Blogger Biggest Loser

Wow, the board is quiet...

2007-02-18T09:47:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the lack of postings lately.

I hope that everyone is sticking with their resolutions, and continuing down the positive path to a new improved you.

On my last weigh-in with my trainer, I was down 7lbs from my last appointment before Thanksgiving. It would have probably been more but I'll admit that not all the choices I made during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays weren't always the best--but I think it's okay to lapse some if you get back on track immediately--and keep up with your exercise.

All told, I'm down about 41 lbs from this time last year. I know it seems like alot (and yes--it IS alot), but this is just the beginning. The road is long, and the path is rocky, but we all can meet our goals if we made a promise to ourselves to stick with our plans.

I hope that if anyone is still reading this that you post and let us know if your successes.

Anybody?

2007-01-15T10:14:00.000-08:00

Is anybody left on this blog or am I talking to myself?

Well, I saw 155 on the scale yesterday morning! I was so excited. That is down 5 lbs in two weeks. Not bad, not bad at all.

Kicking it in the butt!

2006-12-30T17:14:00.000-08:00

For the last week I have decided it is time to kick up my routine. I have done 20 minutes on the treadmill and 30 minutes of aerobics 5 days a week with NO results. I orginally lost 3 pounds but they quickly came right back and held tight.

So this past week I started doing 45 minutes (3 miles) at 5 mph on the treadmill and some ab work after. I hope this is the kick in the butt my fat cells need to see they are no longer welcome.

I have also joined the Discovery Health Challenge. I joined last year too and never looked at the site again. This year I am going to be more active. I can record my exercise everyday and it helps me keep track of my weight. It also gives meal plans based on your goals but I don't have the money to run out and buy all the foods it suggests. I will just try to aim for more fruits and veges on my plate than anything else.

So far this week I am down 4 pounds but I am not going to get my hopes up just yet. It is possible that it will come right back again. I hope not because nothing is more motivating than seeing some results after all my hard work.

How is everyone else coping with the post-holiday pounds?

Happy Holidays, Everyone!

2006-12-21T12:04:00.000-08:00

Twas the night before Christmas
and all round my hips
Were Fannie May candies
that sneaked past my lips.

Fudge brownies were stored
in the freezer with care,
In hopes that my thighs
would forget they were there.

While Mama in her girdle
and I in chin straps
Had just settled down
to sugar-borne naps.

When out in the pantry
there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from my bed
to see what was the matter.

Away to the kitchen
I flew like a flash,
Tore open the icebox then
threw up the sash.

The marshmallow look
of the new-fallen snow
Sent thoughts of a binge
to my body below.

When what to my wandering eyes should appear:
A marzipan Santa with eight chocolate reindeer!

That huge chunk of candy
so luscious and slick
I knew in a second
that I'd wind up sick.

The sweet-coated Santa,
those sugared reindeer,
I closed my eyes tightly
but still I could hear;

On Pritzker, on Stillman, on weak one, on TOPS
A Weight Watcher dropout from sugar detox.

From the top of the scales
to the top of the hall
Now dash away pounds;
now dash away all.

Dressed up in Lane Bryant
from my head to nightdress
My clothes were all bulging
from too much excess.

My droll little mouth
and my round little belly
They shook when I laughed
like a bowl full of jelly.

I spoke not a word
but went straight to my work
Ate all of the candy
then turned with a jerk.

And laying a finger
beside my heartburn
Gave a quick nod
toward the bedroom I turned.

I eased into bed,
to the heavens I cry
If temptation's removed
I'll get thin by and by.

And I mumbled again
as I turned for the night
"In the morning I'll starve...
'til I take that first bite!"

Author Unknown (it came in a forward)

Talking to strangers...

2006-12-04T13:43:00.000-08:00

Saturday, as I walked my 2 miles to the gym, a car pulled over and a lady rolled down her window to say, "I think you're doing a great job". Of course, I was like, "excuse me?" And she proceeded to tell me that she thought it was great that I was motivated to go out and walk and exercise...and then she got out of her car and told me that she had worked from a size 26 to a size 16 through diet and exercise. And honestly, I would kill for her figure. We chatted for a few minutes, and I walked away with a renewed sense of motivation in both my self, and the impact that I have on others.

When people on the street drive by me, they have one of the two following thoughts:

1. OMG, look at that COW!

OR

2. Wow, look at her go. If she can do that, why can't I? (which then motivates them to walk themselves).

The first group, I care nothing about. It's the second group that I hope drive by and become inspired to begin their own walking and exercise regimines.

I just wanted to share this small incident with you, mainly because I was shocked that it actually happened, and two, to hopefully motivate you to keep going. Yes, it's hard t lose weight. But remember--we didn't gain it overnight, and it takes time to remove it. But you have to be dedicated, and you have to want it for yourself. Dont try to lose weight for your high school reunion. Don't do it for your husband or boyfriend. Don't try to do it for your mom or your sister. It's only when you want to do it for You that it begins to work. YOU have to work for you, and not for anyone else--otherwise, your doing it for all the wrong reasons.

Stay on track, keep yourself motivated, and work for the end result that you want--be it health, new clothes, or just a sense of accomplishment.

:)

2006-11-27T14:44:00.000-08:00

From the Biggest Loser Club email. I know it's post Turkey-day, but these rules also apply just as well to Christmas and New Year's celebrations.

I hope that everyone is doing well, has recovered from the excessiveness of the holiday eating spirit, and is looking forward to resuming their diet and exercise plans.

I'll admit that I was no saint during Thanksgiving as I partook of a plentitude of turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie, but I am eager to get back on track and resume my healthy(er) diet, and exercise regimine.

**********************************************************************
Thanksgiving week marks the beginning of a six-week holiday period. Without doubt, it is the most challenging time period of the year. It's dark, cold, and parties are happening all over the place. Most Americans have NO activity/diet program from Thanksgiving until mid-January. Have you thought about how you will approach this year's holidays?

Before you think about the WHOLE holiday, how about thinking of just this week? Check in with yourself and see what you want to accomplish. There are three possible outcomes: (1) Continue Losing Weight, (2) Hold Your Ground, or (3) Lose Ground. What do you want to accomplish?

Here are a few thoughts about each:
(1) Continue Losing Weight You CAN succeed at losing weight during the holidays!! You just have to want it enough and decide that you are willing to take care of yourself in the midst of a lot of temptations. The keys to success are consistent exercise, a specific plan, and ongoing support. You can find the plan and support here at the BL website.

(2) Hold Your Ground (see below)

(3) Lose Ground Most Americans lose ground/gain weight during the week of Thanksgiving. The real problem, however, is that nothing is done about it until mid-January. A key to long-term weight loss success is learning how to RECOVER from lapses. Imagine what might happen if you "blew it" during T-giving holiday, but got right back on your program on Monday. Sure, you might have gained a pound or two of actual weight, but you can lose that weight and some before Christmas week. What does this require? Accepting responsibility and forgiving yourself for not being "perfect." Get back on the horse.

Holding Your Ground

There is nothing wrong with choosing to hold your own during the Thanksgiving Holiday. Truly, it is no easy feat.

Eat a healthy breakfast on Thursday morning.
Go EXERCISE on Thursday before the big meal. This may mean taking a walk with a family member or taking a 30-minute break from the festivities.
Eat a late morning snack. Avoid eating foods that you are preparing. Make sure that you have a small HEALTHY snack 3 hours before you sit down for your big Thanksgiving meal

Not this week...

2006-11-21T10:34:00.000-08:00

I am not getting on the scale this week or next either. There is no point. The turkey, stuffing, potatoes, gravy,pie...

I am falling off the wagon this week. I will get back on after Thanksgiving.

How are the rest of you doing? Ruthie? Any plans for Thanksgiving?

update

2006-11-17T10:30:00.000-08:00

I participated in a biggest loser challenge at my gym. Over the course of eight weeks, I lost 12 pounds and innumerable inches. Sometimes, I think that 12 pounds really isn't that much weight--but to put it into perspective:

1. I imagine 12 lbs of butter taped around my body
2. I imagine carrying 1.5 gallons of water with me everywhere I go (water weights 8lbs per gallon).
3. I imagine a bolwing ball permanently attached to the end of my wrist, without the benefit of the bag to put it in.

Based on my calculations, I have lost about 34 lbs since Thanksgiving 2005. And it's been all on me--diet and exercise. No surgery, no drugs. And I'm determined to continue, because each pound lost is actually a gain of postive returns. In return for that one pound of fat, I gain more self-esteem, looser clothing, and a longer life.

So, just remember, no matter how insignificant you believe your weight loss to be, try to put it into perspective, and it will seem like so much more of an accomplishment.

Good luck, ladies! Hope that everyone has a GREAT holiday--and remember--turkey is a carb free food! :)

Feeling Strong!

2006-11-09T06:51:00.000-08:00

This week is week seven of my re-beginning into exercise. I feel so fit. Yesterday we were doing ab exercises and I was so shocked at how strong I am becoming. Six weeks ago when I started I really struggled with the plank pose. (See picture). My whole body shook while I was holding it. Yesterday I did it and could really feel a difference. I am still shaky but not nearly as much. I am getting stronger!

It is worth the exercise, even if it just makes you healthier instead of skinnier.

How is everyone else doing?

On the way down!

2006-10-29T08:54:00.000-08:00

I got on the scale this morning and was surprised to see my weight is down by 4 pounds! Wooohoooo!

All of my effort in exercise and choosing better foods is paying off. Only 26 more to go! :)

Mexican Deep-Dish Pan Pizza | Rachael Ray Show

2006-10-25T16:13:00.000-07:00

Mexican Deep-Dish Pan Pizza Rachael Ray Show

Feeling good today!

2006-10-25T07:42:00.000-07:00

I got up and did my 20 minutes on the treadmill this morning. Then I did Denise Austin's show. We worked abs today and I feel great! I love when she does abs. I always get that "runner's high" from a good workout.

I hopped on the scale today too (even though I vowed only to weigh on Mondays). I haven't lost any weight since last week but I haven't gained either. I am happy with that, although I would be happier if it had gone down even half a pound. LOL

So two pounds down, but more importantly I can see things going back up and getting flatter. :)

How is everyone else feeling today? Ruthie?

Another update!

2006-10-24T08:22:00.000-07:00

First off, WELCOME BACK Jodi! it's good to see that I'm not posting alone any longer.

Since starting the Biggest Loser challenge at my gym, I lost 6 lbs and 9 inches between September 15 and October 15. This was done with a combination of the following: Tennis, Softball, walking, and weight training. The challenge ends on November 15, so I'm going to keep on working to lose.

Now that softball season is over, and it's going to be too cold to play tennis much longer, I'm going to have to find other ways to keep my body "shocked" into weight loss. Remember--when your routine grows old, your body stops working hard. I've heard that jumping rope is an AWESOME way to lose weight. Has anyone else heard that?

Last night, my favorite aerobics instructor taught a "self-esteem" class which was similar to the "stripper" classes that are so popular. It was alot of fun--and a great change from the much dreaded eliptical. I much prefer to walk the streets of my neighborhood instead of going to the gym, but since it gets so dark now, and the temps are cooler, I'll be working out indoors more frequently again.

How's everyone else doing?

Cyclic Action

2006-10-09T12:59:00.000-07:00

I am back on the bandwagon after a 5 month hiatus. My shoulder pain seemed to get worse and worse and so I quit for fear that I was making it worse doing aerobics every morning. Then in June we ditched our dish t.v. and I lost Denise Austin. Last month I had it turned back on after I stepped on the scale and realized I had gained 20 pounds in those five months. I knew I was getting bigger, I just didn't think it was that bad.

So now I am seeing a PT for my shoulder and I am back at exercising. I am doing 15-20 minutes on my treadmill and then I do Denise Austin's Fit and Lite show every morning. After two weeks of this I am down 1 pound. Not a staggering amont but I will take what I can get.

The only bad thing is I am seriously craving junk food since I started. I haven't been limiting what I have been eating (although I have been trying to make some healthier choices when I shop) but I am always craving Taco John's, Pizza Hut, KFC, etc.

Onward and upward!

Is anyone else still around and exercising?

Liquid lunch and dinner...

2006-08-22T11:42:00.000-07:00

Don't drink down a high-cal meal by mistake.

One involves chewing. The other involves sipping. But when it comes to calories, drinking can be the same as eating.

"Oh sure," you might be saying. "I know that. I've cut out soda, wine, and beer. All I drink now are healthy things like juice."

The problem, unfortunately, is that what appears to be healthy often isn't.

Some of the worst offenders are fruit-flavored drinks. These drinks are only 5 percent fruit juice, and because they're full of sugar, a 20-ounce bottle packs 300 or more calories (as much as a cream-filled doughnut)!

Another no-no? Nutritional energy drinks. Your body derives energy from calories, so (surprise!) that's what these shakes deliver: 240 extra calories a day, enough to make you gain a half-pound per week. Instead take a daily multivitamin to get the vitamins without the spare tire.

Remember to stick with what's real. A glass of 100 percent juice, skim milk, herbal tea or (best of all) good, clean, calorie-free water. Flavor it with a little sugar-free drink mix, if you need something sweet.

(Derrived from Email sent to me by the Biggest Loser Club)

progress report...

2006-08-11T13:36:00.000-07:00

I lost 4.6 lbs and 4.8 percent body fat between June 22 and August 10. Yay me! :)

Tips for Treadmill Workouts...

2006-07-25T08:21:00.000-07:00

It seems to me that most of the BBL participants utilize a treadmill for exercise purposes. For this reason, I have decided to make this posting about ways to make the most of your workout.

A treadmill is a great way to exercise. Whether in the gym or at home, the treadmill allows a workout without the constraints placed on outdoor walking by time and weather conditions. Walking is the most natural form of exerise, and requires no special skills or equipment (except for a treadmill in this case).

Weight loss from a treadmill tends to be successfull, as long as you don't fall into the 'ho-hum, I'm doing this but I don't like it' school of thought. Like all exercise programs, to be successfull, you need to be committed to a program, and follow through with it on a regular basis. Just be consistent and work within your fat burning target range for 45 minutes or more per session at least 5 to 6 days per week. Don't panic, though, if this is out of your range. Gradually work your way up to the target by increasing both speed and time in weekly increments until you reach the target area.

However, exercise alone may not be enough to show significant weight loss. If you are looking to shed unwanted pounds, implement a treadmill workout routine along with a sensible, healthy diet. Although regular exercise will increase your metabolism and muscle mass, which in turn, burns more calories.

Here are some important tips to remember when walking:

Maintain a proper posture, keep you head up, relax your neck and look straight ahead.
Let your arms swing naturally at your side and loosely cup your hands.
Hold your tummy in and keep your hips relaxed and loose.
Take steps that are comfortable for you, not too short or too long.
Concentrate on your breathing. Try to breathe normally, taking in deep, smooth breaths.

A few good tips to help break the boredom while exercising on the treadmill are:

Listen to up beat music, books on tape or teaching tapes.
Read a book or magazine.
Chat with a friend on the treadmill next to you.
Watch yourself in the mirror to work on your posture and walking technique.
Watch your favorite talk show or sitcom.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gary_Gresham

Hi, all!

2006-07-24T05:59:00.000-07:00

I'm new here. My name is Jana, and my goal is to lose 60 pounds. So far, I've lost about 12 with just diet. I'm feeling pretty good about that, but I know I need to add exercise to really start taking the pounds off. Is it just me or do you hate sweating in the summer time? I'm already hot - do I really want to get on the treadmill?

Anyway, I thought being part of this group would be helpful in moving toward my goal. So hi!

Since noone is posting...

2006-07-18T11:15:00.000-07:00

I'm going to try to post health facts that for those of you that are still reading.

I know that with summer, everyone tends to lose sight of their weightloss and fitness goals.

Don't forget that small changes to your diet and exercise routine can help you maintain progress made, or help to jump-start your body for future loss.

Today's lecture is brought to you by the letter "D". (that's for Vitamin D).

Some of you may be asking, "What does Vitamin D do for me?". Let's find out!

Vitamin D helps to maintain normal levels of phosporus and calcium in your blood. It also adis in the absorption of calcium. Without vitamin D, bones can become thin, brittle, soft, or misshapen. Vitamin D prevents rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults -- skeletal diseases that result in defects that weaken bones.

Wondering how to get your daily dose of Vitamin D? It's easy!

Food Sources:
Many foods, including milk, are fortified with Vitamin D. For example, one cup of milk supplied about 1/4 of the estimated daily allotment for the average adult. One cup of vitamin D fortified milk supplies about one-fourth of the estimated daily need for this vitamin for adults. Although milk is fortified with vitamin D, dairy products made from milk such as cheese, yogurt, and ice cream are generally not fortified with vitamin D.

Only a few foods naturally contain significant amounts of vitamin D, including Salmon, Mackerel, Sardines, Liver, and Eggs.

Exposure to Sunlight:
Exposure to sunlight is an important source of vitamin D. Ultraviolet (UV) rays from sunlight trigger vitamin D synthesis in the skin. Sunscreens with a sun protection factor of 8 or greater will block UV rays that produce vitamin D, but it is still important to routinely use sunscreen whenever sun exposure is longer than 10 to 15 minutes. It is especially important for individuals with limited sun exposure to include good sources of vitamin D in their diet.

Warnings:
There is a high health risk associated with consuming too much vitamin D. Vitamin D toxicity can cause nausea, vomiting, poor appetite, constipation, weakness, and weight loss. It can also raise blood levels of calcium, causing mental status changes such as confusion. High blood levels of calcium also can cause heart rhythm abnormalities. Calcinosis, the deposition of calcium and phosphate in soft tissues like the kidney can be caused by vitamin D toxicity.
Consuming too much vitamin D through diet alone is not likely unless you routinely consume large amounts of cod liver oil. It is much more likely to occur from high intakes of vitamin D in supplements. The Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine considers an intake of 1,000 IU for infants up to 12 months of age and 2,000 IU for children, adults, pregnant, and lactating women to be the tolerable upper intake level. Daily intake above this level increases the risk of adverse health effects and is not advised.

(information retrieved from Healthlink )

Sorry Ruthie!

2006-06-20T06:33:00.000-07:00

Hey all, (particularly Ruthie) sorry for being MIA I was out of the country for a month and they charge for internet so I was being very spare with my internet time. But I am alive and well. As far as weight loss I am losing but at snail speed. Since I began trying in January six months ago I lost a grand total of TEN pounds. I am happy I lost ten pounds but at the same time why is it so slow. I am a bit frustrated about that. Oh well. Anyways Ruthie brings up a good point, where is everybody? Hope y'all are doing well..

Hello?!?

2006-06-20T06:23:00.000-07:00

Where is everybody????

MIA but back...

2006-06-04T13:08:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,

I am SO sorry that I've been MIA. I can't believe that its already June. I just don't know where the time has gone. I have to admit that I haven't been very good about the working out/food. I just don't seem to be motivated. Though I am working out with my trainer 3 times a week.

I am going to make an effort to be around more. HI JANA! Welcome.

updating

2006-06-01T12:32:00.000-07:00

The board is looking a bit quiet lately. I lost 4lbs during the spring training challenge at my gym.

Also, we need to welcome a new member: Jana. She has been given access to update, and will be added to the member list as soon as I figure out how to do it. :)

Who out there is still reading/posting?

Sorry I've been MIA lately...

2006-05-12T06:10:00.000-07:00

I started the "spring training" regimine at my gym on May 1. Premise is, you weigh in and measure and then work out 14 times by May 28. You get weighed and measured again, and a free t-shirt for participating. I've gotten 6 workouts in to date, and will have 7 after Saturday.

Unfortunately, increased stress and consumption of fast food has wreaked havoc on aspects of my health that were considered excellent before. For example, my total cholesterol went from 174 to 225 in 6 months. Although my good cholesterol is still excellent, my bad cholesterol isn't. Not good. And my blood sugar is out of whack, too. My doc told me that elevated cholesterol has a direct impact on your blood sugar. These are two things I'm working on now to get under control. Easier said than done--but starting by cutting out ALL fast food. Since I never fry things at home, I'm positive that this is where the majority of my problems are stemming from. I'll keep you guys informed if it's a success.

My company is particiapting with Anthem Blue Cross in the Walking Works program. Essentially, self-selected teams work together in a friendly competition to see who can walk the most steps in 6 weeks. We are all given a step pedometer, and report to our team leaders every Wednesday (beginning next week). Although I am not on a team with my department, we have chosen to initiate one diet change a week for each of the six weeks of the program. Our first diet change is to eliminate french fries (and other deep fried foods). I'm also the team-leader for my team, the aptly named "Sweaty Betty's". :)

Hopefully, this program combined with my continued gym visits will be helpfull to jump starting my weight-loss again. Of course, this same challenge can be extended to the BBL participants. If anyone wants to participate, we can pick a starting date and a check in date, and everyone can post their progress. Let me know if anyone is interested!

Hope that everyone out there is still doing good and sticking to their healthy choices!

I know, I know, I'm a slacker.

2006-05-02T18:24:00.000-07:00

I went back to work full time March 6th. I had a full year off with my baby, and it was great. Going back to work was stressful, and I felt sorry for myself. The week before I went back, I managed to go from 161 pounds to 166 pounds. In days. I ate like a piglet. Luckily, I had to work super hard at work the week I went back and managed to get down to 157. I'm down to 154, and have been hovering for about a month. I haven't been doing much of anything to really try to lose right now. I know that if I actually put forth the effort, I might get rid of a few more pounds.

I still have some serious saggy mommy belly though. Like, serious. Anyone have any suggestions I might try to atleast minimize the hanging over the pants? *L* Thanks guys. (PS I know that crunches are a good idea, so maybe I'll start doing those tomorrow.)

Ciao for now ladies.

At first I was happy about this....

2006-05-02T09:19:00.000-07:00

So I weighed and I've lost EIGHT pounds. Yay. 22 pounds more to go. But then I sobered up on the joy when I looked and April 9 I lost 6. So its been practically a month and I have two meager pounds to show for it. Oh well. Better than nothing.

Its a struggle, but I'm trying...

2006-04-25T06:19:00.000-07:00

to get back into the gym routine.

I did an aerobics class last night for the first time since before last Thanksgiving. It was hard--I sweated alot--I thought I would die a few times (squats are the KILLER), but I survived. I sweated out alot of pent up stress and frustration. I slept like a baby.

My gym is starting "spring training" this week. I get weighed and measured on Friday, and then I have to work out 14 times during the following the next 28 days to earn the stars to get my t-shirt prize.

Wish me luck to keep up with this, inspite of the additional stress I'll be enduring the next few weeks.

To everyone else: Great job on keeping true to your diet and exercise plans. You are all beautiful! :)

Weighing in

2006-04-21T17:47:00.000-07:00

Today when I stepped on the scales I was happy to see that I have now lost 50 pounds since the first of the year. When I think of it in terms of bags of sugar or gallons of milk or even the fact that this is more than my 7 year old son weighs, I am amazed. I can't imagine carrying Wesley around all day, but that is what I was doing basically.

Speaking of cravings...***

2006-04-19T11:48:00.000-07:00

I'm at the aclu as I eat my lunch (salad- AGAIN) and the lady down the hall brought chocolate pound cake for everyone. GRRRR. I am writing in here to remind myself that its just not worth it. It will taste good now but tomorrow I will feel worse about it. I've worked too hard these past three weeks, I've sacrificed too many things I enjoy to waste it now.

****three hours later: I walked all the way up to the TCBY stand and this is my thought process which helepd me walk away. I thought of how it would taste. How my craving would be gone. I thought of the cup which would inevitably grow empty. I thought of the bread I passed up at the Turkish restaurant, and the baklava I didnt partake of. I thought o the running as I was out of breath and though it was hard as hell I didn't give in and I walked away, got my low carb protein bar for dinner and went to class. It was hard. But hopefully it makes me stronger****

Got Craving?

2006-04-19T10:35:00.000-07:00

Is it just me or when I'm PMS'ing I want to eat. It's like an almost uncontrollable urge like my body and mind are seperate and my body looks at raisonettes, and rice, and pasta and just wants to pounce and pulverise! WHY? I kicked my cravings about two weeks ago but today I'm getting them and yetserday also. Yesterday instead of the baked chicken (or rather, in addition) I had some of the chicken leu mein pasta i made for Kashif. :(. I'm trying not to beat myself up about it, and I did run 4 miles afterwards... I normally just run 2. But serioulsy is it everyone or just me who has uncontrollable food cravings when they're PMS'ing?

Phase II of South Beach

2006-04-13T14:59:00.000-07:00

Two weeks later I stepped on the scale and lost 7.5 pounds on South Beach. I know it's not much and I still have 22.5 more to go but this is the first time in years that I saw the scale take me down more than just down two pounds and then up two pounds again. Bigger than the weight loss is the fact that I learned that I can do it. If you were reading my postings from a few months ago I explicitly stated that I doubt I'd lose any since years of trying left me exhausted and with little faith in myself. These past two weeks I was freed from food controlling me, I fought through the cravings and I came out of it. It's funny because my reward for completing two successful weeks was going to be a nice frozen yogurt from TCBY today the end of my two weeks. Today came, and I dont want it! I seriously just dont want it. My cravings have gone away, my wooziness for being without sugar are gone. It's gone. I feel like an alcoholic finally recovering. I still have 22 more pounds to go and I'm not sure now that phase I is over what exactly I do now.... guess I'll be hitting the bookstore tonight... but yeah finally some changes :)

I'm a loser

2006-04-13T08:15:00.000-07:00

in a bad way.

Sorry I haven't been around. I'm not in a good place eating/exercise wise.

I'm proud of the rest of you.

Seacrest out. ;)

what's up everybody?

2006-04-09T20:46:00.000-07:00

i'm still hanging on with nutrisystem though i have started adapting alot of my own meals based on their food and guidelines, calorie content, etc. just for the variety really. i'm making progress on the the treadmill- i have actually started running about half of the time now and it's paying off. i really don't need to lose any weight in my legs, but it has firmed them up considerably. so i would say now i have been on this for 3 months total and have exercised about 2/3 of that time bc i had the falling down the stairs thing. i have lost over 40 pounds now and could have lost even more if i had been exercising the whole time. now that my ankle is back to 100% and the weather is getting warmer i am about to kick it up a notch and add a weight arm workout and some biking too.

i do give in occasionally and have like a piece of cake at a bday party etc., but i don't feel guilty- i just try harder the next day. i have to keep reminding myself not to be so hard on myself and that there is progress being made. today i ate a sick quantity of m&m's that the easter bunny was supposed to deliver. yikes!

another plus i would say is that people are starting to notice and make positive comments about the weight loss too. finally!

i definitely continue to recommend nutrisystem if u can afford it. i have started spacing out my shipments to save money and it's working great.

-k8

Update

2006-04-09T08:36:00.000-07:00

Update, so nothing was working. Sparkspeople wasn't helping. Just plain old watching it wasn't working. Weight watchers wasn't working. Finally about 1.5 weeks ago I was sharing my frustration with the hubbz and he suggested I try South Beach. I was very skeptical because I have tried it in the past and I can't really handle being without sugar like that but I thought its worth trying. So in 10 days I have lost SIX pounds. Wow. The thing I appreciate the most is getting rid of the sugar itch. I really don't have shakes anymore for sugar or anyting like that. I admit I do have a teaspoon in the morning in my tea but that's it. The key is to keep losing though and to not quickly gain it back once I get off the intense phase.

I also decided to along with a few of my classmates run for the Brast Cancer race for the cure 5K which is motivating me to run every day for reasons other than a slimmer waistline. That is really helping the motivation of working out. To have an end result to shoot for.

So finally something good to share :)

Nothing

2006-04-07T14:10:00.000-07:00

I have gained 5-7 pounds since getting my treadmill. I am not seeing any results. My husband is and has apparently mentioned it to his sister. At least I have that to pull motivation from eh?

How frustrated I am right now!

checking in...

2006-04-03T11:23:00.000-07:00

As of March 29, down 2.5% body fat from February 4, though I didn't lose any poundage. Holding off on measures until next check in on April 24. Happy to be maintaining--which is better than gaining.

Played tennis yesterday--and I hurt. My back from the waist to the shoulders, and the fronts of my thighs are sore. I'm also sunburned. Had alot of fun, and hope to do it again. It was a great workout. Hoping this will serve to kick me off of this plateau I've been riding on for while.

Weighing In

2006-03-25T04:18:00.000-08:00

Weighed 36.5 pounds less today than I did on January 7th.
Feeling good - feeling strong.

2006-03-22T18:06:00.000-08:00

Hola. Long time no post. To update I havent lost much since my initial two pound loss which is to say I've only lost 2 pounds total since January. On the bright side I've found a new love for working out and hopefully over time this will pay off- whatever!

Anyways I found this very interesting article on someone's blog called "False Advertising"about women who are slim when they get married and gain weight subsequently. This woman defends the men who complain by saying the wife "falsely advertised". Interesting and thought you all would have some strong views one way or the other on it.

2006-03-17T03:21:00.000-08:00

Long time no post. But I do have my awesome treadmill now and I am proud to say that I have been on it EVERY STINKIN DAY except yesterday when I was barfing. I couldn't do it without my ipod. I really have to focus on the music and not the fact that my legs are burning.
Weight loss wise, I am kind of at a stand still since I started exercising, which sounds weird. I look like I've lost more and I can tell a major difference with my clothes but the scale doesn't show it. So right now I'm stuck at around -30 which always happens when I'm trying to lose weight.

-k8

2006-03-16T19:10:00.000-08:00

even though I have a tummy bug...

2006-03-16T07:09:00.000-08:00

i'm still trying to be healthy (except for my burger king indiscretions on tuesday night).

I went to the gym monday night after work and did weights and cardio, was kind of sick tuesday, ate BK on tuesday night b/c i wanted hot salty fries, sick still on wednesday but went to the gym and did 3.96 miles in 45 minutes on the eliptical (at level 4). I was feeling pretty good last night, ate homemade mac and cheese, hoping it would settle my tummy (and it did). I woke up feeling pretty good this morning, then got sick when I got to work. I'm holding out as long as I can today. I'm sipping regular pepsi (the machine was out of coke classic) and nibbling on pnut butter crackers, and it seems to be helping.

I would much rather have a stomach flu than the regular flu anyday (I can't afford to take time off work for being sick, even with my sick days). Refer to Tee to read about how the flu really is. She's recovering from it now.

Anyways, I have a trainer appt. on the 29th. I don't anticipate seeing any loss, but as long as there's no gain, I'll be happy.

Hope everyone out there is hanging in there and being healthy.

The Weekend Report -- which I just posted on the wrong blog - sorry girls.

2006-03-12T21:20:00.000-08:00

Well the weekend has been filled with rain,

fun, rain, a Duke game Friday which they won,

rain, a Duke game Saturday, which they won, church, family, friends, Wesley's 7th birthday party, a Duke game Sunday, which they won for the ACC championship,

rain, and did I mention..... rain?

I think we have hit the 6 inches of rain mark in the last 48 hours. Wesley had the birthday presents of his dreams today. Everything he got was Nascar and Jeff Gordon. He LOVES Jeff Gordon. He has never even watched 5 minutes of a Nascar race.

It was a great weekend, culminating with Ryan biting into a glow bracelet after he was in bed tonight and having all the glowing stuff squirt into his mouth. Jacob - thinking quickly - yelled at him to spit it out - so Ryan did. All over the bedroom, himself, the floor. I checked the package while Andi searched the internet, and we quickly determined it was non-toxic. And I will say, it was fairly simple to clean up. It's not as if you can't see the stuff. Just wipe up the glowing spots. Finish up the weekend by establishing the "no glow bracelets in bed" rule.

How did that happen

2006-03-10T13:28:00.000-08:00

I have made a point to not weigh myself since the first of the year. I indulged a little too much on certain peanut butter balls and other goodies I made.

I have been working out hard, but still felt like a big fat sow. Well today I decided I better get over my fear of the scale so I know exactly what I am dealing with...

Well I figured I gained a good ten pounds since January. Well I weighed 20 pounds less than I thought I would weigh and ten pounds less than when I weighed myself last. How did that happen?

I am so glad I got on the scale, because now I see my workouts are truly paying off...

Why are we so afraid of a scale?...They don't bite...Well, I think some might.

But I was so relieved to see I had not gained anything , but had lost...

Ok..I had to tell someone...Sorry:)

Bossy

Struggle

2006-03-10T12:54:00.000-08:00

I'm a people pleaser by nature so it's difficult for me to post this.

I already posted on my blog about a week ago saying that I was going to post when I wanted and read what/when I wanted and that I hope everyone understood. That was me taking care of myself. I have to take care of myself again.

I feel an immense amount of obligation to do my best at getting healthy for all of you, but have been unable to do so. If that isn't the greatest example of what a strong hold food has on me, I don't know what is.

Despite my Mom's being diagnosed with diabetes, and as a result losing nearly 50 lbs (and still going), despite my little sister being diagnosed as pre-diabetes, despite how much I want do this not only for myself, my husband, my children, and all of you - I have been failing - and it's discouraging.

I feel like a hypocrite telling all of you "Great job! Keep it up!", when I am still in the vicious cycle of:

Day 1: Excite/Determination
Day 2: Depression
Day 3: Binge
Day 4: Guilt/Self-Loathing
Day 5: I need to get back on the wagon

And this repeats itself weekly. Obviously something isn't working right.

I wish I had fantastic results for you all. Ruthie (my partner) and I Email every single day and we try so hard. Over the years I have made so many positive and healthy changes.

Switching from white bread to wheat bread to whole grain.
Switching from whole milk to 2% to 1%
Switching from regular soda to diet
Switching from dark meat to white meat
Switching from butter to butter spray
Switching from full fat mayo to light, (same with salad dressing)
Switching from vegetable oil to canola or "spray"
Buying more organic, whole grain, low sugar foods in nearly every food I buy from ice cream to pasta and cereal
Buying and eating more fruits and vegetables (that accounts for nearly half my grocery purchases and used to be like 10%)

... I'm proud of those changes and maybe they have kept me from becomming any bigger than I am - but it's still not enough.

I hope I can get it together one of these days - but I really am so proud of you who have finally broken through.

Walking video

2006-03-09T14:10:00.000-08:00

I've been doing the Walk Away the Pounds 4 mile video. This is a great video - not too intense, but in an hours time, you've walked 4 miles, and got in some upper body toning too. You can get it at Wal Mart for about 10 bucks. There are one mile, 2, 3 and 4, but they are all the same price, so get the 4 and it tells you at each mile marker, so you can quit if you want.

Highly recommend it.

been a while

2006-03-09T13:12:00.000-08:00

Its been a while since I posted here..shame on me..

ok I have been working out like mad...40 minutes a day on the treadmill 6 days a week, then when the baby is nappping I do one of my dvd work out videos...then my free weights daily..I have had to up my weight, becuase it was getting too easy, so I am hoping I get better resluts..

I have not weighed myslef for a while..I am way too scared too...isnt that so stupid..

I hope everyone is doing well...keep up all your good work;)

Bossy

Weighing In

2006-03-08T18:58:00.000-08:00

down 28 pounds
Hang in there everybody!

2006-03-08T18:49:00.000-08:00

Checking In...

2006-03-07T08:19:00.000-08:00

I've been exercising consistently now for three weeks 30-60 minutes 5-6 days a week.

I've been eating between 1200-1550 calories everyday for three weeks with only two times going over my limit.

I've lost absolutely no weight.

Do you think 1200-1550 is too high a range to lose anything? The diet also allows any food so long as you stay in your range though ofcourse they encourage healthy food.

I'm just confused. I guess on the bright side I can't gain weight doing all this.

Still going....

2006-03-04T20:10:00.000-08:00

I have gotten on my treadmill everyday and am finding it to be easier and easier. I have four pre-programmed runs on my treadmill. They get harder from 1 to 4. I usually do 2 because it varies running and walking but sometimes for variety I will do 1 or 3. I tried 4 the other day and made it halfway through and thought for sure I was going to die so I walked te remaining 15 minutes at a high speed. I will try that one again in the future.

I have not lost any weight yet, not that I really expect to because I never do, but I have seen much improvement in my flabby tummy and hips. I will keep it up so I can have that sexy behind and tummy I can see so clearly in my imagination.

Last night...

2006-03-03T09:43:00.000-08:00

I went to the gym is what is surely 3 weeks. I am proud of myself for sucking up my fear/doubt/insecurity (which oddly enough, has just developed in the past 3 weeks or so).

I lifted weights, and I ran on the eliptical. Because of not going, I reduced my weights by 2.5 lbs on each arm, and by 5lbs on each leg. On the elipitical, I began conversing with the woman on the machine next to me. For the entire 30 mins I was on there, I didn't look at my display. When the 2 minute cool down beep occured, I checked my progress--I had done 3.06 miles in 28 minutes. by the end of the cooldown, I had hit 3.11 miles in 30 minutes. I think that this is my BEST TIME EVER on the machine for distance in 30 minutes. For not having worked out for 3 weeks, I think it rocked.

I was feeling pretty good last night, I ate healthy, took a nice long shower, slept good. Today started okay--no residual effects, woke up, work on time, had a bagel (okay, that was bad). As the morning has progressed, I've noticed that my arms are slowly beginning to stiffen. By the end of the day, will I be frozen into an immobile lump?

Anyways, I do feel better today than I have felt in a while. I made an appointment for a physical, but the earliest I could get in was May 5! At least I have two months to get back into reasonable health before I see her. I only wish it could have been earlier.

I hope that everyone has a terrific weekend. Aisha, Perri, Tee, and everyone else--you guys are doing GREAT JOBS! I think I'm back on the wagon today, and I plan to stay there. Thanks again for all of your support!

~ruthie

A calorie counter

2006-03-01T09:26:00.000-08:00

I was beginning to trust sparkspeople as I've gained weight instead of lost so checked to see if their calorie counter was right and came across this: http://www.caloriecontrol.org/calcalcs.html you can type in your current weight and see how many calories you are eating to maintain that and then type in your goal weight and see how much that requires.

I'm craving cookies and chocolate. I'm hoping that It's that time of the month which would explain all of this.

Weighing in

2006-02-28T09:21:00.000-08:00

Down 25 pounds
1/4 of my goal has been met.
Feeling good.

Annoyed

2006-02-28T07:16:00.000-08:00

I have been doing sparkspeople.com for about two weeks now and except for one day I've stayed in my 1200-1550 calorie range. The result? I GAINED two pounds. What???

To my fellow BBL members...

2006-02-24T13:55:00.000-08:00

Thank you so much for your support and encourging words.

You make me want to cry.

I am not giving up entirely.

I am in the midst of a personal struggle that encompasses numerous outside factors.

I will be strong, and I will do my best to stay on track.

Thank you again for your kindness. God bless.

Ruthie and all else struggling TRY SPARKPEOPLE

2006-02-24T06:08:00.000-08:00

I forgot who recommended it but thank you a million times over sparkspeople is really helping me. The key is that I can log my weight loss and I can keep a food journal which is completely simple. They have all the foods in there, you just search click and add, it tells you how much fat you have left, how many calories you have left. It also will let you pick when you want to lose the weight by, etc an how many pounds you need to lose to get there. This gave me hope that indeed I could do it. It's just like the weight watchers point system for me because it tells me when to stop. It also allows for you to eat something fattening like a small cake if you have enough calories/fat/carb to allow it. I just have to say it's really cool and Ruthie before you decide to throw in the towel. Try it.

To Ruthie ~~~~

2006-02-23T19:38:00.000-08:00

ruthie - If I can do this at my age after 20 years of saying I was going to - then YOU CAN DO IT TOO.

Weighing in

2006-02-23T05:20:00.000-08:00

23.5 pounds lost since January 1
76.5 pounds to go
Almost 1/4 of the way there!

Let's go girls!!!!!!

Weight Watchers?

2006-02-21T15:12:00.000-08:00

I did weight watchers informally about five years ago. My school started it and I listened in.. my mom also joined and she shared what she learned. I lost 30 pounds. So my question is has anyone joined it and if so what do they think the meetings had to play as a factor in their weight loss? I feel like since I know the philosophy of WW I can just lose it without it just incorporating the ideas. But Just curious what you all know.

Just call me Fatty McButterball!

2006-02-21T13:22:00.000-08:00

I'm a slacker. I'm a slug. I'm a huge slacker hermit slug.

I feel no desire to sweat. When I do go to the gym, I have to fight myself the entire trip. It's a struggle with myself to put on my gym clothes. Then, the whole 2 mile trip I try to convince myself that I want to be ANYWHERE but there. I pull into the parking lot, and STILL I'm fighting with myself to take the keys out of the ignition and walk into the building instead of throwing the car in reverse and pealing out of there like some obscure Dukes of Hazard reference. When I drive by Taco Bell, I have to look straight ahead and not to the left or the right, or else I'll find myself pulling into the drive through.

Foodwise, I discovered Jennie-O premade turkey burger patties. It's a no-think meal. Four minutes on the George Foreman grill, and I'm good to go, at least for protien. I have also discovered whole wheat tortillas, and it's been WEEKS since I've even bought a loaf of bread (and that was the 9 grain twigs and nuts kind of bread anyways). There's been a serious lack of veggies in my diet lately. Besides various forms of turkey (ground, patty, sausage) and the ham and swiss I bring in my lunch, I don't know what I've been eating. Weird. I guess cereal and mini-bagels (my one bread concession), and mozzerela string cheese sticks.

Anyways fellow bloggers, I'm sorry I have failed you. I hope one day to return to my former ways, become dedicated to the gym again, and once again be in your good graces.

finally back...

2006-02-19T20:18:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,

1) I am back in town after being out of town for a week. I lost no weight but I lost 2"'s around my body so I am pleased with that.

2) I've blown this weekend food wise

3) I got some great new work out dvd's that I can't wait to try

4) yes I like the whole check in thing. I do it with Jenny Craig on Tuesdays but having it on a Sunday would be cool as it would help keep me motivated during the weekends.

5) I am going to start setting weekly exercise goals for myself because I feel that I'm not working out hard enough.

Not Motivated

2006-02-19T12:01:00.000-08:00

I think I need a foot up my butt. I can't seem to get it into gear lately. I seem to be posting the same stuff week after week... I have been around 160 for MONTHS. I go back to work in 2 weeks. *2* weeks. I'm *going* to make working out a part of my daily routine, so that I don't have to change it up later. It will just be a part of it. I plan on joining Curves and I think that I will this Tuesday, just so that it's done and I have no excuses.

I've eaten some junk this weekend, but not enough to worry too much about, my main problem is the not losing. Just sitting up here on my plateau, all by myself.

Have a good week gals.

PS Aisha, sounds like a good idea to me.

Throwing out an idea

2006-02-19T10:54:00.000-08:00

I was thinking about weight watchers and how they do a lot of what we do, share our grievances and our losses and our victories with one another for support. One thing Weight Watchers does is they do a weigh in every week updating everyone on their weight. I was wondering if anyone would be interested in incorporating that on this blog? We could pick a date like Sunday and all check in and say how much we lost? That way it would give us some motivation like it does to the Weight Watcher members? Just an idea.

I'm at my mother in laws house and the woman can cook, Ill give her that. I've been good. I went to a party last night and they had baklava and chocolate cake but I refrained and had tea and some fruit. My mother in law is well aware of my sweet tooth and has mentioned it at least three times today "y-y-y-ou didn't touch any of the sweets!!!" ha :) That's kinda nice to shock her like this. I do admit here though, that as the evening wore on and the boredom of the party being to weigh on me like a big heavy box full of books... I did have two bites worth of cake. But considering what I'd normally do. Its better though I wish I hant touched it at all. We came home and mye and hubby were hanging out and he made himself a whole new plate of food. Normally I'd have gotten some too but I didn't and it hurt like hell at the time because everything in me wanted to eat too. But he said whe you wake up you'll be glad you didnt. He's right.. Weight loss aint easy but hopefully we'll all makei t :)

Missing - One Chin

2006-02-18T11:05:00.000-08:00

if found - just leave it there.

Down 20.5 pounds since January 1
Only 79.5 to go!

Yay

2006-02-16T07:39:00.000-08:00

Well it's my one week weigh in and I lost 2 pounds. Yay. I'm pretty impressed because though I was really really good all week, Valentines day... ahem... I had steak.. which I guess is good as far as carbs go, but I also shared a chocolate cake. I don't regret it. That cake.. wow. It was the sort of cake that you can just remember and smile. If you're ever near a Morton's try their hot chocolate cake. Trust me. That good. But anyways, I didnt expect to lose anything because of that day of indiscretion.... so though I didnt lose 4.5 pounds in a week like I wanted. 2 pounds is a healthy amount for a week.

More than the weight of 2 pounds I'm happy about the change in my mental attitude. Normally I'd say "I had cake so I'll eat the rest of the night away" The old Aisha would have gone to Target for the 75% of chocolate the next day and then eaten half the bag in a sickening rush an tried to start new on Sunday. But this time I didnt. I knew I'd be eating out so I ate very little until Dinner. The next day again I also ate very little and I also worked out to balance out the dinner. I'm so glad I didn't run off to Target for the chocolate. Trust me... its still tempting me :)

You know what helps is to believe that I *can* do it. It helps me delay my gratification if I know that if I work hard I truly will reach the goal.

Also in other news... my fat jeans... they got a rip right around the knees. but not in a cool way. in a way they will have to be discarded. Sad news is those are the only jeans I fit into right now as I refused to buy more jeans at my current weight. *sigh* so if you see someone on a picnic with black pants and cardigan. That's me. Girl with no more fat jeans. :(

Liquid Cancer

2006-02-13T11:25:00.000-08:00

That's what aspartame is aparently. The rumors have swirled for years but new evidence leaves little doubt.

Do you know how many gallons of Crystal Light I drink each week? I pride myself on choosing diet sodas over regular. Even worse, do you know how much Crystal Light my children drink?! This is so worrying to me.

For a few years I have been giving them Crystal Lite instead of juice. Everything I was reading said that juice is leading to childhood obseity and tooth decay. I thought I was being a good Mom. I worried a little that it's not "natural", but would it be available on shelves in every grocery store if it was poisonous? ... Too bad, the answer is "Yes".

Some switched to Splenda gladly as soon as it came out - and I admit I use Splenda as well. Why do we think that in 10 years we won't find out something horrible about it too?

I'm feeling kind of down. I really depend on artifical sweetners and now I'm worrying about

#1 What damage I've done to my family.
#2 What the heck I'm going to drink the rest of my life.

And when I'm not feeling down about it, I'm feeling angry. It seems the makers of aspartame knew there was a cancer connection long ago. It should have been pulled, but just like in so many other cases, their money won the desire of their hearts over the public's health and well being.

I hope there will be a class action lawsuit. If so, I'm in.

Soup from Heaven

2006-02-12T13:55:00.000-08:00

This is the bestest soup in the world. It doesn't look exciting on this recipe card but it's out of this world. My Mom came to my house the other day with a little container. She said, "This is bean and tomato soup. It's your Grandma's recipe. It is really tasty and healthy." I didn't look at it twice. I told her to just put it in the fridge.

When lunch approached the next day I opened the fridge door and stood there. Nothing much to eat. I grabbed the container of soup and heated it up in the microwave. After my first bite I scraped the insides of that container until there was nothing left. Then I E-mailed my Mom begging for the recipe. Here it is.

tsk tsk Slacker

2006-02-12T11:44:00.000-08:00

Yeah, where have I been? Two weeks. No excuses. I've been a naughty girl. I've been eating horribly. Not exercising. Total SLACKER. So instead of turning to my girls for support, I hide from you. Good job on me, eh? Maybe if they don't hear from me they won't *know* I'm being a bad girl. *grrr*

Anyway, feeling the crunch of going back to work, I'm getting a little sad, and therefore self medicating. with food. Still better food than cigarettes. *sighs*

I will do my best to post this week.

No pounds lost off of the original weight, but gained and then lost again.

*sighs*

See ya's soon.

I have to tell someone.

2006-02-12T07:49:00.000-08:00

caution: whining ahead

This whole episode has really been depressing me. I am right at the threshold of so many things- exercising, getting my bedroom finished, getting my life in general together- and now I cannot do any of this.

I have severe carpal tunnel that has flared up from gripping the crutches and walker that I have been using and I can't even write w my right hand. Plus I damaged my back when I was pregnant on bedrest for those months and this has made that condition start flaring up again as well.

Will I ever feel better? I feel like an old woman at 33 years of age.

Yes, I want cheese with my whine.

xok8

Here I come!

2006-02-11T16:27:00.000-08:00

Okay so I know I have been nonexistent in my posts here at the biggest loser but today I am on the wagon.... or treadmill.

I bought mine today and after assembling the thing I got on and did a 30 minute program of ups and downs and fast and slow. It was hard but a blast at the same time. I burned 269 calories and went 1.7 miles. How is that for a first go?

I am starting this at 150 pounds (give or take a few depending on what time of day I weigh myself). I want to lose about 15-20 pounds.

Someone make sure I do this everyday would ya? ;)

Answering Aisha...

2006-02-10T15:10:00.000-08:00

This was too much to be simply a comment.

I took awhile to think about my response because I wanted to come up with the perfect answer. One that would solve all your problems - but that answer doesn't exist.

You seem to be talking about a lack of "will power". Even though you know it's wrong, and you know why you're doing it - you do it anyway. Some would say "you just need more will power." (As if you can buy it at a store!)

I say there's a better answer. An answer which will actually help you.

When it comes to this subject, I believe what Dr. Phil has to say about it 100% ... And here it is:

Dr. Phil's Ultimate Weight Solution
How It Works
"You no longer have to rely on willpower," writes Dr. Phil. "It simply doesn't work. Willpower is unreliable emotional fuel that drives you when you are excited, motivated, or energized. But you know as well as I do that no one stays fired up continuously. The seven keys to permanent weight loss do not depend on willpower for success."
Programming yourself for success is the key. "Programming involves making small, deliberate modifications in the way you live your life, and it has everything to do with developing a lifestyle that creates healthier behavior," he explains.
The seven steps to weight loss freedom:
1. Right Thinking: Get rid of self-defeating thought patterns, believe that you will succeed, and you will have mastered the first key necessary to overcoming your struggles with your weight.
2. Healing Feelings: Make choices that stop the cycle of emotional eating that has perpetuated your weight problem. Don't let stress, anxiety, or depression lead you to self-medicate with food. Change your emotional response to life's problems, and the unwanted eating behaviors that flow from it, and you can change. He instructs readers in how to identify the "payoff" you get from overeating and addressing those negative feelings -- getting emotional closure, so you stop self-defeating habits, says Dr. Phil.
3. A No-Fail Environment: You must program your environment in every possible way to avoid binge foods and reminders to eat.
4. Mastery Over Food and Impulse Eating: "Did you binge or overeat for one reason, such as a betrayal, a job loss, an illness, some personal tragedy, and you've kept on doing it as a matter of habit? Your pounds came on quickly, but the trouble is, they stayed because you are overeating habitually, whether you are hungry or not," writes Dr. Phil.
5. High-Response Cost, High-Yield Foods: This is Dr. Phil's way of saying, "eat high-fiber and other nutritious and filling foods - whole grains, lean protein, fresh fruits and vegetables, dried beans." It also implies eating foods that take time and effort to fix, require lots of chewing, and aren't fast food or other convenience foods.
6. Intentional Exercise: "Regular, intentional exercise is a big deal, a huge deal," writes Dr. Phil. "It unlocks the door to body control - a state of fitness in which your body is metabolically geared for losing weight and keeping it off, and is flowing with energy and vitality People who successfully manage their weight and stay fit exercise as a matter of habit."
7. Your Circle of Support: "Weight loss is not a do-it-yourself deal," he writes. "If you expect to lose weight and keep it off, you must build and nurture relationships that affirm and uplift you in life-changing ways. There is strength and power in support."
He also encourages getting a medical checkup if you're having trouble losing weight. You may have biochemistry, metabolism, or thyroid problems that require medical treatment before your body will shed pounds.
Reviewed by Cynthia Haines, MD, September 2005.
SOURCES: McGraw, P. The Ultimate Weight Solution: The 7 Keys to Weight Loss Freedom, Free Press, 2003. Cynthia Sass, MPH, MA, RD, spokeswoman, American Dietetic Association; co-author, Your Diet Is Driving Me Crazy.
WebMD does not endorse any specific product, service, or treatment.

© 2005 WebMD Inc. All rights reserved.

---So, there is no easy answer. Losing weight happens in a series of steps. I do recommend getting this book, even if just borrowing it from the library. It isn't going to be the solution to all your problems but it helps. You just have to take it step by step. You're going to have set backs. You're going to feel disappointed in yourself. You just have to try again. Don't give up.

Alternatly, you may be trying to tackle too much at once. There is a method called the Singular Success Method. Basically you pick one habit to work on at a time. When you feel comfortable, move to another one. For example, one habit I have changed is switching from white bread to whole grain. You could make that the first change you make until it becomes comfortable and natural. Then you could switch from regular soda to diet soda. Once that's comfortable, you could even change diet soda to flavored waters... When you go to work, take the stairs instead of the elevator. Park one row back than you usually park so you have to walk a little further. Maybe have an apple everyday. You can eat whatever you want, just make sure you eat an apple with it.... Do you see all the small changes you can make little by little? ...

This strategy works much better for me. If I go "cold turkey" and say, "Ok, from now on, no junk food and I'll exercise 5 times a week." --- Yeah right! I probably won't make it through even the first day. You have to know yourself and be practical. Yes, this is slower, but it's longer lasting. It does you no good to go "hard core" if you're going to make mistakes you feel guilty about, (which typically will cause you to go eat to comfort yourself.)

You need to take into account your personality. There is no "one size fits all" diet and fitness program. If you want to spend the money, you may want to invest in a membership at Ediets. They come up with a custom plan and I've heard people have had great success with it. (Though the Sparkle thing Perri told us about may be just as good. I can't say, not having tried Ediets.)

Some people swear by hypnotism. In a desperate attempt last year, I bought an expensive CD hypnotism system called "The Zen of Thin" fromthis site. I believe it works for some people - but I'm not one of them. I returned mine and got my money back. I'm just not serious enough. I found I couldn't keep a straight face while listening to them half the time - I'd end up cracking up laughing... Besides, you have to have a quiet place to listen to the CDs. Most mothers don't HAVE a quiet place!

Anyway - if you want to try it for free, go to that site and scroll down on the left sidebar for a sample. (I'm playing it right now as I type. Nick was playing GameCube here in the same room. He paused it and said, "Wow. That's making me sleepy. I need a nap." And now he's laying on the couch with his eyes closed. ROFL. Maybe this thing is worth buying again. Hee hee....)

Anyway, Aisha - YOU CAN DO THIS. We're all here trying, too.

Definitely not in the plan.

2006-02-08T14:33:00.000-08:00

Wow- I haven't had a chance to come here for a few days. Thanks for the message! I am going to be waaaaaaaaay behind schedule on the exercise now. But I am still losing.

I am definitely getting exercise though having to be on crutches. It's alot of effort to haul this big bod around! And my arm muscles are killing me so that has to be a good thing. This week finishes week 3 on Nutrisystem and I am more than happy w the food and the results. Now I have been thinking...what if I didn't hurt my ankle and I was starting the treadmill? Crud.

Oh well. I know God does everything for a reason and this may be His way of slowing me down cuz I have been so rushed lately trying to squeeze work, my class, and kids + housework in 24 hours. I have to admit the relaxation has been 100% enjoyable today. My kids were at the babysitter so I actually got to read a real adult book instead of Goodnight Moon. We'll see how things go w the monkeys here tomorrow.
-k8 :)

Weighing in

2006-02-08T09:23:00.000-08:00

down 17.5 pounds
83.5 to go.

Habit fading

2006-02-08T09:16:00.000-08:00

So my biggest prblem with weight loss is eating late night. Well its been almost two weeks now and I am not tempted like I used to, to eat at night. It used to be an almost irresistiable impulse to eat. It didnt matter what. Now though I have eaten occasionally past dinner its different. I'm not impulse eating. I'm not feeling out control. Yay. The biggest thing is focusing on the discipline and not on the weight loss. Weight loss takes time and if you keep steppig on the scale for your reward you will be disapointed and after two weeks it just won't work and you give up. So is really working for me as far as behavior control :) Yay

Also SPARK PEOPLE is really great because I plugged in the amount I want to lose and how long I want to lose it in and it told me how much to eat each day etc. This is the first time I got concrete objective evidence that I *can* lose weight if I stick to it. According to the site if I stick to my diet I can lose thirty pounds by the end of May. Here's hoping! :).

K8

2006-02-07T22:33:00.000-08:00

I am SO sorry you hurt your foot. Just when you were going to get the treadmill. Don't let this get you down or derail your enthusiasm. In a few weeks, you will be good as new and ready to start walking.

Tuesday

2006-02-07T07:07:00.000-08:00

Just thought this would be a good laugh for the day! Great job for EVERYONE here! :)

Fears, Excuses and Reasons

2006-02-06T09:49:00.000-08:00

I have had so many thoughts fighting it out in my head this past weekend that I wanted to get them out. So here is what I'm thinking - without much structure.

If I lose weight I'll be more attractive.
If I'm more attractive, I'll attract more sexual attention.
The purpose of sexual attention is to attract a mate.
I already have a mate.
My mate already wants sex all the time. If I become even more attractive he'll never leave me alone.
My mate will also become jealous and even more over-protective. I'll feel suffocated.
If I lose weight I'll be able to get all the pretty clothes I always wanted.
If I get all the clothes I always wanted, I'll want accessories.
If I have clothes and accesories I'll want fancy makeup, shoes, bags.
I'll have to keep up this "perfect image" and it'll become exhausting.
Eventually I'll become so materialistic that I'll want nicer things for my home as well.
I'll be unsatisfied and never content because nothing will seem good enough.
I'll always want more.
I won't be happy.

Ok - So I see a fear of ultimatley, not being any happier. And you know what? It is true. If you aren't happy on the inside - looking better on the outside doesn't always fix everything.

So how do I get happier on the inside? Why am I unhappy?

I am unhappy because I compare myself to others. I am unhappy because I compare myself to societal beliefs about what "having it all" means. I am unhappy because somewhere deep inside I want to strive for the unrealistic manufactured beauty of Hollywood. I am unhappy because I know that even if I look put together on the outside, my inside can still be quite a mess. I'm uhappy that I have to put so much effort into something that doesn't solve all my problems. I'm unhappy that looking good for some people is effortless and that even if they have an unhealthy relationship with food - atleast it doesn't show on the outside. I'm unhappy because people judge me on how I look but if I could turn myself inside-out people would smile when they saw me coming - because although I have issues, I'm a good, nice person. I'm unhappy because I don't deserve to be judged and I don't want to care what people think, but I do.

I need to find happiness within myself. I need to find a happiness that isn't reliant on outside factors like outside opinion, the weather, what I own, or how I look.

I need to find reasons to lose this weight for the right reasons.

(RIGHT) Reasons to lose weight:

To treat my body as the temple God tells us it is.

To learn self-discipline and self-respect.

To recognize that my body is a machine which needs healthy fuel.

To learn to eat to live, not live to eat.

To find other sources of happiness and not be dependant on food.

To be an example to my children.

To live longer and be able to actively participate in the lives of future generations.

To increase the potential for a healthier life, unburdended by medical problems.

To know I'm doing the best with what I have.

To be able to express myself through what I wear instead of only wearing what fits.

To be able to participate in physical activities that are part of a happy and healthy lifestyle.

To feel the freedom of running without being incumbered.

To take the pressure off the area where a tumor was removed. (If too much pressure is put on the site, it could damage the plastic reconstruction.)

Because we only get one life and I don't want to waste anymore than I already have.

To make a statement to all the companies who don't care about our health and only care about $

...What are your (right) reasons?

Saturday at the gym...

2006-02-06T07:49:00.000-08:00

I met with my trainer for a weights and measures. I woke up with a migrain, I only made it to the gym 5 times in January, and needless to say, I didn't hold out for anything positive. I anticipated gaining....alot.

Instead, I:

LOST 9 inches
LOST 3 pounds

Apparently, changing my eating habits DID help. Is anyone as shocked as I am that just a few small changes could make such a difference? I can't feel anything lost one me, and infact, I've felt even more huge than normal lately.

I hope that everyone else has been seeing good positive results!

Monday morning weigh in

2006-02-06T05:17:00.000-08:00

Down 16 pounds since January 1.
Keep up the good work girls.

2006-02-05T20:03:00.000-08:00

Dude i am definitely gettinng the free free free treadmill i was telling you guys about and i am so stoked! he's supposed to be bringing it one night this week and you know I will have some pix of the little beauty.

Still truckin on Nutrisystem but not exercising- but that's' about to change.

-k8

It's been a hard week - but I made it.

2006-02-03T13:30:00.000-08:00

When I checked this morning I was down to 236 lbs. (Oh yes. I said the number.) I started at 245 lbs. So, that's 9 lbs. total. You may be saying, "Wait a minute - I thought she already lost that much?"... Well - I was naughty for awhile and had gained some of it back. Now it's gone again.

But I'm feeling good today. I overcame every obstacle and temptaion this week.

Just today I took the boys to Dairy Queen. Why? Maybe deep down I was considering cheating but as I sat there in the drive thru - going back in forth in my head about it, ultimatley I didn't get anything for myself. I remembered all of you here and all the hard work I've put in. Why would I waste 30 minutes on my Gazzelle for one stupid ice cream!?

So I came home and had this instead.

One thing that has been helping me is music. I used to watch TV while on the Gazzelle but I'd get bored within 10 minutes and get off. Now I listen to music on my mp3 player and it really pumps me up!

Here are the songs I'm into right now. What are yours?

Let's Get it Started - The Black Eyed Peas
Hey Ya - The Black Eyed Peas
Let's Get Loud - Jennifer Lopez
Right There - Chingy
Tipsy - Chingy
To The Line - Kanye West
Gold Digger - Kanye West
Shake Ya Tailfeather - Murphey Lee, P. Diddy, Nelly
Switch - Will Smith

(By the way - I prefer the "Clean" versions of the songs. If you can see by my selections why type of music gets me going - feel free to recommend something!)

Weighing in

2006-02-03T11:09:00.000-08:00

Down 14 pounds - guess that leaves me about 97 to go.

Looks like a helpful spot

2006-02-02T09:24:00.000-08:00

Someone told me about this site this morning. It's called www.sparkpeople.com and it's great accountability. You plug in your current weight, how much you want to weigh, and when you want to weigh that by and then they give you stats of how much you need to lose per week, how many calories you need/day to achieve that and help you factor in exercise. So, it really is a good site. Then you can plug in your food and exercise each day and it helps you track it all. Anyway, just a plug for it if you think it might help you SEE your success. :)

Dreams

2006-02-02T08:17:00.000-08:00

I believe that the dreams we have when we're sleeping are important. I believe our subconcious tries to sort things out when we're in that state and that it's beneficial to try to understand the meaning behind your dreams. So, here is a dream I had last night - which I think was very much connected to my healthy lifestyle goals and emotional/psychological issues.

I was invited to a party at Oprah's house. It was a party for women she thought were special in some way. (Oprah really did have a party like this in real life but I wasn't invited ;) ...

So, I went to her house. When Oprah saw me she embraced me. I mingled at the party for awhile but then a male staff member approached me. He said Oprah has a special package for me in a back room. I asked what it was and he said, "It's a present from Oprah." I didn't want to go with this guy so I asked if he could bring the gift to me. He said, "I'm sorry - it's a big box. Come with me."

I felt very uncomfortable around this man but didn't follow my instincts. I followed him down a narrow hall - and down deep I knew he was going to take advantage of me. Before we got to "the back room", I turned around and left hurriedly.

~~~

Now I can see clearly what my mind is working on - but I decided to look up the symbolism of some of the items in my dream out of curiosity. It was really interesting - whether it's true or not.

Box - Want to keep something safe.

Party - Celebration. Festivity. Pleasure. Want to participate in a common activity.

Hugging - Loving protection. Attention. Conform. Need for care.

Hall - Access. Privacy. Trying to find a connection with someone or something.

A Quiz - Explanatory Style

2006-02-01T07:12:00.000-08:00

Oprah's website has some excellent articles and quizzes regarding weightloss. I'm going to try and post one every now and then. This first quiz is called the What is Your Explanatory Style Quiz.

The way you think and explain things can affect your weightloss. Take the quiz. Share your results or keep them to yourself. (Hint: For the part of the quiz that says to "get a piece of paper" to write down something - you can open notepad and just type it.)

~~~

My results:

You have good mental hygiene and that's likely to make you healthier as well as happier. Keep seeking benefits in every circumstance, and you’ll increase the odds that you'll live long and prosper.

I don't care if I sound like a commercial...

2006-01-31T18:41:00.000-08:00

I've lost 11 pounds in almost 2 weeks on Nutrisystem!

And I'm eating all the food I crave, and then some. I have never been hungry. I know, it's expensive. But I figure I will not have to stay on for an extended period. I've already started experimenting with cooking stuff that meets the requirements.

I am psyched.

Just imagine what I could do if I exercised. Yikes I'm lazy.

-k8

Check it out.

2006-01-31T17:22:00.000-08:00

The Bar Method
www.barmethod.com
This works!

A thought...

2006-01-31T11:43:00.000-08:00

If this guy is running a marathon, what is my excuse for not taking a walk around the block?

What's your favorite?

2006-01-31T06:11:00.000-08:00

Hi ladies, I want to know some of your favorites.

Tell me:
What is your favorite thing to do when it's nice outside?

Your favorite thing to do when it's crummy outside?

Your favorite thing to wear, now or before?

Your favorite thing about yourself? What's your best feature?

Your favorite food, or foods?

Your favorite place to be?

Hope everyone is having a great Tuesday, and had a good start to the week!

We all have our moments...

2006-01-31T05:46:00.000-08:00

I did amazing on Friday by not eating the Krispy Kremes, but on Friday night, I had the bohemoth chinese pig-fest (and it was really good, and I am not going to be ashamed of eating it). Saturday, not so great, either. I had left-over chinese pig-fest, then went to the gym and did weights and cardio (I ran 3.29 miles in 30 mins @ level 5), and I was traveling, so I ate fast food that didn't like me so much. Sunday I did awesome with sticking to healthy choices in my food.

Yesterday, I did a great job, too, except for a piece of cake for a co-workers birthday. I went to the gym last night and did weights and elipitical, but I used a different machine, so I only lasted 20 mins (man--that was a killer). Tonight is my day off, and I need it. Work is not a fun place to be, so I'm feeling the stress right now.

A week in Review

2006-01-29T20:43:00.000-08:00

It is Sunday night. I am so pumped right now. I worked out tonight, after I put my kidlet to bed. I NEVER do that. I would rather sit on the couch and knit and watch tv. Heaven forbid I actually do something like working out and getting sweaty!

But I DID IT! That means that I worked out EVERY day this week. I did two Curves workouts and 6 Cardio workouts. Plus I ate on my Jenny Craig plan 95%. I didn't have the cupcakes or donuts at work this week. I didn't eat at the luncheons. And I didn't eat any crap food (even though I was sorely tempted because it was my time of the month).

So. My plan for this next week is to do Cardio 5 days and eat on plan. I have a doctors appointment this week which I had been putting off. For me this is a healthy week because I am not only planning on being healthy, but I am taking the steps too!

I weigh in on Tuesday ...

PS. The SELF CHALLENGE begins in Feb and sign ups start on Feb 1. I am going to do it. Anyone else up for a little challenge?

Weighing in - Friday

2006-01-27T20:50:00.000-08:00

Down 12.5 pounds since January 1.

Guess that leaves me about a hundred or so to go.

I suck.

2006-01-27T10:27:00.000-08:00

I have been avoiding coming in here because I've been a naughty girl. I have gained most of the weight I had loss back again. I'm trying to be good today again.

I have been mindlessly eating - bingeing - trying to fill some emotional void. Even when things are going well in life in general - something inside feels sad and empty. I'm taking my antidepressants so I don't know what the deal is.

I think my weight problem is totally psychologically related. I did the Dr. Phil book before and it helped for awhile, but like everything else, it was a temporary fix.

I may have to seek out an Overeaters Anonymous group or something. I just don't know what will do it for me. When will I finally make and KEEP that connection that food is not my friend. Food does not equal happiness. Food is for feeding physical hunger... not emotional.

~Tee

Newbie

2006-01-27T10:07:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone,

I have decided to dive in head first and join you all. If anyone is looking for a partner please let me know!

A little about me (since this group seems to know each other rather well!). I am a semi single mom as my husband lives in another city at the moment. We have one 3 year old son and I have 2 of our 3 dogs. I work full time and am addicted to knitting. I have a website where I write about my life, knitting and the journey to being healthy.

I have about 40lbs of FAT that I would like to get rid of. My food program is Jenny Craig, which I love because it allows me to not have to think about what I am going to cook for myself OR let me be lazy and fall back into the habit of eating out constantly. My son also eats the dinners! As for exercise, I am working out a minimum of 4 days a week but as of this week have stepped it up. I am doing 6-7 days of cardio and at least 2 workouts at my local Curves.

So now you know a little about me! I look forward to getting to know all of you too.

2006-01-27T09:31:00.000-08:00

Checking in to let you all know that Nutrisystem is really working great for me. The major advantage is the wide variety of food choices and the quantity of food I get to eat for such a successful diet. I lost 8 pounds on the first week of the program. Yip.

-k8

If I've learned anything this week...

2006-01-27T05:50:00.000-08:00

it's that you NEVER EVER tell the people you work with you are on a diet. When you do, even those you consider your friends will find subtle ways to sabotage you in your weak moment.

Case in point: Today, I come to work and am confronted with 12 minions of hell in the form of Krispy Kremes. Why would someone you consider a friend attempt to sabotage you in this way?

Yesterday, this same friend tried to get me to eat ice cream and other candy because we were working late, and the vending machine choices are limited. I opted for the sugar-free/fat-free ice cream bar that was offered (actually it was really good). I also had two squares of a chicken quesadilla that was left-over from her lunch. I only had this because I'm attempting to adhere to the eating every 4 hours, and it had been 6.5 hours since I had lunch. Then she tries to tell me that I don't need any dinner, because I had two peices of quesadilla and an ice cream bar. Everyone knows that this is not a sufficient meal!

So, not only is this person sabotaging me, she is subtly insulting me as well. Is it because she's angry with me? Is she jealous? Or is she just being mean and petty because she wants me to fail? It's not as if this girl is thin (she could stand to lose about 40 lbs herself), so it looks like she would want me to succeed, especially since I thought it would be easier to support each other at work. Usually, she's the one walking around saying how fat she is, and how much weight she needs to lose. Now that I'm making more of an effort, she's working against it. I just don't understand!

Thankfully, another co-worker is lending support, and we both have turned our backs on the Krispy Kremes, and we have banded together to stay strong today. Even though the KK's are on the Table. Right. Behind. Me.

~ruthie

On the wall at my gym...

2006-01-26T05:23:00.000-08:00

I am a work in progress.

My body is under construction.

I will not quit,

Therefore, I will not fail.

I just thought that we all could use a little bit of inspiration today. I'm really happy that everyone is doing as well as they are. Great job, girls! (and guys, if we have any closet readers out there).

Like Aisha, today is day 4 of my lifestyle change, too. I've been pretty good about cutting out white things (except for the rice I had on Tuesday night), and the 2 small flour tortillas I had last night with dinner. Change is a process and it takes time--and I'm not on any specific plan, so I don't think eating rice or a tortilla will jeopardize my plan, since it's of my own creation.

My diet plan--eat more veggies and fruits, whole grain, lean protien and eat less refined sugars from pasta and candy. Pretty simple, eh? Yeah, I think so, too. It also makes it pretty easy to follow. I give myself free reign on veggies--since they are good for you and have no fat and practically any calories, I tell myself I can have unlimited amounts. I don't eat unlimited amounts, but I know that if I wanted them, I could. :)

I went to the gym last night and hit 2.94 miles in 30 mins at level 5 on the eliptical, and I did my weights. If I can make it there one more time this week, I'll be happy.

Happy Thursday, everyone!

Blech

2006-01-25T19:48:00.000-08:00

Day 4 and I'm still being good. I had told myself I wouldnt weigh myself for a week or two. Three days is not going to drop anything. But I did and it saddened me that Im the same. I guess b/c each moment of this is hard and for zero change.. it frustrates me you know? ?But i'm staying strong. I had thoughts of hershey kisses and a chick filet sandwhich or two but I stayed pretty good. Maybe overdid my lunch portion size but still... could be worse.

I was going to hae lunch with hubby tomorrow at our usual fave spot. BUT its all fatty foods so I'm not going to go. It's the right thing but it sucks. When certain things are part of your life it's hard to end them though you know its the right thing to do.

mmmmmmmmmmmmm

2006-01-24T19:34:00.000-08:00

yummy taco salad i made tonight as a permissible modification to the plain shells and meat they give you. monkeys liked it too, as you can tell.

Slowly but surely...

2006-01-24T07:48:00.000-08:00

I'm reinstating some of my healthier eating habits. This weekend, I made my favorite chili with turkey burger. It was yummy, as I had it for lunch and dinner on Sunday, and then lunch yesterday, and finish the little bit left for a snack last night before the gym.

Yes, I DID go to the gym last night. I did both weights and cardio. I hit 2.86 miles in 30 mins at level 5 on the eliptical.

For dinner, I had this garlic pineapple chicken stirfry that I totally made up as I went along. Basically, cooked the chicken with a little bit of garlic powder and olive oil, then dumped in whatever frozen veggies I felt like, which ended up being carrots, peas, broccoli, and spinach. Then I added chunks of pineapple, and before I added the juice from the pineapple, I mixed in a little bit of cornstarch to thicken it while it cooked. It was good over rice (though I know the rice and cornstarch added bad carbs). I'm having the rest as lunch today.

I have a trainer appointment on Feb 4. I guess I'll find out how much damage I've done to myself with my crazy work schedule which prevents me from going as much as I would like to.

My goal this week is to go to the gym at least two more times by weeks end.

~ruthie

Blogger Biggest Loser

Wow, the board is quiet...

Anybody?

Kicking it in the butt!

Happy Holidays, Everyone!

Talking to strangers...

Not this week...

update

Feeling Strong!

On the way down!

Mexican Deep-Dish Pan Pizza | Rachael Ray Show

Feeling good today!

Another update!

Cyclic Action

Liquid lunch and dinner...

progress report...

Tips for Treadmill Workouts...

Hi, all!

Since noone is posting...

Sorry Ruthie!

Hello?!?

MIA but back...

updating

Sorry I've been MIA lately...

I know, I know, I'm a slacker.

At first I was happy about this....

Its a struggle, but I'm trying...

Weighing in

Speaking of cravings...***

Got Craving?

Phase II of South Beach

I'm a loser

what's up everybody?

Update

Nothing

checking in...

Weighing In

even though I have a tummy bug...

The Weekend Report -- which I just posted on the wrong blog - sorry girls.

How did that happen

Struggle

Walking video

been a while

Weighing In

Checking In...

Still going....

Last night...

A calorie counter

Weighing in

Annoyed

To my fellow BBL members...

Ruthie and all else struggling TRY SPARKPEOPLE

To Ruthie ~~~~

Weighing in

Weight Watchers?

Just call me Fatty McButterball!

finally back...

Not Motivated

Throwing out an idea

Missing - One Chin

Yay

Liquid Cancer

Soup from Heaven

*tsk tsk* Slacker

I have to tell someone.

Here I come!

Answering Aisha...

Definitely not in the plan.

Weighing in

Habit fading

K8

Tuesday

Fears, Excuses and Reasons

Saturday at the gym...

Monday morning weigh in

It's been a hard week - but I made it.

Weighing in

Looks like a helpful spot

Dreams

A Quiz - Explanatory Style

tsk tsk Slacker