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4/26/12 10:06 P

Good evening everyone! It's great to see everyone moving and and sticking to their plan! I have logged over 35 miles on my bike so far this week. I'm feeling pretty darn good! I'm not feeling hungry or craving anything.....YAY Medifast!
Have a great evening!

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4/26/12 8:54 P

Just finished a 45 minute walk/run. I'm doing the couch to 5k program. 3 weeks ago I don't think I could have run a block, and now I can run 3 minutes in a row. I know it doesn't sound like much, but for me it's huge. The best part about it is that it's only 1/2 an hour. It's hard to make excuses when it's only half an hour. Sometimes, though, I end up stretching out my cool down because it's just so nice to be outside. Tonight was one of those nights, and I got an extra mile in. I use an app on my iphone that tells me when to walk and when to run, and I listen to music. I highly recommend it!

Hope to be able to live up to Mickie, fellow teacher an' all. No pressure though, Mickie! :)

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4/25/12 11:06 P

Welcome Peri!! You are doing great. Wow and with 4 little ones!! 4# off, Yeaaaa.

Barb 1.5 is awesome. You are going in the right direction!

Beth that is something to be proud of. Only 10 % of people who try to quit end up being successful, I read some statistics from the CDC about it. It is a surreal working with patients who have end stage Congestive Heart Failure. Their Quality of Life is terrible for the most part and most of them could have prevented it by making healthier choices when they were younger. It is one of the reasons I want to be healthy now. I have 2 children with Muscular Dystrophy who depend on me. I cannot afford to be in poor health. I would like to check out the books. Thanks for posting about it.

Mickie hang in there!!! You can do it!! When is your run? Maybe that is why you are craving more carbs. If you have been working out more, you may need the extra calories. I am so used to food being the answer I know where you are coming from. It is the 1st thing I think of doing when me and my husband get into an argument, to celebrate, in sadness, stress. I have to talk myself out of it all the time. I know you can do it. Be strong girlfriend!!

Belinda keep up the bike riding, it sounds so fun. Wish we had a place here in town to do that.

You guys are fabulous. Proud to be part of this team!!

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4/25/12 9:01 P

Yes, it IS a great group! Already excited to be a part of it.

I'm a Wednesday weigher, so I just stepped on the scale. 179.0, which is 4 pounds down for the week and 17.5 pounds total after 4 weeks. *Clicks heels*

It's going to be hard to find time to work out tonight, because I have grading to do, a daughter to pick up from martial arts, and then four kids to put to bed. But I think I have to be motivated enough to go down to the basement after lights out for the kiddos. I hate to work out at 10 p.m. because afterwards I'm all hyped up and can't sleep, but I have this chart/calendar I made and put up on my wall. Everyday but one (rest day) for the last two weeks has a green x through it, meaning I worked out at least half an hour that day. Don't want to spoil my streak!

Looking forward to hearing weigh-in news from y'all--good luck dust!

~Peri

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4/25/12 10:51 A

Welcome Peri and Christy - it IS a great group, isn't it?

Belinda! You're back! So proud of you
Mickie - 4 weeks? My, how time flies! You can do it - you already have! Years ago I was telling a friend how scared I was that I couldn't make it as a single mom and he said "what are you talking about? You ARE making it! ;-)
Barb - 1 1/2 lbs - that's great! I know we always want more, but like you said - any loss is good.

As for me - the light bulb went off last night. I was reading Dr. A's Habits of Health and it talks about making the functional decision to be a healthy person. It took me back to the day 6 years ago I decided to quit smoking. I didn't want to quit, loved it, still enjoy the smell of a cigarette (I had smoked since 13 and NEVER tried to quit). But my boyfriend told me he's traveling after retirement and wouldn't drag me around with my oxygen tank (and I knew he meant it)! So I quit because I needed to quit. Anyway...walking through the grocery store parking lot to buy nicotine patches and a carton of cigs for my last memorial day weekend hurrah - I decided I was going to be a non smoker. My first attempt was successful and I haven't smoked since. So....I have decided to make the functional decision of being a healthy, active person. These books really do help! lol

Anyway all is good and I'll check back this evening or tomorrow and report on my weigh in on Monday. Thanks all - for being y'all!

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4/25/12 12:02 A

Hi everyone...I hope it's ok if I join in. I'm not doing Medifast but something very similar--a doctor-supervised VLCD called New Direction. It's 3 shakes a day (no L&G), but it sounds like the same principle--low carb, low cal, ketosis, and if you work the program it works for you.

Tomorrow will be my official weigh in for Week 4. I started out at 196.5 (I'm 5'3") and so far am down to 183--almost 14 pounds in 3 weeks Can't complain about that. I actually have hope for the first time that I can actually lose these 70 pounds.

This seems like a great little community. I've read all the posts on this thread and am so impressed by all of you--especially when you need to get back on the horse. I think I'm lucky that my plan doesn't contain "real" food or else those almonds would be history around here!

Hope to keep seeing (and contributing to) all this success!


~Peri

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4/24/12 10:49 P

Mickie - you are doing great if it's just almonds. Those fries sure call my name every once in a while! You're almost done with the school year and you have so much to celebrate this summer. I know you can do this!

Belinda - sounds like a great day. Buying a bike is on my reward list. I love biking and my last bike finally saw its last day. :(

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4/24/12 10:23 P

Mickie!
Hang in there, you are doing

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4/24/12 10:09 P

Barb!

Tough week here. Finding myself stress-eating on almonds in the afternoon; doing OK otherwise. I told dh if I made it through this week (and maybe next week, now that I looked at my calendar) without diving head-first into a plate of french fries, it would be a miracle.

I can do this.

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4/24/12 8:45 P

Barb!
I had an excellant day! Kept my sweet Jake until 6, we played outside most of the afternoon! He has discovered running, he's not fast but he can sure run longer than I can.....LOL! I rode my bike after he went home, 8.8 miles. Stayed on plan and feel great! Have a great evening.

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4/24/12 11:10 A

Official weekly weigh-in - down 1 and 1/2 pounds. I was worried it would only be 1/2 a pound. I like to see 3 each week, but I'll take any loss!

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4/23/12 8:24 P

Hi everyone!
It's been a super busy day and this is the first moment I've had to sit down at the computer.
All you guys running your 5k's and such, ROCK! I don't think I could run to the mailbox! LOL...
It was chilly and windy today so I didn't ride the bike, but I rode 8 miles yesterday. It's supposed to get down to 35 degrees tonight! WOW! What happened to spring! Feeling crazy hungry tonight for some reason so I'm trying to keep busy. I may just go to bed early too.....Hope everyone had a good day!

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4/23/12 10:33 A

Dawn - I totaly get the scared thing! I still have at least 8 months (my best guess) until I'm at goal weight and I tossed and turned all night worrying about maintainence. My mind was wrestling with the thought of giving up comfort eating and all the yummy treats that come with social eating. I'm not sure I want to give those up forever. I know I can have an occasional treat once I reach my goal weight, but if I'm going to live this way it means having one treat - not ten!

My latest stress is that the scale isn't budging much this week. My weigh-in day is tomorrow and I'm guessing I'll have lost all of 1/2 a pound. I know that slow weeks happen, even if I'm doing everything right. But, it's still frustrating. I'm trying to have a positive attitude and hoping that next week is better.

Happy Monday to Everyone!
Barb

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4/22/12 8:09 P

Thanks Barb for the encouragement!! I think it is a little bordem and a lot of fear of finally reaching my goal. I am scared to death!! I am closer than I have been in a long time to my ideal weight. It feels safe with my old comfort food and comfy frumpy clothes. I can HIDE safely behind those. It is good to know that you all are here!!

It was a busy week last week. Volunteered at Victory Junction on Wed. I was exhausted after 5 hrs of pulling weeds 3 feet tall with roots about as long. Every muscle in my body was sore the next day. On Thurs I had to drive in the office which is 45min each way needless to say not much time for left Sparkin. Getting ready to run a 5 K on 27th, I am exciting.

Barb, I hope your week is smooth and thanks again for the reply last week I read it, but didn't have time to respond. It is nice to know I am not the only one. You are doing so well!! Pretty soon you'll be below 200, awesome!!

Belinda...Keep up the momentum. Yeaaaa. The bike ride sounds fun. Hope you enjoy your family today!!

WELCOME, Christy.

Beth hang in there, you can do it!!

Hope we all have a GREAT week!!

Wow Micki....has it been 4wks already...on maintenance!! You rock!! Hope the 5K goes smoothly. Keep up the great work !!
Dawn


Edited by: QUEENIEDMI at: 4/22/2012 (20:12)

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4/22/12 11:53 A

Hi Christy. Welcome to our group! I really love all the support everyone gives on here. I've lost 40 pounds total and 30 since starting Medifast 11 weeks ago. I've got another 63 to lose. So, we'll be in this together!

Mickie, congrats on getting to week 4 of maintenance and staying right where you need to be. You're amazing! I hope this crazy, busy week goes well for you and that all is well in your life.

Belinda, so glad you're starting to get back in the swing of things. Thanks for sending Christy our way.

I've got a super busy week ahead of me as well. I'm working on a fairly large opportunity for work and will probably be leaving town to go to Atlanta for a day or so. I also just took on some freelance writing and am trying to add that into my already crazy schedule. So, if I don't check in as often, know that I'm still thinking about y'all.

Have a wonderful week!

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4/22/12 11:52 A

Good morning!
Mickie, you are doing awesome!
Yay Christy!
Yesterday was a good day, the hubby and I took our bikes out to the trail and rode 6 miles in about 35 minutes. It's a start, and much more fun than the gym. I will be going to the gym today though because it's windy and a little chilly. The kids and gbabies are coming for dinner and I need to grocery shop too, so I'd better get moving! Y'all have a great day!

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4/22/12 11:25 A

Hi all!

Welcome, Christy!

So glad to read of everyone's efforts to stay the course. It is not always easy, but it IS always worth it!

My week went well. The scale bounces around 2-3 pounds over the course of the week, but I stay in my desired range. I've now done 4 weeks at goal.

I forget who asked for me to eat some yogurt for them? The Dannon Oikos Fat Free Greek is actually approved by NS for a lean, according to what I've read on the Facebook page. I couldn't tell you how much....Now, I wouldn't have wanted yogurt as my lean when I was doing 5&1; I wanted MEAT and something to chew, LOL. But if it would work for you, it's worth looking into.

I finished training for next week's 5K last night. I think I'm ready!

Hope everyone is having a good weekend. I have a doozy of a week staring me in the face, but one day at a time....

Later!

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4/21/12 12:25 P

Hello everyone :)

I was encouraged to join this thread for some great encouragement. And I see ya'll are wonderful in here. Thanks Belinda for the suggestion. *hugs*

Last year when I started, March 8th, I had 215lbs to lose. I lost 52lbs through the middle of June. Then had to go off for a while. But I found the ability to restart this month and am into Day 2. Feeling good and staying OP so far. I did gain back 9 of those lbs I lost but know those will be gone in the next day since I've already lost 2. So now I have 172lbs to lose and am eager to get refocused.

I do want to become a Health Coach too.

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4/21/12 11:22 A

Good morning all!
Thanks Beth and Barb! I'm starting to feel the enthusiasum I had in the beginning! Yesterday was pretty busy and I was away from the house most of the day. I didn't get on the computer at all! Unusual for me, so I'm logging yesterdays stuff today.
Come on Beth, you can do this too!
Hope everyone has a great weekend!

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4/19/12 7:59 P

Belinda - I'm so proud of you!!! See how strong you are? Okay - I'm going to give it tomorrow a 100% shot! If you can do it, I can do it!!!

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4/19/12 4:10 P

Woo hoo to 4 days OP for Belinda! The first 4 days are the worst. And, I know it just keeps getting easier after that. So proud of you!!!

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4/19/12 1:56 P

Today is day 4 100% OP. So far so good, did an exercise class at the gym yesterday and I think it's a little advanced for me. One of the trainers at the gym gave me a simple plan to use the next 6 weeks and then I'll try a class again. I have a little bit of a headache today, but otherwise feel pretty good. Have a day everyone!

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4/18/12 10:20 P

Belinda, sounds like you have a good plan to get back on track. I don't think there is anything wrong with taking a little leave of absense and then starting up again on MF. Now that you are starting up again remember how hard it was that first time you went on MF and you were transitioning into Ketosis. The first few days can be rough. Power through them. You'll start feeling better soon and that weight will start rolling off again. You can do it!

I found the same brand of scale that I've been using... it's a newer model and a little pricier than I recall ($50 on amazon), but mine is like 8 years old. It still works great for weight and water %. I can't make heads or tails of the fat %, so like I said, I just ignore that measurement. One thing I never realized until I had this scale is just how much water I retain when I have too much sodium the day before or it is that time of month!
http://www.amazon.com/Tanita-BF679W-Scale-Monitor-Water/dp/B0009V1YPK

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4/18/12 9:56 P

Thanks Beth, Barb and Sandra. I appreciate everyones input. I started MF on May 26, 2011, by 12/15 I was down exactly 60 lbs. I got off track during the holidays but figured if I could just maintain, I would get serious again in Jan. I have not been able to get totally back on track since! It seemed like the harder I tried the worse I did. Mid Feb. I decided to take a complete break, quit thinking about dieting and my plan was to come back to it April 1. I have floundered ever since and regained some weight too. I went back to alot of my old habits. I know how well MF works, I have never lost more than 15 lbs on ANY other diet so I know this is what I am going to do to get the rest off. Believe me, I AM going to get the rest off! I realize now that I'm going to have to go back to the beginning, I'm reading all my public and private journal entries and I'm going to work this like it's the beginning.....I'm tracking my food (weighing my L & G again) and committing to working out at least 3 days a week. I might just check out that scale too, Sandra.

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4/18/12 4:12 P

Sandra, thanks for sharing. A scale that measures water percentage would be so helpful! I can't stand the ups and downs and I always think it's water ... but I'm never quite sure. My scale measures body fat, but I've also found that it isn't accurate. Unfortunately, it doesn't give me a water reading. Thanks for the tip!

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4/18/12 3:22 P

Belinda, how long have you be Medifasting? You have lost soooo much so far, you should be proud!

I found that I would lose my resolve if I did not see results on the scale after a week of strong discipline. Then I bought a scale that measured water and body fat content. I ignore the body fat measurement because it's too unpredictable, but the water content is VERY accurate. If I gain weight from one day to the next, I can see it precisely in my water % (normally my water % is 47%, but if it goes up to 48%, that translates to 1.5 lbs on the scale for me).

Once I was able to normalize for water weight fluctuations, I could see the REAL results and found my motivation again. The scale was about $30 at Bed Bath and Beyond.

Edited by: BIGLOSER4 at: 4/18/2012 (21:47)

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4/18/12 1:44 P

Hi Ladies,
Mickie - I'm so glad your tummy problems evened out. I'm sure that your system is going to go through a bit of a shock. And, it looks like Sandra confirmed that some weight gain is normal because of the loss of water, glycogen, etc. But, it's so fabulous that you're weight is stabilizing and that you're doing well as you come off the plan.Gives me hope!

Belinda - Hang in there. Don't be hard on yourself. You've come so far! Maybe you need to find something a little less strict that will help you lose but won't feel as restrictive. What about 2 L&Gs a day and the rest Medifast foods or something like that? I know there are some modified Medifast plans. I always have a difficult time when I get to a certain weight (which is about 10 more pounds from where I am now). I tend to feel like I've accomplished so much and I get tired of working so hard. You might just be hitting that place and need to take a little break until you're ready to tackle it again. If you eat healthy and focus on maintenance, then I'm guessing that eventually you will get to the place where you're ready to lose again.

Things are going well on my end. It's been an extremely stressful week and a half. My baby had an allergic reaction to something (meds we think) last week and ended up in ER. Then, my oldest, got into trouble for being dishonest and acted out by hurting herself. She's super dramatic and is using things like cutting to get attention. It's frustrating and scary and emotionaly draining. But, we were able to find a great therapist, who has done amazing things with teens, to help her out. I'm just hoping he can help her better manage her stress and anxiety. Of course, with all this stress I got really sick. But - here's the good news - I was able to stay on my plan and I lost almost 3 pounds. (I seem to always lose between 2 and 3... with a few 1 pound losses and one really great 5 pound loss.)

I'm really proud of myself that the emotional stress didn't send me to food. It gives me confidence that I'm learning to handle stress in a more appropriate way and that hopefully I can tackle my food issues once and for all.

Hope you are all well. Thanks so much for posting! You all inspire me and have really been a help in this process.

Edited by: BARBAJMATTHEWS at: 4/18/2012 (13:47)

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4/18/12 12:45 P

Belinda - I continue to struggle too, so I don't know that I have so much advice for you as I have support. My goodness - look at how far you've come! You've lost 50 lbs! That is remarkable! When I find myself off track it's usually because I'm not taking the time I need for myself. As I said in my post last night - I do well when I come on here and post and track my food and take the time to take my vitamins, etc. So do you need to slow down? I know you just went on a little trip. Just be kind to yourself and support yourself the way you have supported me over the last several months to a year (wow, has it been that long?) and know that we are here for you! You give to alot of those around you and you should give to yourself too. Now - how's that pool coming? Did you say you had signed up for a couple of classes at the gym? Hang in there - I'm hanging with you :-)

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4/18/12 10:10 A

I'm still struggling to get back into the routine I had going. I do well for a few days and then just blow it! I'm mad at myself and terribly frustrated.....My goal date has come and gone and I"m not pleased with where I'm at right now!!!!!! Any advice much appreciated!

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4/17/12 11:08 P

Wow - lots of posts in the last couple of days. You guys are doing so well and I really need to check in every day, even if I don't have much to report. Logging my meals and taking my vitamins and reading your posts is what I need to be consistent with - all is okay - a little up, a little down, nothing too bad or too great.

Has anyone heard of New Lifestyle Diet products? They seem very similar to MF and are a little less expensive. I ordered a sample and seems okay. Just wondering if anyone has heard of it.

Well, we got some rain. We got 3" at our place, but the small town across the bay from us got 15" and a tornado touched down. Nothing at all compared to the horrible tornadoes in Oklahoma and other middle states, but alot of flood damage. I feel so sorry for farmers!

Mickie - eat some yogurt for me!

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4/17/12 5:24 P

Sandra - Glad you checked in! Happy to hear maintenance is going well for you.

Whatever was blowing up my insides last week has subsided. Weight has shifted back down and I'm feeling "skinny" again.

I'm really enjoying my yogurt this week. :)

Hope everyone is doing well!

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4/17/12 10:00 A

Hi everyone. Just checking in. I did Medifast from Dec - Jan and lost 25 lbs. I have kept the weight off since then. Although I must warn the group that, much of the week 1 major weight loss is water weight and the depletion of glycogen from the muscles. About 3 lbs for me. When I transitioned back on... that weight came back. I still managed to stabilize and lose even a few more pounds after transitioning off MF, so all is good!

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4/16/12 12:13 P

Hi everyone!
Took a little weekend trip on the Harley, the weather is soooo nice now! I'm having a hard time sticking to my MF, can't quite figure out why.....I do think I'm having some hormone issues, probably peri-menopause. Have a Dr. apt later in the week. Anyway, starting an exercise class at the gym tomorrow Tues. and Thur. @ 6:30 am! Hoping for a psychological boost by starting the day off right!
Hope everyone has a mellow monday!

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4/15/12 6:06 P

Hi all,

Hope everyone is doing well.

I'm having an "allergy day." We were outside most of yesterday for a yard sale, and I'm afraid it got me. Took a zyrtec this morning and now living off benadryl.

My first week to drop a Medifast meal and add something I haven't had in a long time was...interesting.

I bloated this week unlike anything I've seen in a long time. Maybe once while I was on the 5 & 1. "System Mickie" screeched to a grinding halt. I felt fat and icky for several days. It was ovulation time, and it's not uncommon for me to "slow" a bit during that, but it was way more pronounced than usual. I don't know if it was my body adjusting to the sugars in the fruit or what. It seems to have resolved itself over the last couple of days.

My weight adjusted up a bit this week. I'm not panicking; I'm still at my goal weight, under my "scream weight," and the Medifast materials say to expect that as you add calories and more carbs. It'll bounce around a bit, and that's OK as long as I stay in my chosen range.

There was a lot of mental wrangling with all the physical things going on. Old thoughts like, "See, I told you! You're not going to be able to maintain this loss." But I'm showing the negative thoughts the door and practicing the habits I've developed over the last months.

Today I replaced a meal with yogurt and fruit. I chose some nonfat, plain Greek yogurt. I added a few drops of liquid vanilla stevia. I've always liked flavored, sugared yogurts, but I had suspected the plain would be fine now that I haven't had much sugar since starting the plan. And I was right. It tasted just fine to me.

The huge positive of the whole process so far is there are still no cravings. I've struggled with hunger this week - also likely tied to my cycle - but not struggling with cravings. I will continue to do whatever it takes to keep those at bay.

Barb - I completely relate to your fear of getting to goal. I went through that. And I still have a fear of losing my intensity and focus, now that I'm here. I don't want to get sloppy and then watch the scale creep begin.

Everybody check in and let us know how you're doing!

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4/14/12 8:58 A

Dawn,
You aren't a bad example at all! This is a life change and I completely believe in the 80/20 rule. I've started allowing myself some off plan things. No desserts or candy or pasta ... but I allowed myself to have a few (maybe 7) tortilla chips yesterday with salsa. I just made sure that I had protein with them and that my overall carbs stayed under 100 grams and that my calories were within the range for the Medifast plan.

I knew that I'd be able to be completely strict on Medifast for a couple of months, but then I'd get bored. I've tried to lose weight enough in my life to know that about myself. I actually don't have problems eating too much right now. My problem is that I get bored and just choose not to eat at all. That happened a few weeks ago and my weight loss slowed and almost stopped. So, I had to find a way to not be bored and still stick with the program.

I'm still eating every 2 to 3 hours and I've just replaced a few of the Medifast meals with a few things that keep me within Medifast guidelines. For example, I'll have a Fage yogurt with fruit. It's a little higher in carbs than most of the Medifast meals, but if I have something that is higher in protein than the Medifast meals (like low fat cheese sticks) for my next Medifast snack, then it all works out. I still have my L&G each day and I avoid junk food and most foods that aren't approved. Right now, this is working for me. I'm losing the same amount - if not more - than I was when I was only eating Medifast meals and a L&G.

This works 90% of the time, but because I've given myself a little leeway, I've had a few moments where I've decided to eat something that is not a healthy choice (like the chips last night). Of course, I'm not considering it a slip up because I used Nutrition Tracker to figure out how many I could have and still stay within the carb/fat/protein balance I needed to be to continue to lose weight. :) And, I didn't binge.

I'm still terrified of getting to goal weight (and luckily have a long ways to go), because I think my problem will come when I'm comfortable and feel like an unhealthy eating day won't mess things up. For example, last night we were out late trying to pull together birthday presents and gift bags and cake for my son's b-day party today. We hadn't eaten dinner, because I'd had a sick baby at home all day and then had to run right after school to volunteer at our school's fundraiser fair. The kids ate at the fair (burgers, pizza, etc. - stuff I couldn't have). It was late and all I wanted was to run through a fast food place. It was more about convenience and waiting too long to eat. I didn't give in and we came up with something quick to throw together at home that was completely L&G approved. But, when I've lost the weight, I don't know that I'll be able to be so strong. So, I'm really working on my mindset and trying to figure out where I'll be able to be lenient and where I won't so that I don't destroy all this hard work.

current weight: 214.8

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Posts: 160
4/12/12 9:34 P

Hi guys!! Glad to see everyone doing so well!!

Tracey...Glad you are feeling better!! You have to do what works best for you!! Proud of you for not quitting!!

Belinda Congrats on the wt loss!! 5# YEAAAA!!

Barb. OMG..... you are doing GREAT!! Hope you enjoy shopping for your smaller clothes!!

Beth Hang in there....just don't quit. What matters is what you do most of the time. 6# off



Well, now for my confession. I lost 3# on Saturday and then decided to eat whatever I wanted on Easter and the day after and have been busting my BUTT to get back to where I was last Saturday. I have to do that every now and then, though, it helps me stay motivated and just reinforces, for me, that what matters most is what I do 80% of the time. I can treat myself every now and then. Sorry if I am a BAD example.

Edited by: QUEENIEDMI at: 4/12/2012 (21:35)

current weight: 176.5

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SparkPoints: (3,116)
Fitness Minutes: (1,028)
Posts: 91
4/11/12 9:09 P

Belinda - I forgot to tell you that I'm in Texas. That's why the pool is open. :) And, congrats on 5 lbs.!!!

Beth - Glad things are going well for you. I'm also praying for more rain and more weight loss.

current weight: 214.8

242 216.5 191 165.5

140

SparkPoints: (3,116)
Fitness Minutes: (1,028)
Posts: 91
4/11/12 9:07 P

Tracy - I'm so sorry to hear about your WI and the problems you've had with the center. I hope your revised plan works perfectly for you!

Mickie - Yum! Cuties! I love those! What a perfect choice.

I'm doing good. Things have been super busy for me with work and kiddos. But, I'm hanging in there. My weight loss has been a bit sluggish again, but I ended up losing about 2.5 lbs last week. As long as I'm losing, I'm happy. My clothes are now hitting that "way too large" size and I'm probably going to have to give in and buy something new. I wish I could just wait, but since I'm visiting clients a lot I have to look professional.

I have decided that I need to start exercising again. I was exercising before I started MF and stopped because I didn't want to slow down the weight loss. I think it's time to do something light every day to get back in the habit.

Hope everyone is well. Talk to you later!

current weight: 214.8

242 216.5 191 165.5

140

SparkPoints: (16,086)
Fitness Minutes: (10,559)
Posts: 493
4/11/12 9:00 P

Hi All,

Doing pretty good today. Not following Medifast 100% but I am monitoring my carbs and incorporating some Medifast into my day and plan to order some of my favorites on-line. I love the bars for breakfast and they taste great with awesome nutritional value. I also like the drinks for an afternoon snack. That keeps me full until dinner. I feel great. Not hungry and not feeling deprived. I think the deprivation just sent me over the edge a bit.

Beth I was feeling those positive thoughts today. Thank you!

Mickey I am so happy for you! You stay strong too.

Edited by: TAB257 at: 4/11/2012 (21:03)

current weight: 198.0

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Posts: 2,599
4/10/12 9:52 P

Tracy - So sorry about your experience; I hope it gets resolved soon.

Beth - I chose Cuties! They were the best, sweetest, juiciest little things. :)

Having a good week. Busy, but it will be that way for the next month. We're doing state testing this week and next.

Talk to y'all later! Stay strong!

current weight: 160.8

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Posts: 700
4/9/12 10:52 P

Tracy, I am so sorry about your WI and your experience at the center. I've ordered my product online, so don't know anything about the centers and contracts. Maybe some of the others have some words of wisdom for you - some who have had more successes on the program. Were you following the plan exactly as it's supposed to be? How long have you been on it? I really am sorry and hope you'll try again.

Lost 6 lbs at my week 1 weigh in. Then - totally went crazy today! :-( I honestly don't know what is wrong with me! Yes, I do. Didn't eat enough yesterday and was overly hungry today. I am already back on plan and hopefully didn't do too much damage.

Congratulations Belinda! I'm so proud of you. We really CAN do this.

Mickie - what a great job! I can't wait to hear which fruit you choose!

We made reservations today to go to the Frio River the first weekend in August with our neighbors! For you non-Texans - that's a popular river that people flock to like crazy in the summer - very cold (hence the name Frio), spring fed river. So now we pray for continued rain so there's water in the river and pray for me to lose some more weight!

Everyone have a good week. Tracy - I'm sending positive thoughts your way!
Beth

SparkPoints: (16,086)
Fitness Minutes: (10,559)
Posts: 493
4/9/12 9:41 P

Hi Everyone,

It has been a busy week. Saturday WI was not so good. I didn't even lose a pound. I came to the conclusion that this is just not the right plan for me. The only problem is I went to a center. The person who signed me up answered my initial questions incorrectly so I entered into a contract with false information. I spoke to one of the managers and she agreed to cancel based on the sign-up errors. I got a call today from a different manager and she is now going to hold me to a contract and stated the other manager should not have agreeded to cancellation. It is sad that they won't do the right thing. I blocked the payments based on the verbal agreement hopefully that will be the end of it.

I am now moving forward and have learned alot about how carbs factor into the diet equation. I am definitely going to be mindful with my new eating plan.

Easter was wonderful. Got a bunch of yard work done and I enjoyed the exercise. Looking forward to a great week.

current weight: 198.0

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Posts: 2,599
4/7/12 11:00 A

Good Morning!

Tracy - Can't wait to hear about this week's weigh-in!

Belinda - on 5 pounds!

Our weather has turned absolutely beautiful. It's been like early summer - WAY too hot for March and April - but now it's back to spring and I love it!

The whole family went for a walk/run yesterday afternoon. It was so pretty outside.

I'm going to get out and work outside today, and then we're headed to Huntsville to do some grocery shopping. Dd and I also want to try a new recipe in the kitchen.

Hope everyone is having a good weekend!

Edited by: BAMATEACHER at: 4/7/2012 (11:01)

current weight: 160.8

197 185.25 173.5 161.75

150

SparkPoints: (16,086)
Fitness Minutes: (10,559)
Posts: 493
4/6/12 10:31 P

Hi Everyone,

I am so ready for the weekend :-). Sounds like everyone is getting ready for summer! A bit too cool here is VA. Talking temps in the low to mid thirties tonight. It has been colder this spring than it was all winter I do believe.

Congrats Mickie to accomplishing a week on maintenance.

Belinda down 5 lbs is wonderful!

Weigh in tomorrow. I hope everyone has an amazing weekend because we deserve it.

current weight: 198.0

213 195.75 178.5 161.25

144

SparkPoints: (58,737)
Fitness Minutes: (6,063)
Posts: 2,947
4/6/12 11:47 A

Good morning everyone!
Yay Beth,
Mickie, you so make me look forward to goal!
Barb, where are you that the city pools are already open? They won't open public pools here until school is out. Luckily I have my own, but we haven't uncovered it yet. We will by the end of the month though.
Don't have much planned for the weekend, Sunday dinner with the kids and gkids with an easter egg hunt in the back yard. LOL FUN!
Weighed today and am down 5 lbs! YAY!
Have a great weekend all!

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4/6/12 11:03 A

Good Morning!

I'm enjoying my slow morning. I have a hair appt this afternoon and I need to hit the gym at some time, but nothing else on tap. For the weekend I need to get to the grocery store, and I plan on working out in my garden boxes and flower beds; they're in bad shape.

Barb - Enjoy your time at the pool! I despise our city pool, but last summer we bought season passes to a "homegrown" water park about 20 minutes down the road from us. It was heavenly! Our summer is shaping up to be super-busy, but I think the season passes are still a good route to go for us. They pay for themselves on the 3rd visit; surely we can get there 3 times over the summer!

Beth - Sounds like you're doing great! I think viewing this as keeping your word to yourself is a wonderful way to go!

I've been at goal almost 2 weeks and have completed almost 1 week of transition. I enjoyed my extra serving of veggies this week, but it was hard to remember to pack it and take it with me, LOL. This coming week I add some fruit, and I cannot wait! Trying to decide which fruit to pick first....

I'm also down about another 1.5 pounds. That's fine with me. The more cushion, the better! I'm still keeping my calories low (at a level SparkPeople and MyFitnessPal say I should still lose), but I'm anxious to see what happens when my carbs go over 100, like they're bound to do this week with fruit back on the menu.

Hope everyone has a good weekend!

Edited by: BAMATEACHER at: 4/6/2012 (11:04)

current weight: 160.8

197 185.25 173.5 161.75

150

Posts: 700
4/5/12 10:20 A

Just a quick check in to let y'all know I'm still with you. Today's my 4th day back on plan and it's going pretty good. Each day my calorie and carb counts have been fewer (I had some bananas I didn't want to throw out). It hasn't been completely perfect, but I haven't had candy or gone on a carb craze at all! And I'm learning from each of you and you are all doing so well. A thought process that helped me in the past and I'm turning to again is: I pride myself in keeping my word to others, so if I made a decision to stick to this plan and then stray, well, I've not kept my word to myself and I aboslutely must count in the people I keep my word with! Just a thought. I hope everyone has a restful, happy, on plan Easter weekend.

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4/4/12 10:17 P

Mickie - I forgot to tell you that I hope you have a fabulous Friday off. I'm taking the day off as well because my kiddos will be home. I think we're going to the pool - they've been begging all week because it opened last Sunday.

Anyways, I love hearing your teaching stories. I taught 3rd grade for a year (love it!) and then decided to get my masters. I always thought I'd end up back in the classroom, but have been in corporate training ever since. Maybe someday - I miss it a lot, especially when I spend time in the schools with my kiddos.

Enjoy the long weekend!
Barb

current weight: 214.8

242 216.5 191 165.5

140

SparkPoints: (3,116)
Fitness Minutes: (1,028)
Posts: 91
4/4/12 10:14 P

Hi Dawn! Sounds like a fun 5K plan. I want to start running, but need to take off another 10 to 20 before I do.

Tracy - I stopped by your blog. Way to go at getting right back on plan.

Belinda - I was laughing about your rushed trip out of town. I almost ran out of Medifast food this week, but my order came sooner than I thought. I was so relieved!

Hope the rest of the week goes well for everyone!
Barb

current weight: 214.8

242 216.5 191 165.5

140

Posts: 2,599
4/4/12 9:22 P

Belinda - One of the 2 "fall aparts" I had was Christmas Eve. I packed my food to take it to my brother's, and when we left there to travel home via a movie, I realized my food (which I was going to eat at the movie) was left on my brother's counter! I was so upset! And unfortunately, I took it out on food that night. Just pick back up and keep moving!

Dawn - I also make the pudding as a shake when I am home (take it as pudding when I take it to school for a meal). I have heard of some making the hot chocolate as a shake, but I've not tried that.

Tracy - Simple has been the way to go for me, too.

It's been another busy week. But tomorrow is a sort-of short day as we go see the play, and then we're out of school on Friday. Hair appt on Friday and work in the garden/yard planned for Saturday.

Later!

current weight: 160.8

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