Introductions HERE ONLY PLEASE!

What is your name or nickname? Donna

What do you like to do for fun? Play games on my talet and computer, read, knit

What diet are you following? Healthy heart

What is your favorite exercise? Walking

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? I seem to have lost my mojo and am desperate to find it again

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. It's been ages, but I was on the Starfish team

2 random fun facts about you? I like to make others laugh and I'm a bit on the crazy side

Anything else you would like to share? I'm a widow and mother of 5, though 1 is deceased. I have 10 GC and 2 GGS. I also havea 4 yr old Yorkie named Sassie, but she thinks she's a child due to the fact that I treat her as one.

What is your name or nickname? MiMi

What do you like to do for fun? playing with our doxies, video games with Hubby

What diet are you following? Keto

What is your favorite exercise? Combat

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season?
yes, lose weight, get heathy

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it . New
2 random fun facts about you?
1. Doxie family
2. I work at our church outreach
Anything else you would like to share? open book if want to know somethings about me don't hesitate to ask away

What is your name or nickname? Barb

What do you like to do for fun? Walking, sudoku, crocheting, coloring and going to craft shows

What diet are you following? Sparkpeople nutritional guidelines using foods with ingredient lists that look like a recipe I could make in my kitchen (avoiding processed foods). I am also trying to cut back on my sugar intake.

What is your favorite exercise? Walking

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season?
- Due to the majority of my 40 mile commute being under road construction, my boss has recently agreed to let me work at home a couple of days a week. I'm finding I need to restructure how I get my walking in on the days I am working at home. Who knew working in a huge office building was such a benefit to getting my walking in.
- Staying in calorie range has been an issue the last few months


If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it .Yes, I believe my first 5% Challenge was Spring 2017 on the Rowdy Rebels team. I have been participating ever since. Unfortunately, I haven't reached a full 5% loss but I keep trying.

2 random fun facts about you?
1. I have always wanted to go for a hot air balloon ride.
2. I grew up in the White Mountains of New Hampshire.
.
Anything else you would like to share? I will be on vacation Oct 4 - Oct 15 during this challenge. I have scheduled a 12 day guided tour to see 5 National Parks (Grand Canyon, Zion, Bryce, Yellowstone & Mt Rushmore) during this challenge. This tour is something I have always wanted to do


Edited by: BA_COY at: 10/20/2019 (18:00)

My name is Cyn.

For fun, I like to binge Netflix shows (finished NCIS not too long ago and am working my way through Royal Pains), listening to podcasts (just finishing TAZ Amnesty), and playing wiht my dog and three kitties

I'm not following a specific diet. I find that if I limit what I'm "allowed" to have, I'm more likely to give up or binge. Instead, I watch portions, put *everything* in my food diary, and stay within my daily SP calorie range. I'm trying to eat more fruits and veggies and less processed food.

My favorite exercises are walking and hiking, followed by dancing. Haven't done much of any of them lately, though! Three years ago I took a 10-day backpacking trip and I was in such good shape - looking forward to getting that energy back.

It may not really be fair to count this as a personal challenge, but my husband is also obese, and we never seem to be on the same page at the same time about getting healthy. Sometimes he's working on it and I'm not, and vice versa, but I think we tend to push each other off the wagon.

I've done a few 5% challenges and I love the support and team spirit, and even the competitiveness. I don't think I've necessarily reached my 5% goal, but THIS IS THE TIME!

Two random facts about me are that I'm learning to speak Spanish, and that I recently joined a community choir.

Edited by: CYNFIT4LIFE at: 10/5/2019 (16:28)

What is your name or nickname? Mitzi

What do you like to do for fun? Genealogy, WWII research

What diet are you following? Calorie restriction, eating healthy

What is your favorite exercise? Running but can't anymore due to osteoporosis.

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? Toning up

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. Summer and in between challenges... Lost weight both times but didn't reach 5% goal.

2 random fun facts about you? Left handed and Christian

Anything else you would like to share? Nothing comes to mind but just FYI, this is a lifestyle change. Temporary diets don't work.



Edited by: MITZISS at: 10/5/2019 (13:24)

Come and tell us a little about you!

What is your name or nickname?
Amelia. Everyone calls me Amy!

What do you like to do for fun?

I enjoy crocheting and hanging out with my family


What diet are you following? No plan yet. I've tried everything.

What is your favorite exercise?

Is that a trick question?

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season?

Just found out I am diabetic and need to get control over myself.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it.
First time.

2 random fun facts about you?
1. I love to be silly
2. Favorite colour is Red.
Anything else you would like to share? I'm looking forward to a new challenge!

Come and tell us a little about you!

What is your name or nickname? Jennifer

What do you like to do for fun? I enjoy going out - parks, concerts, socializing, exercising and drinking coffee.

What diet are you following? Counting calories + exercise

What is your favorite exercise? Strength training

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? Just getting back on track after having fallen off the wagon.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. I've taken part of a few before and am amazed with the enthusiasm, motivation and success each time.

2 random fun facts about you?
1. I dance awfully while listening to music and cooking at the same time
2. Moved to Denmark at the age of 24 - originally from Florida.

Anything else you would like to share? I'm looking forward to a new challenge!

Come and tell us a little about you!

What is your name or nickname? Emily.

What do you like to do for fun? I enjoy reading, working in my bullet journal, cooking, I'm beginning to learn to crochet and to play the guitar, though not at the same time!

What diet are you following? Low Carb/High Fat combined with some intermittent fasting.

What is your favorite exercise? I walk and do Pilates

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? I just had a knee replacement at the end of June so I'm getting used to not being in pain. I also have back issues that can make prolonged walking painful/

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. I've never done a 5% challenge, this will be my first one.

2 random fun facts about you?
1. I can do accents pretty well.
2. I love road trips.

Anything else you would like to share? I'm looking forward to a new challenge!

What is your name or nickname? Kelly

What do you like to do for fun?Mostly read and play games on my phone but I also enjoy a good walk.

What diet are you following?Just counting calories.

What is your favorite exercise?Elliptical for inside and walking for outside.

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? Work is also a challenge. Also we're trying to move.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. I've had a pretty good time with some of them, not so much with others.

2 random fun facts about you? I've lived in five different states (and no, no military affiliation, just moved around for a bit). I also own 800+ books (paper books!) and live in a 2 bedroom apartment.

Anything else you would like to share? Fall is my favorite season so hopefully that will help me to rock this challenge.

What is your name or nickname? cksmith385 or Carolyn

What do you like to do for fun? stay at our cabin in the mountains

What diet are you following? good nutrition and fitness, cutting down carbs, fats, sugar

What is your favorite exercise? anything core

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? we've been on the road a lot this year - unfortunately I wasn't able to closely follow good nutrition and exercise (partly through my bad decisions). But lack of time/energy also played a great part since I had to choose other priorities. A lot of family stuff.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. Weight Warriors - love this team

2 random fun facts about you? I love cats and Christmas

Anything else you would like to share?

Hi everyone!

What is your name or nickname? I don't have another one besides my username.

What do you like to do for fun? I play boardgames and dance.

What diet are you following? No diet but my program is fitness, portion control and living alcohol free.

What is your favorite exercise? Dancing of course. Also running and swimming.

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? My challenge is always the delicious and varied foods my partner makes. Also I love carbs like bread, pizza and scones a bit too much.

Anything else you would like to share? I just bought a kick scooter and am unpacking it now. It should be a fun fitness toy.

Come and tell us a little about you!

What is your name or nickname? I go by Meg or Megan.

What do you like to do for fun?

What diet are you following? I follow the Spark Calorie recommendations and try to stay at the lower end of the carb range.

What is your favorite exercise? I am a giant fan of Orangetheory Fitness. I've been going for almost a year now and go 4 times per week.

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? The shift from using the grill every night and eating watermelon for dessert to eating more things cooked on the stove or in the oven is always a challenging shift for me.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. I finished the Summer 5% challenge and made my 5% and I completely failed at the In Between Challenge. So I'm looking for the Fall 5% challenge to get me back on track.

2 random fun facts about you?
1. I'm apparently drawn to German dogs. As an adult I've had a Dachshund, a German Shepherd mix, and two German Shorthaired Pointers.
2. We live on the Schuylkill River in PA and love how the view changes every day.

Anything else you would like to share? I'm really making an effort to hit Onederland this challenge. I'm pretty close and think I can get to 199.8 by the end.

What is your name or nickname?
You can call me by my username, "Neo", or "Matt".

What do you like to do for fun?
Lately, sleeping. I also enjoy video games, reading, watching movies, strength training, practicing martial arts (at the moment, cuong nhu and boxing), drinking obscene amounts of water and coffee, and cooking / eating.

What diet are you following?
I'm trying to simply eat clean within an IIFYM system, with a limit of 2000kcal, but I can never seem to do it right.

What is your favorite exercise?
Bench press or Lat pulldown.

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season?
I know it's not the intent, but dealing with my depression is a personal challenge.
In terms of personal health challenge, I'd like to walk/ run 10 miles a week, and get to the point I can finish a 5k in less than 40 minutes (3.107 miles, so 4.66mph average).

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it.
I did, but I didn't understand the rules and got kicked out after three weeks or so.

2 random fun facts about you?
I really like strength training and enjoy training other people.
I just started wearing glasses on Saturday. It's amazing all the things that were blurry, but I never noticed!

Anything else you would like to share?
I'm dealing with the start of SAD. This fall and winter is going to very hard for me. If you don't see me keeping up, please send me a message. There are some days where even just getting to work feels hard, so it might be that I'm letting my depression get to me. Please, please, please help keep me accountable.

Edited by: NEOMATTLAC at: 9/30/2019 (14:52)

What is your name or nick name? Sam

What do you like to do for fun? Read, cross stitch and playing with my 2 Yorkie puppies.

What diet are you following? Sparkpeople diabetic.

What is your favorite exercise? Walking

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing this season? Diabetes

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. This is my first challenge.

2 random fun facts about you? Love ancient history and Civil War history.

Anything else you would like to share? Not at this time.

Edited by: KOALA1949 at: 9/30/2019 (04:52)

What is your name or nickname?
DebyDoingIt. Debbie

What do you like to do for fun?
I work, exercise, clean and cook. Fun would be hiking

What diet are you following?
Spark Diabetic plan leaning towards Mediterranean food choices


What is your favorite exercise?
Hiking

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season?
I am a diabetic. I am working on getting off as much medication as possible. I have reduce insulin from 80 units 2 shots to 1 shot 16 units. Kicking it's butt.

If you did a previous 5% This is my 1st one

2 random fun facts about you? I am artistic. I am mechanical. can fix most antything


Anything else you would like to share? I have 5 children, 3 are adopted. 13, 15, 17 26 and 40. 1 grand daughter age 7.

Come and tell us a little about you!

What is your name or nickname?
Jannisse

What do you like to do for fun? Read mysteries, hiking, hanging out with family.

What diet are you following? Less processed foods, 1200-1500 calories.


What is your favorite exercise?
Yoga, tennis

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season?
Yes stress related to elderly mother in law/dementia.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. Last year, a couple challenges, then biggest loser challenge. I prefer the 8 week format of the 5% challenges, so I’m back!

2 random fun facts about you? I study handwriting analysis and am interested in genealogy.

Anything else you would like to share? Nothing comes to mind....

My nickname ,Rae
I live in Fruitland Idaho, Mountain Time Zone.
I am single now. Have 4 grown kids, 15 grandchildren, and 1 great grand child.
INo pets.
I like to read, sparking, and I love to study the Bible.
My goal for now is to lose the 5% weight for this challenge . This is my first challenge so another goal is to figure out what I need to do
My eating plan is to have my plate at least 1/2 full of good for me vegetables. Salad at least for 12 meals a week with protien. And not to eat after 6 pm and not before 9am.
My favorite exercise for now is chair exercises. My breathing and back are both problems for me.
My favorite quote Is to NEVER EVER GIVE

What is your name or nickname? Fran
I live in Spokane WA which is west coast time zone
Tell us about your family.? Single a brother who lives in the Denver area

Do you own any pets? What kind of tricks do they do?
I have a fur baby (A dog) his name is Racey
He is my walking buddy we dance in the living room

What do you like to do for fun? Enjoy walking scrap-booking sparking
Gardening in the summer going to the gym

How do you spend your "Me" time?
Sparking going to the gym coloring

What is your goal for this challenge? To reach my goal of 135 pounds
I am at 142 now after some silly stress eating.
Are you new to the 5% Challenges NO

What eating plan are you following: Spark people 1,.000 to 1,300 a day

Are you in MAINTENANCE: no
What is your plan to reach this goal (healthy eating plan/
Plan meals eat it track it
Exercise move it don’t just talk about it


What is your favorite exercise? Walking with pal Racey
going to the gym dancing in the living with spark friends over the miles

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing this season? Getting my silly stress eating
Under control drink water when to silly eat

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it.
I have completed several challenges each one has helped keep me going on the journey. The support you get from teammates. Learning it’s a life style not a diet a diet has a end date healthy eating is for always.
Its okay to have a slip on the journey just don’t give up and the scales is not the only answer watch for the None scales wins and write them in your journal

What is your favorite exercise/workout:
walking and boot camp at the gym just moving around the house and not sitting to long

. Do you have a favorite quote or motivational picture you would like to share?
We ARE doing this. We're doing it right now. Today. Maybe imperfectly but we ARE doing it.
From a Spark friend Dawnsuccess


Are YOU ready to have some fun as you journey to a healthier lifestyle: yes time to get our bags packed



My before pictures are from my 50th
9/20/19 9/21 19



I am in the pink shirt in the middle



I am in the Rose colored dress
wt 142 i have gone from 200 pounds in Jan 2012 to 142 in Sept 2019

What name would you like to use?
Necdoo or Dinees

What do you like to do for fun?
Hike, Explore new places, Read, Crochet, Build with Legos, Entertain hubby

What diet are you following?
I have been following the Isagenix diet. It worked great for about 6 months. I lost 20 pounds and then I plateaued. Then I tried vegetarian. I gained some weight. I went back to eating chicken and fish. Now, I am going to eat 2 healthy meals and 2 snacks. My third meal will be a protein shake. So no real diet, just eating healthy.

What is your favorite exercise?
Walking or hiking or dancing

Are you dealing with any personal challenges at this time?
I am frustrated with not losing weight. I feel like nothing works. I have a very stressful job. I love my job but not the stress. Some days, I can work 10 or more hours.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it.
This is my third 5% challenge (Rowdy Rebel repeat) I don’t lose weight, but I don’t gain either. The challenges are fun. I enjoy the team spirit.

Tell us 2 random fun facts about you.
- I like all kinds of music. I’m not even sure if I have a favorite.
- My nickname: Necdoo. When I was a teen, My parents owned Nursing homes (Mom still does). We would have summer cookouts and the whole family would come and create a party for the residents. My uncle always called me Necee vice Dinees. The residents started saying Necee please do this or that and eventually it just went to “Oh Necdoo this or that” and it stuck. It was always hard work but lots of fun too. It was also a joke on the fact that I really like Scooby Doo and still do. They thought it was great. I even had a Tshirt would Scooby and my name Necdoo and the Nursing home name on the back.

Anything else you would like to share?
I have ADHD and focus is a big problem. I constantly start something and then move on to something else without completing the first item. When I meal prep, I have to really concentrate or I burn the food.

Go 5 % challenge!! :)

Come and tell us a little about you!

What is your name or nickname?
Allison

What do you like to do for fun?
Read, scrapbook/stamp, play with our dogs

What diet are you following?
healthy choices

What is your favorite exercise?
walking - it was jogging but no longer due to knee issues

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season?
consistency with eating and exercising

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it.
This is my first 5% challenge


2 random fun facts about you?
I love my job. I love touching peoples lives and helping them better themselves


Anything else you would like to share?consistency is my goal

Come and tell us a little about you!

What is your name or nickname?
Gayle

What do you like to do for fun?
Read, knit, bird watch, spend time with friends

What diet are you following?
Counting calories

What is your favorite exercise?
walking

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season?
build a stronger core

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it.
This is my fourth challenge. I like the interaction and tips from like minded people.


2 random fun facts about you?
I volunteer..a lot. I love animals and would adopt multiple if I could.


Anything else you would like to share? Can't think of anything else.

Come and tell us a little about you!

What is your name or nickname?
Paulla

What do you like to do for fun? Read, play with my husky pup, run/walk/hike.

What diet are you following? WFPB No Oil, Starch-based diet (UWL)

What is your favorite exercise? running

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? Stay away from processed food!

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. I have done several and enjoy them a lot.


2 random fun facts about you? I recently signed up for my first half-marathon. I have a new (9 weeks old) Siberian Husky puppy.She is the 3rd one I have had. The last one had a stroke in March. :(


Anything else you would like to share? Can't think of anything else.

What is your name or nickname?
Sunshine/Sunny

What do you like to do for fun?
Play Candy Crush Saga, Read,

What diet are you following?
Low-carb

What is your favorite exercise?
Yoga and walking

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season?
Yes, my left hip is giving me problems

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it.
Newbie

2 random fun facts about you?
I am one of those strange people that actually enjoys their job...working in a National Park.
My favorite animals are elephants and dogs


Anything else you would
I have 7 children and my youngest son is getting married next September in Maine.

What is your name or nick name? Cherie (pronounced "Sherry")

What do you like to do for fun? laugh - I'm a comedy fanatic

What diet are you following? Abs Diet for Women

What is your favorite exercise? Anything I can actually do right now!

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing this season? I have had limited mobility for the last 2 years. It took months for doctors to agree on a diagnosis, now to get them on the same page for a treatment plan!

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. I just looked at my Sparkteams and saw that I've been doing these since 2015! I'm not sure I've ever lost 5% of my weight, but I always learn something and read interesting posts and blogs.

2 random fun facts about you? We have 2 rescue dogs who think they are people. I prefer shopping for tires than shoes

Anything else you would like to share? CBD oil has REALLY helped me through this.

What is your name or nickname? Deborah

What do you like to do for fun? Pen and ink art, crochet & reading

What diet are you following? Eat to Live with some moderations

What is your favorite exercise? Walking

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? Had a major heart attack on July 4th with emergency stent placement and Triple heart bypass with grafts August 30th. Dr encouraging daily walks at moment with Heart rehab to start mid-October to increase strength and stamina.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. Have done several 5% challenges with various success. I have new motivation at this time to take full advantage of my chance to get it right this round.

2 random fun facts about you? I love gardening! And singing in the shower.

Anything else you would like to share? I love encouraging others and look forward to reconnecting with old friends and meeting new friends. Please stop by my page and say hello!!!!

What is your name or nick name? Laurie

What do you like to do for fun? Spend time with family and friends. Play tabletop and computer games. Traveling, trying new foods, reading. Scuba diving and downhill snow skiing. Maybe write a little on the side.

What diet are you following? Low Carb, heart-friendly, with support though Noom.

What is your favorite exercise? Almost anything cardio (except biking), yoga, plates, and pretty much any exercise class with a group. 🥰

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing this season? Weight loss and making healthier life choices. I am also down to my last two months before submitting my thesis for board certification. 😳 It's the culmination of 7 long years of work. Anxiety is not helping the healthy life choices goal. 😢

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. I'm a newbie!

2 random fun facts about you? I'm an Army vet (Iraq 2009) and 70% disabled. For the first time in my life I'm having to live with physical limitations and figure out what i.can and can't do. 🙄😒 The recovery road has been slow, but I'll never give up!! �

Anything else you would like to share? I truly value the ability of a group to provide amazing support. I have been blessed to be a part of many different groups during my journey, and I'm looking forward to seeing what wonderful accomplishments lie ahead for this group. �🥰

What is your name or nick name? Donna

What do you like to do for fun? Time with family/friends, hiking/walking, gardening, arts

What diet are you following? Low Carb diabetic-friendly

What is your favorite exercise? Weights, walking, yoga

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing this season? managing diabetes, weight loss

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. I'm a newbie!

2 random fun facts about you? Prior to my health issues, I rode my bicycle in a Century Ride (100 miles) with an all-male group - and managed to keep pace with them!

Anything else you would like to share? I'm looking forward to this challenge!

What is your name or nick name? Dale

What do you like to do for fun? Reading, flower gardening, being out in nature

What diet are you following? Sparkpeople

What is your favorite exercise? Stationary Bike, Yoga, walking

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing this season? Joint pain

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. I have done 2 and I did really well on it.

2 random fun facts about you? I am fascinated with Folklore. My favorite author is Charles de Lint.

Anything else you would like to share? Not at this time.

What is your name or nick name? Gracie

What do you like to do for fun? I love being outdoors - beach, mountains, forests, sand dunes, lakes...Avid reader and movie buff. Piano & guitar.

What diet are you following? Eating healthy foods (1200-1500 calorie), but thinking of intermittent fasting for 5% challenge.

What is your favorite exercise? Swimming.

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? Bone-on-bone hip.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. Spring & Summer with Awesome A's. Spring challenge I lost focus and did not meet 5% goal, but Summer challenge lost 5% weight.

2 random fun facts about you? On tracing ancestry I found maternal side of family came over on the Mayflower and Thomas Jefferson & Daniel Boone in family tree. I like to write essays & critque movies.

Anything else you would like to share? I love retirement and no longer feeling the time crunch of everyday living. Studying bible, prayer and traveling the King's Highway very important to me. Isaiah 35:8

What is your name or nick name? Jen

What do you like to do for fun? Photography, decorating cakes, reading and being with my family.

What diet are you following? 80/20

What is your favorite exercise? walking and running

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing this season? A 5k in November, and in general being a healthier me.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. Yes several of them. Last one was Summer 5% 2019 with the Awesome A's.

2 random fun facts about you? I dream of being a teacher and a builder.

Anything else you would like to share? No.

What is your name or nick name? Cammie

What do you like to do for fun? Kayak, knit, bake, watch scary movies

What diet are you following? Sparkpeople and double checking with Weight Watchers

What is your favorite exercise? Low impact cardio

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing this season? Working to lower cholesterol.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. This is my first.

2 random fun facts about you? I love to ride all kinds of roller coasters, and I love to read Outlander!

Anything else you would like to share? Not at this time.

What is your name or nickname? Halee

What do you like to do for fun? Cross-stitching, reading, baking, watching/reading anything about history and the paranormal

What diet are you following? Nothing special, just calorie counting

What is your favorite exercise? I love dancing!

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? I'm dealing with a few new health issues that I was diagnosed with over the summer. My biggest challenge is adjusting to my blood pressure medication.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. This is my first one!

2 random fun facts about you? I'm slowly turning my entire backyard into a vegetable garden. People often think that my sister and I are twins, but we have a large age gap.

Anything else you would like to share?

What is your name or nickname? Brenda

What do you like to do for fun? Hike, yoga, crochet, read, enjoy movies, watch hockey (let’s go Ducks!)

What diet are you following? Lower carbs, but mostly just making healthy choices every day

What is your favorite exercise? Walking (working on adding jogging also!), hiking, yoga

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? Taking care of my feet and shins (plantar fasciitis & shin splints) while continuing to train for a 12k in May

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. Never done this before, but excited to figure it all out and contribute to my team!

2 random fun facts about you? I was a hula dancer for 15 years. I get super nerdy about Disney, Harry Potter, Star Wars, and all things Marvel.

Edited by: BREN1198 at: 9/20/2019 (11:05)

What is your name or nickname? Fluffy

What do you like to do for fun? art

What diet are you following? keto/ low carb

What is your favorite exercise? WATP & Spark videos

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? still health - but cancer free

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. I have done this challenge several Xs, and really enjoy the plan of trips and all the work our admins & teams do

2 random fun facts about you? had 2 major and 3 minor surgeries in a year - on disability but feeling better to get in activity's again .... do different arts to keep busy

What is your name or nickname? Beverly, or Gramee

What do you like to do for fun? My hubby and I hike, cycle, and kayak. I also make quilts.

What diet are you following? A low carb diet provided by my doctor.

What is your favorite exercise? I would have to say hiking.

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? I'm recently diagnosed as pre-diabetic and am working on improving my diet.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. This will be my 4th 5% Challenge. I have not made my 5% in any of them, but hope this will be my lucky one. I have enjoyed the encouragement and friendships developed along the way.

2 random fun facts about you? Hubby and I are both only children, and I have a tiny tortoiseshell cat.

Come and tell us a little about you!

What is your name or nickname? Susie

What do you like to do for fun? I am hooked on Microsoft Solitaire Collection and love the Microsoft Jigsaw.

What diet are you following? I have never been able to follow a diet however, I do try to keep my macronutrients in alignment. Also eating a healthier selection of foods. I don't have any forbidden foods but I know my trigger foods and try to be hyper vigilant when I do eat them.

What is your favorite exercise? I love walking, whether it be on the treadmill or outside and even if I have to walk in place!

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? Yes, ever since my sister was here for a two week visit I have had trouble staying on track with my eating. If you can call that a challenge.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. N/A

2 random fun facts about you? I was in the Navy many moons ago. I actually became friends with my ex-husband until he passed on. I don't know if they are fun facts but there they are.

Anything else you would like to share? This is my first 5% challenge so am interested to see how it goes.

What is your name or nickname? Ann

What do you like to do for fun? Meet with friends.

What diet are you following? Just watching calories.

What is your favorite exercise? Dance dvds or Classical Stretch and walking

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? Exercise regularly

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. I’ve done many over the years.

2 random fun facts about you? Enjoy playing table games / computer games

Anything else you would like to share?

I enjoy sitting on my deck and feeding the squirrels, and reading during the fall.
I love my view from my deck and also feed the birds. It opens up to a common ground that is a wildlife playground.

What is your name or nickname?
Diane

What do you like to do for fun?
Time with friends: dinner, plays, game nights.
Going to the Beach, and travel.

What diet are you following?
I'm focusing on eating 1/2 plate of veggies at each meal.

What is your favorite exercise?
It has always been kickboxing, but I've not found a good place to go now that I am working out of town. So my typical "go to" exercise is walking.

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season?
Stress - work and home. Working to keep myself as a priority.

If you did a previous Challenge tell us about it.
I've participated in the 5% challenges almost since the time I joined Spark.
Every one has been a little different in terms of success for me. But they all give as much success as the work I've been willing to put into it. They are an excellent way to keep me focused and on track with a healthy lifestyle.

2 random fun facts about you?
I'm an only child, so is my daughter, so is my grandson.
I work with people from all over the world.

What is your name: Beth
What do you like to do for fun? Rescue bunnies, write
What diet am I following? healthy choices
My favorite exercise? walking out side and stretching
Personal challenge? Pain and herniated disks, fibromyalgia
2 Random fun facts: have 3 rabbits, lost 200 plus pounds so far no surgery or crazy diets

Edited by: ~INDYGIRL at: 9/19/2019 (14:01)

What is your name: Allison
What do you like to do for fun? reading historical fiction, walking dogs, scrapbooking/cardmaking
What diet am I following? healthy choices
My favorite exercise? walking out side on a beautiful day
Personal challenge? snacking too much,
2 Random fun facts: have 2 dogs that I love; trying to keep a work/fun balance in my life

Edited by: AH_QUIRK at: 9/19/2019 (11:11)

What is your name or nickname? Barbara or Barb

What do you like to do for fun? Read, play games on computer, paint

What diet are you following? Trying to reduce sugars and increase protein this time.

What is your favorite exercise? walking

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? Lack of support from Hubby. He likes to keep something sweet in the house all the time, and that is one of my weaknesses. I've talked to him about wanting to have better health, but it just doesn't seem to soak in with him.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. I've done several 5% Challenges, and I always enjoy them. I haven't met the 5% goal yet, but still try.

2 random fun facts about you? I'm a retired Kindergarten teacher and I love to travel. I have started going on bus tours, and I have seen a lot of interesting places and made a lot of new friends.

Anything else you would like to share? I'm looking forward to having a better challenge this time. Love all the support from other team members.

What is your name or nickname?
Tania

What do you like to do for fun? Read, watch movies/tv, hang out with friends and family


What diet are you following?
Trying whole foods and low carb

What is your favorite exercise?
Boxing

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season?
Lack of motivation?

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it.
This will be my first

2 random fun facts about you?
I am beginning to enjoy cooking
I make cool pinatas

Edited by: CHOCOHOLIC2276 at: 9/19/2019 (05:45)

What is your name or nickname?
Kathy

What do you like to do for fun?
Golf, swim, Quilt, bike ride


What diet are you following?
eating healthy, restrict calories, go easy on the carbs

What is your favorite exercise?
Is that a thing?

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season?
stress at work and making a commitment to putting myself at the top of the priority list

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it.
This will be my first!

2 random fun facts about you?
I live on an acreage with my hubby, three dogs, a cat and a variety of chickens ducks and Guinea fowl. I love to garden

What is your name or nickname?
Diane

What do you like to do for fun? Read, listen to music, play on my computer, watch TV and play Pokemon Go :)

What diet are you following?
I am trying to walk at least 20 minutes a day, limit soda and just stay within my calorie range.

What is your favorite exercise?
Treadmill, Elliptical and Jessica Smith workouts on YouTube

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season?
My knee bothers me sometimes due to an accident a while back, but otherwise, I'm fine.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it.
I think I have done about three of these before and I really enjoy them.

2 random fun facts about you?
I have two adorable new kittens and my boyfriend says I have a very infectious laugh.

What is your name or nickname?
Brenda (Bren)

What do you like to do for fun? Read,, feed the visiting kitties that drop by daily, computer games


What diet are you following?
Lower carb/calorie/sodium...tho I'm failing daily to keep sodium levels in check I use the tracker daily and love it! (1200-1500 calorie)

What is your favorite exercise?
Stability ball, free weights walking when my feet comply (chronic pain /arthritis)

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season?
Diabetes, heart disease, chronic pain : feet/hips

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it.
This will be my first!

2 random fun facts about you?
I live alone and love it....and love a good nap on my off days

What is your name or nickname? 
 Ani

What do you like to do for fun? 
 Reading, puzzles, and spending time with my family. 

What diet are you following? 
 I am currently doing an IF diet combined with Keto. 

What is your favorite exercise? 
 Walking and swimming.
Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? 
 I would like to work on portion control. 

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. 
 This will be my 3rd challenge.

2 random fun facts about you? 
 I love to knit and crochet for my friends.
I help my 86 yrs old mom get her walks every day.

Anything else you would like to share? 
I've been married for 43 yrs and have 3 sons and 4 grandchildren.

What is your name or nickname? Lynda or Miss Stella

What do you like to do for fun ? Walking is my main activity. I also like most kinds of music (except rap) and wear my headphones when I am walking.

What diet are you following? I have been following intermittent fasting for about two months now and it seems to fit into my lifestyle.

What is your favorite exercise? Walking

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? Due to my age my bones and joints don't seem to want to co-operate so the only good exercise for me seems to be walking.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. I haven't joined many teams because I was concerned about being able to keep up.

2 random fun facts about you? I have finally accepted the fact that I really am a "crazy cat lady" I have two very spoiled black fur cats named Maggie and Shadow and they really do rule the household. I also have three grand dogs that my cat kids have accepted on a limited basis.

Anything else you would like to share? I am not exactly computer literate but I will do my best to follow all of the challenges that are posted.

We're all here to help motivate and support our teams.

Thanks for doing all introductions on this thread so we can all follow each other here.

Take a moment and read the introductions thread and visit members' Spark pages and leave a message that you stopped by. Introduce yourself to prospective new teammates.

We will have the most successful Spark teams ever!



Edited by: MISS_STELLA1 at: 9/18/2019 (01:08)

What is your name or nickname? Tammy

What do you like to do for fun? Gardening, listening to all sorts of music, spending time with my husband.

What diet are you following? No specific diet. I just increased my protein & fiber intake, and started making sure that I didn't go too long between meals/eating regular small amounts.

What is your favorite exercise? Walking with my husband.

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? Was diagnosed with Stage 3 kidney disease last year. I am trying to make myself more healthy and hope to stave off the issues associated with the kidney issues.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. - my first

2 random fun facts about you? I love to garden and use fresh herbs and veggies I have grown. Cooking has always been like a hobby for me, and I study recipes. So when I started this journey a year ago, I had to change my course of study. I have found creative ways to still cook amazing tasting things that are also a lot better for us!

Anything else you would like to share? Thanks for the invite and am happy to join this challenge!!

What is your name or nickname? My name is Sheryl. This my ninth challenge with this group. I have lost weight and I have gained weight. I am determined to keep working at this until I lose without regaining.

What do you like to do for fun? I like to read and do crafts of some sort. When I am tired and don't want to think I play games on my computer.

What diet are you following? I am not following any specific diet. I drink plenty of water and try to eat healthy.

What is your favorite exercise? I like to swim but don't have many places to swim so I walk.

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? I need to get started with an exercise plan that I can stick long enough for it to become a habit. I get bored easy.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. I love doing these challenges as it keeps me accountable.

2 Random fun facts about you? Since I retired last October I drove cross country twice.
I went back to work part time to fund my love for travel.

Anything else you would like to share?

My name is: Rosalie

I love spending time with family, grandchildren and friends, old, new and virtual friends. i love gardening, traveling, camping, reading, enjoy fishing, golfing and just having fun with DH.

i joined Spark Dec26, 2017. My first goal was not to give up after 3 months, learn to eat healthy and of course exercise. i love strength training and my stationary bike. i do a variety of exercise to keep things interestng. My dear Spark friends have kept me going. i have lost inches, weight but medical issues have made the journey a bit longer then i had hoped. My motto is, dont give up and lets move forward! i also although not diabetic have worked to follow a low sugar, low carb diet so I understand the challenges my son faces. I love Spark and my morning coffee!.

What is your name or nickname? Kathy

What do you like to do for fun? Go for long drives with my husband, trying to learn how to play the guitar, relearning how to play the piano. Spending time on Sparkpeople

What diet are you following? I count calories - stay under 1800 a day, I've lost over 100 pounds doing this (I did lose 98 on low carb several years ago)

What is your favorite exercise? Walking, floor pedal exerciser, chair areobics

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? I just found out I have an enlarged spleen, don't get to see the hematologist about it till October 14th

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. Never have

2 random fun facts about you? I can repair antique clocks (My Daddy taught me). I don't do any but my own anymore but I can do it. Although I don't have any now, I owned horses most of my life, My most precious owned me for 19 years...his name was Wildkat, he was born in 78, I will always use his name anywhere I can.

Anything else you would like to share? been married over 16 years, very happy, no kids - never happened. I have 4 cats and live on a farm.

Happy to meet everyone!

What is your name or nick name? Alley

What do you like to do for fun?
I Love spending time with my DH and family, I'm working on genealogy right now. I also enjoy photography, word games, trivia, making greeting cards and beading, and going shopping at thrift stores/artisan shops.

What diet are you following?
I mainly follow a plant based and lean protein menu.

What is your favorite exercise? Not just one, but many. Circuit style and riding bicycle, and Kickboxing are my top three.

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing this season?
I'm struggling with getting the weight off in which I gained this past year while I was recovering from retina surgery for both eyes.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it.
My previous challenges seemed to help me get down almost 5%, and helped me stay on track for 8 weeks.

Two random fun facts about you? Watching bugs, birds, and wildlife. Spontaneity is always an adventure for me.

Anything else you would like to share?
In February while sulking about post surgery restrictions, I started a guided meditation app. Today is day 204! All restrictions have now been lifted, I'm thankful!

What is your name or nickname?
Melrie (rhymes with celery) Friends call me Mel

What do you like to do for fun?
Golf, Read books, Play Canasta, Dominoes, outdoor activities

What diet are you following?
Spark People 50,30,20, Percentage plate (carbs, fat, protein) Tracking daily

What is your favorite exercise?
Walking, Biking

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season?
Healthier in general, hoping to control arthritics

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it.
Several and they motivate me to do more each day!

2 random fun facts about you?
I love walking on the beach and beach music is my favorite (60's classic beach)

Hello I am Leigh

I love to cook, garden, watch football, read, and exercise (outdoors preferably)

I have fine tuned the eating plan in maintenance this past year to most closely be a mashup of Mediterranean and DASH......I tweak macros to support my fitness goals, and have found a good personal system finally.

Cycling is my favorite exercise, though I love hiking too! I know Fitness is a three legged stool, so I put in my time on ST and Yoga or Qigong to round things out. Also like water classes just because it feels so good!!

My personal challenge is to just keep fine tuning to stay solidly in the middle of my healthy range weight wise. I always hope to improve my lean body mass, as well!

This is my third time on Spark, but first time doing a challenge team....I like to try new things

Random Facts......hmmmmm..... I am a terrible joke teller....I either forget/get confused/ or bust into uncontrolled giggles while telling.... I have an entire room devoted to my shoes that I have NAMED....The Shoe Palace is a real place

Hope to join some of my friends, and also to make some new ones while supporting each other this fall! #goalzbaby

Edited by: STILLSPARKLEIGH at: 9/17/2019 (12:18)

Hi! I'm Cheri

What is your name or nickname? No nickname really

What do you like to do for fun? Yard work, camping!

What diet are you following?Just stay within a 1200 calorie intake range, a lot of protein and vegetables, and exercising.

What is your favorite exercise? Running

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? Getting out of the yoyo dieting and just sticking with a clean lifestyle.

First time doing the 5% Challenge

2 random fun facts about you?
I love camping and I also love yard work/gardening!

Anything else you would like to share? Going on a vacation in December and hope to loose 30lbs by then!

Come and tell us a little about you! - Hi, I've been an off and on member of SP since 2009. Every time I sway from it, the weight comes back on. Back now consistently and working towards a 100 pound goal. Down 12 pounds in the last 3 weeks so am happy about that!

What is your name or nickname? (handle - Yoyonoma) Sunny's my name

What do you like to do for fun? Antiquing, fishing, sitting on my deck and enjoying the outdoors

What diet are you following? Was Keto, no more, didn't see it lasting for me long term. The second you go off, you gain back weight very fast. Spark counting calories and incorporated more plant based items in my diet and getting creative with recipes and learning a new way at an old thing.

What is your favorite exercise? Walking with the dogs and my new (used but new to me) recumbent bike.

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? Yes, I had an unusual EKG about a month ago and it was enough to scare me straight. I'd love to be down more weight before my cardiology appointment in early October.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. - my first

2 random fun facts about you? I work from home and am always looking for ways to get in exercise/movement throughout my day. When others visit at the water cooler, I fold clothes. I'm hoping to apply that same discipline to my eating plan. I love FALL so really happy to be joining a special team for this wonderful season. I've already decorated my house with Halloween stuff inside and will decorate outside in the next two weeks!

Anything else you would like to share? Thanks for the invite and am happy to join this challenge!!

Hi, my name is Catherine and my nickname is Cathy. My handle CATE195 is the nickname I've always wanted but all my long-time friends know me by Cathy so I've stuck with it.

My husband and I are retired and we love to travel. In fact, we are leaving next Monday for our dream trip, a Sicilian Cruise out of Rome with my BIL and his wife. I will miss the first 2 days of the challenge, but will definitely need to get back on track when I return on the 6th.

I have been at goal since January 2018 and am happy to say that the habits that I have incorporated into my diet and exercise have helped me to be successful. These are the very habits that Spark People and the 5% Challenges have taught me and helped to reinforce.

Welcome back to all my fellow 5% Challenge teammates and a great big welcome to the new members who have joined this time.

Hi! I'm Catherine

What is your name or nickname? Gertie

What do you like to do for fun? Read and learn new things (& cook new things)

What diet are you following? Just making small changes and keeping within a calorie limit (still trying to find my flow) Not a fad/structured diet person

What is your favorite exercise? Wogging or Yoga it's a ti

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? Getting back on track.

First time doing the 5% Challenge

2 random fun facts about you?
I started teaching Student Success classes this semester for the first time EVER!
My husband & I have a grilling/meat smoking addiction

Anything else you would like to share? I'm a couple years to approaching the big 5-0 and want to be the best me I can be by then. I've also challenged myself to run a marathon for my 50th

I'm looking forward to joining a group that is in this together. I have no one "out here" that is focusing on getting healthy.

I am Christina (cbullis1)

What is your name or nickname? People either call me Chris or Christina

What do you like to do for fun? I love listening to music and I want to get back to reading again. I have a 4 year old that just started pre school so I’m starting to find me time

What diet are you following? Healthy eating

What is your favorite exercise? Walking and Spark people videos

2 random fun facts about you? I am a nursing assistant and am on my feet all day. Other days home with family

Come and tell us a little about you!

What is your name or nickname?
Name is Tim, nickname is Tito Tim (Filipino for uncle Tim)

What do you like to do for fun?
I write blogs, and make YouTube videos. I like to wander around the city for vlog/blog inspirations.

What diet are you following?
The Spark tracking plan. All things in moderation.

What is your favorite exercise?
Walking (if I liked exercise I would not be fat ha ha)

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season?
Just getting back into tracking & exercising. Some of my regular health issues flared up for a while, and knocked me off track.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it.
I did complete one a couple years ago and really enjoyed it.

2 random fun facts about you?
I was a single dad for 16 years, in Dallas, TX.
I retired at 48 and moved to the Philippines. Got me a 1 room house, on a rice field!

Anything else you would like to share?
Just glad to be vertical and ventilating. Looking forward to the Challenge!

Come and tell us a little about you!

What is your name or nickname? Jo Ann or Jo

What do you like to do for fun? Read, play piano

What diet are you following? Spark People healthy living

What is your favorite exercise? Walking

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? Eating healthier

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. I have participated in several challenges on the Shooting Star team. Each one has been awesome. I have made so many new friends that have been a great support system. I have learned about new places and our Team leaders make you feel like you are actually there.

2 random fun facts about you? I just took a new job at 81 years of age; I have 8 grandchildren and 15 greats (they are the best)

Anything else you would like to share? The 5% challenge is a fun way to learn a new lifestyle of healthy living. Come join us!

We're all here to help motivate and support our teams.

What is your name or nickname?
Dee

What do you like to do for fun?
shop, watch TV/Movies

What diet are you following?
none

What is your favorite exercise?
treadmill

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season?
I have scoliosis but so far I am still able to do everything...but I do modify anything that involves the lower back muscles

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it.
no

2 random fun facts about you?
Born in Chicago...live in Dallas, Tx
I hate eggs!!!

What is your name or nickname?
Stephanie or Steph

What do you like to do for fun?
Play games, watch TV/Movies

What diet are you following?
Diabetic Nutrition plan. Though I don't have diabetes yet. I am close.

What is your favorite exercise?
Swimming

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season?
I am fighting with Fibromyalgia that makes it hard to get moving but I am working on not let it get me down.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it.
no

2 random fun facts about you?
I like to ghost hunt.
I have two dogs at are so spoiled!

What is your name or nickname? Matt

What do you like to do for fun? Play games, watch TV/Movies, Geocaching

What diet are you following? Will start up following the Naturally Slim Program

What is your favorite exercise? Walking

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? Heart Healthy Diet

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. Yes. I have completed this challenge a few times, but never actually hit the 5%

2 random fun facts about you? I enjoy Geocaching and recently started playing again. I have never seen Titanic and I wear it as a badge of honor.

Come and tell us a little about you!

What is your name or nickname? Ravenskie

What do you like to do for fun? Be outdoors, hiking, Frisbee golf, fairs, flee markets, derby's, movies, painting clay sculptures, playing board, video, & card games, reading, and hanging out with family and friends.

What diet are you following? Just Vegetarian

What is your favorite exercise? I like doing Yoga

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? Emotional Eating due to Depression.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. N/A

2 random fun facts about you? I am a coffee addict I drink 2 pots a day. I speak/read/write 3 different languages English, Hindi, Russian.

Anything else you would like to share? Let's do this!!

What is your name or nickname? Lisa

What do you like to do for fun? I like to read and take care of my furbabies

What diet are you following? SP by following a healthier lifestyle

What is your favorite exercise? Playing with my dogs {and walking}

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? I would like to form good healthy habits

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. No previous 5% challenge.

2 random fun facts about you? My arms are dislocated and I am OCD about cleaning my house.

Come and tell us a little about you!

What is your name or nickname? Glee

What do you like to do for fun? Go the park and swing

What diet are you following? None

What is your favorite exercise? Walking

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? I would like to go from obese to overweight.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. No previous 5% challenge.

2 random fun facts about you? I wear my hair in a different style at lest 5 times a week. My second toe is longer than my big toe.

Anything else you would like to share? I am looking forward to participating.

Come and tell us a little about you!

What is your name or nickname? Mel

What do you like to do for fun? Spend time with my children.

What diet are you following? OMAD (one meal a day) and IF (intermittent fasting. 20/4) Counting calories.

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? Knees bother me more in colder weather.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. None.

2 random fun facts about you? I scare easily. Never been ticklish.

Anything else you would like to share?

Edited by: CARMEL_466 at: 9/17/2019 (20:53)

Hi there! Michelle here!

I am 43 and have been struggling with my weight my entire life. I have decided to try a half-marathon in October of 2020, so I am off and sort-of running. =)

I am competitive, so I think this new challenge will be perfect for me. I am super excited to get started.

I am a huge Cubs fan and love to read and watch movies.

We can do this!

Hello everyone my nick name is Nana

I enjoy going to work, spending time with friends and family and having the weekends off

I do not follow any diet I am changing the way I eat to a more healthy way.

My favorite exercise is walks when I have time. I park my car further from the building, take short walks at break time. Walks takes the cobwebs out of my head.

My personal challenge is trying to drop 50 lb.

Never did a previous 5% Challenge. This is all new to me.

2 random fun facts about me I truly believe in God, I listen to Joel Osteen as often as I can.

Anything else you would like to share? Think positive, you are one step closer to your dream.
I am a native New Yorker but currently live in Pennsylvania

Edited by: NANALULU2 at: 9/16/2019 (10:55)

What is your name or nickname?
Jackie / Mrpeabody

What do you like to do for fun?
Spend time with friends & family.

What diet are you following?
Mostly vegan but I give myself allowances so they don't become fixations.

What is your favorite exercise?
Swimming

Personal challenge this season?
I would like to see if I can eliminate meds by diet and exercise changes.

If you did a previous 5% challenge tell us about it.
First challenge

2 random fun facts about you?
At 50, I am the baby in my neighborhood.
I love to try/learn new things.

Anything else you would like to share?
I am looking forward to this challenge.

What is your name or nickname? Holly

What do you like to do for fun? Spend time at the beach, read, pour candles, garden.

What diet are you following? I don't follow any diet, but I am a vegan.

What is your favorite exercise? I walk miles and miles in local neighborhoods and on the beach. Typically 5 - 8 miles a day.

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? Finding a way to break this neverending weight plateau on which I have been. Having thyroid disease (Hashimoto's) I've found it extremely difficult to lose weight, but I don't believe for a minute it is impossible and I'll never give up trying.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. I'm a newbie.

2 random fun facts about you? I read tarot cards and I can veganize almost any recipe.

Anything else you would like to share? I have 7 cats in a 600 square foot house and therefore qualify as a crazy cat lady.

What is your name or nickname? Sam

What do you like to do for fun? Shopping with my sister, biking, reading.

What diet are you following? Spark People

What is your favorite exercise? Walking videos

Personal challenge this season? Not to eat junk food.

If you did a previous 5% challenge tell us about it. First Challenge

2 random fun facts about you? I like to cross stitch, Love to play with my 2 Yorkie puppies, 9 months old

Anything else you would like to share? Looking forward to this challenge, need to have some consistency.

What is your name or nickname? Patti

What do you like to do for fun? On line brain games, read

What diet are you following? Counting calories, no food or food group is off-limits,

What is your favorite exercise? Indoor walking workouts

Personal challenge this season? Time constraints, hard to focus on a healthy lifestyle

If you did a previous 5% challenge tell us about it. 5% Fall challenge 2017 .

2 random fun facts about you? I like to cook and watch baking shows on tv. I do not bake at home!

Anything else you would like to share? I am looking forward to this challenge! Something new and different is what I need!

What is your name or nickname? Maurizia, or Mauri

What do you like to do for fun? Read, crosswords, theater, movies, jazz music, spend tech-free days, days alone

What diet are you following? WW

What is your favorite exercise? Qi Gong

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? Fitting in exercise & eating 3 proper meals a day in my 12-14 hour workdays, 7 day work weeks

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. Yes, many. The challenges have helped me lose 57 lbs, and from regaining it since 2014. More to go.

2 random fun facts about you? 1) I work on a 38 ft pink RV called the Hope Bus; 2) addicted to NCIS

Anything else you would like to share? Don't get discouraged. Stick with the Challenge. If you go off plan, just get back to it...not the next day, but next meal. If you get lost in how it works, ask your teammates or leaders. We are all here to help each other...and we celebrate each other's wins...no matter how small you think it is. We'll also help with the stumbles.

Come and tell us a little about you! - I just returned to Spark People 2 days ago after a 5-year absence. It's good to see some familiar names are still here.

What is your name or nickname? - Denise

What do you like to do for fun? - Gardening, computer games, and reading.

What diet are you following? - None specific.

What is your favorite exercise? - I don't have one currently. I used to enjoy long walks but I am having low back and sciatica problems.

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? My back and sciatica significantly restrict my activities.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. - I did one 5 or 6 years ago.

2 random fun facts about you? - I volunteer in a food pantry 2 days a week. Helping others feels awesome.

Anything else you would like to share?

Edited by: TOKIEMOON at: 9/16/2019 (01:14)

Come and tell us a little about you!

What is your name or nickname? Sarah or macratdoll

What do you like to do for fun? Lifting weights in the gym

What diet are you following? Tracking Macros

What is your favorite exercise? I have so many it's just whatever my trainer has me do is my fav. If I had to pick one it would be squats in the squat rack.

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? A very busy Holiday season at work and my hours vary so not sure if I'll work day shift or evening.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. This is my first challenge and I'm looking forward to it.

2 random fun facts about you? I'm a gym rat and could easily spend hours working out. I love to watch or keep up with Football and Baseball. Love the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals are me teams.

Anything else you would like to share?

We're all here to help motivate and support our teams.

Come and tell us a little about you!

What is your name or nickname? Cindi

What do you like to do for fun? Fun? What's that? Actually, I walk outside for fun. I also like to read, shop, and cook and garden.

What diet are you following? Weight Watchers Freestyle.

What is your favorite exercise? Walk and sometimes I like to run.

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? A very busy schedule and lots of changes at work. My job is very stressful at times.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. I've been doing these for a few years. Once you get the routine down the challenges are pretty easy.

2 random fun facts about you?

Anything else you would like to share?

Come and tell us a little about you!

What is your name or nickname? Name: Carol Nickname: Redrobin47

What do you like to do for fun? Play with my dog, take rides in the country with my hubby, read, go to the gym, fish, hike, spend time with my grandchildren and kids.

What diet are you following? No diet. SparkPeople healthy eating and tracking all food

What is your favorite exercise? Walking

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? I am a caretaker for my hubby who has onset dementia, diabetes and other health issues, so sometimes my free time is limited due to his needs and doctor's appointments.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. I have done many 5% challenges, always as a Clover. I have always enjoyed them but take a season off now and then.

2 random fun facts about you? I love to fish and I used to raise cattle.

Anything else you would like to share? Nothing I can think of at this time.

What is your name or nick name? Cass

What do you like to do for fun?
Spending time with friends and family, learning new things, travelling

What diet are you following?
None

What is your favorite exercise?
CrossFit

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season?
Sticking with my 3x/wk CrossFit schedule.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it.
This will be my first

Two (2) random fun facts about you?
I'm French-Canadian and I love mangos �

Anything else you would like to share?
I don't know what I'm doing but I'll do my best

What is your name or nickname? Hi team, I am MJ and I live in the wonderful Gaspereau Valley of Nova Scotia, Canada.

What do you like to do for fun? My passion is gardening, I have close to an acre of perennial and shrub beds. I also like hiking and listening to all forms of music, especially blues and jazz guitar.

What diet are you following? I am 95% vegan.

What is your favorite exercise? Walking but I also lift weights, do some daily yoga and focus on functional fitness.

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? I will continue to maintain my weight and I am aiming for a year end total of 3000 miles walked in 2019.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. I am the Motivational Leader of the Weight Warriors, an amazing and powerful team.

2 random fun facts about you? I am 72 years young, mom of a son and daughter and grammy of two awesome grandkids (boy-9, girl-6). Please call me MJ, only my sister ever called me by my full name (think Tom Petty's "Last Dance With Mary Jane").

What is your name or nickname? Deb

What do you like to do for fun? Hike and MMROPG Lotro

What diet are you following? Gluten free low starch

What is your favorite exercise? Favorite used to be elliptical, but once I got a daith piercing for migraines which I haven't had one since July (they start but don't go anywhere) my back doesn't hurt as much so I've started walking and throwing in jogging which right now I am only practicing in my apt

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? A lot of changes at work

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. I've done several. The last couple I haven't lost much but now that I don't have migraines like I did I'm hoping to change that for fall

2 random fun facts about you? Single never married retired working part-time

Anything else you would like to share? Help my elderly mother a lot who lives in apt next to me

We're all here to help motivate and support our teams.

Thanks for doing all introductions on this thread so we can all follow each other here.

Take a moment and read the introductions thread and visit members' Spark pages and leave a message that you stopped by. Introduce yourself to prospective new teammates.

We will have the most successful Spark teams ever!

Newly joined today. Looking forward to getting to know everyone, and get more active each day .. I needed a good challenge!

What is your name or nickname? -sylvie

What do you like to do for fun? -reading, hiking, time with my granddaughter, crafting, DIY projects

What diet are you following? no diet, just more fresh food, lots of water & exercise.. i do stay low'ish carb, but i eat all my veggies and fruit..

What is your favorite exercise? - walking, and eventually running when i lose more weight. i miss running. also love hiking!

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? -water intake and getting more active each day..

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. This is my first one!

2 random fun facts about you? My granddaughter calls me Meema, one of my long term goals is to do a long hike..

Anything else you would like to share? I surround myself with positivity as much as I can.. I meditate, and practice Buddhism. Life is as good as we make it!

What is your name or nickname?Rusty

What do you like to do for fun?Railroading

What diet are you following?Balanced Meals

What is your favorite exercise?swimming

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season?lose 16 pounds

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it.Summer 19 worked for weight loss

2 random fun facts about you? Participate in Little Theater productions: Love railroad history














;

What is your name or nickname? Barbie

What do you like to do for fun? walk, yoga, read, knit, make cards and scrapbook

What diet are you following? I am currently enrolled in a Total Health Improvement Program which is whole food, plant slant nutrition plan

What is your favorite exercise? walking, swimming and yoga

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? I have been continuing to deal with hip and back pain so my challenge is finding balance with what works best

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. I have participated in several previous 5% challenges and have never been very successful in losing weight, but I have learned new healthier habits

2 random fun facts about you?
(1) I used to belong to the Masters Swim Team and swam across the mighty Columbia river (1 plus miles) with my two sons and a group from our Masters Swim Team. This was in 1992 before my oldest son (middle child) passed away from a downhill skiing accident.

(2) This summer I went ziplining for my first time ever with a group of friends from the Distinguished Young Women scholarship program that I volunteer for.

Anything else you would like to share? Nothing I can think of right now.

Edited by: BARBIE176 at: 9/12/2019 (15:44)

What is your name or nickname? Nessa

What do you like to do for fun?
puzzles, video games, cook new things

What diet are you following?
trying to stay in my spark range while meeting the macros recommended by my doctor

What is your favorite exercise? Hiking, I wish I could do more of it

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season?
Coming off the bench, doctors finally cleared me to go again

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it.
I have done many, I don't always make my 5% but I always have a good time

2 random fun facts about you?
I used to have hair down to my knees
I treasure my alone time like a dragon loves gold

Anything else you would like to share?
nope

Hello Teammates!

What is your name or nickname? Susan
What do you like to do for fun? Cottage time, time with family, enjoying my granddaughters, training my puppy, traveling.

What diet are you following? Balanced diet, 1200 calories/day, allowing 1500 on special occasions. I am following the Beck Diet Solutions techniques and belong to the Beck Diet Solutions Team. The Beck Diet Solutions book is written by Judith Beck whose father pioneered Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and this book is based on CBT and changing the way you think and the way you react to situations and changing your habits.

What is your favorite exercise? Walking.

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? No.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. I did a summer one in a previous year, but the timing wasn’t good because I was at the cottage a lot and internet is either not available or can’t hold a signal long enough to do anything and walking area is limited, unless I want to venture into the woods with the bears and moose. We also went on a 3 week trip to Europe which included a cruise. I think the Fall will work better because I don’t have any trips planned, we will be closing the cottage for the winter in a couple of weeks, and after a lax summer I am ready to get serious again.

2 random fun facts about you? I used to be terrified of heights and I overcame my fear by working on the roof of the cottage we built, zip lining over a rainforest, doing a Tarzan swing, doing the CN Tower Edge Walk in Toronto, and doing the Grand Canyon Skywalk. I’ve also flown in a glider and I’ve done whitewater rafting. I wanted to try parachuting but I know, at my age, that even if I land well, it will hurt.

Anything else you would like to share? I am looking forward to this Challenge. I have lost 48 lbs since my highest weight.

Hello Teammates!

What is your name or nickname? Regina
What do you like to do for fun? Well, eating unfortunately😆 also hiking, running, cooking, reading, playing games and coffee dates

What diet are you following? More like a collection of guidelines

What is your favorite exercise? Barre, running, body flow

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? No

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. I haven’t but want some tough love accountability

2 random fun facts about you? I Can drink coffee as my bedtime drink and went from 2- almost 20 pets this year when my husband started a hobby farm

Anything else you would like to share? I Would love to have a few friends on here to share victories and setbacks with

Hello Teammates!

What is your name or nickname? SONIA

What do you like to do for fun? I LIKE GOING TO THE MOVIES, AND TO NEW RESTAURANTS WITH FRIENDS.

What diet are you following? NONE, BUUUUUT, I SHOULD BE LOW CARBING...

What is your favorite exercise? ZUMBA! BUT I AM NOT PHYSICALLY ABLE TO AT THIS TIE.

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? VERY BAD ARTHRITIS AND BURSITIS

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. I DID DO CHALLENGES ABOUT 2YRS AGO. I LOVED HOW IT HELPED TO BUILD HABITS, AND I WANT THOSE HABITS AGAIN,

2 random fun facts about you? I WAS A LIEUTENANT ON A STAR TREK FAN SHIP. I PERFORMED THE CARMINA BURANA IN HIGH SCHOOL - THE WHOOOOOLE THING.

Anything else you would like to share? I LOVE TO CHAT DAILY, AND WISH THERE WAS A WAY I COULD DO THAT HERE.

What is your name or nickname? Phyllis

What do you like to do for fun?
Travel in summer or craft projects in winter

What diet are you following?
A balanced healthy plan with fewer snacks or fruit/veggie snacks

What is your favorite exercise? Walking is my go-to exercise
I like meditation walks in the evening as I watch the sunset.

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season?
New doctors/testing/ so far so good.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it.
I have done several 5% challenges, I have always enjoyed the teams and the encouragement that I get from them.

2 random fun facts about you?
I crossed zip-lining off my bucket list this summer!
I make a new bucket list every summer.

Anything else you would like to share?
The Friends I’ve made on Spark are some of my favorite people.


Edited by: MAWMAW101 at: 9/9/2019 (12:37)

What is your name or nickname?
Janet
What do you like to do for fun?
Travel
What diet are you following?
Cutting back - eating healthy portions, tracking food on SP, usually a protein shake for lunch, replacing simple carbs with complex carbs.
What is your favorite exercise?
Walking or hiking
Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season?
Hmmmm . . . I don't think so.
If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it.
I've never done this.
2 random fun facts about you?
I live with my husband and dog in Lookout Mountain, Georgia. (our son is in college)
I love going to Met Opera at the Cineam
Anything else you would like to share?
I've been working on losing weight since mid-March. I've lost 17 pounds. I believe that weight lost slowly is less likely to return.

What is your name or nickname? Taylor

What do you like to do for fun? Crafting, spending time with family, DIY projects

What diet are you following? whatever I can grab in a hurry while working full time and attending grad school full time - which is very bad.

What is your favorite exercise? walking, running (when my knee allows), interested in weight lifting

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? I'm in the home stretch of grad school (2nd edition). This is my final semester.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. I did the summer challenge in 2017 and I did really well. I loved the team support and I got back to where I wanted to be. (Since then I've gained everything back and I really need a do-over).

2 random fun facts about you? I have built my own computer and I'm supposed to do The Murph late next spring.

Anything else you would like to share? I love this community!

What is your name or nickname? Debbe

What do you like to do for fun? Walking, reading, games, poolside most of the summer :)

What diet are you following? tracking a very low carb menu

What is your favorite exercise? walking, weights and dancing

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? Just trying to keep myself calmer as school started back up our Administrators have forgotten what it's like to teach. They've been very very difficult and confrontational to all of us.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. Even though I don't usually hit my goal during the challenges, they keep me motivated. I have lost 15 pounds since January and I'm really going to step it up for the fall challenge. If I cant get another 10 lbs off before the holidays, I would be very very happy!

2 random fun facts about you? I'm a heavy metal, prog rock, punk, goth girl. I'm a teacher.

Anything else you would like to share? Totally looking forward to the Fall Challenge!

What is your name or nickname? MaryAnn

What do you like to do for fun? Outdoor activities like camping, hiking, snorkeling.

What diet are you following? SP tracking

What is your favorite exercise? Hiking, walking & Zumba

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? Trying to get back to where I was in the Spring. I lose the weight but can't keep it off. Maintenance is a skill I haven't learned yet.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it. 2019 Winter challenge successful, 2019 Spring challenge did well, took the summer off.

2 random fun facts about you? I'm a shorty 5'1". I live with a very unhealthy person, makes being healthy more challenging.

Anything else you would like to share? I hope I can stick with it and keep it off.

We're all here to help motivate and support our teams.

Thanks for doing all introductions on this thread so we can all follow each other here.

Come and tell us a little about you!

What is your name or nickname?Amanda

What do you like to do for fun? Read or Watch Netflix or Hulu

What diet are you following? Eating Healthy, tracking everything mostly everyday, eating a balanced diet

What is your favorite exercise? Walking

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season? Staying motivated while dealing with alot of stuff going on. Also dealing with Depression and Anxiety makes it hard, usually the Fall is my worse time, but Im determined to stay motivated and get through the Fall

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it.I have done a few, the last one (Summer 2019) has been my most succesful one. I lost over 7.5%

2 random fun facts about you? I have 7 cats, and my husbands family owns a farm which I help milk cows mostly every day at 4:30 am

Anything else you would like to share?

We're all here to help motivate and support our teams.

What is your name or nickname?
Audrey

What do you like to do for fun?
Listen to music, go to shows, watch tv/cinema, read and philosophy

What diet are you following?
I am vegan and I will be doing the IF again 8/16

What is your favorite exercise?
I play roller derby but I like long walks, hiking, bike, everything really :)

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season?
I deal with depression and anxiety all year around, but now off medication.
I am starting everything over, trying to have a more relaxed and stable life routine :)

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it.
It's my first time! I was looking for this kind of challenge and I just heard about it for the first time yesterday!

2 random fun facts about you?
I've been on SP since 2006
I am both eccentric and introverted :)

Anything else you would like to share?
I had major depression for the past 2 years but I feel motivated for this switch now, i'm so ready :)

Looking forward to have fun on SP again! :)) LETS DO THIS!


Edited by: AFINEMESS at: 9/6/2019 (15:24)

Come and tell us a little about you!

What is your name or nickname?
Marbea

What do you like to do for fun?
Spend time with my daughter, she really is what motivates me and my husband in all our decisions. We have a great little dog that fills the rest of our lives. In a few weeks, I might enjoy doing lots of things that I had lost interest in.

What diet are you following?
Kidney diet giben to me by my Nephrologist

What is your favorite exercise?
Yoga

Do you have a personal challenge you are dealing with this season?
Yes, I had surgery last Wed. Ep post op Rehab will be my challenge for the upcoming months.

If you did a previous 5% Challenge tell us about it.
I have done many but my last season was my best. I was of low motivation for years and finally I decided to really follow it and Post promptly. I met goal and was consistent in my reporing in a timely manner.

2 random fun facts about you?


Anything else you would like to share?