| Forum | Topic | Date | Replies |
 |
|
|
|
| Motivation | Wagon Jumpers - November 15 - 21, 2009 (Closed) | Nov 17 2009 13:41 (UTC) |
18 |
Sara - I would be the last person worthy of giving advice at this moment, but I cannot refute the thought (based solely on your wisdom and teaching) that went through my mind while reading your checkin. NUMBERS ARE YOUR ENEMY. I know I don't need to say another word. Other than: Congratulations on your success!! CHECKIN: I am maintaining. One week of exercise plus one week of non-exercise = maintenance. Wasn't that another of your wise deductions, Sara? 50% success is equal to maintenance... Well, at least I am maintaining. I do feel good about that! I did not manage to log or to exercise last week, but I did eat appropriately. Somehow the eating part seems to have stuck in my psyche. I actually enjoy eating this way, its like its just a part of me. That's how I want my exercise to be. Just something that "is".... not something I have to focus on, plan for, stress over... I will get my three workouts in this week if it kills me. ... see, that's the attitude I don't want. I wish somehow... that the exercise just happened because "that's just how it is" - do I make sense? That is how the food goes! Why can't exercise be that way? I am thinking about maybe joining a sports team. Roller Derby... Softball... Crew... I don't know. Something that will be active motivation for me. I know that if I pay for it, or others depend on me to do it... I will do it. SO - somehow I have to incorporate one of those elements into it. This could be a great discussion topic. (??) Anyway... all for now... Healthgain to all! HUGS! ~Julie
|
|||
| Motivation | Wagon Jumpers - November 8-14, 2009 (Closed) | Nov 12 2009 13:16 (UTC) |
10 |
CHECKIN: I did so well last week. It seems to be happening again though. This up and down roller coaster is really getting old. I apologize that I am not very participatory lately. I do think though, after reading how others think about our assignment, that if I was purposely paired, it may generate a little more motivation for me to do it. I will check back in later. ~Julie |
|||
| Motivation | Wagon Jumpers - November 1-7, 2009 (Closed) | Nov 06 2009 12:52 (UTC) |
6 |
CHECKIN AGAIN: Well, I am on track 100% for the week for exercise. With my eating, I know I am on track, but have not logged. Reason being, I am off my regular menu because there hasn't been money to buy things I usually have on hand, like protein bars. I have made bunches of yogurt lately, and using crushed berries from the freezer to flavor it. Works nicely. Peanut butter has been a staple, and chick peas too. Hummus is my best friend lately. Fortunate that I found some really super huge, and I'm talking like 7" diameter green bell peppers at the store. It must be the season! But I like to cut those up for dipping into the hummus. Eggs for breakfast, peanut butter for a snack, soup for lunch, yogurt for a snack, and dinner has actually been a protein shake a couple times this week. Logging seems silly with that menu. LOL! Anyway, its good to report that I walked twice this week 1.5 miles. Did the zumba video once, and yoga three times. YAY! I am back on track! Next week I add back in the 100 pushup challenge. Weigh in today, down one pound. Four to go before I am where I left off. Recovering ground is not fun, let me tell you. I totally agree with Carol, savor where you are! I am looking forward to the weekend, I am heading to my BF's mom's (totally love her!) to do some painting in her house. Should be good to burn a little extra energy. Hope you all have a healthgain weekend! |
|||
| Motivation | Wagon Jumpers - November 1-7, 2009 (Closed) | Nov 04 2009 14:25 (UTC) |
15 |
CHECKIN AGAIN: I made it to walk again last evening. Its getting dark earlier now, and the darkness is somewhat of a deterrant, but I went anyhow! I even managed to get my daughter to go with me. AND... I made it on time this morning to do the TV yoga. Its really pretty good. Steve Ross, Inhale, on Oxygen Channel. Can't beat it for free anyway! (Not counting that I pay for Cable TV... LOL) So... hope everyone has a fabulous Wednesday, healthgain to all! As Sara ~Julie |
|||
| Motivation | Wagon Jumpers - November 1-7, 2009 (Closed) | Nov 03 2009 19:08 (UTC) |
19 |
Carrie - When I make salmon, I usually drench it in lemon juice, pressed garlic, and pepper, then either broil it or grill it. You could bake it no problem as well... even some water in the bottom of your pan can produce a nice fluffy poached version... CHECKIN: I am back. I finally found the mojo. I really don't know where it goes, or where I found it, but somehow something jolted me free. It could have been the time change. It could have been the fact that I got on the scale and actually saw 5 extra lbs, which I knew would show up eventually. I said... NUF!! EEEE NUF! SO, yesterday I went for a 1.5 mile brisk walk in the cool fall air, and this morning I did yoga with Inhale on the Oxygen Channel. Today I will do the walk again, I am thinking I will be able to walk as such every day. Either that or my zumba video. I am not expecting that I should exceed my goal, I am just going to try to. I can and will do this. I have a friend who is loaning me P90X, so I am excited! What I miss is weight lifting. I really do. I don't know what to do about it though. I have some 60 lb sand bags in my garage, maybe I could use them somehow to at least do squats. So, to sum up the answer to the assignment. I have every intention of being 100% over the next 6 weeks, regardless of holidays or anything else. I can and will. This will give me a 50% success rate for the whole 12 weeks. And I remember what Sara once said, being on track 50% of the time is equal to maintenance. I suppose since I gave nothing to myself the last six weeks, I should give it all to myself this six weeks... Yay for "all or nothing"! LOL! ( Ok Ok, sarcasm doesn't help!) Carol - You said it to me last week, now I get to turn it around. Please know I am not vengeful like that either! LOL! But see, you were right, and much of what has been running through my head, are things you said... focus on something that is a constant (and yes the movie Pollyanna has played a few times in my head, thanks haha)... savor where you are... be grateful for every hour of time we are given... Girl, stay with it. You know you have a handle on it, get right back up. HUGS~!! Hope you all are thinking Healthgain!
|
|||
| Motivation | Wagon Jumpers - October 25 - 31, 2009 (closed) | Oct 29 2009 16:12 (UTC) |
13 |
Sara - I do suppose that a plan would fix it. However, the fundamental problem with a plan is that I would have to actually do something. Total Catch 22. I'm certain that's why there isn't a plan for it. LOL... a plan for those who can't keep plans. HAHA.. thats funny!! I am ROFL! That would be a goldmine, would it not? Well, at least I am laughing. I am not "there" yet, but things are getting better. Things are always better when I work harder at my job. Money gets better, and I become more positive. *sigh*... still lots of sighs in my day though. I have to self talk out of that soon. I feel a little excitement building. Just a little. I was just pondering upon getting out into the fall air. Walking in the fallen leaves... jogging around the corners. I can see myself doing all that. Now just to do it. I have to do that soon. You know, this is pretty much living proof, that "What you focus on, you create more of." I have had my focus askew. I have to sharpen my view soon. Carol, I also love what you said about being proud of where you are. I think I have mistakenly taken advantage of my status quo. I saw myself looking great and feeling great, and wrongly percieved that as "quitting time." JOB OVER, time to punch the clock. ....(This being new territory for me, I guess I have learned a lesson in how to handle it!)..... I am fairly certain that I savored it... a little too much! I enjoyed, and over-indulged because my good feelings decieved me into invincibility... (never trust your feelings? I've heard that said before...) into thinking I deserve it because of all my hard work, or that I am so far into it that a little bit of hoopla won't hurt much. ....uh huh *eyes peering over glasses in my direction*..... most likely Sara's glasses. LOL! I realize that is not exactly what you meant about savoring it. Let me spin that to positive now. Savoring means: 1. To impart flavor or scent 2. To taste or smell, especially with pleasure 3. To appreciate fully; enjoy or relish Looks like #3 would be our base definition for all intents and purposes in this group. To go beyond that, it should additionally mean (maybe just within the confines of this group?): With a celebratory aire or connotation, savoring our current successes means that we love ourselves right now for who we are, what we've accomplished so far, and looking forward to future success, without over-celebrating so that we would end up sabotaging what has already been accomplished. IE: All things in moderation applies here. HEH - look at that Sara, the old "all or nothing mentality" rears its ugly head yet once again. And what's worse is, I DIDN'T EVEN RECOGNIZE IT. (I could cry.) I know there is still more that I want to accomplish. Much much more. The "woe is me" mentality (so eloquently mentioned by Kyashiis) has got to go. I have to get over this soon. I am also working, Carol, on what my 24 hours are worth to me. Lately many more than should be, have been wasted sleeping. Not good. I have to get back to early mornings! The sun is shining today. It does help my head clear. I just have to keep remembering: Its always sunny above the clouds. (my own quote!) I noticed a pattern after re-reading this... I underlined the pattern phrases.... looks like maybe I'm on my way up again. The sunshine helps a LOT. Have a healthgain day Everyone! |
|||
| Motivation | Wagon Jumpers - October 25 - 31, 2009 (closed) | Oct 27 2009 01:54 (UTC) |
25 |
Mine are more internalized. They tend to affect the whole. 1. My boyfriend works away, and I only see him every 2 weeks now, I miss him so much, it's depressing me. 2. My income has been reduced due to general economy downturn. (I need to find a new job.) I can't afford my gym membership (much less a few other things), and I hate working out alone. 3. I won't gain weight. I'll watch what I eat, and it won't matter if I skip exercise for .... 2 months. Turn to positives: 1. He cares how I look no matter how often I see him. I care too! 2. Work harder. Apply the principles you have learned the past year, and make your work a success again so you can get back to the gym! 3. To self: "Of all the things you have learned, you know that exercise is non-negotiable." My first excuse started as thus: "I don't want to do this homework, everyone will know I've lost my mojo, and I don't want to be embarassed." I turned it to positive: "You really need to do this homework, it is going to help you, and keep you accountable for your actions, or lack thereof!" Sara, Thank you for the very positive and encouraging note for making it one year and one month. I still don't believe that I made it THAT long! Guys, I just can't find it. My objectives are seared, and somehow I have an "I don't care" attitude that just won't go away. WHAT HAPPENED? Any shrinks in the group? LOL! Don't get me wrong, I am not eating crazy. I still stick to my general rules of high protein, quality carbs, less fat. Well ok, confession, while the foods I ate qualified by the rules, I ate way tooo much at least three times this weekend while I was with BF. So much that I was reminded why I do NOT enjoy over-eating. I was miserable. But generally, when I am here at home, and cooking just for me, I eat exactly how I should. Except for those brownies last week. Oh, and the birthday ice cream for my daughter. But other than that, I ate perfectly. Do you see what I did in that last paragraph? I am lying to myself. I still want to be the way I was, and want to pretend that I am, while I am allowing myself to over indulge on a couple different levels. Including, just being lazy. While most of the time I do eat "by the rules", I have been allowing too many slip-ups. And with that, and lack of exercise.... even though I have not gained any weight, I can see it happening soon. And I don't want it to happen. I just have to decide how much I don't want it to happen. Be back later. Hopefully with an answer. ~Julie PS It just struck me how much I like what Carol wrote about focusing on what I CAN do, not what I can't do........................................... .............................. ... |
|||
| Motivation | Wagon Jumpers - October 18 - 24, 2009 (1 waiting list spot available) | Oct 19 2009 19:27 (UTC) |
38 |
My recipe. Pumpkin Soup (use canned pumpkin) An easy version to just whip up real fast, and have around for snacks or dessert. Hope your day is Healthgain,
|
|||
| Motivation | Wagon Jumpers - October 18 - 24, 2009 (1 waiting list spot available) | Oct 19 2009 15:24 (UTC) |
42 |
Hi all, Congrats to Denise, and to bigbitty on your babies! Nothing like a precious new little one to add joy to your life. Love on them lots, they do grow fast! CHECKIN: I am off the wagon gals. It's ok though. I am not so off that I have lost ground. I just cant seem to make myself do my goals this round. It all started after vacation. I got this mental block of sorts that is making me rebel against everything. All I want to do is sleep! I dont want to work, see anyone, or even cook. Much less... e x e r c i s e. Its that time of year I suppose, when I feel overwhelmed because I know winter is coming, my business will suffer its seasonal down-turn, holidays will come up short on money, and the weather is cold. I think I'd like to be a bear, and just hibernate. I wish. I am trying to psyche myself up. But even when I do write a list, or try to make myself focus, I still find myself staring off into nothing ness at times. I do just feel like crying. Don't worry though, depression is very good for weight loss. LOL! I haven't gained an ounce. In fact, I dont feel like eating. Anyway *SIGH* - I know you dont want to hear me babble on about how glum my life is. I will try to stay in the loop this week. And at least exercise, even if I don't log my foods. I know I have been getting the protein, I eat protein bars like meals. And I know that's not good. Its the excercise where I have fallen so short. The only exercise I did last week was one session of yoga, and that was on Friday because I was trying to get myself out of the mental spiral. Not sure it worked. I dont know what happened to my "just do it" attitude. This all doesnt sound right for me. I know it doesnt. I just dont know what is wrong. Could it really be the weather? Anyway, healthgain to all. Stay warm, and HUGS. I promise to check in at least twice more this week, and show a true interest in the group. It can only help to make myself stay accountable to SOMEthing. Recipe to follow... ~Julie
|
|||
| Motivation | Wagon Jumpers - October 11 - 17 (closed) | Oct 12 2009 20:45 (UTC) |
23 |
CHECKIN: On track with protein goal, on track with cardio goal. The protein goal is still difficult. Any other ideas on high protein recipes would be greatly appreciated! Healthgain to all! |
|||
| Motivation | Wagon Jumpers - October 4 - 10, 2009 (closed) | Oct 09 2009 12:33 (UTC) |
3 |
I just dont know what happened to the missing week! LOL I cant figure this out either. I have been right on target with my protein, slightly under on calories, I have worked out extra hard 3x this week, but weigh in this morning says I have gained 5 lbs. WHAT?!? That does have to be water I would think. It just baffles me. Anyway, this is my final checkin, off to the wild blue yonder for a weekend away... hope you enjoy yours. Healthgain to all!
|
|||
| Motivation | Wagon Jumpers - October 4 - 10, 2009 (closed) | Oct 07 2009 17:44 (UTC) |
10 |
CHECKIN: I did my workout yesterday, and looking forward to today's. I missed yoga, but can make it up in the morning, and Friday. I forgot to tell you all that I lost 2 lbs last week, my Friday weigh in was a nice suprise. I can't wait til this friday as I have been eating on target all week! Kyashiis - LOL @ the "30 lbs gone, gone, gone." I have another 23. I agree about CC being such an amazing tool. I totally enjoy the Analysis tab! It has helped me really SEE what I am eating. I am like you too in that what I have learned has really and truly been internalized, and very much a part of my psyche. Falling back seems highly unlikely. It has been a total reprogramming of my mind processes. Becky - Welcome to Wagon Jumpers! It looks like you did it right to me, Sara will however have to be the judge! She always knows what to say to keep me in line, and has often prevented me from trying to over-do it. I wish you all the best! Hope everyone has a healthgain day! |
|||
| Motivation | Wagon Jumpers - October 4 - 10, 2009 (closed) | Oct 06 2009 20:33 (UTC) |
13 |
Third week, Sara? I thought we were only in the second week of our challenge... or did I misunderstand? Ah well... at least I am on track... MY track, but on track. LOL!! CHECKIN: The exercise went well last week, getting the jump start on Sunday was a great boost! 100% there. I am about 40% on the protein intake. Being forced to track so I am aware of how much I get was something I was not looking forward to, but I see now how much it is needed. I made it only two days meeting 150 g, it is way more difficult than I recall when I first started. I may have to go back to home made yogurt, I havent had any for a while. I also am creating a recipe that will have a huge amount of protein in it. It will make an abundance of it, but I can store it for later use! I'll post the link here when I am finished. Curry Chicken Pea Soup This week's exercise is lacking so far, in fact, nonexistent. I did not take advantage of getting the Sunday Jump... hehe. And Monday ended up being a wash also. SO, I have three days to get in three workouts. Not the healthiest schedule I know, but it has to be done. As Friday noon, I leave for the weekend. I may or may not be able to workout there so, I feel I better get them in before I go. If perchance I get to then awesome! A little extra burn! Exercise is NON-NEGOTIABLE. Did I hear that?!? LOL! I want a massage, I want a massage, I want a massage... ********** TOPIC: I love lifting weights. I haven't done so much recently due to financial stresses forcing me to drop my gym membership. However, I see that coming back in the near future! Rules of Lifting for Women, is a good book for a guide on your routine. It works every part of your body, and keeps a mix going so you don't get bored. I really enjoyed the challenge. I did not complete it yet, but I got to level 6 before I had to pull out. I plan to do it all again from the beginning soon! ********** I had a busy week last week, and it looks like it may get even busier next week. But for now, I have to breath while I can. LOL. My daughter has found herself in a fix and needs my help. She and her baby will most likely come to stay with me for a while. Unsure how long. BUT, I will be helping her find a job, and get into school. A worthy cause, I believe! I wanted to tell you all last week, but as it seems happened for a few of us, it got away from me. Thank goodness its only Tuesday THIS week! What I wanted to discuss was my one-year anniversary of WJ! It has been an amazing journey. I have watched myself transform (literally) in so many ways. It has not only affected the physical parts of me, but the mental, and spiritual parts as well. I feel a difference in my heart. Do you know what I mean? Finding myself being successful at gaining health has influenced every aspect of my life. I feel stronger in so many new ways. Capable in so many new ways. More confident... wayyyy more confident. It has given me the ability to gain some control on certain issues in my personal life as well as my professional life. I highly recommend gaining health to all I know. Including you! ... because... you're worth it. Thank you Sara for hosting this group, and for all your feedback, encouragement, knowledge, explanations, even the road blocks and the kindest of reprimands... lol! You are an amazing woman. Thank you! Healthgain to all! |
|||
| Games & Challenges | Word association | Sep 30 2009 17:41 (UTC) |
835 |
comforter |
|||
| Motivation | Wagon Jumpers - September 27 - October 3, 2009 (2 waiting list spots available) | Sep 30 2009 17:36 (UTC) |
10 |
You all will have to forgive me as well on the assignment. I just have to focus on work this week. Sorry about it! I will however, enjoy reading about all the rest of you! I know I will have to post again, I have to report on my ONE YEAR OF WJ!!!! I can hardly believe its been a year. But, for now this will be short. CHECKIN: I am doing fine with waiting until Friday to weigh in. I haven't even wanted to get onto the scale, I am kindof excited about the fact that I am able to wait it out! I also am doing great with protein intake. I had a double shake for breakfast this morning and it has really kept me feeling full today with over 50g of protein! With exercise I am: 1 of 3 on yoga I'll get another cardio and another triple play in this evening. A yoga tomorrow and Friday, and a triple play for sure as well tomorrow, and maybe even another cardio. I'll be above my goal! I figured out how to make DVDs of youtube video!! I am so excited, I can now do Zumba at home! If you guys are interested, I'd be glad to make and send you a copy! Just PM me your address. (Consider it an early Christmas gift!) Healthgain to all, |
|||
| Games & Challenges | Word association | Sep 27 2009 03:02 (UTC) |
913 |
couch |
|||
| Motivation | Wagon Jumpers - September 20 - 26, 2009 (Closed, 2 waiting list spots available) | Sep 27 2009 00:09 (UTC) |
3 |
Thanks all for your responses and the warm welcome back! Carry - I too envy your talents! ... and I like your exploration idea. There are tons of local historical sites here in West Virginia. I really should take more advantage! ... and hey, maybe even a hike while I'm there! Sara I too prefer the instant gratification, but thinking deeper on that, I've concluded that that is not the healthiest way. If I turn that around and think about the instantaneousness I previously expected from weight loss or diet efforts, then it makes sense not to do it. I have to accept it (delayed reward) as a more sincere method of controlling my all or nothing mentality, hence gaining more success. Meri - I like your picnic idea! Dove I love shakes too, Hmmm. I have one every now and then, but maybe I could add a couple through the week to cut a few more calories. Not to mention, get more protein. Ok, because I did not weigh in yesterday (Friday), my first round of weigh-in, I did it this morning. So, my official start weight for this round is 165. AND... because I am really not looking forward to the structured exercise routine I have set for myself, I took today off, and officially start logging to track protein, and really hyped for cardio tomorrow. yay. :( LOL. Here's how a day will look: 6am - Yoga I figure if I start on Sunday, I am way ahead of schedule! I really want a massage. I really want a massage. I really want a massage. Healthgain to all,
|
|||
| Motivation | Wagon Jumpers - September 20 - 26, 2009 (Closed, 2 waiting list spots available) | Sep 25 2009 18:43 (UTC) |
11 |
I want to talk about goal setting today. (mine, that is... ) I took a look at some of my early posts, and realized what had me so motivated in the beginning, which made me realize my laxness in the last challenge, which by the way, not a total failure. Lost down to 162, but since vacation (which gave me back 8 lbs), I am back to 166. So, four more to recover. I think maybe I've gotten back into some of my old habits of number fixations. I am a bit obsessive with the scale these days, SO... I have decided to put it away and weigh in only on Fridays. As for success/failure on the recent 12-week challenge, I missed on both goals, mainly because I did not track my progress. I know it's not a zero, but I also know I can't speculate a percentage of passing. I do know that I managed to do ok until the last 4 weeks of the challenge, when I pretty much just said to myself "I need a break". BUT if divided into 4 week segments, two out of 3 were great! so 66 percent passing? LOL. Anyway... Basically, I have had about 3 weeks off from doing anything with any of this. LOL! Not good, and I'll tell you why... I started back exercising this week, and WOW, do I hurt! Warning to all who think time off is not going to do any harm, I feel as if I have started at the beginning. Very, very sore! Now, that my preface is out of the way, I will explain what I learned from reviewing my beginning posts... Goalsetting for me, must contain 3 facets. I learned this from Doug Robb. He writes a blog, that I will have to give you the link to later. Maybe Sara knows it offhand? Anyway... the three facets of healthgain goals for me are: 1. Exercise I have focused my goals the past two rounds, maybe three rounds... on just the first two. I have not managed to make my plan complete because I have failed to acknowledge that hard work deserves reward, and this may be where I have lost some momentum. Which, in the beginning when I was rewarding myself, was not much problem. Rewards are difficult for me to author. I sometimes feel as if I do not deserve something good. ... or that the results of my work are reward enough. While that is true, the incentive is quite different than that which something tangible offers. True that I just had a vacation. However, I could not exactly count that as a reward for this... why? Well, because pass or fail this... I was still going on vacation. LOL... which I did. SO, even though we can only post two goals, I have a third goal in the background of creating and actually DOING self-rewards. I will post them for you. I have also found myself falling back into the old habit of negative self talk. Not as severe as in years previous to WJ, for sure! However, I have many times over my life, been at this current weight, and have been very happy here. So I have caught myself being complacent with foods, especially carbs, not to a great extent, but telling myself things like "pasta can be healthy" ... or "one donut isn't going to hurt you!" even, "this is HEALTHY bread, and it even has protein!" - well, all that may be true, but the balance was off with exercise, and I am sure thats why I am still battling the last 4 lbs. I really did eat donuts. But only TWO. That was a week ago, too, and I am still feeling "fat" from it! I had pasta two nights in a row this week (wheat pasta though!), and popcorn too. UGH. I guess I am beating myself up too much, and just need to get focused on more positive things. LMAO... like protein. I have a bit further to go, so I can't get complacent! Point being, from reading that last paragraph after I wrote it... exercise is non-negotiable. Did I hear that?!? NON-NEGOTIABLE. I read over the posts you guys made while I was gone, and it was hard for me to realize what is important to me these days. So much is good, but so much is also not how I truly want it. I didn't think I am that hard to please! LOL, maybe I am. Sheesh. Finances have been difficult. Its really not due to the vacation, that was already paid up way before we went. The economy truly does affect "main-street" dwellers. I am one. I think maybe that has me a little depressed and negative. But I am not giving up by any means, just working harder. However, it has affected my gym membership and I've had to let it lapse. SO, all that said, I have a few goals in mind, I'm not really motivated, because I miss the gym. And I'll be openly honest, that I don't want to do these, I mean I realllly don't want to do these!! I am not even motivated to SET goals... because I know I will have to do them... LOL - However, in spite of my "wants", I am fighting these thoughts, because I know I can't give up. I am trying to make these very simple, while yet avoiding the all or nothing mentality of pass 100% or fail 100%. The problem with my attitude is that in order to maintain my gym-level workouts, I have to work even harder freestyle. SO, the goal setting is a little more difficult. In this Challenge: Cardio will have the options of speedwalking or jogging out doors, or finding a way to do zumba in my basement (trying to prep for cold weather), hoping to get a friend to come and do it with me. I dont really have weights here at home, so I have additional (that I can't include in the challenge) goals of the 100 pushup challenge to completion, doing what I call the triple play (lunges or squats, crunches or obliques, and pullups, variations for different days). I suppose I should just do the body weight matrix thats in NROLFW! I may, in fact. ... and then there's the yoga on TV (Inhale)... 3x a week at 6am. I am an early bird, so it will work. And I haven't gotten to do yoga much since I moved here.. .kinda miss that. Here are my goals for the challenge (not really sure how to label MTC or NEW...): 1. Exercise: Cardio 3x/wk (to know protein grams, I obviously have to track foods... not happy about that either.) In the area of rewards, (trying to make exciting so I am more motivated! LOL!)my goals are as follows: IF ON TRACK: 4 weeks - trip to massage therapy Those are about all I can think of. If anyone else has any ideas, I really need to hear them! Healthgain ways to all, PS Thanks for listening to me ramble (back to my old habits for sure!)... AND welcome to all new members! |
|||
| Motivation | Wagon Jumpers - September 20 - 26, 2009 (Closed, 2 waiting list spots available) | Sep 23 2009 02:39 (UTC) |
19 |
Well, vacation is done. Its been a long two days back in the office. I'm tired. I have not finalized my goals, but will post them by week's end. Carol, I had to do the same thing. Slow myself down and think about what I was doing. Gaining this step made me feel more in control. I even made little notes and stuck them in places where I would be reminded when things became mindless. IE: The cabinet door where the peanutbutter is stored. LOL! I would go to the drawer, grab a spoon, and fling open that door, and just dig right in. Yes, by the spoonful. Now, while peanutbutter in an of itself is not bad eating, its how I was doing it. I think you are on the right track to gaining control. The procedure you have set for yourself will help you. I didn't save the notes (SHOULD HAVE), but I recall one of them simply stating... "THINK!" - another one said: "EAT THAT AT THE TABLE." The notes really helped because I do think we get caught up in our "usual routine". It made me realize that I was fully capable of taking charge of my habits, and changing them for good. I'll dig around, maybe I can find some that got stuck in a file folder or something... OK guys, I will update my "progress" later, I need to rest. Its obvious that I have a lot of catching up to do with you all! I've been reading the threads, and feel like I've missed out! Anyway.... Healthgain to all, |
|||
| Motivation | Wagon Jumpers - September 13 - 19, 2009 (Closed, 1 waiting list spot available) | Sep 16 2009 18:38 (UTC) |
37 |
... just a drive by thought To shatter the downfall before it's being ascertained is to battle yet harder against my old foe complacency. Healthgain to all, |
|||
| Motivation | Wagon Jumpers - August 30 - September 5, 2009 (2 Waiting List Spots Available) | Sep 03 2009 16:09 (UTC) |
13 |
I wasn't going to post any more due to time restraints before leaving for vacation, but I can't not. LOL. Thanks Everyone, for the notes of affirmation. I can't help but respond to Meri's question about protein. In my case, I had to go get some protein powder. It can add up to 25 grams per serving, and if you choose wisely when you purchase, you can find very low cal / low fat versions. I have found it to be essential. It has so many viable options in recipes also, rather than just with milk or in a shake. I use a scoop of either vanilla or chocolate in morning coffee, a scoop of vanilla in my oatmeal, i make pancakes with 3eggwhites and a scoop of vanilla, with a small banana and 1/4 cup of oatmeal, served with sugar free syrup. I have even mixed it into fat-free plain yogurt with some crushed berries. Just get creative, you'll come up with your own ideas! Protein bars are also something I added to my menu. They're like having a treat, but it's really good for you! I get Pure Protein Peanutbutter Chocolate. Kinda like a candy bar. Stay away from the high carb ones though. And on your ratios... the lower fat ratio is good! If its below 30 for me, I consider myself to have exceeded my expectations. Now, if you can manage to keep that one low, and just get the protein up, you won't have to worry as much about carbs, especially if its as you say and they're not junk carbs. My carbs come from oatmeal, whole grain bread, fruits, berries, veggies. As long as they're healthy carbs, and your fats are low, and your protein is high, you've pretty much got it whipped.... regardless of calories. Honest. That's how I am doing it anyhow. LOL. Ok, 'nuff said. Time to get packin' some more stuff! Making the selections is so hard, there's so much I want to take, but can't.... :( ...hehe. Talk to you all soon, I hope I can write from the beach. Not sure (RE: Carol's experience) that my iPhone will allow me. But I'll TRY! Healthgain to all,
|
|||
| Motivation | Wagon Jumpers - August 30 - September 5, 2009 (2 Waiting List Spots Available) | Aug 31 2009 19:10 (UTC) |
28 |
Healthgain to everyone! Well, this is my last week before vacation. Lots to do, lots to do! Look out FLORIDA, here we come! ... with a vengeance! It really is my first real vacation EVER, so you can imagine how very excited I am. I will guess I'd have to say that I am doing ok with my healthgain. While I have not adhered to my goals, I am still losing weight. I am officially down by 35 lbs this year. I had gained about 5 back, so I had to RE-lose those. Ugh. I'm not starving, I am not excessively exercising. It all seems to be just right. Heh, who would have guessed I'd achieve a static level of behaviours and still be able to drop lbs. ME, the misbehaviour QUEEN? LOL! I guess it comes down to three things. 1. Eat 5 or more small meals every day. 2. Focus on protein (HIGH!) and fat (LOW!). 3. Sweat in some form every day. I have to tell you guys this... I got rave comments from my Zumba instructor. Mind you, who is perfectly trim, and wildly energetic. An absolute picture of health. She and I have become friends and like to talk after class. She says to me, "Well I think you look great! You are trim and healthy looking, and to me you have arrived." Gals, I gotta say... I think she needs glasses. Either that or she patronized me to the max. *I* think (know) I have about 25 more lbs to lose. And even then, I will never be able to be as ripped and cut as she is because I just have the skin issue to deal with... LOL! And uhhh no, not having surgery. Maybe not. Maybe... but maybe not. LOL. ... she made me feel good anyhow. I watched some kind of garbage on TV this weekend, "The Top (insert number) Best and Worst Beach Bodies of the Year" I saw some very good and some very bad celebrity bodies on there. It was funny, after watching about 2/3 of it, and being bored out of my mind (I never EVER watch TV) from sitting there too long, I had to just get up and turn it off. I didn't even care really, because its just ridiculous how so much emphasis is placed on the "perfect" bum, chest, tummy, hips, legs... etc. UGH. I got up from my bed (admittedly unclothed), and stood in front of the mirror. I thought "You know, I tend to be pretty hard on myself, maybe my Zumba instructor is at least half right." And I took a good long look, at all angles. There are real improvements. I can see muscles in my arms and legs, I can see flat where there used to be rolls. I actually have a calf muscle for the first time in my life! I may not have a "Best Beach Body" of the year, but I ain't doin' too bad for lil ol me. I am at Week 48. In 4 more weeks, that will be 52. That's an entire year! WOW. I am really amazed at myself, and for that matter, ANYONE... who can stick with it that long. My point of this whole entry is this... I was never able to stick to it in the past, and can attribute my ability to do so, entirely to this group. So yes, in response to figure's comment last week about Sara and her dedication to this group. THANK YOU. I honestly, in all sincerity, would NOT be at this level of health and fitness today without Wagon Jumpers. Anyway, I've been tanning and trying to get a good base so I don't get cooked like a french fry at the beach. Hehe, because I will definitely be covered in coconut oil. So, I gotta tell ya, I am feeling pretty good about my appearance, even with 25 lbs to go. Still not wearing a bikini on the beach though! I am fitting nicely into 10's these days, and some of the tops i bought for vacation were size Small. Mostly Mediums, but Small is cool! LOL. So even though I have missed the mark on attaining my "goals" - my ultimate goal is still on track. And its in auto-pilot mode, no extra effort required, and that's exactly where I had hoped I would find myself. YAY! Anyhow, enough raving about ME... I am going to say "CUT"! And this show is over. LOL! See you guys when I am back from FL. Healthgain wishes to everyone, and warm WV hugs... Warmer ones from sunny Florida! ~Julie |
|||
| Motivation | Wagon Jumpers - August 23 - 29, 2009 (3 Waiting List Spots Available) | Aug 27 2009 16:31 (UTC) |
11 |
Wow, the hallways in this school are echoing!
|
|||
| Motivation | Wagon Jumpers - August 23 - 29, 2009 (3 Waiting List Spots Available) | Aug 24 2009 15:12 (UTC) |
22 |
Good Morning Wagon Jumpers! Hope your weekend was healthgain. Mine was! I spent all day Saturday at the pool, and all day Sunday cleaning house and cooking some healthy stuff. The recipe exchange did get me thinking about how I was cooking before this little "sabatical" I am apparently on. I entered this recipe today, Crock Pot Beef Roast - this is what I cooked this weekend! I also want to thank all of you for the gentle nudges last week, sorry I missed out on posting. I am back to being "me" again, whew! Bleedtoblue, Peera, Zora, White Sakura - Welcome to the group! I hope to get to know each of you, and wish you the very best with your healthgain journey. Just one more shameless plug for the website we just launched. www.guidobrotherz.com Now, I'll leave you alone about it! LOL! Hope you have an amazing day! |
|||
| Motivation | Wagon Jumpers - August 23 - 29, 2009 (3 Waiting List Spots Available) | Aug 23 2009 16:14 (UTC) |
31 |
Good Sunday Morning All! I don't know what happened. All I can tell you is... I heard a very strange noise in my sleep yesterday morning, and then the alien let me out the door, and then I was at home in bed, in my very own pajamas. LOL! Kiddding! ... I will tell you really where I've been now... hehe. Our website is up and running! It really is an all-consuming power. Now I know why designers want the big dollars. It would be intensely lucrative! However, this is not a job for me. My rear literally HURTS. That is not even a joke. Not to be pious, but it makes sense why now, that webmasters are generally overweight. They never are out of their seat! This was a very difficult thing for me to sit and do, not that the work is so very tedious, but more that I can't sit still that long! BUT - glory be, it is finished. (Aside from the thought that it's a work in progress...), its up and going. Take a peek if you care to - www.guidobrotherz.com My apologies for missing my posting responsibility last week. As for the homework: I have been focusing on Zumba. Its my primary energy expenditure these days. I have had to lay off lifting, due to injuring my shoulder. (I may end up going for acupuncture and chiro, a massage would not be a bad thing either!) And as far as goals, I have pretty much lost the battle this round. I'm not giving up by any means, but will just take this next few weeks to rethink my agenda. For those who don't really know what Zumba does, click this interesting preview: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qwVdBH4vjLU and if you like that, you can find plently more on youtube! (My faves are the girls in Hickory, NC) I am still eating healthy, and still losing very slowly (the plateau seems to have been toggled by a bit of zig-zag calorie levels). Yet, I do agree that having specified goals is essential not just to achieving, but also to maintaining. I still have some ground to cover to get to where I want to be, so I will have reworked the plan by next goal-setting session. For the remainder of this one, I will maintain my current level of Zumba 3x/week, and making healthy food choices. HOMEWORK: (this week's!) This is an area I too need help with currently. Its one of those phases where I just don't feel like cooking. I find myself eating pre-prepared items like yogurt, Better'n eggs, tuna or peanutbutter sandwiches (on 12grain of course...), lean cuisine meals, protein bars and shakes, things like that. I even have finished off about a half box of cheerios. (Not UNhealthy, but not my normal choice for breakfast!), and of course salads, nuts and fruits. About all I have actually cooked in the last month would be a pot of blackbean chili, grilled chicken, a turkey burger or three, eggs and turkey sausage (breakfast is the most important meal, you know).... I am out of inspiration and ideas for what to cook. I suppose that has been lended from not having much time, and that my mind was focused on the computer work. BUT - time for me to get with the program. I am really intrigued by your dark greens addition, Sara. I too would wonder how to cook those! The only way I have ever learned is from my grandmother, where you douse the collards in bacon fat and fry them in a skillet! NOT the most healthy recipe! How about if you shred them up real thin, pop them into a pot with some green onion and garlic, and simmer them until tender? Maybe a little olive oil?? I will have to try a few ideas and let you know how that goes. My grandmother also cooked her spinach that way, and when it was served onto the plate, she would drizzle vinegar over it. I think I was about the only kid who ever liked spinach, and I still do. I mix a can of spinach in a can of tomato soup, and there you have tomato soup florentine. LOL! OK, time for a real recipe from me... I have to go do some lab work and run a few experiments. I'll be back on this one. Welcome to all the new members, I will catch up with you individually SOON! Carol - Lovin' the new photo! Hoping all of you have a healthgain weekend!
|
|||
| Motivation | Wagon Jumpers - August 9 - 15, 2009 (1 waiting list spot available) | Aug 11 2009 12:34 (UTC) |
18 |
CHECKIN: I just have a minute or two, and wanted to say Hi and Happy Healthgain. This summer has been consumed of late with website design, and because I am so inexperienced at it, its a trial and error game plan until I get it all correct. I can't wait to publish it! I have also hired a new person to work for me with my freight business. Training takes time and energy, but this will work out well, I can already see it. As for my goals, I am losing grip. I have to be honest. I missed the gym yesterday, due to the need to put time into design, and I have basically logged nil. I will make it to the gym the rest of the week, but I will get to lift only twice. Bummer. I have to stay focused though! Vacation is T minus 25 and counting. I have lost another 5 lbs, and hope to drop a few more by then. I don't know what I am complaining about!! I am losing again. I guess its just frustrating that I set goals and am not meeting them. Anyway, got to go for now. Take care all! And hope your day is healthgain. |
|||
| Motivation | Wagon Jumpers - August 2 - 8, 2009 (1 spot on waiting list available) | Aug 06 2009 00:50 (UTC) |
15 |
Hi Everyone, hope your week is going well! HOMEWORK: I'd like to introduce you all to our good friend Meg, also known as msmeg1984. I failed to ask you one curious question I've had since I first saw you here. Is 1984 the year you were born? If so, that means you're.... at least 24! WOW, you could almost be my daughter. Hehehe! Anyway, someone make me stay on topic... LOL! - Meg was born in St. Louis, Missouri and still lives in the general area because she really loves it there! She lives in the rural outskirts of the metro area. Meg works for a city government, planning large festivals and events. I would so very much love to have your job! I've done some event planning, and the thrill when it all goes off is so amazing. She lives with her boyfriend and they've been dating for 8 1/2 years. I really hope her dream will someday soon come true, she hopes he'll finally propose to her! I'm rooting for you, girl! Meg hasn't had any children thus far, but her female golden retriever named Harley who is 9 months old is full of energy and keeps her busy. Meg's favorite dinner recipe is one that she has suggested on here many times! Its Carribean Jerk Chicken Skewers. Its a delish recipe and she really enjoys grilling in the summertime, they usually grill out 2-3 nights a week when the weather is nice. I don't blame you for that! Her healthgain journey started in January 2008. She lost about 20 lbs between January and June, then plateaued until about October. She started NROLFW at that time and then in November, she injured her foot and was unable to workout for about a month. At about that time, the puppy came into her life, and she couldn't get to the gym as she had in the past, and it took some time for her to get through that phase. I am sure it helped that the puppy eventually grew and she was able to find more time as a result. Her biggest event of the year is July 4th, which the craziness involved with it finally came to pass. This meant she would be able to recommit herself to getting in shape... I really like her attitude, to her it didn't necessarily mean losing "x" number of lbs, but in her words, she "just wants to have a nice body!" She plans to continue with the weights in order to gain some nice muscles, and I know she can do it! I really appreciate her insight through this life truth... "Life is what you make of it! Nothing happens if you just sit by and watch. You need to take an interest in the outcome and steer the results the way you want them!" I could not agree more! It's so nice to get to know you Meg! I hope everyone here has a chance to do this, because it really is such a warm-fuzzy feeling to get a little glimpse of who people really are. Hope everyone has a healthgain evening! |
|||
| Motivation | Wagon Jumpers - August 2 - 8, 2009 (1 spot on waiting list available) | Aug 04 2009 20:51 (UTC) |
21 |
Go Sara, Go Sara, Go Sara!
|
|||
| Motivation | Wagon Jumpers - August 2 - 8, 2009 (1 spot on waiting list available) | Aug 03 2009 22:26 (UTC) |
29 |
Whoo hooo!! Tangible goods... LOL! Thanks Sara, I am flattered. CHECKIN: Getting a little frustrated. Summer is usually the easiest time for me to focus on health because I can get outside. Somehow the summer is half gone, and I find myself into a 6 week plateau. I suppose the good news is, I've not gained. And learning to maintain is a good thing. Yet, I am still not where I want to be. I am only about half way there. In the past when I have gotten to these points, I kinda just threw in the towel, and said "oh well, I almost made it....", or "at least I made SOME progress..." I don't want to be that girl again this time. While I am a little miffed with my situation, I can't be upset with me really. I have done nothing to sabotage what I have accomplished. I am still eating well, exercising, and aside from my lack of logging (which I committed to as a goal, and have miserably failed), I do not feel I am off track. It's not like I am sitting down eating ice cream or binging on pastas or candy. I am still not even having "fries with that." (There's a country song there somewhere...) In fact, I dont even eat out, except for a choice meal out with BF when we finally get together. I don't know what's wrong really, why I have levelled off here, other than to succumb to the old notion that "my body has been happy here before".... I intend to do some research on this. I will post my findings! I think, Sara, that this weeks topic is going to be fun!! Thanks for thinking of it again. I do have a busy week ahead, a busy month in fact... but will stay dedicated here as much as is possible. I'll even let you all in on a little secret... I am designing a website where we will be selling licensed T-shirts of all sorts. We hope to launch this weekend, and I am hoping for an opportunity to offer a shameless plug for it here in CC!! Looking forward to getting to know each of you a little better! Catch you guys real soon, keep up the healthgain! |
|||
| Motivation | Wagon Jumpers - July 26 - August 1, 2009 (Closed) | Jul 29 2009 21:27 (UTC) |
12 |
Hi all, Not much time here. So sorry. Congrats on the move Sara, I know how tough it is! Hope you settle in soon. I am with Meg. I am right on with the workouts, but not my logging. I know I am eating right, but just don't have the time to log it. Maybe next round. Have to run... catch all of you later. Remember - healthgain is worth it, and so are you! Healthgain to all, |
|||
 |
New journal post Happy Thanksgiving!!! Woot! Woot! by snowfence 23:54 |
|
New journal post Thanksgiving by njakamarilyn 23:53 |
 |
New forum message Vegetable and/or Bean Salads by nardz4 23:49 |
|
New journal post Time Capsule by anewdawn 23:48 |