**Maintaining Group**

Hi everyone,

I wanted to start a new maintaining group and hope some people will join:)

  After gaining some weight after my Eating Disorder and lost some the healthy way I am on the road to maintaining my new weight. 

We can discuss workouts, foods, books, movies recipes, and what is going on in our lives. 

Please do not mention weight numbers as this may be discouraging for others.  If you happen to gain or lose some weight while in this group; that is perfectly okay. --we all have our ups and downs.  

Please join and let's get chatting :)

Hey all. Hope everyone is doing well and taking care. Happy Sept 1 and start of fall.

For me I moved into my place so have been very busy trying to accomplish things like get a bed/furniture. Then things like the cable people etc. I am not sleeping but have been doing so much which is amazing to me and even meeting friends for lunch etc. With my pain condition these things are hard and I did not do them for a very long time. I am scared of setting my condition off yet happy I have been able to do in life. Just trying to take a day at a time.

Chrissy glad orientation went well. So when does class start? Any more baking? I wish I did not even think of calories but they are engraned after so many years. I remember a treatment provider saying why do I do it? People who don't she said there bodies don't fluctuate that much. It is true I guess. Like I said before I give you so much credit for being so independent though I am sorry for the lack of support from family.

Derek first year of college. What do you think you are going to school for? It is ok if you don't know though. Even if you were sedentary I still think you need more. I am sedentary and and old lady and eat way more. I am not a lucky one who can eat a lot cause in the past I gained on way lower then I am eating now. I do feel I trained my body to burn a lot of calories. I did that by one accepting my set point but two eating a high calorie diet to have a fast metabolism. I wish you were not so hard on yourself and could see the positives in yourself. Can you name some on here? I can relate to feeling like others are better but I think it is about fidning what you are good at. That is fun you went to Ikea. I should go there. I am not good at putting together furniture but bought some things today that need that done but I am going to pay someone to do it.

Dancer hope school is going well with you. How are you physically feeling? I hope you are not sick still

Carly hope you are ok too

Hi everyone!

Chrissy- how are you hun?  I am glad to hear orientation went well for you.  College will be difficult in part because I put too much pressure on myself and taking more classes than I normally have in the past. I hardly have any time to do anything other than college and work and doing things for myself in between.  The antibiotic helped the infection and feel better!  I am so glad your hubby found a temporary job and that the hurricane wasn't too bad. 

Do clases start this week for you?  Any baking lately?

Carly- I hope Irene didn't hit your area too hard!  I am so glad you are eating more and giving your body what you need.  That is real progress right there.   See, isn't funny how the body balances out and you are back to where you were even though you are eating more. 

Your period will return if you keep eating more and make sure you are incorporating at least 30% fat in your daily eating.  I would hate to see you suffer from health problems (such as osteoperosis) and other problems in not having a period.  You are far too young to put your body through that.

Congrats on your success sotry as being chosen!  So what do you want to do after high school...what are your goals?

Just as a reminder please, please do not post weights.  You can post weights in other forums on this site or in your weight log.  I mention that in my thread at the very tope.  It can be discouraging for others and really not necessary. Thanks :)

Abbi-Hey hun!!  How are you?  It sounds like you are adjusting well out in your new place and area and already making friends.  It is so true good friends are really hard to come by.  I am so glad you are no longer staying at the hotel and can now move into your new place! When I first moved here it tooka while to get unpacked and find some new furniture since I got rid of some old stuff and then have the cable and pool guy come by.  ugh.  Finally now that I have settled in it is nice to not have so many visitors pop by to set up  or deliver something.   Did you get the calbe hooked up?

Hahaha....I love the joke!  I remember you saying that a long time ago on the old forums.  If I were ever married (which I can't picture for a long time or ever) I would need a separate home!   Even though I have been in relationships I have learned while I am in them that I need my alone time and a lot of it.  My alone time is so very important to me and I love being independent too. 

How is your pain?  I really hope it eases up and you are okay. I am so sorry you haven't been sleeping better.  Do you take any medication for that?  I am not sure if I asked you this before :-/  I am feeling better...the antibiotic seemed to take care of the infection and my energy is back up.  I just get those so frequently and when I do it hits me hard. 

How are other things?  Are you working out there?  How did you meet friends so quickly?  I

Derek-  Hey how are you!?!  I saved the best for last :)  I know how hard it is to come on here when you have so much homework!  I am feeling the pressure of that.

OMG I just realised you are taking 17 units!!  How many classes is that...4 or 5?  So you like your teachers too? --that is awesome :) .  Having a great professor can make even the most boring subjects fun!  Oh, god I totally can relate to how difficult math is, because I am experiencing that right now.  I am doing very well and understanding the material.   I bet you are excited for psychology and that was one of my most interesting classes.  Especially when you take the personality tests, such as the Myers Briggs test and Jahari test.  You can also check them out online for fun.  Oh man Chemistry....that is a hard class. I love learning about life and how our bodies function on a cellular level. 

You are so lucky you can not work and go to school full-time.  I wish I had that luxury but at my age well...I am forced to work.  lol.  That is pretty cool you visit yoru friends at the supermarket and I am sure they are happy to see you:)  Do you think you will work in the summer or take classes then too? 

Well from what I saw on FB it looks like you got your Pumpkin Spice Latte!!  :)  Our are doesn't launch them until the 6thof September which is earlier than last year I think.  I wonder why your area came out with it sooner?   I am excited for all the fall drinks to come out ...I also like the pepermint mocha andof course the Eggnog lattes...yummy!  I am more excited about the products we are coming out with like the coffee mugs and the coffee beans.  Oh I love the fall! :)

Ya I am the same way with people and situations...I think it just how we are and it defines our personalities.  My dad always said....when beginning a new class (esp. college) andit is a subject you aren't good at find the smartest guy in the class andmake him your friend.  It is so true Derek!  They will only help you succeed and facing that someone is better than you at something only makes you stronger.  You are good at something that that other person isn't and vice versa.  --we all have our strengths and weaknesses.  I am glad you feel better after attending a few classes such as math and science!  That is great!  Do you think you will join the clubs?

I hope your brother settles down and finds his identity.  High School is a time for some people to go through major social changes andidentity changes as well.  Even though it is frustrating for you, it is actually extremely frustrating for him--even though he may not admit it.  It makes sense that he would try to push people away, because it is really his way of coping with things and handeling them.  It's just a coping mechanism and nothing personal.  I am sure he does the same to your Mom.  I am sure he will figure it out andit may take some time even though it can be hugely annoying!  When my sister went through her HS phases she was unbearable to be around so I kept my distance.  What grade is he in?

Wooohooo to IKEA!!!!   I bet you had so much fun!!  haha.  My mom andI said we could spend the entire day there too.  When you walk through the store it feels like it just keeps going and going and going and never ends but at the same time you don't want it to end :)  Did you end up getting anything there?

That is too funny Enzo loves clean sheets too!! hahaha!  What is it with animals and clean sheets?  lol.  If I pull the sheets off the bed my cats will run from upstairs to come play in them!  Andwhen I lay them on the floor in a pile my cats will romp around and try to hide in them.  It is the silliest thing. 

Oh no!!!!!!!!!  My mouth just dropped open reading that you won't be taking Enzo.  I am so, SO sorry he can't move with you and I know how distrubing and upsetting that may feel.  You have grown really close to him.  Do you plan to go visit your step-dad often?  Do you see him often?

  I also know how you feel about beeing settled in your current place andnot wanting to shuffle things around by moving.  I felt the same right before I moved. ESpecailly when the packers came and put everything in boxes and then the movers came and our house was empty...it felt very unsetteling!  --like a tornado just came through and messed everything up.  It will be okay and take some time to adjust to moving.  Moving is a huge change in our lives and it is a huge stressor.  It was for me...along with University beginning.  It's like one thing after another. 

Well, I am glad you are open and honest about your eating habits even though they weren't the best. --I am taking it when you say "sketchy" you underate(?).  I know it is hard to overcome self-cosiousness and we all suffer from it to some regard, but remember most of the time we create thse "demonds" and negative self image.  You have to think positively and know you are healthy and have come so far from where you used to be.  I have a decent size stomach and have a buldge when I sit down.  It's about 2.5-3 inches thick.  I really don't think about it until you mentioned it.  lol.   To be honest when I am out and I see other people I really don't look at their stomachs or bulge....I look at them, their movements, their gestures, body language, etc.  And if I do happen to see their stomach and it has bulge I just let it go and not analyze it.  It is more noticeable to you because maybe you create such thoughts in yoru head as it being worse than it is.  You look amazing Derek and have come so far, so try not to beat yourself up too much ok :)

The key to this equation is that you don't have to compensate anything.  You can train your body to live sedentary or with moderate exercise, and eat what you want, however much you want without restricting and maintain your weight.  I do it, and therefore I know it is possible for you to.  But I had to train my body and mind and by doing this I just applied "normal eating".  I hardly workout (or have the time to) lately and I eat just as much (if not more) than I did when I do workout and I still maintain.  I even lost weight by eating more and not working out when I first moved here.  It's weird.  And did you know that clinical studies prove that working out does not make you thin! Here is the article. http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/18/magazine/18 exercise-t.html .  I also learned this in one of my college classes, fitness and wellness.  And in my case, exercising only increases my appetite and causes me to eat more. --it seriously makes me ravenous!  Anyways, just know that if you can't workout that much it is not the end of the world and it will be okay. 

I hope your studies are going well and the homefront is too.  Stop by in here when you can I love hearing from you!!  :) 

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Sorry for the delay in posting.  The professors keep adding more to the homework load and I have hardly any time to post. I miss you guys though and wish I could post more!  :-D

I have been doing well and the medication seemed to help my infections and feeling better again :) 

Well I hope everyone is well and healthy and safe!  Happy day everyone :)

Hey dancer. This thread seems slow. I know everyone is busy but I hope all is well with everyone too. Also everyone has a nice holiday weekend. Fall is in the air so to speak.

Dancer yes the cable guy came and finally got a bed etc. I have a short term lease where I am just over 5 months which I am glad cause not thrilled with this place though it could be worse so don't want to jinx it. It is so hard finding a place in a new state so at least it will give me time to explore while not being in a hotel which costs a lot. I am right with you on the roommate issue. Hopefully if you decide to get married one day you will find a guy who will also give you space. I never want to get married so it will not be an issue but even when I date someone serious a huge factor is giving me space. I can't handle needy people so to speak. That is great you made friend at your job. Laughter is good medicine I say.

My pain is bad right now but I had a busy day. I met 2 friends for awhile. I actually knew these people cause I used to live around an hour away for almost a year a few years ago. I did meet one new person where I live though. As for my pain control well yes I am on a lot of meds but am off as needed meds like narcotics cause they don't help the pain. I am glad you are feeling better. I'm sorry to hear about your thyroid problems and I can relate to not liking new doctors. Hopefully though you can find one that helps you. I think the best referals for doctors are from patients who have seen them. It sounds like school is keeping you busy but you are also being social which is great.

Well to everyone else have a good night and Happy Labor Day

This thread is slow :(  where did everyone go? 

Abbi-  Hi! Hope you got a good nights sleep. I am glad you got the cable hooked up and got a bed and found a temporary place until you find something you love.  I remember having to sleep on my air mattress when I was in transition of moving because all our furniture was being shipped. lol.  Do you have any shows you like or watch?

I hope you are reight about the guy situation it is so hard to find even a date these days.  Plus it doesn't help that I am super picky when it comes to dating and boyfriends.  I really do hate dating anymore.  I honestly can say I do not want to get married.  I have actually been married before and it wasn't for me and I had to divorce.  I really cannot picture myself being so legally bound with a guy and if it doesn't work out it can be so messy---it just isn't for me.  I don't mind if a guy misses me and expresses that, but I also need my space.  So glad you understand!  Well, my friend is kinda sad I couldn't hang out with him but he will just have to get over it.  He wanted to take me to a restaurant and he doesn't know that I ama very anxious about eating at certain places.  I just don't like to eat out a big chain restaurants mainly because of the unknown content they throw in food and I don't like not knowing how sanitary places are and what is "going on behind the kitchen." So ya, hopefully we can hang out and do something other than just sit and eat...like go see a movie, grab an ice cream or something. 

I am so sorry to hear about the pain.  Are you going for treatment out there too?   But I am glad you have friends you do know around your area and can hang out with them.  That is great!  It is really hard for me because I moved here not knowing anyone. 

I do not have much of an option regarding doctors since I temporarily do not have my Starbucks insurance becasue of the move and not working for a while. I am thankful I have my University health insurance which is pretty darn good!  The doctor seems very knowledable and very glad she knows about thyroid conditions and works with patients that have them.  Having a doctor who understands thyroids is hard to come by!  There have been some instances where I sometimes know more about them than the doctors do.  but I will have my old doctor give her a call if she gives me any hell and if I don't get anywhere with her.  The does I am on know is working for me and my weight has finally stabilized and I would hate to lower the dose and feel crappy again. 

Anyways, what are you up to this Labor day weekend?  What do you do in your spare time? 

I hope you have a great night and it is a relaxing one :) 

~Lace

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As for me I have just worked and studying and spent some time with my parents and talked to a friend.  I got home from work and went in the pool for a little bit and then ran some errands.  it is going to be a movie night for me and not sure what I will watch :)

Hope everyone else is well!

Hey everyone! Sorry, busy weekend.

Abbi- I'm glad you're moved in finally! Man, how awful that must've been to living in a hotel room! I'm sorry about your sleep habits. All I can say is that my sleep is a bit disturbed as well. So I can relate :/ Well, I know I want to go into the medical field. I'm taking stuff that *generally* is a prerequisite to a medical degree. I've considered nursing for awhile. Got a lot more research and talking with people to do though. You think? Because I swear, my metabolism will never be like that of my friends. I really really don't want to gain more (assuming my set point is up higher). In all honesty, I have a very hard time seeing anything positive about me. I'm not trying to look for attention or anything. I really cannot see that side of me :/ As far as I see it, I'm not really good at anything. I always manage to screw everything up. :/ Haha I wish you and Lacey were closer…we'd spend the whole day at Ikea! :P Just be warned, it's sooooo tempting…you'll probably leave there with more than you were looking for. Even if you're not buying furniture, just to see the latest styles and how stuff is arranged is enough to give you some great ideas.

Lacey- Hey! Awww you're too sweet :) I'm doing pretty well. Had a lonnnng day today. So my mom got the keys to our house early, she decided to rent the truck today. So we emptied out both of our storages and moved some heavy furniture in (we all have achy limbs and busted backs lol) 

Yep, you heard it right! 17 units :) Well, it's technically 4, but when you count the mini online library course I have to take, it's 5 (1 unit). So in all, I'm taking chemistry, calculus, english, psychology, and library. All my teachers are very cool. I'm soooo glad, cuz I was so worried about that :) Funny you should mention math…thats probably the one class (next to chem) I spend the most time on. Psychology is a lot of reading and therefore notetaking. But with chem, you've got write-ups, readings, problems, etc. In math, you've got notes to review and lonnnnngg math problems to do. I'm actually sorta looking forward to my first "set" of exams. I want to know if what I'm doing is working. I'm sooo excited for psych! Funny, we were talking about those tests the other day. I'd love to take em! I'm really curious about that kind of stuff. Ugh, I couldn't even get INTO biology! I was waitlisted for chem for a few days, but I got in once people dropped out or didn't show up. I will have to take bio at some point. Speaking of bio, I received news that I got a 5 on my AP bio test! WOOOOOO! :D

Ohhh I know! I consider myself very lucky! I'm so glad to have this opportunity. And it's about to get better…starting after the move, I can walk to school. I won't have to drive and squeeze into a tiny spot (and risk having my car abused by evil college drivers). As for next summer, it's tough to say right now.. I may take classes if I can't get into certain ones next semester. Or I may use that opportunity to travel and visit universities (although ideally it would be DURING school…) After all, after next year, I have to transfer elsewhere.

OMG yes! I'm so stoked on that!! :D My friend and I are gonna get another one tomorrow lol I used to think they didn't come out till October..I'm so glad I asked! Isn't the peppermint mocha offered annually? I swore that the starbucks I frequent has that syrup on display (they put them all on a high shelf for everyone to see). I'm looking forward to the fall. I so wish I could visit a place (like Colorado) where you can truly see the effects of fall in the form of fall foliage! It's been a dream of mine for quite some time.

I've always been that way..and I'm very well that the fear of being the "idiot" has definitely held me back. I've passed over so many opportunities because of it. Haha I like that plan! But it is sometimes difficult to talk to them..I hate feeling dumb (then again, who does?!) I know it's such a childish way of thinking - the need to be better than someone at something. Wish I knew why I felt that way…lol I still have to look into those clubs though..

Ohh man, me too :/ I don't want him to get bugged by other because of it. And he seems to be getting more and more extreme with it. Just the other day, when I was dressed up in my hospital uniform, he told me that he wanted me to become a surgeon to help him with his sex-change surgery. All I could think was 'WTFFFFFFFF????!!!' I can only imagine how he feels too. But at the same time, I'm tempted to just let him fail miserably. I've known him long enough that he has to have some kind of extreme action to set him straight again (no pun intended lol) He's just starting his freshman year in high school. From my experience and the experience of others, I've learned that the impression you make during freshman year can really make or break your 4 years at high school.

Haha I had a great time at Ikea! If I won the lottery, I'd definitely spend a ton of money remodeling the house (after buying my BMW of course ;) ) We got a bunch of stuff..a new bed frame for my mom, these really cool chairs for my brother and I, a doggie bed, some towels, and lamps.

I know right! I know in the case of Enzo, I'm sure he wants to make the sheets smell like him again (like marking his territory :P) As for your kitties, they're probably just being silly. :P

I know :( I can't even express the sadness and anger I have. I mean, we'll probably be getting him on the weekends, but it's just not the same. So every once and awhile, one of us will pick him up and bring him home for the weekend. I am happy I'll still at least occasionally get to see him…but like I said, it's still not the same. :/

That's such a good way to describe it! I hate how unsettled I feel right now. Walking around my old empty house was very weird as well..not only was it just strange to see it empty, but it brought back so many memories…some good (like those of my golden retriever, Misha :[ ), and some not sot so good (like my ED days). It must be very hard to have to adapt to not only a new school, but also a new home at the same time! At least I'm moving to a place that's still somewhat familiar to me.

Yeah, I meant I underate when I said sketchy. lol I realize most if not all of this is all in my head. It's sooo hard to change my thoughts though..how did you manage to overcome this? lol I realize that's probably not something many people pay attention to. But I do all the time (on myself anyway). I constantly pinch my stomach, check my wrists and legs, etc. It's almost automatic. Ohh man, I cant wait for the day that I can truly accept that statement :)

What exactly do you mean by "normal eating"? (Silly question, I know..but I really am wondering). Wow and you lost weight too?? How the heck does that work??? Very interesting study too. Although it's so frustrating that the body is so counterintuitive! :/

Great to hear from you!! :)

Hey everyone, sorry that I've seemed to have neglected the forum! I'm so busy prepping for school & beginning some college prep work. Boo. :( Anyways, I've been doing well, I survived Irene & have been having a good last few days of freedom...

Ha Derek I was just at Ikea the other night! I had to get a new desk & man...I'd totally live there if I could. All of their furniture is absolutely gorgeous. BTW - You took AP Bio??! I'm taking it this year! How's the class?

I have my road test next week. Ugh. I already took it once and failed...the guy was soo mean, lol, that when he got out of the car I totally just broke down...but I'm hoping I'll do a lot better this time around. I NEED my lisence SOO badly. I'm tired of relying on my parents for rides, especially to the gym all of the time. I feel bad sometimes asking so reguarly because it seems like a nuisance...

Oh and incase you were all wondering...doing great on the calorie surplus. :) On average I eat 1800 on sedentary days, 2300 on active ones. Yesterday I had a massive day of mucking stalls at my barn again so I was more near 3000. I went out to eat with my best friend so I practically ate everything, lol.

My gym is closed today and tomorrow for Labor Day repairs and cleaning. I have no idea what I'm going to do. I have workout videos but due to Irene we had to rip up most of the carpet, leaving the space where I'd do the video cramped and not so comfortable. :/ Hmmm. Maybe I'll have to resort to my mom's ratty old elliptical machine...

Hi guys... I was wondering if I may join if I'm not completely in maintenance mode yet? Just cause you guys are so awesome. I have 2.5 weeks left until university starts again and I wanted to still keep a small deficit (100-300) until then while I'm still with my family, before going full-on maintenance.

That okay or do I have to wait?

Nice to see more responses though I understand everyone is busy which is also good.

Antibinge welcome. For myself I think it is fine you join as long as you have the goal of health. I am confused were you on weight loss? Do you need to be keeping a small defecit? Are you at a healthy weight and eating adequate? You start school late though maybe it is not if you are out of the US.

Carly good luck on the road test. I seriously don't understand why people who work with the public have to be mean. I thought I remember you saying you were impacted by the hurricaine. Is your home witha lot of damage? Is your weather ok now? Maybe just go for a nice walk.

Derek I think you would do great in the medical field. You seem to have a lot of compassion and also your history and battles can help others just based on your own experience. I think though to help others you should be in a healthy state so that can be a great motivator. I am sorry you feel so bad about yourself. Do you know why you do? I have made so many mistakes in my life. I seem to make ongoing poor choices that repeat themselves. From what I have learned I think instead of focusing on the negatives of that you can use the istakes to move forward and not repeat them. No one is perfect. I do feel you focus too much on your outside in terms of you feel that will help you get to your goals in life or make friends etc when in reality it is making it a barrier and more of a wall up. Am I making sense? Your focus on the ed and weight etc is making it harder to focus on making friends,career,hobbies I could go on.

Dancer hi. You know I don't really watch much tv it just on as noise. I sometimes will watch like reality shows or little Law and Order. I am not up on the new shows that are out though. I did not know you were married. I can relate to the dating issue. I am also very picky though from past relationships you would think not. I never thought about the sanitary issue though I did in hotels. That creeps me out. Yes I am doing pain treatment here but it is not clear cut as often it does not help or it makes me worse so it is scary. I just have to hold to hope that one will benefit but also be cautious. I know it is hard to meet people and I feel especially true as one ages. It sounds like you are making steps though. Have you every looked on meet up they have groups etc and even one for new to the area? Glad your doctor seems knowledgable. Not only in thryoid issues but in general a good doctor is hard to come by. Have seen many dozen with my condition and travel to many top hospitals like Cleveland Clinic etc and still have seen so many clueless ones. Sometimes I say I need a psychiatrist to deal with my physical doctors cause they cause me so much stress. It just takes 1 though

Happy Labor Day all

Original Post by abbi333:

Antibinge welcome. For myself I think it is fine you join as long as you have the goal of health. I am confused were you on weight loss? Do you need to be keeping a small defecit? Are you at a healthy weight and eating adequate? You start school late though maybe it is not if you are out of the US.

Hi, yes indeed my goal is health! I was losing weight, and still am very slowly. I am at a healthy weight (right in the midpoint of healthy BMI actually) and I am eating adequate. I wanted to continue my small deficit until university starts (in the UK) because while normally I struggle with stress eating and binge eating when I am at university, I lose weight with ease while I am with my family, so I guess I want to make the most of that before I return. There is also the case that at the moment my brother and I are trying to get my mother to be healthier. She smokes alot, and while she cooks healthy meals, she eats very little at meals and gorges on junk in between. So as a family we decided that while we are all together we will keep the junk away and have healthy meals and snacks. This of course does not mean I have to keep a deficit, but it helps and like I said, I want to make the most of it before going back to university. It's just 2 and a half more weeks. I also admit that my apettite isn't great when I am at home doing nothing most of the day! Does that make sense?

Welcome!! :) I think it's fine if you join, antibinge. Your goals sound a lot like mine!

My house actually isn't so bad due to the hurricane. We had to rip out the carpet in the basement because we had flooding down there...but other than that, we're in good shape. My road was entirely flooded in waist-deep water, but it receded pretty quickly. Thank God I didn't have any other issues.

Ahh..school begins tomorrow for me. Boo.

Original Post by carlymariex:

Ahh..school begins tomorrow for me. Boo.

 

Heh, I'm actually really looking forward to going back to uni. Good luck on your senior year :)

Hi everyone just popping in to say hello and happy labor day!  If you haven't please read my posts that I posted a few days ago.  I will post later I have a busy day ahead of me. Catch you all later :)

hey lacey. how ya doin girlie? school is going to suck the life out of me, i can see it now.

carly..what will you be studying? how old are you? i failed my driving test once as well. don't worry. you'll do fine the next time. what are your goals for weight/calories/nutrition/health?

antibinge:hey girlie. glad to hear health is your primary concern. what is your current bmi? what do you stufy? 

abbi: when people don't post here I forget to post because it is at the bottom of the "maintianing" forum. oops. so how are you doing food wisE? calories are ingrained in my brain as well! they don't affect me as much as they once did but I am still aware of them. 

Well, I'm a senior in high school at the moment..woopee! I'm 16..young in my class. Right now my goals are to maintain my current weight, which is about 135ish? Not sure. I went for my yearly physical last week & my doctor told me that I really really really shouldn't lose anymore weight...so maintaining is definately my biggest goal. On my lazy days, I eat 1800, and on active ones I eat 2000+. That seems to be working for me right now and I'll probably increase more in the future, but I'm still getting used to more food.

My goals for this school year specifically health-wise are to make it to the gym whenever I can (when I get my lisence I REALLY want to begin going BEFORE school. I'd love it) & keep bringing healthy lunches and my maintaining regimen. I began maintaining really over the summer so doing it during school should be pretty much the same. :)

carly..that makes sense. How much weight did you lose? how tall are you? wow, you are young. I was young too..graduated at 17. what do you typically pack for lunch? or will you pack rather? 

Hi hi.

Chrissy, as of yesterday my BMI is 21.5. I'm assuming by stufy you meant study? I study comp sci, it kinda sucks. I'll be starting my second year (hopefully). I did my first year twice, due to some issues plus it was hard :/. So I see you've started law school? That's pretty awesome. Hope you are enjoying it, besides the sucking-the-life-out-of-you thing. I just found out my term schedule and I feel like this year is going to be sucking the life out of me too, but I can't imagine law school! Do you take part in any activities or societies? I kind of feel I am being overly ambitious with everything I'm signing up for... but I really want to do it all. Hows the married life? Do you guys get alot of time together or are you really busy? Eat meals together? Does he ever cook for you?

Carly, you're trying for your drivers license? Heh, I'm 20 and still no license... No lessons even. Really need to take care of that sometime. Too much time and effort (not to mention money) required so I keep putting it off. Maybe next summer... Also, I'd like to say, I maintain around the same amount of calories you say (1800 on lazy day, 2000+ on active), but I think with your activity you could get away with eating more even on lazy days (I consider a lazy day not even walking to the market or something).

OOOh if we're talking about packed lunches... I love thinking about what packed lunches to take to uni. Past two years I've pretty much stuck to a large sandwich and a mini salad squeezed into the other half of my lunchbox. This year I want to try and get more creative though. I'm thinking filling salad meals (tofu & avocado seem to be on my mind), wraps with leftover stirfy, quinoa salad, bean burgers (I think these would make a good snack too, sans the bun), slices of pizza (I buy a pre-made base and top however I like), and homemade sushi... sorry that question wasn't directed at me, but I thought I'd answer anyway .

antibinge....whats your name? feel free to not say if it is too personal. yes, law school is tough the first year but i am  confident i can make it work. i worked two jobs as an undergrad and still worked out, had friends, etc, i havent joined anything yet b/c it is all still new and we have barely started. lunches...ive been packing a sandwichh, baby caorrots, cheez its,  and an apple from the law school...cals are predictablen so it is easy to pack without thinking. i like not thinking. lol

Chrissy, sorry I'm weird about writing my name. I don't mind telling you guys, I just don't want it on the visible internet, if that makes sense.

I dunno if this sounds weird, but I actually *like* thinking about food/calorie-counts (though I only guesstimate). I don't like having to think about it sometimes, like having to think of a dinner to make for other people, but when it's just for me, I love thinking/planning. It's kinda fun, until I get tired of it...and then a few days later it's fun again!

I lost about 40ish lbs. So yeah my body is kind of in shock, as my doctor puts it...thus I haven't had a period in several months. :/ I'm 5'7 and the 3rd youngest in my grade.

For lunch I nearly ALWAYS have a salad in a Tupperware. And I also add chicken to it, or the past night's leftovers (I've added some pretty crazy things to my salads for protein sources and to get rid of leftovers!). I also eat a granola bar and some fruit. Thinking about making a bigger lunch/packing a snack for the morning too. Usually I bring sandwiches other days when I don't bring a salad...I never buy lunch. The only healthy option at my school is whole wheat pasta...which isn't bad, but the salad bar is chock full of those oily, creamy dressings. Ick. It'd be easier to buy but I'm definately not going to stop bringing my lunch.

Yeah I'm trying for my lisence! Going next week. Already failed once but I'm confident that I'll do a lot better this time around.