Christmas 2016 to Valentine's Day 2017 Challenge

[Bobbinyc]

Welcome all Challengers!  What an amazing group we have!

Let's all continue together to take off the excess pounds and keep getting healthier.

This challenge will begin on Christmas and finish on Valentine's Day, Feb. 14. 

All you need to join this challenge is to post your stats regarding your weight, and check in weekly or as often as you'd like. We are a great support group and enjoy keeping up with each other and being there for our ups and downs.  Generally we have found that the more we check in and offer support, tips, info,  and ideas to others, the more we get for ourselves.

We list our weight, as well as any other goals we might have related to being healthy (such as increase water, more active minutes, etc).  Developing good health habits is primary.

A little rundown of terminology for anyone who is new.

USW- Ultimate Starting Weight

CSW- Current Starting Weight (for this challenge)

GW- Goal Weight   (for Feb 14)

UGW- Ultimate Goal Weight   (what your healthy target weight is)

PW- Previous Weight

CW- Current Weight

MFP- My Fitness Pal

List as much info as you like.  Some people include age, gender, height....whatever seems relevant to you.

We keep it as serious or light as we feel, but we always keep it focused on being as healthy as possible, while we support each other kindly.  We can do this together!!

[Brujita]

@HeartBiller things are good on my end. Not sick anymore and pushing on getting my steps in. Glad to hear that you are doing good this week. Its the weekend now. so here to hoping we are closer to our goal come goal day!

[Brujita]

@BLLingg Thank you! I was sick that previous week so it took a toll on any movment. I'm back on track now.

[GettingfitinSC]

 SW/USW= 235 (Christmas 2016)

GW= 225 (2/14/2017)

PW= 224.8 (Met Goal Weight!)

CW= 224.3

UGW= 125

I dropped a little this week, just a half pound, but I'm happy with that for two reasons. First- I've met and maintained my goal weight for 2 weeks. Second- I had a bad beginning of the week and worried that I would put on a couple of pounds or something, so I'm just happy I didn't do that. 🙂 

Even though I maintained my weight and dropped a little, I am eager to move on to losing more. 225 was my temorary goal weight; I still have 100 pounds to go!

A couple of bad/good things happened this week.

Bad= I gave into temptation one day and stopped by McDonalds, even though it wasn't meal time and that's not a good choice for a meal even if it is meal time. Good- In the past, I would have gotten a large combo, or at least a large sandwich or something. This time, I simply got a McChicken- no fries or drink. I felt guilty, but I was happy that when I checked calories, it was only 360. Not too bad to recover from. 

Bad=  On Tuesday, I did not meet my step goal- no good reason, I just was too lazy to get the last 1000 steps. Plus, I had a hungry attack and gave in to temptation again to get a Little Debbie snack cake (and ate both in the pack). Good- I got one from the cafeteria at school; I didn't buy a whole box at the grocery store, so I don't have the temptation of others. This was my first Debbie cake since before Christmas, and I'm okay with giving in. Another good- I was able to cut back enough calories the rest of the day that I didn't actually go over my limit. 

Bad- Yet again on Wednesday, I had a hunger attack and ate several snacks at one time instead of just one. Also, didn't meet my step goal again. Good- I only keep healthy or low calorie snacks in my classroom, so it wasn't too bad and I didn't go over my calories for the day. 

At this point in the past, when I've worked to lose weight and had a couple of bad days, this was the point where I would have given up or said this week is shot; I'll start again next week or next month, etc. Instead, I determined to make up for my missed steps and go at it again. 

So, Thursday, it was game on again. I got 15,700 steps. Friday, I got 14,000 steps. Today, I already have 11,000 steps and hope to get to 15,000 again. I'm back up to my weekly goal of 70,000+ steps, and I did lose 1/2 pound despite the rough start to the week. 

Note to self- don't give up, even after a bad day or two or three... Keep going! Good luck everyone on the last couple of days!

[dancefoxtrot]

@GettingfitinSC

Good for you not giving up and limiting the giving in.  Try to figure what is causing the hunger attacks?  Is it stress or some emotion or are you not getting enough healthy food during your meals and snacks? Sometimes we need a few glasses of water and it feel like hunger.  Have you tried drinking water and a small healthy snack and waiting 20 minutes to see if that works.

Don't listen to the voice of defeat that tells you to quit and start again next week.  That voice is NOT your friend.  Good internal parents are not easily conned by "I'll start over next week" 

You are getting stronger and wiser. 

Best,

Barbara G

[A_Lurker]

@GettingfitinSC- same kind of comments as @dancefoxtrot just made.  There's something that's pushing your hunger cues up.  I'd say hydration at first, although I've never been good with completely eliminating a little bit of junk food from my diet.  I know if I said that I'm never going to have (fill in the blank) again it would almost certainly just make me crave it more.  I just make sure that if I feel like something that I work a small amount of it in. 

If/when you get to the point I find that having some single serving bags of things the easiest (although not cheapest).  For a while I was making my own in small 1/2 cup containers.  I would fill them right after dinner one week (so not tempted to eat as I was filling).  I would weigh out enough that each container was 100 calories.  That way I could put them in my desk at work and take them when needed.  I still purchase boxes of welch's fruit snacks and brookfield chocolate covered fruit at Costco.  They are 70 and 90 calories each and feel like a treat.  This of course only works if you can only take one at a time. 

[_Lilac_]

I drank over 100 oz of water today, peed about 10 times, ate two chicken wings, 1/4 the amount of lasagna served to everyone else (this was at a dinner not made by me as I don't eat pasta), and I got in my 11,000 steps. Mom said she needs to take a rest day tomorrow so we won't be going walking. I have housework to do anyway and I need to get in a few workouts. We are waiting on that storm tomorrow night...ok, hang onto your seats...the expected snowfall amount is 50cm/20inches. It's being categorized as a blizzard because the winds will be high. Fun fun. Glad I have food. Maybe I should do some meal prep during the day in case we lose power during the storm and I can't cook. 

The dogs are wanting me to go to bed so I might give in and cuddle up with them. 

All Canadian eyes will be on the news to see how our Prime Minister is treated tomorrow when he goes to DC. He could certainly win an arm wrestling contest if he gets one of those handshakes and it goes too far! 

Have a great night all. Three days left. *crosses fingers*

[almost_where]

Christmas Weight = 267

Sunday-1 - 270 -  (01/01)
Sunday-2 - 269 -  (01/08) (Weigh in was on 1/10 due to no scale avail)
Sunday-3 - 264 -  (01/15)
Sunday-4 - 262 -  (01/22)
Sunday-5 - 268 - (01/29)
Sunday-6 - 260 - (02/05)
Sunday-7 - 259  - (02/12)
Valentine's Day Goal 255

-1 lb

Well I tried my best this challenge but fell a bit short of my goal which I'm ok with. Few speed bumps along the way but I learned a few things which I will try to apply towards next challenge. Congrats to all of you who participated in this challenge and collectively provided such a good support nework.  Hope to see ya in the next challenge.

[SunsetRunner]

@almost_where Even though you didn't hit your goal weight for this challenge you're still down 11 lbs and that's awesome! Congratulations! 

[Bobbinyc]

@almost_where  Amazing job, yet again.  For me, it's not just about the weight, but that you got yourself back on track quickly enough and learned from it.  I think that's what we need to expect of ourselves - that we keep looking at our choices honestly, and learn how to set ourselves up for more success, and just keep learning and growing.  That takes a lot of courage and honesty, which you obviously have.

[_Lilac_]

At the end of a 30 min workout in my livingroom my dogs decided they wanted to go for their walk, but knowing that the roads are snow-covered, I knew that they'd make it no more than 4-5 houses before limping with cold toes and wanting to head back in. I got us all ready and within 4-5 houses I had to return them...surprise surprise. I put them in the house and took off for my own walk, though. So that was good. Freedom to walk at a good pace with the resistance of walking in snow! It's actually a beautiful day and not too cold. I have cooked some chicken breasts, boiled eggs, boiled some veggies all in preparation for a possible power outage. The storm is supposed to start tonight and rage all day tomorrow. I have projects to do if there's no power and I'm charging up my devices. Nobody will be going to work. 

I was contemplating going to the art/craft store this afternoon. It requires a bus trip and I'd likely get the rest of my steps for the day. But I'd spend money. I do have a coupon. Hmmm...decisions. Alright, I'll check in later. 

Update: I did go out. I caught the bus and went to the craft store. Spent money on canvases and paints, etc. I was asked by a dude for bus change. He was 50 cents short. I used my punch pass for him instead of giving him change, so that was my good deed for the day. I didn't take his $2. He looked like he needed it.

I'm frustrated. My ankle is hurting like heck and I don't know why. This week I've been facing so many hurdles and tests of my determination. I seem to be dumped on suddenly. And I KNOW it. So I'm frustrated that I'm frustrated in the first place! Does that make sense? I put some of that medicated heat rub all over my ankle (while trying to keep my dog from licking it!), got my hot tea, putting my feet up and relaxing. I have almost 10,000 steps so I can rest a bit. I have to keep reminding myself that there's NO WAY I'm going to relapse. I just keep on going. 

I got inspiration for a new painting while I walked home. I'm looking forward to working on it. That will be tomorrow. Have a good night everyone!

[IdahoSandy]

Weekly weigh in:

CHRISTMAS TO VALENTINES
USW 208 lbs (5/22/16)
CSW 181.9 (1/1/17)
PW 177.7 (1/8/17)
PW 177.5 (1/15/17)
PW 174.7 (1/22/17)
PW 173.6 (1/29/17)
PW 172.5 (2/5/17)
CW 170.2 (2/12/17)
GW 169.9 (by 2/14/17)
UGW 158 (5/22/17)

I'll do one final weigh in on 2/14/17. Have a great day everyone!

[GettingfitinSC]

Thanks @dancefoxtrot. To be more accurate, it wasn't really a 'hunger' attack, more like a 'munchy' attack. I think it was aided by the fact that I didn't walk in the morning, like I've been doing nearly every day since Christmas. Last week, between not feeling well one day and running late another day, I didn't get a chance to walk before school, and I think that just made it easier to give in to old habits. I do need to drink more water, but I'm pretty good about getting 5-8 glasses each day. And yes, drinking water and eating a small snack definitely works; that's what I usually do, but just didn't those times. 

Thanks for the encouragement!

[BLLingg]

My usual Roller Coaster Week.  Wednesday I was down to 172.2, Saturday I was up to 175.2.  I'm getting used to this now.  Not as dizzy as I was last Week. 

It was looking like a really bad Week for a couple of Days.  I lost my WiFi at Home and couldn't watch my Input to see how I was doing nor could I check on my Steps & Cals Burned vs Cals in.  I'm afraid my Attitude took a nose dive from "I think I can" to "Who cares!"  Good thing that didn't last long (no longer than it took to get the WiFi fixed!!!).  Otherwise, I wouldn't be very happy today!

28 July 2010 - PW - 280.8  (My highest known.)
06 June 2016 - USW (in FitBit) - 216
27 Dec - CSW - 183.4
02 Jan - Goal - 182.2 - PW 182.6
09 Jan - Goal - 181.0 - PW 181.0
16 Jan - Goal - 179.8 - PW 178.2
23 Jan - Goal - 178.6 - PW 175.4
30 Jan - Goal - 177.4 - PW 175.4
06 Feb - Goal - 176.2 - PW 174.6
13 Feb - Goal - 175 - CW 173.2 
14 Feb - GW - 175

13 22 May - 1st UGW - (but still not a "Healthy" BMI) - 150

I don't think I'm going to make my May Goal.  First, I'm flying out on the 13th not the 22nd.  (AIRHEAD!)  Secondly, I would have to average almost 2# per Week but I'm not even averaging 1.5#.  Having said that, however, I'm not throwing in the Towel yet!!!  As @Cele21 said, "every loss is a win!" 

Hope y'all join me in "Valentines Day to April 18th"!!!  I need you!!!

[terryrunning]

I'm new to this and hoping to start with the next challenge.  I've looked over some of the older ones.  These groups are just great with the way you all are so supportive and kind.  I love that they go from holiday to holiday.  That makes it so easy to focus on. Much better than just random days.

I assume Bobbinyc is starting the next one.  Or dancerfoxtrot I saw started some. I want to make sure I can find it.  Will it go until Mother's Day?  Or maybe Earth Day?  I didn't notice how long they are.  

What do I do to join?

Thanks.

Terry

[Cele21]

USW- 215.0

CSW- 213.4

LW- 211.4

CW- 211.4

GW- 199.4

UGW- 150

Body might be starting to adjust to the additional movement and leveling off, or it might just be the multiple bad food choices this week. Who knows 😄

[alegria16]

USW (6/19/16) = 204 lbs
SW (12/26/16) = 193

1/2/17 = 192

1/9/17 = 191

1/16/17 = 192

1/23/17 = 193

1/30/17 = 194

CW 2/13/17 = 193
GW (2/14/16) = 187
UGW = 155

Yet another challenge goal not met. But at least I got a day in this past week with nearly 16k steps, and yesterday I logged 32 flights of stairs after I remembered to put the Fitbit on.

[GettingfitinSC]

@A_Lurker Thank you. I do use single serve packs. Individual bags of baked lays was what I ate a couple of bags of. The calories are 110-130, and they help when I'm wanting something salty/crunchy. I'm usually good about eating only one bag, but overdid it last week. I also take crackers and hummus or mixed nuts, which I put in 1/4 cups containers. I try to have fruit with me each day as well. My indulgence is fun size candy bars, which works as long as I only eat one of them. 🙂 You're right about craving what I say I can't eat. That just makes me want it all the more.  

[GettingfitinSC]

@terryrunning I just started the challenge at Christmas, and it's a great help to have the support of a group. All I did to join was show up and start posting. I'm looking forward to the next challenge as well. 🙂 

[HeartBiller]

Well, I survived the weekend. My twin grand daughters had their 10th birthday party...It was so sweet. They are sure growing up fast. I DID eat cake and ice cream which I should not have had.. Probably will pay for that, but I I will overcome it. I can't say I was horrible over the weekend, but I sure wish I could get more will power on the weekends. I know I could have done a lot better than I did.  As of today, the scale is not looking like I will make the goal for tomorrow, however I will not fuss or complain. I will join the next challenge with pride and go one day at a time and one pound at a time. I am going to be very good today in hopes that the scale will at least move down a little bit more before tomorrow's weigh in. I am one of the crazy people who weigh on different scales.. So I only count my weight on the scale at one office which is where I weighed when I started this journey...lol. So tomorrow, I just happen to be in that office. So I will give the official weight there tomorrow and tonight pray for the best of it...lol.

Today starts a new day for me and a new week to try to get refocused from the weekend. I can do so much better during the week and while at work than I can on the weekends...lol. I am weak on weekends...lol. However, I am looking forward to the next challenge and @BLLingg Said something about Valentines to April 18th... That works good for me..lol. I am not picky, I will join no matter what.. BUT April 25th will be our one year make on this journey we are on. So I am hoping to be able to at least be done 50 pounds by then. Just a personal goal. I know some lose a lot more a lot faster, but we seem to be slower at this, which hopefully means we will be adjusted and able to keep the weight off permanently. (just personal opinion...lol)

Have a great day and See you all tomorrow for the weight in (good or bad..lol)

[_Lilac_]

I felt like checking in but don't know what to report. I was up super early this morning and trying to keep the dogs busy during this very stormy day. I've had one 36 min workout so far. I need lunch soon and I'm watching the news to see how our Prime Minister is received in DC. I'll be having a nap at some point since I didn't sleep well. 

Not so sure I'll make goal. I was 3 lbs above goal this morning but still having water retention issues. I've probably made it but it's not official til I see that 310 on the scale. I did reach 311 last week! LOL.

I'm looking forward to a new challenge. Fresh challenge, fresh start. I need to truly focus on water consumption and increase some veggies too. 

I think I might go to the pool for water aerobics more often too. In the last month I'd gone less and less but walked with Mom almost daily. My weight loss hasn't been as steady. I find when I go to the pool, it's almost like a diuretic...I'm in the bathroom more. That might be part of my issue with retention. I know, I'm probably overthinking everything again but I am trying to figure out the right balance. If it was easy, we wouldn't be here supporting each other in our struggles. 

Ok, I think it's nap time and then another workout later. My back door is snowed in. The wind is howling and the snow is really coming down now. Good time for a nap, huh? Everything is shut down. Catch ya later!