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Posts: 16
12/23/09 4:04 A

Well done!!!

Posts: 212
12/22/09 9:14 P

Since this will be my last post on this area, I just wanted to say how wonderful it has been to be a part of this challenge...everyone has done so amazing and to be going into the Christmas season 9 pounds lighter is such a good feeling. Everyone has moved forward in this challenge and we have learned so much together. Lets continue our journey on the bus with the same drive and determination !! I adore all of you...Have a wonderful Christmas and New Years!!

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12/22/09 4:19 P

Hey Team - it looks like everyone has really embraced the new Team Page - so if everyone wants to use that as our forum now..I guess we "Can Do"! LOL

Go over an introduce yourself if you haven't already and then you can start posting on The Daily Dish!

See you there!

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12/22/09 4:08 P

Ah....sigh...for all the times I spelled your name wrong.......

And about the cookies....I think you have more than made up for those in the amount of cals you burned yesterday! - lol!

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12/22/09 3:49 P

Haha no problem it is Kristin....and I am doing well and back on the horse but on my ride today I ate 3 smaller than normal sugar cookies, I don't want to beat myself up about it, because I know I will make my goals, it was just such a quick act of impulsion, so I need to work on that but my calories for the day is still only at 700 so Im not too worried, just thought I would share.

Holidays cookies get me! haha

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12/22/09 2:16 P

Hi again, Team!

LISA - we must have been posting at the same time! GREAT to have you on the bus! This is going to be a great continuation of our journey in a way that feels like we are starting fresh if we need to! Being such a busy time of year it is more about trying not to gain too much than losing for some of us - LOL!

CRYSTAL - Sorry you hadn't been feeling well but it is great that you lost a pound anyways! What a good job you have done staying focused - even though you felt crappy...you went to the gym! That is huge! Congrats!

MUNCHIE - I like the idea of trying to drop a few lbs before Jan. 5th....we are going to Jamaica on Jan. 22nd and I am a little worried if I don't buckle down and get serious - I will have NOTHING to wear - but if I do well, I have a ton of nice stuff to bring....now THAT has to be good motivation! After all that fuss - it's good you have your laptop back and before I forget...CONGRATS on losing a pound also! Great job again this week!

KIRSTIN - You got right back on the proverbial horse again! Good for you! That is what it is all about...back on the bus, moving forward! Keep up the good work - I hope you get that job! Sorry to ask...but after all this time...is it KIRSTIN or KRISTIN?

KISHU - Brace yourself for the storm at the end of this week - I thought of you when I looked at the forecast - maybe it won't be that bad....oh, well - you can see forward to more burned calories shovelling more snow - harumph!

NANC - This is a frustrating time of the year to be working I think...alot of people at work have their mind on something else and then it makes people a little more difficult to deal with...keep your chin up and after another day - it will all be over! Then think of the time off you will have! You "Can Do" it!

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12/22/09 12:31 P

I am happy to say just about everyone has joined the Team Forum now - we are waiting for SANDRA, ALI and MOMHAGS, I believe...I'm sure we will hear from SANDRA soon and ALI has hubby home now I am guessig if I remembered the dates correctly - and I hope we hear from MOMHAGS.

Now, anyone else who wants to join...that would be GREAT! So, let your Spark Friends know and lead them to the Bus...they may have to click on the link on your Spark Page - for some reason it is not showing up in the search for me....if anyone knows why....let me know so I can fix it if I can on my side of things.

We can start on the forum anytime we want - I started a discussion for now called "The Daily Dish" which will replace this thread for now - this thread will always be here, though so there won't be any chance of missing anyone....we have to make sure everyone is on board....but our Team Forum awaits, ladies!

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12/22/09 12:21 P

Woo hoo! I'm on the bus too! I love the logo. :o) Thanks for getting the team all set up.

I've been busy trying to get some embroidery finished before Christmas. My eating and exercising have fallen by the wayside, I am afraid. I have to weigh in tonight, and I am so not looking forward to that! Oh well, I'm going to be gathering all my willpower back together, and start again after Christmas.

to all, and I hope those of you up north where all the snow is stay safe and warm!

Lisa

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12/22/09 12:17 P

So today is the end of the challenge wow, that went fast.
Yeah! I am so excited thank you Cath for creating our team!
Have a great time shopping Kishu.

Hey Munchie great job on the 1 lbs! 11.6 lbs that is awesome I'm proud of you.
I as well lost 1 lbs. I have lost 14.6 lbs, I am very happy with that. I wish my husband would buy me a laptop for christmas....hmmmm

Nanc- Keep you chin up, that is a long time to be with company, think about what would change for you if you did decide to go. If it is a co-worker or even the boss, just smile at them first thing in the morning and with a chipper voice say " Good Morning! How was you weekend/ or night" peachy sweet to them.. They will wonder why your so sweet, and only you and your spark friends will know what you really think. I hope you have a big smile right now! LOL
Kristin- Great job getting on that treadmill, we all are very proud of you.. I hope your knee is ok, have a wonderful week.

I hope I'm not missing anyone.
I will talk to you guys later.
Oh wait so are when all done with this thread? DO we know just talk on our team board?

Edited by: CRYSTAL774 at: 12/22/2009 (12:18)

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12/22/09 10:30 A

Just a quick hello and will talk later..I've boarded the bus and am ready to roll !! Have a great day all and wish me luck in the malls!!..calories to burn and gifts to buy!!

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12/22/09 10:12 A

Good Morning, TEAM!

Our "Team" site is on it's way to being ready to go - just the basics right now - I was up very early doing the logo and trying to figure out how to make it all work so far...it is a process in the works and I have run out of time for the moment but I will post more info and direction later.

Make sure you join the team! That way we will all be able to keep in contact.

I'll be back later to post comments about the posts you have made but for now - I hope you all have a good day!

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12/22/09 8:50 A

good morning, team. i was surprised to see that i lost 1 lb. this week. i had a feeling i wasn't going to lose anything this week, so i was pretty happy. i've lost a total of 11.6 pounds in the last 7 weeks! i still have a lot to lose, but i am glad to be starting the new year off on the right track.

i finally got my laptop back from the shop. Fedex tried to deliver it yesterday, but there wasn't anyone home to sign for it. I knew I'd have the same problem today, so i decided to drive to the Fedex office last night to pick it up. its about 45 mins from my house. when i got there, the truck still wasn't back from deliveries. i had to wait an hour or so. it wasn't worth going home, but i was getting hungry. i ended up getting a small order of curly fries at Arby's while I was waiting. i only went about 50 calories over yesterday,even with the fries, so i did okay.

Nanc-- sorry to hear you are having a rough time at work. it is horrible to feel trapped at a job you hate-- i've been there.

good luck to everyone else weighing in today.

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12/22/09 8:05 A

Kishu – It was still a good decision, conscious or forced. You should still be proud of yourself.

Kristin – Good job for making yourself run on the treadmill. I’m sure you felt better after doing it. I’m making today my get on track day.

I had good intentions yesterday but after a bad day at work I let the stress get to me and ate non-stop all last night. I only have to work today and tomorrow, but I really don’t want to go in after yesterday. I need a break, or maybe it’s time to look for a new job. I work at a University though and this is not the time to change departments. With all of the budget cuts going on, I’m sure there will be layoffs. Even though I’ve been with the University since 2001, if I change departments my seniority with that department will determine if I get laid off. I guess I better just stay where I am for now.

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12/21/09 11:25 P

I decided to make today my get back on track day. I went to work and afterwards made myself run on the treadmill which I hate so much, but I knew it was the only way to safely get my run in with all this snow, and another snow storm in the forecast. So I ran 60 minutes and burned 619 calories, then I went to an interval training class and burned another 400 calories. I didn't mean to burn so many calories today and I know it is not healthy to do this all the time, but it felt really good and I am sure I will sleep well tonight, although my knee is bothering me now, which worries me a little but hopefully it is nothing.

I also shoveled today for like 40 minutes so thats something as well. I am just happy because I think this is what I needed to help me get out of this slump/plateau/ bad eating new habits...And I know I can do this and you all can too!!!!

Happy Holidays everyone, we really do need to remember after this short stretch we really are in the clear with holidays and treats, and we can really really get this rolling again, although you all seem to be doing very well even with the holidays...CONGRATS ALL!! keep it up

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12/21/09 9:51 P

Hi Team !
Cath..I luv the idea for the team name and logo..and I really like the destination..you are doing a great job !! Thank-you for the time and effort you are putting into its creation..its going to be great!

Kristin..yikes..so much snow !! For once its not in my area !! We just had a few light flakes come down..but they are calling for a big storm on Christmas day..I am having my parents on Christmas eve for dinner...usually the 25th..must have had a premonition!! Stay safe..best to wait till you can run safe then to injure yourself when you have done so amazing !

Nanc..congratulations on the pound lost..what a great way for you to end this section of the challenge!! I am so happy for you !!! It was hard to not get the popcorn..the smell was so good !! but I didnt want to go get in line and noone else wanted to either so guess it was a forced decision rather then a conscious good one but same result in the end and I was glad later!!

Crystal..I hope that you are feeling better soon..its such a hard time of the year to get sick..take care of yourself!!

Munchie..we do have a lot of different restaurants dont we ? The swiss chalet is mainly known for its chicken...we hadnt been there for ages..they now have a menu with health watch on it and you can order just white meat as well..they had a special on for Christmas...I so like it when we can go out and I can still stay on track !! Dont know that I am going to be able to loose this week..so much running around now that havent had a good workout..but like the idea of loosing more for the 5th !

Will check in tomorrow..and I did drink my tea without the milk..didnt really mind it(too much!)

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12/21/09 3:16 P

Kristen – Wow! That’s a lot of snow! Is there anything you can do inside so you won’t feel like you’re “cheating” so bad? As long as you’re doing something, you won’t loose any of the fitness that you’ve gained. Maybe your grandpa has some ideas for you. Keep us posted on the job. Wouldn’t that be a nice Christmas present to get a new job? My fingers are crossed for you.

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12/21/09 3:03 P

also....I love the team idea and picture..Team can do!!! It is catchy and I love it...I am glad that we will all able to to keep in touch and continue this journey together!

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12/21/09 3:01 P

sorry I haven't had the time to read or post recently, the holiday season is about here and I have been busy besides the fact I am done shopping, well I guess thats just the holidays.

We got a lot of snow recently about 24 inches. And this makes it unsafe for me to run outside and I feel so gross and off not running, I feel like I am cheating so bad even know I know I have plenty of time. I just hate getting off track even once because it leaves room for more errors. But I will be out again as soon as I can, and I will continue to train all year.

I have ahd a little falling out with eating recently, and I seem to have gained 2 pounds, but I will lose them no problem I am hoping and start the new year out fresh and with the challenge clean eating, which I think is an amazing way to start the new year.

Other than that I am suppose to hear later this week if I got the job I interviewed for. I interviewed for a Diaylsis registered nurse position, and I really need/want this job! So hopefully that will work out for me, but if it does not I will need to accept that and know that God has another path for me that hopefully will find me soon.

Thats all for today, sorry so long

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12/21/09 2:31 P

Crystal – I hope you’re feeling better soon. Good luck on your weigh in.

Munchie – I feel like I can loose a few more by 1/5/10. That would be a great way to start the New Year.

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12/21/09 1:35 P

Thanks Munchie! You are a great support. I hope to be feeling better soon.. You know that feeling when your sick you just can't get motivated, I had to force myself to go to the gym last night. ugh!

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12/21/09 12:57 P

Hi Crystal. Sorry to hear you aren't feeling well. I'm feeling like I may not lose this week either. Although the challenge officially ends tomorrow, maybe we can drop a few more pounds by 1/05? get the new year off to a good start?

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12/21/09 12:46 P

Hey ladies,

Sorry I haven't said Hello.. I have not been feeling really well since friday. I didn't eat very well or get my water intake in. I did manage to finish up my christmas shopping on Saturday, and I did workout on Sunday. I still feel ill today. I really think I'm just having a off week. So If my weight stays the same I will be happy. If I lose 1.6 lbs I will be happy because I will have lost 15 lbs since I started the challenge.
Great job on everyone staying focused this weekend. I am so excited to start our own little group. I hope everyone has a great day! I work all week except for Christmas day.

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12/21/09 12:00 P

Cath-- I knew you were teasing. just pointing out that you were RIGHT.... oh no, two in a row!!

Edited by: MUNCHIE718 at: 12/21/2009 (12:01)

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12/21/09 11:54 A

Cath - Thanks. You're right (Yes, I said that out loud)it does motivate me to keep it up. I like your idea for the logo and the name!

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12/21/09 11:30 A

Hey Team!

Hope everyone had a happy, successful weekend!

NANC -
on the loss for the week! That must feel great and be a nice motivation to keep to your healthy choices this week! Great ideas for the salad dressing at work and for your lunch today! Fruit for your husband for dessert is a great start! The fibre should be more filling than the simple carbs in cookies and cakes also! Yet, still sweet - nice!

KISHU - Oh, no! Sometimes educating ourselves takes away alot of the fun of eating, eh? Now, your tea is being compromised? Where will it end? LOL! Good for you on going milkless - it may be tough at first - but you will get used to it eventually...I used to take mine with cream and sugar years ago and now...nothing...it grows on you - I promise :)

MUNCHIE - I was just having fun with you - I know you are not picky - celery can also be a texture issue for some with all the strings...keep up those great suggestions for making it easier to eat healthy and stay on plan! You are doing great!

O.K. Ladies...I am really working on setting up this Team - of course, being a Graphics Designer, the logo is very important to me....ah, it's the little things we get hung up on, eh? So, I am thinking we go with a happy picture of a cartoon bus with the words "Team Can Do" on it with Slimsville as our destination...so, to combine Cynthia's suggestion with a "goal defining" name how about....The "Can Do" Friends Busing it to Slimsville! or something like that....

And then in the Team Description we would define the necessity of support and encouragement from friends on this journey....etc.

suggestions or thoughts?

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12/21/09 10:55 A

Munchie - I thought about that, I guess I could estimate how much was 2 tablespoons. I measure it and put it into a small container that will fit in my lunch box. I do have 3 or 4 open bottles at home. I should bring one in tomorrow and leave it here. I decided to go to lunch with a couple of friends today and eat my salad tomorrow. I'll still have salad today, I'm having my standby chili and salad for lunch.

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12/21/09 9:48 A

Nanc-- is there a fridge at work where you could keep a bottle of dressing? If so, you could pick up bottle to use for lunch today & then leave it at work. That's what I do.

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12/21/09 9:35 A

Munchie - I was pretty excited when I saw that number on the scale! I was expecting a gain so I would have been happy to NOT gain. I was shocked to see the loss. I have to work through Wednesday and then I'm off for the year. I doubt there will be much work going on though. My boss is off this afternoon and all day Wednesday.

I made myself a nice healthy salad for lunch today. About halfway to work I realized I didn't pack any salad dressing. I also brought some cottage cheese for a snack. I guess I could eat the cottage cheese on the salad. My daughter does that. I may go out at lunch to finishe my last minute shopping and pick something up for lunch. I can eat the salad tomorrow.

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12/21/09 9:08 A

Nanc- That is great news!

Cath-- I am definitely NOT a picky eater! I'll eat just about anything that's vegetarian, even celery every once in a while. Raw celery makes my mouth kind of numb though. i think its some sort of mild food allergy?

Kishu-- What type of food do they have at Swiss Chalet? I've seen them driving up to Toronto, but I've never been there.

I ended up over my calories by about 200 yesterday. The snow shoveling I did should have helped cancel it out, though!

I work today & tomorrow, and then I'm off for the rest of the year! can't wait.

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12/21/09 6:45 A

Kishu - Great job on no popcorn at the movie. I don't know how you did that. I always have to have my buttered popcorn. Way to go!

I just have to say that in spite of "Grazing Day" I am down a pound this week!

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12/20/09 11:26 P

Just a quick hello to all and hope that you all had a great weekend..will talk tomorrow..weekend has gone by so quickly..have a tree up but not decorated yet..pulled the decorations out..some up...got some of the outside lights working after the wind storm...went and saw Avatar..so good ! but not for young kids..was surprised how many were brought...swiss chalet for dinner..had the salad with chicken with the dressing on the side..and didnt eat 90% of the dressing! Yeah !..and no popcorn at the show..but it did smell great!
Shopping tomorrow..talk to you later !
..just found out that adding milk to my tea destroys the protective effect tea provides for the heart...so starting tomorrow tea will be milkless!!! go figure

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12/20/09 8:30 P

Cath - I know it's hard to eat healthy on the road, especially when you're a picky eater to begin with. I'll just do my best to cook healthy when he's home. He's been eating more fruit for dessert lately so that's a start.

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12/20/09 4:17 P

MUNCHIE - Let me get this straight...you like roasted BEETS, chickpeas, and GOAT's cheese but CELERY is gross??? Right! O.K. then.....

NANC - It is so much more difficult for travelling employees to eat healthy - always on the run and then they come home and want all the comfort food they are used to - those foods that say "home" to them. That is a tough challenge but maybe we can help you think of some new, healthy comfort foods without upsetting his "sensitive" palate! (Just don't expect to get too many practical suggestions from MUNCHIE! LOL)

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SparkPoints: (45,638)
Fitness Minutes: (47,108)
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12/19/09 9:54 P

I still have my head in the game

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12/19/09 7:58 P

Munchie - He also eats corn and potatoes, but no other veggies. I don't think I'll try the celeriac. I made baked chicken last night and put it in breadcrumbs instead of flour. He wouldn't even eat it and told me "you know better than to do weird things to my food". It did look a little different, but I think part of that was because it didn't quite cook long enough to get browned. I have to be really careful because he notices every time I try to change something. I'll look for the olive oil spray.

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12/19/09 7:40 P

Sorry to hear you are having a bad day, Leslie. Anything in particular?

Nanc-- he only likes lettuce & celery? Wow! I don't even like celery! that's hard! I know he doesn't like new things, but you may want to try celeriac sometime. Its in the celery family, but texture-wise is more like potatoes. You can substitute for potatoes in some recipes, but it has much less calories. I made a low-fat au grotin dish with it a few weeks ago, and was really surprised how much it tasted like potatoes-- but still a very celery-ish flavor (a bit too much for me!). I see it at farmer's markets. sometimes they call it celery root. The olive oil spray I use is by Pilippo Berio & they sell it at the regular grocery store. I thin its a pretty common olive oil. The label says 0 cals for a spray, so I figure 10 sprays or so couldn't add up to more than a teaspoon.

Cath-- isn't the sodium crazy?? I never really gave it any thought, because my blood pressure is fine, and I LOVE SALT! the frozen waffles & the crackers where probably the worst offenders today, but it really is in nearly everything. I eat lots of soy-products when I am short on time to cook, like veggie burgers & veggie chicken patties, etc. That stuff has a ton of salt, too. I am really surprised to see that I can easily take in 3000-5000mg. of sodium without even noticing! I don't know about everyone else, but this will definitely be a long-term transition for me. I need to get used the the taste of food without automatically salting everything that goes into my mouth! I need to keep in mind how much salt is in it already. My hope is that over time, my tastes will adjust, and things will start tasting "too salty" for me. That might take a while, though!

hope everyone has a good night.

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SparkPoints: (45,638)
Fitness Minutes: (47,108)
Posts: 3,876
12/19/09 6:53 P

today isnt a good day at all

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12/19/09 5:58 P

Munchie – Good idea to skip the cookie plate at home. I’m sure I’ll have one or two right after I bake them. That’s when they’re the best anyway! I’ll have to look for the oil mister. I use cooking spray but I’m sure it’s all chemicals and not good for us.

Cath – Helping my husband lose weight is going to be a big job. He doesn’t like counting calories or points – says it’s too much effort. He doesn’t exactly eat healthy either. He’ll eat lettuce and celery, but no other veggies. The best I can do is to cook the healthiest I can when he’s home. When he’s on the road he tends to hit drive thru or order pizza. He’s not able to exercise because of his foot and knee issues. Walking is even hard for him.

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12/19/09 4:42 P

MUNCHIE - Posting at the same time - LOL!

I love the olive oil spritzer too! It is a great way to control portion sizes as far as the fat is concerned. One thing I notice while looking at your menu is I can't believe how much sodium creeps into meals...who would have ever thought that breakfast had so much sodium??? But it is good to see it in black and white, eh?

My sister-in-law LOVES goat cheese - is actually allergic to cow's milk so it is one of her only options...the have come a long way in terms of taste and texture!

Good for you for knowing what you are eating and going outside of the box on some of your choices - we may call you brave but you have good, healthy choices!

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12/19/09 2:53 P

CYNTHIA - Big smile for you! You are great!

NANC - That is a great idea about the baking! Good thinking! That way you can enjoy the parts that make you happiest - you love to bake and you can still have a little but not have it hanging around for the next week! Perfect! And that is wonderful that you talked to your husband about his goals too - with a spouse on the same page - one who would like to make healthier choices also - it is just a little bit easier to actually put into practice!

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12/19/09 2:53 P

Afternoon, team. The snow seems to be coming later than predicted-- nothing here yet.

Nanc-- your cookie idea sounds good. To take it a step further, though...maybe skip the plate for the house? Instead, enjoy a treat or two while your out-- either one of your own cookies, or someone's else's. Just a thought.

Cynthia-- You are right-- any of us could do this on our own. But it seems so much easier to do with others by our side!

Below is my menu for today. My calorie range is higher than a lot of yours is-- 1400 to 1650 calories. On days when I have time to cook, I usually make at least 2-3 extra servings, so I'll have leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day.

Breakfast: 2 lowfat waffles with 1 Tbsp. lowfat peanut butter & 1 serving of honey wheat germ; small pear; and coffee with soy creamer. 449 cals & 587 mg. sodium.

Lunch: 1 c. soy milk; sauteed veggies with chickpeas & goat cheese seasoned with garlic & ground black pepper(1 c. squash; 3/4 c. broccoli; 1/2 c. onions; 1/2 c. chickpeas; 1 tsp. olive oil; 2 tbsp. goat chees). 405 cals & 604 mg. sodium.

Dinner: roasted beets & carrots with goat cheese and brown rice (2 c. beets; 2 c. carrots; 1 tsp. olive oil; 2 tbsp. goat cheese; one serving brown rice). 414 cals. & 486 mg. sodium.

snack: hummus & Trader Joe's edamame crackers. 180 cals. & 349 mg. sodium.

Daily totals: 1448 cals & 2026 mg. sodium.

Two notes about my lunch & dinner. First, I love using olive oil in a spray bottle. I get a brand in a spray bottle that they sell at the grocery store, but they also sell oil misters that let you use your favorite olive oil. I use so much less than I would if I tried to pour a little bit of oil in the pan, and it seems healthier than using a cooking spray. I use it all the time to sautee veggies & add just a bit of water if I need to so things don't burn or stick.

Second, the goat cheese... I get it, some people hate goat cheese. my mom won't touch it. But if you haven't tried it, you may want to check it out. I usually use a brand called Chavrie. It comes in a funny shaped plastic box in the cheese department. 2 Tbsp. only has 50 cals & 3.5g of fat. Trader Joe's also makes a version (called Goat's Milk Creamy Cheese), and is just as good but cheaper. I'll add a tbsp or two to cooked veggies or pasta, and it melts to makes a mild, creamy sauce. Okay, enough about goat cheese!

Hope everyone else is having a great weekend so far.

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12/19/09 1:11 P

yes

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12/19/09 12:21 P

Cath – Thanks for you kind words. I am proud that I’m not gaining any weight. I’m also proud of being able to make healthier choices. Even though I ate more than I should have at our lunch yesterday, I still ate less than I did the year before. I was too full when I finished but not miserable like in past years. I just need to look at all of the small changes I’ve made. Eventually they will add up to a big change in me.

My husband and daughter are going shopping today. My original plan was to do some baking. I had a conversation with my husband and he is disgusted with his weight. So, for both of us, I am NOT doing any baking until Christmas Eve. That way I can still enjoy the baking and give away most of the treats. We’re going to my DIL’s mom’s on Christmas Eve and my in-laws the day after Christmas. So I can package up most off the baked goods as gifts. I’ll keep a small plate for us but give the rest away.

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12/18/09 11:31 P

I so need to get going

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12/18/09 10:55 P

hey Catherine, you started this team challenge so we wanted to use your can do. So my vote so far is for "Can do with help from friends" But if you can make that sound more professional, that is okay too. I was going to say something about how our friends are great sugar substitutes but I don't want to remind us about the sugar we are all trying to avoid. In reading this over it sounds like I am saying I need help from friends but maybe "We can do anything with the help of friends" or "We Can Do It" Okay now I must go I am running on and on.

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12/18/09 9:58 P

Hi there, Team! It was cold but sunny today…now it is dark and cold…sigh – nightime is like that….I tried to write sooner!

KISHU - great job at maintaining this week! And it really is the inches that are more important than the number on the scale! Good work on the TP day and exercise! Good to get those things in when we can at this point of the month, eh? Oh, I got that Arizona Green Tea at the IGA of all places if you have one where you are :)

CRYSTAL - LOL! You wouldn't want to see my more realistic version of the menu I posted! For instance - my breakfast is two eggs with a dollop of salsa mixed in then scrambled...it is super tasty and fast but I don't think anyone would read that and go - yum! And the pita pizza is surprisingly fast...I guess it is what you are used to and a little variety is always nice for a treat :) That was interesting about the labour laws in Oregon - I really wonder what it is for KIRSTIN - I will try looking on line if I ever get a spare minute.....AND…you had me at Midori Sour!

NANC – the first thing I thought of when I read what you said about your ‘lack of weight loss’ during this challenge was actually what a misconception that was…first of all, if you would have been tracking your inches – I’m sure there would be a difference from where you started…but just look at the changes you have made since day 1…we have been together from the start, my friend, and I have seen incredible changes in you! You have a completely different outlook on what you are eating, you know what a healthy choice is, you have started waking up at ungodly hours in the morning to…EXERCISE!!! WOW! There have been more changes that I can relate but they are all there and all warrant your recognition! You have done a great job and by changing your outlook and your relationship with food and exercise – you have NOT GAINED ANY WEIGHT!!! Great job! Seriously! Be proud of yourself – I know you are as I read further along but I am proud of you too, my friend!

SANDRA – we all want to hear how the hair turned out…I had a similar experience a few weeks ago!

GAMMY – A few sweets on occasion are tasty…more often than not – we only eat them because they are there…pretend they are not there or that they are a pile of dirt…who wants to eat dirt? Eeeewwww!

ANNE – Right…your advise to GAMMY was much better than mine…I retract.

MUNCHIE – Adding in the vitamins each day will help you in so many ways but a huge way will be the healing process of your ankle – and to offset the antibiotics in your system…try to eat some yogurt with probiotics in them as well…when I receive my Doctorate – it will all make much more sense…LOL! And I hope the storm isn’t too bad for you – you don’t have much to work off….you did very well! Props!

CYNTHIA – I just love you like a sister! Oh, wait – that’s because you are my sister! (I just know you will laugh when you read that!) What about the brainstorming we were going to do on the team name – and how I was going to secretly TELL you what name to nominate??? Is it too late? LOL!

Clearly, I need my rest - I am starting to sound like my 6 year old...that's not true - she is brilliant - I am not!

Have a great night!

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12/18/09 4:24 P

Crystal-- the meal overall looks fairly healthy. There are much worse things you could have spent the calories on! Sounds like you tend to keep to the low end of your calorie range, which helps to offset days like yesterday.

Our party today was nice. I had a light lunch, and then at the party had a cookie, a home-made biscotti, and 2 mini brownies. Compared to how I usually would have eaten at a holiday party, I am pretty happy with myself.

We are expecting a big storm to hit tomorrow, so I am stopping by the grocery on the way home to make sure I'm stocked up on healthy snacks & plenty of tea for the weekend. At least6 I'll get plenty of exercise in shoveling the snow!

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12/18/09 3:36 P

i think I figured it out holy cow!

I ate 1839 calories yesterday!
it's a new day.

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12/18/09 3:19 P

Crystal - I wouldn't even being to know how to track that. I can't track my lunch today either, so I'm not going to. I'm just going to start fresh tomorrow.

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12/18/09 12:22 P

HI Ladies,

SO I made it through my Christmas party, I don't think I did to good, but I have 4 days until weigh in and I am back on track today. So this is what I had at the restaurant. I don't know how to calculate it, maybe you guys can help. I did do the drinks yikes holy cow....
Garden Salad
Field greens, carrots, cucumbers,
Onions with balsamic vinegar
Tuscan Chicken
1 (breast about 4oz)chicken sautéed zucchini
(about 1 cup), in a roasted garlic white wine sauce
with mashed potatoes (something in them that I know probably had alot of calories, becasue they were so good.
1 BITE of German chocolate cake, and 1 BITE of strawberry torte cake. I refined from the whole slice

Midori Sour (6-oz) 219 Calories had 3 oops!
Carbs 47g per drink

Everything was so yummy.

As for vities, I have a very hard time remembering them, and then when I do I have a bad taste in my mouth. But i do like going in and getting the B12 shot this time of year it makes me feel alot happier.

Hope everyone is doing well! I will love to have some feed back on how to calculate the food.

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12/18/09 11:45 A

Kishu - I think my problem is that I need to be more religious about my tracking. I think I'm actually eating more than I'm counting. My main goal through the holidays is to not gain.

I've been into the grazing day snacks already. I started with a bowl of fruit but then I had to eat some of the caserole that my boss made. She left out the spinach just for me so I felt obligated. Jeesh. Listen to me justifying overeating.

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12/18/09 10:54 A

Good morning, team!! I hope that everyone has a great day..cant believe that Christmas is so close!! Hubbie will be picking up a tree today on his way home so I will clear a spot and get the decorations ready. We were going to go see Avatar but son took the chills(rx to shot I suspect) so may have to delay a day or so..it is supposed to be really good..opened at midnight here.

Nanc..you will loose weight..just stick with it!!!..
you have made so many healthy choices that it is just a matter of time...you drink your water faithfully and exercise..maybe the sodium is causing water retention..I remember you mentioning that it was a problem for you in not going over..and since we just started to track it, it will take a little time to learn the new habits of avoiding sodium but you can do this !!!..and I am so glad to have met you and the rest of the team..it is a real joy to say hi to all of you each day and find out what is going on.

Sandra..hope your hair turned out good!!My hair is dark brown/black but in the summer it has tinges of red from when the sun bleaches it..one of my treats when I get to my goal is to have streaks put in.. brown tones or such..I'm not brave enough to go a completely new colour so good for you !!

Annestarr..those are good ideas for all of us..thanks for sharing!!

Munchie..I just started taking the multivitamin when I joined this challenge just to make sure that I was getting everything that I needed..I havent tracked it..that was interesting to find out...made me glad that I started!!

Have a wonderful day all and hope to chat later!
Check out the article posted by SP on ' Top 10 Strategies for Success"'..very good..some we have already incorporated...

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12/18/09 7:43 A

I was thinking last night of how far I've come since I joined the 10 Week Challenge. My scale shows the same pound coming and going so in that aspect I haven't gained much ground. But I have gained so much more than losing weight. I've made some great friends and received a lot of support. I am thankful to each and every one of you. Wishing you and yours the merriest Christmas.

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12/18/09 6:57 A

Kishu-- funny you should mention vitamins... I have always had trouble remembering to take them. I didn't think they were that important, anyways since I eat a lot fresh fruits & veggies. Out of curiosity, I ran a check of my vitamims & minerals on the nutritional tracker & was shocked how little far I was below the daily recommended allowance in a lot of things-- even on the days when I ate tons of produce. So lately I have been doing my best to remember to take a multivitamin so I don't get scurvy or something!

Sandra, hope you hair turns out great.

Cynthia-- your post was to touching. I love seeing what's going on with everyone, too! It seems so much easier to do this with friends than alone.

Have a great day everyone!

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12/17/09 9:44 P

Kishu – I should take extra vitamin D. I didn’t realize it affects ones mood. I do find myself moody in the winter. I’ll look at my regular vitamin to see how much vitamin D it has and maybe I’ll buy the supplements. Thanks for sharing that bit of info. I try to do the trivia questions every day. I do whatever I can to get my sparkpoints!

Sandra – Good idea to tackle vitamins as one of our challenges. What a fun way to reward yourself.

I made my veggie pizza for tomorrow. I used reduced fat crescent rolls, reduced fat cream cheese, and fat free sour cream. Ooops, I forgot to put the cheddar cheese on top. That's lowfat too. Better go add the cheese before I forget again!

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12/17/09 9:02 P

Hi Gammy, stay out of the candy if you can... empty calories at best. What I'm learning is to eat something naturally sweet when I want to go there--an apple or some of those great Craisins (sweetened dried cranberries). Yes, there's sugar but lots of healthy stuff in these items too. Changing what I'm doing is helpful to me also, as it interrupts my craving thoughts. These are just a couple of thoughts. I wish you the best, and I know how hard some moments can be. All the best, Anne

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12/17/09 7:49 P

Hi Everyone!!!

Kishu, good job on the vitamin D. Maybe on our next 10 week challenge we should tackle vitamins??? It's all great to exercise and eat a certain amount of calories, and we learned a lot these last two weeks about our sodium, yea, but I'm ready for the next step, vitamins. Making sure my body is getting the max out of what I'm eating and vitamins as supplements. Maybe we could split up the research during the month of January. Any thoughts?

Oh, as my reward for losing my 2.6 pounds this week, I just dyed my hair red. I'm waiting for it to dry to see if it's red or purple, hehe.

Edited by: SANDRARENATA1 at: 12/17/2009 (19:52)

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12/17/09 7:23 P

Hi everyone! Sounds like this season is giving us so much grief with all the temptations!! I am finding that the green tea keeps me warm and helps satisfy the urge for munchies at night!
I hear you Cynthia...I love to get up early in the summer when the sun is up but the winter is another thing!! Getting up when it is dark and cold is hard!!
This year I am taking a Vitamin D supplement..they said on the news that even if you are outside, the angle of the sun for us doesnt give proper vit D production for this time of year...they said that it can affect ones mood as well if it is lacking...Im usually a pretty happy person but I thought ..why not? They are chewable so thats cool cause I really dislike swallowing pills..even my regular vitamin pill is chewable!!
I think that name does sum us up Nanc! Good thought Cynthia!
Took my son to get his H1N1 shot now that he is finished exams..his arm will be sore but thats OK now..they are starting to close up the clinics on Monday..it was so busy!!But we were 2nd in line so it was OK.Didnt get as much done as planned but the weather is supposed to be good for tomorrow...the mall looked crazy when I drove by!!
Take care all...geez..I almost forgot again!! I keep meaning to ask you guys if you do the trivia questions..I just started a few days ago and they are great...you just answer 3 questions..they give you one at a time..T/F or multiple choice..it keeps going until you answer 3 correctly..it always explains the answers and I am learning a lot..it only takes 2-3 minutes to do and is fun..you can do it each day and get 3 spark points each day..

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12/17/09 4:53 P

Gammy - Stay away from the candy. Do something for you that make you feel good instead.

Cynthia - I'm glad we help you feel better. I know what it's like to spend a lot of time alone. I like your suggestion for our team name. I think that sums us up perfectly.

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12/17/09 3:05 P

I just want to say that the days that I feel like taking to bed and feeling sorry for myself are less this winter so far as I have all these new friends who really care.
I still have a hard time waking up and when the sun goes to bed I feel I should too, but coming to sit in front of my computer and there is usually another message some just left.
I just want to say thank you.
I think our new name should be "Can do with help from friends"

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12/17/09 3:03 P

today I am having a down day with work and in my personal life and all I want to do is attack the candy supply. Even though I know that will not make things any better.

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12/17/09 2:59 P

Kishu – I’m looking forward to going to the grocery store and finding a new tea this week! Congrats on the inches lost! That’s great!

Cath – Enjoy the time off with your daughter! I wish I would have been able to stay home with my kids when they were little. I missed out on that. We did have good times on the weekends though.

Munchie – Good thing it was shut down BEFORE your party and not afterward. How scary would that have been?

I haven’t lost anything since I started on this journey. I’ve lost and regained the same pound or 2. I’m just hoping to be under 170 by the first on January.

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12/17/09 2:01 P

Munchie I wish my party was canceled, I would much rather go to the gym after work. I didn't get to go yesterday, I had my daughters soccer banquet.
I did get up and workout this morning, but I have a hard time getting up these days.

Nanc and Lisa hope you have good luck at you parties as well.
Cath good menu, I like to keep my calories at 1200, but my range is 1200-1500. It sounds like alot of prep time? I will try to post my soon. I do track ALL my food and fitness and I share my tracker on my spark page.

Kristin-Well I know there is a law against having you clock in and out when patient are not there, here is Oregon's Law- Q. "I´m in a business which requires me to ask a certain number of employees to report to work, but the number I require to actually perform work depends on the business that day. If I ask the employees to wait on the premises until I can be sure of the work availability, do I have to pay them for the time?
A. Yes. The law requires that time spent waiting to perform work for the benefit, and at the request of the employer, be paid.
"Q: Is compensation required when an employee arrives for a scheduled shift and is sent home?

Adult Employee (18+) Minor (under 18)
No adequate work or show-up pay is required. Employer is only required to pay for actual time worked. Employer must pay minor employees for one hour of work or half of the scheduled shift, whichever is greater.
Hope this helps well in Oregon anyway.
But for the way she treated you that is harassment, so many people talk about sexual harassment, but never about Hostile work environments you should look into that.
Sandra- my nephew is only 5 I wish he could come live with me LOL. Sorry about all the troubles you are having. Nobody needs extra stress this time of year.

Leswho you are amazing keep up the good work.
If I forgot anyone I will read back through and catch you next time.
Have a great day!

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12/17/09 11:38 A

Hi Team!
Munchie..funny how things work out eh?!!Good luck on the remaining party!!
Also to the rest of you Nanc, Crystal and Lisa that I know of that have office parties to attend and goodies there throughout the day..that has to be hard!!
Leswho..you are doing well!!
Cath..that menu looks great..I will have to try it...I do the pizza with the wonder wraps...talking about sodium have a look at soya sauce!!

Off to town to get some things done and hopefully a few gifts..the sun is shining but it is cold!!!
I didnt loose any weight..no surprise given my fall off last week(poutine to start with!!)but did stay exactly the same..however, I did loose a solid inch around my waist and 2.5 inches overall since my last measure..so I am very happy about that!! I am determined to end this challenge with at least another pound off and had a TP day yesterday..will be easier now that my schedule is a little more flexible!..easier to get in the exercise and meals.
Have a great day all !

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12/17/09 10:59 A

The funniest thing just happened... Here I've been stressing out about tonight's holiday party for at least a week... Deciding what to eat, and how many calories to budget. And I just received an email from my boss saying the party has been canceled because the restaurant where we were having it was shut down by the Department of Health yesterday! One party down, one to go!

Crystal & Nanc-- good luck at your parties this week!

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12/17/09 10:50 A

Hey MUNCHIE - There is no question that it will be more of challenge and there is nothing wrong with a treat now and then - this is a lifestyle change, right? So, we have to be practical and you have done great!

Though, MUNCHIE, I have to mention that I was just saying to CRYSTAL that a few measly cookies don't and won't ever taste as good as both of you feel right now about your weight loss so far! You have done amazing and you are feeling amazing! So, keep that in mind and it may help you not to over-indulge :)

LESWHO - You have come a long way! That ticker just keeps going down, eh? Good job! And if you find yourself eating less - it's probably because you have lost weight and thus require less fuel...keep it up!

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12/17/09 10:36 A

I think I have eating less because of hoildays

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12/17/09 10:19 A

Morning! My meals for the next 2 days will be little different than usual because of holiday parties. I'm expecting to be bit over my sodium & carb levels, but my goal is to keep the calories very close to the high end of my range.

Hope everyone has a great day!

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12/17/09 9:41 A

BREAKFAST: 2 eggs, sliced fresh veggies, a shake or two of Mrs. Dash - no salt seasoning, made into an omlette with 1 tsp. canola oil and a slice of whole grain bread (make sure the bread has les than 100 mg. sodium per slice)

SNACK 1 - 6oz container fat free yogurt with 10 almonds.

LUNCH - Pita Pizza - 1 whole wheat pita, 1/2 cup unsalted tomato sauce, 1 cup sliced veggies, 1/2 oz. low fat cheese, red pepper flakes and an apple

SNACK 2 - 2 hershey's miniatures and a small banana

DINNER - Grilled chicken breast, 1 tbsp low sodium BBQ sauce, garden salad with olive oil/red wine vinegar dressing, 2 cups broccoli or cauliflower, 1/2 baked sweet potato with 1 tsp unsalted butter. (butter....YUM! LOL!)

The idea is to have 2 glasses of water before each meal and one before the snack. And green tea can replace the water at any time - a I just found out! Dr. Oz is a huge supporter of Green Tea!



Ths menu has aproz. 1,300 calories and under 1,000 mg of sodium...add no-salt seasoning as much as you like as well as freh herbs, vinegar and lemon as desired.

Edited by: CATHCANDOO at: 12/17/2009 (09:44)

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12/16/09 10:44 P

Hey Ladies!

Honestly, the worst part of my week has ended!!! My daughter is officially finished school for the year and is sleeping soundly...she is wonderful and sooo high energy which translates to exhausting when I have been working double time to get everything done workwise - so I can be home with her from her on in. Feels great! We are going to have tons of stress free fun from here on in! That is the best!

Can I mention something I feel a little proud-ish about? When I first re-started Spark People (in October) - I originally joined a challenge started by another member...I never did receive a personal message and there never were replies to individual members by members as we know it on our forum...not a big deal when you don't know what you are missing...but I have been tracking the number of posts on that forum which started weeks before ours - to the number of posts on our own...and at the beginning there were over 250 posts separating us...now...there are 46! WOW! ( I hope that made sense :)

The point is...We are doing incredible in terms of supporting one another and keeping close to this forum...that is awesome!!! We rock! And I know it is an interchange - at times we need support and then at other times we are there to encourage - what a great balance we have for one another - seriously great job ladies!

I have given alot of thought to this evil entity called "Sodium"....YIKES! There is ample good reason to watch our intake! Our daily intake should be between 1,500 to 2,300 mg a day (I don't know if that was ever mentioned) but there are some restaurants where a single menu item can contain 3 days worth of sodium!

Salt can trigger biochemical responses that prime us for weight gain! Happily, water, green-tea, bananas, tomatoes and spinach are all natural diuretics....hmmmm, green tea!!! I could go on but I have a double purpose exercise for us to do....

I think it would be helpful for each one of us to be reminded and remind each other what a "healthy eating plan" day consists of in terms of food items and sizes in this season where bigger seems to be better!

So, here is the challenge if you choose to accept - post one days worth of meals and snacks that show portion size and a low sodium count - it can consist of the foods we choose on a daily basis or what we feel would be good food choices...whichever - but it will help to reinforce what is normal for a single meal as opposed to the excess that seems to be acceptable this time of year - it will help us to stay focused and keep our perspective with all the bevy of choices around us.

I will post mine first thing in the morning if you all would like an example...as I am almost asleep as I write this...good night to all!

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12/16/09 8:20 P

You're right Cynthia..you win !! But it is fun having so much choice ..I luv trying all the new flavours !!..and our team is the lo cal version to chocolate isnt it ?!!LOL
..the girls are right Sandra..I absolutely agree with your decision and it sounds like it is the best thing to do..dont feel guilty..you already put yourself out there for your nephew and provided a great opportunity...it will all work out...

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12/16/09 6:20 P

Sandra - Don't feel guilty for sending your nephew back home. It's not your fault he couldn't find a job and help out at your house. I completely understand you wanting to spend some time alone with your husband. My youngest moved out a year ago and I don't think I'd want anyone else moving in at this point. You did all you could for him. He's not your responsibility. You are not being selfish! You are doing what you need to do. I hope that doesn't come across like I'm yelling at you, I'm supporting you.

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12/16/09 6:11 P

Thanks Cynthia and everyone else for letting me vent this morning. We purchased a plane ticket for him back to Colorado for next Wednesday. I'm going to miss him and I feel bad that he couldn't make a go of it here in Florida but I do believe we gave him every chance we could. the doctor said he might get better in a few weeks but maybe not. I just got done raising my kids and was kinda liking my independence with my husband. I'm not sure I have the will in me right now to take care of someone else so soon. Wow I sound selfish. I feel guilty but I know I can't take the driving around everyday and financially supporting him. I'm sure it would send me into a depression. My sister is happy to have him back though so there is no hard feelings on anyone's part.

So tomorrow is back to the gym for me. Thanks everyone.

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12/16/09 5:23 P

Ok Kishu I think I win I have many teas. I counted my containers of teas and as I got down to a few I put them into cute jam containers so I counted them and I own 52 different types of tea. Most these days are caffine free, but I keep my favourite Earl Grey Tea but found I can only drink it in the am and on an empty stomache.
You know the thing that I like about our team is that we have some one who is listening when we vent so we do not have to go searching for chocolate. So sorry about your nephew, Sandra but keep us informed. We really are good listeners. cynthia

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12/16/09 4:51 P

kish-- 14 boxes of tea??? I thought I had a lot!

nanc-- hope you are staying awake over there! I'm finishing up a few things & hope to leave soon. It is soooo cold here, but I'm planning on a walk with the dog when I get home.

Hope everyone has a good night.

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12/16/09 4:29 P

I'm ready for a nap! I didn't get enough sleep and I have only boring, piddly things to do at work. I've been updating a chart with #'s and going through files organizing them and cleaning out duplicates. Ugh. I can't wait to get out of here. One more hour to go.

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12/16/09 3:51 P

Hi! Exercise is done..gazelle, crunches and snow shovelling !!! Right on with my calories so far..on my way to a TP day!!

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12/16/09 10:41 A

Good morning team!! So happy to be able to post and say hello ! Once again we are getting snow squalls that are causing slippery roads but I dont have to drive anywhere!! Yeah!!! All exams are finished and now I can concentrate on Christmas and getting caught up around home!I still dont have all the Christmas decorations up!!..or the tree!!!

Major congratulations to everyone on their weight losses..AWESOME..so motivating!! I am going to weigh in tomorrow as it is also my measure day..hoping to get back on track after this last week..did my workout last night and will do again today as last night was just a baby workout !!

Cath..I am so glad that you had an awesome weekend and that your daughter had a great time too !! I know what you mean about feeling complete when you are all together..I still feel that way when my son is away with friends for the evening...dreading the day when he moves out..that will be a major adjustment for me...but will worry about that when the time comes..for now I am just going to enjoy his presence..he feels that his exams went well and he did really apply himself so heres hoping!! I just knew that those running shoes were going for the ride Cath..at least you had intentions !!! LOL

Sandra..so sorry about your nephews injury...hopefully he can get either compensation or disability to help out..thats a huge financial burden for you and such a hard injury to deal with..about 8 years ago my hubbie suffered a severe head injury while working and it was a terrible time..because he is self employed we had to deal with it on our own and it was so hard..I had to take on 2 jobs and try to deal with all the appts etc...it takes so long for that type of injury to heal but we were so lucky that he was not killed..he is OK now except for bad sinus headaches which he can control but at least he recovered fully otherwise ...we were very fortunate and I hope that your nephew is able to do so as well! it took a lot of time and effort but stay positive and it will all sort itself out..you have a big heart to have taken him in at the beginning! Congrats on your weight loss!!

Kristin..I think that it is so wrong for anyone to yell like that ..shame on her !! of course, you were doing the right thing to phone in and let them know you would be late...and yes, it is the law here for a minimum of 4 hours pay to be given...you do need to work somewhere where you will be treated with respect and dignity....dont let them get the best of you..and to do a workout..see, thats where I blew it this week..I ate! so you did a great job of handling the situation and doing a great workout!!

I have officially decided that I am a green tea junkie..and luving it!! I go to a different store for groc every week and I cant wait to get to check out their tea isle!!..and it seems like each store has something a little different..I have 14 different kinds now..but the variety is great and I could be developing worse vices!!..but I will make sure to stay away from the toffee one Cath..thanks for the heads up !! I still havent come across the acai/pom mix..or any arizona tea bags ..maybe I need to try a specialty store?

Cynthia..it must be hard to have been on vacation with your hubby 24/7 and then be on your own...but it sounds like you are handling it well !!...I have a tony little gazelle too..I really like it a lot..I had a severely ruptured disc and sciatica a few years ago..I had never had any back problems before at all and it was such painful time..I couldnt walk for almost a year and the physio wouldnt let me sit for almost 6 months...anyways..long story short..I discovered the shopping channel..which I never even knew existed !!...I saw the gazelle advertised for months and finally when I could start to walk well enough ordered it..what a wonderful thing it was..it helped me to heal and strengthen big time without impact to my body..now I am about 95% healed and once I loose this weight and get my body core in tip top shape there will be no stopping me!!

I better stop..sorry for going on..hope you are feeling more energetic Nanc..good for you to already have your workout done..I slept in till 7 this am ..felt good!!..well except for the potty squats during the night!!

Munchie and Crystal..you guys are rocking and inspiring!!! I am off to workout now...

Have a great day all !!

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12/16/09 10:24 A

Sandra – He works as a trainer for all of the Wal-Mart Tire and Lube Centers. He covers 11 states. He’s in Arkansas this week for his annual review. I didn’t really have the energy to get up at 5 and work out, but I knew I’d feel worse if I slept an hour longer and didn’t work out. I’m sorry you’re having to deal with your nephew. He sounds like our nephew! My sister-in-law lived in a duplex and let him live in the other half. She moved to North Carolina and we bought the duplex from them. We had to evict our nephew because he wasn’t paying rent. He finally got his act together and joined the Army. I think we gave him the extra kick that he needed to get started acting like a grown up. He’s 27 so I totally understand what you’re going through. If he was hurt at work, he should be able to get workmen’s comp and they should pay for his medical bills. Good luck.

Munchie – It is easier to eat healthy when my husband is gone. But I’m looking forward to him coming home tonight. I’m going to bake some chicken breasts so at least tonight’s dinner will be healthy!

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12/16/09 9:39 A

Morning.

Sandra-- congrats on the loss! great news. Sorry to hear about your nephew. He may qualify for worker's compensation if he was injured on the job. Since he only had the job a few weeks, though, he may not get much, but it may help until he is able to return to work. It may also cover the medical expenses.

Nanc-- sounds like you did a great job resisting that lasagna yesterday! Congrats on staying w/in your calories. I actually find it alot easier to eat well & get in my exercise while my BF is out of town. I'm like you-- I can eat the stuff he doesn't like when he's gone! I am really looking forward to having him home for 10 days or so over the holidays. I'll just have to be careful not to over-do it on my calories while he's home.

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12/16/09 8:35 A

Nanc, sorry you're so tired but I'm glad you got to spend a lot of time on the phone with your hubby. What does he do? I can't believe you had the energy to get up at 5am and work out. Wow, good for you!

My 30 year old nephew, who lives with us, got a head injury at work the day before yesterday and I've been spending my days at doctors and driving him around, so I haven't been able to get to the gym at all. Today and tomorrow seems to be the same. I don't see an end to this because his head injury is bad. I don't know what to do because his parents live in Colorado and I can't support him. We are going to see a lawyer this morning to figure things out, but now he still doesn't have a car (he's been using mine), his phone is going to get turned off, he'll be out of work for a while and he eats everything in the house. He moved in with us in September and it took him until 3 weeks ago to get this job (yes we supported him all this time) and now he's out of work again sleeping on our couch. Well, sorry to dump all this on you guys. Got to run, lawyer at 10.00am, ENT doc at 12.15 and a neurologist apt for him at 2:30. I just don't see an end to this to getting my own life back.

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12/16/09 8:02 A

Sandra - on losing 2.6 pounds! That's great!

I'm really tired this morning. My husband called last night after a night out with his coworkers and was very talkative. We finally got off the phone after 11:00. I was back up at 5:00 this morning so I could exercise. Now it's 7:00 and I could easily go back to bed. I've already done my workout, showered, and had a big mug of coffee. I think I'm going to need a lot of caffeine today!

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12/16/09 7:18 A

I didn't want to weigh in this morning but I thought I might have a chance of losing weight because my lovely lady humps are drooping, here. I lost 2.6 pounds this week, YEA!!!!

Congrats Crystal on the 3.2 pounds!!!!! All your hard work is paying off!

Cynthia, I HATE cold water and it wouldn't matter how many calories it would burn, I wouldn't drink it. I live in Florida and anything cold is against my religion, hehe.

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12/15/09 7:43 P

Kristen – Good luck finding a new job. It’s bad enough that they treat you bad, but to make you drive all the way to work for just a few hours in really bad. Your run sounds great! I really need to get more serious about my exercising.

Cynthia – I’ve hear that your body burns more calories when you drink cold water because it has to heat the water up to your body temperature. I think the most important thing is to just be sure you drink enough water. I am cooking for myself a lot of the times. I treat myself to things that my husband won’t eat. I eat the leftovers for lunch or for dinner later in the week.

Crystal – Someone one at work is bringing both fruits and veggies. The office is providing the meat from a barbeque place here in town. There will be turkey, beef and pork so I’ll have the turkey. I’ll skip the bun to cut those calories out and stick to salad, veggies and fruit. I’ll also drink plenty of water. Woo Hoo for losing the 3.2 pounds! That’s great!

I logged in my food for the day, doing my best to estimate for lunch. I'm okay on calories and fat, but over on sodium. I made myself some canned sweet potatoes, and warmed up some ham and green beans to go with it. Now I'm done eating for the night.

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12/15/09 5:03 P

Crystal-- Its on! we can do it!! Thursday's party is at a latin place-- almost all fried appetizers... Most of it will have meat, though, so I'll probably just be having a few tostones (fried plantains...yum). but friday is the dreaded Baked Goods Day... THAT is the one that will take all of my willpower! I really want to get into the 190s by the new year, so another good week is just what I need.

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12/15/09 4:56 P

CYNTHIA - Good for you for not eating in front of the t.v. and treating yourself to something nice - not just a thrown together "whatever"! Often we will go through the work of making something for or spouses or friends but not for ourselves..But hey! We are worth it! Great job! Your exercise routine sounds good and varied - hard to get bored when you switch it up like that. As for the water...drinking water any which way is GREAT! They say that cold water helps to speed your metabolism up a bit to warm up the liquid but it would be minimal - best to drink it whichever way makes you happiest :)

CRYSTAL....................



on losing over 3 lbs this week! You have to be so proud of yourself and sticking to this program!!! Yes, the group is a great support and has really helped us all! Great job! Keep it up! Your motivation HAS to be high! YIPPEE!!!

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12/15/09 4:44 P

That's right Munchie! I will think of you on Thursday! We can do this, how about alittle challange. 2-3 lbs next week! Let's go girl!

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12/15/09 4:31 P

Crystal-- this week's loss is just what we need to eat right at the parties!we will be the ones NOT inhaling the tray of cookies! Or getting tipsy b/c we skipped lunch to save calories-- bad idea,and I'm guilty of it in the past! But not this year-- one mojito is my limit!

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12/15/09 4:22 P

First I have to give congrats to Kristin, 5k is amazing I know that is something I could not accomplish at this point in my life. That is very inspiring; I bet your grandpa is so proud of you.

Cynthia congrats on your new addition to your family..

MUNCHIE!!!! OMG! Great job I knew you would lose this week 3.4 lbs amazing all your hard work has paid off! I also have a holiday party on Thursday. I know I will stay on track, because this is so important to me. And after your amazing week you will be successful as well. I agree losing weight in the moment is hard, and I think that is a great idea, having this 10 week challenge is how we all came together/

Cath- I love the Oregon coast there is no place I rather be, well beside Florida! I live about 1 hr 30 mins from the coast.
I'm glad to hear you had a great time on your anniversary! And stayed away from the BUTT-R. lol I can’t wait to hear another funny story.

Nanc- Good luck on Friday, I know you will do really good at staying away from the yummy stuff. Bring a fruit tray and veggie tray! When I went shopping on black Friday (the day after thanksgiving) I burned 904 calories, just by shopping, so I bet you burned a lot. I have few more things to get then I’m done also thanks goodness.


OK! I guess I need to tell you all, since it is weigh in day! I was pretty stressed all week about not thinking I was going to lose, I stuck with it and I lost…………………. Wait for it …………… 3.2 lbs!!!!!!!!! Holy smokes yeah ME! That is 13.6 lbs in 5 weeks, not bad..
Thanks ladies for all your support!

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12/15/09 1:53 P

Hello it is tough when You only have yourself to make dinner for. But I have decided not to be eating dinner in front of the T.V. but to set the table for me alone. I put on my music, whatever I feel like at the time. I also picked up some day old flowers to brighten my table. I do make a real meal and freeze his portion that he should have gotten and then have it for lunch or dinner another day.
For exercise I alter between the Wii fit and we have a Tony Little Gazelle. While I do watch T.V. sometimes I sit on my big exercise ball and try lifting 1 leg then the other. But lately to stop putting things in my mouth I have been knitting the new grand daughter a colourful blanket.
Okay I am off to make a pot of tea, it feels too cold for water, but I will drink some also. Is it better to drink water cold or room temperature I have read both ways in the weight loss magazines and am confused.

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12/15/09 12:35 P

I live in New Jersey

Thanks everyone and yeah maybe I should look into it. My shift is suppose to be from 5-9 but if my appointments stop at 7 then they make me sign out because they think it is dumb to pay me for time I didn't do anything, but anyway yeah I should look into and I am hoping to leave there ASAP!

Thank goodness me and my boyfriend of about 4 and a half yeahs decided not to do christmas presents. Neither of us really have enough money to do so and it is always so hard for us to find something the other one actually likes. So this works out better we are going to just do something fun instead, even if thats just making cookies together! I'll let him eat most of them though of course haha...

I just got back from a 60 minute run and it felt GREAT!!!! it is actually very nice outside here today, i got to run in shorts and thin long sleeve shirt. I think I ran my fastest pace yet for my longer distance runs!...It was probably about 8:50/mile which isn't great but great for me at this point in my training.

Haha its always funny when we post at the same time, sorry if it messes up your post, I know that can be annoying.

HOPE EVERYONE HAS A GREAT DAY!!!!

Edited by: UHOHDREAMIN at: 12/15/2009 (12:35)

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12/15/09 11:52 A

Munchie – When I make lasagna, I use lean ground beef and then rinse it with hot water to get as much of the grease out as I can. I also use lot fat cheese so it’s better. I’m sure the one at lunch will be full of fat. I can relate to how you feel when your BF is gone. My hubby was out of town all last week and left again yesterday. He’ll be home sometime on Wednesday and I’m hoping he’s home until after the first of the year.

Sandra – My husband can be hard to shop for. He always makes me a list but I’d like to get him something that’s a surprise too. He also buys what ever he wants too. I like the idea of the “Get Out of Jail Free” cards. LOL. Be sure you log in your cleaning as exercise today. That sounds like a lot of work. I think I’d rather go to the gym!

Cath – I didn’t get up that early on purpose! I actually woke up the first time at 3:30 and then went back to sleep until 4:30. That’s normal for me when my hubby is gone. He’s been traveling like this or 2 years, but with him being home part of the time and gone part of the time, I don’t think I really have a chance to get used to it. Tonight might be a Tylenol PM night. Thanks for the reminder to drink my water before lunch.

Kristen – Don’t ever feel like you have to apologize for venting. That’s what friends are for. I’m sorry they treat you so crappy at your job. You did great though by working off your stress instead of eating through it. Good for you! Hang in there, you’ll find a new job soon.

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12/15/09 10:27 A

KIRSTIN - Just did it again - posted same time as you!

I'm not sure how the labour board works in the States but here - it is illegal for any employer to call you into work for a minimum of 4 hours. You can work for only 3 but by law - they have to pay you for 4...you should check into that. What state do you live in again? That really makes me angry for you that she treated you like that! It's probably because she knows you are too nice to ever say anything back and that you need the job so you wouldn't jeopardize it....that sucks!

Great job on the exercise, though - that is a very good way to blow off steam! Just keep looking for something else and then rejoice in the fact that they will really miss you when you are gone!

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12/15/09 10:20 A

SANDRA - Ha, ha! I always find myself posting the same time as someone else no matter what time I do it - last night - it as the same time as NANC...we are an active team!

I did the same thing as you this morning - I think because my schedule is off - I have no idea what day it is! It is 11 years for us - It feels like longer - NOT IN A BAD WAY! LOL! It's just difficult for me to think of my life ever without him even though we didn't get married until I was....(doing the math...)27? Hmmm, I guess that's about right!

Don't worry about not going to the gym - cleaning can burn as many calories - especially cleaning it like hospital - LOL! Have a great day!

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12/15/09 10:16 A

Hey team,

I am glad that we are going be joining a team together that will be awesome and so glad we can all stay in touch. YAY!!!!

Yesterday I had a huge ordeal about trying to get to work. The ramp I usually take to get on the highway to work was closed for construction so I had to make a huge loop to get on the highway another way where there was only 1 lane open (took me 15 minutes to make it 1/4 a mile. So of course I called work to tell them I would be late( half hour before shift, plus I wanted to see when my appointments where to see how many people I would miss being late)

They said no problem take your time, then I realized I wasn't going to be there until 5;20-5:25 when I am suppose to be there at 5:00 so I called again to talk to someone and I got the head women! She is a nasty nasty women and everyone knows that and hates her. She screamed at me, even though I had thought I was being responsible as I could at the time being. Screamed so more and then hung up!!!

It took me an hour and 20 minutes to get to work in order to only make 25 dollars!!!! This is ridiculous they take advantage of me so bad because they could replace me and because I don't have anything else right now. I am a registered nurse and should be treated like such but instead I make 10 dollars an hour on only 4 hour shifts where they usually don't even let me stay the whole 4 hours so I drive that far for like 30 bucks if not less.

Only good thing that came of this is the workouts! As soon as I can I am dumping this job, writting a letter and forgetting about them.

Again sorry to vent, I just feel they are so wrong and I really tried to handle it the best I could at the time.

So after that ordeal I took an interval training class so help blow some steam and it was amazing and worked perfectly. I left feeling a lot less stressed and burned 500 calories!

GO TEAM!!!!

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12/15/09 10:09 A

MUNCHIE - That sounds great! Once the team is set up we can get that C25K forum up and going too! BTW...



on the awesome loss! That is fantastic! Good for you for keeping up with your plan and not getting discouraged! It really works, eh? Fntastic! Keep up the great momentum - it may be difficult at times with all the goodies coming in but as long as you have a plan to keep it to a minimum - you will do great!

NANC - YOU WERE UP SOOOO EARLY! And I was wondering about there being 6 AM!!! 4:30???? YIKES! Well, it sounds like you were productive! I think I am part Garfield when it comes to lasagna - I always try to make sure I have a full glass of water and maybe a small apple 20 minutes before having something I like alot - fills me up faster - you will be o.k. - making it your main meal and eating light besides is a great idea!

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12/15/09 10:02 A

Good morning friends.

I forgot to weigh in this morning and had my coffee and some water already so I'll weigh in tomorrow. I weighed in last Wednesday anyway. I'm always a little off anyway, hehe.

Kristin - 5k already? What an inspiration you are for me. I'm so proud of you! What running shoes do you wear?

Kishu - How's the barn coming? I hate working in ours because all the stalls are dirt. We did concrete the tack rooms this last summer so they're at least better.

Cynthia - Congrats on the new grandbaby! I wish I had me a few. In time I guess.

Nanc - Good for you getting all your shopping done, and yes you should count shopping as exercise, hehe. It really does burn quite a bit of calories as long as you don't stop by the food court. I don't know what to get my husband. He's so hard to shop for because he just buys whatever he wants and really doesn't need or want anything. He did say that he would like me to make up coupons for 'Get Out of Jail Free' cards that would let him off the hook from when I get mad at him, hehe.

Munchie - WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!! 3.4 pounds!!!! Good for you!!!!

Cath - I'm so glad your anniversary trip went so good for you. How many years is it now?

Today I'm going to scrub my bedroom and bathroom like a hospital. Just board I guess. I'm not going to the gym today. My body needs a break I guess so I feel like I need to be productive in some other way. Have a great day everyone!

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