Labor Day to Halloween Challenge 2016

[Bobbinyc]

Welcome to the next Challenge!

This one will start on Labor Day and continue to Halloween, 2016.  That gives us 8 weeks to work toward our next set of goals as we try to lose weight or maintain in a healthy way.

Everyone is welcome to join this terrific group. You can post once weekly or every day - whatever you like - to share your journey, give and get support, offer advice, get some tips.  We have celebrated each other's successes, and empathized with the setbacks.  I personally found, the more I respond to others, the easier it is for me to focus on my own journey in a positive way.  We have seen great progress in previous challenges, because we are in it together and focusing on being healthier and living better lives.

Some of the terms used to report our weight:

USW - ultimate starting weight - the heaviest weight when you began to lose

SW - starting weight for this challenge

CW - current weight for the day you report in

GW - goal weight for this challenge, for Halloween

UGW - ultimate goal weight that you intend to reach eventually

Some people also include their height, their age, their BMI.  

All  you need to do to join, is start posting, usually with some of the weight information.

I'm very excited about continuing with this wonderful group of people and meeting some new folks too.

Thanks to dancefoxtrot for starting the last challenge.

See you here on Labor Day!

[khreed]

@HeartBiller Thanks. If you find any good deals on Xarelto, let me know. I have checked the goodRx site.

I'm going to visit my cardiologist next week and see what she thinks of my latest adventure. I've only been on this drug 4 days, and so far it doesn't seem to bother me in any way. Now to keep my motivation up.

[khreed]

@HeartBiller Having a stroke is one of my greatest fears -- even more than getting cancer which definitely runs in my family. So I will try to be a "compliant patient" and continue to work on a healthy lifestyle. Thanks to all of you, I'm doing a better job of that.

[Bobbinyc]

Seems like a good number of us have flagging motivation and are struggling.  

I made a list of all the reasons I want to lose weight.  They ranged from the superficial (look better in jeans or a dress) to the important (more energy and move more easily) to the critical (strokes run in my family and I had a cancer scare that was minor but left be debilitated for months) to silly - I want to outlive my ex  

I put the list where I can see it every day.  Usually on any day, one will hit me.

I also thought about members of this challenge - how much you have been through, how hard you try (most of the time), how much you do.  I know motivation only gets you started, then it is good habits that keep you going.  So I am back to my basic habits that I have been working on - more water, stretch and move every morning first thing, prep food, etc.  I picture dancefoxtrot's poison sign and all the things she does - dancing, gardening, working on her house, teaching dance classes,  I picture lilac walking through parks even when her feet hurt, I remember how supportive and kind khreed is, I remember DJC saying she was horribly stressed "so what did I do? I went to the gym", and Bogdel learning so much about healthy eating, and A Lurker walking her basement, and Almost Where's amazing food prep and consistency....I could go on.  And I don't mean to leave out anyone.  This is a truly amazing group.

In any given moment, one of you is pushing through, facing stresses, being strong and inspiring me. And I thank all of you.

So, I don't feel like walking?  Big deal.

The point of this is that giving in to just doing what I felt like in the moment is one of the things that got me to be overweight in the first place.  This is about doing what makes sense for my health.

I never told a boss, or a family member I was caring for "I don't feel like"  - I did whatever I could, without thinking about how I felt.

So, when it comes to my health, my new rule is I can no longer say it to myself either.

[_Lilac_]

Week 7 Day 4: (no way, is it really??)

My mother has returned from her trip to Pennsylvania! So I have my walking partner back. I kept walking without her, but it was mostly downtown to go to the library, shopping, taking the dogs out on extra long trips, etc. While she was gone, she didn't do a lot of activity so she is glad to be back and we'll return to our routine. For our walk, we went to one of the natural parks and walked around a small lake that has an island in the middle and many ducks who wait for their snacks. In the winter this lake freezes over and they often have ice skating for the public. We were almost done when my fitbit started to buzz and I held it up to show her my 10000 steps announcement. This includes my water aerobics class this morning and walking to the pool and back and taking the dogs around the block. 

While my mom was in PA she picked up a step tracker/heart rate monitor. She doesn't know what brand it is and hasn't charged it yet, but we'll both be packin' tech!! 

My niece is in the beginning stages of labour to have her first child. I used to be a doula and assisted close to 35 women in childbirth, so I can't help but get excited. When I give her info she's probably rolling her eyes and getting annoyed with me, but I just can't help it! This will be the first baby born of this generation in our family. There were three of us sisters. We all had children and now one of them is having this little boy. I'm getting old! It was just yesterday when I had my son, who is now 24yrs old.

We stopped at my aunt's house and in the front yard was a quince bush. I never noticed it before. The fruit is super hard but I sniffed it and FELL IN LOVE. Mom said people used to make a jam out of them and send jars to the guys fighting during the 2nd world war because they were packed with more vitamin C than oranges. We gathered a bag of them for me and I'm going to do something with them. You can simmer them down with a touch of sugar and water to make a syrupy, fruity dessert. They naturally have a spicy (like cinnamon and nutmeggy) scent. And when cooked, the flesh turns pink. I'll let you know how it turns out. 

I've got over 70k steps in the last week. That's the first time since the challenge started. I've impressed myself! Tomorrow I'll go shopping for baby stuff and walk over to the hospital or to my niece's place if she's not at the hospital yet. Gotta love getting in those steps!!!

I think that's all I have to report....blah blah blah. 

[hannahbebrave]

Thanks to everyone for your responses to me about exercise.  I honestly had no idea people actually move that much.  I mean, without being athletes.  Now I have a good perspective and I can expect more of myself.  It's also helpful to hear that 10,000 is the total for the day.  I would work my way up to 5 mile walks,  but it would take me the entire day! You all had such great ideas.  I feel so supported and that helps when at home I just get teased.  I don't mind it though because I still have to do what I think is right.  It is nice to be getting to know so many determined people who have a vision of a better way.  I feel like  a door is opening somehow.  

[_Lilac_]

@hannahbebrave Five miles is FAR and difficult to someone who isn't used to walking. Slow, gradual increase in distance will make all the difference in continuing and enjoying this new movement. You really are brave! I walk 45 min and I get this pressure point in my right foot that makes my toes go numb and I know I have to quit. My ankles are weak and my arches suffer if I do too much. I'm very heavy so I can't move terribly fast. But I'm getting better and stronger and these problems are decreasing the more often I walk or do activities. You are going to notice a BIG change after a few walks. And you will feel awesome for what you've done. Ignore the teasing. I think it probably comes from someone who doesn't have the courage to do it themselves? Fear drives people. Fear drives your bravery! I can't wait to hear how great you feel and offer you a virtual hug of cheer!!

[A_Lurker]

@_Lilac_ - good decision.  Although I do think it is an option for some, I've never considered it for myself.  I know some that have done the surgery and the original weight loss is impressive.  They have a lot of struggles after that initial weight loss, and I still don't think there's enough long term data to make a truly informed decision.  I firmly believe I can do this on my own, and from the short time I've known you here, I believe you can as well.

[khreed]

@Bobbinyc Wow! What a comprehensive summary of all we are trying to do. You are amazing.

[hannahbebrave]

@Bobbinyc I have so many doubts on my own.  You once said you had written too much and people said not at all.  I just want to tell you I find your posts so wise and kind.  You get this way of looking at things.  I really smiled a whole lot when you said in one sentence that you want to look good in jeans, not get cancer, and out live your ex.  You crack me up.  I can tell you like everyone here a whole lot and that you take good care of people in your life cause you do that here too.  I get the feeling that you appreciate people just for who they are, flaws and all.  I really was bowled over by what you said at the end "I never told a boss or a family member I was caring for 'I don't feel like it".  You are so right.  We give and give to others without thinking about ourselves.  And who would tell a boss that and still keep their job?  Then we tell ourselves I don't feel like it when it comes to eating better or exercising.  

I am going to try to treat myself as well as I have treated relatives I took care of.  I was never too tired or didn't feel like it.  So I'm doing the same as you - I'm going to be my own best caregiver. And I'll be my own boss too.  Thanks for all you give here.

And I sure do hope you outlive your ex.  Boy that did come just when I needed a good laugh.

[_Lilac_]

What a great day!! My niece has been sent home THREE times from the hospital because it isn't 'time' for the baby to come, so her mom (my sister) was feeling tired and stressed. I took her out for breakfast/brunch and then to the large ladies clothing store, where I bought her a pair of pants and earings. She needs to be pampered too. She is going to be a grandmother for the first time. We got caught in the rain but walked about 2500 steps over to Walmart and ooh'd and ahh'd at baby stuff. When we got off the bus at her place, I met up with a 'Walk a mile in her shoes' event going on. A whole BUNCH of men were walking down Main St. in high heels, hobbling and needing help by holding onto women's arms, just to keep upright. One of the people in safety vests who was helping keep order, was carrying a first aid kit. I laughed about that. Drivers were honking and the men were cheering. I heard one guy say, "I don't know how you do this. I'm sweating! It's a real workout. Oh no, a hill." (It was a downward slope) The proceeds from their participation go toward ending gender based violence. They were treated to foot massages and food at the completion of the walk. 

I've got 7k steps today so far and it's not yet 2pm. The dogs still need to go out for their trek. I have housework to do too. I feel happy and energized. The rain is gonna hit really hard and continue into tomorrow. I might have to do a lot of Leslie Sansone videos! 

Happy Friday, all. We are almost into the weekend. Get your heart revving!

[HeartBiller]

@khreed Do you mind if I ask what state you live in? It may help when I talkt o the rep. I figure I will see him next week sometime. I want to see what programs are available where you are. I am in Kentucky. I do not know if they very from state to state but will ask.

[HeartBiller]

Well I sure wish I could say I was doing better, but I did see the scale move downward a tad so that is a plus for me. I honestly do not think I will hit my goal by Halloween, but will continue on. My halloween goal was 174, and this morning I was 178.6, so not sure I can manage in a week and 3 days. BUT hey I have what I consider an important anniversary coming up in a couple weeks, maybe I can hit it by then. (One can Pray).

I do love reading all the encouraging words on this site. There are some really good people whom appear to have alot of wisdom and compassion on this site. Thats so awesome.

[khreed]

@HeartBiller I live in Cincinnati, Ohio. What part of Kentucky do you live in?

[mommo77]

USW: 212

SW:  166

CW:  158.2

GW: 150

UGW:  150

Thanks, Lilac, for the encouraging words.  I guess strong feelings of guilt are also mixed in with memories of my mom.  It does hurt to feel so down at time when I know she would feel happy.  While the sunset time of day is still hard, I absolutely love the morning sunrise.  I try to walk every morning and catch the sunrise and they are spectacular right now.  I think of all the years I slept through them and am so thankful that this year I'm ready to appreciate them.  It really energizes my day to walk early and makes me appreciate the season more than I have in a long time.  I did plant a bulb, in honor of momma, thanks for the suggestion.  We don't have alot of pretty seasonal colors here in south Texas, just lots of pine needles and cones dropping, lol. We've got a 'cold front' this weekend (it's 50 this morning, so brrr!) so we may see a few autumn colors soon. 

I definitely won't make my Halloween goal, but that's okay.   The weight loss has slowed dramatically but that's okay, too.  As long as it's coming off, even in bits and taking longer, I'm good.  And it gives me hope that maybe I can keep it off this time around, and not rebound like so many times before.  Enjoy your weekend everyone!

mommo

[_Lilac_]

Well, we have a huge rainfall warning/flood warning today. Besides the amount of rain we are getting, we have a lot of leaves filling up the drains. They did a good street sweeping but there are SO MANY leaves that it doesn't help much. How am I going to get in my walking?? I was thinking I could get the bus over to the mall and walk around there for an hour. The floors are so hard and flat that it is painful. There is only so much pacing I can do in my house! It's a small house! I usually don't mind walking in rain but this is downpours! 

Yesterday, I was out with my sister and we were going from a store to the mall (about 2000 steps worth) and she asked if I wanted to take a bus over. I said, "NOoo! I need to get in my steps!" and she said, "Oh, I thought you wouldn't want to walk there." That is how I used to be. I couldn't walk anywhere. I physically couldn't do it. Now, I'm just go go go. If I have to travel far, I figure out what the best mix of bus and walking I can do to assure my # of steps. Bus to that point, walk to there, bus to there, walk to home, etc. Yes, it's kinda regimental, but it's exhilerating. I think my family has noticed a huge difference. I know my daughter has because I drag her along with me. Hahaha.

It's 8:40am. It's as dark as pre-sunrise because of the rain clouds. It's quiet, the dogs are snoozing, great time to plan my day. Have an awesome one, all. Eat well, eat enough, high step it. Burn those calories and be happy!!

[dancefoxtrot]

Hi @Bobbinyc and all the challengers,

Thanks so much for your inspiring letter. You nailed it completely when you said doing what you feel like led to the weight gain. Exactly what happens to me when I indulge in sitting at the computer and watching the TV, mostly news.  Sitting makes me tired and lazy which is ironic since resting you'd think would give you energy. Today I did chores like cleaned some gutters and scrubbing down a closet and washing windows. It is dark outside and yet my fitbit says only 4137 steps so I need to get up and move some more. 

Let's recommit for our last 9 days. 

Off to get the laundry from the dryer. Yes a good reason to move again. 

Best,

Barbara G

[dancefoxtrot]

@hannahbebrave

I laughed at Bobbi's reason to outlive her ex. Yes indeed I bet she will. Okay I'm going to dance to the music on Austin City Limits now since I'm under 5K steps and it is 8 pm. I agree that Bobbi is both wise and kind and we are lucky to have her and each other. 

Best to you and all,

Take good care of you,

Barb G

[almost_where]

Labor Day - 290

Week 1 - 290

Week 2 - 287

Week 3 - 286

Week 4 - 284

Week 5 - 284

Week 6 - 280

Week 7 - 279 CW

Halloween Goal -Original 275  Revised- 277

-1 lb

[A_Lurker]

---

@A_Lurker wrote:

USW: 407.0
CSW: 288.6 (Labour Day)
PW: 278.2 (10/9/16)
CW: 276.2 (-2.0)
GW: 275.8 (Halloween)
LT: 2.26 lbs/week for 37 weeks

---

OMG - I hate to admit that the week got worse from how I was last Sunday.  The only positive that came out of it was that we've finally agreed that my mother will go into a retirement home.  Originally I was looking at long term care (more of a nursing home) but I've found somewhere reasonably close that does both.  They think they can deal with her on the retirement side, but it's good as they will be able to give me more input on the long term care (ie. when she's ready).  I hope she can spend a good amount of time on the retirement side as frankly, the long term care places I looked at last week were depressing.  We're going back on Tuesday for her to pick a room (there are two available) and take measurements so we can decide what's going with her.  She could go as early as Nov 1st, but it will the weekend of the 12th so I can help her go through her stuff (ie. what to take), get her a chest x-ray (public health requirement) and take her to her next doctor's appointment (Nov 9th).  The feelings of guilt are still there, but not as bad as they were.  I'm honestly, looking forward to it.

USW: 407.0
CSW: 288.6 (Labour Day)
PW: 276.2 (10/16/16)
CW: 274.4 (-1.8)
GW: 275.8 (Halloween) <--- MET IT!
LT: 2.25 lbs/week for 38 weeks

I'm not surprised that I met my goal as I set it to an average of 1.6 pounds a month.  That was based on a 1000 calorie deficit, and the tracker being slightly off.  I was assuming if I did -1000 every day that this would translate into 1.6 pounds a week.  However, I redid the numbers at the end of September and as I collect more data the numbers are (for me) getting closer to needing 3500 calories to lose a pound.  I'm going to redo them at the end of October and then probably adjust my goal for the next challenge.

[dancefoxtrot]

Good morning all,

Somehow I'm back down to 146.4 lbs so at least I'm going down all be it slowly. If I don't make my goal this time I'll keep on working toward it.  Burn more by moving more and smaller portions of food. Less late night eating will do the trick.  Today I'm going to be careful with food again as I was yesterday. 

Best to all,

Barb G