Thought I would post

Well Like I said in Robyns post, I was going to restart in Sept and on Sept 6 I re-started dieting and watching my weight..I have lost 16 lbs...aiming for a ton more than that.
I am having a hard time this week because I have a bad cough and alot of congestion funny how being sick makes you want all your favorite comfort foods isnt it...

So is there anyone out there still reading this thread stilneeding support because I do right now..My DD is getting Married in Dec and I intend to lose as much weight as possible before than...so I hope you'll come and try it with me and be my support...I plan on starting regular exercise when the cough is gone..its affecting my asthma too much right now...I really wanted to start this week but next week treadmeill here I come...what are you doing to be more active next week share your ideas with me...please

Going Again!

Hi Girls!!

Well, I started WW last Monday because I had gained 5 more pounds and was just tired of food ruling my life.  I have done really well with it and have lost 9 pounds so far.  I have 20 more to go!!  I'm haven't been hungry the last few days because of some family stress going on but once that is taken care of I hope I am able to stay away from the junky food.

I hope you are all doing well.  Thanks for keeping this list going!

Let's try to keep this going

I've been away for awhile too. Seems like this blog has fizzled a bit. Let's face it, who wants to exercise and do what is needed to loose the weight. I just found out that the pain that I have had in my foot for over a year is due to arthritis...uuggghhh. So, know I have just one more reason to lose the weight, to relieve some of the pain...Let's all get going again, share ideas, support each other. I just saw on Robyn's blog today that she bought a exercise ball to sit on while she crafts...what a great idea. Anyone else have any great ideas?

Hi to all.....I've been MIA, but I've returned......

I've not really made an effort to watch what I eat much less excercise.....I was Blog hoppin' through my favs today and came across this one....I truly want to get back into shape...this summer heat has me down, course I was big on walking till my oldest got out of headstart earlier this year and now it's impossible to walk with both of them.....I'm going to try and get back to drinking MORE WATER and LESS Diet Coke....Arghhhh.....It's good to be back and get ideas from all you awesome cricut sisters....Hugs to all.....It's nice to know we aren't all alone with our weight issues.

Sheri G

Downloading Pazzle Images

Regina Easter talked me thru it at one time but I lost her instructions.
We put it into a folder the first time but I forgot the name of the folder.
I'm trying to get "Tags, Bags and Boxes" from Cricut and I don't know
how to do it. Thanks for any help.

Shirley

Video with Son

This video with your son was so cute.
Loved it.

Shirley

Sick

Sorry to hear you have been ill. I really
enjoy your video's and think you are
wonderful to do one being under the
weather. Thanks for the tips in this
one.

Hair

I loved your video of your trip
to get your hair done. Been down
that road about price. We have
Regis here in San Antonio, Tx.
I have walked in the mall once
and after I payed now I walk
by and wave.

Just checking In

I just wanted to see how everyone is doing. The nice warm temps have arrived here so I am outside as much as possible. Its a great time to get that little extra exercise just working in the yard. Just make sure to drink enough water to go with the warmth.
I have now lost 20 lbs. Im not really doing anything to loose anymore but I am still watching what I eat. I dont want to fall back into my bad habits.
Im sure I will be busy the next few months as my daugher is getting married in October. I havent gotten a dress yet, not knowing what size to buy and if I will loose more weight. Right now my daughter has hers and that is all that matters.
Check in and let everyone know how you are doing. If you feel you have fallen off the wagon, just pick it up and get back on. Today is a new day!
Have a great week!

Hello!!

Well, I got a little discouraged when I gained back all the weight I lost so I haven't been on here. Now, with swimsuit season coming up I have to do something. I tried a couple suits on on Saturday and I was mortified!! I am exercising but nothing really seems to help me. Anyone have any advice??

Today is the day

Hi Everyone.

I have been on this blog link since the beginning but I have not been following and type of diet or exercise program. Well today is the first day for me. Something was different for me when I woke up this morning. I just decided to do it. I really, really need to do it too. I am very sure that I will feel better once the weight starts to come off and I am sure I will have more energy. Reading all of your posts is really an inspiration to me. Continued Good luck and success to all of you.

Teresa

Back Again LOL

Okay this time I havebeen out of town....

I really behaved my self and made good food choices, except I didnt drink as much water and
I definately didnt get enough sleep...I am refusing to weigh myself right now becasue my ankles and feet are still puffy so next week I'll see if I lost any weight....LOL

Joyce I am glad you checked in if you hadn't I might have just deleted my link to the blog....

Come on everyone dont let a bad day or month keep you from succeeding its the results by the end of the year that matter....

Im happy with my weight loss

Since I have started I have lost a total of 19 lbs. I am very happy even if I dont loose anymore. I have lost a size in my clothing and I have so much more energy now.
Keep it up girls!

I'm Back

I guess everyone burned out like I did when life got a little crazy... the last few weeks though I have gotten back ont he wagon and am losing the pounds I already lost I can tell you I lost 5 lbs last week and another 5 lbs this week....So I am posting again incase anyone is out there lurking hoping for company...

Where are all the posts?

Hey, where is everyone? I've been here a few times and don't want to be the only one that puts a post up. So, here's my progress-in the last month I lost another pound! Woo Hoo! lol At least I didn't gain any back that I lost the month of January. Now I need to get serious again and really work on myself. I hope everyone else is holding their own. Can't wait til spring when I can get outside and start putting in the garden and taking walks without freezing! I don't like to exercise inside and always seem to exercise more in the warmer months. In the winter I just want to bundle up in a blanket on the sofa. Come on Spring!
Danielle

Been away for a while

I havent been here for a while. My mother hurt her back so I have been busy with her.

I am still hanging in there with the weight loss. 11 lbs. and 12 overall inches. It has gotten to be pretty much routine for me now. I do 8 classes of Jazzercise a week and I really make sure I have 6 servings of fruits and veggies & 8 servings of grain per day. This has really added a boost to my energy too.

I have 5 more lbs to go hopefully in time for Spring.

Have a great week!

Hey all!

So I have not been so good on the diet part, I did start working out at the YMCA yesterday. I was sore this morning when I woke up at 5:30am but went ahead and got up and did it! I can't explain it but even though I feel very sore, it is a good feeling. I did 25 minutes of cardio yesterday and today and then I did upper body weightlifting yesterday and lower body today. We'll see if I can keep this up. :)

Sick of being sick!

I've had a bad cold for the last 3 weeks and have been very tired. Haven't lost any weight in that time, but I haven't gained any either. I have been sleeping 10 to 12 hours a day most days. That ususally includes a nap in the day if I don't work or falling asleep on the sofa after dinner if I do work! Went to the doctor even though I thought it was just a bad cold because it was lasting so long. And sure enough, just a virus although the nurse practioner did say it looked like a "new" cold and that was after 2 1/2 weeks! 2 of my DD's have been sick too, so I guess we are just passing it back and forth! I hope to get back on track soon and start losing again! I hope all of you are staying well!
Danielle

my weigh in

Hi all! Well...I had my weigh in at curves today..and I haven't lost any weight!!!!!!!!!!!errrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr. Had a long talk with the ladies there and yes...I've been working out 3 times a week...yes...I've been drinking my water...yes....I've been watching what I eat! So they backed up and asked a few different questions...no...I don't do breakfast...no I don't always do lunch....hmmmmmmmmm...they say.... They are thinking that I need to eat small meals...to keep my metoblism..spelling sorry...going... So tomorrow I start eating something for breakfast...a small lunch...and a fruit snack. Guess I will see how this works...lol...I'll let you know how I do.

On the good side....I did lose 6.25 inches!!!!!!!! Now I know that not a lot..but considering I didnt lose weight I'm happy with it! Now if I could just figure out how to lose it in my tummy!!!!

mary jean

Tracking weight loss/gain Monday 2/11

How did you do last week?

Happy Weekend

Well I am doing great I actually feel fine, butthats only becasue I forgive myself for not dieting the last few weeks.. I just cant seem to focus enough on it right now. I am still exercising when I dont have a sick kid or 2 hr late start....I am glad I have the exercise going, I have cut way back on Chocloate and sweets, but I am not dieting really... But I am eating a lot less and that has to be good enough right now.. I havent had a sodapop since we started..so that is good, Right

Tracking weight loss/gain Monday 2/4

Zero for me! I stayed the same.

-Sandy

I've been avoiding you girls!

I feel so guilty because I completely fell off the wagon. I don't know if I can pick myself back up yet. My kids were sick last week and over the weekend so things have definitely been not normal. I really want to lose the weight so the desire is there but I just like food too much, I guess.

Eating well

At dinner yesterday 13 yo DD said she was glad we eat healthy at our house. At school they had been talking about fast food and being overweight. I eat healthy, but I was eating too much of everything. After the first week or two of feeling hungry a lot, now I think my stomach has gotten used to less food. I feel good about taking better care of myself.
Danielle

recipes

Oh yesterday I wentand scoped out the sparks site...there are some great recipes over there. Yesterday went well, still having a bit of a problem drinking all that water.. drank alot but probably not enough. I did pretty good yesterday no complaints. Loving the grape nuts this week needed a change from oatmeal...Have a great day

Tracking weight loss/gain Monday 1/28

How about we start a weekly check in on if you gain or lose weight?

hello, everyone, I am having a great day...I went and exercised on Friday and today. I had missed for aweek , but now I am sore again...I had a great weekend just relaxing and taking it easy I made 10 cards for a swap I am so happy I hadnt done anything creative for a week.

I am so not going to weighmyself right now, becasue my ring wont even spin on my finger...can anyone say waer weight so I am not going to disappoint my self and just skip the weight this week...I think it will do better for me...But I feel great and that is why I am trying to take the weight off any ways....
Have agood week everyone.

I Lost a Size

I'm so excited...When I started all this back in October, I could barely get into my largest pants...I have 4 different sizes...you never know, I might get back in them (that is what I keep telling DH.) DH's answer was for me to go buy bigger pants. I would have none of that. So, yesterday I tried on the next size down and they fit!!!!!!!!!! I am so excited!!! I have lost 12 lbs since October, and 5 since I switched to Spark People at the beginning of this month.

Time to start a new week!

Well, it Sunday nite...time to start a new week! I did pretty good this weekend...especially considering we celebrated dads 77th birthday today.

I ate a bit more than I should have...BUT...I ate less than I would have before I started on this new adventure. I got behind on my water drinking today but since we got home I've been drinking my water...YEAHHHHHH.

I so didnt want to go to curves Friday. Had myself talked out of it. I finally decided I would be kicking myself in the afternoon if I didnt so off I went. I was really glad I did...got to talking to one of the gals there about my water problem...how I just cant seem to get it all in... she said for her...the idea of drinking 8 -10 glasses of water just seemed overwhelming....so she found a BIG cup/glass....that she only has to fill 3 times a day...and she is able to get her water in. She said to her it was the same theory as using a smaller plate.... Anywho's.. I tried it this weekend...and it worked! I think her tip was Gods' way of rewarding me for not giving in.

LOL...well I gotta go gals....time for a potty break!!!

mary jean

Happy Friday

I got on the scales this morning and know I have to be very good today! I am back up a pound from two days ago. I went a little crazy yesterday and ate way too much! Now I am ready to be disciplined again today. I think it's probably a good thing to do this and realize I feel better when I don't overeat anyway. Last night my kids were wayching TV and having snacks, so I had some with them. I had cheese and reduced fat crackers, which isn't awful, but I had them at about 9PM and went to bed shortly after that, so it was when I ate that got me. Today I can start again. Isn't it great to know that we get a fresh start every morning! I hope everyone has a good Friday and great weekend!
Danielle

Having a BAD WEEK

Hello Ladies!

Well, I haven't had time to turn on the computer this week and I sure have been having a bad week. I went to WW on Friday last week and lost 2 lbs. We went away for the weekend and it was my son's birthday and we were around lots of family until Monday afternoon! Well you know what that leads to; lots of food and eating. Didn't count my points ..... and ate and ate and ate. I am one of those persons that when they blow it, they really blow it. Yes, I have been eating whatever I want all week and have not counted any points! Ugh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I need to get back on track!

I sure hope I get on track soon! I really think just posting this has helped already!


Sandy :)

Happy Birthday Robyn!

Happy Birthday to you,
Happy Birthday to you,
Happy Birthday dear Robyn,
Happy Birthday to you!!!

Confetti sprays everywhere!! WooHoo!!

I NEED water!!!!!!!!!

I hate drinking water! I've never been good at drinking water but I am trying...really trying this time! I have found that I do soo much better about drinking my water on the days that I work out...And on the good side I have kept my commitment of working out at least 3 times a week at curves. I don't feel yet that I have lost any weight...or inches...but I can tell that my muscles sore...that it is a bit easier to get up from the sofa. And hey!!! when I started this a couple weeks ago my knees just couldnt handle that squat machine but now I'm proud to say that I can do them! Baby steps...baby steps! It took me years to learn the bad behaviors ...they arent going to change over nite... but if I can just keep sliding those good behaviors in little by little I'll get there!

Hi everybody...thanks for letting me join!

Hi ! I am really excited to have a place to visit and chat where we can encourage one another with our physical goals. I started on Monday the 21st with walking and being more careful with what I eat. The really hard part is that I walk with my husband at 6:00 am...which means that we get up at 5:30am! It is cold outside and I really don't want to get up but thankfully I have been able to for 3 days now. I want to loose about 82 pounds...long term goal. My oldest son is getting married end of June so that is my short term goal...to have some off by then. I want to add weight training into my routine in about a month. I love the CMB and I am excited to share with some of the ladies that chat there. Iam excited to get support through you all and I hope I can be to you.

No one is Bad!

Ok, first of all no one needs to be beating themselves up over anything. We all eat things that are not the healthiest things for us from time to time. It doesn't make us Bad, it makes us human, or hungry or tempted, but not Bad. I have been being very careful about eating only healthy things, no sweets or empty calories for several weeks, but Saturday was my DH's birthday so I had a piece of birthday cake. No big deal. It tasted good. The next day I was eating healthy again. Yesterday I had to work a 12 hour shift, (which I hate), and I ate lunch and supper at work. I had more meat and more bread exchanges than I am supposed to have. When I weighed in this morning I went up a pound. I'm still on the right track and 5 pounds down from where I was the first of the year. Let's all give ourselves a pat on the back for what we are doing right-we're on the road to a better, healthier us. Hooray for us! We can do this even if it's hard and the road is a bit rocky from time to time. if it was easy we wouldn't need each other for support, would we? I hope everyone has a good week. -Danielle

Starting again!

Well, I had a very unhealthy weekend. My DH's brother was in town since Thursday so we ate out Thursday, Friday, & Saturday night. I also made a huge dinner on Sunday night. I just went ahead and ate lots of goodies this weekend. I am back on track this morning. I'm going to do it!!! I wanted to share the healthy meal I am making for my family tonight.

Tortilla Soup

Throw all these in a crockpot and cook on high 3-5 hours or low 5-7. I am using frozen chicken breasts so I am cooking on high for 6 hours.

3 chicken breasts
1 can rotelle
1 can cream of corn
1 can chicken and rice soup
1 can black beans
2 cups chicken broth

Serve over baked Tortilla Scoops

Yummy!!

OOOPS!

well, I dont know what to say, I was not accountable this weekend...Long weekends make it hard for me to diet. Okay to start I had a few more cookies, thank goodness they are gone now...then we had guest for dinner Sat. Night...You can't have guest with out dessert right...and then to top it off , I did VSN on Fri & Sat and yes I covered some nuggets and well my kids and I finished them off by last night. You can see how this is going can't you, never the less I decided not to disappoint myself by weighing yesterday. I have decided to get back on the wagon and diet again, yeah so I haven't given up and weigh myself next week. For a total before the weekend I had lost 6 lbs....we will see next Monday how I am doing....or sooner if my pants feel looser;)

Have a good day everyone.....and goodluck sticking to it...It's tough

Last week was BAD

Hi everyone---
Last week was sooooo busy for me. I did not have time to check in here. And I did not have time to control my eating. I know that a cop out. Life is always going to be busy and I have to find a way to keep my food choices under control and stay away from quick convenience items, but that's hard. So I am not going to be down on myself about it. I am just going to start again. This week will be different right?????
Amy

Nervous about weighing in tomorrow

I am scared to go and weigh in tomorrow. I only went to work out Monday and Tuesday. On Wednesday, my 2 year old was sick, so I stayed at home. Thursday thru today, I didn't leave the house because of the weather. I don't know about you but cold weather makes me hungry all day long. So, I had a hard time trying not to snack all week. I had an emotional break down Thursday and had a few adult beverages, so I am sure I went way over in points that day. All in all, I really didn't have a good week. I hope this new week is better...and warmer. Ok, so I am just praying that the weatherman is wrong and we will be above freezing soon.

1 week down!

Well tomorrow will be 1 week for me. I have lost 3lbs and I still havent had any caffine. Now that the headaches are over its not bad at all. Dont get me wrong I miss my sodas BIG TIME but Im finding that I sleep better and belive it or not I have more energy. I am eating more fruits and grains in my diet and Im sure that has contributed.
I hope things go as well this week. I will try to make exercise class 6 days this week and continue with small meals throughout the day. That seems to work best for me.
I hope eveyone has had a good week. I look forward to reading your posts.
Joyce

Just checking in

Hello all,
I am just dropping by to say hi and to report that I lost my one pound last week. I started a new job and it is going to be steady vigorous work with long hours, so hopefully the pounds will start to shed off. I will keep checking in to see how every one is doing as time allows. I hope that everyone is well and in good spirits.

I am Not beating myself UP

Okay My DS wanted me to make Cookies...So I did...

Well I had one...I was thinking how stupid,

but then thought well normally I would eat about 10 of them

so If I only had one I am still dieting right...

Well thats what I decided...

Tell Me Do you think I am in Denial?

Editted: to add the following Saturday at 10:00 am

Okay, I did eat a few more cookies last night and probably 2 toomany pieces of Chicken Garlic De lite Pizza from Papa Murphy's, But I didn't gain any weight.

So in 2 weeks I lost 7 pounds...not bad for 2 weeks, not great either, but at least I haven't eaten any candy bars, or snacked after dinner time, and while everyone else is eating ice cream I haven't, maybe I am in a little bit of denial, or maybe holding back from losing weight....

but tomorrow starts a new week and I still intend to lose weight so here's to another week of weight loss.

Have A Nice Weekend and DO Your Best!

I was wrong!!

Before I got in the shower I weighed myself again and I was 2 pounds lighter!!! So, my total weighloss since last Thursday morning is 6 pounds!!! I was ready to give up this morning but now that I see that I am progressing I want to try even harder! I can do it!!!!

I'm doing fine....

Yesterday I was very good with my points and then last night my DH took us all out to Golden Corral for dinner. I did have a lot more than normal there but I didn't totally stuff myself so that is good.

This morning I had a slimfast shake and I will have a sandwich for lunch. It's hard to watch what I'm eating right now because my DH's brother is in town (to look over my DH's shoulder in his practice), and we are going to be eating out a lot. I am going to weigh myself right now........still the same. I did weigh myself before my medical procedure last week and I was 4 pounds heavier so I guess it's not bad at all.

Okay, I've rambled long enough. Have a good day everyone!

Good Morning,,,,IT's Friday

Okay today I am happy my pants are a little lose...I decided not to go to the health club because it is fridged and getting colder outside...BRRRR...I will probably walk on the treadmill for a bit right here at home...Here is hoping we all have a great Day watching ourselves eat right and getting ready to do the weekend...always harder for me when kids are home all day....
Someone asked me to share the Muffin Recipe... It is from the Weight Watchers QuickStart Cookbook from Like the 80's...I must say though I modified the recipie because the crumb topping wasn't crumbly and so I added an extra 1/4C of flour, but I was doubling the recipie and I might have messed that up in my calculations so I dont know follow the recipie and if you have a problem like me add a little extra flour.

Apple Crumb Muffins

Makes 12 Servings 1 Muffin each
they freeze well...
Batter
2 C Flour
1/4C sugar
1T baking Powder
1tsp apple pie spice
1C skim milk
1 Sm Golden Delicious Apple(Iused Granny smith)cored peeled and shreaded
1/4 C margarine melted
1 Egg
Crumb topping
1/4 C flour
2T+1t Sugar(please I left out the t)
2T margarine
1/8 t cinnamon

prepare batter: (it said line with paper baking cups, my muffins stuck in the paper so I think next time I spray a little pam in the metal pans)
preheat oven to 400
mix first 4 ingredients. In 2C measure combine milk, apple, margarine and egg, pour into dry ingredients and stir until combined do not over mix mixture will be lumpy fill 2/3 full

topping: In bowl combine all ingredients stirring well until blended sprinkle and equal amount on top of all the muffins, bake for 15-20 min. Until golden and toothpick inserted in center comes out dry. Now I made 24 of these 2 days ago...I only ate 4 my, the rest of my family finished them off yesterday....

WW info:
Each serving provides, 1 bread exchange, 1 1/2 Fat exchanges: 50 calories opt exchange
Per serving 183 calories, 4g protien, 6g fat;28g carbohydrates; 88mg calcium, 186mg salt; 23mg cholesterol.

Enjoy have a good day! Good Luck Out There

Don't Worry, Be Happy

Robyn-don't worry about falling off the wagon. Everyone does at one time or another. Last week I was having a lot of chocolate cravings and I popped a few Hrshey kisses almost every day. This week I am not craving the chocolate or even sweets nearly as much. Today there was a going away party for someone who is leaving from work. I wasn't even tempted to eat any cake. I just didn't want any! It's a good thing it wasn't a pie!

I had a thought this week that I should be happy that I need to lose weight. It means that I live in a place where food is plentiful, and I am not in want. I need to be thankful for the blessings I have, and better choices about how I use the resources that are given to me!

Here is another good reason for me to be losing weight. For heart health. I have been having a strange discomfort in my chest for a few days-off and on. I was at work last evening (I am a nurse) and it happened several times in a matter of minutes. The feeling only lasts a few seconds. I asked another nurse to run an EKG (heart tracing) on me and it showed an abnormal tracing. Now I need to get to the doctor, but I would rather find out when it's just a small abnormality and not a major heart problem. Losing weight will be a lot better for my heart. It won't have to pump the blood through all the extra tissue.

Dragging My Foot

Oh we are all struggling with the wagon ...I havent fallen off but I have been dragging my foot, my DS wanted muffins so I made some nice Weight watchers ones from a cook book. They smell great and they were yummy...I probably ater two extra yesterday, and one piece of cinnamon bread today small....but I would say I am still fine. I weighed my self early becasue I have beenbad and I wanted to remind my self what I was doing . I was happy I lost 1 pound...so that is 7 in all....I really havent been dieting...I have a very extreme diet I do when I want to take weight off , but I dont feel like doing it. SO basically I quit snacking after dinner and cut back on Sugar. I did have some plain pop corn last night because I had the munchies...
Robyn I haven't had any Chocolate other than some Sugar free Low fat Hot cocoa, I have a cup around noon. I water it down a bit so I can have more....but it seems to be handling my Chocolate cravings, so I am happy about that...I am with you Robyn I so would have eaten that many chocolates and more..I love M&M's. ....I had whole wheat toast for breakfast plain. I have drank my water the last few days.... had some beans and Rice for Lunch with 1 oz of melted low fat cheese...I love the vermont brand Walmart carries.....today I have drank 1 20oz orange drink walmarts brand of Crystal light...Love that when I can't handle drinking another bottle of water, and one bottle of water...Love having the bottled water around to drink. Helps keep me from grabbing something else quick. I put 4 bottles in the fridge at night and I know I have to drink them the next day. I do add a few drops of lime juice or lemon, But I keep it by me so I get my water in... 2 down 2 to go...Need to plan healthy dinner for tonight....Thats what I am doing now...I really want comfort food because it is so cold here, So I mihgt have to make some kind of Chicken stew...but or White Chilli, but I am hungry today........

I fell off the wagon!! Help me!!

I was doing so well today. I had oatmeal for breakfast, a chicken caesar salad for lunch minus the dressing, and a healthy dinner. It all happened in my stamp room where I was covering Nuggets for an upcoming Cricut Swarm. I just couldn't wrap those delictible chocolates without trying one. It would only be 1 point, not a big deal. Well, 6 nuggest later and then a handful of M&M's, and I am satisfied. I hope that doesn't mess everything up. I will start over in the morning. Maybe I should incorporate 1 M&M a day. Maybe that would help my chocolate craving.

I hope you all had a great day!!

my weight reward schedule!

Ok....last nite I sat down and figured out what my reward system for losing weight would work out...lol...

10pounds.....3 drawer jetmax cube
20 pounds...4 door jetmax cube
30. pounds...paper drawer
40 pounds...paper drawer
50 pounds...new light fixture
60 pounds...black towel rack

hubby added the following as incentives that he could drop in whenever

cartridges
dss
formica table top
laminate flooring
painted room
upper cabinets with glass door inserts

Looks like ive got my work cut out for me! 2 pounds down and 58 more to go !!!!!!!!


mary jean

Ive made it 3 days!

This is the 3rd day without softdrinks (or any caffine) for me. This is my biggest hurdle but I have confidence I can hang on. I have watched my diet, eating more fruits and grains and so far I havent even been hungry between meals. Ive also continued my Jazzercise classes on a daily basis. The only thing I havent gotten done is scrapbooking. Guess in time that will come too.
Hang in there girls!

Okay I'm jumping in

Okay Okay I"m jumping in . I'll admit I've been lurking not just on this site but many others. I've recently just discovered the world of "blogging" and it's a wonderful addiction for me. So I guess the best thing or most polite would be to intrduce myself. My name is Bonnie and I'm from Sarnia , Ontario(on the border of Port Huron,Mic). I am 43 and I work part time for a great pediatric dr. I love my job it accomidates my life perfectly. Since I have had fibromyalgia for over 10 years and have become diabetic I have decided to try to lose the 20 lbs that have plagued me since the birth of the last (third) baby 11 years ago. I am going to try to change my lifestyle little by litlle , the first beith healthier choices not drastic dieting for everyone in my family. You see I have 3 boys 19, 17 and 11 and they constantly enable me not to mention my dh who knows how tired I am and its much easier to get take out . Now I'll conceed to making quickie suppers like eggs and KD but I put nutricious things with them ex. salad or cut up fruit.

So here goes my first things to get in order in able to help lose weight to bring down my blood pressure and stop me from having to use diabetic meds/insulin and to help my energy level is to make sure I drink water. I do drink lots because of the meds I am on but I will keep track. Which leads to my next goal . To keep a diary of what I eat, glasses of water and any exercise I do. I plan on trying to follow a diabetic diet loosely , although I keep track of my sugars I don't especially watch what I eat in consideration to this. Next is to really police what I eat at bedtime which is a killer time for me . Like I said before my husband is terrible for snaking at this time too . So I think thats enough of my yakking for now . Except to say good luck to everyone .

Involved at children's school

Gina, and everyone else too!-I am involved with my 16 yoDD's school by helping at track meets. She does indoor and outdoor track and I help officiate at meets. Sometimes I am a timer, sometimes I record, sometimes I help with high jump or long jump. I ran track and cross country when I was in high school and I love attending the meets. I sometimes help at 13 yo DD's school at Book Fairs. They have parents come into the school and man the check out table. I also work part-time, but my shifts vary so I can arrange my schedule to be at the kids events. One year I taught an after school knitting class to 6, 7 and 8th graders. We meet once a week for about 8 weeks. It was a lot of fun.
Danielle

What are you involved in?

Some of us work and some of us stay at home. I am a stay at home mom...who has time for a job? not me! What kinds of things are you involved in? I am heavily involved at school. I am on the set design and decorating committee for chorus events, the Chairperson of our Holiday Shop, the Co-Coordinator for the yearbook, and room parent in two classrooms. I try to help out wherever I can with the sports and have often been team mom, but as the kids get older, our teams haven't had team moms...bummer. I haven't posted much the past few days as I have been working on the yearbook...finally got the software to work on my computer. I have also been working on DH's Curriculum Vitae...big job, and playing with my Design Studio Software that has been sitting in my scraproom for a month and I have been afraid to open the box. I welded!!!! WooHoo! So, your turn, what are you involved in?

Gina

Where is everyone???

Hey girls!! One of the main rules to our new Cricut blog is that you cannot lurk. :) Come on and let us know you are here. We have 46 registered users now and I've only seen introductions from about 5. Please take a minute and post. Also, try to comment on other posts, too. We know you are out there and we would love to support you!!

Hope you all are having a great day!

What's for dinner??

Here's what I'm having....

A huge salad with lettuce, cucumbers, celery with 10 squirts of low cal dression. (0 pts!)
1/2 cup chicken breast (2 pt)
1/2 cup low sugar spaghetti sauce (1 pt)
1 cup cooked rotini noodles (4 pts)
5 garlic melba toasts (1 pt)

For a grand total of 8 points!!! I have only had 12 today so that is 20 pts! My goal is 20 so that is not bad at all!! Hopefully dinner will fill me up so I am not hungry later. Wish me luck!

Day 3!!

I'm officially on Day 3 of my "diet". Today has been the easiest so far. I wasn't starving after breakfast and lunch really filled me up. Here is what I ate...

Open faced ham sandwich with 4 slices of ham, 1 piece of whole wheat bread, and lettuce.
1 WW stawberry yogurt (only 1 point and totally yummy!)
1 apple

I don't know what I'm going to make yet for dinner so I'd better start thinking about that.

Hope you all have a great day! I need to get my water going and execise!

It's me again, Kathy O

Oaky Robyn I am posting to this blog instead of my others what's with that;).
It is so nice to know I am not fighting this battle alone and to know I have a place to go when I need to say something. I kept myself so busy yesterday, and I drank my water and Crystal light, need some flavor sometimes;).
But it went well, I also got rid of a task I have been putting off for months so today I feel fantastic, my Ds wants me to make some muffins now...I have a few more of those overwhelming busy work task I have been putting off and I am using them to keep me busy so I dont think about food. Cant wait to weigh at the end of the week and see how I am doing...
Off to drink water. and keep busy I'll check in tomorrow keep up the good work everyone. I have been working my way back on the post to catch up. so look for comments

Can't wait!!!

Hi everyone! My name is Cyndi (aka Stamper). I'm 51 years old. I've been married almost 10 years to my earth angel. Between us, we have 6 children and 11 grandkids. I was diagnosed with MS within the first year of our marriage. I don't know what I would do without him. Because of the meds I'm on, my weight immediately ballooned! Exercise is difficult because of the MS. I can still walk but only shorter distances. The minute my body begins to heat up, as in exersize, cleaning the house, etc., my legs & overall body strength is gone. I now have someone come in and clean for us. It is so frustrating! When I think of all the walks I didn't take when I could have..... Oh well..... I hope to lose the 50 pounds I need to by watching what I eat. I did weight watchers once and lost about 13 which I have kept off all but 5. I think with the inspiration from all of you.....I can do it! Looking forward to our blogs!

Last Night's dinner was so yummy!

A new dinner that I have started to make and DH loves it too. I cut up all kinds of fresh veggies into strips...peppers, asparagus, carrots, celery, tomatos, onions, portabella mushrooms..in the past little red potatos, but last night I forgot those. I lay them out on the Pampered Chef large bar pan. I brush two tbls. of olive oil over the entire thing and them sprinkle with seasonings...whatever you like. I used salt and pepper, Emerils Essence, garlic powder, thyme. Then put in the over at 400 degrees, I think I uped it to 450 part way through. Cook about 1/2 hour or so. Soooo good. Serve with whatever you like. I had it with salad and no dressing, because I just couldn't stop eating yesterday and wanted to keep my dinner calories low. I filled the entire plate.

Going to bed hungry

Just got off work at 11"30pm and I should be trying to sleep, but my stomach is growling! I thought I'd hop on here for a little bit to remind myself to be strong. My caloric intake is supposed to be 1500 a day, and I fell like that is way too low to satisfy my hunger. Maybe I just need to get used to eating less and my stomach will adjust. I did keep the calories down today, and I exercised a little so I feel good about that. -Danielle

Hello Cricut Sisters!!

Hi Everyone,
I am Joyce. Im 45 years old. I been married to my wonderful husband Keith for 7 years. I have a daughter, Brittany 21 years old. She is getting married in October so I am having a blast helping her to plan her wedding. We also have 3 shih-tzus and a beagle.
I love scrapbooking, I started about 10 years ago and I have yet to catch up all my pictures. Along with loosing weight I need to stay motivated to scrap..scrap..scrap!
I stay at home due to an accident that happened 6 years ago. I have really bad migranes that slow me down at times but I take it day by day.
I weigh 161. My goal weight is 140. Right now I do Jazzercise 6 days a week and 2 classes of body scultping. Today I started the "Know more Diet" that Jazzercise endorces. It teaches you how to eat the right foods along with the right portions. My biggest down fall is giving up soft drinks. I can live with out cookies but I love my soft drinks!
Im gonna give it my best shot though.
I think we have all made our first step by being here. Good Luck everyone!

Share your blog with us!!

If any of you have a personal or craft blog that you would like to share just post it here. I will attach it to the side bar with a link to your name. I love checking out my friends' blogs and it looks like we are all going to be very supportive friends, right??

Just put it in the comment of this post.

Thanks so much!
Robyn

Hello Everyone... just introducing myself :)

Hello Everyone... I am Sandy. I have been married for 17 years and have 4 sons. I just returned to work in December after being a stay at home mom for 15 years. I am a weight watchers member and joined in May 07. I am currently at a 15 lb loss. It's been a weight watcher yo yo ride for me. I go to meeting, count the points and then take time off. Well it's now 2008 and I really want to reach my goal weight this year. I had not been back to a meeting in 2 months and had gained 5 lbs.... so I feel I was lucky enough that it was not all 20 lbs I had lost.

I currently walk with 2 friends after work and on the weekends. I am proud to say that I walked all summer with my friends and lost a pant size without even doing the WW program. I truly believe that exercise is a must to lose weight.

I still have about 25-30 lbs to go...... but with this blog and your help.... I KNOW I CAN DO IT!

It's great knowing that us cricut sisters can scrap and lose weight at the same time!

Have a great week!

Sandy

Greetings from Arkansas

Hello Ladies,
I am Amy from Mabelvale, Arkansas. I am so happy to be here where I have so much in common with women I do not even know. I am 53 years old and to get right to the point of the matter I am 5' 4 and weigh 196. I have been yo-yoing with my weight since I was 29 years old. When I married my first husband in 75" I weighed 109 lbs. (I did not realize then how little I was, because I was always teased about having a big bootie, come on, how big of a bootie can a 109 pounder have?) Anyway I got pregnant 3 years after we married and I gained 50 lbs. I lost that 50 lbs. within 7 months and became pregnant again. ( my boys are 15 months apart and I would not have had it any other way) Anyway less than 4 years later I was down to 113 lbs.(Even then I would not buy me a bathing suit because I thought I was fat) Ha!! If I could only see myself then. Anyways ever since then I have gained and lost and gained and lost. So here I am again. I was down to 191 for just one day before the holidays hit and now I gained 5 lbs. back. I was suppose to get back on the wagon today, but I did not. Anyway my goal is to lose 50 lbs. I want to lose a pound a week. It seems to stay off longer than if I crash and lose a whole lot real fast. LOL, not that I could lose it real fast if I wanted to. I am glad to be on this blog because it will make me more aware of what I am putting in my mouth daily if I have someone to answer to or if know someone is watching. My downfall is water!!!! I am not much of a drinker. The only time I drink anything is with a meal. Then that is either tea or milk. I am not much on carbonated drinks, though I do drink them when we go out to eat. Well, I guess this is all about me for now. Thanks Robyn for creating this blog and thanks and good luck to my fellow Cricut sisters who are all on the same mission.

Hello everyone-

Hi, I'm Melissa. I've been married to Wayne for 4.5 years. We live in Iowa with our 2 dogs and 2 cats. We've been trying to conceive for about a year, which is why I've decided to get healthier. I've got some health issues that could make pregnancy difficult and I'm hoping that losing some weight could ease that a little. Overall I just want to adopt a healthier lifestyle before we bring a baby into it. I have lost 24 lbs since the end of October and have a goal to lose another 36 lbs by my birthday in June and then probably another 30 or so pounds. I've lost weight before, but always as the result of an illness or a side effect of a medication. I've never had to work for it before which is why I KNOW I'll be successful this time, I'm working way too hard for this not to be a lifestyle change.

I'm not following a specific plan, I'm just watching(and measuring) what I eat and exercising. I do cardio 6 days a week, either 2+ miles on the treadmill or a cardio dance DVD(for you DWTS fans, I look a lot like Billy Ray right now not graceful at all!!) at home, and light weights Mon, Wed and Fri. My fitness goal is to run (OK, jog) two 5k races this year.

Good luck everyone. Remember tomorrow is another day, if you "fall off the wagon" today get back on it tomorrow and don't beat yourself up for it.

Introducing Janine

Hi All...My name is Janine and I am married 18 years and have one wonderful 14 year old son. I have lost weight numerous times on Weight Watchers, which I am currently doing again. It has been the only way I have ever lost weight. I also enjoy collecting recipes. Another website you may want to view is Healthy Exchanges.com. I have many of the cookbooks, which have very easy, homestyle, and easy recipes. I need to lose about 50 pounds and really need to incorporate more exercise in my life. I have all the equipment, just lack the motivation. We all need as much support as we can get, not only to lose, but to stay motivated. I will try to include a recipe since that is what I really like. I just made this and it continues to be one of my favorites. It is an old Weight Watchers recipe.

Turkey Upside-Down Pizza

15 ounces ground turkey
1/4 cup celery, chopped
Dash of garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1-1/2 cups sliced vegetables of your choice, i.e. sliced mushrooms, chopped green pepper, diced
onions, etc.
2 cups tomato or pizza sauce
6 ounces mozzarella cheese
1 8-ounce can reduced-fat refrigerated crescent rolls

In a pan sprayed with nonstick cooking spray, saute turkey, celery, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Pour in a 9 X 13 baking pan. Top with your choice of options: i.e. green pepper, mushrooms, onions, etc. Evenly pour the tomato sauce over this and top with cheese. Unroll crescent rolls and lay over the top on cheese. Bake in a 350 degree oven for 30 minutes or until top is golden brown. Let sit for 5 minutes before slicing. Divide evenly into 8 equal pieces.

Each serving = 5 Weight Watcher points or
2-1/2 Protein, 1 Bread, 1 Vegetable


This is the only nutritional information I have for this recipe.

Hope you like it!

Good Luck to all!
Janine

Chicken & Swiss Salad

Okay this is my favorite Lunch salad when I am dieting...and my favorite homemade dressing for it:

Chicken Swiss Salad
Dressing:
1/2 C Plain Yogurt
2 T low fat Mayo
1 T parsley chopped fresh
or 1/2T dried
1tsp prepared Mustard
1/4 tsp garlic powder
Blend cover and chill
if you prefer you can add 1 tsp italian seasoning and omit the other seasonings

1 head lettuce
12 slices of green pepper
6 -1 oz slices of Chicken or Turkey
6-1oz slices of Swiss Cheese
6-slices of purple/red onion
24 slices of Cucumber 1/4" thick
12 slices of tomatoe

this makes 6 salads

I wedge the lettuce into 6 wedges, one wedge on each plate. sliced to 1/2" thick then top with 2 green pepper rings, 1 slice of cheese, 1 slice of onion, 1 slice of chicken, 4 slices of cucumber, 2 slices of tomato. top with 2T of dressing. Each salad is about 225 calories.
I cut the chicken and cheese into strips. and just make one salad each day. For variety I add a little spinach leaves for extra iron. and I have 1 slice whole wheat bread toasted no butter with the salad.

1st official weigh in

I just got back from my first official weigh in...I lost 3.4 lbs. I am now at 180 lbs. I was so excited that I went down to the workout room and walked 3 miles. I have a long ways to go, but if I do one step at a time, I will get there!

HI ,my name is Kathy!

Okay so I thought the diet and posting didint start until today....so I am behind on like everything....My name Is Kathy, I need to lose about 85-100 lbs...so pathetic I know...I have lost 85 lbs about 3 times but it keeps finding me again. When I get busy lazy or stressed which for me happens alot because I have 9 children. They range in age from almost 24 to almost 5...I have been married 25 yrs to the most wonderful man who couldnt gain more than 10 lbs if he tried....

I just want to be healthy, and feel good about myself. I actually started dieting last Monday, because that is what I told myself I would do since the fall when I started going to the health club three days a week...I do aqua aerobics there, I like it because it is low impact but still makes me work, it is easier to do in the water when you are heavy...like me. I have lost inches doing it but no weight...Go figure...

My goal this time is to lose the weight and KEEP IT OFF! so My goal is to add 2 days of walking on the tread mill at home to my routine...I did lose 6 lbs last week and I weigh 229 now.
Last time I took the weight off I got down to a size 12 and 147. so that is my goal since I have some nice clothes that size...

Danielle's Introduction

Hi,
I'm Danielle. I'm 48, been married for 25 years and have 4 children, DD 21, DS 19, DD 16 and DD 13. Oldest is in college, but is only 1 1/2 hours away and comes home each weekend to work. She can make a whole lot more money here than at school. DS is working construction, but is considering college options. 16 yo is a junior in high school and 13 is in 8th grade. I work part-time as a nurse in a small psychiatric hospital. I also do word processing at home for "fun money", and also demonstrate occasionally for local ACMoore doing yarns and paper crafting. I am 5' 2" tall and didn't hav a problem with my weight until I had a hyserectomy at age 39. I had problems with my uterus for a number of years before the surgery and was glad to get the surgery, but immediately afterwards I gained 30 pounds and have since put on 10 more. I have joined a group at church that began last week called First Place. It is healthy eating, exercise and support, while giving Christ first place in your life. It includes a weekly bible study too. Our diest is based on exchanges in each of the food groups and is similar to the American Diabetic Assoc. plan. I'm not sure I will lose all 40 of the pounds I gained, but that is my ultimate goal. I hope to lose at leat 15 pounds in the next three months. Thanks to Robyn for starting this blog to help keep us motivated.

Happy Monday

Hello Ladies:

Just wanted to wish you all a good week!

Happy the weekend is over, it's much easier for me to keep track of my points and what I eat during the week days.

Hope all of you have a great week and can't wait to hear of any weight loss you have or any other help/questions all of us on this blog can help you with!

**Sandy**

Monday, January 14, 2008

Hi All! I'm Claudette and I am 50 (soon to be 51), married (7 years in June) and have 2 sons (27 and 31). Both sons live in Hawaii and my oldest has 2 children (one of each) and my youngest has 1 son. So far my non-diet diet is working. I eat 4 - 5 small meals daily ... very reigmented, but ok so far. I've lost 2 lbs in a little over a week. No starvation, just satisifed at each meal ... not full. I also go to the gym 3 days a week and walk 2+ miles on those days. Next week I will add one day of circuit training back in and cut back the walk to only one mile that day. Hopefully this will boost my weight loss and start the firming up process. I hope to work up to three days a week with 2+ miles each day and circuit training each day. I need to lose 25 lbs and I know it will not happen overnight, but if I just stick to this there is a very good possibility that by year end it will be off for good. Good to see so many posts and so much support. I did some DSS this weekend and posted it on the cricut MB. I took "cut" files and tried to convert them to George only cut files so that people who only have the trial version of the software can cut out projects. There are so many talented people on that MB and they are truly inspiring! Everyone have a great day and a wonderful successful week at weight loss!

Claudette

Recipe

Classic Beef Chili
Servings | 6
HU's| 2
Course | Main Meals

Ingredients
1 lb. lean ground beef (10% or less)
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
2 tbsp. chili powder
1 tsp. ground cumin
1 can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes
1 can (15 oz.) red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 sweet onion, chopped
1/4 cup canned diced chilies
2 tbsp. tomato paste
Oregano sprigs for garnish

Instructions
1. In a large nonstick skillet cook beef and garlic over medium heat, stirring with a wooden spoon to break up meat, until browned; drain. Add chili powder and cumin; stir to combine.
2. Combine tomatoes, beans, onion, chilies, and tomato paste in slow cooker; stir in beef mixture. Cover and cook on High until flavors are blended, 4 - 5 hours.

Sorry, but I'm starving today!!!

I officially started my diet yesterday and did great but today I woke up totally starving. I just had 1 cup of cooked oatmeal with a little milk and splenda. Maybe I should have some yogurt, too. It's just food, I know I can overcome it. I need lots of your support today. Help me sisters!!

Signed,
Starving

Good Morning! We can't do it.

You may have read my post further down about the troubles we are having with my oldest dog, Max. I had an appointment for this morning for the vet to come over and put him to sleep. After church, we spent the day around the house, and Max just hung around all day. Last night, my DH was brushing him and clipping his nails in our bedroom. I looked at DH and quietly said...I'm having doubts. Dh's face dropped...he said that he had been having doubts ALL DAY. So, we can't do it. We probably should, but we can't. The kids just know that they have to stay away from him, unless DH is right there to let them pet him. We know that we may still have to do it, but he will need to be much worse off than he is now.
With that said, I don't think I ever formally introduced myself.
I am Gina, a mom to 5. 1st DD is 21, just graduated from college and is starting Grad. school this week to become a teacher. She lives in the area. 2nd DD is 19 and she lives in NC where she is going to school. If you have heard about a tragic accident in High Point where a 15 boy was killed by a pick up truck...my DD was there comforting the girl who was with him...I am so proud. 3rd DD is 17, currently living with her Dad...we have a very strained relationship...long story, but she basically ran away for more freedom. 4th DD is 10 and does wonderfully in school, has a huge heart, especially for animals. DS, finally, a boy, will be 9 in a couple of weeks...is extremely active and gifted in sports. My wonderful DH of 11 1/2 years is a HazMat Fire Chief in a large Fire Department. He is my best friend, and yesterday we had even more evidence that we are soul mates who think on the same level. I have been a SAHM for almost 11 years. I love it. I am very active at the kids school. I love scrapbooking and my cricut and I am a Creative Memories Consultant. I have never had a problem with my weight until Perimenopause started 8 years ago, when I was 35. I am on the long-term plan...still going through it, but it is getting easier. I lost 24 pounds once, but gained it all back with an extra 10. I am now at 149 lbs. I have lost 9 lbs. since November, but I joined Spark People last week. So far, I am eating better, but not losing any weight. Best of luck to all of us. I am sorry this is so long.

BIGGEST LOOSER

Hi to all. My name is Debbie and I have been married for 25 yrs and my husband and I both have fluctuated with our weight over the years. My husband is a diabetic and so weight control is a must. My lowest weight has been 145 and my highest @ 203. I now weigh 193 ( have gained 14 lbs since Sept. (when I lost weight to go on a cruise.)  I am a diet coke addict but have cut down to one a day and am now drinking water and tea. I am an RN and our hospital has begun a BIGGEST LOOSER program and I am a member of a 4 person team. We started just this past week. Hope to continue to loose and improve my health. GOOD LUCK to all of us " Cricut Sisters"

Just saying Hello

Hi my name is Mary. I'm mother to two wonderful young men, 32 and 28 and grandmother to one grandson, 10. I weight 182 lbs with high blood pressure and borderline diabetes. My doctor has told me I need to loose at least 10 pounds to start. So starting Monday I will be walking on my lunch hour. My goal is be there by the end of February.

This is all for now, I'll check in later in the week.



Oh by the way, I ordered a Cricut and I should be receiving it on Tuesday or Wednesday. I can't wait.



Mary

Time for a challenge!!

Okay, here is our very first challenge. Let's do something with our Cricut to take our mind off our diet!! Go and create something fun and then upload it for us all to check out. This should be lots of fun!!!

Remember to introduce yourself in a new post!!

Also, I'd love to see your recipes. Please share them with us! I'm starting a new blog just for our recipes and I will link it on here so it will be easily accessible.

Hope you are all having a great night!! I'm doing great on everything except the water today.

Intro from Amy

My name is Amy. I have been married 3.5 years to Brian. We have 2 daughters, 6 years old and 2 years old. We are currently living in a small town in Montana. I have been struggling with my weight since college, so that would be 16 years now. I did WW a few years ago and lost 20 lbs before my wedding. Then I stopped and gained all that back and then some. My town's rec center started a Meltdown challenge last week. The program is 10 weeks long. I thought this was a great time to start. I weighed in last Monday at 183 lbs and almost 40% body fat, I about died! The trainer helped me plan my workout during the week. On Mondays and Wednesdays, I will walk on the treadmill for 45 minutes. On Tuesday and Thursdays, I have a kickboxing class and then I go to a weight training class. I wasn't sure about the kickboxing class, but it has been fun and intense workouts. I also pulled out my WW books and have been watching what I eat. My biggest challenge will be cooking dinner for the family. According to DH there are 4 food groups: meat, potatoes, gravy and beer. He is a very picky eater. I would love any suggestions for meals. Good Luck to everyone! We can all do this!

any spark people out there?

Okay, ladies...has anyone checked out the spark people website yet? Look me up: ready2looseRG If you have looked it up, what do you think? Have any tips to share with me?

I forgot to introduce myself earlier...my name is Rochelle. I have been married to my incredible husband for 7 years! He bought me an expression for Christmas and I didn't even ask for one! Anyway, I have two beautiful little girls, 3 and 1. I have struggled with my weight since having kids. I can loose a good part of it and then I slack off and put it back on. I don't want to be on a diet this time. I want to change my lifestyle so that when I do finally get the weight off, I keep it off. I want my family to start eating healthier too. I have tried WW before and lost weight, but then put it back on. So I joined sparkpeople.com and am just working on eating healthier (right now I am counting calories on that website - this makes a big difference for me because I think about everything I put in my mouth - a chocolate chip cookie doesn't seem worth it to me if it is going to take up a lot of my calories and I'll be starving all day), drinking more water, and exercising (which has been hard for me so far with 2 little kids at home). I would gladly take any advice in this area.

I want to loose about 23 more pounds before this summer and I want to be in the best shape of my life before we go to Disney this fall! If any of you decide to join sparkpeople.com, I would love to hear from you! Good luck! We can do this!

It's Lunchtime!!

I'm still going strong! Here is what I ate....

Open-faced ham sandwich. Dry with 4 slices of ham, lettuce, only one piece of whole wheat bread.

1 Fugi apple

15 baked scoups chips

1 cup homemade salsa (I'll add the recipe, too)

How is everyone's day going??? I'm going to go and scrapbook (family history), and then I'll be back on later.

What's for breakfast??

Okay, since I officially am starting my diet today I thought we should share what we eat for each meal. Please include a recipe if you are making something for your family so we can all copy. :)

This morning I am having 1 cup of cooked oatmeal with splenda and a little milk. On WW that is worth 4 1/2 points. I am going to drink two cups of water before I leave for church.

Gotta go get in the shower. Church starts in 1 1/2 hours and I have 5 kids to get ready, too. Have a great Sunday everyone!

Elaine's Introduction

I live in Florida and work full time as a pediatric RN. Married to Robert (April 2001) and we have 2 lovely boys: Matthew (10/2002) and Andrew (11/2003). As you can see I have my hands full having 2 boys a year apart. My weight gain came when I had major surgery in 1996 and was put on steriods to reduce swelling. Then when I was pregnant I gained more weight and between pregnancies I didn't get the weight off all the way. Now I am at 170 pounds with a goal weight at 120. My goal is to lose at least 1 pound a week.

My husband and I have a challenge every week to see who can lose the highest percent of weight weekly and then the loser has to do a chore that the other one tells them to do. He is a diabetic that is very over weight. He isn't motivated so I have to make this "fun" for him.

We use to eat out alot because I knew of all the kids eat free days at certain resturants. Now I have decided that we should save that money and eat at home. I would like some quick health recipes.

Glad to be a part of this blog and have the support I need from other ladies who need to lose weight also!

Take Care,
Elaine

Hi to everyone

Hi I thought it would help if I introduced my self. My name is Jill I am married to a lovely irish man who is a firefighter, he is very supportive and loving. We have three lovely children who brighten up the dullest day. We all live in a small village in Scotland. I work part time at the local post office. I am grossly overweight, I try not to let it get me down but it does. The biggest problem is getting clothes not much of a choice in the UK. I am going to Florida on holiday in June so I would like to lose 2lb a week, which would be a big boost. Good luck ladies I know we can do it ( its going to hurt bad though)

Hi All!

Just thought I would introduce myself. I'm Mary Jean 51 years young, married for almost 23 years. Bob and I have no kids unless you count the furbabies...then I have 6...golden retrievers.

I need to lose weight...I've always had trouble with my weight...lol...maybe that had a little to do with being a bakery manager for 23 years...at least thats what I'm blaming it on!!!! So anyway...I retired last April...and the weight is not coming off... I finally realized that I need to get up and do something about it!

I'm not a water drinker...but have worked my way up to 6 glasses per day since I joined this group... I was a diet coke drinker...but have dropped from 4 or 5 a day to one. I also started going back to curves...made it there 3 times this week!

Hubby and I are working on the reward system...rather than cartridges I am wanting to redo my scraproom so I want to lose for things for my room! When we figure out the system I'll let you know so you can cheer me on!

mary jean

I've lost 5lbs this week!

I joined sparkpeople.com last week and I have already lost 5 lbs. This is a great website and the best part: it's FREE!!!! I do my own menu. I just add what I eat each day, but it does the math for you. It is very simple to use after a few days. Please go check it out! It's really simple and very helpful. It also has a whole recipe section and fitness section! Good luck!

No lurkers....... Anyone can post!!

I'm not sure if everyone is aware but you all can start your own post anytime you'd like!! I'd really like to get a community feeling here and become "Sisters" so we can help each other out. Take a minute and start your own post telling us your story and letting us know a little bit about you.

Can I just say how grateful I am already for this group?? Instead of starting my diet on Monday I decided to start it this afternoon. What a difference this is going to make. IT IS ONLY FOOD!!! Why do I have to let it rule my life. I can do it! It's all in my mind. Yes, I love to eat yummy things but I also need to treat my body better.

Tonight I went back to Kohls with my other DD to get her a dress, too. She couldn't have her sister getting anything without her, too, you know. Well, I went through the women's section and there were so many cute blouses that I wanted but I know that if I would have tried them on I would have started crying and gotten all depressed. I just made a decision then and there that I AM going to get some cute clothes but not until I lose some weight and show some self discipline!! It is all in my head!! I need to do something else instead of eat.

If you hear me wave your hands in the air!! LOL!

I'm here and checking in!

Last night the big surprise was that my DH took me to the George Strait concert and to a Bed and Breakfast Inn. He had a friend from church come over and she spent the night with our kids. I feel really spoiled. The seats for the concert were really good and the Inn was beautiful and very relaxing. I am very blessed to have a great DH.

When I returned this morning I took my 9 yr old DD shopping. We have never really gone clothes shopping and her clothes were just a little snug. We have noticed that she is very self concious of what she looks like. We never mention the word diet, fat, weight loss, or anything of the sort in our home. We say that we are eating healthier or trying to exercise to feel good. Well, when I took her shopping and we walked out of Kohls she was very quiet. I asked her what was wrong and she got a little emotional and said she felt bad that I spent so much money on her. I told her she was so worth it!! I just want her to feel totally confident and comfortable in her clothes. So maybe I won't get any extra cartridges this month but I don't care because she is so much more important.

Anyway, I am going to officially start on Monday with a fresh start. Wish me luck because I will need it.

Fell off the diet yesterday

I'm going to try to make a long story short. I have a 13 1/2 year old, very large German Shepherd. He has had pretty bad back legs for a long time. There are other signs of his deterioration, but I won't get graphic here. Anyway, I was always the one person that this dog would let do anything to him. When vets couldn't get him to cooperate, I could. Yesterday morning, I had someone coming over and he was blocking the front door. I put my hand under his collar to show him that I wanted him to go upstairs (something I have done hundreds of times before) and he reached around and bit my arm. Luckily I had on a long sleeve denim shirt, so he only broke the skin a little, but he kept chomping down and I am badly bruised, and swollen. Needless to say this has made our decision that he needs to be put to sleep. Very traumatic for the kids. My 10 DD is devasted and my 8 yr old DS is very angry with us...how could we do such a thing, he wonders. Anyway, I was out of commission all day. DH got Mcdonalds for the kids...I had fries and an apple pie. Uggghhhh. I didn't even get my water for the day. Thanks for listening. Sorry this is so long, but at least I can type today...couldn't yesterday.

Weight Loss Journal

Hi everyone!

Look what I made today! I actually had time to make something and even complete it! LOL It started out as a sprial notebook I found in the dollar bin at Michaels. Now I actually have to write in it!

How was everyone's day?? I hope you all have a great weekend!

Went to WW today

Hello Ladies!

Happy Friday. I finally went back to WW today and well I am up 5 lbs since 11/14. The leader's helper thought it would be best if I just started over since it has been almost 2 months. I thought it was a great idea at first, but I was close to my 20 lb loss and that just seems to go away if I start all over. So, next week I am going to ask that we continue from the weight loss I was tracking previously.

Anyhow, I hope to keep on track this week and get some exercise in as well! I'll be checking this blog to give and get support!

I just love the idea of rewarding ourselves with cricut cartridges. I sure hope they come out with some new ones soon!

Good luck to all of you and I know that we can lose weight together!

I wish all of you a happy Friday and a great weekend.

Sandy

Weekends are tough!

You know I can eat healthy all week but come Friday, Saturday and Sunday I find myself eating a little of this and a little of that or going out to dinner more. Also, I don't drink as much water and tea as I do during the weekdays. So any progress I make early in the week goes away towards the end of the week! Drives me Crazy that I do that!!!!

Shelly

Posted by LynnSl

I am back on WW starting Monday. My problem is at work. I sit at my desk and want to eat all day long. Anyone have any suggestions? I try to drink water and bring healthy snacks but most of the time the candy bug gets me.

My Weightloss Journal (by Robyn)

Okay, I am taking Kathy's advice and starting a journal to write down everything I eat and my thoughts on my diet. I just covered this composition notebook last night.

Cricut Cartridges...(by Rachel)

Ok on a side note....I was perusing the Scrapy Land site and low and behold, there are carts I have never seen! This is very scary and dangerous!! You know what's awesome and I don't know if you know this, but they offer a Lay-a-way program!!!! Ahhhh!!!!! Let's see, maybe I could put some on lay-a-way in anticipation of my weight loss! LOL Watcha think???

Small Truimphs (by Gina)

Last summer, I broke down and had my engagement ring resized...larger...I hated to do it, but I had just given up on losing weight. Well, yesterday, it almost fell off. The little person inside of me was screaming yea!! Then I heard, quick, switch with the band so you don't lose it!! Now, I realize that my finger is a little bit smaller just because of the colder weather, but my ring was very tight before I had it resized. I couldn't even wear it, and I only had it resized a half of a size larger.
So ladies lets hear some of those small triumphs!

Anyone can post!!!

I'm not sure if you all are aware but any of you on this blog can post a new post!! Let's make this fun for everyone!! Share a recipe, a creation you made instead of munchin', or anything!! Let's get this party started!

Thursday Morning Check-in

Hello Everyone!!!

Okay, I know I am not "officially" started yet but I have to say that I lost 4 pounds yesterday!!! I'm still fasting so I know this isn't really going to be my weight loss. Honestly I haven't been starving because I know that I can't eat or I will have complications with the procedure today. I think that if I just tell myself that when I start this diet that I am doing this for me and I just can't eat the way that I used to. I hope I understand! lol.

Check in with us and tell us how your day went yesterday. Was it easy, hard??? I'm leaving in 2 hours so I will check in tonight when I return. I am going to eat a very nice meal tonight since I have been starving myself but on Saturday I will make a plan.

Hope you all have a terrific day!

We're a private blog now!!

I just reset the settings to "private" so only those who are the blog authors (you and me) can post and read here. That way we can get as personal as we'd like and nobody can read it but us. Sound good???

My medicine kicked in about 2 hours ago so I am not feeling the best. I'm not super hungry if that means anything.

What did you eat today???

Gina had a great idea of posting what we ate today so I will start this post for today. Feel free to start a new post on any day that you don't see this one already.

Most of you know that I'm not offically on my diet today but I'm going to post what I've eaten because it is the best diet ever if you want to starve yourself, which I normally don't want to do!!

Because of my GI apt tomorrow I have had 2 pieces of dry toast for breakfast, and 2 cups of chicken broth for lunch. I've also had 2 liters of liquid so far (yucky)!!

What have you all had????

Journaling

Robyn asked me to make a quick post about what I do...
When I read that she said to write down a goal... It reminded me of what I have done to take off over 75+ pounds before...I have kept a journal...one to write in about how I feel about why I need to diet and how I am feeling about it and about myself. Write your goals in a notebook and keep it in a place and then go and read them everynight... I find that my reasons are very personal to me and that as the weight comes off what seems to have been negative switches to more postive thinking about the diet and about myself. I write in this journal everynight basically what my goal is and why, I hit personal reasons and feelings and health reasons and feelings. It helps to write everyday, its like talking yourself into what you want.(enabling) I also keep a chart in it of starting weight and measurements... then everyweek at first and monthly later I reweigh and measure so I can see the progress, I do not wiegh every day weight fluctuates way too much because of hormones and life stresses to get an accurate idea. I feel the journal is important because it helps you identify your feelings and how they effect your diet and exercise...so you can see a pattern and not beat yourself up about it...but make effective changes...I also lecture myself a bit like you will eat right tomorrow you know this is really what you want...etc...
We are what we think...we accomplish what we think we can.....
for this reason I also write 5-10 positive things about/for myself that help reinforce my efferts on the inside front cover. I can be thinner, I can have an effective exersize program, I am pretty, I am a good wife and mother...etc...take what ever negatives you feel and make them positive in a statement, even if you dont believe they are true... reading them to yourselves everyday always has helped me to feel more optimistic and have a change in my outlook...which I feel sometimes is the thing that makes us overeat and not take care of ourselves...It really is a simple step that we must do so we quit beating ourselves up...you'll find as you journal and read the positives your outlook will change and improve and you will be thinking more postive about yourself and you'll feel it and see it in your life.:)

We Can All Succeed!!!

Let's get started!!!

Okay, I'm not officially starting my diet until Monday but I am going to weigh myself today because of my medical procedure I am having tomorrow. I have to take major laxitives today so I will basically be on some sort of my own diet for the next few days. LOL.

Okay, I think lots of water is the main key to losing weight. I say that we should all try to drink 10 glasses a day!! Check in here when you have finished your water every day so we can all pat you on the back and feel your motivation!

Let's also share all our great recipes that are healthy and low fat. I am going to be using Weight Watchers as my main guideline but we all can share what we are doing and I know it will help. Good luck!!!!

So, today if you haven't already, write down your goals. Do you have a certain pair of pants you want to wear. Go try them on, have a good cry, and then get your self motivated to do it! I KNOW YOU CAN!!! I can, too!

Ready, set............................. GO!!

Welcome!!

I started this blog so that we all could have a support group of our Cricut Sisters. For me it is really hard to stick with a diet. I don't think I have ever weighed the same as I did before children. I have very bad eating habits and very low self esteem when it comes to wearing clothes. I would be happy wearing sweats and t-shirts everyday but I know I really shouldn't do that.

Here is my goal........... 35 pounds by this summer. Can I do it??? I think so. Here is how I am going to reward myself. First 10 pounds lost I will get a Cricut cartridge and then I'll get one for every 5 pounds I lose after that.

I would love to hear from you and your story. If you would like to be a member of this blog and be able to post, please let me know.