Sorry I've been late in welcoming some of you. This past year has been a mess. Moving from a 4-br house that was full of junk in WI to a 2-br place just outside Nashville, TN has taken my mind and body. The worst is over, I think. We will be in TN and be hooked up to internet in July. Hope to see more of YINZ (plural "you") soon. I'm at McDonald's on their WIFI today.
Boo, Barb, BSue, WoodsBooger, Queen Legarathien of Nargothrond
SparkPoints: (76,975)
Fitness Minutes: (59,585) Posts: 11,653 5/7/13 3:06 P
everyone!
Checking back after a long hiatus! Going to read a few forums to see how everyone is doing.
Valerie
461 Days since: I quit smoking
0
125
250
375
500
PEACEFROGGER
SparkPoints: (2,312)
Fitness Minutes: (613) Posts: 74 5/6/13 8:32 P
Hello! My name is Rachel, I'm returning to SparkPoeple after a few years of chaos... Hoping to stay motivated this time!! I'm so glad to see some freethinking groups on here & I just wanted to say hi!
"Don't compromise yourself. You are all you've got." ~ Janis Joplin @--,--'---
Pounds lost: 9.2
0
22.5
45
67.5
90
BOPPY_
SparkPoints: (17,632)
Fitness Minutes: (13,174) Posts: 929 2/15/13 7:01 P
Great name; great charter. I love you guys. Sorry it took me so long to find you. (You might want to take a peek at my Religion III blog!
I'm 66 years old, and I live in New Hampshire. There's more detail on my SparkPage and in my blog posts.
irreverentLee
P.S. I quit Zuckerbook, and stick to Google+.
Lee -- Need to meet new people with new ideas and perspectives? . *** Sure, you do ***! ;-)
SparkPoints: (778)
Fitness Minutes: (481) Posts: 13 2/12/13 5:37 P
Hello Everyone!
I'm very happy to have found this team and hope to inspire others as well as to be inspired by others lol.
My attraction to this team was the name first, of course, and also the idea that I could share my thoughts, feelings and criticisms of whatever - myself, theology, politics, etc., - without being called names, being unfriended and blocked. Oh, wait...that's Facebook lol.
I am an atheist, but did not arrive at this point without having traveled a LONG path to get here - starting with my 25-year "career" as a christian (raised pentecostal/evangelical). That's definitely a story for another time lol.
Suffice to say, everyone's story is unique, but with weight loss and a healthy lifestyle on everyone's mind, I believe we are all after the same goal and it will be fun interacting with the team and reaching our goals together.
Yay team!
Pounds lost: 12.6
0
11.55
23.1
34.65
46.2
JENKOP11
Posts: 170 1/20/13 8:47 P
So happy to find this team. While I am usually not terribly hostile to the religious, it's nice to have a place where every signature is not some verse. I love quotes - I am as pithy as they come, but I worry that when speaking with a more devout person that we won't understand each other.
Anyways - my name is Jen, very early 40s, and I am carrying around a petite female in extra weight. So - here I am!! I look forward to all of the witticism I am sure I will discover on here.
Goals:
1. Get into the teens 2. Lose the Xs 3. Run a 5k 4. 20% reduction 5. 40% reduction 6. GGGOOOOAAAAAALLLLLL,
Actions reflect priorities.
Pounds lost: 22.0
0
32
64
96
128
CURTIOSITY
SparkPoints: (6,984)
Fitness Minutes: (4,485) Posts: 145 1/18/13 10:35 A
I am but a lonely cannibal (organic, mostly plants) in a land of missionaries (Episcopalian, Pentecostal, and the ones that fell through the cracks). Make ready the condiments.
current weight: 214.0
230
212.5
195
177.5
160
FITVENTI
Posts: 24 1/15/13 5:14 P
Hi all. I'm Venti. I'm so glad to find this group. I live in a military community where I really almost never meet anyone who I connect with. I spend a lot of time keeping my mouth shut and it's exhausting. "Oh, no, I don't want to join your Jesus women's knitting circle, thanks though," and "Nope, I didn't catch O'Reilly last night..." has been all of my conversations. While I don't want to be negative, (to each their own, right?) I'm happy I found a team where I can be free to talk about whatever I want and not have it come back to why I need to go to church or homeschool or whatever. About me:
I'm married with one baby. That's quite enough for me. I've been a vegetarian since the mid-nineties. Not eating meat doesn't necessarily mean I eat healthy. In fact it usually means bagels. I'm ready to take control over my health this year and crawl out of the shame spiral of emotional eating. It's up to me. I enjoy getting outdoors and will walk for miles, especially in big cities.
Nice to meet you all!
Edited by: FITVENTI at: 1/15/2013 (17:18)
Pounds lost: 3.0
0
2
4
6
8
LIBBYL1
Posts: 5,076 1/15/13 2:23 A
What a relief to know I won't be blessed! I am new to this team but not to Spark. Am almost at my ideal weight after a year of tracking etc then a year off and gaining back a few pounds ... I live in South Africa ...
Pounds lost: 44.0
0
11.5
23
34.5
46
BARBARA_BOO
Posts: 9,689 1/15/13 1:08 A
May I just say, "amen", ADARKARA? I agree with you completely. It's great to have you here with us in our little refuge.
Boo, Barb, BSue, WoodsBooger, Queen Legarathien of Nargothrond
Hi everyone! I'm so glad I saw a friend join this group. I'm 31, married with dog, and tired of reading blogs from people who say that God helped them lose weight. How about it was YOU who got up off your butt and lost it yourself? Give yourself credit!
Anyway, glad this team exists!
My Rewards 240 - New pair of jeans DONE 6/23/12 230 - New workout clothes DONE 7/29/12 220 - New Kindle Music DONE 12/21/12 210 - New Weights DONE 11/29/12 199.9 - ONEderland is its own reward!!! DONE 02/15/13 190 - Get favorite jean skirt taken in so I can wear it. DONE 05/09/13 180 - Order my corset for the Ren Faire! 170 - Sexy red dress 160- NEW LIFE!
current weight: 184.7
275
246.25
217.5
188.75
160
SALEE100
SparkPoints: (36,088)
Fitness Minutes: (43,512) Posts: 3,438 1/4/13 8:24 P
I see I'm behind on this thread... Welcome New Members!!!
~ Susan
Even if our efforts of attention seem for years to be producing no results, one day a light in the exact proportion to them will flood the soul. ~Simone Weal
current weight: 148.9
148.9
146.675
144.45
142.225
140
BARBARA_BOO
Posts: 9,689 1/2/13 10:34 A
Me, too.
We promise not to add to your spiritual sugar.
Boo, Barb, BSue, WoodsBooger, Queen Legarathien of Nargothrond
SparkPoints: (19,627)
Fitness Minutes: (3,004) Posts: 491 1/2/13 10:08 A
"spoonfuls of spiritual sugar" made me laugh out loud!
Welcome to the team!
Judy in Texas ------------------------ Be faithful to that which exists within yourself. -- Andre Gide
BLC21-22: Azure Destinations
Superhero Name: Captain Zero Your Superpower: X-Ray Vision Your Weakness: Crosses Your Weapon: Force Revolver Your Mode of Transportation: Roller Skates
Pounds lost: 22.4
0
30
60
90
120
TOSEEMYFEET
SparkPoints: (92)
Fitness Minutes: (0) Posts: 5 1/2/13 3:21 A
Yes... yes... I am here! All bask in my glory.
um... sorry, wrong tab... anyways, while I am here, I may as well introduce myself...
I'm glad to have found this team - it's hard enough trying to lose weight, having to swallow some *ahem* 'spoonfuls of spiritual sugar' makes it damn near impossible for me!
I have a long, long, long way to go, so I will be here for a while - may as well jump right in.
Mom to a beautiful daughter, engaged to a very supportive guy who has seen me through thick & thicker.... and now it's time that everyone sees a little "less" of me.
That's all for now.... I can't give away all my secrets!
0.0 Inches Lost
0
2.5
5
7.5
10
BARBARA_BOO
Posts: 9,689 12/17/12 10:53 A
Love your cat glasses, TOOTY!
Nice job keeping count of the crackers, MOTH. You didn't eat the whole box, like we did in less enlightened days of yesteryear, when we were more into "all or nothing".
Boo, Barb, BSue, WoodsBooger, Queen Legarathien of Nargothrond
SparkPoints: (19,627)
Fitness Minutes: (3,004) Posts: 491 12/17/12 9:58 A
Wow! What a breath of fresh air it is to find this team! Sigh.
Judy in Texas ------------------------ Be faithful to that which exists within yourself. -- Andre Gide
BLC21-22: Azure Destinations
Superhero Name: Captain Zero Your Superpower: X-Ray Vision Your Weakness: Crosses Your Weapon: Force Revolver Your Mode of Transportation: Roller Skates
Pounds lost: 22.4
0
30
60
90
120
DESERTMOTH
SparkPoints: (4,146)
Fitness Minutes: (2,578) Posts: 131 12/16/12 11:50 P
It was fun to see a group that even acknowledges that goodness does not rely on one religious concept. Humanity comes in many forms. It is empathy for others that connects us and that is what I try to focus on. For example, i empathize with all of us in our desire to be the best we can be regardless of our backgrounds and circumstances. I have been having a bit of a struggle lately...just munched down 16 crackers...but tomorrow is another day. And at least I did not choose bacon. Haha
Pounds lost: 3.4
0
6.25
12.5
18.75
25
BARBARA_BOO
Posts: 9,689 12/16/12 11:20 P
We are delighted to exist, DESERTMOTH. It's also a happy thing to have a civil rights attorney as a friend.
We're not against religion either. We just don't want religious thought to be our ONLY thought.
Boo, Barb, BSue, WoodsBooger, Queen Legarathien of Nargothrond
SparkPoints: (4,146)
Fitness Minutes: (2,578) Posts: 131 12/16/12 1:07 A
As a civil rights attorney I am SO excited to find your group. I am not against religion. I just don't want all my support encouraged by biblical quotes. Lol. Thanks for existing
Pounds lost: 3.4
0
6.25
12.5
18.75
25
CHANGING-VICKI
Posts: 1,940 9/20/12 5:12 P
Thank you.
Pounds lost: 6.2
0
14.8
29.6
44.4
59.2
SALEE100
SparkPoints: (36,088)
Fitness Minutes: (43,512) Posts: 3,438 9/20/12 11:57 A
Hey Vicki, hi and welcome! Please check around and post anywhere you want! Good luck with your goals!
~ Susan
Even if our efforts of attention seem for years to be producing no results, one day a light in the exact proportion to them will flood the soul. ~Simone Weal
current weight: 148.9
148.9
146.675
144.45
142.225
140
CHANGING-VICKI
Posts: 1,940 9/18/12 5:54 P
I'm a 56 year old woman that has about 60 or so pounds to lose but losing weight for me is extremely slow, so can use all the added support I can get. I'm just getting back into regular exercise after the all clear from breaking my wrist 6 weeks ago and having to get 3 plates and 8 screws in it. Still have to do the PT on it, but I can go full speed with what I need to do to get my weight down.
Pounds lost: 6.2
0
14.8
29.6
44.4
59.2
GINGERD03
Posts: 227 8/31/12 12:38 P
Thanks so much for the welcome
"It's not whether you get knocked down; it's whether you get up."~
current weight: 205.0
326
279.5
233
186.5
140
SALEE100
SparkPoints: (36,088)
Fitness Minutes: (43,512) Posts: 3,438 8/21/12 3:01 P
Welcome, Marcia! I've come and gone a couple of times, too. I think I've having better success this time. Good luck with your endeavors! We vent here from time to time, and also use the threads to post our progress. Feel free to join us on the 2012 thread!
~ Susan
Even if our efforts of attention seem for years to be producing no results, one day a light in the exact proportion to them will flood the soul. ~Simone Weal
current weight: 148.9
148.9
146.675
144.45
142.225
140
ZERELDE
SparkPoints: (4,160)
Fitness Minutes: (2,837) Posts: 75 8/19/12 12:49 P
Hey, Marcia! Welcome!
I need to check out the 5% challenge... may be something that fits me. Hope to see you around the boards!
Z
Pounds lost: 70.0
0
44
88
132
176
MARCIAC10
SparkPoints: (15,762)
Fitness Minutes: (25,437) Posts: 1,320 8/19/12 11:50 A
Hi, I'm Marcia. I've sparked in the past, and came back at the end of May. Have done very well. Love the 5% Challenges, and was actually one of the leaders for a team during the Summer 5% challenge. Will also be a leader with the Fall 5% which starts in September. I joined another challenge, too. Found myself on a team with some super religious people. Big sigh! Glad to have found this team where I can vent from time to time.
Marcia
Cloverleaf 5% Challenge Leader
Central Time (Louisiana)
It's not that some people have willpower and some don't. It's that some people are ready to change and others are not. - James Gordon, M.D. www.flickr.com/photos/marciac10/
current weight: 170.3
192
184.25
176.5
168.75
161
KIMPAINTS
Posts: 3,154 8/11/12 11:55 A
"What would it be like if you lived each day, each breath, as a work of art in progress? Imagine that you are a masterpiece un folding, every second of every day, a work of art taking form with every breath. " Thomas Crum
Pounds lost: 30.0
0
14.75
29.5
44.25
59
SALEE100
SparkPoints: (36,088)
Fitness Minutes: (43,512) Posts: 3,438 8/11/12 11:18 A
Renee! Good luck with your efforts.
~ Susan
Even if our efforts of attention seem for years to be producing no results, one day a light in the exact proportion to them will flood the soul. ~Simone Weal
current weight: 148.9
148.9
146.675
144.45
142.225
140
GINGERD03
Posts: 227 8/11/12 4:13 A
Hi I'm Renee. Looking forward to meeting you all & being part of this group. Have a great weekend everyone!
"It's not whether you get knocked down; it's whether you get up."~
current weight: 205.0
326
279.5
233
186.5
140
SWEDE_SU
SparkPoints: (32,605)
Fitness Minutes: (47,055) Posts: 2,699 8/6/12 11:47 P
hi, susan (great name!) - thanks for the welcome! see you at the gym...
live every day so the border collie is happy for a good, active life! "i run because i can" coach nicole! "I AM A RUNNER because I run. Not because I run fast. Not because I run far." john bingham "Right here, right now, right choice" cannie50!
susan WA state PNW time zone +3 hours difference from EST
SW march 25: 123 GOAL met may 15: 111.0 GOAL met june 11: 108 GOAL met august 13, 2012: 103 maintenance goal: 105
current weight: 2.2 over
5
2.5
0
-2.5
-5
SALEE100
SparkPoints: (36,088)
Fitness Minutes: (43,512) Posts: 3,438 8/6/12 5:17 P
Welcome, Susan! My, what a great name you have! There is something here for everyone... I'm very close to my maintenance weight (I want to be 140 or under). I haven't been to the gym in a while, maybe I'll see ya there, too.
~ Susan
Even if our efforts of attention seem for years to be producing no results, one day a light in the exact proportion to them will flood the soul. ~Simone Weal
current weight: 148.9
148.9
146.675
144.45
142.225
140
SWEDE_SU
SparkPoints: (32,605)
Fitness Minutes: (47,055) Posts: 2,699 8/6/12 3:28 A
thank you for the welcome - i am definitely interested in challenges, particularly since the 5% summer challenge will be coming to an end shortly. my weakness is strength training - i'm in my third week of trying to develop a habit there.
i like the idea of the virtual gym - see ya there!
live every day so the border collie is happy for a good, active life! "i run because i can" coach nicole! "I AM A RUNNER because I run. Not because I run fast. Not because I run far." john bingham "Right here, right now, right choice" cannie50!
susan WA state PNW time zone +3 hours difference from EST
SW march 25: 123 GOAL met may 15: 111.0 GOAL met june 11: 108 GOAL met august 13, 2012: 103 maintenance goal: 105
current weight: 2.2 over
5
2.5
0
-2.5
-5
BARBARA_BOO
Posts: 9,689 8/6/12 12:18 A
I'm happy that you are here, SUSAN. It sounds to me like you will meet many kindred spirits on this team.
I, too, leave my vacuum in the middle of the floor.
Congrats on reaching your weight goal and for realizing that staying there will take some work. You might want to get to know the people involved in the ongoing challenge, "Live the Hell Out of 2012". Some are there on a regular basis and others pop in and out as they need to talk about things. The object is to gradually make changes that we can live with, in the way we think, plan, eat, cook, exercise, or whatever else needs work. We don't want to have to lose the weight again.
If you are interested, we also do short challenges. We just finished one for July, and I'll SparkMail you and the rest of the team when I get something together for this month. In the meantime, enjoy yourself. Our virtual gym has any kind of equipment you need, to keep you strong and sexy, and it's free to all members.
Boo, Barb, BSue, WoodsBooger, Queen Legarathien of Nargothrond
SparkPoints: (32,605)
Fitness Minutes: (47,055) Posts: 2,699 8/5/12 11:29 P
hi, i'm susan, i've been on SP for years, but didn't really get serious about it until march this year - and found out if you really use it, it works! (kind of like my vacuum cleaner, just putting it in the middle of the room doesn't seem to help much).
i am pretty much at maintenance now, lost 17 lbs since march, but want to stay engaged here to stay motivated - i've been on the roller coaster for years, up and down, but this time i want to stay right where i am. so i'm looking for a place with motivation - without religion. i'm a spiritual person, i raised my kids to know right from wrong, and religion is personal - whether you believe in it or not.
i'm vegan for health reasons, we follow a plant-based whole food diet, and love to cook. anyway, looking forward to getting to know you all!
live every day so the border collie is happy for a good, active life! "i run because i can" coach nicole! "I AM A RUNNER because I run. Not because I run fast. Not because I run far." john bingham "Right here, right now, right choice" cannie50!
susan WA state PNW time zone +3 hours difference from EST
SW march 25: 123 GOAL met may 15: 111.0 GOAL met june 11: 108 GOAL met august 13, 2012: 103 maintenance goal: 105
current weight: 2.2 over
5
2.5
0
-2.5
-5
KIMPAINTS
Posts: 3,154 7/13/12 7:27 P
Thanks guys!!
"What would it be like if you lived each day, each breath, as a work of art in progress? Imagine that you are a masterpiece un folding, every second of every day, a work of art taking form with every breath. " Thomas Crum
Pounds lost: 30.0
0
14.75
29.5
44.25
59
SALEE100
SparkPoints: (36,088)
Fitness Minutes: (43,512) Posts: 3,438 7/7/12 1:42 P
Welcome to the team, Kim!
~ Susan
Even if our efforts of attention seem for years to be producing no results, one day a light in the exact proportion to them will flood the soul. ~Simone Weal
current weight: 148.9
148.9
146.675
144.45
142.225
140
BARBARA_BOO
Posts: 9,689 7/7/12 1:34 P
Hi, KIM. My DH would love your breakfast, though he usually just carves out the heart of the watermelon for himself and leaves the part with the seeds for others.
Welcome to the team. To know the people on this team is to love them. Lots of diversity. Enjoy getting acquainted, and if you have questions or want to share, feel free.
Throwing you a "welcome" smooch!
Boo, Barb, BSue, WoodsBooger, Queen Legarathien of Nargothrond
This one double-posted. The geek squad has my laptop. One-finger typing is not my best skill. I must have hit some key by accident that sent out a command behind my back. :)
Edited by: BARBARA_BOO at: 7/7/2012 (13:38)
Boo, Barb, BSue, WoodsBooger, Queen Legarathien of Nargothrond
Hi team I am Kimmy...I have been on sparks for quite a while and love love love it!!! I think that this team looks as though I may fit in very well...As with most of us I have been trying to be slim and healthy all my life....I love life and am very grateful...I am in charge of my own destination...I am following a Raw organic vegan lifestyle...Love it...Ate a hole watermelon for breakfast....hehehe I am looking forward to getting to know you all!!! Happy happy joy joy
"What would it be like if you lived each day, each breath, as a work of art in progress? Imagine that you are a masterpiece un folding, every second of every day, a work of art taking form with every breath. " Thomas Crum
Pounds lost: 30.0
0
14.75
29.5
44.25
59
SALEE100
SparkPoints: (36,088)
Fitness Minutes: (43,512) Posts: 3,438 7/6/12 10:26 A
OLIVE_LOAF ! I love having a place to get support without religion. Hang out with us on any thread you want!
~ Susan
Even if our efforts of attention seem for years to be producing no results, one day a light in the exact proportion to them will flood the soul. ~Simone Weal
current weight: 148.9
148.9
146.675
144.45
142.225
140
ZERELDE
SparkPoints: (4,160)
Fitness Minutes: (2,837) Posts: 75 7/6/12 9:49 A
Hey, OliveLoaf (love your name....)! I just joined this group - like it a lot. Hope you like it, too. My story sounds similar to yours... it's nice to not have to constantly "overlook" the calls for prayer. But support, well.. that seems pretty abundant in this group.
Have a great Friday!
Pounds lost: 70.0
0
44
88
132
176
OLIVE_LOAF
Posts: 746 7/6/12 9:21 A
Hi everyone! I joined this team a few days ago but haven't had a chance to introduce myself yet. I just joined Spark on 6/23 so I've been exploring the site and all the teams. I have already noticed on a team that I thought would be a good fit, there are people praying for weight loss. I was raised on religion (and decided at 16 that I was most definitely not a fit there) but I never did understand something like praying for weight loss. Someone referred me to OA (overeaters anonymous) but I just couldn't wrap my head around the step where you give it over to a higher power. I got myself this way, no one else (well, I would argue my parents had a lot to do with it, but that's another story). Anyway, I appreciate that this team is here. Hope everyone is doing well!
*´¨)) ¸.·´¸.·*´¨) ¸.·*¨) ¸.·*) (¸.*~*Melissa in Kansas
It does not matter how slowly you go so long as you do not stop. ~Confucious
FLY0NTHEWAL1
Posts: 1,215 7/2/12 12:56 P
Hi ZERELDE! Welcome to the group. : )
current weight: 172.0
172
161.5
151
140.5
130
SALEE100
SparkPoints: (36,088)
Fitness Minutes: (43,512) Posts: 3,438 7/1/12 11:00 A
ZERELDE! I hope to see you in the threads!
~ Susan
Even if our efforts of attention seem for years to be producing no results, one day a light in the exact proportion to them will flood the soul. ~Simone Weal
current weight: 148.9
148.9
146.675
144.45
142.225
140
BARBARA_BOO
Posts: 9,689 6/30/12 2:59 P
Here's a welcome smooch for you, too, ZERELDE.
We're not rabid anti-religion people, either. We have team members who do have religious beliefs. Tasteful, non-judgmental people who don't flaunt religion. We enjoy our many flavors. Personally, I am an atheist who believes in "Live and let live."
Boo, Barb, BSue, WoodsBooger, Queen Legarathien of Nargothrond
I forgot to mention the name of the long-term challenge. This year we're calling it "Live the Hell Out of 2012."
As SUSAN said, we don't pray for weight loss here. We do have a new thread called "Let Us Play." That isn't a typo. It's just a place where we can share what makes us laugh. Jokes, personal stories, whatever.
Boo, Barb, BSue, WoodsBooger, Queen Legarathien of Nargothrond
SparkPoints: (4,160)
Fitness Minutes: (2,837) Posts: 75 6/30/12 2:41 P
Hey, everyone! While I'm not a rabid anti-religion person (indeed, I say go for it if it's your flavor of cream....), but I, too, tire of the "pray for me" stuff. This is definitely NOT my flavor.
So, thought I'd check this group out... I liked the friendly, intelligent sound of the threads I've looked at and look forward to checking more out in the future.
Pounds lost: 70.0
0
44
88
132
176
SALEE100
SparkPoints: (36,088)
Fitness Minutes: (43,512) Posts: 3,438 6/30/12 1:26 P
Welcome April! I used to be on a team that shall remain unnamed where they prayed for weight loss, and prayed for each other all the time! It got really old, so I'm very glad to be here, too! I've never been to your "neck of the woods", as we say down south. Lol! It sounds lovely! I'm living in North Florida, a little town called Newberry, outside of Gainesville. I'm not a football fan, but most people know about the Gator's at the University of Florida...
Again, welcome to the team, and as Boo said, feel free to post anywhere!
Susan
~ Susan
Even if our efforts of attention seem for years to be producing no results, one day a light in the exact proportion to them will flood the soul. ~Simone Weal
current weight: 148.9
148.9
146.675
144.45
142.225
140
BARBARA_BOO
Posts: 9,689 6/29/12 2:59 P
So nice to meet you, APRIL. My DH and I were in your general area last September. We drove along the Mississippi up to the Quad Cities area and stayed a couple of days in La Claire, Iowa. Our room overlooked the Mississippi. It was wonderful.
Make yourself at home and get acquainted with the people on your team. I think you will enjoy knowing them. We have a virtual gym, where we suspend reality and pretend we have any kind of equipment we want, ready for our use. There's also a spot for daily goal setting, if you like.
Some of us are involved in a 3-week challenge to help us feel sexier by the 4th of July. There's also a long-term challenge, where you can spend a few weeks to work on a goal of your choice, or you can hang out there as long as you want, working on creating that new lifestyle that promises to give us a healthy weight that we can maintain, over time. Great people and great support.
Feel free to join in on any discussion, or start one of your own if there's a subject that speaks to you. We sometimes even discuss religion, if some fool has hurt our feelings by trying to make us feel bad about how we believe or don't believe.
Here's your first team smooch.
Boo, Barb, BSue, WoodsBooger, Queen Legarathien of Nargothrond
SparkPoints: (3,588)
Fitness Minutes: (112) Posts: 55 6/29/12 2:37 P
Hello!
I am April, I am 39 and I live on the banks of the Mississippi River in lovely west central IL. I am glad to be here where I can focus on my journey without having to get into my other journeys :)
Pounds lost: 0.0
0
5.5625
11.125
16.6875
22.25
BARBARA_BOO
Posts: 9,689 6/10/12 4:23 P
Welcome.
This place IS a breath of fresh air. Very cool people here.
Boo, Barb, BSue, WoodsBooger, Queen Legarathien of Nargothrond
lol welcome to this team LULU! It is a breath of fresh air. : )
current weight: 172.0
172
161.5
151
140.5
130
KATD13
SparkPoints: (40,928)
Fitness Minutes: (14,978) Posts: 1,683 5/31/12 11:42 A
Welcome Lulu!
This is a great forum! Hope you will enjoy it!
Group Co-Leader: One Day At A Time ( O.D.A.A.T.)
current weight: 128.0
165
155
145
135
125
SALEE100
SparkPoints: (36,088)
Fitness Minutes: (43,512) Posts: 3,438 5/30/12 3:32 P
LULU! Feel free to post on any of our threads here. I love having a place where I don't have to have prayer sessions so the weight will come off!
Edited by: SALEE100 at: 5/30/2012 (15:33)
~ Susan
Even if our efforts of attention seem for years to be producing no results, one day a light in the exact proportion to them will flood the soul. ~Simone Weal
current weight: 148.9
148.9
146.675
144.45
142.225
140
LULUBELLE65
SparkPoints: (13,110)
Fitness Minutes: (4,316) Posts: 411 5/26/12 8:25 A
Hi, I'm Lulu, a Chicago girl currently living in western Africa. I'm actually somewhat religious, but in the Jesus was a radical hippie who hung out with prostitutes and worried about the poor vein, rather than the use God as an excuse to justify my hatred vein. God certainly did not make me fat, and really, if there is a God, she has better things to do than worry about what I eat.
If you have formed the habit of checking on every new diet that comes along, you will find that, mercifully, they all blur together, leaving you with only one definite piece of information: french-fried potatoes are out. ~~Jean Kerr
And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom. ~~Anais Nin
Life is too short for self-hatred and celery sticks. ~~Marilyn Wann
Pounds lost: 27.5
0
35
70
105
140
KATD13
SparkPoints: (40,928)
Fitness Minutes: (14,978) Posts: 1,683 5/1/12 12:39 A
Welcome FlyOnTheWal1. Hope you'll enjoy the forum.
Group Co-Leader: One Day At A Time ( O.D.A.A.T.)
current weight: 128.0
165
155
145
135
125
FLY0NTHEWAL1
Posts: 1,215 4/30/12 4:24 P
Thanks for the welcome! I'm digging the team so far... It's cool that I don't have to tip toe around the religious here.
current weight: 172.0
172
161.5
151
140.5
130
SALEE100
SparkPoints: (36,088)
Fitness Minutes: (43,512) Posts: 3,438 4/29/12 11:13 A
to the group!
~ Susan
Even if our efforts of attention seem for years to be producing no results, one day a light in the exact proportion to them will flood the soul. ~Simone Weal
current weight: 148.9
148.9
146.675
144.45
142.225
140
FLY0NTHEWAL1
Posts: 1,215 4/27/12 12:34 A
Hi folks! I just joined this group. I'm trying to stay more involved in SparkPeople because that keeps me on track. I've been on SP for the last 4 years but went on a 2 year hiatus where I stopped being active and pretty much took on bad eating habits. Ah well. Glad to be back and moving again.
current weight: 172.0
172
161.5
151
140.5
130
CASSIES
Posts: 1,333 4/10/12 11:53 P
Hi Liz glad to see you here. I am on a bit of a holida. Visiting dear old friends in my college town. Celebrating my 53 birthday tomorrow and 3 years since it clicked for me here at spark. The thing that was my catalyst was a high blood sugar reading. Thankful that thee fear of diabetes and the realization I was giving it to myself was a wake up call.
I would really love to connect more liz. Knowing people are here with me was so helpful. My computer crashed so I am always typing from my phone.
Check out the book the four day win...very popular and in keeping with geneen.
Let me go celebrate.
“The more we witness our emotional reactions and understand how they work, the easier it is to refrain.” ― Pema Chödrön
“Everybody loves something, even if it's only tortillas.” ― Pema Chödrön
current weight: 212.1
212.1
205.325
198.55
191.775
185
LIZZYLICIOUS
Posts: 298 4/10/12 10:01 A
Cassie - Happy Birthday! I hope you are enjoying your trip and have a fabulous day!
Sorry about your puter... at least you are still able to be here with us :)
Thanks for the book suggestion - I am big on reading... and I ended up taking team leader today at the other group... being your birthday maybe it'll give me luck ;) I'm going to do my best to breathe some life into it... hopefully I am not alone...
I can really relate to what you are saying about the blood sugar - I am pre-diabetic but even that has not clicked for me somehow... I think what I am lacking is the belief that I can do it. I know once you believe, your actions tend to change automatically... good for you that you took action in taking care of yourself...
Let me know what is the easiest way to message you, when you get back... have lots of fun in the meantime and talk to you soon ;)
Much love, Liz
A year from now you'll wish you had started today.
current weight: 236.0
240
216
192
168
144
CASSIES
Posts: 1,333 4/9/12 6:12 P
Hi Liz glad to see you here. I am on a bit of a holida. Visiting dear old friends in my college town. Celebrating my 53 birthday tomorrow and 3 years since it clicked for me here at spark. The thing that was my catalyst was a high blood sugar reading. Thankful that thee fear of diabetes and the realization I was giving it to myself was a wake up call.
I would really love to connect more liz. Knowing people are here with me was so helpful. My computer crashed so I am always typing from my phone.
Check out the book the four day win...very popular and in keeping with geneen.
Let me go celebrate.
“The more we witness our emotional reactions and understand how they work, the easier it is to refrain.” ― Pema Chödrön
“Everybody loves something, even if it's only tortillas.” ― Pema Chödrön
current weight: 212.1
212.1
205.325
198.55
191.775
185
LIZZYLICIOUS
Posts: 298 4/9/12 5:41 P
Hi everyone, one of the members here (right below me, shhh, don't tell...) recommended the group and I got such a giggle out of the description, I had to join... lovely to be here with you all... tired of being where I have been, ready and willing to do something different and get somewhere new!
Liz
Much love, Liz
A year from now you'll wish you had started today.
current weight: 236.0
240
216
192
168
144
CASSIES
Posts: 1,333 3/24/12 10:15 P
Hi all yinz new folk, If your interested come hang out at live the hell out of 2012. It's our form of challenge. You set your own goal be it daily, 4 days worth or monthly (that's my thing.)
We also aspire to ne happy beavers.
“The more we witness our emotional reactions and understand how they work, the easier it is to refrain.” ― Pema Chödrön
“Everybody loves something, even if it's only tortillas.” ― Pema Chödrön
current weight: 212.1
212.1
205.325
198.55
191.775
185
BARBARA_BOO
Posts: 9,689 3/21/12 2:15 A
How wonderful to meet all of you who are new to the team.
I've been away. (play the spooky music)
Had a good day today. How about you guys?
Boo, Barb, BSue, WoodsBooger, Queen Legarathien of Nargothrond
SparkPoints: (36,088)
Fitness Minutes: (43,512) Posts: 3,438 3/11/12 1:08 P
Welcome to our little team! I saw your spark page, so I know you're having success here. Congratulations!
~ Susan
Even if our efforts of attention seem for years to be producing no results, one day a light in the exact proportion to them will flood the soul. ~Simone Weal
current weight: 148.9
148.9
146.675
144.45
142.225
140
ANDSHEEWAS
SparkPoints: (30,296)
Fitness Minutes: (31,940) Posts: 282 3/11/12 12:11 P
Hi all!
I'm so glad to find this team and I look forward to some good discussions and support!
current weight: 160.0
271
242
213
184
155
BUDDYSMYFRIEND
SparkPoints: (10,263)
Fitness Minutes: (6,731) Posts: 790 3/4/12 8:22 P
Welcome Shazzorama
I'm sorry that our stories are similar, 'cause I know growing up sucked for me, so it must have for you too. On the good side, we're both here taking care of ourselves! Living well is the best revenge!
I'm fairly new here, but have seen that there's a wonderful group of people here. It's such a relief from some of the other Teams I'm on - nobody preaches at you here!
Glad to meet you.
Buddy
If you want to win anything- a race, yourself, your life- you have to go a little berserk.” George Sheehan
"You can't cross a sea by merely standing and staring at the water.” Rabindranath Tagore
90 Days until: Picnic at
100
75
50
25
0
SALEE100
SparkPoints: (36,088)
Fitness Minutes: (43,512) Posts: 3,438 3/4/12 6:27 P
SHAZZORAMA. I live in Florida but I was born in Oregon, and lived there off and on as a young child. My family visited last when I was 12 years old and I remember the hot springs.
~ Susan
Even if our efforts of attention seem for years to be producing no results, one day a light in the exact proportion to them will flood the soul. ~Simone Weal
current weight: 148.9
148.9
146.675
144.45
142.225
140
KATD13
SparkPoints: (40,928)
Fitness Minutes: (14,978) Posts: 1,683 3/4/12 5:13 P
Hi Shazzorama,
I'm new here too. So happy to have this forum. There's a good vibe here ~ feel like I fit in perfectly.
Group Co-Leader: One Day At A Time ( O.D.A.A.T.)
current weight: 128.0
165
155
145
135
125
SHAZZORAMA
Posts: 657 3/4/12 12:49 A
Hi everyone. It's great to find this team on Spark. I was reading the posts in here and BuddysMyFriend, you could have been writing my own life story. Sooo similar, spooky really.
I'm glad for the chance to get to know you all. I'm currently in upstate NY. Born and raised in VA, I've also lived in Florida and Oregon. I'm a freelance graphic designer.
I look forward to working on my health goals with freedom from religion, which is as important to me as freedom of religion is to the religious. Diversity enriches, and I don't believe nature intended for everyone to follow any one certain path, but we each have to find our own way.
"I can do anything, the impossible just takes longer."
Pounds lost: 0.0
0
42.75
85.5
128.25
171
SALEE100
SparkPoints: (36,088)
Fitness Minutes: (43,512) Posts: 3,438 2/29/12 7:55 P
Nice job on your weight loss, KATD13! Look around and post anywhere you like. I'm living in North Florida... just a little bit warmer!
~ Susan
Even if our efforts of attention seem for years to be producing no results, one day a light in the exact proportion to them will flood the soul. ~Simone Weal
current weight: 148.9
148.9
146.675
144.45
142.225
140
KATD13
SparkPoints: (40,928)
Fitness Minutes: (14,978) Posts: 1,683 2/29/12 7:21 P
Hi Everyone!
Praise dog, I've found a place to fit in! lol
I am a 50 yr old female, from the Chicago area. I've been on SP since 10-8-11 and have lost 30 pounds. I love SP, but some of the forums are...well, you know.
This is a nice breath of fresh air.
Group Co-Leader: One Day At A Time ( O.D.A.A.T.)
current weight: 128.0
165
155
145
135
125
SALEE100
SparkPoints: (36,088)
Fitness Minutes: (43,512) Posts: 3,438 2/13/12 10:17 P
Hello, and BUDDYSMYFRIEND! I'm obviously with you... Please do hang out here with us! I have yet to see anyone offering to pray for anyone else here. Oh, and Happy Anniversary!
~ Susan
Even if our efforts of attention seem for years to be producing no results, one day a light in the exact proportion to them will flood the soul. ~Simone Weal
current weight: 148.9
148.9
146.675
144.45
142.225
140
TOTHETEETH
Posts: 54 2/13/12 10:16 P
Hello, BUDDYSMYFRIEND and CASSIES! Pleased to "meet" you!
God Bless! Oh..no..wait....
*snicker*
"Imperfection is beauty, madness is genius, and it's better to be absolutely ridiculous than absolutely boring."--Marilyn Monroe
Welcome all. Somehow I just noticed this thread. I am happy you guys found this spot. It's my mainstay here at spark.
“The more we witness our emotional reactions and understand how they work, the easier it is to refrain.” ― Pema Chödrön
“Everybody loves something, even if it's only tortillas.” ― Pema Chödrön
current weight: 212.1
212.1
205.325
198.55
191.775
185
BUDDYSMYFRIEND
SparkPoints: (10,263)
Fitness Minutes: (6,731) Posts: 790 2/11/12 10:13 P
Hi all. If I understood the post, it appears that here is where I introduce myself to my new team. I'm a 56 year old married female. (My 30th anniversary will be on Valentine's Day) I'm planning to lose about 40 pounds. I live in California, which appears to be noted as the "heathen" state. Luv it!
Please, please let me hang out here where the rational people get together. I loved the term HappyClappies, but not all of them are happy. I posted the same Dr. Laura letter (Homosexuality is an Abomination), on another team, and got run over by a Holy Roller. Major offense was taken. Ratted me out to get it removed. And, she said that I was mean and I was "misusing" the bible. Ummmm, so you can use the parts you want and ignore the rest? aaarrrrggghhhhhh I don't mind Christians (if they LIVE it and don't PUSH it), but I hate religious people. I grew up in a "religious" family who went to church multiple times a week...and made me go too. They were into the "speaking in tongues and waving their hands in the air" stuff, which flat-out gave me the willies. And, when mom and pop weren't in church, he was abusing me. But, they talked the talk all the time, and I'm getting tired of seeing it in other threads. I don't need one more poster to quote bible verses in every post. Anyway, here I am, tarred-and-feathered and looking for lucidity. Please don't tell me that you will pray for me!!!
If you want to win anything- a race, yourself, your life- you have to go a little berserk.” George Sheehan
"You can't cross a sea by merely standing and staring at the water.” Rabindranath Tagore
90 Days until: Picnic at
100
75
50
25
0
TOTHETEETH
Posts: 54 1/29/12 4:41 P
Hi Salee! Thanks for the welcome, and for taking the time to peruse my blog. It's so motivating to know I'm not only talking to myself. :)
Being a firefighter was a great experience, yes, and I miss it. I hope my next adventure will be as great -- I intend to make it so.
Cheers to sweat and lactic acid! :))
"Imperfection is beauty, madness is genius, and it's better to be absolutely ridiculous than absolutely boring."--Marilyn Monroe
SparkPoints: (36,088)
Fitness Minutes: (43,512) Posts: 3,438 1/29/12 2:26 P
Trinity! I read a few of your blogs and I think your daughter is cute and awesome! I've never known a firefighter before, it must be so cool to have that experience. It's nice to meet you. No worries here about pushy posts.
~ Susan
Even if our efforts of attention seem for years to be producing no results, one day a light in the exact proportion to them will flood the soul. ~Simone Weal
current weight: 148.9
148.9
146.675
144.45
142.225
140
TOTHETEETH
Posts: 54 1/28/12 7:44 P
...and I had just despaired and started my own group, "Health Without Superstition". I'm relieved to know it wasn't necessary, BECAUSE THIS GROUP EXISTS! I'll have to let my ONE member know that we're redundant. ha!
My name is Trinity (glad to be in a place where everyone knows this only means "unity of three".) and I'm 37.
I was a professional firefighter for 7 years but am now a full-time student again and, importantly, a mother. I grew up a child of the military and that life is still mine, since my husband serves as well. I don't fit in in the military community, as I'm both agnostic and a liberal. I just end up with superficial relationships so no one gets too close, and too pushy.
I'm so pleased to "meet" you all, and to find a place where I can learn and discuss without having to dodge Jesus-Peddlers and Happy Clappies.
"Imperfection is beauty, madness is genius, and it's better to be absolutely ridiculous than absolutely boring."--Marilyn Monroe
SparkPoints: (36,088)
Fitness Minutes: (43,512) Posts: 3,438 1/8/12 11:31 A
GLASSGIRL1027! And feel free to post on any thread... The Live the hell out of 2012 thread is the most current where you can post your goals and report on how you're doing. Jol and I like to post out 4 day wins (4DW's). We get those from Martha Beck's book. Her theory is that it takes 4 days to begin a habit, then you string them together to solidify it... You don't have to do 4DW's, just post whatever you want.
~ Susan
Even if our efforts of attention seem for years to be producing no results, one day a light in the exact proportion to them will flood the soul. ~Simone Weal
current weight: 148.9
148.9
146.675
144.45
142.225
140
GLASSGIRL1027
SparkPoints: (3,486)
Fitness Minutes: (1,372) Posts: 49 1/8/12 10:42 A
Hello! My name is Sylvia and I live in Southeast Texas, a life-long atheist in an extremely religious area. I am a freshwater biologist currently working as a glass artist in my home studio.
I am very happy to find this group for support without all the religious drivel constantly encountered in the other SP groups. It's great to finally be connecting with other rational people is all areas of my life.
Pounds lost: 0.0
0
8.5
17
25.5
34
BARBARA_BOO
Posts: 9,689 12/5/11 10:42 P
Hi, new members! It seems to me that it would be fun to have ONE place to introduce ourselves. It's like an ongoing team welcoming party. What do you think? Come on in and tell us why you are happy to be here.
Boo, Barb, BSue, WoodsBooger, Queen Legarathien of Nargothrond
FORUM: 
TOPIC: 
everyone!
