Professional Moms... let's group together!

I have other groups online with working Moms... they help me find cool things to do with our 4 year old... help me keep up with my scrapbooking.  But I would love to get into a group of other mothers that also work full time outside of the home... and are trying to lose weight. 

I respect SAHMs... but it's a different perspective to have to pack lunches, work a full day, make dinners on the go and find time to work out as well. 

Here's a bit about me... and hopefully there will be other professional Moms wanting to team up to get rid of some extra weight!

33, 5'5", CW 168; GW 145.  Married x6.5 years; we have a 4 year old daughter.  I work in healthcare 5 days a week (8-6 M-Th; 8-12 on Fri).

 

Hi, I'm back.  No, I didn't go anywhere, just absent mentally :)

 

I did stick to the challenge.  I spent 20 minutes on the treadmill (2 mph at 10% incline) three times and did strength training twice.  I am also trying to walk at least 10,000 steps every day on top of all that.  It's starting to pay off - last night I walked to the grocery store (good for the environment *and* me) and it is straight uphill coming home, and this time it didn't feel so bad!  Now when I can push the stroller home without feeling I'm going to die, I know I will have accomplished something (stroller + kids = 60lbs).

This week, I am trying to do everything I did last week.  Then next week I will start to increase the intensity of my workouts. 

 

Welcome niccimax!

 

No cool trips planned here - this weekend we are going camping in the mountains, but that is it.  DH is in school until late August, so we're stuck. 

 

Last week my son almost amputated his right pinky finger in a door.  Freaked me out.  I was at work when it happened - daycare tried to call me and my front desk put them on hold and forgot about them.  Arrrrrgh.  So they tried my husband, who was home but had been up working all night...without any sleep he went down and took him to the ER to get put back together. 

Meanwhile, none of my colleagues did anything to help me get my work done (I was already picking up slack for others) so I could go be with my son...in fact they waltzed off to lunch while I had to work through mine.  Finally at 4:30 I announced that everything was under control and I was going home to take care of my family.  (and thinking go ahead and fire me because there is no way I am taking no for an answer!).

 

OK...morning coffee kicking in and I have to visit the bathroom

 

 

Update on the solar cooker:  it works, max temperature achieved is 265 degrees, enough to cook food in a reasonable time without worry of food spoilage.  The problem is that the insulation is insufficient to keep it warm unless it is pointed directly at the sun, which means tweaking the positioning every hour or so.  My hope was to use it as a crockpot so I could come home to cooked food!  Working on some modifications...I included a link to the design in my original post for those interested.  I also suggest "Solar Energy Projects for the Evil Genius" if you are a geek about this stuff...although a lot of the projects are not doable unless you have at least a working knowledge with circuits (which I do not).

 

Someone also asked about Weight Watchers....I would be happy to answer any questions.  The "system" is basically calorie counting...foods are assigned points based on calories, fiber and fat content (there is a formula).  The big difference is that you get dinged for really fatty foods and rewarded for eating low calorie high fiber foods, so you get to eat a bit more if you do it "right".  Once you get the hang of the point system it is a lot less cumbersome than keeping track of calories.  However, the main benefit is the support and encouragement offered at the weekly meetings.  I need the accountability and structure to keep going.  It's not cheap but I found it personally worth it because I was getting nowhere on my own. 

Back to work.

Sounds like everyone is doing fairly well.  Sorry copper-- a train in Alaska sounded somewhat more romantic .  Thanks for the nutrition tips nicci.  Have fun in Mexico bran.  Glad WW is working for you spook.  I've known others that have had success with it.

I've been doing well.  Focusing more on the exercise part of losing weight than the counting of calories.  Have found a few ways to fit in time (waking 30 minutes early; walking/lifting weights at work x30 min during lunch).  Nothing has happenned everyday or everytime... but it's definitely more than it was

Hmmm...  a new challenge?  I'd love to hear some ideas... my current difficult times for food are weekends and evenings.  But it's a boredom thing I guess.... as well as a habit.  Sorry-- no ideas for challenges here.... hope others pipe in with some

Happy Friday all... hope all are keeping

So my last post was about the great workout I had right... yeah well here I am 5 days later and I can still feel the tight muscles in my stomach when I stretch.  I was sore for 3.5 full days  uuugh.  I didn't think I had gotten that out of shape again!  I used to do that twice a week just not such a high intensity.  So... I will do it again, only maybe not so hard core this week! 

My eating has been pretty good. I have only splurged once and it was a small piece of cake that the teenager made and I had to try.  She did very very well!  It was hard not to have a second piece!  ha ha

I am on vacation for two weeks starting the 14th.  So I am thinking of how I'm going to challenge myself on the road trip.  Since the first part is a straight 16 hours of driving... I need to keep myself from getting stiff.  Anyone have any ideas of how I can stretch in the passengerside of our truck?  I'm thinking of taking my stretch bands and I can tie it around my knees and use the resistance to stretch the legs.  So that is at least a start.

Are you all fizzeling out on this post?  Do we need to come up with something new???   :) 

 

Hello! add me in. I am 27 single parent w/a toddler & infant. work full-time M-F. I started to workout & watch what I eat 5-weeks ago. at times it has been real hard to go to the workout room we have where I live. but I take both of my kids. baby on stroller & my toddler running around. There is not so many machines I can work with. But with just the treadmill walking/jogging for 30 mon. (calculated & I tried to finish 2 miles) & doing weight lifting for my arms. I have lost 18 lbs in 5 weeks. This has kept me going & not thinking of staying home being a couch potato at home when I get off from work. Sure lets keep all of us motivated. To keep going & not stopping. 27 yrs, CW 203 GW 176 or less by Halloween thats my short term goal. :)

Welcome miriam!  Glad you found us.  Sounds like you are doing well... taking 2 little ones to a workout room sounds tough-- but you are making it work.  Good for you-- and them.  They will see a good example.

Considering we all are  busy parents and workers... keeping up in here isn't always easy.  I'll add you as a friend - if you don't mind.  If you keep a journal I'll make comments to help you along.

Have a good weekend! Ciosa

Count me in as well. I'm 26, 5'7", CW 160; GW 145. I'm currently engaged and I have a two year old daughter and a 7 year old step-daughter. I work full time at the state lab. I'm also (slowly) finishing up a degree, taking one class right now.

I'm finding it very difficult to balance my time between exercise and family (among other things)  in the short time after work. I'm glad I found this forum. :)

Thanks Ciosa, sounds good to me.

Hi ladies. I am new to this site and am already hooked. I saw your posting and wanted to join your group as well...It's encouraging to see others who have so much in common with my daily routine and challenges. Most of my friends do not have children so they can't relate to my difficulties and challenges of my busy schedule. It's been very frustrating and lonely.

A little about me: I'm 33, 5'8; CW 185, GW 148. I work 40-45 hours/week (actually 126 hours if you count everything I do during the week less 6 hours of sleep each night...that is IF I get 6!). Married 10 years this September, 1 child - a beautiful, intelligent, creative, yet challenging, 4 year old boy who is the center of my life.

Before I had my son I was in great shape. It was something I worked very hard to achieve...had made this change in my life and committed to it for 2 years. Prior to that I had always struggled with my weight and body image so I made the leap, joined a gym and started working with a personal trainer. I LOVED IT! It became addictive. I felt and looked better than I ever had.

After the birth of my son my life completely changed as I know everyone here can relate. I put myself last and by doing so I have become this unhappy, unhealthy person who doesn't enjoy really anything anymore.

 My screen name is newgoals beause I am starting over. I've found myself always telling myself that I'll make 'those' changes next week or tomorrow only to find that next week and tomorrow would never come. Usually if I lost my way I would beat myself up about it. I know what I need to do to meet my goals but having that support network will help me get there. Making new goals one day at a time.

Hello everyone!  I hope you don't mind the late join.  I've been on for a while, dropped off for a year and a half and I'm back again.  At this point, I've lost a total of 22 lbs!

I'm 35, CW 150, GW 125.  I work 40+ hours a week as a public defender.  I'm remarried almost 7 years and have four children.  15, 13, 11 and 5.  I also work part-time as a taxi driver since they are in high school football, cheerleading and semi-professional ballet company, tournament baseball team, etc.  I also have MS and a form of lupus.  I spend most of my time exhausted, but I love being able to participate in my kid's activities.  I have one really close friend here who doesn't have any children yet - fortunately she wants them and she has been designated as my "assistant parent".  Hubby tries to help out, but his work is a 45 minute commute so not much help until after hours.

I was in pretty good shape even after the birth of my 4th child.  All the health problems and bouts of not being able to get any exercise (and sitting on my rear eating fast food) have taken a toll over the last few years.  I have a choice of getting in shape and regaining a little control over my physical well-being or I can continue to enjoy the empty calories and go down-hill.  (Trust me, it was a hard choice some days to give up the french fries!!!!)  My 13 yo daughter has also been struggling with her weight and I want to be a good example for her.

Hi everyone, and welcome to the newbies!!  I've been gone for quite some time....only mentally.  I am very frustrated with my weight fluctuations and just can't seem to get it under control.  And then comes my binges.  I haven't been doing well with counting calories or exercising.  My knee still bothers me some, but I've been taking it slow on the treadmill.  Just walking.  Depression has begun to creep up on me (I'm already medicated), so my doc increased my meds.  I'm sure that has something to do with my inability to lose more weight.  Unfortunately, the meds haven't really begun to kick in yet.  Sometimes I feel good, and sometimes not.  So...I've just been a couch potato, lounging around.  I make it to work and cook dinner, but beyond that...I don't do much.  *sigh* And on top of all that it's TTOM.  Ugh...

I'm SO glad to see everyone doing well though!  It's great to see new people joining as well!!  Hopefully I'll get straight and be back at it soon! 

I have found a really great workout called the "trouble spot tune-up".  In the beginning, it's only 10 minutes, but as your body can take more, you do more.  I did it and was sore until I did it again.  It's from the "ultimate leg, butt, hip and thigh workout".  Here's the link (hopefully it works)...http://legbutthipthighexercises.com/wp-conten t/uploads/2008/06/trouble-spot-tune-up-for-wo men.pdf

  

 

 

Hello all!  I'm back from driving the alaskan highway!  2088 miles from Haines AK to Anchorage, Fairbanks, and back home!  It was a great drive!  Didn't see as much wildlife as we wanted to, but three moose and a ton of rabbits and ground hogs passed the camera lens :)

Hello to all the new comers!!

As I read the previous posts, it seems there are no new challenges.... ?  Are you all slacking?  :)  Only teasing... I ate horribly!  My family (I love them dearly) lived off fast food since we don't have anything near home.  Uggg!  So I'm home and stocked up with my good foods again and ready to kick some butt!  The dog needs a walk and I have become determined that no matter what... every other day I will at the least walk a couple of miles.  No more taking days off.  

What have you all been up to since I have been gone?

And to the new comers... we try to do weekly challenges... so feel free to come up with some!!  :)  We are all looking for suggestions and motivation!

 

Hi Everyone,

I am back from Mexico.  We had a good time, eat fresh lobster, shrimp and fish almost everyday.  Guacamole was a daily meal also.  It was hard to see all the poverty though. 

Runningbellydancer – It is nice to see you back.  Thank you for the reference on the site.  I just went out to it and signed up.  Depression is a real challenge.  At the moment I feel pretty down myself.  I have not worked out in probably two weeks.  Although the food was good, my body did not enjoy the change and let me know it.  I also came down with a really bad ear infection.  I was given amoxicillin and ear drops however, they did not completely nock it out and so I am on a second dose of antibiotics.  Needless say my daily swimming of laps was put on hold, unfortunately everything else was also. 

Newgoals – I am in the same boat you are.  I keep saying tomorrow I will eat less, healthier etc.  However, I always view it as a sacrifice.  My sister-in-law just visited and she joined weight watchers.  She looks great and I have thought of joining however, I just do not have the money right now.  I now what I need to do however am having trouble doing it.  Perhaps together we can finally do it.

Well, my son wants to watch Monsters inc and has just placed it in the computer so I am going to run. 


Carolyn the solar cooker sounds like it is really coming along. 

Hello to everyone else and welcome to the new people.  I will try to write more tomorrow.

Bran :-)

Sheesh you guys, I am such a slacker about posting here.  Hang in there to everyone who is having trouble...we have ALL been there and know how you feel.  I have been in a motivational slump the last week or two.  Got sick and that made it hard to work out.  It seems like illness and vacations always throw me off track LOL.  I have so much to comment on, but the kids are about to wake up. 

BTW  bran, health insurance plans will sometimes help cover weight loss/preventative health and fitness programs, but tend not to go out of their way to make it known, so you may want to look into it.  It can't hurt to check, anyway.

Depression IS hard; it makes everything else in life difficult.  I've been clinically depressed a few times in my life...even tried to commit suicide when I was young and foolish, fortunately foolish enough not to do it right.  Then I started suffering full-blown panic attacks when I was 6 months pregnant with my first child (apparently having a predisposition to anxiety and depression are closely related).  The good news, runningbellydancer, is that you have recognized you have a problem and are getting professional help.  It sounds like you have had your ups and downs, so you probably know as well as I do that things CAN, and probably will, get better. 

Oh, kids are up.  Time for the rodeo to start.  Hey, does anyone think starting a Yahoo Group for us would be a good idea?

 

carolyn

Morning everyone!

Well I'm happy to report that after one month on CC I am down 12lbs!!! .  Unfortunately I am now on holidays for 2 weeks back home in Canada (I live in the UK) and boy is it hard to stick to your calories when you aren't at home.  I went and bot some groceries of stuff I know and like - but it seems at least once a day someone wants to take you out... or you are out shopping and want to grab a bite.  Its HARD!   I haven't put any weight on yet tho (I think).  Had a bit of a cheat night last night... got a sitter for the night so went out for a big fancy dinner with my parents and sister.  Had a crab cake to start (no sauce very clean) and just a piece of halibut with asparagus for main.  The killer was the champagne and wine we had with it.  However....... I am going to tee off for 18 holes of golf this morning so that should help but that off.  I just went to see how many calories you burn golfing and its says 263/hr even with a power cart!! SWEET!  Think I'll stay off the scales today and check in tomorrow.

Hope everyone is well.  I am here for another week and then off to Toronto for 6 days for work.  Now that is going to be hard cause all my meals are out and I'm going to visit grandma which means killer home cooked meal.  C'est la vie - have to still enjoy life right?

Then I'm back home for 17 day by myself .  Husband and son are staying back  in Vancouver (he is a stay-at-home dad) and we thought he could just enjoy the summer here with the grandparents and his friends because the last 2 weeks of August are going to be insane for me at work (12hrs+/day).  Lucky them, poor me.  Going to be tough not seeing them for 3 weeks I tell ya.

But I think that it will be good for me - to really focus on diet/working out because I won't have to rush home for dinner.... I can go to the gym after work and really just eat what I want.  No cooking for a kid and nibbling at his left overs ;)

Well - gotta go get ready for golf. 

 

Hello Everyone! this weekend I was really lazy. I been sick & my kid too. but today is Monday i will be hitting the gym again. new week fresh start. Good Luck Everyone.

Idea: Now that today is new week. Track down how much calories per day you burn at work. We can post the total per day on how we did at the end of the day Friday. What you guys think? Down for the challenge?

It's good to know I'm not the only one who has been slacking in exercise and everything!  I'm just in an awful slump. 

It also helps to hear that others know what I am going through.  I was clinically diagnosed with major depressive disorder back in 2002.  Been through many medications.  Found one I liked, but insurance stopped covering the brand name and I found the generic just did not work for me.  Wound up having to switch yet again...the med I'm on is ok.  Just recently increased dosage.  Sometimes it's helping...sometimes not so much.  Those of you who have experience with the depression meds know it takes a while for them to kick in.  I'm just waiting...rather impatiently!!  haha!! 

Anyway...I've been trying to be better about working out.  On Saturday I did a 20 minute HIIT workout on my treadmill....then I did it again!!  Boy was I sweating!!!  That's good, right?? 

I also found this site...haven't started it yet but plan on doing so this week (since I've already paid).  http://www.fityummymummy.com/  It's  Has anyone else tried it?  I'm a sucker for stuff like this.  Unfortunately.  The support on this site is exceptional though.  You send an email and get a personal reply the same day.  Sometimes within an hour!  I'll keep you all posted on how it goes.

Today is back to school here - a whirlwind weekend of buying school supplies, packing backpacks, etc.  My youngest started kindergarten today - no separation anxiety for him, plenty for me!  My oldest is a sophomore in high school and has been in football practice for a month.  I am just so relieved that I have another week until my daughter starts cheerleading and ballet company.

I've been trying to go off my anxiety medication and think I'm going to have to start up again.  Just too much going on in life right now.  I started a new med for my MS and I'm hoping I'll be back on the treadmill in the next week.  In the meantime, my office is FREEZING!  I've decided that it's not a bad thing since perhaps shivering burns calories???

Ugh, I have gained the last two weeks.  I was being bad, though, so it is not a huge surprise.  Still, it seems that the last time I lost weight it came a little more easily.  My husband (a doctor) keeps nagging me to get my thyroid tested - mostly because I tolerate much less cold than he does and it drives him nuts.  Still, I am beginning to think he has a point.  The weight is inching off, but I am following the same plan I did four years ago and I was losing about 2lb a week then.  To be fair, I was exercising more intensively then....still, I am wondering if it can't hurt to check.  I need to give blood for a rabies titer anyway (no kidding - for my job!  I am vaccinated against rabies and check my immunity every few years to see if I need a booster). 

The solar oven sort of works.  The highest temperature I have been able to sustain is 265F, which is sufficient to cook things slowly at safe temperatures (ie no risk of food poisoning).  Unfortunately it has to be babysat and adjusted to be directly in the path of the sun to sustain that.  I had been hoping to use it like a crockpot.  Set it up in the a.m. and have a yummy solar cooked dinner when I get home!  LOL I have this nutty dream of moving somewhere remote and being completely self-sufficient.  That probably doesn't sound as nuts now as it would have six months ago before food and energy prices skyrocketed.  Still, we are inching "off the grid" bit by bit. 

I made an Alton Brown protein bar recipe last night.  Turned out kind of dry.  Maybe I am expecting too much from a protein bar, but I have high expectations of his recipes!  I am going to try adding some fat in the form of avocado or canola oil next time to see if that improves the texture. 

Off to mow the lawn.  It is gorgeous outside...cool and windy....and lawn is getting shaggy.  TTFN!  (is that so 80s or what?)