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Posts: 30
11/20/09 9:49 P

One day at a time, one step in front of the other. What you are doing and how you are doing it means you are getting that "fire" back. For every battle you win, it is that much closer to the end of the war!

Good Luck!

Pounds lost: 6.0

0 17 34 51

68

SparkPoints: (25,678)
Fitness Minutes: (13,561)
Posts: 1,516
11/20/09 9:08 P

Wow.... powerful song. I'm a huge Motley Crue fan but had never heard that song... great words.

I'm trying one step at a time. The first step was getting into a cardio/strength training routine. Second, is cooking healthy well-rounded meals. Lastly (and this is the key that I started this werk...) logging in and tracking as much as I can. I need to get the "spark" back, but since I'm in a MUCH better place than when I started the first time... I'm having a hard time finding that fire. So, step by step.

Pounds lost: 9.7

0 6.25 12.5 18.75

25

Posts: 30
11/20/09 8:02 P

I have fallen off the wagon so many times, the wagon no longer stops for me, but makes me run after it, to get back on. I found this song by SIXX AM called Accidents Can Happen. In it, Nikki Sixx is talking about his heroin addiction but for me, it's like he is talking about my food addiction. here are the lyrics to it:

Accidents Can Happen"

Don't give up, it takes a while
I have seen this look before
And it's alright
You're not alone
If you don't love this anymore
I hear that you've slipped again
I'm here 'cause I know you'll need a friend

And you know that accidents can happen
And it's okay,
We all fall off the wagon sometimes
It's not your whole life
It's only one day
You haven't thrown everything away.

Take some time and learn to breathe
And remember what it means
To feel alive
And to believe
Something more than what you see
I know there's a price for this
But some things in life you must resist

And you know that accidents can happen
And it's okay,
We all fall off the wagon sometimes
It's not your whole life
It's only one day
You haven't thrown everything away.

I hear that you've slipped again
I'm here 'cause I know you'll need a friend

And you know that accidents can happen
And it's okay,
We all fall off the wagon sometimes
It's not your whole life
It's only one day
You haven't thrown everything away.

You know that accidents can happen
And it's okay,
We all fall off the wagon sometimes
It's not your whole life
It's only one day
You haven't thrown everything away.

So don't give up
It takes a while.

I listen to this song daily to remind myself that no mistake is ever permanent and can be fixed!

Pounds lost: 6.0

0 17 34 51

68

Posts: 183
11/20/09 7:18 P

Thanksgiving is just around the corner and I plan on going off the wagon for one day. I'll get back on the next day without beating myself up. Maybe even exercise a little more.

current weight: 205.0

210 196.25 182.5 168.75

155

Posts: 48
11/20/09 5:42 P

"Yesterday is gone, now is here and don't even think about what hasn't happened yet."

"People are just as happy as they make up their minds to be." ~ Abraham Lincoln

Nike has said it best albeit difficult but not impossible. Just do it.

current weight: 335.0

352 311.5 271 230.5

190

Posts: 18
11/20/09 4:11 P

Sometimes I make my resolutions too harsh when I attempt to get back on the wagon. You can't say, "I want to look like I did months ago by Monday!" It's not possible. But if you work at it, you'll be there before you know it.

Posts: 33
11/20/09 3:20 P

I give away all the unhealthy food in my house and then I tell everyone I can (my friends, my family, my coworkers) that I'm getting back on the wagon and I'm sticking to it. That way I feel like I am accountable because I know someone is likely to ask me how it's coming along. Being accountable for me is what keeps me going.

Pounds lost: 10.0

0 28.25 56.5 84.75

113

Posts: 2
11/20/09 2:16 P

I've been doing the same thing. On then off, and back again...it's a roller coaster ride that I don't want to be on any more.

I've decided to just take it one day at a time, keep logging my calories and exercises...these things are the whole reason I signed up for SparkPeople.

current weight: 178.0

178 171 164 157

150

Posts: 2
11/20/09 1:57 P

Congrats on meeting your goal weight! What's next?

current weight: 178.0

178 171 164 157

150

Posts: 122
11/20/09 1:48 P

One foot at a time! :)
Seriously- I've been on and off the wagon so many times I've got a season pass. Getting off is never hard (insert ice cream or your sin of choice), but getting back on is a bear.
My last on again started in August this year & so far I've been pretty consistent. Here's what I think has worked for me...

The 14 day rule - typically if I can make it through 14 days w/o eating badly I can usually stick to it. I think my body resets itself, the cravings subside, and I start to think before I eat. Everything below is about making it through the first 14.

Plan - Plan everything! It usually starts w/ a trip to the grocery store and a purging of all the bad stuff in the kitchen. Once I've decided what I'm going to eat I try to pre-cook at least my dinners so I have no excuses to eat badly when I come home from work. I also plan for these 2 wks to be all about me. No parties- no happy hours - no work potlucks - no temptations! Too often I use social gatherings as an excuse to eat poorly & it generally spirals out of control from there.

Track my food - Tracking what you eat is the biggest pain in the butt ever. I used to hate it (now it's just mild disdain), but it keeps me accountable. It also allows me to evaluate what I'm eating and make different choices about how I "spend" my calories.

"Safe" treats - Maybe for you it's pasta, steak, or bread, but I have an incredible sweet tooth. I make sure to have a few safe treats on hand. For me that's things like yogurt (have you tried the yoplait parfait delights - they are sooo good), jello, and pre-portioned ice cream (specifically the Skinny Cow brand). Whatever your vice, figuring out how to eat reasonable portions, or finding substitues helps get through the tough days.

Spark - Of course all of the tools, resources, and community in Spark People is a huge asset. I log in everday- enter my food, check on my friends, and spill my guts to my blog. It truly is making a difference for me!

I guess that's it. Lately I've been doing this calorie deficit thing (if you're interested there's more detail in my blog "what it takes to lose 3 lbs), which has really got me focused. It's hard work but it's really paying off. I even found a new exercise class I love because of it.

Hopefully all of our on the wagon time exceeds our off the wagon time and in the end the wagon takes us where we want to go!!!!

current weight: 249.2

287 252.75 218.5 184.25

150

Posts: 109
11/20/09 1:35 P

I've been having a really tough time with this recently. I was doing really well and then I hit a massive plateau. I've been slowly gaining weight again. Had hit my low weight of 155 and have crawled back up to about 161. Seeing the 160s again has been the most depressing thing ever.

I've basically been telling myself that I had to do this before, except that I was 50 pounds heavier. So I can do it again! Remember to be gentle with yourself. We all have hectic lives that bring their own sources of stress - it's easy to slip up or fall off the wagon. Just make a promise to yourself to recommit.

current weight: 160.5

206 189.5 173 156.5

140

Posts: 17
11/20/09 11:04 A

Similar weight, similar goals.
Photos are definitely a motivator. I'm back on track and can use all the help to stay that way. I like the idea of a short meditation to help. I'm going to try that as well.

But I fell off the fitness wagon as well and that is the worst. I can feel the stress building and the fatigue. No more computer. Going to take a break and go run.
Tthanks for sharing.

Anne

current weight: 146.0

146 139.5 133 126.5

120

Posts: 10
11/20/09 10:26 A

Boy, rude awakening this morning, I have put on 10 pounds since May 8!! I put myself back on the wagon, now I just have to stay on it. Sparkpeople are awesome and I need to maintain my food journal every day, it does make a difference! One good thing I did not quit exercising!! Focus on the good things I have done and release any thought of the wrong things so there is plenty of good thoughts and energy circling my healthy body weight!!

current weight: 165.5

206 193.25 180.5 167.75

155

Posts: 208
11/20/09 10:21 A

If there was an easy, surefire way of getting back on track, we'd all be our ideal weight.! Having said that, I know there is, AND, it takes minimal, if no effort, physically speaking, on our part.

What is it?

It's brain power, or mind power. Simple as that. Practice for as many minutes as you want, at any time during the day that suits you and empty your mind as best you can (picture a peaceful, happy scene or candle). Practice this daily and think positive thoughts about how fabulous and fit you are going to look and feel, and I guarantee, you will find yourselves back on track, and what's more, if you keep up the meditation, daily, you won't fall off again.

xxx

current weight: 317.0

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288

Posts: 8
11/20/09 8:52 A

And if you fall, don't dwell, get up and start again....you do this until you get to where you want to go.

current weight: 149.0

208 188.5 169 149.5

130

Posts: 8
11/20/09 8:51 A

Don't dwell on anything past, each new day is a new beginning, there nothing you've done that so bad you cannot undo by starting new today.

current weight: 149.0

208 188.5 169 149.5

130

Posts: 63
11/20/09 5:44 A

During a soccer tournament, one of my teammates husband took pictures. In each picture of me, my gut was huge, my rear was wide. It made me realize why I was never picked to start during soccer games this year for new teams, and why noone ever complimented me on my fitness. This made me buckle down and I am now on a mission.

current weight: 145.0

146 140.75 135.5 130.25

125

Posts: 1
11/20/09 5:34 A

Well I'm back in the saddle again. Working out is hard with 2 small ones but if I really planned it out I could get way more exercise in my life than I do now. And my eating is like a roller coaster sometimes but I think that is because I get down on myself and again if I plug that exercise in there it would boost my eating woes. This is me, starting over, doing life better and not allowing my emotions rule me. I have 15 to lose... I can do this!

current weight: 158.0

163 159.75 156.5 153.25

150

Posts: 712
11/20/09 2:44 A

I weighed in yesterday felt bad. And started thinking back over my week's was my birthday and i ate. Although I felt i wasn't eating much apparently i was. i gained 1.6 pounds.I also didn't exercise for almost a week. so it is definitely my fault. So I am back to tracking and exercising. It really make me aware of what I am doing.

current weight: 267.0

275 252.5 230 207.5

185

Posts: 4
11/19/09 11:39 P

that's exactly what works for me too. I started shopping and logging food and have lost 7 pounds in only a few days. The other thing I do is go to Jason's Deli and eat raw vegetables from the salad bar. Sounds yucky but I take a friend and the conversation is what I enjoy instead of the food.


Edited by: SMARTBODY1 at: 11/19/2009 (23:40)

Posts: 10
11/19/09 11:23 P

I'm glad you asked this question. Because I was just sitting here looking at this site feeling devastated. Hopeless... convinced I could never change. I entered my new high weight and saw my old high weight, last entered in June. Then I saw where I could be now if I didn't live in denial of my bad habits and avoided the scale for 5 months.

And I wanted to just give up on myself, except I can't really do that either. So, I see one person say, "I increase my water" and another say "I weigh myself daily" and I know all the right answers ... I guess I just gotta believe I can do it.

This is where accountability would really help, right?

current weight: 218.0

218 203.5 189 174.5

160

Posts: 305
11/19/09 9:20 P

I just got started again and have been back on the wagon for just shy of 4 weeks now.

I thought to myself - something is better than nothing. I started to add things into my life like tracking my food, drinking water, regular exercise. I made a plan for my typical week but left some wiggle room in case something unexpected comes up. I let myself not be perfect, but try to be a bit better every day compared to the day before.

Good luck! I know we all can do it :)

Pounds lost: 4.6

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40

Posts: 16
11/19/09 9:11 P

My thing is I like to feel full, miserable even. Now I try to find as many things I can eat that I like that I can just keep eating. Also once before when I was in the "zone" I was drinking plenty of water, 64oz+ and when I was doing that I don't remember craving so much. So that is my new track, drink at least 64oz. Also when I take a day or two "off" and then try to catch the wagon again, I just keep putting off the junk food until tomorrow. And it seems to me that if I can just go three days being good, then I am more than likely to have a long ride on the wagon.

Pounds lost: 0.0

0 5.325 10.65 15.975

21.3

Posts: 158
11/19/09 8:58 P

Make sure you watch those grapes they are loaded with calories (whodda thunkit) and sugar.

current weight: 146.0

175 163.75 152.5 141.25

130

Posts: 183
11/19/09 4:29 P

I'm still on the wagon. I love snacking -- chips, cookies, candy (most anything). I still snack, but now I have fruit instead. Grapes, an apple, a banana are satisfying. Also, I'm very strict about counting calories. I need to exercise more, but that'll come later. I'm exercising some, which is better than none.

current weight: 205.0

210 196.25 182.5 168.75

155

SparkPoints: (6,042)
Fitness Minutes: (4,099)
Posts: 649
11/19/09 2:57 P

I try and move forward, looking back to reflect on what happened and trying to avoid it happening again,

My biggest fault is skipping the exercise, I tend to exercise everyday and as long as I do that I am great but when I take a day off, it quickly becomes two and three, etc.

I tend to eat healthy, stay within my range and drink the water but I feel like I should spend more time working out yet I don't.

Need to start hitting the gym before work.

current weight: 222.0

240 227.5 215 202.5

190

Posts: 48
11/19/09 2:41 P

I wake up each day and start over. I try not to make up for the prior day's indulgences, or to cut corners.

current weight: 138.8

161 153.75 146.5 139.25

132

SparkPoints: (2,752)
Fitness Minutes: (4,364)
Posts: 165
11/19/09 2:21 P

I agree with Hilisaro. That is my main way of getting back on track. I also make myself accountable to friends by announcing my plans to workout and asking them to text me about it later.

current weight: 176.0

180 168.75 157.5 146.25

135

Posts: 2
11/19/09 2:13 P

Once I've fallen off of the wagon - after I've pigged out for days, and stopped all exercise... just even thinking about getting back on it feels like running to catch up to a twister. I know I can't do it - but I also know that I can walk. So, I start by walking. I don't change my bad eating habits, or my bad attitude - until I feel good about myelf again. Once I feel proud of myself for getting back in the fight, then I start eating healthy again, and getting back to an exercise routine is much easier by then.

Posts: 62
11/19/09 2:05 P

Add me to the club! I'm getting back to it as well. I have let my eating habits get out of control on me again. I like to snack and have "treats". I will be tracking my food and all the extras i've been having. I am doing yoga/pilates twice a week but I know I need to start exercising more again to keep the weight off. I will set some goals and some rewards (non food of course!) and work my way back to where it all becomes routine again. Chatting with everyone helps me to get focused and stick with it....thanks all!! :)

current weight: 160.0

166 159.5 153 146.5

140

Posts: 125
11/19/09 1:58 P

I started back by getting a buddy. That way it's not just myself I need to stick with it for, but because I've made a commitment to help someone else too.

Pounds lost: 4.0

0 18 36 54

72

Posts: 643
11/19/09 1:54 P

I remember what I'm trying to accomplish. That motivates me to finish this journey.

current weight: 202.0

230 217.5 205 192.5

180

Posts: 2
11/19/09 1:32 P

I get back on 'the wagon' when I get so upset with myself that I have to make a change. I have to get into shape for flag football season so that gives me a goal.

Posts: 1
11/19/09 1:31 P

I go and try on clothes in a store that doesn't have "skinny" mirrors. Ideally it will have mirrors placed in the dressing room so you can see the front AND the back of you. Seeing how I look from the back (my butt, my hips, even the "back fat" that I would rather avoid admitting), and how it is not nearly as good as I imagine, quickly pushes me back into the mode where I want to jump back on the wagon (hence last night's shopping trip, and today back on Spark!).

Edited by: HAYJEANNE at: 11/19/2009 (19:02)

current weight: 159.0

159 155.5 152 148.5

145

Posts: 10
11/19/09 1:05 P

I have had a terrible time getting back into the swing of things lately. I have found everyone's advice here very helpful. Now if I can somehow stick to the plan. I think, for me, trying to get back up on that wagon at the very next meal, if I have blown it on the previous meal, then I am going to go for it. It will be better than throwing up my hands and giving up on my entire day of eating.

SparkPoints: (31,459)
Fitness Minutes: (21,575)
Posts: 1,440
11/19/09 12:48 P

I agree with the one day at a time. I have fallen off the wagon and I am exercising on a regular bases. You have to not let your guard down from eating. My focus got off and I started eating things that I had gotten away from. Now I am back to tracking my foods and really staying out of the kitchen and doing my activities.

current weight: 160.0

211 194.5 178 161.5

145

SparkPoints: (2,346)
Fitness Minutes: (2,374)
Posts: 67
11/19/09 12:12 P

When I'm 'off the wagon', I weigh myself DAILY. It helps as a strong reminder as to WHY I need to get back on the wagon..seeing the numbers slowly creep up.

Then when I'm 'on the wagon', I go back to weighing myself weekly.

Pounds lost: 11.0

0 17 34 51

68

SparkPoints: (3,244)
Fitness Minutes: (1,272)
Posts: 46
11/19/09 12:09 P

I had a breakthrough last night. Came up with an acronym I plan to use. PRIME. Postpone Reduce and Improve (meals/impulse eating, etc) and Maximize Exercise. I am about to turn 52 and am definitely not in my prime so this helps me think about why not. Reality is every minute of the day we make choices to either move towards or away from health and fitness. I decided as I tossed and turned last night to let go of my past mistakes and focus now on getting into PRIME condition. For me. For my family. For my future.

current weight: 185.9

187 170 153 136

119

Posts: 4
11/19/09 11:57 A

I think that there is no wagon. There are just habits that work and those that don't. The only way I can tell the difference is by tracking what I do (exercise, weight, and nutrition). When you have the right habits, you aren't on a wagon ... it is just a part of the new and improved you.

Posts: 261
11/19/09 10:08 A

I too am getting back on the wagon as of today. I had gone from 140 down to 122 about 2 years ago, and I knew it was slowly creeping up, when I got married in May I was shocked to find I was at 150!! Then I got laid off, started working a horrible job plus a part time job, plus going to school on top of taking care of my husband and 2 dogs and a new house while getting more and more into debt... the stress has gotten so bad. i weighed myself yesterday for the first time in a while, over 160. my mom took me clothes shopping for chistmas last night, i'm now wearing a 13. the largest in my life.

i'm sick of it. i'm getting back on the wagon today. starting with no soda. none. not a drop. and i had breakfast for once. little steps make all the difference.

current weight: 156.0

160 152.5 145 137.5

130

Posts: 15
11/19/09 9:56 A

When I fell off it was all about self-delusion. There were a few things: I stopped tracking nutrition, I stopped tracking exercise, I stopped weighing myself and pretended I was managing portion control. Lo and behold, I gained about 5 pounds back of my HARD lost 30. Basically, I stopped doing everything I knew worked.
Since then, I started tracking the calories again and got back on my exercise regimen. I've already gotten rid of almost 2 pounds of what I gained so...I know what I needed to do.

current weight: 243.0

272 251.5 231 210.5

190

Posts: 17
11/19/09 9:31 A

I just got back on the wagon also. I started putting myself first because I am just as important as the next person. I feel alot better already, exercise is a great stress relief. I always seem to have better energy, attitude, more on my game. It's always better to get back on the wagon then to watch it go by.

current weight: 163.0

165 160.75 156.5 152.25

148

Posts: 29
11/19/09 9:11 A

One day at a time...

current weight: 145.0

149 141.75 134.5 127.25

120

SparkPoints: (3,837)
Fitness Minutes: (2,015)
Posts: 236
11/19/09 9:11 A

I try to start again even if only for a few minutes.

current weight: 258.0

266 252.25 238.5 224.75

211

Posts: 180
11/19/09 9:05 A

I fell off the exercise wagon about a year ago when I came down with the flu that turned into bronchitis. I had it about two weeks and couldn't breathe easily so got out of the habit of getting up and exercising. If it were to happen again I don't know what to do different other than to be aware. The eating habits that had changed were not affected for some reason. My brain's just weird that way (thankfully).

current weight: 158.8

171 158.25 145.5 132.75

120

Posts: 5
11/19/09 8:54 A

I am back on the wagon too... it's been a couple of months since I was last on. This week I decided that I needed to get it together, because I can tell I am gaining weight. I haven't gone near my scale yet, and I am honestly frightened to. I don't want to get discouraged right away. I've stopped drinking soda, I am tracking all my food, and my steps. I just hope I can keep myself motivated. I know I am not happy with my weight, but some days that is not enough to keep me from eating whatever I want (usually in large quantities). I feel myself getting weaker and having more back pains again... I really hate this cycle. I know no one can make me do it except me...

current weight: 163.0

176 165.75 155.5 145.25

135

Posts: 70
11/19/09 8:13 A

I got back on the wagon November 6th. It's so hard. I've dropped 5 lbs since then but now its staying at that. My biggest thing is the evening meal with the family. They are two big eaters and so I find it hard to exercise my portion control because even though I have smaller portions than them it's still probably a bit too much for me. How do you get your mind wrapped around that? The rest of the day goes well because I bring my healthy snacks and lunch to work. But I feel that the evening meal is defeating me.

I think being back on track means you are trying to be in control of what you are eating and doing rather than letting it control you right?

Pounds lost: 72.0

0 43.5 87 130.5

174

SparkPoints: (9,089)
Fitness Minutes: (16,206)
Posts: 1,507
11/19/09 3:20 A

Another thing, I refuse to buy new BIGGER clothes. I got rid of a ton of clothes that were too big for me last year and I don't want to go back to where I was... So have to get it going and stick to it this time.

current weight: 178.8

196 183.75 171.5 159.25

147

Posts: 39
11/19/09 1:44 A

jaydens mom...I'm new to this site..but everything you mentioned sounds like my story...I come here and read..but just can't seem to get going...and my husband is the same ......but thin as a rail..and I do not see him exercising..I told him he was an enabler...but I know I have to do this for me...now by myself and just DO It...so tomorrow I am going to call the cookie lady and cancel some of those cookies I ordered...lol.....Good luck Autumn

SparkPoints: (12,138)
Fitness Minutes: (16,645)
Posts: 890
11/18/09 11:50 P

I'm with you I just give myself a kick in the rear and say is it worth losing the hardwork to lay on the couch watching mindless tv. Besides I have a daily blog to fill out on spark and I don't want it to say I watched tv and was a slug on the couch all day, unless it is my rest day and that is what I have scheduled.

Pounds lost: 22.0

0 33 66 99

132

SparkPoints: (2,814)
Fitness Minutes: (1,140)
Posts: 109
11/18/09 11:47 P

After being off the wagon for almost six months, I just jumped back in! Fortunately, I had not gained the weight lost (learned something yay!) and I can take over where I left off... I logged in and read a few motivating stories, listened to Jillian Michaels and her radio show, forgave myself and revisited my goals... because I'm human! "Just doing it" works for me!!

Good Luck and welcome back!!

Edited by: MARIPOSITA66 at: 11/18/2009 (23:48)

current weight: 215.0

238 212.25 186.5 160.75

135

Posts: 4,397
11/18/09 11:44 P

I kick myself in the butt and say you have worked to hard to give up. I tell myself that I forgive you and start back on doing what was working.

Edited by: OUTDOORGIRL65 at: 11/18/2009 (23:45)

current weight: 148.7

158 149.75 141.5 133.25

125

Posts: 5
11/18/09 11:13 P

I think it's important to be forgiving of yourself when you slip up. That way you don't decide your day/week/life of healthy eating is ruined when you have a slice of cake or eat a bit too much. I'm still finding a balance with this, but I'm trying to make it so that one mistake doesn't mean my entire diet is ruined. Good luck to everyone!

Edited by: GETFUNKY2NITE at: 11/18/2009 (23:14)

Pounds lost: 2.0

0 23.75 47.5 71.25

95

Posts: 143
11/18/09 10:53 P

I realized that the only way for me to do it, was to just do it. Like ripping a band-aid off. So far, so good. I haven't killed anyone yet so I guess I'm doing good.

current weight: 217.0

217 202.75 188.5 174.25

160

SparkPoints: (9,089)
Fitness Minutes: (16,206)
Posts: 1,507
11/18/09 10:36 P

This past Sunday I was on a trip, my shirt kept hiking up on me everytime I moved in the car. So I decided that was it... I am working my way back on the wagon. I started off slow, I have cut soda pop out of my diet and candy.. I will go from there...I am also getting back into SP slowly. I spend time each night looking through messages and articles to help me get going.

current weight: 178.8

196 183.75 171.5 159.25

147

Posts: 183
11/18/09 10:12 P

I like the idea of logging in to this site every day, or every other day, to say "I"m still on the wagon," I know it would help me stay committed,

current weight: 205.0

210 196.25 182.5 168.75

155

Posts: 18
11/18/09 9:14 P

I jumped back on the wagon last week...again, thanks to a pep talk with a friend of mine. We helped eachother before in a healthy competition kind of way. We text eachother after a work-out just as an FYI, give pep talks, share helpful tips and info we learn, etc.
Also, logging back onto SP is helping too. Spinning the points wheel is like getting video game points for me...and once I'm logged on I might as well log food and exercise and see what SP has planned for me for the day. :)
On a more personal/private level I've known I've needed to get exercise back in my daily ritual just like that morning coffee and getting kids ready for school. I've moved around some things in my morning schedule and wake up just 15-20 minutes earlier so that I have no excuse for not getting a jumpstart on exercise for the day. I've found, for myself, that if i even get in 10 minutes of exercise within that first hour in the morning I'm about 75% more likely to get in a full work-out later on. Worse comes to worse I do 3 'mini-workouts' throughout the day that are only about 10-15 minutes each. It may not sound like much but I remind myself that its better than nothing, lifts my mood, and I'm building up my endurance again. Baby steps!!

Pounds lost: 10.0

0 10.25 20.5 30.75

41

Posts: 36
11/18/09 8:44 P

thanks for the good advice. I have a problem with binge eating every now and then. If I can learn to recognize my triggers, maybe I can eliminate the source of my problem.

current weight: 204.8

210 201.25 192.5 183.75

175

Posts: 36
11/18/09 8:41 P

Whenever I overeat, I just feel awful afterward. The next day my stomach is upset. And not to mention the scale is a little higher too. All of this negativity makes me want to get on the wagon again! It makes me realize that my body doesn't want all that junk anymore.

current weight: 204.8

210 201.25 192.5 183.75

175

Posts: 998
11/18/09 8:03 P

You always just try not to fall off of it.It's all about will power...

current weight: 160.0

220 205 190 175

160

Posts: 6
11/18/09 7:18 P

Hey Wisegirl. My 3rd day as well. I think posting everyday makes you "see" what you've done. I finally time for me - so that I can post as well daily.... Keep up the good work !!! Here goes to Day 4....

current weight: 172.0

173 166 159 152

145

SparkPoints: (3,050)
Fitness Minutes: (3,530)
Posts: 268
11/18/09 5:34 P

figure out what went wrong so you can learn from it before you attempt to get back on the wagon

you will be have more opportunity to be successful when you take the time to figure out why you fell in the first place

Pounds lost: 41.4

0 27.25 54.5 81.75

109

Posts: 17
11/18/09 4:26 P

i think you're right not to deprive yourself, it just doesn't work, makes you want them even more, forbidden fruit and all that. Keep at it

current weight: 616.0

616 612 608 604

600

Posts: 82
11/18/09 4:25 P

Congrats on your third day of staying on the wagon. I have been posting how many days I can stay on the wagon. I don't know why posting helps motivate me, but it does. Good luck for tomorrow too.

current weight: 153.0

155 147.5 140 132.5

125

SparkPoints: (529)
Fitness Minutes: (392)
Posts: 19
11/18/09 4:17 P

I've definitely started to plan for things so that I don't go overboard. I allow myself the treats I like, but I just make room for them and lower how much I eat of them. I generally get one thing from the store each week or so and I chew on it for that week or longer depending on what it is. I used to try to deprive myself, and that just doesn't work.
I am on my third day of being on the wagon. I think it would be a good idea to check in here each day and say "one more day, I did it!"

Posts: 180
11/18/09 3:38 P

Every night for months I self-talked saying 'In the morning I'm going to start again.' The alarm would go off and I'd hit the snooze until I got up so late I didn't have time to exercise. Sunday I just got up and started walking. No self-talk, no snooze, just did it. Why then? I don't know, I was just ready I guess.

current weight: 158.8

171 158.25 145.5 132.75

120

SparkPoints: (13,141)
Fitness Minutes: (12,586)
Posts: 1,275
11/18/09 3:24 P

ok! OK! I am willing to start again! (sigh) I really hit a low spot this time. I almost believed getting back on the wagon wasn't going to happen for me. I will start counting WW points again. That is what helped me along with spark support. Glad you are all here! HUGS TO ALL OF YOU!!!!! sandy

current weight: 226.0

240 225 210 195

180

SparkPoints: (23,606)
Fitness Minutes: (6,691)
Posts: 2,282
11/18/09 2:59 P

Day 1 for me after a year off... just had to get my mind in the right place.
Tracking is a mUST for me... the only thing that keeps me focused!
Debbie

current weight: 190.4

190.4 184.05 177.7 171.35

165

Posts: 231
11/18/09 2:58 P

i've had a bad week too....you are not alone...i haven't worked out in four days and i've been binging myself....i think we just need to get over it and do something about it

current weight: 168.2

179 166.5 154 141.5

129

Posts: 82
11/18/09 2:55 P

This is day 3 of staying on the wagon for me. It helps me to keep track of how many days I have been within calorie range. Tracking calories is such an eye opener. If I know that something I will be having for dinner is a little higher in calories, I try to make up for it by cutting down on the portion, or eliminating something else. Some days, I plan for a glass of wine with dinner. It helps to know that nothing is forbidden, you just have to plan for it. I usually have no problem staying on the wagon for breakfast and lunch. Planning my dinner ahead of time helps me to stay on the wagon.

current weight: 153.0

155 147.5 140 132.5

125

SparkPoints: (2,346)
Fitness Minutes: (2,374)
Posts: 67
11/18/09 2:48 P

Start getting back in the regime by using Spark Nutrition to start tracking what you're eating right now, off any diet. I mean track EVERYTHING you are currently eating. Cookies, M&Ms, pie, ice cream, soda, crackers, cereal... EVERYTHING. Just use it as a tool to learn what you're putting in your body at this point.

You'll see the crazy calories, fat, and sugar contents that you're putting in your body. And it will be painful to see (trust me...lol), but, YOU NEED TO SEE IT.

It's a good way just to see the WHY behind why you need to get back on track.

Makes sense, right?

Edited by: APRILBLESS at: 11/18/2009 (14:52)

Pounds lost: 11.0

0 17 34 51

68

Posts: 785
11/18/09 2:30 P

Give myself a good self talking to the pick myself up dust myself off and start again one day at a time

current weight: 195.0

195 187.5 180 172.5

165

Posts: 821
11/18/09 2:03 P

keep to my plan

Pounds lost: 51.0

0 12.75 25.5 38.25

51

Posts: 38
11/18/09 1:38 P

JaydensMom just keep coming back here. Find some new support groups and keep positive. Now's the time to do this for yourself... keep that in mind always. It's for a better you and eventually other people will get it and may be more helpful, but don't depend on that, just yourself!
You have to be your biggest fan, but we can all be your best cheerleaders!!!!!

current weight: 146.5

150 148 146 144

142

Posts: 94
11/18/09 1:32 P

Very good question. With the onset of winter and loss of SO's job, I find myself feeling like everything is out of whack. Have to work extra hours, which cuts down on my available time to exercise... and WHO the heck made all the fresh veggies so expensive when crap like ramen and fast noodle packs are so cheap?

Today is better though. I should have time for a 90 minute hike, and I m making a turkey tenderloin for dinner. Looks yummy and only 110 cals a serving! :) Praying for better days. I gotta get back on the wagon. :)

current weight: 249.0

294 269 244 219

194

SparkPoints: (18,565)
Fitness Minutes: (25,656)
Posts: 276
11/18/09 1:28 P

I was doing great with SP I lost 36 lbs then I went to Missouri to be with my Grandmother who was dying. I gained 10 lbs while I was there over 3 weeks. Then I tried to get back on track and I was maintaining my weight at 208-210. But then we went to Texas to visit my sister who had just moved there. And again I gained 4-5 lbs. I got on the Special K diet and did that for a month but didn't lose anything but still maintained my weight at 215-218. Then we went to Texas again and I only gained like 1 or 2 lbs but I am at 220 now and I can't seem to exercise or eat right and with the holidays coming up. I started SP in hopes to lose weight for my 10 year reunion in May of 2010. I have no motivation to stay on SP because my sister was doing it along with a couple of her friends but now no one is doing it and I have no one with me. My husband is no help either because he'll get candy, cookie, cakes, or whatever and ask me if I want one and of course I do so I eat and eat. Where did my motivation go? And how do I get it back? Please help!!!

current weight: 218.0

245 226.75 208.5 190.25

172

SparkPoints: (20,042)
Fitness Minutes: (6,446)
Posts: 11,158
11/18/09 1:23 P

oh dear.. fast foods.
i am in the same situation.. was sick with a head cold. and when sick i eat. the kitchen sink if it was choc.. lol
i just read fast foods. we can go to our fav. place once in awhile. and order that burger. but just don't eat the bun. or at least enjoy a few mouthfulls of the whole burger .. then throw the rest of the bun away. and no onion rings or french fries...

i am a A&W fan.
LOVE THIER BURGERS AND ONION RINGS.

haven't been there for years. so last week i went.. ate the burger.. with out the bun... but i did order the onion rings. foolish i know.
and ate them all..
had the diet rootbeer.
lol

now i haven't been working on me for about 2 or 3 weeks. tooo tired to do anything.
i have my sleep apnea machine and hopefully i will get back my energy.
and will get back on the wagon..
AGAIN.
loose the last 20 lbs. AGAIN.. FOR THE LAST TIME.
i hope.

today is day 1 AGAIN..

Pounds lost: 53.0

0 32.75 65.5 98.25

131

SparkPoints: (24,442)
Fitness Minutes: (26,639)
Posts: 1,893
11/18/09 12:53 P

One foot at a time ;-)

current weight: 147.0

177 166 155 144

133

Posts: 414
11/18/09 12:51 P

I find that in order to get back on the wagon, I spend more time on Spark People. (This website is right now my life saver.) I also find more active things to do, and if I can't be physically active, I put my mind to use on other things. I've even started my very first 500 piece puzzle. I'm not getting to far with it yet, but I know when I am bored that I have it to work on.

Pounds lost: 18.0

0 38.5 77 115.5

154

SparkPoints: (2,500)
Fitness Minutes: (1,445)
Posts: 193
11/18/09 12:37 P

To get back onto the wagon what I do is give away or throw out any foods that will be a threat to healthy eating. If no foods like this exist in my pantry I make sure when shopping to not shop the isles where these temptation foods are.

Pounds lost: 23.0

0 14.25 28.5 42.75

57

Posts: 5
11/18/09 12:21 P

I went on a vacation and came home to face the scale. Up 5 lbs. over it I decided not to let the scale scare me and claim defeat. I started back to calorie counting and added a few more minutes on to the walking routine. It feels good to be taking charge right away instead of letting the scale get me down.