Wedding Weighdown!

Walk Change

2008-09-13T05:02:00.001-07:00

walk postponed till Sunday @ 2 pm!

Walk Scheduled - You In?

2008-09-12T17:07:00.001-07:00

We are meeting tomorrow at Turning Point park to walk. 10:00 am.

Nicky will call me tonight to confirm but so far it's her, Mary & I.

Anyone else up for a walk? Turning Point is a very cool park off Lake ave. towards the Charlotte area. Nice trails, waterfalls, etc.

C'mon slugs. Summer is winding down and we should get out & enjoy what's left of it!

Walk Anyone?

2008-09-10T05:30:00.000-07:00

Who's up for a walk this weekend? Maybe we can do that Turning Point hike before the weather turns. Either day works for me. Maybe the dogs would all like to get together and walk with us!

This pic is of the falls there!

We're Back....!

2008-09-09T05:42:00.000-07:00

Nicky suggested we keep this blog going and it sounds like a good idea to me! She just joined Weight Watchers so maybe she can share some tips and motivation with us.

I've also embarked on my own personal challenge which so far has netted me a 7 pound loss.

Here's what I've been doing:

Each week I incorporate a new challenge - one that I can live with and make a part of my life.

The first week I decided to ban all fast food. I was a fast food junkie so I figured this would be a real challenge but so far it hasn't.

The second week I challenged myself to drink 64 oz. of water every day. (and by the way - these challenges build upon each other - they don't just last one week.)

Week three I took up the smaller plate challenge - which means I use a smaller plate at dinner. It cuts down on the portion size with out you really noticing it.

The fourth week (and this has been the most difficult challenge so far) is to eat at least 4 servings of fruits/vegetables every day.

Week five I decided to "move" more. Park farther - take the stairs instead of the elevator, run in place or lift weights during commercials... I have to remind myself of this because it's easy to forget.

This week I formed my own "DON'T clean your plate" club. Which means always try to leave something on your plate after each meal. It may seem like a waste - but if you eat it and you're not hungry - it's still a waste (on your waist!)

Before the cool weather gets here - maybe we should try to get in a few more walks. I'm game if he rest of you are!

Checking In............

2008-07-14T05:43:00.001-07:00

It's been a while...but since Paula said let's keep the blog up - for motivation and *ahem* accountability - I'm game.

I didn't wear a swimsuit at Keuka - didn't make that goal - and I haven't in fact worn one yet this summer. I also have only run once in the past several weeks - with Becky at the cottage. I plan on running today. Gotta' get back into it or I'll quit for sure.

I haven't been drinking my water like I used to (in school I carried my big bottle everywhere). I've also abandoned the little plate theory which I plan to resurrect again today. I know it helped.

I really haven't been snacking much believe it or not. But drinking beer doesn't help and if you think about the calories - just 4 lite beers has over 400 calories - so I'm crossing beer off my list for a while. That should make a little dent.

I have the Core List from Weight Watchers that Terri gave me - but I have a hard time staying to a list. I'm going to give it a shot though and try to write down everything I eat. I read an article yesterday that said a study showed that people who keep a food journal lose 50% more weight than those who don't. Makes sense. I've always been part of the "if I don't write it down I didn't eat it " club. Kind of like the "if someone eats it with you you cancel each other's calories out" theory.

How's everyone else doing?

Blah.............

2008-06-26T06:23:00.000-07:00

I didn't run this week. Austin being sick threw me off. I was all geared up to go Tuesday & have Mike watch him but he had an appt. with a customer and had to leave. I tossed Austin in the stroller and took him for a 2 mile walk. i tried to run with the stroller (one handed) but it was awkward. I ended up running about 1/4 of a mile but that was all.

I am going to try today. I feel so freaking fat that I can't stand it. I look like I'm 6 months pregnant. My mojo is waning big time.

How's everyone else doing?

Chekcing In....

2008-06-23T06:19:00.000-07:00

It sounds like we've all been on an upward swing since the wedding. I think Nicky's idea about a 5k is great! We could do it! (but a Marathon????) Don't think so Nicky!

I know for me - I've been lazy about making healthy recipes. I tend to grab what's available which isn't always what's best for me. It's much easier when I'm working...I am in control of what I bring for lunch. When I'm home...it's a different story.

I'm losing my motivation to run - mainly because in spite of the effort I'm not getting the rewards I've wanted. But I'm not going to give up yet. I need to do something every day. Maybe I'll walk on the days I don't run and eventually run every day. It's just so hard to do something alone. There's no accountability....no one to say "C'mon! Get off your duff" when you don't feel like doing it.

For sure - let's plan a good walk while we're at Keuka. (Speaking of which....has anyone told Craig & Debbie we're not coming?") Becky & Nate aer going to the lake this Friday to spend a week there (and go visit his grandparents while they're there at Waneta Lake.) We're coming down Thursday and Yellie & Dan are coming Thursday night or Friday morning. Friday are the fireworks at our lake and I'm assuming we're having the Birthday Bash on Saturday, right?

Gotta' run for now. Austin is home today puking. It was a fun night. Lots of laundry to do as a result.....

Happy Thursday....

2008-06-19T05:22:00.000-07:00

Well I didn't do so hot Monday with the running. After 13 minutes I decided to walk 3 the I ran another 7. I was dragging for some reason. It was the first time I gave in and walked. Yesterday I did 21 minutes straight and I was fine. I guess Monday was just one of those days...

So I'm doing my weight lifting - exercising 3 times a week with the running and eating less than normal (not always wise choices but less) and I've gained 2 pounds. This sucks.

I will say that my body feels tighter and I know the other benefits I'm getting from the running and weights are still worth it as far as my heart and lungs go. So I'm in this for the long haul. But still.....I thought I'd be losing by now. I guess I should aim to exercise on the off days too. I just don't feel like running every day. Maybe I'll walk on the days I don't run. or do that weird Gazelle thing Mike bought me.

Nicky - you should check out the Healthy Girl link on the blog here and subscribe to it. It has great recipes for everything under the sun and how to make them good for you. There's a cookbook too that just came out that I may get. You should check that out too - and then you can make great meals for your new hubby that are tasty and not loaded with calories and fat. (not that Raphe needs to watch his weight!)

How is everyone else doing? Anyone up for a walk this weekend?

Monday ~ a new week....

2008-06-16T11:57:00.001-07:00

Sounds like everyone is still hanging in there. Welcome back from the honeymoon Nicky! (I didn't forget your gift...I get it over to you soon!)

Has everyone recovered from Wedding let-down? We need something new to look forward to now!

I supposed to run 25 minutes straight 3 days this week according to my Cto5k schedule. I'm aiming for 20 today - 21 Wed. and 22 Thursday. Rome wasn't built in a day you know.....

Mary - when you did your running - how far/long did you run and how often? My goal is to actually run a 5k (3.3 miles) eventually - but for exercise to run 2 miles daily. So far I haven't crapped out on this which amazes me - especially since I'm not seeing the results I was hoping for. But the fact that I can do it and not be out of breath is enough to keep me going. My body is at the stage where it's ready to let me down if I don't keep at it.

I have a phone interview tomorrow afternoon with a Charter School (True North prep School). Say a prayer that maybe this one will decide to hire me!

Okay - gotta go run. Stay cool!

Checking in on my fellow hogettes....

2008-06-14T11:34:00.000-07:00

I ran 20 minutes straight - no stopping today - in the rain! 20 minutes is a big accomplishment for me - the person who hated to run and swore she would never ever take it up as a form of exercise!

The cool thin is - this Cto5k thing has helped me condition my heart and lungs so that I'm able to do it, not once- since I started this ting have I had a stitch in my side. used to be I' get really out of breath and pant and gasp when I stopped. Now I breathe fine and am not really out of breath when I stop - I just sweat like a pig.

I wish the scale would budge more though...I guess I need to work on the eating more.

How is everyone else doing? Anyone want to schedule a weekend walk for one of these days?

Hanging in there.....

2008-06-11T13:24:00.001-07:00

Okay - we'll keep things going here to keep us motivated for the Keuka Dock unveiling.

I did NOT want to run yesterday - thought of every reason why I couldn't ( shouldn't...wouldn't) but in the end I sucked it up and did it. I wish I was seeing results faster. One would thing that since I'm exercising more than I have in a very long time - the pounds would be moving downward. I'm eating less too. Albeit - not a LOT less...but still less.

It's frustrating. I looked at pics of myself from the wedding and wanted to vomit.

I'm hanging in there though.

There's got to be a morning after....

2008-06-08T05:53:00.000-07:00

Well, Nicky & Raphe are off on thier honeymoon , Mary & Andy will be off on thier own get-away and the rest of us are left here to undo the damage done over the weekend to our waistlines!

I need to run today and I SO don't want to do it. But I will *sigh*

Great party Mary - we had lots of fun!

Who wants to keep the blog up to inspire us fro Keuka?

Nicky changes her name today!!!!!!

2008-06-07T07:59:00.000-07:00

This is it! Nicky & Raphe's wedding day ~ June 7th, 2008! We may not be the skinny chicks we envisioned ourselves to be but we'll still have the time of our lives!

Nicky will be absolutely stunning - the mother of the bride will look elegant and the aunts will steal the show! Just kidding Nicky! You'll be the star and we'll all be glowing with happiness for you as you start your new life with your new hubby!

I'm sending out a prayer that Brianna feels great today with no throw-ups during the ceremony!

Not that anyone is reading this today anyway - we're all busy getting ready! But check bak and I'll post some photos after the big event!

Yippee! It's a wedding!!!!!!!!!

One More Day!!!!

2008-06-06T03:56:00.000-07:00

Okay - we have about 24 hours to lose that weight we said we'd lose back in April. Man are we pathetic! (Except Nicky - she did good - but her incentive was much greater than ours!)

So one more day!

Can't you hear the music.... "I'm getting married in the morning! Ding dong the bells are gonna' ring...!"

So tomorrow my Cto5k schedule says I must run 20 minutes straight. I can tell you right now - ain't gonna' happen. I'm going to run - but repeat the 2 - 8 minute runs. No freaking way I'm ready to run 20 minutes without stopping especially because it's going to be so hot besides.

So I'll see you all tonight!

Isn't this fun!!!

Three More Days!!!

2008-06-04T05:29:00.001-07:00

Three more days and my scale is not budging. In fact...it actually went up! And I'm exercising (doing my cto5k religiously and it's getting increasingly more demanding) and eating less. okay - not a whole lot less - but less.

In any event - I'm not giving up because even after the wedding I have the whole summer to face and I like Nicky's thoughts about keeping this up. It's not that long till we'll all be at Keuka on that dock. Will we wear our suits or not?

As for the wedding - is the Neusatz-Fazio house getting in frenzy mode yet? This is when it gets really exciting! (Enjoy the anticipation - it's as much fun as the real event sometimes!) In the next three days the final payment is made to the party hall....tuxes are picked up....some gifts will arrive...clothes are laid out and it all becomes real! Nothing is more exciting than a wedding!!

Now you've ordered diet food for the rehearsal dinner right Mary? (NOT!) All bets are off this weekend!

It's Almost Here!

2008-06-03T03:21:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it? Four days! This is so exciting! I love family weddings....they bring memories back of all of our family weddings when everyone looked forward to the big day and counted down.

Nicky & Mary - it will go by SO fast! We planned for so long for the girls' double wedding and it was over in the blink of an eye! Enjoy EVERY minute of the day!

I guess we won't all be as skinny as we wanted to be - (although Nicky met her goal!) but at least we jump started this thing. I'm still doing my Cto5k and don't plan on stopping!

Keep at it ladies!

Day Whatever....

2008-06-02T05:48:00.001-07:00

I don't know what the official countdown day is but I DO know there are only 5 days to the wedding! It looked like everyone was doing really well on their diets this weekend at the bachelorette party ~ NOT! (myself included...)

A chocolate fountain...fish fries and onion rings...yikes! But I think we burned a lot of it off dancing! (or at least laughing!)

"I ate food with my mouth today. It worked really well..." I have never laughed so freaking hard! WE HAVE to get that on you-tube!

I actually did my run when I got home - as tired as I was. I was feeling good about my progress until I saw those videos. So I'm more determined than ever to keep at this.

Nicky...I'll send a pic of the flowers tonight or tomorrow.

btw...did anyone show up at Tracey's yesterday? I just got the correction e-mail. Good thing I didn't let Rachel & Curtis go!

Okay - stay at it ladies. We can all make a little dent in the next 5 days. (right?)

Day Sixty Five....

2008-05-29T03:46:00.000-07:00

Okay - is Fat --r Paula??? We're all confused here.

Too bad Nicky has Mary to rat on her! Glad no one is here watching me 24/7!

I did my Cto5k yesterday. I sure hope this running stuff is the key to weight loss. I've been faithful to the letter on this. (not so much on the eating though....)

Gotta run to work - just wanted to check in.

Day Sixty Three...

2008-05-27T17:38:00.001-07:00

I'm back! We spent an extra night - couldn't resist.

I did really good with my running - Becky came with me and kept me going.

Even though I ate some junk - I didn't over do it and with all the walking and the 2 running workouts - I actually lost a pound!

Mary - why don't you exchange the dress for the next size up. It's better you feel comfortable all night! If it's too snug you'll be self-conscious. The carb diet may work - but from what I've read it's mainly water loss the first week.

Don't forget all - Mike thinks that the Bachelorette party has been changed to be at his house on Friday in case you talk to him.

I'll write more tomorrow. I'm still unpacking & doing laundry.

And did I Mention Mike's mom is driving me crazy over this party????

Day Fifty Eight....

2008-05-22T04:09:00.000-07:00

I won't be checking in again till Monday night. Heading to the lake today.

Try not to stuff yourselves (me included!)

Get in some exercise wherever you.

(Yesterday I fit into a pair of pants I haven't worn in a year.) Wow...I'm fitting into my old fat clothes now.) It's a start.

Day Fifty Seven....

2008-05-21T13:21:00.000-07:00

Is it day 57 or m I confused? Whatever - it's coming up fast!

Looks like we're not walking this week. We're headed down to the lake for the weekend - kids are all coming (except Yellie & Dan) so I'm happy to get them all there plus Mike!

I did my Cto5K this morning and polished off the 3 minute runs again. I was so worried about them. But Monday starts the 5 minutes runs. Now those I'm afraid of! I'll be doing the first one at the lake and am making Becky come with me. She'll probably leave me in her dust....

I'm officially down 5 pounds now. Fifty seven days to make 5 pounds. Woopdeedoo....

But I can tell the exercise is working and I'm feeling optimistic about all this. Maybe I WILL wear a bathing suit at Keuka on the 4th. Speaking of which...Aunt June tried to make me feel really guilty about not coming to the wedding thing that weekend..... Did she talk to any of you guys?

How are the rest of the troops doing? Out there hitting the pavement? Fat melting right off of your puckery little thighs? Anyone else get their girdle thingy that Mary & Nicky are raving about? (Susie...whose car are you taking your off in this time?)

Okay guys - less than 3 weeks! Let's ROLL! (and Nicky....you made a mispell when you said 15 POUNDS by the wedding right?)

Day Fifty Five......

2008-05-19T12:49:00.001-07:00

I started week 3 of Cto5k. And I did it! Granted the longest runs were only 3 minutes long - but I still did it with out stopping and even ran an extra segment at the end.

The eating had been a little better too. I think doing the exercise make you more aware of your body & what you put into it. Not that I'm perfect! But at least I feel I may be turning a corner here.

Susie - you'll be happy to see I logged your correct weight tee hee!

Paula - wish I knew you had all that fruit salad left over - I'd have traded you for the gigantic load of past I brought home! At least your left overs are healthier than mine!

I had my southwest chicken salad today and it was yummy. LOVE those things!

Nicky - hope you're feeling better. Ea what the Dr. said and take it easy on the exercise. You DON'T want to be sick for the big day! Which incidentally is coming up really quick!

Let me know about walking this week girls. I'm headed to the cottage either Thursday night or Friday. The kids will join me Friday night (except Yellie & Dan). Mike said he's coming but I'm not holding my breath. He's a workaholic and there's nothing I can do about it.

And yes...in response to the last few comments about dieting being so hard - DITTO! It sucks!

Day Fifty Four.....

2008-05-18T08:00:00.001-07:00

Skipped a few days....sorry! Busy with Yellie being home & the shower. No one here had any blowouts Mary! Did everyone in your house or just you?

I'm on a mission too. Three weeks to go and counting. I'm wearing the dress i wore to Cathy's wedding. Everyone has seen it but I haven't worn it since then and I like it so that's what I'm wearing. And it fits. And will even if I lose some more weight. I'm really trying to get those arms in shape. The muscles are there now -it's the fat covering them that sucks!

I did my Cto5k yesterday. Haven't skipped any days since I started. Next week starts the 3 minute runs. I'm enjoying this more than I thought. I feel so much like I've accomplished something.

Nicky - did you enjoy the shower? We all had fun!

Okay - off to church.

Are we walking this week? Turning Point? let me know!

Day Fifty....

2008-05-14T16:20:00.000-07:00

So Mary & I didn't do the park after all. Busy day. Hope you get better before the shower Nicky!!

Susie - the +15 was just to see if you were paying attention!

I did my Cto5k today. Yay for me!

I want to devour everything in sight though. Good thing I can't find Mike's stash!

I think we're planning on doing the park this weekend. We can discuss it at the shower Friday. I'm teaching till 3:20 but will get to the shelter by 4:30.

Fun Fun Fun!!!

Day Forty Nine.....

2008-05-13T03:46:00.000-07:00

Oops. Forgot to check in yesterday (and no one noticed anyway....)

So - are we walking tonight? I'm planning on it if every one's game. The weather is supposed to be nice and Turning Point Point Park looks awesome.

I started week 2 on Cto5k and upped the running time. It was easy. I love this program! it feels like I'm done in no time at all! I do get pretty sweaty though - which is good - but means I need a shower ASAP after I'm done. yesterday Rachel waked in the house & said "What's that smell?"

It was me.

So let me know about tonight. (The pic is of part of the trail at the park.)

Day Forty Seven....

2008-05-11T19:39:00.000-07:00

Tuesday at Turning Point sounds good. Nicky - you may be cutting it close if you have Bible Study at 7 (?) Let us know. Mary - are you in?

Becky & Nate made a scrumptious brunch for us today and of course I ate too much. Mike's mom gave me 5 nice t-shirts for Mother's Day (I know...wierd...she gives us gifts) that will be great for wearing when I exercise.

You're right Paula - Monday. New day for all of us! I need to get a handle on the eating big time. I feel really bloated right now. Monday I also up my running time on Cto5k. I need to figure out how to download the podcasts to my MP3 player.

Okay...I'm going to bed. Let me know about Tuesday guys. Susie...try to make it if you can. The park looks awesome. And Nicky - if you can't make it Tuesday this week - maybe we can go there again!

Night all.

Day Forty Six....

2008-05-10T04:33:00.000-07:00

This is NOT the food pyramid for us anymore.

I'm trying my hardest to eat healthy but every now and then I just need a fix for something fattening and totally bad for me! And then when I eat it - it triggers some kind of monster in me that says EAT MORE!

I've been lax on the smaller pate. And that made a difference. And I ate 3 pieces of pizza last night. Even though I was totally satisfied after 2. I wasn't eating s-l-o-w-l-y. Which also makes a difference. And - I found a stash of Ho-Ho's Mike had hidden. So over the course of the week I ate 2 packages,,,which I didn't want him to know about - so I went out and bought more Ho-Ho's to replace the ones I ate - which left me with my own stash. *sigh*

BUT - I HAVE been good on the exercise! Finished my first week on Cto5K (I actually repeated the first week twice since I had the groin & foot issue which slowed me down and made me skip a day the first week. But I did good and actually am enjoying it! And I'm doing the weights faithfully and throwing in some stomach crunches when I watch TV.

All of which is making me more aware of what I eat. And although that doesn't makes sense considering what I just wrote above...I have made some good choices this week too. Salads for lunch. Lot's more fruit. All whole wheat (even found some 100% whole wheat bagels!)

I know the running will be the key here.

As far as walking today - 5 will be a little late. So let's forget this weekend and shoot for Tuesday. Do you want to meet at Turning Point Park? I checked some websites like you said, Mary, and I think it would be awesome too!

Paula - if you're in I could pick you up & we could ride together. Let me know Ladies.

Happy Mother's Day!

Day Forty Five....

2008-05-09T03:20:00.000-07:00

So are we walking Saturday or Sunday? I'm game for either. Nicky said "let's mix it up a bit". That sounds fun! How about a "hike" somewhere? In a park?

Today is my day to run/walk again on Cto5k. I'm actually looking forward to it! Wish I could drag myself out of bed and do it in the morning but I leave for work at 7 am and I'd have to run at 5:30. Not happening. Besides, I enjoy the sunshine.

I also learned there are several pod casts you can download for free that take you through each week - telling you when to run when to walk....and several have Christian music! How cool! Now I have to figure out how to do that with my MP3 player. I lost the directions....

So decide about walking this weekend. Post TODAY (!) so we know what's going on ladies...

Day Forty Four....

2008-05-08T17:34:00.000-07:00

So what up girls?

Nicky - don't worry about having a bad day. We all do. I think the key is to plan them. Like tell yourself that a certain day - you can eat what yo want. it may help you to push past the insane cravings that plague the woman species.

I'm still plugging away wit my Cto5K. I'm actually looking forward to doing it! How weird is that?? I think we should all strive to run a 5k together. That's only 4 miles. We can do that!

Mary - are you still doing Cto5K?

Susie...home from sin city yet???

Paula....jazzing it up?

Eryn (I mean...Jezebel...how are you doing?)

Rachel....started that walking with Curtis yet?

Debbie...still doing WW?

Nicky....been to Victoria's Secret yet? (don't worry...Raphe will be so happy to finally see you naked - he'll be in awe!)

Okay girls. We need to step this up! I'm dong great with he exercise part. The eating part leaves much to be desired. Although I AM craving more fruits & veggies. That's weird for me!

Okay - signing off.

Day Forty Three....

2008-05-07T11:32:00.000-07:00

I think this is Malcom Lickers...

I ran again today! Did my couch to 5k and also my weights. I've lost 1/2" on my waist. not much - but it's something.

How is everyone else doing? You're all being awful quiet these days....

Comment & let me kow how you've done on the exercise....the eating....yada yada.

Day Forty Two...

2008-05-06T09:55:00.000-07:00

Saturday works for me as far as walking goes. Name the time & place!

(Nicky - your Vacation Bible School stuff is here too. I'll give it to you then.)

Susie - are you back from Vegas yet?

Be sure to check out the side bar for Smooth Illusions under cool places to visit. I'm going out to get one!

I'm out to fiinish mowing the lawn I started yesterday (trimming today.) That should burn off some calories along with the mulch I have to move too. I feel pretty good since my run yesterday. The shoes must've done the trick!

Day Forty One....

2008-05-05T09:51:00.001-07:00

Good walk yesterday! Laurie, Paula, Nicky, Sarah & Austin (in stroller) met at the Ogden-Parma homestead , walked to the village and then back. We stopped at Abbotts' and Austin & Sarah got ice cream (the 2 that can afford the extra calories due to their youth!) The rest of us were good girls and drank our water! Over 5 miles. Not bad!

My new sneakers worked out well! Today I try running in them :-)

Nicky mentioned this new undergarment that she & Mary are in love with. Can either of you send me a link with the prized possession so I can post it here?

Debbie - glad you finally figured out how to do this blog thing!

Happy Monday girls. Small plates...more fruits, veggies and nuts....keep movin'!

Day 40......

2008-05-03T05:07:00.000-07:00

That's not a nipple...it's mole. EEWW!

Okay. It rained for 40 days and 40 nights and then the ark came to a rest. Noah saw a rainbow and docked the boat. or something like that. Anyway - 40 days went by really fast and I think Noah saw a lot more happen than we have these past 6 weeks.

But it's not over yet! I'm going to get my new running shoes today. Found some Asics at Kohls for 1/2 price and I'm going to splurge. If I want to run I can't be wrecking these knees. I did a lot of research and there were two types that were made for me (I'm a supinator - I under-pronate.) How's that for runner's talk?! So anyway - one of the 2 types happens to be on sale at Kohl's. Lucky me!

How about we meet in Spencerport near Slayton place at 1:30 Sunday. We can walk the canal east and then turn around. Same walk Mary & I took last weekend. It was nice.

Nicky - if you're wondering about the flowers - I got some floral tape and will have them done before the wedding! Don't worry - haven't forgotten.

Mary - how's the running?

Paula - still have your cruise tan?

Eryn - you changed your name to Jezebel? What's that all about? Do you know that she was an evil queen in the bible that hated God and all Christians?

Rachel - still passing up those sweets?

Debbie - how's WW going?

Susie - did you win anything in Vegas?

Okay - did my part. Checked in. Running today. See you tomorrow Nicky & Paula?) at Slayton Place - 1:30? Let me know. Don't wimp out! If anything it's fun to walk & talk!

Day Thirty Nine.....

2008-05-02T02:55:00.001-07:00

Mary - it doesn't seem a muscle strain would be in your bladder area and go away in 4 hours. Maybe you should see the Dr. (Now that we're older I am a worry wart!)

I know what you mean about eating. Sometimes my mouth just takes control. Yesterday I was going to walk after school but my car sounded like the from end was going to fall off and I took it straight to my mechanic after school. Mike picked me up and I went over to the new house for a while. Then Rachel showed up and wanted me to color her hair so I never got out there.

Excuses...Excuses.

Tonight I walk/run (Cto5K) no matter what!

Right now gotta get ready for school. I've been in for the same teacher all week. Art, thank goodness!

Running Sunday - where - when - who?

And Mary - the sneaker question. What kind do you have? I know mine aren't good for running. Saw some at Sears on sale made for running.

Day Thirty Eight...

2008-05-01T03:46:00.000-07:00

We have officially crossed the half way mark. This is day thirty eight - and there are 37 days left. For our first goal at least. The wedding. After that it's the Keuka Dock Challenge. (Remember - see who has the guts to drop their towel?)

So we're walking Sunday. Still need to finalize a time.

I finally feel okay enough to resume my Couch to 5 K thing. I guess I'll be starting at square one again since last week was a wash with the groin issue. I have been doing the weights though - I'm actually pink in the face when I'm done and I can feel those muscles on my arms (under the flab.)

This is crunch time ladies. Nicky has been kicking butt. It's only fair that she's the hottie on her big day (But it' be nice if everyone thought she had hot aunties and a buff mom!)

And Mary - I'm inspired! If someone noticed your efforts after only 2 weeks on the Cto5K regime - then I'm more than convinced I want to do this! I need to get some good running shoes. Just can't afford them right now! What do you wear?

Okay - gotta get to work. Keep moving goyls!

Day Thirty Seven....

2008-04-30T03:31:00.001-07:00

Sorry your week was so bad Paula. I'm sure the funerals had something to do with it. I think we're all in the same boat here (except Nicky...shes' young). We bust our butts and nothing happens. I keep telling myself that I'm just going to keep on busting it. Because when I don't...the weight creeps up. Every year I weigh more. So if I don't incorporate some serious lifestyle changes now - I'll be in big trouble down the road.

Right now my knees are killing me from those 2 days I ran. I can't even squat down without pain. And it's all because of this extra lard I'm carrying around. My little frame wasn't designed to lug around an extra 50 pounds! That's like 5 freaking bowling bowls!

Since Paula can't walk Saturday - let's shoot for Sunday after church. After we know who's in - we can decide on East or West side.

Susie said she went shopping for a bathing suit for Vegas and broke down crying in the dressing room. I need to get a new suit this summer too. I'm dreading it. Absolutely DREADING it!

Okay - no more complaining. Let's all aim to get exercise in this week and concentrate on what goes into our mouths. It's the mindless eating that does the most damage. (and we all know how mindless I am these days...)

Hang in there everyone and decide about Sunday. It's supposed to be warm!

Day Thirty Six....

2008-04-29T03:33:00.000-07:00

Who's up for walking this weekend? I know Nicky is in. Susie will be in Las Vegas. What about the rest of you?

Things seem to be petering out here. Even if you're not losing - don't give up! I can feel changes in my body from all the walking and weight lifting - even if the scale isn't budging.

At least check in here - even if it's too complain about how hard this is. IT IS!

Day Thirty Five....

2008-04-28T15:24:00.000-07:00

Where is everyone? Are Nicky & I alone here?

Day Thirty Four....

2008-04-27T18:53:00.000-07:00

Not much activity here................

I walked before church this morning. Two miles. I tried to do the Cto5K - made it through two runs but my groin muscles were killing me! I'm telling you - when you hit 50 it all starts fallin' apart! I was able to walk through the pain - so I'll keep up the walking and start the running again as soon as the pain in the groin subsides.

I'm still doing my weights faithfully and hoping those arms are worth revealing at the wedding!

Congrats Nicky on fitting into your dress! Woohoo!

I need to go shopping and get some decent food in the house. I found Mike's stash pf goodies in the garage (yes - he hides his sweets from me!) so I helped myself to some cookies yesterday. Naughty me.

I'm not seeing the weight drop like I want - but things feel a lot harder. I like that. A little less jiggle factor makes me happy!

So...is anyone still hanging in there?

Comment guys!

Day Thirty Three....

2008-04-26T10:50:00.001-07:00

Well....Mary & I met at our new place and I gave her a tour. Too bad the rest of you missed out! Then we walked the canal to Spencerport, stopped and had coffee and toast (actually she had toast - I had an english muffin) and then walked back. It was about 5 miles, round trip. The weather was awesome and the walk was good!

There are now exactly 6 weeks to the wedding. It will be here before you know it! Mary & discussed that we truly are convinced that exercise is a major component in this weight loss thing. We talked about the book "Fit or Fat" (which we both read many years ago and I am re-reading now. It is an excellent book on the benefits of exercise and has a lot of info that helps explain this whole weightloss dilemma. I'd advise anyone who's interested to check it out of the library or borrow my copy. It's a quick read and will open your eyes to a lot of things!

I'm hoping we can walk together next weekend. (Maybe all of us? Wouldn't that be novel??) Maybe we can even do it later in the day and then have the guys meet us at one of the houses and have a cook-out/campfire). Our place (on Ogden Parma would work) but I'm up for wherever.

I know a lot of people are waning right now - not losing as fast as you'd like - but just keep telling yourselves that every little step you make towards CHANGING a bad habit or INCORPORATING a good one - will have lasting effects.

I'm sick of being the one who sits my fanny in a lawn chair and watches other people play volleyball or Frisbee....I want to be out there too!

Mike & I will probably have a campfire at the Ogden Parma house tonight. If anyone is game- let me know and we can do a cook out. We can play bocci ball - take golf cart rides - cow car for the kids and just hang out. Those who missed this morning's house tour can also get one.

Day Thirty Two...

2008-04-25T03:15:00.001-07:00

I didn't do the Cto5k yesterday. My foot is still hurting (I'm still limping somewhat) and I'm afraid I'll do more harm than good. Did Mary & Nicky go this morning? You guys are going to motivate me if you do this!

Rachel's on a roll here now too! Passing up sweets! Way to go Rach!

I'm still doing my weights every other day and under the jellyroll I'm starting to see some definition. Last night I carried a big armload of firewood at Mike's and actually felt pretty strong! C'mon muscles - eat up that fat!

I've been bringing a boca burger on whole wheat bread to school everyday for lunch with either an apple or an orange. And carry my water bottle with me wherever I go. I'll admit - I've been lax on the small pate thing. Gotta get back to that with dinners. And I haven't been eating much in the way of breakfast. I'm always in a rush.

Speaking of which - gotta get ready for work!

Let me now about walking this weekend!

Day Thirty One....

2008-04-24T11:48:00.000-07:00

Hmmm... Don't know where the picture went that I posted last time. Can't even remember what it was!

If you haven't tossed yesterday's paper - check out page 9F in the Our Towns Section. Our kitchen is featured! But they didn't publish the before shot and the after pic is black and white so it's not that impressive.

Right now I'm trying to get the motivation up to do my Cto5k jog/walk. My foot still hurts and I'm leery.

Sorry Nicky - I can't do your 30 hour famine. I'm booked this weekend trying to get my house in order so we can get it on the market. I've got tons of painting to do!

Haven't heard from you guys about walking this weekend. More input on times & days??

How is everyone doing?

Oh and Nicky...we figured since everyone is dieting we'd serve carrots & celery at your shower and yogurt instead of cake. Is that okay?

NOT! Only kidding! We'll have good chow!

Day Thirty.....

2008-04-23T03:20:00.000-07:00

Just a quickie...I'm off to work.

Wondering If Mary & Nicky did their "run" this morning! I'm still sore but I'm going to push myself after school to do mine!

I ate good all day until I got home and devoured a whole bunch of almonds. Paula - your idea about a turkey wrap is a good one! I'll try that.

Get in touch with Susie about the shower date so we can book the lodge. Friday - May 16th is what we're looking at. (it's not available Saturday). I have an evite ready to go (as a "save the date" and Susie has the invitations ready.

My arms are getting stronger from my weight lifting. Keep those babies right by the TV! Now if I can get rid of the wings....

Stay strong today. Say no to the chocolate!

Day Twenty Nine....

2008-04-22T04:46:00.000-07:00

Welcome back Paula and Susie :-)

I am SO sore from the walk Sunday. My right foot is killing me! I wasn't like this after the last walk - which was longer! I'm wondering if the change in seasons has made my arthritis flare up.

Yesterday I did the Couch to 5k too! In spite of my painful foot (which was probably a bad idea..) I did okay though. it was a pain because I didn't have a stop watch so I had to count in my head - 60/90 second intervals. But it went by fast and I actually ran more than the 90 seconds sometimes. (Like if a car was going by or I passed a house with someone in the front yard - didn't want to look like a dweeb stopping my jog - so I kept going.) I'm so weird!

I want to do it again tomorrow - but I'm worried about the foot. Nurse Mary - what would cause pain on the outer middle bottom of my one foot? I'm actually limping. When I woke up yesterday it felt like there was a lump on the bottom of my foot. It was strange....

I have been doing good eating wise AND exercising and yet the scale is not moving like I want it too! Even the day I lo-carbed it (as in hardly ANY carbs -just to get s kick start and zip. Gone are the days I coud drop 5 pounds in 3 days.... it's like my body is say "NO! They're MINE!"

As far as the walk - it appears we have a conflict. I'm pretty open to any time. Could everyone post their available times and we'll figure something out? I know we're walking/jogging on our own during the week - but getting together once a week is fun and motivating (!)

Day Twenty Eight....

2008-04-21T04:33:00.000-07:00

Okay - we've been at this 4 weeks and I'm not seeing the results I want to see! it's like Susie said - you bust your butt all week and drop a few pounds and then one slip up and it's back!

But I'm not giving up. I've been really pushing the exercise - doing my weights and walking and watching my carb intake. Not eliminating them - but making sure they are the good kind.

I am SO SORE after that walk yesterday! I wasn't too bad after the one in Spencerport - but yesterday! Wow! Wonder if because the path was bumpy - because my feet (especially my right one) are killing me! Anyone else hurt?

I'm off today (no one calls in sick the day after spring break - you're not "allowed" to) but I have to work tomorrow. So I'm getting right out there this morning and walking again.

Next weekend - where are we walking? I was thinking maybe we could start in Spencerport and walk the canal heading east to Gillette Road. That would take us right by the new house and you guys could see our progress! It's 2.32 miles one way. if we do a round trip it's almost 5 miles. Doable. Or we can start at the house and walk to Spencerport and get (a healthy) breakfast there. Depending on the time we go or the day. Either day is okay with me. (Mary....they have an Abbott's there....)

Susie - are you going to finally join us on this one? We really do have a good time!

Have a good Monday. Eat less. Move more.

Day Twenty Seven....

2008-04-20T05:13:00.001-07:00

Oh yes...this is just what I need! A Padded fanny Girdle!

Okay - so we're walking the canal path near Mary's house. Meeting there around 1:30ish.

If Paula & Susie are back in town and up to it - come join us...tell us about your vacations and walk off some of the food you ate all week!

Yesterday I finished the day off with over 11000 steps! I also ate like a mouse all day - avoided ALL carbs for 24 hours (hard thing to do) but I need to kick start this thing. And today - I'm up a pound! #@!*&@

I'm not giving in. It's got to come off sooner or later.

Okay - see you after church!

Day Twenty Six

2008-04-19T11:11:00.000-07:00

There are exactly 7 weeks till the big day!

I walked the old route Pat & I used to do today. It's exactly 4.28 miles. (I mapped it on Map My Walk ). When I was about 1/2 mile from home - Mike drove up and needed me to take him to the other house. He'd left he car there last night - so I didn't get to complete the whole walk. But I still walked for an hour and logged in about 3 3/4 miles. The weather was awesome and my new MP3 player from Mike's mom made it bearable since I was alone and had no one to talk to.

As for tomorrow's walk - why don't we plan on meeting at Mary's around 1:30ish. We can decide from there where to walk. Unless it's raining - let's go for it!

I haven't been doing too well the past few days. had a run in with some oreos down at the cottage (note pic I put on the side bar the other day...was that a freaking omen or something??)

Anyway - the resolve is back and now that spring break is over I'll be back at school and on a tighter leash eating wise.

Let me know who's in tomorrow. Lurkers welcome!

Day Twenty Five...

2008-04-18T14:24:00.000-07:00

Mike & I went down to the cottage last night to see how things fared over the winter.

All is well :-)

Are we walking Saturday or Sunday? Let me know!

Right now I'm headed over to the other house for a campfire. If anyone feels compelled - stop by! We'll give you a tour of the new house. It's such a nice night!

Day Twenty Four...

2008-04-17T05:09:00.000-07:00

I think Mary is right. About the sweating part. (Gheesh...you'd think with all the hot flashes I have these days I'd weigh about 112!) But she's talking about a different kind of sweat. The kind she'd get when she used to run. Or the kind we'd get when we did aerobics. The dripping - I need to take a shower kind of sweat.

When Pat & I used to do our 3 mile walks (which we did rather frequently for many years) we'd be sweating when we got home. (At least I would be!) We walked fast and after the first 2 miles it was difficult not to exert energy especially since part of it was uphill.

I hate to walk alone. it's boring. When we girls did the canal walk 2 weeks ago - that was fun and it flew by. I never got tired of walking or focused on the finish line because we were yakking so much. But there's no one here to walk with. (Mike doesn't like to walk....I have to drag his butt at the lake just to get him to take a walk with me.) I think because he's on his feet all day at work - never sits once - even eats lunch (if he even eats lunch) standing up.

I have been doing my weights. Keep them right by the TV and do 3 reps each of 4 different arm exercises with 10# weights. At least when I finally lose the flab I'll have some definition under there. I hope.

Back to the walking. I need to MAKE myself do it. EVERY DAY! And I need to get a new pedometer - which I'm doing today. Because my scale isn't budging now either!

As for Mary losing incentive because she bought the dress.... I know how that goes. But keep telling yourself that a 10 lb. loss will make your face look slimmer!

And we're not just shooting for the wedding now - it's that dock party at Keuka on the 4th! remember? Swimsuits??

Day Twenty Three.....

2008-04-16T05:50:00.000-07:00

Is anyone else having trouble posting a comment? Susie said she wrote one the other day and it never showed up.

It looks like Nicky & I are up for a walk this weekend. Who else is in? And which day is better? Either works for me. The weather is supposed to be nice so there's no excuses!

Last night Mike & I made a campfire out in the yard - burned all our old branches from the trees we chopped down. And we ordered a pizza and wings. So I'm out in the yard and mindlessly eating. Three pieces of the pie and three wings! It's hard to eat on a small plate and stop between each bite when you're standing in front of a campfire.

I'm feeling bloated now. And mad at myself.

And I'm wondering how you guys are all doing? If you tell me you're losing and exercising and being all good - I'll be more motivated! If you tell me you're struggling and slipping up too - I'll feel more human.

Just want to know what's happening!

And about the walk - where? East side I'm assuming. How about a walk through the park?

Day Twenty Two.....

2008-04-14T08:34:00.000-07:00

Oh wow - I'm really messed up here on what day this is. It's Actually Day 22! Not sure what I did a while back. The countdown #'s are right - just the day numbers are screwed up.

Damn menopause!

I wasn't going to post today. Figured I'd see if anyone noticed since no one seems to comment and I feel like I'm preaching to cyberspace....

But then Nicky left a comment (it went on yesterday's post) so I figured Id better stick with it. Go Nicky!!

Has everyone done their taxes? Tomorrow's the deadline. Grrr. We have to pay about a grand this year. Go figure. They may as well just keep the stinking rebate check we're entitled to. Save themselves the stamp. Don't get me on a roll here but when Nixon died the Federal Government shut down for a day to honor him (wait..he resigned in dishonor right? Hmmmm...) Anyway - it cost the government 400 million dollars to shut down for a day! (Why you ask?) Because they had to pay a whole lot of people to work that day anyway because they couldn't truly shut down and still function - but since it was a declared "holiday" the employees got paid time and a freaking half!! So yes...I'm a tad miffed as I write the check this year (especially since our income this year was squat.)

Okay - had to vent so I wouldn't eat.

I am DEFINITELY walking this weekend. Who's in and where shall we go?

Day Nineteen....

2008-04-13T10:52:00.000-07:00

So we all petered out on the walk because of the cold. We are total wimps... I will say though - that I think it was in the best interest of my knee not to go.

Nicky, you're very right about the muscle weighing more than fat - except I doubt I've built up that much muscle in so short a time. Wouldn't that be nice though *sigh*

Today I'm pulling out all the stops and having a total non-carb day. Believe me...I'm in no way pushing the lo-carb route - it's just that I need to kick start this diet with some kind of substantial weight loss (even if it IS water - and even if I DO have to give up my precious carbs for one day.) I need motivation! Gone are the days when I could go on a diet and drop the pounds like melting butter. Ah to be young....

You'd think though since I'm so freaking overweight that the pounds would be coming off faster than they are. Aren't fat people supposed to be able to lose more quickly than their skinny counterparts?

So how IS everyone doing so far? I noticed we all had cake on our plates at the shower.... But hey - so did the skinny people so there must be some element of this we're missing here.

Anyone got any clues???

Oh..and my dumb pedometer broke. Dang AARP! The other ones I fished out the drawers are all shot too. The only one working measures miles and I want STEPS. So it's off to get another one this week. It's been the only real positive thing I've done that is giving me progress.

Day Eighteen..........

2008-04-12T05:07:00.000-07:00

I'm not doing too well in the losing department. I've been eating lots more fruit, using the small plate and taking way less portions than normal and packing a healthy lunch for school. And getting more steps in than normal - in spite of my knee. It actually seems much better. I can hike tomorrow. And I only have a tinge of bruising around my eyes. A little makeup and it just looks like I haven't gotten much sleep. (which I don't (!) with the darn night sweats ~ speaking of which..I'm having a hot flash right now) pause while I rip off my bathrobe here....

So the scale has gone up a pound! This is why I always get frustrated!!

How is everybody else doing?

Day Seventeen...

2008-04-11T03:54:00.000-07:00

I'm doing much better (see comment on yesterdays' post...) Am going to work anyway. Need the $! I'm still making bloody boogers but so far my schnoz isn't looking too bad. No bruising that I can see - just a little swelling. And the knee feels better. Still limping but I think I'm going to live!

Can't write much because I have to get to school. Paula - have a great cruise!! I'll see the rest of you tomorrow at the shower but will write more tonight if I can.

Is Eryn still alive?

Day Sixteen....

2008-04-10T04:35:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I only logged a little over 5000 steps on the pedometer. I tried to walk with Rachel but the wind had kicked up and we had Austin and it was blowing in his face so we only walked about 10 minutes before heading back. Which shows me that I need that 2 mile walk every day to get those 10,000 steps.

I'm telling you guys - put one on and you'll automatically start taking more steps. It's all about moving and that silly little thing is like a thorn in my side telling me to move!

My major downfall each day is right after work. For some reason I'm conditioned to come in the door and go right to the fridge. Of course having lunch at 10:30 each morning doesn't help. (That's my usual lunch hour at school). So yesterday I brought an orange to tide me over but I STILL went right to the fridge.

Today I'm off so we'll see if those afternoon munchies hit or if it's just a conditioned response. (Remember after school as a kid? First ting we did was check for a snack.) I'm trying to see my eating patterns here and come up with counter attacks. Any suggestions?

Also - I wish you guys would check in daily. Even if you just write "Hanging in there!" so I know that writing this daily thing isn't falling on deaf ears.

Mary is down 5 pounds! Cool beans! She is safe from the pig nose for now!

Day Seventeen....

2008-04-09T03:42:00.001-07:00

It's Day Seventeen and the troops are waning. Have you guys fizzled out already??? You are all still planning to hike with Nicky & I Sunday aren't you?

Yesterday I did great with my pedometer - 12,804 steps! it helped because I worked (and I walk a lot when I work traveling to different parts of the building - and I took Austin for a 2 mile walk too. (I walked - he rode!)

Gotta run to work - will post more after school. I sure hope there are some comments.

I may have to purchase several more pig noses!

Day Sixteen.....

2008-04-08T03:08:00.000-07:00

Nicky - you're doing great but don't aim for such big losses in one week! The only way you can make a loss like that is to severely restrict your calorie intake which will backfire! Your metabolism will slow down and your body will actually start hanging on to every calorie instead of burning them. See this post ! You want to be healthy for that wedding too (so you can enjoy the honeymoon) tee hee!

I wore my pedometer yesterday (didn't get it on until about 10:30 though) and logged 4,180 steps. That's a far cry form 10,000! But I absolutely did notice that I walked and moved a lot more than normal and was conscious of it all day. If I'd walked my 2 mile route I would've made a lot more progress! Austin woke up vomiting though (and luckily I didn't get called into work) so I was home all day inside with him. I did try to get on the Gazelle but he kept walking in front of it and I was afraid I was going to take him down! I know - lame excuses. I could've got back on it while he napped but I got involved with other stuff that needed to be done....

I'm curious to see what I walk today at school. (The pedometer makes a little noise with each step I take...my students are going to tease me for sure - high school kids....) Especially since the thing says AARP across the front. I'll try to hide it...

So where is everyone??? The pig nose is up for grabs. It's pink in case you want to color coordinate your dresses...

Day Fifteen....

2008-04-07T04:32:00.000-07:00

This weekend wasn't so good for me. Weekends never are. But it's Monday and my resolve is back. I'm finally feeling sore from that walk Saturday. I guess it took a few days for my muscles to realize what happened. I don't have to work today so I'm going to make sure I walk and enjoy the weather.

I need to go grocery shopping and get some fruit in the house. Mike also bought some chocolate marshmallow ice cream (he must've had it hidden in the freezer downstairs) but it's up here now (saw the remnants of the wrapper this morning) so that will be a feat to resist!

How did the rest of you do over the weekend? Any weight lost? I'm trying to keep it straight on the side bar so if I mess up -let me know. I don't have anything yet for Eryn, Rachel or Debbie. And Mary...when you weigh in (after you pee) I'll get rid of the +lbs because you hadn't officially started yet right? Just let me know what to put there.

If Pam was doing this with us she'd already have lost 14 pounds!

Last night on "I Can Make You Thin" the guy said.....(I'm paraphrasing here because I can't remember his words exactly) If it's measured - it will get done. What he was referring to was wearing a pedometer. He said if you are actually measuring your steps - you'll automatically walk more. He also said the difference between fat people and thin people is about 2000 daily steps. I have several pedometers here. I'm going to start wearing one today. I'll try to round up the extras I have and bring them Sunday for anyone who wants one.

He said to measure your normal steps the first day. Then try to keep adding more each day till you reach 10,000 steps a day. You'll automatically find yourself taking the stairs, parking farther away, walking to a co-worker's office instead of sending an e-mail.... I wonder how many steps that walk we took was! And I bet Paula, if you wore a pedometer on the cruise you'd be amazed at the walking you did! You'd probably beat us all!

Okay...I'm off to start my week! Going to make some oatmeal & raisins and a second cup of coffee.

Go for it this week! Aim to drop TWO pounds!

Day Fourteen!

2008-04-06T05:18:00.001-07:00

It's been two weeks ladies! I don't' have losses to post for some of you in the side bar (mainly because you haven't sent them to me). There have been losses, right?

Yesterday at Paula's we weighed in. We had all our clothes on so it wasn't truly accurate. But at least it was a starting point. We "assigned" weights to those of you who weren't there (hee hee). I weighed the most (of course...like that would surprise anyone!)

We talked a lot about our goals...shared tips for healthy meals and decided that we definitely want to all go swim suit shopping together. We are going to strut our "stuff'" on the 4th at Keuka! I'll be far from my goal weight but I intend to have lost enough to wear a swim suit again! No more hiding my arse like the pic above!

I actually don't feel too sore considering we walked 7 1/2 miles. I think working out on my Gazelle got me primed . So I have this awesome morning and then I go and blow it by eating too much the rest of the day. But today's a new day so I'm just moving on not letting myself get into the "I blew it so I may as well quit" mentality - which was my downfall for years.

Debbie & Steve stopped by my house while we were walking...Hey Deb - you should've joined us! Sorry I missed you guys!

So...look or those fat & skinny pics (I only have mine & Nicky's so far). Get out and walk today and eat some fruit! (Nicky brought her baggie of carrots, grapes & cucumbers with her on the walk) she's serious about this! Go Nicky!

Day Thirteen....

2008-04-05T04:37:00.000-07:00

So today's the day for our big walk and it's freaking 37 degrees right now! But it's supposed to go up to 59 so maybe it'll warm up quickly (it's on 7:30 right now...)

Nicky sent her fat/skinny pics to me. I'm going to try to play around and see how I can crop them before I put the on the site. BTW Nicky...your "fat" pic isn't all that bad! You don't really look fat to me!

I'm assuming Mary & Andy are having fun at the Casino and will take us all out with their winnings when they return!

Susie mentioned the carb thing.....thank goodness that craze is over! I know lo-carb diets "melted" the weight off - but so unhealthy! And who could stick to that anyway? I'm just trying to eat what I want - make healthier choices - but just eat LESS! Mom told me that years ago. She said her OBGYN (Bruce) told her - eat as you normally would - just cut it in half and you'll lose weight. We're just used to such big portions these days! I remember when I first got married and started filling my plate up to match what Pat had on his. I never used to eat that much. And it became a habit. I swear - the small plate thing is helping me immensely. That and slowing down. (You know us Grant's - we're speed eaters!) Paula can vouch for that...I think Michael is the fastest of us all!)

Oh - and those southwest salads at Wegman's? Didn't know about that! I was totally bummed when McDonald's stopped selling theirs! It was awesome! I'll have to check it out!

Last thing - check out the latest link on the side bar - Hungry Girl. It's an awesome site full of great info!

And I'm going to start sending a reminder each day about the site. Some of you have gone AWOL! And Debbie - let us know how WW is going!

Day Twelve...

2008-04-04T06:04:00.000-07:00

Are some of you losing steam? Haven't seen as much activity comment wise. I don't know about you guys, but seeing all your comments makes me want to try even harder so I'm not the biggest slug at the wedding. When I don't see comments I think....ahhh...they're not really trying today....guess i can slack off too!

But so far- slack off, I have NOT! I'm down another pound Woohoo! I rode (would you call it rode?) my Gazelle yesterday morning before work and I pushed myself so I did break out in a sweat. I like the thing! It's easy on my knees and very quiet.

Last night I dreamt I was at some fat camp (like the Biggest Loser) and we had to do pull-ups. We were in the neighbor's back yard (on McGuire) and I did 25 pull-ups on the monkey bars! I was so proud! truth be told...I doubt I could even do one! But the feeling it gave me in the dream made me want to try! Can you believe I'm actually dreaming about EXERCISE??

I miss the days when we were younger and it was a given that Mary & I were always involved in something! Remember Mar? Aerobics (at so many different places), Jazzercise, that Woman's Health Club.... and Susie tagged along as she got older too. (Back when we first started caring about our weight...Susie was this disgustingly thin little teenager!)

If any of you have access to a scanner - here's' what I want you to do. Find a pic of you when you really were in good shape. E-mail it to me and I'll post it on the site. For motivation. If you want to send your worst pic too - I can post that along side it. Double motivation!

I'm going to try to do that sometime today. In the meantime...keep moving....keep going on those fruits & veggies (yay Nicky!) and don't forget the nuts and whole grains. Eat slo-o-o-o-wly and use a smaller plate. I'm not kidding yo - the slow trick is really making a difference here. I'm getting fuller much faster and am satisfied with much less. Don't forget the water too. Drink lots!

Happy Friday! See you all tomorrow morning!

Day Eleven.....

2008-04-03T04:06:00.000-07:00

How's everybody doing? Last night I ate dinner at 5:30 instead of 8, 9 or even 10 with Mike as I usually do and told him this would now be the norm. I'm pretty convinced that my eating habits since I met him have a lot to do with the size I am now. (I've put on 30 pounds since we met!!!!)

I try to wait to eat with him and inevitably have a little SNACK to tide me over which turns into a full fledged meal or worse - a binge. Then I ear again when he comes home! Or...I eat my own meal at the normal time and he comes home and fixes something that smells way too good to pass up & I end up eating two dinners. NO MORE!

I've been telling myself for too long that when we move into the new house it will change. He'll be working right outside in the shop and I can call him in for dinner - or bring it out to him. But at a normal time! But it's been way too long waiting for the darn house to get finished and at this point I doubt we'll be in before summer. I can't wait any longer.

Last night I went to bed before he made his own meal so I wasn't tempted. Small victory for me!

I have a good recipe for a heart/diet healthy snack you can prepare in baggies and bring with you for car munchie attacks, or at your desk at work - bored attacks. 1/2 cup plain cheerios, 1/4 cup dried cranberries and 1/4 cup plain almonds. It satisfies the crunchy, sweet need and is very good for you. (I read it in the "You-On a Diet" book and it's very tasty and satisfying!)

Just so we're all on the same page - Saturday at Paula's house - 10:30. Hope it'll be warm and dry. And that hike next weekend sounds so cool! Thanks Nicky for the idea!!! One of the things I miss about Pat not being here is that we used to hike a lot. Mike's not a walker...or hiker. This will be well needed!

Don't forget to post you losses, log your exercise and pass along tips (and humor) that's always a plus! Also - I think you can check the box on the comment page for follow up comments to be e-mailed directly to you so you don't miss any. You have to check it each time you comment though and it will mail the follow up comments.

But still visit the site at least once a day to see the stats in the side bar and any new posts or pics. If you have anything you want me to post on the site - pictures, cartoons, etc - e-mail them to me and I'll out them on.

Happy Thursday!

Day Ten...

2008-04-02T04:01:00.001-07:00

Ten days already guys! It's moving fast. I can only write a bit now - gotta go to work. I'll post more after school. in the meantime - let's get Saturday on the books!

Day nine....

2008-04-01T03:47:00.000-07:00

It's another day closer to the Big Day! I think when all is said and done we should go out together shopping for a new dress to wear to the wedding. We can help Mary find a mother of the bride dress too. Nicky & Eryn (who all have theirs already - duh) can shop for something to wear to the rehearsal dinner! Or....We can wait till the END of June (lose even a little more) and all go out shopping for bikinis! Well...probably not bikinis (Charlotte Beach isn't ready for us yet) but at least new bathing suits.

I HATE shopping for a bathing suit more than I hate cleaning under the rim of my toilet. Those three way mirrors (which I'm convinced they got from the carnival outlet store) make my butt look like a football field. I come home feeling like crap - with no suit in hand and consequently only swim if it's SO hot I think I'm going to melt and no one is around.

This year - let's make one of our little goals to be a to all hang out at Keuka on the 4th this year - on the deck - in our swimsuits - without hiding under three towels and a pair of shorts.

Today is suppose to be really nice! Is anyone available to meet somewhere and walk? I get out of school at 2:15. If not...I'll walk myself - but I am GOING to walk!

Mary had a mini victory yesterday with that Panera bread spread at work. Don't know if I could've been that strong. Chocolate croissants? Gheesh!

Okay - gotta' run to work. Stay strong - eat slow - take the stairs - park farther away. it all adds up!

Day Eight...

2008-03-31T03:06:00.000-07:00

First off ~ Happy belated Birthday to Paula! I forgot. I knew it was coming up last week - but then in my menopausal stupor - forgot about it yesterday.

Maybe we can get together for a weigh in/birthday celebration. Minus the cake of course. Maybe get together and walk - meet at a park? Let me know...

All the ideas posted so far are great. Susie's right about the exercise and the endorphin thing kicking in. It's getting motivated to start that's hard. I'm definitely walking as much as I can this week. The weather is supposed to be nice!

I did good all day yesterday (I actually couldn't eat all my allotted calories at breakfast.) I made cream of wheat and added raisins. Doing the "slow-eating method...I was full 2/3 of the way through so I tossed it out.

I have to get ready for work so I can't write more. I'll check back later to see how you're all doing. Any pounds lost yet? Drink LOTS of water! It helps in many ways.

Day Seven....

2008-03-30T04:50:00.000-07:00

Mary...had to laugh at your last comment. Made me think of this pic!

It's day 7 - that's one whole week. Anyone lost any weight? Or are you all trying to get the motivation juices flowing? I'm down one pound. Not much...but it's a start. I've been reading up on all kinds of different ways to shed the blubber and I'm convinced that the only way to really do it - is to incorporate lifestyle changes that we can live with. Now and always. Other wise we'll just put it all back on and then some when all is said and done. And at that rate - we really WILL look like these pictures I've been posting.

Here's what I've come up with or my plan:

Breakfast - 400 calories

Lunch - 400 calories

Dinner - 500-600 calories

Snacks - 200 calories total

1500 calories - 1600 calories daily total (which seems like a lot when you're trying to diet -but studies show that eating too little backfires. Not only does it set you up for cravings because you'll feel deprived (and ultimately binge) but it slows down your metabolism.

Eating a good breakfast is the key. Which is hard for me because it's the easiest meal to skip. I'm not usually hungry in the morning and I've always figured by skipping, I'm saving calories I can eat another time. Obviously (see my ass) that doesn't work. And (again studies prove this) not eating breakfast sets you up for being ravenous at later meals and you actually consume more calories than you would have. Also - a piece of toast and coffee doesn't constitute a good breakfast.

Along with the calorie intake schedule I'm making sure those calories include fruit at least twice daily and veggies twice daily. I know...Wegman's says strive for five....but that's striving for me. I've also incorporated whole grains as much as I can. Anything that's a bread type thing - HAS to be 100% whole wheat. Pasta, bread, tortilla shells, pitas... (but it has to 100% - there's a lot of fakes out there.) Whole grains are really good for your heart and we have heart disease in our family. (Mom & Dad both had heart issues as well as Uncle Roger, Aunt June & Papa.) My Dr. told me with our history we need to be vigilant.

Finally I'm going to walk at least 3x week and lift weights 3x a week. The gym at Pearce is open and FREE if anyone wants to go there with me. I'm not sure about the hours though. I'll check.

So there's my plan. I've been sidestepping this weight issue for too long. When I see pictures of myself I want to puke. That fat person is not who I am and yet I've been letting it define me.

We are going to all look hot for that wedding. (Don't worry - Nicky - you'll be the hottest because you're the star of the show that day!) We'll be your awesome sidekicks!

So - let's get this show on the road and plan a weigh in/activity day. Let's post some losses here! if you have a loss - let me know and I'll post it in the side bar.

Day Six....

2008-03-29T06:40:00.000-07:00

Okay - this is it! We have EXACTLY 10 weeks to nail this down. There are now 8 of us! Who's going to be the oinker at the wedding? (me probably...I have the most to lose) but in terms of whose going to show up with a loss big enough for the others to notice? That should be ALL OF US!

I'm sending out a daily reminder (going to bug the crap out of all of you) until you start leaving comments.

There was a re-run of the "I Can Make You Thin" show that I missed Sunday (because of Easter). Did anyone see it? It was weird...about this tapping thing that's supposed to make you stop eating emotionally.

Suggestion for this week - smaller plate. It's an oldie but goodie. I'm going to do it all week and see if it helps.

By the way - the person who comments the least here has to wear a pig nose at the wedding.

Day Five....

2008-03-28T12:06:00.001-07:00

Nicky has suggested a de-tox (see her comment.) Here is a good article about it. At this point - I'm not going to knock anything that anyone wants to try. Whatever kick starts you and gets you motivated is what you need to do. I'm going to pass on the de-tox though. But I am trying to eat lots more fruit (which I have a hard time doing) and I must say that "things" are running smoothly in that department.

I'm going to send a reminder e-mail everyday with a link to the website to make it easier to touch base and comment (ahem...) I'm going to assume that those who aren't checking in are feasting on bon-bons and milkshakes daily.

I've been sick - so not eating as much anyway the past few days....can't taste anything so why bother.

Debbie LeRoy just joined Weight Watchers so let's not let her show us up at the wedding!

Day Four....

2008-03-27T05:28:00.000-07:00

Is that US in the picture? Phew...it was just bad dream.....

Last night the show I mentioned wasn't on! Not sure why - it was listed in the TV guide. Instead there was a marathon of Kate & Nate Plus Eight (that show about the lady with 8 kids...) Crap.

You guys need to check in daily with a comment. It only takes a minute. Just bookmark the site in your favorites and visit once a day. Comment if you've lost anything. If you've had a binge or a victory (saying no to the jelly beans) anything! It's the accountability that's gonna make this work for us.

So here's a little thing to get you going on the comment thing....

Name 3 things you HATE about being overweight. I'm sure there are LOTS - but just name three. These will be your motivators. (Susie - I'm counting on you for comic relief here!)

Here are my three -

I have a closet full of clothes I can't fit into...

I'm embarrassed when I run into people that haven't seen me in a while...

My gut sticks out farther than my boobs....

Another thing....Terri gave me the stuff for the Weight Watcher's Core Plan. It is pretty easy. If you want me to post it here - I can.

We have just over 10 weeks to do this. That's 2 pounds a week (translated = 7,000 calories less each than we're eating now per week OR 1000 calories less each day!) Walking 30 minutes a day will burn between 180-220 calories depending on your weight. Check out the Calorie Burner Calculator on the side bar or click on the name here. That means if you walk each day - you need to consume about 8oo less calories each day too.

I'm keeping a journal so I know what goes into my pie hole each day. Yesterday I did real good until I got home from school. I thought I had cleaned Austin's basket out of anything good - but there was a dark chocolate bunny hiding under the grass. He's not there anymore. I'm wearing him on my ass.

Day Three....

2008-03-26T04:47:00.001-07:00

Okay ....If we're going to do this together....we need to all check in daily with a comment and let each other know how we're doing! It's the accountability factor that's going to make this work!

Yesterday I did great most of the day and then I found Austin's Easter basket. Not a good thing. We didn't get him much candy - but Mike's mom did! (She gave him TWO baskets!!) Luckily is was mostly stuff I can't stand. Anything worth eating is gone now.

Tonight (at 10:00 on TLC) the show "I can make you thin" is on. It' s usually on Sunday nights at 9:00 but the re-run is on Wednesdays. That's' where I learned the eating slow trick. It's a cool show. Very motivating so far. It's on for 6 (?) weeks. This is show #2.

Anyone lost and weight yet?

Day Two....

2008-03-25T06:09:00.000-07:00

Here's the diet tip for today - EAT SLOWLY! Sounds too easy, I know. But try this for one meal today. Put your fork down between EVERY bite. All the way down. Chew each bite at least 20 times. (Okay...hard to do with ice cream - but that's not a meal anyway!)

Don't have anything in front of you to distract you. As in - don't READ anything while you're eating. I know - that's hard for us Grants...we have to read whether it's going in or coming out. But just try this!

We spend so much time thinking about what we're going to eat - and then when it comes time to eat it - we slam it down before we've even had time to taste it - let alone enjoy it. That's why we overeat. If you eat slower and really enjoy each bite - you won't be grabbing for seconds.

You know the book..."Why French Women Don't get Fat...." and the concept of the Weigh Down Workshop - Eat what you want - only when you're hungry - savor it - stop when you're full.

Okay - we're still waiting on Susie & Paula here. Mary's in and Rachel too.

Let's do this!

Let's Get Started!

2008-03-24T13:21:00.001-07:00

Okay ladies...last night we were all talking about losing weight for the wedding this June. A do-able regime would net us each about a 15-20 pound loss if we stick to it. Between now (as in TODAY) and June 6th - we have 75 days - that is a little over 10 weeks. Can we do it? YES WE CAN!

After talking to Nicky - we decided that creating a blog where we can all check in and hold each other accountable would be the way to go. I'll post a daily blurb with ideas, suggestions, stats...and everyone can post their own ideas, comments, stats etc. Simply hit "comment" and go for it! To read comments - hit the "comment" button if it list that any were posted.

Let's all really try to make this happen!

I for one need to lose a heck of a lot more than 20 - but hey - this will be a start!

Are you all in?