November/December Weight Loss Thread?

[Over50Newbie]

So I really missed coming to the weight loss thread yesterday to post my weight.

Are people interested in starting a new one from now until the end of the year?

Is it unfair for me to ask, since I am not the one that puts up that wonderful chart and posts all of the weights? I'm sure that is a ton of work!!!

I would be happy to just post my weight every Friday to keep me accountable, even if I don't have the chart to look at.

Well, anyway, if people are interested...

My starting weight is 142.5
My goal weight for December 31st is 135

Lynette

[Blue_Wildflower]

I am definitely interested. I missed the first challenge.

My starting weight is 143lbs
Goal Weight is 135lbs

Brenda

[Over50Newbie]

Blue Wildflower,

If no one else is interested, then let's do this together!!

Our goals are exactly the same. :)

Lynette

[Possegal]

I'm interested and I think a lot of others mentioned being interested in the sept/oct thread. If needed, I can put the spreadsheet together.

[firenze11]

I'm still in!

This weekend has been crazy with lots of early birthday meals! I'm sure I'm higher now than when I weighed last but I'll put down my weight on Friday: 138

My goal for December 31st is to either maintain or to get to my ultimate goal of 130. I'll work for the ultimate goal but I'm not going to go crazy, I'll be happy if I just don't gain with all the goodies around. :)

[Grits]

Me too, me too! It is very motivating to me to post weekly. I will especially need some motivation with the holidays coming up.

Current weight: 139
Goal weight: 137

[3for3]

I'm in! After having company in town to cook all sorts of goodies for, I'm back up to where I started in September! :( With the holidays I'd like to keep my goals small so they are more realistic.

weight: 126.4
goal: 124

[martinkap]

UPDATED sheet will be always posted on the first page in my first post. This way one does not have go through tens of pages of the thread to find the newest update:

Link: http://spreadsheets.google.com/ccc?key=pgzHGysK_DX4MK8A4CgfyVg

Pic:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3016/3019832102_e454933c6a_o.jpg

Martina

[Over50Newbie]

Ooh, Martinkap - I love it!!!

Thank you for taking the initiative to do this.

So, how do you "share the responsibilities?"

Do you have to give me access to edit the spreadsheet?

Do I have to become a member of Google Docs?

I'll be happy to help - just let me know what to do.

You can PM me if you want or just respond here so that everyone will know how to help.

Thanks again,

Lynette

[martinkap]

Ooh, Martinkap - I love it!!!

Thank you for taking the initiative to do this.

So, how do you "share the responsibilities?"

Do you have to give me access to edit the spreadsheet?

Do I have to become a member of Google Docs?

I'll be happy to help - just let me know what to do.

You can PM me if you want or just respond here so that everyone will know how to help.

Thanks again,

Lynette

Hi Lynette,

yes, I give a person access rights - they have to have a google login. That person can edit but also will have option to delete or mess up the whole sheet. I am hoping to share with someone who is savvy in spreadsheet and google environment.

Martina

[Possegal]

oh very cool! i work with spreadsheets all the time, though have yet to work with google docs. but if needed, i'm sure i can get up to speed and help.

my start weight 177
my goal for this period 170

[Aggie_Ama]

I am in!

Weight this AM: 150 (grrr found a couple pounds since 10/31)
Goal: 143

I am setting my loss goal lower for two months (7 lbs) even though I am actively following Weight Watchers and hope to see more. I love Christmas and baking so I know there may be some stumbles. :rolleyes: Thanks for doing this ladies!

[ASammy1]

Count me in too!

Starting weight: 204.5
Goal: 195

[martinkap]

see my first post. That is the place where all the updates will be.

[Over50Newbie]

Martinkap,

I am a computer teacher so I am very computer savvy. But I am not a member of Google Docs and have never used that particular site before.

But like Possegal, I would be happy to learn it.

Too many cooks spoil the broth, so I will defer to Possegal to help you out.

But if she ends up not being able to do it, I will jump right in to help.

Lynette

[Possegal]

just got myself registered with google docs, so i'm good to go and will be happy to help out!

[martinkap]

Martinkap,

I am a computer teacher so I am very computer savvy. But I am not a member of Google Docs and have never used that particular site before.

But like Possegal, I would be happy to learn it.

Too many cooks spoil the broth, so I will defer to Possegal to help you out.

But if she ends up not being able to do it, I will jump right in to help.

Lynette
Great - I did not want to be discouraging. I just wanted to make sure that we will not have to spent more time on it than needed.

I have already created all the formulas and tested them. So, the 'lbs lost' is already computed by itself (it looks for the first unempty cell from the right and then computes the difference). This way the formula is able to track which one is the newest number regardless of what was submitted before and compute the difference without a human interaction (the formula took a moment to develop and type it up). Computing '% lost' was then easy.

So, the only work left is updating the left side of the table which I am so far managing. I have also added a line on the bottom of the table which indicates the last updated post. Thus we know from which post # the updates has not been made.

Having a gmail account is great anyway - so if you want to do it, let me know your email and I send you the rights.

The same, Possegal, let me know your gmail account name and I give you the rights.

Thank you so much for your help.

Martina

[gnat23]

Yay I'm in!

11/7: 138.5
Goal: 134.0

(My Thanksgiving and Xmas holidays are in there, hence the non-aggressive goal. Shoot, I should be happy if the scale doesn't go *up*!)

-- gnat!

[jesvetmed]

Oh cool. Glad we're at it again.
I'm in.
Starting weight: 171.5 lb. Height: 5ft 7.5 in
Goal: 158 lb. AGAIN!
Thanks for doing this!

[squirrell]

Shoot! I just now saw this--is it too late? The Century last month really threw me off my weight loss but now, it's started again, and I've lost 1 pound since Saturday!

Can I join in or is it too late?

If I can join:

Starting weight 11/12/2008: 207

Goal weight: 200

I'd really LOVE to be under 200 by the end of the year and lose the "athena" status :D

[Mistie]

I have been out riding my new bike when work allows! So, my starting weight is 150lbs and would like to be 145lbs (better goals this itme). THANKS for getting this started again to all of you!

[3for3]

Is it worse to be wasteful or worse to end up eating food that I know is terrible for me? I have leftover caramel apple pie, breakfast casserole, biscotti, and home-made macaroni and cheese in the house. Our company is gone, and my husband left for a business trip...so if it's in the house, I am the only one to eat it! Maybe it's the way I was raised, but I absolutely can't stand throwing away good food! I think I'm looking for consolation that it's better to throw this food out and be a little wasteful, than to end up eating it and inevitably gaining weight.

[Possegal]

Never too late to join, I'll update the document with the new info if martina hasn't already. :)

And I understand the waste versus waist debate. It took me some time but I've finally gotten to where I can toss out food that I have for a party or something, rather than keeping it in my house. If I had good restraint, it would be fine. But I've been known to sit down and eat a whole platter of rice krispy treats at a sitting. :) So tossing out the cookies or pies or chips or whatever, is healthier for ME, and I'm the only one looking out for me. (but yeah, the Catholic guilt does get to me at times).

[Blue_Wildflower]

Is it worse to be wasteful or worse to end up eating food that I know is terrible for me? I have leftover caramel apple pie, breakfast casserole, biscotti, and home-made macaroni and cheese in the house. Our company is gone, and my husband left for a business trip...so if it's in the house, I am the only one to eat it! Maybe it's the way I was raised, but I absolutely can't stand throwing away good food! I think I'm looking for consolation that it's better to throw this food out and be a little wasteful, than to end up eating it and inevitably gaining weight.

How about freezing it? I hate to throw away food as well.

Personally, I do not think there is anything wrong with a splurge now and then. You can divide it up into small portions and freeze it. Or, throw away half and freeze the other half (divide it up into small portions).

Maybe you can have a small portion of the mac & cheese, salad and protein for a healthy lunch or dinner.

[Aggie_Ama]

I am glad to see we are setting realistic goals for the holiday season. :p I try to eat sensibly but I love Christmas mainly, nothing I like more than baking for days on end. So really how can I expect to lose loads? Plus I have a head cold right now and no working out at the moment so I am already off to a slow start.

3for3 I would through out most of it. I hate to waste but I have absolutely no willpower. I would devour it all and be miserable and guilty later.

[3for3]

I threw it all out! I kind of cringed but kind of felt empowered also. :)

[Over50Newbie]

Okay - first weigh in.

I was 141.6 just two days ago, but I am now 143.2. So my official weigh-in weight is 143.2 :confused:

I'm hoping to post a lower number next week.

Lynette

[Aggie_Ama]

147.5. I have been eating bad since being sick and unable to work out. A loss is good but I feel pudgy today, isn't it weird how that works? I really think right now I am just fluctuating on water but lower numbers are what I want so I will take it and not over think it.

[Blue_Wildflower]

143lbs

Same as last week. Not bad especially after my PMS carb binges last weekend. lol.

[kjay]

Glad to see we're here again. I know I have a lot of muscle, but that fat must GO!

Current weight: 185
Goal weight: 177

[firenze11]

136.4 this morning.

May I change my goal to 134? I doubt I'll get to 130 and I want to enjoy the yumminess of the holidays. Thanks!

[Possegal]

I changed your goal firenze and kjay, I added you in and put you start weight down as the same for both this week and last week - just to be sure not to screw up the formatting of the spreadsheet. :)

I'll screen capture once all have reported in, but here is the link, you can always check it there.

http://spreadsheets.google.com/ccc?key=pgzHGysK_DX4MK8A4CgfyVg

[Mistie]

149 today! yay!

[Grits]

Up to 140. Boo.

[firenze11]

Thanks Possegal!

[3for3]

My weigh in: 126.4 So I think I'm the same as my start weight. BUT three days ago I was 127.2!! So I'm happy to be working back down. It helps that I threw out all that junk food!

[AutumnBreez]

Weigh in: 183

Changing my eating habits to Vegan Raw Food.
This should be interesting...I did it a few years back, lost weight but went back to SAD (Standard American Diet) and gained it back. 22 lbs in 2.5 months. Only thing that ever took it off.

[Possegal]

I added you in Autumnbreeze, did you have a goal weight that you want me to put in the chart? I didn't see a prior post with one in it. I'm fascinated by the idea of your new diet, though doubt it is something I could accomplish. But would be interested in hearing more about it.

[ASammy1]

I'm the same! Again!

[Aggie_Ama]

Autumn I am also curious about your diet. I like meat too much plus hot food but I am still intrigued.

[gnat23]

140 this last Friday. Der, but I'm already coming back down. Salt?

Trying something new with a bunch of webtools I've found around. I have a google visualization thingy tracking my overall body composition, a twitter feed keeping track of what I eat (just not how much) that I can update from my cell phone, and some "inspirational" photos that randomize (may not be the safest for work!) :)

http://www.bugsmack.com/fit/

Please just don't ask me how I did it, 'cause I'm still wrapping my head around the code...!

-- gnat! (Not a geek, but plays one on tv)

[Susan Otcenas]

Hi Ladies,

May I join you?

I've had a very busy year or two, and have not taken care of myself the way I should have been. And sadly, not nearly enough riding as I would like.

SOoooo, I joined Weight Watchers a few weeks ago, in an effort to drop off some of these extra pounds I'm carrying around. I do well in the structured environment of a program like WW, because I have to track everything, write down everything that passes my lips, etc. It keeps me accountable, and I like that.

Joining you ladies would help keep me accountable to someone other than myself! Which I also know works for me, from experience. When I was 20, I wanted to quit smoking (I'd smoked since I was 14yo). So, I told EVERYONE I knew that I was going to quit, figuring that the embarrassment of failure would be enough to motivate me. Well, I'm 39yo now and I haven't had a cigarette since then, so it must have worked!

So, if you can add me to the spreadsheet, that would be super.
11/7 would be 165lb. 11/14 would be 162lb.

I guess I need a goal, too..... Let's say 155 by year end. The holidays are going to be tough.

Thanks!

Susan

[Possegal]

Absolutely Susan, I've added you in!

http://spreadsheets.google.com/ccc?key=pgzHGysK_DX4MK8A4CgfyVg

[Susan Otcenas]

Excellent!

I think the biggest challenge for me will be Thanksgiving. On the bright side, I'm the one doing all the cooking (for 7) so I have control over what goes into the food. I"m busily lightening up some of my favorite recipes in preparation, but I'd be curious to know what everyone else is doing to stay on track for the holidays.

Susan

[Bluetree]

I would like to participate, too. I've been letting it slide for the last few months. :( I could use some help keeping on track, esp. since heavier fall/winter clothes can hide a multitude of "sins"

I'm at 114.5 now, I need to get back down to 107.

[martinkap]

I am back - thank you Possegal for taking care of the sheet. After a weekend with a lot of great food, pies and beer - I am on 156. Not a good direction!

[Aggie_Ama]

Excellent!

i"m busily lightening up some of my favorite recipes in preparation, but I'd be curious to know what everyone else is doing to stay on track for the holidays.

Susan


We run a 5 mile turkey trot fun run on Thanksgiving. It means we have to get up and run before we can go to the inlaws. Otherwise I do tend to be the weirdo eating on the small plate, then I cannot over fill it. My family knows I do weight watchers so they just think "MORE FOR US!" I don't like pie but I love cranberry sauce and stuffing.

My weakness is Christmas, I love baking so check in come December with how I am fighting the urge to eat 982 Christmas cookies. :o

[Susan Otcenas]

We run a 5 mile turkey trot fun run on Thanksgiving. It means we have to get up and run before we can go to the inlaws.

The past few years I've done a morning ride (30-35 miles) with friends on Thanksgiving morning. It's a good way to burn off some calories AND boost my metabolism before the big meal. But since I'm the cook this year, there's no way I can find the time to do it. But maybe, if I'm really really good about doing as much in advance as possible earlier in the week, I might be able to sneak out for an hour after I put the turkey into the oven. That assumes my house is clean, the table is set, and I've done all my chopping and measuring ahead of time. And that, my friends, is a very BIG "if".

Susan

[ASammy1]

Hi Susan,

The way I'm staying on track is I'm not going home for Turkey Day! I live in VA and the rest of the family is back in MI!

DBF and I are just looking at it as another day off from work. :cool:

[3for3]

Alright, I need to do my weigh in a day early this week because we are heading out of town for ten days for Thanksgiving.

123.8

I would get really excited since that means I've surpassed my goal....but I only lost the weight because of a stomach bug I got this week. I haven't been able to eat much at all. Maybe I can harness the momentum though and keep it off. If I don't gain it all back in the next ten days, THEN I'll get excited but three of the next ten days include Thanksgiving, our family's favorite local pizza joint and Inn n Out (Which I can't get here in Utah!), I'm not holding out too much hope. Although right now I can't really stomach the thought of any of those. I'm better but my stomach still feels like I need to be gentle with it, so we'll see......

Hope you are all managing to move towards your goals in a more healthy way!! And I know it's early but I may not be on for a while, so Happy Thanksgiving to everyone!!!

[polly4711]

Hello all,

this is EXACTLY what I need! I would love to join (if that's ok). Just to make sure, I just need to post on the next date?

My current weight is 161 (it slipped up on me!!!)
My goal weight for December 31st is 155 lbs.

( I figured a pound a week is the healthy suggested weight loss...)

I really gotta do this, so if anyone notices me slipping up... chew me out!!!

JP

[katluvr]

Ok, I am not part of the weigh in challenge. But I have been in the past--never really lost any real weight. Been training for a 1/2 marathon (just completed it) and I really ramped up my "appetite". So now I am not training and I still want to eat. Had s'mores aroudn the fire last night (w/ wine!) and just now (at my desk) at a small reese's peanut butter cup. Not the tiny bites size, and not the full size, but the size inbetween...from Halloween. And I WANT MORE and I hve another one...help me not eat it.

So how do I get things under control THIS time of year, with one party after another AND the cool weather....and I just want food!

There, I feel better, just venting. But the reese's is still calling my name!:eek:

[Possegal]

I added you in JP. I put down the 161 for you weight on the first two weeks, cause I think I need them for the spreadsheet to function. I can put that down for tomorrow too, just let me know, or we can put in a new one if you weigh in differently tomrrow. :)

http://spreadsheets.google.com/ccc?key=pgzHGysK_DX4MK8A4CgfyVg

[Mistie]

Friday's weigh in: 147 lbs.

[Aggie_Ama]

146.5

My cold crawled in my chest. I have decided to forgo the turkey trot but I think we are going to go mountain biking in the morning for Thanksgiving. I would like to run some this weekend but I better get into the doc first to see what is going on with this mostly dry cough. I had some prescription cough syrup with codeine but it gives me whacky dreams, I don't want to take it anymore.

[firenze11]

134.0 this morning. We'll see if it sticks.

[Over50Newbie]

141.6

Much, much better!

My eating has been "spot on" as well as my exercise. :)

Now I just need to keep it up.

BRING IT ON!

Lynette

[Susan Otcenas]

161 this morning.

Slow and steady wins the race.

Katluvr - my advice to you is to get rid of the temptations. Throw away the junk, and surround yourself with healthy snacks. It sounds so elementary, but it really does work.

Last weekend, I baked a birthday cake for a three year old. Here's a photo.

Anyway, the recipe called for all KINDS of junk, like yellow rainbow twizzlers, twinkies, Dots, chocolate wafer cookies (for the dirt), chocolate donettes (for the wheels), M&Ms, etc. Twizzlers and twinkies hold no attraction for me, but M&M's are a big problem. I made the cake and promptly threw away (or gave away) all the extra stuff. Too great a temptation for me!

Yes, I know it was wasteful, but that stuff isn't really good for anyone, really.

I've surrounded myself with healthy snacks - bananas, pears, grapefruit, cantaloupe, rice cakes, etc. First, I ask myself, am I really truly hungry? And if the answer is yes (not just boredom, or stress, or some other mental issue), then I eat the snack without guilt. If I'm really hungry, it's my body's way of telling me I need sustenance. As long as I answer that call with something healthy, then it's OK.

I know it's a struggle. I think we all deal with it every day. But you can do it!!

[kjay]

Good common-sense advice, Susan.

Am down one pound to 184. :-)

[squirrell]

I couldn't find this thread! Forgot to subscribe to it and then had a time finding it again!

Anyway, this morning, I'm down to 205.6!! :)
Goal still is 200

And, Susan, that cake is AWESOME! I showed the pic to my DH, and he said "man, I never got cakes like that when I was a kid!"

[polly4711]

i'm at 159.1 today!!!! let's see if I can keep this up!

[solobiker]

I know I am a little late to join in but I would still like to post if that is all right. I recently started a new job at the end of August. It has kept me busy and stressed most of the time. It has also taken time away from my workouts. My weight is 151 with a goal of 145 by Christmas. Good luck to all of you.

[Grits]

I'm scared to weigh this week. Let's just say I've maintained.

[jesvetmed]

I weighed in Saturday morning and was up... 172.3. UGH.

Then yesterday was spent at a UW/WSU football party with appetizers for at least 100 (there were only 8 of us!), and then a large dinner of ribs and potatoes. Very afraid of the scale today! Glad weigh in is not until next weekend. Some damage control is in order... Thanksgiving or not!
Jes

[Lori81295]

I would like to join in on the weight loss thread if I can.
You can use my weight on the 21st as 147.
My goal weight is 140.

Thank you

[Possegal]

I had a bad week, 178 for me. But I did do the walk for the homeless in DC on saturday, so at least I was moving a bit. :)

I've added info to date.
http://spreadsheets.google.com/ccc?key=pgzHGysK_DX4MK8A4CgfyVg

[Aggie_Ama]

I was up this morning for WW weigh-in. Been doing terrible journaling and I need to start since I am paying for it!

I have bronchitis but it doesn't seem to be kicking my bum too hard, I might go for a run tonight. The irony of it all, my doctor didn't tell me I couldn't run or ride just that I might not feel like it. :rolleyes:

[Susan Otcenas]

I've been trying not to get on the scale much, because I fear becoming obsessed with it. But I stepped on this morning for the 1st time since Friday, not expecting the news to be very positive, and was pleasantly surprised to find myself down to 160 even. I'm sure that by the time we do our "official" weigh in on Friday, I'll be far less delighted. Thursday will be a challenging day!

Aggie_Ama, I've been doing my WW journaling diligently every day. It's really keeping me accountable - if it passes my lips, it goes in the journal. It takes alot of time, as I'm sure you know, but seriously, I think it's the only thing that's keeping my on track! I know myself well enough to know that I would "cheat" if I wasn't journaling. Which is stupid, because I wouldn't be hurting anyone but myself....

I've already gone though all the dishes I'm making for Thursday and entered all the recipes into the receipe builder so that I can see how many points each of them is. Even after lightening up the recipes, the total is a little staggering. :eek: I may resort to just having a *taste* of some of my favorites so that I don't blow the entire week all in one fell swoop. I'm planning lots of fresh veggies and salad, so that I won't be tempted to fill my plate with sweet potatoes and garlic mashed potatoes and stuffing.... Mmmm.... The pies will be my downfall. We have a long standing tradition of having a pie to people ratio of 1:1. So many pies to taste!!

Susan

[ASammy1]

I forgot to weigh in on Friday, but as of today I'm up to 206... :(

I'm trying out a new BCP and since I've been taking it, I can't stop eating... I think it's time to go back to my old trusty one.

[Bluetree]

I maintained this week I think (I have my period so its hard to say).

But I did see this awful photo (http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3235/3056081575_7b8e38e2bc.jpg) of me taken during our past presidents club ride. Talk about motivation – now I'm going to redouble my efforts to get rid of The Pudge.

On the bright side... it was awesome to see guys in their 70s and 80s still riding (our club is 40 years old) :)

[Susan Otcenas]

I hope all the Thanksgiving celebrants had a wonderful time yesterday! We spent the day with a small group of family and friends. We had a great time playing games (We taught Jeff's folks how to bowl on the Wii. His father went undefeated from game 1! It was hilarious.), talking, laughing, and of course, eating.

I determined early on that I wasn't going to deny myself anything. I would at least taste everything on the table, so that I wouldn't feel deprived. This strategy worked very well for me. Although I am 1/2 pound heavier than I was on Wednesday, I'm still down 1.5 pounds from last Friday! 159.5 today. :)

This morning I was back on track, weighing and measuring my breakfast and lunch.

I was chatting with one of the gals in my office who is a lifetime WeightWatchers member. She told me that her strategy with holidays is to remember that even if she has a really really off-plan day on a holiday, that it's just one day. The trick is to get up the next morning and get back on the program. To not let one off-plan day entirely derail you. To not feel like you've "failed" and then quit.

I realized that I've done that in the past. Ate something I shouldn't, and then said "screw it! I've already messed it up, I may as well eat this *other* bad thing", etc. etc. Such a self-defeating attitude. I'm determined to do better this time around.

Hope everyone is safe, healthy and happy.

Susan

[squirrell]

202!!

[Susan Otcenas]

202!!

WooHoo!! GO Squirrell! Only 2 pounds from your goal. :)

[Over50Newbie]

What a good attitude, Susan!

I agree with you wholeheartedly.

I did well this week and ended up at 141.2

I am still right on track for my goal of 138.4 by the end of the year.

Lynette

[kjay]

Well, I wasn't going to post this information because it's just too depressing, but I figure I may as well experiment and share it. I am up 5 pounds this morning, which just HAS to be water weight. I've not eaten enough to put on 5 pounds, that's for certain! So, I'm taking action and will see if it works by next week. (The strange thing is when my scale is in one place, I weigh five pounds more, but when I move it to another place, my weight is down five pounds.) It's making me crazy!

[Susan Otcenas]

(The strange thing is when my scale is in one place, I weigh five pounds more, but when I move it to another place, my weight is down five pounds.) It's making me crazy!

It doesn't sound like you should be depressed. It sounds like you should get a new scale! :D

Regardless, keep your chin up. We're rooting for you!

[ASammy1]

I've maintained @ 206.

[martinkap]

152.5 for me. Sorry for the disruption and big thanks for Possegal to keep the chart running. I got sick with a nasty sinus virus and it took antibiotics to get be back up and running.

All the thanks should go to Possegal, I am just posting the chart:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3016/3019832102_1f34a37aa7_o.png

Martina

[solobiker]

I'm up 1# probably from the good food yesterday. I am now 151. Have to try to re-focus. I did go for a run yesterday am but apparently it was not enough. Oh well, I hope next week to see the scale go down.

[Lori81295]

I have maintained at 147. I am thrilled with that. I did not weigh yesterday for fear that I had gained 5 lbs thanks to wonderful food on Thursday. But to my surprise I held steady. I actually think I have lost, but will have to wait for pms to be over with to see how much water I am holding. :confused:

[GrooverBrisbane]

I'm new to this forum and I just found this thread. I'm struggling with getting to my goal racing weight at the moment. I started off at 59 kg (129.8 lbs) a couple of months ago. I'm now at 125 lbs and my goal weight is 55 kg (121 lbs). I'm stuck at my current weight no matter what I try. Help! :confused:

[firenze11]

Sorry for being late! I've been swamped trying to get my final paper done for the semester.

I'm 132.8 this week.

[Grits]

141. I guess that isn't too bad when I consider all the eating I have been doing!

[Possegal]

I've yet to get on the scale myself but I've updated the chart.

http://spreadsheets.google.com/ccc?key=pgzHGysK_DX4MK8A4CgfyVg

[Aggie_Ama]

147. Not too shabby only finding .5 lbs over the holiday. ;) Now it is time to work for a couple weeks, I am going on a weekend wine trip with my Mom next weekend so I better be good until then.

[3for3]

Last week (the 28th) I was 126.2 I may have lost some ground, but I have to say it was worth it! Time to get back on track now that we're back home...

[Mistie]

I missed last week.....I am 147 lbs today.

[Aggie_Ama]

146.5. I really need to eat a bit less or run a bit more.:rolleyes:

[Over50Newbie]

142.4 - maybe I should just change my goal to maintain my current weight?

Nope!

I'm still going for it!

Let's see if I can post a weight loss for next week.

Lynette

[Lori81295]

I'm at 146. Not as much as I had hoped but still a loss....:)

[Susan Otcenas]

156.5 I'm a happy camper. :)

[solobiker]

Hanging in at 151. My inlaws are in town so it is a little hard to stick to points and exercise as much as I usually do. I will/plan on going for a run this weekend.

[kjay]

Down 2 pounds! :D . . . and that's with only one day of exercise for 6 hours.

[Susan Otcenas]

Yay, kjay!! You seem so much more positive than last week. Success is a great motivator, isn't it? :)

[kjay]

Yes, Susan, and your response to my success is even more motivating. Thanks so much!

[polly4711]

I had that happen, and then I found out that my floor had a very slight slant in it (Gotta love an early 1900's house). Make sure that it's even!

[kjay]

I've moved my scale around so much that now I'm thoroughly confused. My floor is not even, so about the only thing I can do is to leave it in one place, which means I now weigh 182. This just keeps getting better and better! :D

[jesvetmed]

KJAY..... KJAY..... KJAY!!!!!!! Go KJay! Great work.

Me, not so much. 173 this week.
Funny -- I have the same trouble with the scale in my bathroom. As I stand on it, it rocks back and forth unless I find the sweet spot on the floor!

[3for3]

Wow! good job everyone! Wish I was having the same success. I'm up to 127.2

Can someone please remind me that I can NOT actually lose weight by eating Christmas goodies, having people over for big lasagna dinners, playing around with my pie recipe to "perfect" it (and consequently needing to eat the resulting pies) and NOT working out?

I did work out today, but here's my fear. Even if I work out this week and eat really well, I leave on Sunday for TWO WEEKS that include my brother-in-law's wedding, Christmas, and a very long road trip to and from Canada from Atlanta....which of course means eating on the road....which usually means fast food. And how do I manage any sort of work-outs in there?! Help?!?! I need travel-friendly "stay healthy" tips!

[Aggie_Ama]

I am the worst about junk food on the road. Can you pack an ice chest of healthy snacks like fruit and carrots? If you are at fast food remember those salads can be as bad as the other stuff. I try to stick to kids meals and eat really slow. Good luck!

[3for3]

Good call on the kid's meals Aggie Ama! I think I had heard somewhere that they have less calories than the salads a lot of times. We'll be travelling with my in-laws and my mother-in-law is very health conscious, so hopefully there will be healthy snacks available to munch on. Maybe I can also just request a run to her favorite health food store the day before leave so I can pick some stuff up to make sure.

[Possegal]

I've got the creeping crud going around the office. yesterday I felt better as teh day wore on, so I went to spin for an hour. And felt great, exhausted but great. Woke up today feeling worse again and the word day has been just full of fires for me to put out. UGH. My lunch is still sitting here and it is now dinner time. On the plus side, the illness does take my appetite with it. but I wish I could do more working out but I know I should just get better first.

Spreadsheet is updated for today. :)

http://spreadsheets.google.com/ccc?key=pgzHGysK_DX4MK8A4CgfyVg&hl=en

[Susan Otcenas]

As far as the road trip goes:

How about pre-bagging snacks in known point quantities? In other words, if you know 3/4 cup of your favorite granola is 2 points, measure up and pre-bag several portions for the trip. That way, you don't dip into a big bag of something, and lose track of what you're eating. I tend to eat out of boredom when I'm driving, so now I make an effort to be more mindful of that when I'm in the car.

One of my favorite 4 point lunches is an egg salad sandwich. 2 slices of Oroweat Light Wheat bread is only 1 point (hard to believe, I know, but 2 slices are only 80 calories with tons of fiber, so it only comes to 1 point). One hard cooked egg mashed with 1 tsp of mayo & some mustard is another 3. I package the egg in tupperware until I make the sandwich, so that the bread doesn't get mushy. You could keep a small cooler with some of your favorites in it.

As for restaurants - many will make half-size portions if you ask. Jeff and I sometimes order one entree and share it, along with a side salad for each of us. It cuts down on the calories, with the added benefit of being easier on the wallet. I was raised in a household where one was REQUIRED to clean one's plate (there are starving children in africa after all, though it was never entirely clear to me how my uneaten scraps would make their way to africa...) That's stayed with me my whole life, to the point where it's very hard for me to leave food on my plate. If I share, though, the plate gets cleaned and I have no guilt. ;)

With all that's going on in your life for the next few weeks, perhaps a goal of simply maintaining is what you might aim for. That way, you can partake in festivities without any guilt, and have a better time.

Enjoy your trip, and let us know how it goes!

Susan

[3for3]

Thank you Susan! Maybe I'll work at losing what I can this week, while I'm at home and then aim to maintain until the end of the year. I like the sharing entrees idea. I also find that I end up eating more just because it is in front of me when I am out to eat and I feel guilty leaving so much food! I went through a phase where I was really good about only eating until I was comfortably full and it was much easier to lose weight! I find that when I'm eating out, or am eating at other people's houses I tend to feel I need to eat more. I'm just going to go and enjoy myself, but remember to stop when I am full and try to take smaller portions to begin with. Pre-portioned snacks are also good. Otherwise it's easy to just keep munching. Even if it's a healthy snack...eating too much can really pile on the calories! Thanks everyone!

[Susan Otcenas]

Anyone read this article about Oprah inthe Chicago Sun Times? http://www.suntimes.com/lifestyles/wiser/1322626,CST-FTR-Oprah10.article I was thinking today about how much weight she's gained and lost in her lifetime. She went from 142 pounds in 1988 to 237 in the early 90's. Back down and then up to over 200 now. My first thought was "Wow, after losing so much weight, I'd never let myself put all that back on again. " But then I realized I've pretty much done the same thing, on a smaller/longer scale. In my early 20's I dropped 30 pounds over a 3 year period. At 25 I was 133 pounds and looked great. And now, here I am at 39, having hit a new high this year a little over 165 (I can't remember exactly how much higher, though I think I might have hit 167 sometime earlier this year.)

I'm working my butt off and as of this morning am down to 154. I truly believe I can make my ultimate goal of 130. That would make me a healthy, fit size 8. But I wonder where I'll be 5, 10, or 20 years from now. It's a little depressing to think that odds are I won't be 130. SO many people yo-yo their whole lives. Even in my own family, I've watched one of my sisters gain and lose 50-60 pounds multiple times. My mom has done the same and is quite over-weight. Probably 50-60 pounds right now.

So, I wonder... what is the key to KEEPING it off? How do we not let ourselves fall into old, destructive habits once we hit our goals?

Susan

[Possegal]

I joke that I've lost the same 25 lbs about 15 times. :) I do relate! Though this last time, ie last ten years, it was more than that because of a traumatic knee injury and then surgery. That led to me gaining 50, of which I've lost maybe 10 over and over. So now, I really need to drop 30-40. I want to believe that if I could get back to my 'fighting weight', I may again have 20 that goes up and down, but dear GOD, hopefully not the whole 50. ;)

I do often think - if I had Oprah's resources, ie money to afford a personal trainer and personal chef, maybe I'd be under better control. But who knows, maybe not.

[Grits]

I have been baking and sampling way too many Christmas cookies. I promise to weigh again this Friday. Let's just optimistically say I have maintained.

[Lori81295]

145 .....whoop whoop.....any weight loss in December is great....no matter how small

[3for3]

126.8 At least I'm down a little from last week. :)

[Aggie_Ama]

147 I was down to 145.5 before my period arrived yesterday and now I feel like I weigh about 40 lbs heavier. Ugh. I only get one or two awful periods a year, why now?

[Susan Otcenas]

153.5. 11.5 pounds in 5.5 weeks puts me right at 2 pounds per week.

In some ways this has been harder than I expected, and in other ways easier than I expected.

Harder in that I've had to completely re-orient my eating habits. I've never been very good about always ensuring lots of veggies in my diet, and this has forced me to do that. Plus lots of whole grains instead of white flour items, brown rice instead of white, etc.

But it's been easier than I expected in that it's actually working ("it" being the combination of the new eating habits, with my renewed exercise regimen), and I guess I'm a little surprised. My weight has always been a struggle. So, the last 5.5 weeks have been very motivational for me, and given me confidence that I can get to where I want to be.

[Mistie]

146!

[Over50Newbie]

141.8

Exercise is "spot on" but holiday eating is getting in the way. I know that I have to be good in both areas to lose weight.

Lynette

[solobiker]

still in at 151. It has been hard as the in-laws are in town and have been staying with us. Once the holidays are over it will be easier...I hope:D

[squirrell]

Ugh--where to start...

Well, I haven't been on much recently. I've been swamped with Church Christmas preparations and taking care of my old dog, Emily, who become very ill with her cancer. We finally had her put to sleep Thursday morning. It broke my heart. I've had her since 1993 and even though I've lost dogs before, it doesn't get easier. I cried for most of the last 2 days. I'm glad we got the new puppy in October, as having her to come home to really helped. I don't know if I could have handled coming home to a "dogless" house. I've pretty much had at least one dog since I was 10 (now 46), so I don't really remember what it's like to not have a "fur-kid."

I had gotten to 202 but the last couple weeks or so have just been really blowing it. The emotions over knowing I was on the verge of losing my old dog were just too much, and I couldn't focus on the diet/exercise for a bit.

I'm still not ready to go back to focusing on it. Still so much going on--work-wise and emotion wise. We're having to eat out a lot because of schedules and numerous church events involving food.

So, I'm taking a break I think through Christmas and then start fresh. I'm trying to watch what I eat but have gained 2 pounds back in the last 2 weeks. Not good I know but too much else happening right now.

Anyway, I'll be back around steady and on the weight loss track after the Christmas 'rush" season is over and things settle down a bit.

[firenze11]

Sorry I'm so late. I'll have to go back and read through the thread after this. I'm finally home from school. This week it looks like I'm waaaaay up to 137 and last week I was 132.6. I guess I can't just come home and eat whatever I want huh?

I'll have to start watching what I'm eating better. It's kind of funny how much better I feel when I eat smaller, more reasonable portions. I just let myself eat what I wanted this week and I've been feeling bloated and sluggish.

I hope everyone has been doing better than I have!

[jesvetmed]

SQUIRREL: I'm so sorry about your Emily. What an awful time to go through that. I hope you are feeling better soon -- so many years of great memories, I'm sure. Take care, take the break and try to enjoy all of this holiday stuff -- that IS what it is meant for. Hard to believe that sometimes, huh?

Yesterday 172.4 for me. SLightly down, which at this point is excellent. I'll keep working at it. If I can get through NY's without gaining another 5, I'll consider this good...:rolleyes:

[Grits]

I did finally make myself get on the scales, and it was 140. Not too bad, considering.

[Mistie]

148, possibly PMS (I am hoping!)

[Lori81295]

145....holding steady this week

[jesvetmed]

173.4 Fudge and PMS. Not a good combo. And too much snow to run or bike outside. :(

[Over50Newbie]

Yeah, I know what you mean, JESVETMED! :(

144.4 - and I feel YUCKY!

Fat and Bloated! :mad:

Lynette

[solobiker]

still at 151. PMS for me here too plus a stomach bug is going around at work so I have been feeling pretty tired and achy over the last few days.:(

[kjay]

No change this or last week. A special friend passed away a few days ago and my heart isn't in much of anything right now, but I'll get back into the swing of things again; if not this year, next for sure.

[Possegal]

i'm really sorry about your friend kjay. do what you need to just to get through it, exercise and healthy eating are always there waiting for us.

i'm fighting some serious blues these days so having some trouble caring much about anything right now and even though i know getting back into exercising always makes me feel better, i've yet to cross over that line and actually do it. instead, i wallow some more.

keep the weights coming, i'm updating as you post.

http://spreadsheets.google.com/ccc?key=pgzHGysK_DX4MK8A4CgfyVg&hl=en

[Mistie]

I just looked at the spreadsheet with everyone's changes for the week. WOW! You are doing great. What's your secret???!!!
Mistie

[Susan Otcenas]

I just looked at the spreadsheet with everyone's changes for the week. WOW! You are doing great. What's your secret???!!!
Mistie


Thanks. :) I started doing Weight Watchers on 11/5, and it really seems to be working for me. I have been scrupulous about recording everything in the online planner, and I've been getting a fair bit of exercise. That combination seems to be working.

I'm out of town right now, so I wasn't able to weigh in on Friday. On Weds I was still 153.5, so Possegal, can you use that as my Friday weight?

Right now we are in Arizona, which is experiencing much more pleasant weather than Oregon at the moment. It's been great for my exercise program! I went for a run yesterday morning, followed by a 2.5 hour hike with Jeff and his brother John. This morning, we went on a 1.5 hour mountain bike ride with both of Jeff's brothers. Usually I find it hard to get enough exercise on vacations that involve family, but this has been great so far.

For the first time since I started WW, I'm not recording my WW points while I'm away (4 days totoal). At home, I log on after each meal, but here it's much more difficult to do that. So, I'm just being really careful about small, healthy portions, and keeping the treats to an absolute minimum. I 'm hoping I get home on Monday and see that the scale shows continued progress (or, at the very least, no gain.)

Susan

[kjay]

Thanks for writing about your success, Susan. Arizona sounds wonderful in the winter. I'm in the SF Bay area and would LOVE to find a somewhat easy ride for a week in a warmer climate. Last year I rode in Death Valley for a week, but with a tour group, it's somewhat expensive.

Anyway, it was good to hear about all the exercise you're getting and about WW, too.

[Possegal]

Will do Susan, added in your Wednesday weight for you.

I love the sound of your family holiday! I know what you mean about finding it hard to workout during family visits, but you sound like you have a lot of active folks in the family, so that helps. Winter time is tough for me, but come spring I'm looking forward to being able to ride with my brother in law when I'm back in Pittsburgh. He started riding again last summer after a couple years off due to a bad accident. He got back on the bike to join us in the Livestrong challenge, especially since he's married to the sister that has cancer and we ride for her. Now he loves his bike again, he just won't ride to commute or on the roads, we go to the local parks, which in Pittsburgh are very hilly and quite the workout! I can ride with my other sister and her husband in Philly too, so I'm planning on that. I just have to find a way through the winter.

I just went to the local pool and swam for 45 minutes. Since I've not done that since grad school, many years ago, it was a lot for me to manage and I'm proud of myself for going. Now I just have to keep it up and work up to longer workouts.

I'll weigh in on Monday. I'm in this "fitness challenge" with my sister and 4 of my friends and we weigh on Mondays, so I try to keep it to once a week.

[GrooverBrisbane]

Oh crap, I got so busy racing and working that I haven't been back here for the weigh-in. I also have been avoiding the scales big time but just made myself hop on. Back to 126.5! :eek:

No Christmas pudding for me, oh dear! :(

[Aggie_Ama]

146.5. Have been slakcing on WW but pretty happy around this weight. My ultimate goal is 130-135 so I will be working hard come New Year. This week it is cookie time!!! :o

[surgtech1956]

Those of you on WW how do you manage to be so diligent about recording everything? I don't have a problem at home, but at work its kind of hard to, unless I just use a very small notebook. I have a couple of small pockets in my scrubs and don't like to leave anything laying around in the lounge/lunch room.

[Susan Otcenas]

Those of you on WW how do you manage to be so diligent about recording everything?

I work in front of a computer most of the day, so after I eat something, I just pop open the screen online and record it before I go back to work. At home I have a laptop in the living room, and often bring it in to the kitchen to calculate the points as I'm cooking. I realize this probably sounds like overkill to many people, but i *really* like the discipline. It's very black and white. I either have points remaining, or I don't. If there aren't any points left, I stop.

One other thing I've found helpful is to use the points tracker as a PLANNER. If you take your meals to work, or know what you expect to eat, you can put it all into the tracker in the morning. Edit in the evening if you ate more or less of something than you'd planned.

Susan

[Susan Otcenas]

I just went to the local pool and swam for 45 minutes. Since I've not done that since grad school, many years ago, it was a lot for me to manage and I'm proud of myself for going. Now I just have to keep it up and work up to longer workouts.

Good for you!! You *should* be proud of yourself. :)

I need to start swimming again too. I have two tris planned next year (one in May that I do every year, and a longer one in the summer). Unfortunately, I'm a lousy swimmer, so it's so hard for me to get motivated to go. Swimming is a great workout, though - I'm always beat (and really hungry!) after a workout.

[Susan Otcenas]

I 'm hoping I get home on Monday and see that the scale shows continued progress (or, at the very least, no gain.)


Today is my WW weigh day. Last Weds I was 153.5, today 153.0. Soooo, looks like I didn't totally sabotage myself over the weekend in Phoenix/Tucson. I was a bit worried on Saturday evening, as the whole family spent many hours building "gingerbread" houses (in reality, the various houses were made from gingerbread, graham crackers and pretzel sticks) and I found myself snacking on the various decorative candies. But, it looks like I managed to essentially maintain, so I'm pretty pleased with that.

Next big challenge is tomorrow. We're having dinner with friends. Should be a very healthy meal with a roast turkey and LOTS of veggie sides. It's the noshing that is usually my downfall - cheese & crackers, chips, smoked salmon...... Mmmmmmm.

Susan

[firenze11]

I'm really really late posting again but it's hard with family around and presents to buy/wrap. My weight for last Friday was 137. I still feel pretty bloated, it will be nice when the holidays are over and I see what actually sticks.

Hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season. I'm going to try not to be late posting again this week.

[Susan Otcenas]

Wonder of wonders. 152 today.

On Wednesday I decided to treat myself to a new pair of jeans, one size smaller than the ones I'm wearing now. I haven't received them in the mail yet, but I hope they fit!! My current pair in this style has started to get too baggy. :)

I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday week. And that you treated yourself to some holiday yummies. Jeff makes the most wonderful apple pie, and there was no way I was denying myself a (small) piece of that yesterday!

Susan

[Grits]

Holding steady at 140.

I wish you could see me, here, sitting on my couch eating an orange when I have a kitchen full of high calorie, delicious goodies just a few steps away. I amaze myself with my will power :rolleyes:

That is because I am now SERIOUS. You should see the resolve in my eyes. I wasn't really serious before. That is why I have basically stayed the same since summer, but that is all going to change. I am motivated to shed some weight since that will be considerably less expensive coming off of me instead of off of my bike.

That will improve my riding and make the pictures of me that they take on all those charity rides and post online be less fluffy. My new jersey will also fit better with a little less tummy to stretch over. Christmas is now over. I am not waiting until New Years. I don't have a lot to lose, but 4 or 5 pounds will make a huge difference in how my clothes fit and how I feel. It has been a great and delicious Christmas, but now it is time to start back to healthy eating! (AND I went to the gym today!)

[Aggie_Ama]

Down to 144.5 this morning. I really didn't over indulge at Christmas but did enjoy the baked yummies. Can't get into the 2 size smaller pants my mom bought but they zip. My thighs are just a tad heavy. Can't decide if I want to exchange, I think I will wait a couple of weeks because I am running more and the scale in moving down.

[Susan Otcenas]

Grits - your renewed determination is inspiring! Thanks for sharing!

When I was coming home from the gym this morning, crunching on a granny smith apple, I too was fantasizing about all the yummy leftovers I have in my kitchen from yesterday's meal.

Aggie Ama - I've never been much of a runner, but each winter I start up again to prepare for a Spring Tri that I do. It amazes me how much work running is, and how it can help the pounds melt off. A good friend of mine ran the Portland marathon this fall. I saw her right after the event, after not getting together with her for a few months, and was astonished at how slim she'd become. She told me that if I wanted to lose weight, I should train to run Portland next year. I politely declined. :D Nonetheless, I do want to work up to a 10K by June, and hope all the run training I'm doing will make me look as good as she does!

Susan

[solobiker]

still hanging in at 151. I guess that is better then going up. Next year will be my year for the weight loss:D

[Mistie]

Key lime pie.....it's really my biggest downfall during the holidays. I just can not say no to it. It calls me from the other end of my mom's house...."Mistie, aren't you hungry for something limlicious?!" Well, I have had many pieces and soon it will be gone and will no longer call to me from the basement refrig. My hearing is going EXCEPT when KL Pie calls to me.

[kjay]

Not sure what my numbers have been in the past, but I think I'm back to where I started, which is 185. I feel more motivation coming on, though. :D

[jesvetmed]

173.4. AGAIN. Which, considering the junk I ate this week, is a blessing.
I'm with GRITS. DETERMINATION is the word for the new year! OK.. after January 3rd, which is when we actually celebrate Christmas at the in-laws. Big Feast.

THEN... DETERMINATION!:rolleyes:

[Grits]

A balmy 70 degrees in NC today! Can you believe it? I put on a pair of my new socks for inspiration and motivation and actually went for a ride - for the first time since late Oct. A little breezy, but it was great. I am trying to formally excercise - either ride or go to the gym- 5 days out of the week. I am also upping my cardio time by 10 minutes at the gym making it 40 min. plus a cool down. I have basically cut out sweets, with a few necessary exceptions, and bread (except for some good whole grains). I am only weighing on Fridays because I tend to sabatoge myself when I see I have lost weight. Here's hoping for dietary success for all of us for 2009!

[Over50Newbie]

Hi Guys,

I am out of town on vacation, so please just put my weight down as the same as last week.

I will be back home by Wednesday, so I will weight in on the last day of this year.

But by the way my clothes are fitting right now, I don't expect it to be good news. :rolleyes:

Lynette

[Susan Otcenas]

On Wednesday I decided to treat myself to a new pair of jeans, one size smaller than the ones I'm wearing now. I haven't received them in the mail yet, but I hope they fit!! My current pair in this style has started to get too baggy. :)

They fit! They fit!! Needless to say, I'm ecstatic. It's been soooooo long since I've bought a pair of smaller jeans. I was last this size in 2003 - 5 years ago! :eek: Where has the time gone??

Jeff & I have decided to go contra dancing with friends for New Year's Eve. I don't know a thing about contra dancing, but they have lessons for newbies. I wonder if they'll have a spare right foot to replace the 2nd left foot I have?? ;) I figure it's a good way to burn off the food and drink that will be consumed and keep me on track....


Susan

[tulip]

I have rediscovered Angel Food cake...very low fat and satisfies my sweet tooth. Even better with fresh (or frozen this time of year) berries. Just thought I'd pass that along.

I had a sit-down talk with my parents a month or so ago...they are very sedentary and overweight and I'm worried about them. I told them that I want them around for as long as possible, and that in order for them to do that they need to take as good care of themselves as they possibly can. They may well be taking it to heart; my dad's already lost 8 lbs (most because he got quite sick for a few days), but he's motivated. My stepmother SAYS she's motivated but I'll wait for actions. Based on everyone's good experience here with WW, I might suggest that to them.

Happy New Year everyone!

[Aggie_Ama]

Congrats Susan! Enjoy dancing, I have no clue what type that is but should be fun.

Tulip- and some light cool whip! Angel food, a few berries and fat free cool whip are a really low point treat for the WW clan or just one not to feel guilty about for anyone. Unless you have trouble not eating a whole tub of cool whip like me. :p

I was holding steady last night when I felt the urge to weigh, lets see how tomorrow looks. Stress from the oh-so-sick puppy and the rather large bill associated with it really kills my appetite.

[tulip]

I don't like cool whip, but I do light vanilla yogurt with it. Yum.

I hope the pup and all works out for the best.

Contra dancing is kindof like square dancing, I think. Very cool. I'm determined to get alot better at Latin dancing in 2009. I love it, and now I have a dancing partner.

[Susan Otcenas]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Contra_dance Sounds like fun! Although it says that in North America dancers are encouraged to change partners with every dance. That part I don't like. I like dancing with Jeff because he knows my limitations!

Tulip, I wish I had the talent for Latin. Jeff can dance most of those rhythms, but I find I don't have the "hip wiggle" it seems to require. I'm too stiff. I can fake the swing, waltz, foxtrot, etc., but anything beyond that usually finds me making a mess of it. Do you take lessons?

[tulip]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Contra_dance Sounds like fun! Although it says that in North America dancers are encouraged to change partners with every dance. That part I don't like. I like dancing with Jeff because he knows my limitations!

Tulip, I wish I had the talent for Latin. Jeff can dance most of those rhythms, but I find I don't have the "hip wiggle" it seems to require. I'm too stiff. I can fake the swing, waltz, foxtrot, etc., but anything beyond that usually finds me making a mess of it. Do you take lessons?

Maybe it's in my Iberian genes, I don't know, but I my hips just go. I have taken lessons in the past (years ago) and I think I will either take more lessons or just go dancing with my SO. He's such a good dancer (but no Iberia in him!).

[Susan Otcenas]

Year end "official" weight = 150.5.

Happy New Year everyone!!

Susan

[Grits]

[QUOTE=Susan Otcenas;392072]Year end "official" weight = 150.5.

You go girl! Way to end the year!

[Aggie_Ama]

Year End Weight: 145.

Not my goal but I am down a bit. With only 10 lbs left I want to lose I guess I should expect a slow down. I felt super fabulous at 130-135 so the upper end is my ultimate goal.

I did just get Sonic on the way home from the vet. :o Starting Friday cooking at home and eating better. Plus running. I may have sold my commuter bike (it just was a horrible fit and I hated it) but I think I may do the backpack commute thing home next week. I think I will just handle my 28 mile commute home on my Cannondale until I can get a Bike Friday. :p What does this have to do with this thread? Happy New Year everyone!

[Over50Newbie]

Final Year-End Weight: 143.4

I am finding that kinda funny - it is the EXACT weight that I started at!!

Here's to weight loss in 2009!!

Lynette

[Susan Otcenas]

Jeff & I went contra dancing last night, as planned. We met our friend Amy there, who gave us a little mini pre-lesson lesson. Then they had a lesson for the clueless folks like me, and taught us the basics. The caller was very patient, and very clear. The first two dances I did alright, managing not to screw up very much, but after that the dances got more complex and the rhythms got faster. By the end of the 4th dance, I was struggling. Fortunately I had a very understanding partner for that one! :o

Eventually I got blisters from my shoes :( and decided it was time for me to become an observer. It was alot of fun to watch - there was an elevated area at the back of the room, so I could observe everyone spinning and twirling. It was great to see Jeff having such a good time. He danced for 3 hours. He used to dance quite alot before we met, but fell out of it in recent years.

Great exercise too! Weightwatchers gives 3 activity points per hour of dancing. Jeff thinks we should do this once a month or so, so perhaps I'll add it to my weight loss plan for the new year...

Hope everyone had fun last night!

Susan