Day one.

How many times I have said day one, day one, day one and on and on.

The difference today is I have never gone public with this before. So now I am annoucing to the world. "HEY WORLD, TODAY IS THE FIRST DAY OF THE REST OF MY LIFE. Today is DAY ONE."

What food plan, what exercize plan? Not sure yet. To me that's the easy part.

What has been difficult for me the past 6 months is getting the mind set that I need to care about me. So I'm going to start by telling myself all positive thoughts like my user name - thinkspring and my journal title - thinkthin. It's a beginning. It's my beginning.

:flower: thinkspring
2/26/2002
260/260/140

I realized last night that I am writing this for anyone in the world to see. So I am not sure how honest I can be in this journal.

I have been embarrassed to be fat most of my adult life and I am even more embarrassed to talk about this. It has always been my little secret. Ha! 200 + pounds is hard to keep secret.

I went to my TOPS meeting and as expected I gained again. To be fair to myself, I really didn't get serious about losing weight until Monday.

That's really all I have to say today but that I am still here and still committed.

:flower: thinkspring
2/25/02
260/262/140

I took a good look in the mirror this morning and was not pleased with what I saw. I put on this extra 35 pounds this past 6 months and it really makes a difference in my appearance. I have this more than an obvious double chin. Even though I was obese a year ago, my face had some definition. This is terrible.:c(

Well I did well yesterday eating tuna salad for lunch and dinner and oatmeal for breakfast. I've decided I need to cut out the late night eating/binging. I also went to the snack machine too many times a day. I also will cut sugar, obviously, and other carbs.

The big thing for me is to stay active around the house so I don't get bored and eat late at night.

:flower: thinkspring

I love your nickname!
I know what you mean about seeing it finally, I did too, only it was in a photo with my dad. I couldn't believe I looked like that. I have been at low carb now for three weeks and have lost 10.5 lbs. I still have allot to lose, but I will not give up. The people here are great, just when you think" why am i doing this"? someone sends you a note of encouragement. One thing I have heard said many times in here, is One Day At A Time. If you have a bad day, start fresh the next day, and forget about the bad one. no one here expects you to be perfect, only human. I am addicted to this site!! Any way, I rambled, but I am glad you are on your new program, and I wish you all the best.
Clynn :O)

Thanks clynn64 for the response.

I'm still not used to writing a journal, let alone realize other people are reading my journal. I feel funny getting too personal on the boards. Yet I know if I am going to do this right, I MUST be honest with myself. And I know everyone here is safe. We're all going through the same struggles and hopefully, rewards.

As I cut back on the quantity of food I've been eating, I've noticed this week that I am beginning to feel more energetic. I don't get up as groggy in the morning because I haven't stuffed myself the night before. I haven't felt this way in many months.

This is my first weekend on my new lifestyle and I plan on staying busy. Maybe I'll even reward myself by going to the movies.

I expect to have a great weekend and see ya Monday.

:flower: thinkspring

You are off to a great start. And I think everyone here is safe, and has only good intentions. Keep thinking positive, and you will be fine. It has been three weeks for me, and I think I feel a little better every day. I have had little slip ups here and there, but I just pull myself up by the boot straps and begin again.
You have a great weekend, and treat yourself to that movie!
Clynn :O)

Hey girl! Welcome to the journals! (just a little bit late:o )

Everything you said about keeping your weight and your diet struggle like your little "secret" I can completely relate to. And believe me, I know it seems weird to be posting the details in a public forum. But let me just say, I started my journal here back in November, and it has been SOOOO worth it.

At first I was nervous, wondering how people would respond to some of the more bizarre details of my diet history, but no matter how hard I tried it seemed like I couldn't shock anyone. No one here could offer anything other than encouragement, support, and a surprising amount of understanding. So of course, which details you care to post is totally up to you, but I'm just letting you know I've had nothing but positive experiences on DT.

The late-night snacking thing is my downfall too......:c( But when you manage to avoid it, doesn't it feel great to wake up hungry?

You sound like you're off to a great start. Hope you're having a great weekend! :)

Liz

Hi thinkspring. Welcome to DT and the journal section. I also have a journal on here if you ever care to drop by your more than welcomed.:) It's great to see your positive attitude. This is going to be a whole new lifestyle for you. By the time spring finally arrives I won't know who is shining more the sun or your smile from all the pounds you have lost.:D
Have a great weekend.


Judy2:rose: :rose:

I think it's time to take the glasses off and be proud of who I really am. :)

Thank you everybody for the great feedback. It's touching to know there are people who care.

I do feel more comfortable writing in my "public" journal. It's cheaper than a therapist. I can call anytime and not worry about someone watching the clock, telling me just as I get to the juicy part, we have to stop for today. I decide when enough is enough.

Last weekend was a disappointment. I started off with so much energy, then Friday night had a terrible headache from nowhere. I do wonder if my body was adjusting to the new eating plan. I notice in the past, when I change my routine, my body rebels.

Little by little, I am increasing my activity too. I pulled out the exercise videos and books. I prefer to go to the gym because then I am more inclined to finish the routine since I made the trip. At home, dogs and a lack of space gets in the way. Either way, I actually look forward to exercise again.

I sense my attitude really changing and that is my first step to success.

:flower: thinkspring

Great journal thinkspring....
Wanted to let you know many of us are just starting out I just joined february 28 and I am journalling as well. Hope that we can all make the ups and downs journey to success together
CJ

195/181/135

Thinkspring:

Can I relate to your headaches. My body did the same thing when I first started out. Think it was it's way of yelling at me for not giving it the sugar it had always gotten before. But the way I feel now I am sure my body is thanking me a thousand times over for cutting it out.
The biggest step we can take is to change our attitudes about food. We are not dieting here we are changing our life to a healthier lifestyle. We are determined to live full active lives that we are proud of. Your doing great keep up the good work.

Judy2:rose: :rose:

First, thanks to all my supporters. You make the sun shine in my day, and the feather tickle my.. .well you get the picture.

Tonight is weigh-in at TOPS. Normally all the ladies come to the meeting starving, because they didn't eat all day before weigh in. Then they go out to a restaurant after the meeting and feast.

That attitude is silly to me. I should be able to eat my healthy meals all day and not worry about weigh-in. And I don't go out to eat after the meeting, I go workout instead. My husband knows this is the one night of the week that is all for me. (Though I'll usually put something in the crockpot so he can help himself.)

Another lady told everyone not to take a shower before coming to weigh-in because the water retains moisture in the body and you can weigh 2-3 pounds more from a shower. I do like the ladies in the group. I realize sometimes we can all get a little desperate in our thinking and actions.

Normally I am a follower in life. I don't want to rock the boat. Though I have never been afraid to stand up for what I believe is right. I think I want to be a leader by example for this group. The true way to gain health is through common sense habits.

So I'm nervous and excited about weigh-in. Tonight is week one results. Drum roll.......

:flower: thinkspring

Thinkspring:

Can't wait to hear what that drumroll brings with it.:D And I agree with you. We should be able to eat healthy before we are weighed. Eating afterwards only defeats the purpose.
Have a great time at the gym.

Judy2:rose: :rose:

..... and the weight loss is ..... 3.5 pounds!

Of course I realize the first week is a lot of water weight. But this reduction is significant for me because I really started with an attitude change. I wasn't focusing on any food plan or exercise regimen. I just wanted to introduce myself to a way of thinking that says making changes is important and easy.

I know I will have struggles along the way. But, I want to know that how I deal with adversity will be different than running to food and laying on the sofa watching television.

I started going back to the gym. I forgot that up until about May, the gym is full of new members. They usually drop out come spring. And some of the members are so rude!! Many do not adhere to the 20 minute limit, even when there is a long line waiting for the equipment. One lady was finally told by the staff that she exceeded her limit. Boy did she throw a fuss and cause a scene. (I'm venting now.) I was at the gym for an hour and only did 5 min stretching - 20 min treadmill - 5 min cool down. The rest was waiting. But I do still prefer to use the professional equipment than only do videos at home. So I will grin :D and bear it.:(

So here's my new stats and this is how I will measure in my journal. start weight/current weight/short goal/long term goal

262/258.5/199/140

:peace: thinkspring

Good job! Way to go! I am excited for you. Keep up the good work. :O)
I am sorry you are having a hard time at the gym, seems to me they may consider adding some more equipment :O).
Have a great day!
Clynn :O)

Woooooooo Whooooooooo let the bells ring out loud. Way to go on your 3.5 pounds loss. Just think it's gone forever it aint never coming back and you don't have to worry about it now.:D
It's too bad when some people think they should take more time than what is alloted. But there will always be people out there like that. Think that is the reason I didn't join a gym. Well that and the fact I was too embrassed to go into one looking the way I did. I bought myself a rowing machine. And yeap I got a real bargain with it. Only 10 dollars and brand new. One persons junk was my treasure.:)
Keep up the great work and I can't wait till next week to see the results.

Judy2:rose: :rose:

I was sooo tempted last night to eat a late night snack. A ham sandwhich sounded so good for some reason. I went into the kitchen, walked out, in... out. My dog followed me the whole time thinking he was going to get a treat. He was looking at me like, "C'mon lady make up your mind."8-}

I ended up getting a fat free jello and a small dog biscuit. The biscuit satisfied me just fine.:laugh:

Then I went to bed early to try to forget about food. The good part is I got up a little earlier and did the 8 minute Tae-Bo video. And I have my ham sandwhich for lunch.

I saw this commercial on quitting smoking this morning. I always used to think I wish I had a smoking addiction instead of eating because then I would quit completely and not have to worry about touching that substance again. With food, you still have to eat to live.

I thought of something different this morning. That I'm glad I'm not a smoker because to quit properly I would never be able to partake of that pleasure again. But with food, I can still enjoy a good meal and even dessert. I just can't eat the whole cake in one sitting anymore. But the pleasure is still there for me, in moderation.

I made a lentil soup last night for lunch with my sandwhich and for dinner with a salad. So I'm set for the day. Till tomorrow.

:flower: thinkspring

Thank you for starting my day off with a smile!! I can picture it, the poor puppy, but at least he got his snack at last.
Great job girl, that is called determination, and great decision making. :O) Keep it up and from what I hear, those little decisions will get easier and easier the longer we hang in there.
Have a wonderful day, and throw pup an extra treat!!
Clynn :O)

Thinkspring:

Great job of determination when it came to that late nite snack. And a excellent choice for a snack. I had one of those nites last nite also and opted for Low Fat Popcorn it was delicious and I only ate half the bag as it satisfied me competely. Have a great day. And I agree with Clynn give the dog an extra treat.:D

Judy2:rose: :rose:

Oh boy. I have bad and good news. I ate a bag of chips last night. Not a little one , not a big one either, the 99-cent bag.

The good news was while I was eating it I thought, well no one has to know, I don't have to write about it if I don't want to. I'll just skip writing today all together, kinda like I dropped off the face of the earth thing.

I realized this morning, feeling groggy and stomach bloated, I can run but I can't hide. I did it. Lesson learned. Move on.

The other good news is that even up to two weeks ago, an eating binge like that would have lasted the whole weekend, not just one evening. Not this time. I had a bowl of fresh berries this morning with a bran muffin. I have the rest of my lentil soup for lunch. And when my husband takes me out for our usual Friday dinner out, I'm ordering the chicken and salad.

And I plan on exercising before dinner, since I get home before hubby.

So many choices in life. I'm glad to make the healthy choice as I continue my journey.

:flower: thinkspring

Thinkspring:

Your so right that we have so many choices in life. Im glad you made the right one this morning. It's funny how we really don't have to confess if we choose to eat poorly. The only one who would know is ourself. But I am at the point also if I do choose wrong I can admit it. Someone once told me that until we get to that point nothing will ever work for us. She was so right in my opinion. Keep up the good work. :hug:


Judy2:rose: :rose:

I had a pretty descent weekend. I ate larger portions, but everything was healthy. Even when I went out to a restaurant, I had a spinach salad and lentil soup.

I figured I would eat regular maintenance type meals so my body wouldn't think I was starving and slow down the metabolism. Plus the fact is, I was hungry enough that I wanted a little more to eat.

I'm still at the experimental stage of healthy eating. I could count calories, count points, close a box or follow a strick diet plan. I just am not ready to do that yet. I want to be able to make the food decisions for myself, based on what my body is telling me. I want to acquire habits that tell me instinctively what is healthy and what isn't. Of course I know what is bad for me, but I would eat it anyway. I want my body to get used to craving healthy choices. So I'm going with the flow.

:flower: thinkspring

Hello Thinkspring,

I just wanted to stop in and say hi - I saw that you were new to the journals.

Your posts are pretty honest - and I think that is the first step in doing something about changing your lifestyle. I came here back in June and spilled me guts in my journal - all the good and bad and why I was mad at life. The dieting didn't go so well - but I needed to LOSE the other baggage before I could concentrate on doing for me. (By the way once I was done getting everything off my chest I deleted my old journal:( Now I wish I hadn't)

Good luck to you:bfly: :bunny:

Glad you enjoyed the dog biscuit:laugh: so funny. Thanks for the laugh, I needed it. You did great that night. Way to go turning your chip day around and getting back on track again.

Congratulations on the 3.5 lb loss. I know when I attended WW they did the same thing go for a binge afterwards. What a great new habit to develop going to they gym instead a much better reward for your body. Too bad it is so busy. Fortunately I can go in the afternoon and it is almost empty then. Right now I'm learning the circuit training.

Just remember, tiny, baby steps add up to one giant step. You made a few baby steps when you stopped at one bag.:)
That is something to be proud of. You started off right the next day, and that in itself is a good sign. You can do this girl, I know you can........
Have a good one,
Clynn :O)

I was feeling blah this morning until I read all the encouraging posts. It seems I get feedback just when I need it most. I like being a member of diettalk. This has truly helped me to stop obsessing about me.

First I'll talk about the blah stuff. Tonight is weigh-in and I know I didn't do as well as last week. I ate more this week. As stated in an earlier post, I believe my body was telling me I wasn't eating enough. And I know every week is not going to be a great loss, slow but steady. Being in TOPS, I'm in this contest to hold on to "the box" for three weeks by losing weight each week. Finally, after a year in the club I get "the box." I really want to succeed.

Which leads me to the obsessing part. All I've been thinking about is me all week. I know I became overweight because I didn't care about me enough. Now it is too much.

So that's why I'm blah. Back to the blah stuff. This seems to be another internal hurdle I need to climb over before I can truly be on my journey to health.

I'm going to hold my breath when I get on the scale, that's for sure. Does that help?

:flower: thinkspring

Hey Thinkspring,

What do you mean you're obsessing about you?? DO you feel that way just because you are trying to take care of yourself? You have to make you happy first - before you can make anyone else happy:)

Good luck at your weigh-in. You will do this - I know you can!!:bfly:

Thinkspring:

I hope your weigh in goes well for you. Holding your breathe not so sure about. That could cause you to turn blue and Im not really sure if blue is heavier than your normal color.:laugh: Just joking. Good luck tonight and your on the right track so don't worry about being a bit selfish. It's good for everyone to be selfish once in awhile.

Judy2:rose: :rose:

You're doing so great Thinkspring! Even if you don't lose weight this week, simply not gaining is really an accomplishment. With me, whenever I'm not paying attention I'll put on lbs. So even though we'd all like to see a big loss on the scale evey time we get on it, maybe we should just try to put things in perspective.

I think I know what you mean about "obsessing" over yourself. When I'm dieting seriously I spend a lot of time thinking about what I'll eat during the day or when my next trip to the gym will be, all those sorts of things. Honestly though, that's ok!!! You DESERVE some of your own attention! So go ahead and focus on yourself for a change.:D :D

The other day when ate a bag of chips in the evening, but then got up the next day and didn't let it bring you down -- that is so impressive!! I have the hardest time with that. I probably would've let it turn into a weekend-long binge. I hope that I can follow your example next time I get into some Dorritos or something........You really went over a big hurdle and there's no stopping you now!!

Liz

I didn't expect the pep talk this morning. I guess it's ok to be selfish. I just don't like that attitude on other people in my life, so I don't want to be like them.

However, you are all correct. I need to concentrate on what is good for me because no one else will.

For example last night, I was boiling cabbage for a healthy casserole I am making tonight for dinner. My hubby hated the smell. He wanted me to open the windows, put on the fan or stop cooking. It was cold so I didn't open the windows and I continued to cook. He's been wanting to lose weight too. I told him plain and simple, we were eating healthy. He can have his meat and potatoes and breads. I was eating healthy and he could join me or he was on his own.

I wasn't mean about it, just matter of fact. I didn't even think about what I was saying. It naturally came from the heart. Well, he didn't say anything back and that was that.

Busy day today - reality show heaven tonight, Survivor, Amazing Race and Combat Missions, so I'll have to exercise early.

By the way, last night at weight in - down 1.5 pounds - Yipee!

:flower: thinkspring

Good morning, and first off:) big grins on the weight loss!! 1.5 is good for a week, so be happy girl friend!
And it is great to think about yourself, not doing that enough probably contributed to some of the weight gain over the years. I am proud of you for sticking up for yourself, and your needs and cooking the cabbage:D . I know what you mean about being a little obsessed with the new attitude, I am too. But, it will even out once you get into the habit. :rose: . I put my family, friends and dog before me for so long, and worried about them and doing for them all of the time. Now, I go to work out five days a week, no matter what. I sometimes have to work around schedules with the kids, but I know that is what I need so I do it. At first DH didn't like my 6:30 pm work outs because he would come home and I wasn't here. But now, he doesn't say a word, he even sometimes stacks dinner dishes in the sink for me!!:laugh: Our families have their time, kids go and do, husbands play golf or whatever, and we are at home to greet them. When that changes a little, it's an adjustment for them. But it works out, and we all will be better for it in the long run. Promise..........
Have a good day,
Clynn :O)

Hooray on the 1.5 pound loss - we knew you could do it!!!!:)

Thinkthin,

Way to Go.. the 1.25 lbs is gone.. Now go forward and Don't look Back. :)

You're doing great. Keep it UP :up:

Hugs,

Ducky

I didn't get to do everything I wanted last night because the traffic was terrible coming home from work. I had to drop off a baby shower gift and that took me longer than expected. Then preparing my dinner took longer than expected.

I did get to watch my shows and Hunter got voted off- that was a big disappointment.

So I didn't exercise and I ate late. I was hungry so I wasn't going to go to bed with my stomach growling. Although it was a nice feeling to be in touch with what my body needed.

Then - here's my disappointment for today. I have been doing great on my health plan and motivation because of my friends at diettalk. The journals and the buddy group thread have been my focus. [Editing here] Let's just say I had a concern and feel like a whimp because of it. The interesting thing for me personally is why that even upset me at all. But it just seems like this is a typical theme in my life. When I have something I am attached to and is working for me, something else comes and changes it completely. Darn! [This may not make any sense to anybody reading, but it makes sense to me]

I know this little incident must be bringing up past hurts about other issues, but geesh, I didn't realize how much this meant to me till now. Or what is the real issue for me?

It's like when my father died, then my grandmother died two weeks later, then my dog died a month after that. I cried the most when my dog died.


:flower: thinkspring

Hey,

Don't be blue. If you enjoyed talking with the people in your buddy group - let them know!!! There are many different threads to communicate with people here.

Everyone here is here for the same thing - support. We all need different types of support to get us through our day

Me personally - I stick to the journals 90% of the time. It's just my style. Others do daily check-ins or chats. It's just what your comfortable with.

Hang in there - you've got buddies here:)



:bfly:

I hope you don't leave DT because of this, I didn't even know what you were illuding to because I stick mostly to the journals. I love this set up. We write about our day and read about others. Pretty good therapy for me:D
I think you are doing a good job with the journal, and you seem to like it. Don't give up on it, ok??
Have a better day,
Clynn :O)

Thanks again friends.

Now I feel a little silly about it all. I wanted to delete my comments but I decided to leave it because I have to respect my feelings, right or wrong, good or bad, at different times on my journey. This is just another experience on my journey.

Now I'm editing this to say I did go back and edit the other post. This is just too silly for me to make an issue. The real issue is I guess I felt left out and hey, that's something I have to deal with. That's part of my road to physical health, dealing with issues that made me heavy in the first place.

thinkspring

Thinkthin:

Your doing a great job. And one of the things we all have to deal with is what triggers us to be upset and eat or I should say overeat. You have identified one of the things that make you upset and that is great. Im glad your still coming here as I love reading your journal. It motivates me to see how well others are doing. :)
Have a great day.

Judy2:rose: :rose:

Those hormones must be raging this week. I have been so up and down emotionally. I also believe as I continue my weight loss journey, I am uncovering, not only layers of fat, but layers of hurts, fears, doubts. This journey of self discovery has left me emotional and sensative these past couple of days.

So, I ate last night, and ate, and ate. I am paying the price today. My stomach hurts and I am grouchy.

Last night, in fact this past week, I had so much I wanted and needed to do. It seems like nothing was accomplished. So when I got home last night I knew had planned to exercise and clean out a closet. But I was drained. All I really wanted to do was sit down and finish my book.

I was struggling back and forth between what I should do and what I wanted to do. I never honored my inner feelings. I was so confused. So I ate instead.

It was like I was bored and overwhelmed at the same time so I chose comfort.

I don't feel bad about eating. Because it really did satisfy me last night. It's not my choice today. And that's why I know what I did was important to my long term success. It was a set back and a break through at the same time.

I seem to have a lot of polarized feelings. No, I'm not clinically bi-polar and in need of professional help. I'm just sorting through the layers.

:flower: thinkspring

Thinkspring,

Hello. I'm glad to see that you didn't leave us!!!!. It is always hard to face our feelings - I'm glad that you are heading in that direction:) It can make all the difference in our goals.

I'm sorry that you were feeling left out. Sometimes it is hard to walk into a situation where you don't know anyone. ANd sometimes it takes awhile. I have been lurking around here for 9 months and I am not even close to knowing everyone here. But you start with a couple of people and you develope friendships over time.

Hang in there - you've got people here who care:)

:bfly:

Hi there,

I have a saying that I have used for a long time to get me out of my.. HO HUM feelings.. I used to have a poster with a gopher with the saying GOPHER IT.. I use that to.. remember that I am not alone in my weight loss goals.. that there are others out there who are at the same place I am.. and also mood wise.. too

At times, I find myself.. wanting that extra helping but then.. I remember.. IT IS FOR ME I am doing this. Not for anyone else. I am thinking ME FIRST.. especially at meal time. What I truly want is to be able to go into ANY STORE and bypass the womens larger sizes.. and get into a size 18 again, then maybe a 16 :)

I have found alot of support here on these journals, and no matter how I am NOW feeling, I find that this public journal is a place to talk about it because the responses to OUR FEELINGS.. will help us.

I have learned one thing in my Older Age.. patience! I know I didn't get to my weight overnight.. but.. achieving a goal is sure worth the.. effort!!! Especially with the friends I have met during my Weight Loss Journey. So, I hope this helps you.. it is meant as only suggestions.. that you can take or leave. :)

Hugs,

Thanks Ducky, and everyone for the wise words.

I was real unhappy on Friday night. I guess my husband was trying to be attentive, in his own way. But it just isn't working. He was only talking to me because he knew he would be gone for the weekend. Then of course, when he got home Sunday night, everything back like usual. He went right to the sofa to watch television.

I had a good cry Friday night and told myself that my marriage is not a good one. I don't know what direction I want to go with it. But first I have to, MUST, feel good about myself before I make any decision. (Of course, he doesn't help my self esteem. His motto is it's better to be honest. So in other words when I say I'm having a bad hair day. He says, yes, your hair does look bad today. He doesn't get it - that's the last thing a woman wants to hear.)

Anyway, I want to put the ralationship on the back burner because it is destructive to my overall health. This isn't denial. It's just that I can't focus successfully on two such major issues right now, diet and relationship.

On Saturday I went to a Swimming with Dolphins group. We prayed together and it really, dramatically, lifted my spirits. I feel so much better today. Becauase of the group I was able to stay focused on healthy habits this weekend too, eating plan and exercise.

I looked into a raw food diet. It's vegetarian, of course, but you don't even cook the vegetables. I bought the cookbook Raw which has always fascinated me.

I don't think I'm going to be able to strictly eat only raw foods. I like soups and meat too much. But I'm looking at a balance. It's fun experimenting.

:flower: thinkspring

Thinkspring:

Im so sorry your marriage is not what you want it to be right now. It's hard when your struggling with a marriage and trying to lose weight at the same time. I know as I have been there. I lost the weight and then took a good look at where in life I wanted to be. Unfortunately or fortunately it wasn't with my first husband. When I met my second husband I was so confident and felt and looked good that I took my time in deciding to get married again. Im glad I did as he is a gem. However the bad part was that I let myself go for a second time. DUH This time though I have my hubby's support and I get such great compliments all the time even when I don't really think I should......lol
I guess what I am trying to tell you thinkspring is you have to be happy for yourself before any other part of your life can be happy. I agree with what your doing by putting everything else on the back burner till you are where you want to be. Good luck with whatever you decide. I will be right here for you if you need a shoulder.

Judy2:rose: :rose:

Today is weigh-in and I'm ready. Only thing is I think I broke my scale at home I stepped up and down so many times. I weighed myself about 6 times and each time it gave me a different reading. But I believe I'll be ready for an official loss tonight.

Last night was tax man night, the first joint return since my wedding last year. I thought we would owe for sure. Luckily we almost broke even. The marriage penalty hurt because my husband would have gotten a refund if he were still single. And he let me know he wasn't happy about it. Get over it!

I also made a pound cake for work and didn't have a slice. Everyone told me it was good. I love to bake but I don't have to give it up just because I can't eat the whole thing anymore. :laugh:

:flower: thinkspring

thinkspring,
I just love your honest and emotion you post. Since I started to lose weight all these emotions have surfaced that have about consumed me at times. I know it is because I am getting out of my comfort zone. I just love you for expressing it as I get so afraid to be honest and put my feeling out there. Thanks for being brave for the rest of us. I know you can make your healthy goals and I promise to check back in and keep rooting for you. You know you might want to let whoever forgot about you know in just a silly post like "hey what about me" OR whatever was your situation. I am sure that you will have the whole things resolved and feel so much better. Everyone here promises not to think anything or tell
Love
CJ 5

Thanks CJ - I have taken care of my little issue. My issue was that I even had an issue. Sometimes I make things worse than they really are. Everything is good.

Happy Spring to everyone! It is time to clean out those closets and get rid of bad habits and negative thoughts. It is time for renewal and rebirth of a new me.

Speaking of a new me, I weighed 1.5 pounds less at TOPS last night. Yipee! I'm still going to have to get a new home scale though.

What can I say - I'm feeling confident and optimistic today - that I can keep the pounds off for good. I have a long way to go, but I've come a long way in my motivation too.

Tonight is pizza night for Survivor. But I'm only getting a small single so there won't be enough for my husband if I take more than one slice. New way of looking at eating.

Hopefully tonight I will get to exercise before my show starts. It's raining so a Chopper walk looks out of the question. Maybe I'll do an old stand by Richard Simmons tape. That's a good rainy day kind of upbeat exercise.

Happy Spring

:flower: thinkspring

Thinkspring:

Happy First Day of Spring to you also. I'm so glad you are feeling much better. And congrats on the way your gonna order pizza.:up: If it's not there you really don't want the leftovers.
also thanks so much for stopping by my journal. I have been through this many times with first my Dad and then my cousin then my Mom. I could do it then but this is my son and I pray nothing is wrong with him that's serious. I really don't think I could handle it like I should.

Judy2:rose: :rose:

GOOOOOOOD MOOOOORNIN,
well yahoo I am glad you are upbeat today I will be to then just so you aren't alone. AHHHH pizza please when you eat it savor it for me. Great idea not getting leftovers that just shows how motivated you are. Have a wonderful spring day think spring and I will catch you later
CJ 5

Wow, what a great time of year
:rose: :rose: :rose:
1.5 lbs gone!! wahoo!!! g
Great job, I am tootin' the horns for you down in Texas:tongue:arty:
Thanks for your post in my journal, I needed that! You are in such a great mood, and I can totaly understand why. Keep it up, and you'll be wearing that cute little bikini before long........
It has been 75 in Texas for the last week, but today, of all days we start out in the 50's :c( .
I am sooooo ready for that good old hot Texas summer.
Have a great, fantastic, wonderful day, you deserve it.
Clynn :O)

Good Afternoon,


I was just stopping by to see how everything is going with you. It sounds like you are making progress:)

Have a good rest of the week!!!!

:bfly:

Clynn, I haven't worn a bikini since I was three years old. I got so much attention then that it scared me and I never wanted to be oogled like that again. So a nice little 1920's woolen suit will be just fine. :ha:

Thanks to everyone for stopping by.

My Survivor night pizza went fine. I even got full half way through my second slice. Hubby wasn't thrilled with the small pizza though. I reminded him he's in training for softball.

I missed breakfast this morning, something I promised I wouldn't do. But I really was not hungry at all. Then I was hungry at my regular lunch time and had my sandwich. Couldn't finish my apple. I'm trying to figure out what my body is saying, but I just don't know. I don't want to slow the metabolism by not eating, but I'm just not that hungry. We'll see at dinner.

I do have energy so that should carry me through my exercise tonight.

Hm? Some interesting new body signals here that I'll have to figure out.

:flower: thinkspring

Way to Go "Spring" :rose:

1.5 gone is super..

Remember,
Succes is doing the best you can,
in as many ways as you can.
It is being just and honest and true - -
not in a few things, but in everything you do.

You are doing great.. just keep it up... We only have 86,000 seconds a day to dream, act and react.. so.. use those seconds as a path to your future.. and to the Present it gives us each day.

Hugs,

Since you stopped by to say hello and congrats to me, I thought I would return the favor.

Congratulations on your fantastic loss..... 1 1/2 pounds gone forever .

BE PROUD OF YOUR TERRIFIC ACCOMPLISHMENT ..... irregardless of how much weight we're going to lose, every pound lost brings us closer to achieving our goal!

Make it a great day ... and have a fantastic week. Always, Monica

Hi Spring,

Just stopping by to say Hello.. before I get on to my exercises..
time with Leslie Sansone and my ab-doer. Today we are going to go to town.. with the grandbrats... and we plan to take them out to Home Town Buffet.. I will eat their salad bar.

Remember, Today is the first day of the rest of your life.. So live it in a healthier way. You can achieve your weight loss goals.. I know it.. and I feel it.. keep your spirits up by doing something for YOU.

Hugs,

All I can say is my joining diettalk is one of the best things I have done for me in a long time. You are all so wonderful and special.

For the past few years, I have been struggling. All I said I really needed was something to motivate me, some one thing to ignite my butt. I found that here at diettalk.

My butts on fire! I'd better drink my water to keep it under control.

Think:spring:

spring cutie you are doing great. I think that DT gives me a chance to get support and know that people care about me and want me to succeed. I am so glad you are here. you make a great adition to the team

Finally, I good weekend. I stayed motivated, determined and happy, in spite of the winter-like cold.

I made Easter cookies this weekend and only had a small taste test sample of each batch. I decorated them extra special to take my mind off eating them. My family and friends will appreciate the treats.

I took long walks with Choppper Saturday and Sunday, even in my long johns. I ate healthy fresh vegetable and fruit salads and grilled huge Delmonico steaks for my hubby on Saturday. Only had a fistful.

What I'm realizing is that changing my eating habits over this past month, has gradually changed my cravings and amount. This happened slowly. The more I work toward a healthy lifestyle, the more natural it feels. And the food tastes better too.

Think:spring:

Tonight is my TOPS meeting. But 3-5 inches of snow is predicted. I hope the meeting isn't canceled. Now, that is the first time I said that.

Each member gets "the box" for three weeks. It was my turn. I am on week three and have lost again. I win $10. But if the meeting is canceled, I know I can do this another week, that's not the problem. It's just that I have been building for this moment of glory. I'll take any little reward. It all feels good.

Hopefully, roads will be salted and the usual prediction will pass us by with just a scratch.

It's also our celebration meeting of new officers. I made a veggie/ham roll appetizer. I fussed, so I would like to be able to serve that.

I exercised last night, 20 min on the bike. I didn't do it hard, hardly sweated. But my legs were tired. I consider that I just went and did something an accomplishment.

I also ate real healthy, egg for breakfast, vegetable soup for lunch and turkey pita with veggies for dinner, and a small galss of skim milk. I'm not a milk lover, but when you limit yourself, like I said yesterday, the food tastes better.

I am actually tasting the food now. I notice some flavors, that I used to just wolf down, are not as appealing to me anymore. Learing new things about me every day. I also read though, that as we get older our taste buds die and flavors do change. So that could be part of it too. Interesting.

I guess I'm turning into a fussy eater. That's better than, I'll eat anything, anywhere, anytime kind of attitude.

Here's hoping for an official weigh-in tonight. It should be a good one.

think:spring:

I did it. We had our meeting and I did it. I lost another 4 pounds, the third week in a row for a loss. I won "the box." Only I didn't get the recognition I had hoped for because they thought it was my second week and they wanted to hurry to the dedication ceremony.

But I know, after a year with that darn group, I did something positive. Now I know why that group doesn't exactly keep me motivated. But I still go because I like the weekly official weigh-in.
It's important for me to be accountable.

One day a week I give myself a treat. I planned it for last night. And you know what? I didn't have a taste for the chocolate bunny. After the meeting, I worked out, had a light dinner of pasta and veggies and didn't really crave anything else. So I didn't just eat it anyway, like I would have in the past.

I have also been baking a lot, without eating the cookies. Now I know why I've been baking, because it's that time of the month. I have still been thinking about the sweets, but haven't touched them. The cookies are going to friends and family so I don't have to worry about after Easter temptation.

My stats:
262/251.5/199/140 (start weight/current/short goal/long goal)

think:spring:

Yabadabadooooooo let the bells ring out Thinkspring has lost another 4 pounds. You rock girl. Wooooooo Whooooooooo.
Congrats on the big loss. You have worked so hard for this. Keep up the great work.

Judy2:rose: :rose:

thinkspring,
Great for you and way to go complimenting yourself and giving yourself the praise you so absolutely deserve:ribbon: :ribbon: :balloons: :balloons:

I too have become a much pickier eater and I now realize that I used to wolfe down foods I no longer crave.... I give myself a little off diet food here and there but just don't go over my cals. Isn't DT great as it gives us so much support and friendship. I am really happy for you and know you are doing some great things to improve your health
CJ 5

I am going to be brief with so much pre-Easter activity. I did well this week accept for a pig out on Wednesday – Yesterday and today, back on the right road to health. I don’t see any problems staying on plan this weekend. I have already allotted for some extras on Sunday. My one day of the week to indulge, but not binge.

I’m even getting all my exercise in which is surprising. Actually the exercising is helping my to stay calm and focused with this hustle and bustle.

:bunny: ~:>

HAVE A WONDERFULL EASTER

Judy2:rose: :rose:

Easter day was really nice. A nice holiday for a change.

My husband and I went to my brother's for brunch. It is the first time my husband is spending time with my family. We usually always go to his mother's. She puts the big guilt trip on if you don't indulge her.

We had a great time talking and laughing. My husband even said on the way home, he didn't really want to go to his mother's. And we didn't! He talked to her in the morning and we sent her a card so it wasn't like we were ignoring her. We had other plans for once! I was so happy my husband could see a nice family life for a change, not one where there's always a drama.

I even took a walk with Chopper in the morning. I ate sensibly for brunch. I planned for the sweets yesterday. I had cookies but didn't seem to want the chocolate, which was odd. I want the chocolate today though, but I won't.

I ate a little more than ham and kialbasa than I should have but it was so good and fresh tasting. Plus it's all gone now so I don't have any leftovers to overindulge.

All in all, a wonderful holiday and not too bad on the exercise and eating part either.

think:spring:

I have been plenty busy these past couple of days. That's good. Keeps me off the street.

I lost 1.75 pounds at my weigh-in last night. Even with Easter, that was great! I really believe I am going to stick with this, this time. I have had a constant weight loss since joining diettalk about 6 weeks ago. Thanks for everyone's support.

That's what I don't like about my TOPS meeting. The women have been there for 5, 6 12, 15 years. The same old grousing. They are stagnant. I only go for the weigh in and the occasional contests. I challenge myself. The group does not motivate me, and I am finding it more difficult to stay for meetings. It is a very tired bunch. My tactic is to motivate the group by my actions. I don't want to be a 10 year member. So actually, because I see how tired and hopeless they have become, it motivates me to not want to be like them. So the group does motivate me afterall.

Chopper is loving his walks. We has really become my pal. I am beginning to look forward to those times together with him too. Having a buddy, human or animal, really helps me.

That's my thought for the day - the buddy system works!

Think:spring:

Spring
your dog is awesome How could you turn down a walk with someone so cute!!! When you post pics you have to post one of chopper too. Well great job lady on the weight loss and motivation, we joined DT about the same time so I am excited to see your progress. I know what you mean about weight loss groups I joined one last year and I felt like a lot of it was a group just sitting around commiserating and making excuses they were truly in a rut. The weigh in and accountability is good but I defenitly think that DT is way more motivating I love the challenges on here
CJ

I am so sleepy today. I've been getting up early for work this week. I read when you're tired sometimes you overeat, when your body really just wants to rest. So comitted to exercising 6 days this week, this may be the day I take off and relax.

Another major event accomplished at work. Many behind the scene hassels that nobody even knows about because the final ceremony went well. I had two crackers with cheese because everyone said it was great. Now all I taste is garlic. That's my punishment.

Too tired to even finish.

thinkspring

How life can completely change from one week to the next.

Last week my hubby and I were just looking at the options our taxman suggested about buying a bigger house for investments. Today, we just put in an offer for a house. Just like that. Poof! We found a house.

I don't know if they will accept the offer, but if not this one, my husband is determined, another house very soon. And all the work we have fixing up his house! Most of my stuff is still packed from when I moved in a year ago. But his bachelor pad needs a lot of work!

I am happy beacuse we will have "our" home and I believe that will be better for the relationship. But I dread all the work. Because of this sudden change, I have not been sleeping, eating right or exercising.

Of course that all changes from this moment. I was doing so well, concentrating on what makes me happy. Now here we go again focusing on what will make my hubby happy. Though I know in the long run, this is a good positive move for me too. I just never seem to be ready for major changes. I have had so much sudden change in my life that I cope, but I still don't like to deal with it. It always feels like it's me against the world.

Well, I am back to focusing on what is important, health, exercise. The rest will have to go with my flow.

thinkspring

That's my theme for today - I need to get back to the basics. My title of this thread is thinkthin, because I believe being thin starts, and ends in the mind. You have to want it, believe it, think it.

I got caught up on other thoughts, house, hubby, work, holiday, activities. I forgot about me, again. And I didn't think thin. I thought - cope.

My weigh in didn't go well - only a 1/4 pound loss. That was only after working hard on Monday and Tuesday because the rest of the week was a joke as far as diet and exercise. ( I actually gained 4 pounds over the weekend.)

My weight loss has always got to be the center of my world right now. It is not a habit yet. I MUST consciously be aware of what choices I make, because they do not come naturally to me yet.

So today I again start thinking thin.

thinkspring

Spring,

I hope you don't mind if I stopped by ..... I want to share with you one thing ..... NEVER EVER SAY THE WORDS ONLY WHEN DESCRIBING YOUR WEIGHT LOSS 1/4 POUND LOST IS A POSITIVE ....describe it as FANTASTIC 1/4 OF POUND LOST:o .

Start thinking of each day as a page in your book of life -- you determine what the page is and how good it is going to be. EACH OF US IS REALLY CAPABLE OF MAKING EVERY DAY THE VERY BEST.

Also looking back to yesterday ONLY CREATES A PROBLEM .... we learn from our yesterdays ... and we MOVE FORWARD EACH AND EVERY DAY.

How about putting your menu in your Journal? Listing how many ounces of water you drink daily ..... noting the exercise regimen you are fulfilling. AND ANOTHER THOUGHT TO CONSIDER ... every time you have a loss .... put $0.50 to a $1.00 in a jar or bank ... and at the end of the month or so ... give yourself a REWARD OF YOUR CHOOSING. (You will find it adds up ..... )

:stop: PUTTING YOURSELF DOWN ....... YOU ARE GOING TO SUCCEED .... IT TAKES TIME, IT TAKES PATIENCE .... BUT IT WILL HAPPEN BECAUSE YOU ARE GOING TO MAKE IT HAPPEN.

Make tomorrow a great day and :) FOR ALL THE TOMORROW'S TO COME . Always, Monica

I didn't realize that it had been so long since I wrote in my journal. It's funny I was thinking of writing to Monicapink today for some advice and, bam, there she is already giving me advice in my journal. It is what I need to hear. The diettalk support is what helped me my first month here. It is what keeps me going. Though I have to make my own decisions, I can't do this alone.

I have been eating and eating this past week. I know now it is hormones. Yet, last month during this period, I was able to stop. I won't get down on myself for reverting back to old habits. It's just that I NEED TO REMEMBER, that if I really care enough, I CAN change those habits.

I don't have much to say this morning, just wanted to say I'm still here, still kicking, and still screaming for the thin person to come out.

thinkspring

Spring,

I need to get going around here .. but I wanted you to know I appreciate your leaving a message for me on my Journal page.

My friend ..... I AM HERE FOR YOU WHENEVER YOU NEED ME ..... email me at monicapink6@hotmail.com. One thing I can say about me ..... I know how to listen and I know how to keep my mouth closed (LOL except it is somewhat difficult to do when trying to insert food) . Nothing is DIFFICULT ..... unless WE MAKE IT DIFFICULT.

A :rose: for you for this day and every day ...... MAKE IT A GREAT DAY .....AND I AM SO GLAD TO SEE YOU BACK. As always, Monica

Spring don't ya hate that I ate for 2 days before I started TOM and had no idea why I was craving everything in site. I am sure you will get back OP.
Monica you are so awesome. I was on chat the other night and someone logged on and ask "is there another monica chat tonight" They were quite disapointed when we said no I think so many people love you and appreciate what you do here on DT I know I do

Cj

Hi Spring,

The last time you posted was April 23rd; now I don't ever want to intrude on anyone ...... but I want you to come on back.

I know YOU CAN SUCCEED..... you may not be losing as quickly as you may want to .... BUT FOR EACH DAY we can make it WHATEVER WE WANT TO. If you need recipes .... I have some. If you need a listening ear :laugh: I have two (and they are both clean). and whereas I don't have all the answers to all the questions I KNOW THE JOURNEY TO SUCCESS CAN BE ACHIEVED ONE DAY AT A TIME.

Please write and post something. YOU ARE MISSED. Make it a great day. Always, Monica

Think,

WHERE ARE YOU...... won't you please write or post a message in my Journal.

I am thinking about you. So please write. Always, Monica