Week 14 Ends

Sunday, July 12, 2009

Fourteen weeks on track already! Yay!

Week 1 -1lb
Week 2 -2lb
Week 3 -1lb
Week 4 -0.4lb
Week 5 -2lb
Week 6 -1lb
Week 7 -lb
Week 8 -2lb
Week 9 -1lb
Week 10 -1lb
Week 11 -0.2lb
Week 12 -1lb
Week 13 +5lb
Week 14 -6lb

And that, hopefully, is the end of the large numbers of weekly weight change!

Today I went to three grocery stores and my kitchen is stocked with tons of healthy food! Summer is just the best for fruit, yay.

My workout included a quick 41 minutes at the gym, where I did chest, abs, and a 17-minute run. I didn't feel like that was enough of a workout, so I went for a bike ride even though my boyfriend didn't want to come with me. I don't like biking alone because my bike always has problems, even though it's relatively new and I get it tuned up. Grr! The chain fell off TWICE on my little 43-minute bike ride this evening. Maybe I switch gears too much?

Other than that, the biking was really fun. It's so much more comfy than running, especially when going downhill!

We went to Blockbuster today and each picked out a movie. I picked He's Just Not That Into You, which we just watched. It was kind of cute and funny, but it kind of bugged me the way they made it seem like any woman would just be so into any guy and it's all up to the guy whether or not he likes the girl. Sigh, I guess that's often true. Jess picked Donnie Brosco (spelling?) and we haven't watched it yet. I like girl movies more than boy movies. Hehe.

  

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

ZIRCADIA 7/13/2009 4:08PM

WOOHOO on being back on the weight loss track! :D I'd like to see He's Just Not That Into You sometime. Report Inappropriate Comment

KJNE8O 7/13/2009 1:39PM

All I gotta say is - 14 WEEKS!! THAT'S SO AWESOME! WOO HOO! Report Inappropriate Comment

CWRISTON1 7/13/2009 11:09AM

Congrats on the weight loss this week! Thats GREAT! I watched the "He's Not Into..." you movie at home on demand -- it was cute, but irritating at the same time just falling for whoever is available.... Anyway ~ this morning instead of running, I opted to ride my bike on the spinner and do abs while watching "New in Town". Love Renee Zellweger anyway ~ and it was very cute. I was laughing outloud, and that's not bad when you are trying not to remember that you're on a bike. The bike issues ~ never fun...there has to be a solution for it. Maybe the chain just needs tightened ~ nothing a quick tune-up couldn't fix, then you'd be on your way! Report Inappropriate Comment

SKYFYRE 7/13/2009 10:53AM

Wowzer! You have been working you butt off! Yay for getting to the grocery store and stocking up! Oh, and Donnie BRasco is SO intense if I remember it right, I really liked it! Um, well about the other movie, I unfortunately know a lot of girls who just hope and hope to be liked- no self confidence and often times it is up to the guy as to whether there is a future there. Sad! Report Inappropriate Comment

MBSHAZZER 7/13/2009 10:30AM

YAY for 14 weeks on track! And YAY for summer fruit! We're drowning in it. So funny about the movies... I HATE chick flicks and my BF loves them. But I really liked "He's Not That Into You"! I was surprised! He rented "Confessions of a Shopaholic" and that was too much for him! I couldn't watch! I had to leave the room! Report Inappropriate Comment

SEEHOLZ 7/13/2009 10:13AM

I wasn't into that movie much-- I saw it on the plane ride--- it seemed like all over the place... but, I liked the part where the brunette dumped the husband! So much for girl power! I'm with you on liking girl movies over boy ones, but not with you on renting from Blockbuster--- that store is dead to me-LOL! No clue about the biking thing, except that I get bored biking... by myself. Not, that I bike a lot, haha... You're doing FABULOUS and I'm super proud of you Susan! Let's make it a rocking week 15! Report Inappropriate Comment

RUN_LIFT_EAT 7/13/2009 10:03AM

That is craziness about your chain! Do you make sure to peddle quickly while you're switching gears? 14 weeks on track is awesome! We're going into week two, but I was not that good over the weekend. I was kind of bad, actually. That movie sounds like it would irritate me, too. I haven't heard of the boy one, but I'm with you I can get into a good (bad) chick flick! Another thing that bugs me is when we're supposed to pretend that gorgeous women are only mediocre looking, like 30 Rock, I LOVE that show, LOVE Tina Fey, but we're supposed to buy that she is only marginally attractive and bit chubby? Really? So if that is what constitutes "okay and chubby" then someone like Susan Boyles may as well end it all, right? And yet leading males can be fat and misshapen and gross and they still get the hottie. Stupid. Report Inappropriate Comment

FITGIRL15 7/13/2009 8:32AM

Your chain might have a few issues: 1) Is it adequately lubricated? If not it may be stiff and not properly making it's connection to the bigger gears. 2) Are you cross-chaining a lot? (trying to get into a gear that puts too much stress on it, like in the big ring in the front, and the small ring at the back or vice-versa?) Try to AVOID these gears. 3) Derailleur malfunction. If you get it tuned up often, this shouldn't be the problem, however, when they tune your bike, it is WITHOUT you sitting on it... and by adding the forces of you sitting on the bike and applying different pressure to the pedals and in turn chain, it can cause it to jump off the cassette when changing gears. I have had many very well used bikes so I've experienced ALL SORTS of fun (sarcasm) chain problems! I hope you can easily solve your problem! Congrats for getting back on track! SWEET!!! Report Inappropriate Comment

PRAIRIEDAWNPAM 7/12/2009 10:53PM

Wednesday is our grocery shopping day. Other than strawberries, we really haven't indulged in fruit this summer. Being from the Canadian prairies, there aren't many local fruits to enjoy but I really think we need to check out the BC fruit stands this week. Thanks for the reminder. I hope you enjoy the other movie. I haven't seen either. Our last rentals were really old ones that you've probably already seen, but we saw Transformers 2 in the theatre (the guys liked it, I could have passed) and Hangover (totally hilarious). My weight fluctuates a lot, too. I try not to get hung up on it. The tape measure and the fit of my pants is a better indicator for me than the scale. Hang in there. ...Pam Report Inappropriate Comment

BRUIN2 7/12/2009 10:28PM

You went to three grocery stores?!?!?! WOW. I like girl movies too - but T never rents them (ok, hardly ever); and he "controls" the Zip account (like netflix, but canadian. ha). Oh well. Good luck with the bike! Report Inappropriate Comment

Let's Go Red Sox!

Saturday, July 11, 2009

This is going to be one of those boring blog entries where I just write what's been happening lately. You've been warned.

Yesterday was my first day back under 150 pounds since the binge last weekend. Today I was at 148.0 - even lower than pre-binge - and just eight pounds from goal - YAY!

Yesterday I went to the gym just for lower body, and then went for a 56-minute run/walk outside in the city. There was a lot more walking than I had anticipated, but that's because my phone kept ringing! My friends had been talking about going to a Red Sox game, but I hadn't expected to actually get tickets until I got a three-way phone call from a friend and my boyfriend, and they told me to hurry up and finish my run because we were going to the game!!

So I was in such a rush that my dinner was a yogurt and apple. How's that for healthy!? But then I had a bunch of drinks, which is UNhealthy, but quite fun I must admit. Over the course of 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. I had: 1 shot of mamajuana (at my boyfriend's, which he bought last time we were in the Domican Republic, and it's rum steeped with honey and spices in case you were wondering, I may be spelling it wrong too), 1 shot of vodka with lemon juice, 2 red wines, and 1 Miller Light. Then I realized if I kept drinking I'd have a hangover, so I switched to water stat and woke up without any pain this morning!!

At the game, my friend who says she wants to lose weight had two hot dogs and some popcorn. And wine, like me. And then she had more drinks and another hot dog afterwards. I feel sad for her...she actually has a SparkPeople account, but she never uses it. She signed up for a 5K with me but didn't train and didn't show up on race day. But yet I know she wants to lose weight! She was very upset because she suddenly and unexpectedly lost her job. She LOVED her job and it was a huge part of her identity. They fired her for some stupid thing and she didn't deserve that; we think they just wanted to eliminate her because her salary was so high. And now she can't even get an interview anywhere else once other companies find out she was fired. So I didn't talk about the weight issue - I figure she has enough on her mind right now. And besides, I figure all I'd do would be to annoy her if I talk about losing weight. When she is ready, she will do it, and she's obviously not ready right now.

Another friend who was out with us was actually on a first date. A first date at a baseball game - that's pretty ballsy, huh? (Pun not intended.) That's three hours you're committing to hanging out with a person that you may or may not like! They met on plentyoffish.com. He came out with us after the game and seemed cool enough.

Today my boyfriend and I went for a nice walk in one of my favorite parts of the city - around Jamaica Pond. It's along the route to/from his place to mine, so I stop there a lot for walks and jogs. I did some jogging too, but he doesn't "do running" so I was on my own for that. Then we went to a store where I determined, to my dismay, that my ring size is 7. WAH! I have such fat fingers. I thought I was smaller. At least I know...I just hope my ring fits me consistently after I get it...I don't want my size going up and down all the time. Then we went to the gym where I did back, shoulders, and 20 minutes of elliptical, and then I came home and had a nice dinner of salmon burgers and Italian wine. My fridge is almost empty - tomorrow is going to have to be grocery shopping and batch cooking day.

Now it's time to enjoy my boyfriend and some Sox on TV...and maybe a movie. Cozy Saturday night in. :)

  

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

SEEHOLZ 7/12/2009 8:20PM

Cool that you got to enjoy the game and even though your boyfriend doesn't do running, he sure works out a lot with you or around you. I wouldn't take that for granted- I think you got a sweet deal there... plus, there is ALWAYS rooms for change-- timing is everything! The fat friend--- my friend got really fat and I was worried about her ( because she smoked a lot and it might be a sign that she simply isnt' taking good care of herself), but it's like I know there was nothing I could do--- she had her reasons. She used to be the skinny one and I used to think===WOW=== I am the fat one, but now, it's like I'm the normal one, even though I'm anything but skinny. Anyways, until she comes to me and asks, I don't go there. Even if I couln't help her with the eating part, because I need to lead by example first, I would be great in helping her with her fitness--- and once she asked me to be her personal trainer, I was ready for her, but same type of thing--- she didn't show up.. so that's that. People have to be ready and all we can do as friends is be there when they need us! Have a great week! Report Inappropriate Comment

KENSINGTONC 7/12/2009 1:55PM

I really like this post - gives us a glimpse into your life - you seem so happy! Report Inappropriate Comment

MBSHAZZER 7/12/2009 12:46PM

Mmmm all those drinks sound DELISH!! Funny you mention mamajuana.. I have had a bottle of it since our office Xmas gift exchange last year and have not cracked it open... I may have to get on that! Sounds like a really nice weekend! Report Inappropriate Comment

VIVA_VICTORIES 7/12/2009 11:02AM

I'm impressed that your description was a day in your life and it sounded like you did so much!!! I think I need a nap from just listing to your day. And my ring size is 6 1/4, so I think you're fairly average with your size. It's those freak girls out there who advertise their size 4 rings that make us feel bad. When actuality, I like my bigger fingers for grabbing clothes off a sales rack before them because their hands can't hold anymore, or for lifting weights because it hurts their delicate hands! Report Inappropriate Comment

RUN_LIFT_EAT 7/12/2009 10:03AM

Okay, this is one of my "Susan's blog is personal share time moments" you've been warned. Ring size WEEEEEEEEEE!!!! It is getting more real!!!! I have no idea what mine is? I think it might be a seven, Jake is saying 6 1/2? So yeah I don't think 7 is big, Susan, b/c of all the body parts I pick on my fingers are fine, so I am pretty sure you're good there ;)! That said the size does fluctuate, in the winter they slide around, after Sushi they are like cutting into me, kind of annoying. I think it was more ballsy to bring a guy you met online out with your friends for your first date? I don't know why but that seems risky. Re: the friend that wants to lose weight - but apparently through magic or witchcraft. Yeah, you can't tell her anything. People don't want to hear it. I used to try and offer advice but it just pisses people off so now I just look sympathetic and nod while they are chugging beer eating a burrito and saying they can't lose b/c they don't have time to workout. My SIL, this is sad, has put on a lot of weight, probably 70-80 pounds in the 3 years they have been married, she is my age, her husband is 40 works out like a fiend and watches what he eats, she tells us anytime we'll listen how she can't help that she gained because of some medication she is on, which may be part of it, I know prozac made Jake and me gain, hence why I stopped taking it but Susan, when we go out to eat with them she orders an appetizer and an entree, she shares the ap with her husband but eats the entire entree, yesterday at lunch my MIL (of course) had too much food out so Jake, his brother, and I each got about a tablespoon of the sides and ate our turkey burgers sans bun. My SIL ate a bun and went back for a plate full of seconds as well as dessert, but apparently that has nothing to do with it. Not even my FIL went back for seconds?!?! I felt bad for her too because when we all got there my MIL comes running over and goes really loudly "Kim! You look like a fashion model!" and my FIL is like, "Yeah, you do!" Which naturally I was tickled pink, but I also felt bad because it was right in front of her and she got no similar greeting. That liquor sounds good, girl! I have never heard of it. . . hmm I sense a mission. I want to try and infuse some vodka. I planted roses and lavender, rose/lavender infused vodka? I have to admit that if I know I am going to be drinking a lot I will purposefully eat really light to save calories, I know, I know not supposed to do that, but a girl has got to do what a girl has got to do and sometimes that means eating chugging a slim fast on the way to the bar, I'm just saying. Lastly, congrats on being so close to goal! You have worked hard for this, not relying on magic or witchcraft ;) and I hope you are LOVING IT! I know you're looking FABULOUS! Is there a massive shopping trip planned at goal? Oh and for the record I love blogs from my friends who talk about what is going on with them, I love the fitness ones, too but I almost think these are more fun :) Report Inappropriate Comment

SKYFYRE 7/11/2009 9:46PM

Hey Hey Hey --- I am a ring size 7. I bet your fingers look totally normal :) No more self criticism! You are doing SO GOOD! I want you to give yourself a pat on the back- 148, no hangover, likely "in range" yesterday, not spazing about an inpending engagement, and holding out on your urge to save your friend.. So I cannot believe that we are 148 today! Yay for us! The scale WILL continue to go DOWN! I will it SO! Hahaha! Well, I am about to go out and commit diet suicide- I am going to an Italian restaurant, if I eat at my high range I have 1000 cals to go! Woohoo! Have a great night! Whatcha batch cooking?? Report Inappropriate Comment

Valentine's Day?!?!?!?

Thursday, July 09, 2009

**DISCLAIMER - I'm not technically engaged yet, still. My boyfriend said to me that buying a ring takes a little longer and is a bit more involved of a procedure than he'd originally thought, but I'm not allowed to ask any questions because he wants there to be some semblance of a surprise.**

So, this evening my boyfriend, Jess, talked me out of having a destination wedding. He has three living grandparents, two in their late 80s and one in her 90s, and we want them to be able to attend. Plus, if we have a local wedding, then we can have a destination HONEYMOON, and get to enjoy it minus all the relatives. :)

So then Jess absolutely SHOCKED me by saying that he'd started to look at wedding venues online at work today!!! Even though it was just 10 minutes, I cannot believe he has done more wedding research than I have! I'd really love to have something special and unique about our wedding - having it in the function room at the Holiday Inn or something makes me CRINGE. The place he found is like an old New England Inn, which might be nice. I don't know.

But then we started talking about when this would happen. I'm a teacher, and I really want this wedding to fit into my school schedule with minimal days off. He said his preference is during my February vacation - at the beginning of it, during the long weekend (I think it's President's Day??). We could do it that Sunday and then go off on our honeymoon somewhere nice and warm. (We always go somewhere nice and warm during my February vacation, but for this we could actually go somewhere NICE and not "budget friendly" for a change, haha.)

So I looked up when my February vacation was, and guess what!! That Sunday that he suggested for our date just happens to be VALENTINE'S DAY! I started squealing like an obnoxious pig when I made this discovery, but my boyfriend thought it was horribly cheesy. Would it be so bad to have it on Valentine's Day and play that up a little...a red velvet sash on my dress or something??

I realize none of this has anything to do with diet and exercise and all those things I usually try to blog about, but it has already gotten me thinking...of course every woman wants to look her absolute best on her wedding day, so I can really use this as motivation to get in my best shape ever, and does this mean changing my goal weight yet again?? It's all too preliminary to make any decisions, but I'm just so overwhelmingly excited and happy.

Also, my mom told me that Jess' mom emailed her saying, "I heard there's going to be another wedding in the family soon - congratulations to us!" And that means that Jess talked to his parents. This is really happening soon. Teehee. I have been waiting for this for SO LONG.

  

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

SKYFYRE 7/11/2009 4:28PM

OMG! OMG! OMG! You are So gonna get engaged SOON, like momentarily! Hahahaha! I love your Valentines Days ideas, and so what if we are cheesy, no one will ever forget your Anniversary, and I bet everyone will come, what's more romantic than a wedding?! OK, I need to simmer down, it's not like I'm getting married! Well, Congrats again girlie, I am so happy for you! Report Inappropriate Comment

SEEHOLZ 7/10/2009 4:47PM

I can FEEL the excitement! And I love the idea of Valentine's day--- hello, not everyone has to get married in the summer... I also think you need to get your booking in- NOW- or you might end up at the Holiday Inn.. haha.... and that would make me cringe, as well. How nice of Jess to want to include his grand parents-- that says a lot about your man! Really, he's an architecht? I guess I never knew that. Who cares if this blog is about YOUR wedding... it could be about your toe nail and I'm sure I'd still want to read it. I think he is 100% ready to be your hubby--- and too cute about picking out the ring and taking his time to find THE right one! Report Inappropriate Comment

FITGIRL15 7/10/2009 4:36PM

YAY!!! That's awesome and exciting news, Susan! I can't believe your fiancee (is he even that yet???) has done more wedding research then you... for me it's like PULLING TEETH to even get him to discuss it with me! And we ARE officially engaged already!!! AHHHH! I hope eveything comes together for you, and you get the venue you want! V-Day would be the PERFECT day to get married... that or Halloween! LOL Report Inappropriate Comment

BOOTS1221 7/10/2009 3:28PM

Yayyyy!! I'm so excited for you! Even though you're technically not engaged yet, it's so close we can all tatse it! haha I think the idea of having it on Valentines Day is super cute & romantic, and it just happens to fall on the exact day you were thinking to plan it anyway! Go with what your heart thinks. This will be YOUR day and it should be perfect for YOU!!! Report Inappropriate Comment

VIVA_VICTORIES 7/10/2009 2:36PM

Congratulations!! I'm recently engaged and getting married next month. I am however having the destination wedding. If that's what you really want, I worked the angle that the wedding was just for us and we could come back and have a big party with tons of people. It wasn't a hard sell on my man though, we're both very private. But you know, it's not for everyone. With that being said: CONGRATULATIONS AGAIN!! Whatever you decide to do will be the perfect thing. (I get really sick of people always having a comment on how I'm doing my wedding instead of just being happy for me. So I hope you get absolutely everything you want!) Report Inappropriate Comment

MBSHAZZER 7/10/2009 10:42AM

YAY, this is awesome news! I don't think a V-day wedding is cheesy at all... think of all the romance in the air you'll get to harness! Keep us posted! Report Inappropriate Comment

RUN_LIFT_EAT 7/10/2009 9:06AM

That is awesome! How long have you guys been together, again? I think that a Vday wedding would be really cool, here is why, apparently you usually have a break around that time so anytime you wanted to take a weekend anniversary trip you could, 2) You'd never forget your anniversary, 3) You wouldn't feel compelled in any way to acknowledge the Halmark aspects of the "holiday" because you would have something legitimately romantic to celebrate. But girl if you guys are going to try and book something on V day you had better get started STAT! PS: I got married in a gorgeous old antebellum home. Loved it! Especially since I am not religious but my parents are (and I am a closet agnostic) it was a good compromise, minister in a non-religious venue. Good luck I know you and your architect will pick something spectacular! Report Inappropriate Comment

ELFITZPA 7/10/2009 8:18AM

OMG who CARES what day you get married - it could be Valentine's Day or April Fool's Day - this is awesome!!!!!! I'm so excited for you! And I love that Jess is getting involved with the planning so early on. I hope to be joining you soon! Report Inappropriate Comment

TMAC10 7/10/2009 6:36AM

wow this is so exciting! for as long as i've known you in "blog" land i know this has been something that's been in your mind for awhile! i'm so glad that is finally falling together and becoming real. who cares what anyone else thinks about your wedding being on valentine's day. i personally love valentine's day & everything about it. not so much just the "romantic" type of love that it celebrates but the love for everyone. so i think it would be a fantastic and sweet way to celebrate. also, this will be great motivation for you as well! congrats! Report Inappropriate Comment

TMAC10 7/10/2009 6:36AM

wow this is so exciting! for as long as i've known you in "blog" land i know this has been something that's been in your mind for awhile! i'm so glad that is finally falling together and becoming real. who cares what anyone else thinks about your wedding being on valentine's day. i personally love valentine's day & everything about it. not so much just the "romantic" type of love that it celebrates but the love for everyone. so i think it would be a fantastic and sweet way to celebrate. also, this will be great motivation for you as well! congrats! Report Inappropriate Comment

JENONTHEROX 7/10/2009 1:28AM

awwwww how EXCITING for you!!! It may not have to do directly with diet & workouts but it is a part of your life & as you wrote, I'm sure the influence of health & fitness will kick in eventually in your preparations plan... all a part of life. People just love to hate Valentines Day, don't they. . . Report Inappropriate Comment

TERRIANGEL 7/10/2009 12:41AM

YAY YAY YAY YAY YAY YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAYYYY YY!!!!!!!!!! He loooooves you! (did I mention "yay"??) Report Inappropriate Comment

CREATINGMYSELF 7/10/2009 12:05AM

Aww.. you must be so anxious for all of this to happen finally! Report Inappropriate Comment

BRUIN2 7/9/2009 11:18PM

Whhheeeeeeeee!!!!! How exciting!!!!! Can I just say that the Valentine's Day wedding - while super romantic for you and Jess, may really cramp the style of many of your guests... I can see some being super excited to spend Valentine's Day at a wedding, the epitome of love. But others being annoyed that they have to celebrate *your* love instead of theirs... Know what I mean?!? (I don't mean to burst your bubble - just throwing a thought out there) We had our wedding at the community centre right down the street from T's family's house... I had never been inside it, but I knew that's where I wanted it to be held! Check out the pics on FB - I loved having two levels (friends watched the ceremony from above, family was on the main floor with us), and loved that it wasn't "just" a ball room. Anyways, try your very best to let the engagement be a surprise!!!!!!! WHHHHHEEEEEE EEEEEEEEEE!!! Report Inappropriate Comment

KENSINGTONC 7/9/2009 11:12PM

I don't think it matters one bit if the wedding is on V-day or Halloween...and BONUS, he'll never forget your anniversary! (Though not to rip on men - my husband remembers special days better than I do!) Report Inappropriate Comment

PRAIRIEDAWNPAM 7/9/2009 10:59PM

How exciting! And yes, a wedding most definitely has lots to do about Sparking. That's what brought me here. I had a dress that I couldn't get into. Here's to you looking and feeling your best in yours, whatever it looks like and whenever you wear it. I don't think Valentine's Day or any day is cheesy for a wedding if the couple is truly in love and good for each other. ...Pam Report Inappropriate Comment

ZIRCADIA 7/9/2009 10:48PM

I think it'd be adorable to have a Valentine's Day Wedding!!! You'd have an extra good excuse for making every Valentine's Day suuuper romantic. :) But it does mean one less day a year for lovey dovey presents and whatnot cause you're combining anniversary and Valentine's. :) hehehee. You will look beautiful on your wedding day because you're healthy and fit, no matter what exact size you are, you will glow because you are not only healthy and fit but also in love. No woman can look more beautiful than having those things in her life. :) I'm so excited for you!!! WHEEEEEE It's so cute that he was researching this and thinking about it already. :) Report Inappropriate Comment

MARATHONER340 7/9/2009 10:44PM

Awwww!!! Definitely don't ask too many questions so the engagement is a surprise...I TOTALLY made the mistake of ruining my surprise...by asking about it all the time...granted he still managed to somewhat surprise me...but I just had this feeling...the night he was doing it...and then I was so mad at myself for knowing! Cuz it woulda been so much cooler if it completely took me off guard! ok, that's my story...can't wait to hear yours! =) WHENever that may be. Report Inappropriate Comment

PAMELA984 7/9/2009 10:34PM

How exciting! Report Inappropriate Comment

Tuesday Check-In

Tuesday, July 07, 2009

Since I last checked in, I've been dropping a pound or two each day from the recent wedding binge weight gain, and I'm back down to 151 today. At the end of Week 12 (Sunday, June 28) I was at 151, so in theory, if there had been no binge and I'd continued to lose a pound a week, I would have been at 150 at the end of Week 13 (Sunday, July 5), so this coming Sunday, July 12, I'd be at 149. It's entirely possible that I'll still hit that number by that date, and that would mean I'd be getting past this little bump on the weight loss graph without it affecting my pace of loss at ALL! But, I won't fret if I'm slowed down a bit, either.

Yesterday was the first day of summer school and I had a bad case of the Mondays. I ate at the top of my calorie range and didn't make it to the gym - had a pretty slothful afternoon actually. Thank goodness my boyfriend wants to go to the gym with me tonight, so I'll be sure to definitely make it over there. So far this afternoon has been just as slothful as yesterday. Summer school ends at noon, and the teachers stay and plan until around 1, give or take 20 minutes, so I need to not let myself settle into a routine of coming home, having lunch, and then vegging on my computer all afternoon every day. I need to get out and enjoy summer!

On the other hand, yesterday was the first full day off from exercise I'd had in a long time - can't even remember when the last day off was before that. My legs were still happy-sore from lower body strength training on Sunday, which I loved because usually I don't feel anything in my muscles the next day anymore. I'm trying to mix up my moves and reps more now, and I think it's paying off in terms of giving me tougher workouts and hopefully it'll help me avoid overuse injuries in the future.

Since yesterday was the first day of summer school I saw a lot of people - parents and teachers - I hadn't seen in a while. I got a lot of "You look good" or "You look like you've been keeping the weight off" comments, and I think people just SAY that sometimes. When I first started losing weight I got so many comments that I really believed it - people could see a difference. Although I loved the comments at first, they got old fast, especially when they started switching from, "You look great!" to "Don't lose any more. You're starting to look too thin. I'm worried about you." (That annoyed me SO much. I was the healthiest I'd ever been, but people were WORRIED about me?! Why weren't you worried when I was overweight and unhealthy?)

But those types of comments stopped a long time ago, and now I get the kind that people were giving me yesterday - the generic "You're looking good!" type. I know it's just pure politeness because I'm still borderline overweight and much thicker than I was when I was at my lowest, 134-140. I guess anyone who has been on the weight roller coaster has dealt with the different types of comments - I can only imagine what people must say to annoy Oprah! :) Honestly it wasn't that annoying, but I've just learned to take what people say with a grain of salt. Only I know when I'm really at a size that is best for me.

  

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

KENSINGTONC 7/9/2009 7:28PM

Based on this blog of yours, I think I would like you very much in person. :-) Report Inappropriate Comment

TAMM22 7/8/2009 11:44PM

No worries babe...you are doing fantastic!!! But it is interesting how we tend to think too much about what other people say...our bad!!! Report Inappropriate Comment

CARILOUIE 7/8/2009 7:38PM

I feel as if the people who make the comments like "you don't need to lose anymore; you're so thin already" are the ones who have weight issues themselves. I don't think those people would say something like that to a person who has been thin all their life. One of my mom's friends asked me how much I lost; I told her I'm on my way to my goal, and she said "you don't need to lose any more! You look good now!" This coming from a woman whose daughter is a teeny tiny size 0 marathon runner. I think it's because nobody is used to seeing me thin. Maybe it looks strange to them. Anyway, I think you are doing great. Us Sparkers will celebrate every pound lost even when others don't. Spark on! Report Inappropriate Comment

ELFITZPA 7/8/2009 5:45PM

You just made me think about the things I used to say to my BF (long before we were dating) when he was in the process of losing 100lbs. I think people tend to lose weight in their faces quickly - I know my BF looked kind of gaunt about halfway through his loss but looks fine now - which is probably why you got the comments about not losing anymore. And face it - you're looking at yourself very skeptically and are looking to get a lot closer to "perfection" (whatever that means) than anyone else thinks you need to be. I'm sure the comments get old after awhile, but we live in a world of quick fixes that are often followed by quick relapses. People probably really ARE impressed that you've maintained! Report Inappropriate Comment

THEGR8LAMINA 7/8/2009 2:42PM

I get what your saying about having to listen to ppl say that you look too thin just because you've changed your life to include working out and shedding some weight. I'm short, i'm like barely 5'2'' and a size 6 and ppl still assume for some reason that I weigh like 100 lbs. NO it's more like 128.8 and I need to get back down to the low 120's. I still have a lot to loose in my eyes and then maintain. Maybe we just carry our weight a little better? I always took it as a compliment that ppl assumed I didnt weigh as much as I did but still I don't like hearing ppl tell me what they think of me loosing weight if its not positive. I hope you don't let ppl's comments get to you. earlier this year i was at my all time high 137 and I had a handful of people ask my husband if I was pregnant! ha! I was so pissed off mostly bc the ppl who asked were ppl we hardly know adn who are very overweight. ha ha My first thoughts were shut up you're like 400lbs I don't ask you if you're pregnant with sextuplets! I ofcourse didnt say anything and just walked away. Some people are just nosy and annoying! ha ha Report Inappropriate Comment

SKYFYRE 7/8/2009 1:58AM

Hmm, you have made me think about someof the comments I get and they can be really irritating but when I think about who they are coming from they are people who mean me no harm, so I think I will just let 'em roll off! Way to get tot he gym to meet your goals! Glad you have the uber supportive boyfriend, very cool! Report Inappropriate Comment

TRACYZABELLE 7/8/2009 1:40AM

keep on slimming ... you can do it Report Inappropriate Comment

TERRIANGEL 7/7/2009 9:11PM

You're too funny. Sayin' it like it is. I get so aggravated at the peeps who i think are "just saying it" too. Like, if you're lying to my face now, why would I believe you any other time? HA! But you really ARE keeping the weight off - or at least getting back to where you feel comfortable. I mean, wasn't it you who said a mere few weeks ago that you were back in your size 4 jeans? Hmmm?? You should be proud of yourself. I hope you are. You're doing really, really great!!!! And I"m not just saying that. Report Inappropriate Comment

JENONTHEROX 7/7/2009 8:57PM

I really think because talking about weight in social settings is sorta-kinda taboo, people really just don't know what to say. While I certainly have never had the "you're too thin" comments, I do think it's nobody's business (except maybe a close partner/someone who loves you). I think generally people know their "healthy" weight & knowing signs of extremes like not menstruating anymore can be trouble. Anyway... the funniest comment I had the other day at work (without me even saying 'boo' to the person) was "oh, you're still doing it..." (referring to exercising/getting healthy). I definitely laughed... yeah, I'm STILL freaking doing it. Lifestyle baby! Ugh... Report Inappropriate Comment

BRUIN2 7/7/2009 8:25PM

Have a blast at the gym tonight! Have fun finding a summer routine that works for you! (And I'm sitting here in a sweatshirt and shorts - yep, it's cool enough here to wear a sweatshirt. hehe. Your blog comment made me laugh!) Report Inappropriate Comment

RUN_LIFT_EAT 7/7/2009 7:25PM

Well, I wouldnt assume that it is pure politeness, seriously! You DO look GOOD! And MANY of us have yo yoed, in fact, I daresay that most of the folks who haven't yo yoed and are over the age of 18 have just been on a steady UP! So they probably really mean and envy you for going at it. OMG, such a good point about people not being worried about you when overweight?!! What the hell? I swear we have the most disordered society when it comes to weight from one extreme to the other. I meant to comment to you about this the other day and forgot. Speaking of yo yoing, I know you have done it in the past, which is why you were setting an attainable and realistic goal, but you mentioned maybe shooting for 138 b/c of that glycogen whatever the hell it was. I was going to say that perhaps you should just kind of keep doing what you are doing as long as it still is seeming reasonable and EASILY doable and see where your body sticks. If you find you are at, say 136, then I would STOP and ease off and gradually adjust to maintenance rather than keep going since you mentioned your body is good at losing but maintenance has been a struggle. This is just my guess but it seems like your approach and all the self discover you have been doing along the way you have really done this the right way so I don't see maintenance or extreme loss being as big of an issue (hopefully), That being said, part of your self discovery is that your body rocks at losing, hence why I say go ahead and stop at like 136 if it seems to keep going, but if it sticks before then I wouldn't fight that, either. Does this make any sense or did it get way too long? Report Inappropriate Comment

VIVA_VICTORIES 7/7/2009 6:08PM

I'm actually trying to start a summer routine. instead of getting out and then lounging around, I either hit the gym before or after and I call that my routine. So sometimes settling into a routine can be a good thing!! But man, those days off at home are so nice! Report Inappropriate Comment

FITGIRL15 7/7/2009 6:04PM

WOW, someone more obsessed with their "weight loss graph" then me? NO WAY! LOL I am a total numbers geek myself and I LOVED to watch the graph of my weight fluctuations unfold... I even created trend lines... Yes, I'm that geeky! LOL I agree... when I was down to my competition weight, I felt the BEST ever (despite the definite over training and strict diet I was following) I never skipped a workout, it was unreal! Yet people would be all "OMG, you look sick!" When they'd see me if they hadn't in a while! UGHHHH! People are so crazy! Like you said, "Why weren't you concerned about my health when I was bigger and gaining more weight? That's just as, if not MORE unhealthy then being small, right?" Oh well! What can ya do??? PS.. I think you're making awesome progress! Hang in there! Report Inappropriate Comment

ZIRCADIA 7/7/2009 5:24PM

I got SOOOOO annoyed last night because a lady asked me "Are you still dieting?" I gave my,"I'm still eating healthy!" Response. :P Then she was like, "Do you EVER eat anything that isn't good for you?" And I was like ".... YEAH!" hahaha :D I hate when people make comments that are annoying though... and the "stop losing weight, you're gonna get too skinny" comments are so annoying also. Especially when you KNOW you're not even CLOSE to the bottom of the healthy BMI range for your height. It always just made me feel like, dang... you were really used to seeing me huge if THIS looks too skinny... :P ANYWAY. WOOHOO on getting rid of the wedding eating bloat and back on track to losing. :) Report Inappropriate Comment

MBSHAZZER 7/7/2009 5:24PM

You may end up losing weight faster b/c of the weekend's indulgence... sometimes shaking things up throws your metabolism for a loop in a good way! Regarding the weight comments... I know, so annoying! Like, when is weight anyone else's business?! I get a lot of comments about what I eat. I guess people feel they can comment or critisize b/c I'm not overweight? Still, so annoying! Enjoy summer! Report Inappropriate Comment

Week 13 Ends - Good News/Bad News

Sunday, July 05, 2009

Week 1 -1lb
Week 2 -2lb
Week 3 -1lb
Week 4 -0.4lb
Week 5 -2lb
Week 6 -1lb
Week 7 -lb
Week 8 -2lb
Week 9 -1lb
Week 10 -1lb
Week 11 -0.2lb
Week 12 -1lb
Week 13 +5lb

First the bad news: I'm up a net five pounds for the week, from 151 to 156. I had been down to 149 earlier in the week. ALL of the gaining happened between Thursday night and Friday (all day). I exercised a lot, but ate WAY too much. I wasn't able to weigh myself on Friday morning because we'd slept at my boyfriend's parents' house, but on Saturday morning I was up to 157.4, which was ridiculously higher than my Thursday morning 149.0 weigh-in. Today (Sunday), I weighed in at 155.8.

Here's what I've been doing to deal with the gain:
*Not freaking about it.
*Sticking to a slightly amped-up version of my usual healthy routine.
*I ate a little less than usual yesterday (somewhere between 1,600-1,700 calories). I was back up to my usual calorie range today though.
*Extra cardio - yesterday between the elliptical and lots and lots and lots of walking, I think I may have gone about half-marathon distance!! Today I ran for almost an hour and rode the bike at the gym for 20 minutes. I've also done my usual strength training and stretching.

I realize that all this gain means is that it'll take a few more weeks to get to my goal than I had originally planned. Who cares - once I get there, I'm going to be there for a LOOOOONG time, so what's a few weeks?? Plus, the overeating wasn't all that bad. It was delicious, and celebratory, and gave me SO much energy for all my workouts this weekend, and reduced my appetite for about 24 hours afterwards.

As for the good news, I actually have two things to share. One is that my shoulder is feeling MUCH better today - yay. I wasn't expecting to heal this fast!

And two..., and far more imporantly, today my boyfriend told my parents that he would like to marry me and wanted their blessing first. They said "OF COURSE!" and gave him hugs and kisses - okay, my mom did that, and my dad was more reserved as always but also gave his blessing. (Which is actually a relief - we are not the same religion, so we were a bit worried about my parents' reaction. Apparently they are going to be okay with it, thank goodness.) So, I'm not officially engaged yet, but goshdarnit am I close! I am sooooo happy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


Last night was wonderful too...it was so nice having good weather for a change, so after a loooooooooooong walk, we went to a Thai restaurant downtown with outdoor seating and shared a bottle of Merlot and I had a green papaya salad (he had his favorite - Pad Thai). Then we went to the river to watch the really good fireworks display and listen to Neil Diamond and the Boston Pops. It was CROWDED, but in a really fun way. What a great weekend! Too bad it has to end - summer school starts tomorrow! Ick.

  

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

CWRISTON1 7/7/2009 4:21PM

WOW! Congratulations on the pending engagement!! That is so exciting I bet the Boston fireworks were beautiful. We live near the water, so we just went a couple streets over to a little cove/beachfront and across the water in every direction we could see about 11 different displays from towns all over Rhode Island. Perfect spot to watch without fighting the crowds Report Inappropriate Comment

SEEHOLZ 7/6/2009 9:03PM

OMG = that is such exciting news! I love how you said how happy you were! It's YOUR moment, so milk it-LOL! And how great that your parents gave their blessing- I'm sure it means the world to you! The weight-- like you said, it's a miniscule moment that was a conscious decision and you enjoyed it... so, no big deal! Hugs, Patty Report Inappropriate Comment

VIVA_VICTORIES 7/6/2009 7:18PM

Congrats on your pending engagement!! I got engaged in March and it's been such a great experience, it leaves me looking forward to the future all the time. I hope y'all always enjoy each other's company! Report Inappropriate Comment

JOPAPGH 7/6/2009 6:59PM

Congratulations on the engagement. I bet all that weight is gone by your next weigh in. Report Inappropriate Comment

ZIRCADIA 7/6/2009 4:23PM

Sounds like you're doing GREAT. :) Smart head on those shoulders and WOOHOO on getting the parents blessing -- HOW EXCITING?!?!?! :D hehehehe. Report Inappropriate Comment

NICOLETTEDIMON 7/6/2009 4:14PM

Totally awesome news! That is great! And, I think a lot more of us need to adopt your attitude on weight loss/gain! Such a "happy blog" to read though! Report Inappropriate Comment

KENSINGTONC 7/6/2009 3:40PM

Aw, I really like this blog post! Your happiness about the engagement totally shines through - can't WAIT to see the next post about the proposal itself!!! Also, I think that your attitude about the weight gain is very reasonable, too. You know what I struggle with? When I work out more e.g. train for a half, I eat a lot more, and my weight actually goes UP! But I'm so hungry! I don't have a good solution... Report Inappropriate Comment

TERRIANGEL 7/6/2009 3:06PM

YAAAAAAAYYYYYYYY!!!!!! I"m SO excited for you!!!! And I must say, your healthy attitude is amazing. You're right, you're going to be where you want to be for a very long time, so why stress about a few days and a few pounds? Right! And yeah, evening or gym is the place to be for runs this week. Yeesh! Yesterdays was HARD, but good. Slower than usual, but I guess that's to be expected. Keep up the great work, Susan!! Report Inappropriate Comment

ROGUE_1 7/6/2009 1:14PM

Aww, your great news made me smile, I'm really happy for you! Your boyfriend is such a sweetie for wanting your parents blessing...gotta love the old school ways! So gentlemanly :) Report Inappropriate Comment

MBSHAZZER 7/6/2009 10:53AM

Oh, how exciting! Now you have all the anticipation of waiting to see when he springs the big question on you! YAY! Report Inappropriate Comment

ELFITZPA 7/6/2009 10:50AM

Such exciting news!!!! I'm definitely very envious, though. No worries about the weight. The likelihood that you really ate an extra 17,500 calories is pretty small, so you're probably seeing some water weight in there and will see a more reasonable number in a few days. Good for you though for being extra diligent afterwards!! Report Inappropriate Comment

RUN_LIFT_EAT 7/6/2009 8:45AM

That sounds delightful! OMG!!!!! I so excited for you!!!!! That is awesome Susan!!!! YAY!!! I think your weight is water and will be back down in a few days, but I know you are tired of hearing it so I'll leave it at that. Report Inappropriate Comment

NTRICK 7/6/2009 7:17AM

Good news/bad news ???? Try "eh news/GREAT news" :) CONGRATS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Report Inappropriate Comment

SKYFYRE 7/6/2009 1:58AM

Wowie-zowie, how exciting about the talk with the parents! Woohoo! So excited for you! Maybe you need to poop. No kidding, eat some prunes Way to rack up the miles, you are a machine! Report Inappropriate Comment

BRUIN2 7/6/2009 12:21AM

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KJNE8O 7/5/2009 8:36PM

Woo Hoo!!! YAY on the soon-to-be-engagement. And also great attitude on the weight - you are doing awesome :) A very healthy attitude! Report Inappropriate Comment