SparkPoints: (8,326)
Fitness Minutes: (5,696)
Posts: 430
5/18/13 2:07 P

Hi, everyone. My name is Tammy and I am a 41 yr old single mother of 3. Joseph is 20, Joshua is 17 and Gabriel is 4 1/2. I started my membership on sp 2yrs ago and was very active for a little over 3 mos. but I hit a major set back and just totally gave up. I gained back all the weight I'd lost and then some and wallowed for a time in self pity. Since then I have slowly made it back to the weight I was before I gave up. My oldest son is getting married Nov. 15, 2014 and its has been a serious eye opener for me.. Looking at Mother of the Groom dress and being faced with not fitting anything really was a blow.. It really depressed me and it still does which is what prompted my return to SP. I have to admit I am not as gung hoo as before but I am hoping to find my spark again. I am 334.8 lbs and hope and pray to be 250 lbs by the wedding. All your friendship and support would mean so much to me.

Pounds lost: 0.2

0 12 24 36

48

SparkPoints: (3,591)
Fitness Minutes: (540)
Posts: 133
5/16/13 1:15 P

I have 97 lbs to lose and could use some support along the way. Since reaching my 50's it's been a real challenge to get any weight off. But I know with hard work and determination, I will lose all I need to lose to get back the body I know I have under all this fat.

Pounds lost: 6.0

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Posts: 8,855
2/13/13 5:56 P

Wow sweetie...I am so glad you're on here!! I've been wanting to get this group going again and having new members is just the thing! I can relate to so much that you've just written so if you ever need a listening ear or support I am here.

current weight: 155.0

155 148.25 141.5 134.75

128

SparkPoints: (381)
Fitness Minutes: (0)
Posts: 77
2/12/13 4:15 P

I've been lurking on SparkPeople for several years. Probably when SparkPeople came into being. I just decided to join because I have been struggling these last 2 years in reducing my weight and would like to have an extra method of accountability. I am carrying 20 extra pounds of depression weight and weigh in at 162.5 at this moment. I packed on most of the weight during a tragic period in my life in 2010 through last year. I'm 5' 3.5", am at my heaviest, am considered "slightly overweight" and am working through some lifestyle changes necessary to lose the weight and maintain a healthier, happier weight. Life is improved, but I'm stuck with 20 lbs of baggage.

I'm joining a "30-something's 20 lbs in 10 wks" challenge, but I admit that my confidence is a little shaky because of the combo of positive habits I've enforced and negative habits that I have dropped thus far have not led to any weight loss in this past year. Especially when you consider the frequency and intensity at which I exercise. My top 2 struggles are reigning in the emotional eating and my 20 year relationship with insomnia. Really frustrating, but I'm slowly improving.

current weight: 161.5

162.5 156.875 151.25 145.625

140

Posts: 8,855
9/20/12 5:49 P

We are so glad to have you here!!!!

current weight: 155.0

155 148.25 141.5 134.75

128

SparkPoints: (114,159)
Fitness Minutes: (113,970)
Posts: 33,893
9/20/12 9:48 A

Thank you very much!

SparkPoints: (32,624)
Fitness Minutes: (25,920)
Posts: 3,555
9/20/12 9:43 A

to the team!

current weight: 206.2

215 209.75 204.5 199.25

194

SparkPoints: (114,159)
Fitness Minutes: (113,970)
Posts: 33,893
9/20/12 8:58 A

Hi! My name is Denise. I have about 70 pounds to lose. I have a neurological disease called Multiple Sclerosis, but I know I can lose this weight even though I have this condition.
I hope everybody has a great day!

Posts: 8,855
9/11/12 2:06 P

to the team!!!

current weight: 155.0

155 148.25 141.5 134.75

128

Posts: 83,605
9/8/12 6:40 P

Pounds lost: 26.0

0 18.75 37.5 56.25

75

SparkPoints: (32,624)
Fitness Minutes: (25,920)
Posts: 3,555
9/8/12 3:14 P

I've been on SparkPeople for a while, have experienced some ups and downs - both on the scale and Spark-wise. I'm veerrry slowly working my way down to One-derland, which I want to reach before my 2nd sparkversary. Challenges help me feel accountable, which I badly need. Otherwise my Inner Brat takes over. Looking forward to getting to know everyone!

current weight: 206.2

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194

Posts: 83,605
8/13/12 1:09 P

Pounds lost: 26.0

0 18.75 37.5 56.25

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Posts: 1,940
8/12/12 9:26 A

I've been on sparkpeople for awhile and I'm looking for a team that I can connect with and feel a big part of.
Due to breaking my right wrist 12 days ago and surgery 10 days ago to repair the damage, there are some things I simply can't do right now as I'm right handed. That makes simple chores and cooking a workout in itself. But I'm working to get back down to a weight where I can move more freely and hopefully get off blood pressure pills. Currently my goal is to get down to 200 lbs or less. I won't be thin by a long run but I will be a lot healthier than I am now.

Pounds lost: 6.2

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59.2

Posts: 8,855
4/19/12 11:56 A

Esther!!!

We are so glad to have you apart of the team!!! I too was shy of the boards at one time too but now I don't see me having the sucess I've had without them! If you need anything feel free to PM me and jump on in wherever you feel comfortable. :)

current weight: 155.0

155 148.25 141.5 134.75

128

Posts: 197
4/19/12 9:40 A

Hi, I'm Esther. I'm an Army wife with two kids. I have been off and on SparkPeople for a few years now. I usually do not comment on the forums because I'm very shy. However, I liked the purpose of this particular team: to provide support and encouragement to each other. I'm hoping that mutual support will enable me to fight against my MS and finally take control of my ever problematic weight.

Pounds lost: 0.8

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Posts: 8,855
3/12/12 3:59 P

to the team!! Jump on into the threads and we'll be sure to help you any way we can! :)

current weight: 155.0

155 148.25 141.5 134.75

128

SparkPoints: (4,934)
Fitness Minutes: (6,470)
Posts: 544
3/10/12 6:48 P

hi im new to the group been on spark people about six months just need that extra push to reach my goal and would like to make some new spark friends x

Posts: 4,040
1/3/12 5:59 P

Thanks!

Posts: 8,855
1/3/12 5:45 P

to all the newbies!! :)

current weight: 155.0

155 148.25 141.5 134.75

128

Posts: 4,040
1/1/12 6:55 P

Hi Spark Power team! My name is Pat and I've been with SP almost 2 yrs. I'm looking for some additional teams to boost my Spark in 2012 and I like what I see/read here. Looking forward to posting and getting to know you all better. Happy New Year, Pat

SparkPoints: (177)
Fitness Minutes: (0)
Posts: 11
12/29/11 3:08 P

Hi Everyone,

My name is Marilyn and I love Spark People. Most of all the people here in Spark Power. I had a lot going on in my life and I have let things go. I am back to where I started 3 years ago. Well I have decided I needed you all more than you needed me. I was the one that started this team but left because of all the stress going on in my life.

Well I still have the stress but not the job I used to have. Yay! I wasn't able to come back as my old nick but I did create this one almost the same but oh well.

I will be doing more later on but first I have to concentrate on myself. Glad to be back.

SparkPoints: (34,614)
Fitness Minutes: (26,937)
Posts: 1,672
12/10/11 10:34 A

Hi my name is Krystal. I have been a member of SP for 3 months now and I just finished my latest challenge and did some searching for some new challenges. I came across this team and, after reading the description, thought it would be a good team to join.

I am currently living in VT with my dad for the semester, I just completed my internship as a student teacher. My college is in Maine and I will be heading back there at Christmastime and graduating in May.

Looking forward to joining some of these challenges!

current weight: 149.5

235 213.625 192.25 170.875

149.5

Posts: 31,375
12/9/11 11:13 P

Hi! My name is Patti. I am currently the leader of the Tennessee Team but thought it would be fun to keep my spark power going so that I can pass it along to all team members.

current weight: 141.0

174 164.25 154.5 144.75

135

Posts: 8,855
12/2/11 12:51 P

to all the newbies!!!!

current weight: 155.0

155 148.25 141.5 134.75

128

Posts: 2,492
11/14/11 5:05 P

Well you are welcome and glad to have you as a friend..
Huggles

current weight: 346.0

390 359.5 329 298.5

268

SparkPoints: (1,056)
Fitness Minutes: (215)
Posts: 81
11/14/11 4:12 P

Thanx for the welcome :) You are my first friend on here :) So far it is a great place to be. even though im just starting and have a looooong way to go, I am happy to have found this site. :)

Posts: 2,492
11/14/11 12:48 P

Welcome Susan , glad to see you here and thank you so much for the prayers means allot to me.. SP is the greatest way to loose weight cause you get so much support form others who know exactly what you are going through.
So hope to get to know you better..
Huggles

current weight: 346.0

390 359.5 329 298.5

268

SparkPoints: (1,056)
Fitness Minutes: (215)
Posts: 81
11/14/11 12:33 A

Hi all, My name is Susan, I live in California. I am new to this site I just joined today... I really love it so far, I am still clicking on things and seeing where things go and where to find stuff... I will get there.. I am overweight and want to change that, I read about this in a magazine and decided to check it out. I currently have horrible eating habits and I don't exercise at all.

I'm really sorry to hear about the pain you are in Marybeth, ~prayers~

Edited by: MSRABBIT66 at: 11/14/2011 (00:35)

Posts: 2,492
11/9/11 10:33 P

Hello Everyone,

I am Marybeth and I have been a member of SP for a long time I just dropped out for awhile biggest mistake of my life. I have ended up gaining almost all my weight back and now I have to start all over again.
I have Osteoarthritis , Fibromyalgia and Gerd so I am in pain all the time I sit and cry and pray for help.
Last night I said a prayer and this morning SP was put back into my head and now that is a something special to me.
Right now I could use all the support I can get and prayers I can not live in this body anymore and with this pain so I am going to work hard at this.
I will be there for all of you whenever needed.
Thank you all,
Huggles,
Marybeth

current weight: 346.0

390 359.5 329 298.5

268

SparkPoints: (16,527)
Fitness Minutes: (13,090)
Posts: 8,084
10/31/11 8:15 A

Hi there, i am new here. I now been on sparkpeople for 6 days. Tomorrow will my weigh in day , since i started on a tuesday. I live in europe. I am in my mid 20s, married and have 3 children. I have just over 100 lbs to loose. And doing it in small sets, i hope my first goal i will reach in mid January. Looking forward to knowing you all. Maybe even merge a few spark buddies to help each other on our weightloss journey.

SparkPoints: (35,807)
Fitness Minutes: (23,957)
Posts: 70
8/23/11 10:41 P

Hi I am Patty from Carlisle, Iowa. I have been SP member since June 2011. I am finally getting the hang of things & putting all the pieces of the puzzle together. I am not used to this way of communicating so I am getting out of my box. I also started bootcamp class a week or two before i found out about SP. I 've lost 8 pounds. Hoping to lose 25 by end of year. I have this month of August off of class. I have been trying to walk mostly. I know theres times i could get my weights out or Wii but don't. Seems like there's always something else to do. Thats why I like to "pay" for a class. SO I GO!! I am noticing here in Iowa that sunset is getting just a smidge earlier (it's still very warm here tho). It will be freezing before I know it. Any ideas for self motivation??? Maybe it's just a down month......

SparkPoints: (2,328)
Fitness Minutes: (0)
Posts: 1,247
7/22/11 10:04 A

I'm James from Worcester Ma I joined when I received an add in my email & looked over your site & found it would be something I could use in my day to day life

Posts: 2,860
7/22/11 9:57 A

Hi my name is Deborah. I am 54 yrs old. I live in Houston, TX. I am trying to get in good shape nutritionally and physically. I found your group thru a search for Kettle Bell workouts. Don't see any videos on spark for them but have heard it is an excellent workout.

I am going to go this weekend and get one and start out with a light bell so that I do not injure myself and I will keep everyone posted on my progress.

Happy Friday everyone.

Pounds lost: 6.3

0 6.75 13.5 20.25

27

Posts: 60
6/27/11 4:24 P

Hello! My name is Cynthia. I am 40 years young, about to turn 41 on July 6! Presently I am in Anchorage, Ak doing an internship for the summer working with at risk teens. I love it here. My home is in Michigan, and it has been nice to see a different part of the world!

I have been struggling for the past 2 weeks. That is how long I have been in AK. I am staying with a host family. I pretty much sleep and eat breakfast at the house. The rest of the time I am at the center. Because of this, I have not been getting adequate nutrition. I bike 20 miles at least 3 times a week and I am also training for a half marathon in August. I have been here for 2 weeks and have already ran 3 races. Needless to say, I need a good amount of fuel to keep me going.

Yesterday I slept almost all day. I have been feeling very run down and I realized it was because I have not been eating enough. It is difficult to be in someone else's home as a guest. To add to the story, I am a vegetarian. I purchased a bottle of vitamin supplements and am now back into Spark so that I can keep a closer log on what I am eating.

I am seeking a team that will encourage and motivate me as well as keep me accountable. I hope that I have found that here!

SparkPoints: (1,911)
Fitness Minutes: (80)
Posts: 570
6/27/11 11:20 A

Hello All! My name is Stephanie. I am 43, happily married and a stay-st-home mom to a 4 year old little girl and a 2 year old little boy, they are my life. I am not new to Spark, this is my third go around at this. I have been away a bit and now want to get back into this and get this weight off for good. I know I can do it as about 6 years ago I had lost almost 100 pounds, but it is all back on me now. Sometimes it has been a bad thing as it can discourage me that I lost that much but then gained it back. I am determined by the grace of God that this is it, I am going to get this weight off no matter how long it takes. My body is hurting so much that sometimes it is just hard to walk. I look forward to getting to know you all. Be Blessed:)Stephanie

SparkPoints: (357)
Fitness Minutes: (155)
Posts: 10
6/17/11 2:58 P

Hi! - I'm Merci from Portland, 49, and on SP for 3 days - woohoo! I'm tired of being tired, and it's time to take control of my lifestyle - because not doing so means my lifestyle is taking control of me... I want to lose about 110 lbs, but my short term goal is 28 (10%). Do at least 15 minutes activity 7 days/week, track my food daily, and be good to myself!
I've got a 4-day weekend I plan to take advantage of. Looking forward to meeting folks on SP!

SparkPoints: (9,601)
Fitness Minutes: (806)
Posts: 1,022
6/2/11 10:08 P

Hi everyone! I am an old member finally coming back. I have my story on my spark page for those interested. Sorry I been away for so long but I am coming back as a new mom of a baby boy! :)

Pounds lost: 6.0

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298

Posts: 243
6/1/11 12:39 A

my name is Cathy and I am from North Idaho. need help and motivation to finally get this weight off.

Pounds lost: 65.0

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100

SparkPoints: (40,435)
Fitness Minutes: (25,725)
Posts: 3,524
5/31/11 9:52 P

Hi everyone! I am Jessica and I am 27 years old and trying to get fit and be healthier. I am always looking for any kind of support, kind words, that little pit of an extra push or whatever. Feel free to add me as a friend or stop by my page and say hello.

Pounds lost: 0.2

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Posts: 83,605
3/22/11 1:15 P

Hi and welcome Aimee! to have you with us!

Pounds lost: 26.0

0 18.75 37.5 56.25

75

Posts: 5
3/22/11 12:39 P

Hi everyone! My name is Aimee and I joined Spark a week or so ago. I live in Tuscaloosa and I'm 37 years old. I want to get in shape and be the best I can be. I have to push myself a little harder, because I have a heart condition. I am looking to lose about 16-20 lbs. I just want to get healthy and tone up. I need the support also. It is hard in our busy worlds to keep in check. I think I have found the place I have looking for. I look forward to getting to know you all better and getting some good tips, awesome recipes, and support. Thanks! :O)

Posts: 83,605
3/17/11 7:23 P

Hi and welcome. Great to have you with us. If I can be of any help, please let me know.

Pounds lost: 26.0

0 18.75 37.5 56.25

75

Posts: 204
3/13/11 4:53 P

I too joined in 2008, then I got pregnant and nothing mattered except learning about the baby's growth and McDonald's. My beautiful daughter is now almost 2 and I am ready to get back in the game.

217 Days since:  Smoking

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250

Posts: 83,605
3/10/11 7:19 P

Welcome to the team. Great to have you with us!

Pounds lost: 26.0

0 18.75 37.5 56.25

75

Posts: 4
3/10/11 4:05 P

I joined SP in 2008 but haven't ever stuck with it for very long. I am starting over again. I have to because this problem of overeating and no exercise is not something I can manage alone. I need help, lots of it. I have done 30 minutes of cardio two days in a row and am really hopeful I will stick with it.

SparkPoints: (69,800)
Fitness Minutes: (83,470)
Posts: 10,097
3/9/11 3:28 P

My name is Monica. I am with multiple disibilitiee rest of the s and am having difficulties getting the weight off. I have stopped candies and then started up again. It seems like I can only stop things for a week at a tine and then I get worse again. I will need multiple reminders at times and things worded very simply. I have anxiety attacks, being weened off of soda, go back and forth with water, need help changing my mindset, and several other areas. I am almost done college though.

Posts: 3,050
3/6/11 5:52 P

Hi, I'm Amy, from PA! I joined SparkPeople back in 2006, but wasn't too active. I came back in mid- January, and have been logging in just about every day since then. I have tracked my food religiously every day, and now I need to up my exercise. I joined this team awhile back, but just now came here to get more involved. I look forward to getting to know everyone here!

24 Days until:  retired and full-time rving

50 37 25 12

0

Posts: 11,924
11/12/10 11:16 P

Hi, I'm Beth. Most everything about me is in detail on my page. In short I've lost 144 pounds with Spark People so far (no surgery). I guest blog for the Daily Spark every other week on Thursdays. I live in Indiana, love animals, movies, music and am looking to make new friends online.

current weight: 219.0

460 394.75 329.5 264.25

199

Posts: 4,694
10/24/10 12:48 P

I run a group home for 4 adult ladies. I do volunteer work for Special Olympics and for my church. I can get very busy at times. I have a grand daughter that is 2yrs and the love of my life I so enjoy spending time with her.
I joined SP almost a year ago and did good for many months than summer came and so did the vacations. It wasn't easy to stick to program not able to exercise every morning and eating out did it's toll. Any way I haven't been able to get it together and am putting back on the weight I worked so hard for.
I have been checking out different teams looking for a for a challenge that I believe I can stick with and I think I found one. I don't do well with food challenges but ok with exercise ones.
Hoping I can get my stuff together again because I am not pleased with myself right now.

May Minutes: 2,345

0 40 80 120

160

SparkPoints: (52,423)
Fitness Minutes: (25,427)
Posts: 13,310
9/23/10 7:33 P

INSPIREDAPPLE I am so happy you are here with. Thank you for tell us your story. I am happy you realise your important and that you are taking care of yourself.

Pounds lost: 88.0

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Posts: 1,201
9/23/10 12:35 P

I am a contradiction in terms or turns... LOL, depends on how full your cup is I guess. For the last several yrs, I believe my cup has been half empty. But, lately, with the help of two books I've been reading and with a more positive attitude about myself (and nothing else) I am learning that my cup is actually half full but at any time I can get up off my flabby rump and refill. In other words, it's all about Me.

I'm 44yrs young and I have grown children and collectively I have 6 grandchildren. None of them are a constant or a big part of my life and that's okay. I think they all need to learn to fly on their own.

I've been losing and gaining weight since 2003, that is when I was at my highest ever weight. 270. Times were different in those days and they are now almost completely behind me. I have a problem with (tapping into the past), barrel of life.

Lately, though I've been doing stuff for me. For my weight loss, for my food consumption, and for my energy level. I am succeeding slowly. I weighed in yesterday and I'm down to 173.6 -

I am learning that I can't plan too far into the future or I get discouraged. So, I am taking one baby step at a time coupled with the recent success.

So, this week, I will work with the fact that I am down 3 pounds from last week. Last Wednesday's weigh in - I was at 176.8 - Yesterday I made it to 173.6. Therefore, this week, I will remember those numbers as I am walking with Leslie Sansone in my basement, or any other exercises I try to accomplish. I will remember that 3 pound weight loss, as I am deciding what comfort food to put into my mouth and my belly.

I am also doing my best to remember that whatever I want in my life, I want it because I Love it! I'm on a new journey and it feels good. I don't know where it might take me, But, I have good intentions on enjoying the Ride!



Edited by: SELF-LOVE at: 9/23/2010 (12:36)

current weight: 179.4

283 246.75 210.5 174.25

138

SparkPoints: (52,423)
Fitness Minutes: (25,427)
Posts: 13,310
8/22/10 11:34 A

Hello and welcome Tera. WOOT! So happy your here with us.

Pounds lost: 88.0

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120

Posts: 1,569
8/21/10 5:57 P

Hi everyone, my name is Tara, I am 32 and live in Miami, FL. I joined SparkPeople after trying so many other ways to lose weight, and am so happy I did! The goals, friends, and support from the SP community have provided such an inspiration!
I am here if you need any support and always looking for more spark buddies!
Take care,
Tara

current weight: 171.0

260 225 190 155

120

SparkPoints: (52,423)
Fitness Minutes: (25,427)
Posts: 13,310
8/9/10 12:47 P

Welcome LAURELSPARK. So happy your here with us. You have done amazing getting your health were it needs to be. WOOHOO. Looking forward to getting to know you.

Welcome BLESSEDBYCHRIST I am so happy you decided to come back. I look forward to getting to know you. Remember you are an important part of your families life and you need to take care of yourself.

Big hugs
Angela

Pounds lost: 88.0

0 30 60 90

120

Posts: 43
8/7/10 6:41 P

Hi, I'm new here and am hoping to reach my goal. I started Spark a while back, lost several pounds but never got involved like I needed to and ended up quiting but I'm back. I am the wife of a Pastor so life is hectic most of the time, not a lot of time for planning meals, etc. I'm looking forward to getting the weight off and getting back in shape.

Edited by: BLESSEDBYCHRIST at: 8/7/2010 (18:43)

Pounds lost: 1.4

0 3.25 6.5 9.75

13

SparkPoints: (69,506)
Fitness Minutes: (56,198)
Posts: 6,311
8/5/10 8:59 A

Hi, my name is Laurel and I am from Missouri. A friend invited me to join this team so I thought I'd give it a try. I am married and have three boys; my youngest one is still in high school. I started on my journey to lose weight and watch my cholesterol (doctor's orders)and I found SP by accident. Since joining, I have lost 25 pounds and an more active than I have been in a long time. I feel great! I'm looking forward to meeting Spark Power members.

Edited by: LAURELSPARK at: 8/5/2010 (09:00)

current weight: 125.0

154 146 138 130

122

SparkPoints: (25,406)
Fitness Minutes: (8,700)
Posts: 9,219
8/1/10 11:36 P

Welcome Pami, we are glad you joined us.

Marilyn

Pounds lost: 20.0

0 20.5 41 61.5

82

SparkPoints: (6,029)
Fitness Minutes: (1,681)
Posts: 442
7/31/10 7:41 P

I am starting over, being a member of SP almost 2 years. I am very geared up for the POWER challenge!

Luv, Pami

current weight: 261.0

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170

Posts: 49,221
7/10/10 10:17 A

I hope I'm in the right place, because I don't own a dog! My name's Mary, and I live in Sonoma County, CA. I'm here because my Spark has all but gone out. I need help getting it burning again.

current weight: 398.0

412 346.5 281 215.5

150

Posts: 97
6/21/10 9:11 P

My name is Hilary, and I am currently "between dogs." I'm pretty new to SP.com, and still learning my way around here. I have a pretty ambitious (for me) goal set for February, and will need all the help I can get!

Posts: 1,653
6/21/10 10:11 A

I am almost 51 yr old and have been married 23 yrs. I have a dd who is 15 yr old. I have 3 dogs- a great pyrenees, a golden retriever, and a rottweiler mix. We live in lower Alabama. We also have some cows too. Looking forward to sparking with y'all.

Cheryl

current weight: 235.8

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220

Posts: 333
6/14/10 11:35 P

Hey everyone! I too love dogs. I have four of them,a Siberian Husky, a St. Bernard, an Australian Shepherd and a mut named Buddy that is adorable!! I live in a very small town in Kentucky and enjoy the good life there along with my husband, the dogs, two cats and a pet cow named Mikey. I look forward to getting to know all of you better as we work toward a healthier life.
Cathy

Posts: 20
6/11/10 3:50 P

Thanks for the welcome. I love dogs! Yorkshire terriers are so cute. I will definitely join in on the discussions!

SparkPoints: (25,406)
Fitness Minutes: (8,700)
Posts: 9,219
6/9/10 9:29 P

Welcome Jen we are glad you joined us. I love your dogs names. I also have two dogs both are yorkshires the oldest is 7 years old and her name is Gabriella but we call her Gabby for short. She is the mother of the second one and her name is Ellie Mae. Ellie is the apple of my eye and Gabby is my DH. Both are spoiled rotten.

Join us on the other threads as we are all very friendly here. We do have a chat thread that we just yack about anything. We just started this week a weekly discussion thread and we are discussing getting our 5 servings of veggie every day. Ways we can get those servings extra would love for you to join us.

See you on the threads

Marilyn

Pounds lost: 20.0

0 20.5 41 61.5

82

Posts: 20
6/9/10 5:42 P

Hi, I'm Jen. I live in Jonesburg, Missouri, a one horse town in central Missouri. I am a nutrition assistant by day. At night, I poke around on the computer, read, knit, collect cookbooks, cook, walk and garden. I have two puggies. Pikachu, the apple of my eye, is a 6 year old fawn pug. Petey is an eight year old pug/poodle mix. I have been married to my wonderful husband, Joshua, for over eight years. We are currently enjoying the adventure of him attending graduate school at Mizzou for the next four years.

I joined Sparkpeople because I would like to keep track of my calories, exercise, and lose a lot of weight. I joined Spark Power so that I can take part in on the camaraderie.

Edited by: SMALLTOWNJEN at: 6/9/2010 (17:43)

SparkPoints: (25,406)
Fitness Minutes: (8,700)
Posts: 9,219
6/4/10 9:19 P

Hi Angela,

Your biggest motivation is going to be yourself. But you have to write small goals down to achieve the bigger goal. But we are all here to keep you cheered on at the same time.

Glad you joined us here and I am looking forward in getting to know you.

Marilyn

Pounds lost: 20.0

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Posts: 68
6/3/10 11:47 A

Hello everyone! My name is Angela. I have been battling with motivation to get down to my ideal dress size for.. oh I dont know how long. Lets just say its been a long time. I dont have anyone around me at work or at home that can help motivate me or support me, so I am hoping I can find it here. Im just do unhappy with the fact that I can never stay motivated. At the end of the year I was able to lose 10 pounds, but I am still in the same size I was last year. So I got frustrated and havent been about to stay with working out or eating well for more than a week since. Ive tried, but I cant stay with it.

current weight: 217.0

220 211.25 202.5 193.75

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SparkPoints: (52,423)
Fitness Minutes: (25,427)
Posts: 13,310
6/2/10 9:11 A

Hi Elaine, So glad you joined us! Looking forward to getting to know you.

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Posts: 17,113
6/2/10 8:27 A

Hello Everyone, my name is Elaine, I
m 65 yrs old, have tried everything to lose weight, I have lost and regained the same 30 lbs the two years in Spark, time to take hold of myself, and go forward not backwards..I will need all the help I can get!

Hugs
Elaine

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SparkPoints: (2,327)
Fitness Minutes: (539)
Posts: 258
6/1/10 1:36 P

Pam, welcome to the group. It isn't an easy thing trying to lose weight. SP is great though. I am doing good since I have been keeping track of what I have been eating and doing my exercise. Remaining positive and determines helps too.

current weight: 356.0

359 344.25 329.5 314.75

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Posts: 60
6/1/10 12:44 P

Hi! I'm Pam,

I joined SparkPeople in May '08 when my sister forwarded an article to me. I've lost and regained so many times over the years, and I AM TIRED OF IT!

I joined this group because I was looking for an active group... one in which I could find support (or someone with a torch, lol) in lighting a fire under my rear end.

I know things won't change if I don't do something different. My goal is to become as active in this group as I possibly can, and maintain balance with everything else going on in my life.

best wishes to all,
Pam

Pounds lost: 56.8

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Posts: 414
5/31/10 4:19 P

Hi I am Angie, I live in BC, Canada. I have been married for almost 28 years and have a beautiful 23 year old daughter who is also on SP.
I joined this group quite some time ago but I was not very active. I found that I got involved in too many groups and didn't have time for all of them. I was away from SP for a few weeks recently due to family issues but I am back now and getting back on track. I have cut down on some of my previous groups as I want to give more attention to the ones that help and motivate me the most.
I plan on getting alot more active, it may not be on a daily basis as it's hard some days to get online when working and now that my daughter is home from University for the summer my pc time has been cut down some as we don't have the pleasure of high speed out where I live.
I have been a member of SP since Aug 09 and so far done quite well for myself having lost 55 lbs so far and many many inches. I have sorta set to reach my goal by Dec 10. If I don't make it I will not get down on myself, I will just keep working, if I can get lower then that is a bonus.
I look forward to getting to know you all and giving my all in this group.
Best of luck to you all
Angie

current weight: 211.0

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150

SparkPoints: (2,327)
Fitness Minutes: (539)
Posts: 258
5/30/10 10:46 P

Hi, I suppose that I should introduce myself. My name is Rachel. I am new to SP. I want to get healthier and lose weight. I am trying to lose 200 pounds. I know that it won't happen overnight and that it may take me a long time. I could use all the encouragement that I can get.

I am a bit discouraged today because I decided to do something for me and it backfired. I decided that I would try the fat free Ranch dressing because it is so many less calories than the regular. It tasted awful. I won't be using it again. I guess I just have to allow for those extra calories and cut back somewhere else. My husband ended up making me a new salad as I couldn't eat the other one without feeling sick.

My main goals right now are to eat between 1800 and 1900 calories a day. Ride the exercise bike three times a day six days a week, with Sundays as a rest day. Each ride needs to be at least 15 minutes. My last goal is to test my blood sugars at least once a day and do my insulin shots. This will be very hard for me doing these things. I can use all the encouragement I can get.

current weight: 356.0

359 344.25 329.5 314.75

300

SparkPoints: (25,406)
Fitness Minutes: (8,700)
Posts: 9,219
5/29/10 8:53 P

Hi Lauren!

Welcome to the team and you came to the right place to get the motivation and challenges.

We are getting ready to start a new challenge on Tuesday, June 1st.

Let's get started!

Marilyn

Pounds lost: 20.0

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SparkPoints: (6,102)
Fitness Minutes: (4,606)
Posts: 460
5/29/10 3:18 P

Hi all,

My name is Lauren and I'm 22 years old. I had another sparkpage but something happened to it so I made a new one. My goal is to go from 296 to 150... I am already at 272.

I am looking for a lot of buddies and motivators and challenges to help get this weight off

Pounds lost: 20.6

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SparkPoints: (25,406)
Fitness Minutes: (8,700)
Posts: 9,219
5/28/10 6:29 A

Hi Emily,

We are glad you joined us and we are looking forward in getting to know you as well.

Please join us on the other threads, we also have a chat thread that you can come talk about anything you want. That is a good way to get to know everyone also.

I will be getting a challenge together soon which everyone loves to do as it gives us that push. I will be sending out an email more about it later once I get all the details together.

See you on the other threads.

Marilyn

Pounds lost: 20.0

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SparkPoints: (1,192)
Fitness Minutes: (300)
Posts: 31
5/27/10 11:32 P

Hi! My name is Emily. I live in Minnesota with my mom, sister and cat. I go to college in Wisconsin which is fun, but it's nice to be home for a few months. I'm twenty years old tomorrow and I'm really excited :D I'm planning on hanging out with the fam and some friends eating pizza (one or two slices I swear!) and watching movies.

I came to SparkPower because I needed someone(s) who could help me stick to this program. It's not that I don't want to do it, I just forget or have other things I'd rather be doing...like eating pizza and watching movies XD I'm quite a social person so maybe getting to know you all will help with my motivation to put down that extra can of mtn dew or serving of mac and cheese and keep track of what I put in my body.

My biggest goal is to be proud of myself. I have an image in my head of what I look like and I want the outside to match that image.

I really look forward to getting to know you! Thank you, in advance, for helping me :)

SparkPoints: (25,406)
Fitness Minutes: (8,700)
Posts: 9,219
5/27/10 11:50 A

Welcome to the team Nikki! We are glad you joined us here. Join in on the other threads this will be a good way to get to know all of us.

Marilyn

Pounds lost: 20.0

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Posts: 1
5/27/10 9:28 A

Hello, im Nikki, im 18, years old...going to be 19 in a few months. i chose spark power because i could use an extra push...i like the motivation that i get from this group :) i love animals, i have 2 dogs, a chiuhauha, aptly named wawa, and a mutt mixed(oddly) of 2 purebreeds of spaniel (new breed maybe? lol) lincoln...when people ask us what he is, we just say that he's a lincoln, i have a bird named Guess who barks and growls like a dog, and an albino rabbit named babs, who i hand raised she's my baby I live in a family of 4, with 2 guys and 2 girls, i get along with my brothers, although i love my brother from another mother, my biological brother will always be special to me. i like drawing and painting, and anything to do with art. im a very determined person, and i do my best at all i do !

SparkPoints: (25,406)
Fitness Minutes: (8,700)
Posts: 9,219
5/26/10 10:34 P

HI Karriane,

Welcome to the team. Come join us as well on the other threads. I will be starting a new challenge hopefully by the weekend so we can get started on it on JUNE 1st.

See you on the other threads.

Marilyn

Edited by: MRSWIGGLY6 at: 5/26/2010 (22:34)

Pounds lost: 20.0

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Posts: 14,459
5/26/10 3:50 P

welcome!

current weight: 121.6

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Posts: 121
5/25/10 6:47 P

Hi I'm Karianne! I'm 21 and ready to start (once again) this life long change. I love animals I have three dogs (black lab, german sheppard and a Cavalier shih tzu mix) and a cat. They are my world. I live at home with my mom and step dad. I was born with a physical condition calld Rickets so my body doesn't absorb vitamin D at all. I also was born into a family of bipolar people which I too have. I have learned to live with my conditions and I accept me for me. My friends are the best. I love my family #1. My brother is my biggest hero. He is in Afghan right now in the Marines until Dec. I can't wait to see him and hopefully look like a new person!

current weight: 245.0

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Posts: 14,459
5/24/10 11:15 P

thank you Maggie

current weight: 121.6

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SparkPoints: (60,896)
Fitness Minutes: (50,386)
Posts: 3,598
5/24/10 11:04 P

and welcome back to the SP Family and to this great team. You will find that it is like you never left in the first place. The people here are still just as nice and love to give support and help. I want to wish you much success on your weight loss journey. Have a great week and stay strong and keep on Sparking.

Maggie j.

current weight: 190.0

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140

Posts: 14,459
5/24/10 8:47 P

Hello, I'm a homeschooling mother of 4 and married for 16.5 yrs. Our boys are 2 and 12 and our girls are 4 (although 5 next month) and 14 (almost 15)

I found spark when a friend on a mommy board I'm a part of mentioned it to everyone. Shortly after I joined SP, I found Spark Power - I was so excited to find this team. This team had the best challenges and the most amazing support and motivation.
I reached my ultimate weight goal of 108 pounds (even went under it which was considered underweight so I had to gain some to be in healthy range) from being on all the wonderful Spark Power challenges. o me, the challenges weren't challenges with the team - but instead, they were inner challenges with myself - I wanted to win each and every one of them (with myself) and make sure I did every part of the challenge... hence how I was able to loose the weight. I even was asked to become one of the leaders of the team and said yes - I was a leader for (oh no idea how long) and loved it but I ended up stepping down as being a homeschool mom of 4 took up most of my time and I felt like I wasn't being the leader this team deserved.

I maintained for over a year and was so proud of myself - until December - I stopped tracking my foods (yes I tracked every day even that year that I was maintaining) and I stopped working out (excuses - looking back - none that should have made me totally stop working out) And I even stopped coming to Sparkpeople... and what did all that get me? A weight gain of 12 pounds!!

I am BACK!! Spark Power, here I come!!! It is time to loose these 12 pounds and keep them away!!!

Edited by: CORINA-MOMOF4 at: 5/24/2010 (20:47)

current weight: 121.6

139 133.5 128 122.5

117

SparkPoints: (52,423)
Fitness Minutes: (25,427)
Posts: 13,310
5/24/10 8:27 P

Hi I'm Angela

I've been married, for 24 years to love of my life. We have three children. Two boys and a girl. They are adults. Two years ago we moved away from our home state. My kids decided they wanted to stay in their home town where they grew up. . It is a very hard adjustment.

Why I joined this team? I like what its stands for. If you need that extra push, motivation, want more challenges, or even new at spark. That is what we are about. We are here to help! The power of friendship!

I am a new co leader of this team. And I am very excited. Lets encourage each other.

Pounds lost: 88.0

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SparkPoints: (25,406)
Fitness Minutes: (8,700)
Posts: 9,219
5/24/10 5:04 P

Welcome to Spark Power team. Tell us about yourself and what brought you to Spark Power. Tell us about your goals. If your new to Spark People let us know so some of might be able to help you get started.

Marilyn- Team Leader

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