Good Morning (almost afternoon)
I have not posted in a few days. It has been hard to find time lately. things are going well here. I have been sticking to the program. I have been keeping in touch on a regular basis with my AP. Tomorrow is 6 weeks that I started and I am looking forward to the 7th. I finished step 6 and I am planning on taking my 6th week photos this week sometime. People have said they see an imrovement. It is hard to see without taking the pics.
I hope everyone has a great day.
All my best,
Elliot

Hi all -

I have a question for you. Can I rearrange the steps/week I am on? This is week 3 and I am suppose to be focusing on nutrition but that is not gonna happen. So I was thinking of skipping ahead to week 6 - healthy spaces makeover. Having clean spaces makes me want to do more, eat better, feel better. So I was thinking it would be a good place to land. Then I can do 3 next week, then 4, then 5, then 7..

Also - spouse challenge was awesome! Will tell you more about it later.

HUGS!!
McKenna

Hi guys & gals. Sorry for you that are enduring snow while it is 80 here in Texas with all the spring green in the grass & trees and the bluebonnets bursting out. Sounds like I'm gloating doesn't it. Maybe just a little, but you have a chance to get back at me in August when it hasn't rained in 8 weeks, everything is brown and it is 105 every day and 95 at night.

Welcome Sharilyn! Every time I feel like not running, I think about the person who can't and I am instantly grateful for the freedom to run. Treadmills are so boring to me, my iPod is my only savior if I have to do that. I much prefer to run outdoors where I can see different scenery every step, get fresh air, experience the weather, see the sun rise or set, and hear the birds sing. When I was in track in high school, I hated to run when it was specified how far and how fast, but on my own, I love it and hope you do soon as well.

Carin, you are so darn honest, you set the bar high for the rest of us. It does make my goals seem more attainable when I see that even a champion shares the same struggles as I do from time to time. Now I just need to deal with them as squarely as you do. Thanks for the inspiration!

Clarke, I am so happy to hear that your weekend went well. I was thinking of you often because I know how powerful it can be to repair relationships. I really admire that you chose to be fearless and not continue to stay away.

Nea, nice to hear from you. I miss your beautiful sharing. There is no need to go back for a do over. I'm glad you recognize the progress you have made, and the only thing we can actually change is today. I get anxious too, but then I remember that I am transforming for the rest of my life.

Here is my plan for today already in progress.

Paul

Hello all you wonderful Transformers! Having a good day inspite of the high winds. Hope to get a lot done today. Late posting, but needed to get it done. Wishing you all a blessed day!
My Plan for Today!

Clarke- so happy about your successful trip to Kansas.

Carin- Thank you for sharing your ups and downs. We miss you when you not posting also. You make a difference in here each day.

Sharilyn- Glad to see you posting and getting involved! Awsome that your husband has some involvement. I pray for my wife do get on board soon. (Don't blow away today!)

Paul- Your heart felt words to all are so what make me know I have the best AP in T.com

Don

Hi all;
Been at training all day-so just wanted to stop in & review everyone's posts and post my plan for the day. Sorry I don't have a lot of time today-I will try to check in later tonight. Kathy
http://www.transformation.com/ksukus...2-Day-3/137823

Here's todays plan!! Will be back later!!

(Drove to the Dr in a flippin' blizzard today!! What a rude joke!)

http://www.transformation.com/milezn...arch-22/137860

Find joy in a small thing, today! Give joy in huge doses!!

Lisa

FYI - I failed the Couples Challenge this weekend. Sometimes easier to give advice, than to take it. BUT, I DID embrace it yesterday and did two things for Al that I never do. When he came home, I told him I had done something for him but didn't tell him what. He took some guesses and I told him he'd discover it at some point. And he did late in the evening and it was fun when he did! It was absolutely NO BIG DEAL, but he responded like it was a very big deal. Obviously it's been a long time since I did something for him. We've been fighting cats and dogs, so it was the first night in a couple weeks that we went to sleep cuddled instead of hugging our respective edge of the bed. lol

Spring sprang and left again here in Wisconsin!! ARGH! I got out quickly this morning for a 3.25 mile walk before the storm hit! BONUS! Now off to do my UBWO!!

Paul, not gloating at all. Just do me a favor and go indulge in that sunshine with a heart full of gratitude that you GET TO!! :-) By the way, in my earlier post, I stated that last week I didn't do so good nutritionally and I told all that was wrong with the week, but I failed to celebrate that the week as a whole was BETTER than the previous week, which means there was PROGRESS, which makes the week a WIN! Next goal is to make this week an even BIGGER WIN! *winks* Thank you for valuing me. I value you too!!

Awwwwe, Don! Thank you my friend! Feels nice to be missed. May have to skip a day more often. JUST KIDDING! No way - I gain too much by reading all of you and truth be told, I did stop in and read on Sunday!! Just did not post. Was not a very calm, cohesive environment in our home this weekend and I admit to my spirit being damp. No excuse not to post, in fact, even more reason that I should have! Lesson Learned!

YAY!!!! Jody's got it down now!

McKenna! WOW girl!! You take an idea and run with it!! I just came from your blog and am in awe of how you have expanded the couple challenge from last weekend!! LOVE IT! Your post moved me to tears and ensured that I will be calling my daughter tonight!! Also, so curious how it went with your Mr over the weekend.

hi all- i think i'm finally getting a clue as to how to be an active member of this group, lol.

i usually do my workouts first thing in the mornings, but today i decided to go grocery shopping and do a little meal prep before going to workout. i love to exercise, don't like to do all of the food stuff, but i realize i have to be prepared or it's too easy for me to eat junk. so, i've got 3 healthy main dishes planned, veggies washed and cut up and into containers, and now going to go to the gym. so far i've had low-fat cottage cheese and peaches.... just had a pro shake with blue berries- off to a good start.

wishing you all a great day!

btw- i'm in kansas, just wondering where clarke was while he was here.

jody

OK, I am just learning my way around this site - I'm sure I'll get better! I have completed Action Steps #1 and #2 and for some reason, I have been selaying step #3. I can feel my resistance to committing to eating properly although I start out every day pretty well: nutrition shake, exercise, M2 is usually a shake or bar, same for M3. Then I go back to old habits. I lost 25# before joining this community and I've gained back a few. That's what I always do - I wonder if I'll ever figure it out.

Today:
M1: protein shake
20 minute dog walk
M2: protein shake (1/3 small banana split between M1 & M2 for palatability)
Exercise: 20 interval training on ellypitcal and 15 minutes resistance & core training (I currently follow Five Factor Fitness).
Extra: 50 cal protein water following exercise

Intention for rest of day:
M3: Greek yogurt with 1/4 cantaloupe
M4: hard-boiled egg on Ezekiel toast spread with avocado (yum!), snap peas
M5: dinner at Mexican restaurant: steak or chicken and salad (no refried beans for sure!)
M6: protein bar

64 oz. water (half done already!)

Thank you to all of you who have encouraged me so far!
Iris

Good Morning Everyone!

TODAY'S FOOD PLAN
Meal1. Whey Protien in SkimMilk
Supp1. 1 Multivitamin,1 Fish oil,1 Flax oil
Meal2. Oatmeal ,Whey Protien in SkimMilk
Meal3. Turkey Sandwich, Cottage Cheese,Decaf Ice Tea
Meal4. Whey Protien in SkimMilk
Meal5. Meatloaf,Salad,Decaf IceTea
Supp2. 1 Multivitamin,1 Fish oil,1 Flax oil
Meal6. Whey Protien in SkimMilk

TODAY'S WORKOUT PLAN
1] 1.5- Hour Cycling Intervals
2] BFL Upper Body/Core

-Stuart

Tuesday Accountability

Sore today after yesterdays workout. It hurts good though - nice to feel I got some muscle. Have just planned my menu for the upcoming week and made a list to go shopping tomorrow.
I will keep on posting here and wishing I could take some more time to participate in your posts. I hope you are still on and doing well.
It is amazing how much awareness I get through this accountability posting. I have started some journaling for other stuff too

My Plan

Breakfast1: Berry & protein shake with coconutmilk & flaxseed
Morning Snack: Pcs dried fruit & handful almonds
Breakfast2: Oatmeal (w. protein powder) apple, green tea, omega-3, vitamin & mineral supplement
Lunch: Coleslaw, potatoes & turkey sausages, coffee, 1pcs (10g) dark chocolate (+80%)
Midday Snack: Pear & 10 almonds
Dinner: Quinoa, blackbeans & veggies
Evening Meal: Mung bean pudding (more beans, less starch than regular), coconut milk, green tea

Exercise: Cardio Workout Class

Sleep: 6,5 hours

Grateful for:
got some extra time to work on my backlog
my reliable car
the energy my workout class generates

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nea Hey -y-all I'm still here, just crazy with school and my thesis. I think about y-all most days, but posting - well - I feel bad that I don't have much to say about the progress of my health and weight loss(made a quick blog today about it). Although I do feel I'm transforming on the inside(being kinder to myself, my home and holding my purpose as an inspiring reminder) I do wish I could go back a few weeks, and work on the outside with effort and commitment I want to put into this - but for now... touching base is what I can do - and it helps. Thanks for not forgetting about me BIG HUGS - Nea

Hey Nea, Do what you have to do and know we are here for you! I almost lost my mind when I had to write my thesis! (-; So dig into it and as they say , Git 'er done! (-;

Keith

Quote:

Originally Posted by ClarkeBuchanan I got back from my trip to Kansas and my weekend with my first Son, his wife and my three Grandchildren late last night. I have not read anything on the thread since late Thursday night. I will have to catch up later as I need to plan my week, my meals, get my workout in and get back to work. I hope to find that you are all well and/or dealing with your adversities head on. I had not seen Larry and his family for 10 years or more and had not been in regular communication either. We had a lot of fun, many laughs and I handled a lot of my steps #11 & 12 (Releasing Concealments and Making it Right). While this work is not complete, it has opened up relationships that have been pretty shut off for a long time. I ate fairly close to plan as I had planned for several free meals. I took along protein bars and shakes and made good choices in restaurants and airports. My water intake has been real good as well. I got up at 4:30 Friday and worked out before driving to Boston, ran on Saturday for my HIIT (I am not a runner) Sunday is my rest day and I did not workout as planned when I got home last night. My flight was delayed because of snow in Boston so I did not get home until 10. I have adjusted my workout schedule and will be working out on Sunday to make up for the skipped day so I will get all of my workouts in this week. I will post my steps 11 & 12 as soon as I get them typed out. Warmly, Clarke

Great news Clarke!!! So glad for you and your family. Transformation one step at a time!! Keith

I'm trying not to obsess over the steps of Transformation, trying to remember this is a process not necessarily a goal. It is helping me to track my eating and exercise program here, particularly to see that even when I feel so full like I have eaten all six meals, I am struggling to make it happen. Here was my food diary yesterday:
M1 1/2 c Kashi with 1/4 c nonfat milk
M2 1 c vegan potato soup, 1 bagel chip
M3 1 oz roasted almonds and 1/2 apple
M4 2 1/2 oz cajun catfish, 3 scallops, mixed veggies, salad
and oops and oops on M5 and M6, but I felt stuffed all day. I think the higher fiber foods fill me to satiety. Also, I have been trying to train my body to listen to my "appetstat" that monitors when I feel hungry or full. It is hard for me to eat when I feel full. And the water during the day fills my stomach. I suspect I am hitting the total food intake mark reasonably well from a calorie standpoint; however, the evening family meal remains the biggie of the day, so I am eating more heavily in the evening. While I know theoretically I should eat like "a king for breakfast, a prince for lunch, and a pauper for dinner", I am trying to balance family mealtime with my own eating plan. My compromise so far has been measured portions and healthier options for everyone. I will keep an eye on this situation and monitor it closely.

I've just learned that our city has opposed the Dept of Transportation's proposed routes for a "corridor" extension, and are lobbying the state agency for the road we live on to become the new 6 lane interstate. It could take our house, and if not, make it worthless. It will definitely take our pasture. There are a dozen economic and environmental reasons why this makes no sense (and I have my own selfish reasons, of course). They did this quietly, the public has just learned of it, with just 2 days left to provide public comment. I've spent the afternoon reading the EIS, studying the alternate routes, and am headed to a public hearing to testify, in about 1/2 hour. Needless to say, I let stress override common sense and ate badly, missed a workout.

I'm going with an open mind and will breathe. Public speaking, not my strong suit, plus I let passion get in the way. I'll suppress my disgust, Transformation has given me many tools to cope with this hiccup.Heck, I may even make the 10 o'clock news!

I'll check in tomorrow....
Lisa

Hi all
feeling much better today got 6 meals in and matched the protein and carbs yeah feels good
M1 oatmeal blueberries walnuts
2lean chicken green peppers
3green beans tuna crackers
4apple tangerine almonds
5chicken slice small celery
6veggie burgars ketchup mustard relish mixed vegetables with salsa
worked out in the am w/ a tape progressing slowly very sore
read the book and from your description I can't wait for the couples step
Nea I am sending warm thoughts and prayers for your work in school My hubby and 2 children are in the thick of it too- hang in there
hey swederciser - I am finding posting to help too
Stuart way to stay committed you inspire me
Hi in Christ 7 welcome
Carin thanks for checking in with me and for your post- I appreciate your honesty and humor- you are such a blessing you have no idea
Hey Paul inTexas would you send some sun to Milwaukee? Its dreary and rainy
I get good ideas and encouragement from everybodies posts. Noreen

Wow - everyone has been SO busy over the past 24 hours - HURRAY group!!! That's fantastic - it's so amazing to check in and see everyone working towards their goals, and most importantly, BEING HONEST - for those of you who have had set-backs and struggles - being honest about it to not only yourself or others is a HUGE STRENGTH!!!! It shows the motivation to make change, and the desire to achieve your goals! I always like to say - it's not how many times we fall, what matters is that we get back up (I know someone else said that, just can't think of who, lol).... so here's to a new day starting!!! Oh, well, it's a new day for me, evening for you - I just woke up from my sleep after my night shift, haha.... feels like morning but it's almost 5 p.m.!

Happy to report that I had an AMAZING upper body workout on my break at 1a.m. - super fun! My arms felt like jelly after - I love it when that happens.
It's strange though - I have amazing workouts, almost always hit a 9 and often a 10 - I certainly feel like I can't do more - and my arms feel like jelly after - but I'm not sore the next day??? Should I be? I'm a little sore - but not really. I do stretch really well after my workouts, so I'm guessing that's why, but worried I should be pushing harder? (this is typical Annalisa - I always think I should be doing more than I am)

I just woke up and had scrambled eggs with spinach, a little feta and shallots (my favorite breakfast), and pineapple.... yummm... time to get to paper writing now -

LISA - Congrats on the amazing BMI result!!! Keep it up, that's fantastic to see a drop like that!

SHARILYN - Welcome to the thread, and to week 1!!!! I'm SO excited for you!!!! You are in the right place - and how great for you to have your hubby on board as well - as for running, I always hated it with a passion when I was growing up, and then in my mid-twenties, doing a BFL challenge, something clicked for me, and I've loved it ever since. I focus on what I love about it - it's challenging during, but if I regulate my breathing it's easier. I find it becomes almost meditative. What I love is that I can walk out my door and do it (love running outside), and I feel as though I've had an amazing workout when I'm done. I haven't been able to run much the past few years (I shattered my hip 3 years ago), and miss it terribly. I'm starting to do it more lately, now that I've started this challenge, and I"m so grateful for the days that I can run without pain.

McKENNA - xo back atcha You are so amazing - thank you so much for the extra support you gave me on Sunday. I needed that. As for eating - isn't it amazing how quickly the foods we once liked become detested food sources? Can you eat some 'healthier' fats - ie. lots of nuts, etc? The healthy eating is around the corner, you will get there....

NEA - good luck with your thesis! I feel for you....

CLARKE - all I can say is WoW!!! What an amazing experience, to re-connect with your son. I'm so happy to hear that it went well - I'm sure that was a highlight of your journey!

JODY - you're doing great with participation!!! I'm pretty new to this too, but it doesn't take long to get a feel for everyone - what they're up to with their journey, how they're doing on their progress. It's amazing how much you start to look forward to what everyone is up to - even though we've never met in person, so many people on here are now a regular part of my day. LOVE THAT!!!

CARIN - happy to have you back today!!! I was wondering what happened to you yesterday lol - and I agree with what others have set - your honesty is such an inspiration!!!!! LOVE that you're so transparent with where you're at - you are an incredible example to us all!!!!

Have an amazing eve everyone!!!!
~ Annalisa

Hi all, Just wanted to go over my menu for the day and see if Im doing this right.

m1 Myoplex MR shake, coffee with splenda and FF whitener
m2chiken breast , 1whole wheat tortilla, lettuce and tsp. salsa
m3 Myoplex MR bar
m5 Whey protein shake and 1 small banana
m6 3/4 cup whole wheat penne, homemade tomato sauced carrots peppers, celery, canned crushes tomatoes(no salt) tomato paste and 3 small turkey meatballs. (4 gm fat per 3)

Just wanted to know how this day sounds or is it too much.trying to follow Bills BFL program. My husband had for M3 tuna sanwich on whole wheat bread and M4 homermade soup.
Any ifo would be appreciated. i see alot of folks are taking supplements and my husband said we should get some fish oil. any other helpful hints would be great.

Thanks
Linda
Have a great Hump Day

o.k. - in regards to my earlier post. I would now like to clarify - it's 3 hours later and I can FEEL IT IN MY CHEST - owww.... hahahaha - I think I just might be sore tomorrow.

LINDA - your meal plan looks great to me - other than you've only listed 5 not 6 - I know a lot of people on here eat 5 a day though, I personally like 6 because I"m hungry!!! hahaha - About once a week I like to add up the calories in one of my average days to make sure that I'm on track (as per guidelines on p.59 in Transformation). As for supplements, I think everyone will be different here - I personally just take a total vitamin, vitamin D, and omega 3-6-9. I'm sure you'll find the right combo for you... listen to your body It will never steer you wrong!

Marty & Carin – Thank you for sharing with us the fact that even champions have their weaknesses! Sharing this shows us it really is not about perfection but progress. You both are amazing leaders. Thank you somehow just doesn’t seem like enough to express my gratitude.
Elliot – I am wishing you lots of positive energy this week. You have had an amazing journey so far – keep up the great work!
Paul – LOL! Arizona has great weather atm as well! Just wish I could get out in it more!
Lisa & Carin – Glad you made it to the doctor! Soon you will both be up and running.
Roses – Thanks for sharing this quote: "a king for breakfast, a prince for lunch, and a pauper for dinner" – I have not heard it before. It makes a lot of sense and will help my family out a lot. The kids love the medieval ages!
Clarke – Welcome home! I am so glad that you and your family are healing together.
Lisa – How did the hearing go?
Carin – The spouse challenge doesn’t have to quit just because the weekend is over. Keep trying to squeeze in some extras for your guy – it will be worth it!!
Stuart – thanks for staying strong and for all your support!
Annalisa – I am always so proud of what you accomplish! Can’t wait to hit those 9s and 10s with you! Food wise… I cheated today! I couldn’t help it. The fruit in the fridge was calling my name. It begged to be eaten! And yes… I am paying for it. I have not hurt this much in awhile!




THE SPOUSE CHALLENGE: Using my hubby’s love language as a guide, I tried to come up with some ideas on what I could do this weekend to make him feel more loved. I have decided to try and do something at least a few times a week. Either a text message that says I love you or do something special just for him. I thought all weekend long and couldn’t come up with anything plus he was home so kind of hard to surprise him. So I planned to do something on Monday.


After much thought, I decided the best thing to do would be to tackle our bedroom. This is the most neglected room in the house. I designed it to have the feel of a luxury hotel suite. An escape for the two of us to relax but it has been a catch all zone. Piles of clean laundry, dirty laundry, and mail. No clue when the sheets were lasted washed – the bed is never made as I am usually in it. A coat of dust an inch thick everywhere. Dishes on tables…. Something fuzzy on the floor. Since I am still not the well me yet something that would have taken me an hour tops took me six hours to complete. But I did it. I cleaned the entire room (not the bathroom though) and put away the laundry. It was perfect when he got home. He was shocked. He was afraid to go to bed last night as he didn’t want to mess it up so when he was in the shower I did it. That made him kinda sad so I fixed it when we woke up this morning and remade the bed. He asked if he could touch the white comforter – I told him not to get too carried away! ß That is an inside joke. I purchased a decorative cover and he is not allowed to sleep with it as it is silk. So he always laughs at me and playfully complains that we own a $200 blanket that he can use.



Later that night, I was using my iphone, dropped it on the tile floor, and shattered it. With all the stress lately, it would have caused an argument. Instead, he hugged me and said “that is one way to get an iphone4.”



Blog about love language & link to self-assessment: http://www.transformation.com/McKenna2/blog/Book-Reviews/The-Five-Love-Languages/137516
Blog about Spouse Challenge: http://www.transformation.com/McKenna2/blog/Additional-Challenges/The-Spouse-Challenge/137519


I had so much fun with the Spouse Challenge and re-connecting with my husband that I decided to do a children challenge this week. Here is the first of three: http://www.transformation.com/McKenna2/blog/Additional-Challenges/The-Children-Challenge/137777