Creating my own little "MayFit Challenge" here. By the end of May, I want to have at least half of this goal accomplished, if not more.

Day 1: Exercised for an hour. For food: Coffee for breakfast (I know this is my weak point), soup, apple and peanut butter for lunch. Need to build in a snack. Then sauteed chicken and salad with lemon dressing in a low-carb, high-fiber wrap for dinner. 8 oz of juice and yogurt with Cheerios ped in for snack after the gym.  And here's my biggest leap of the day: SIXTY-FOUR OUNCES of water.

Good start.

 Good for you!

Greek yogurt makes an excellent snack... Way more filling than regular yogurt. And it has tons of protein...

Welcome to the club Shelagh!  So happy you've joined us.  There are so many of us on here working on fitness goals.  Congratulations on making such an important decision about your health and what an awesome great start you've made already. SIXTY FOUR OUNCES of water?  Incredible!!  Your eyeballs must be swimming!  You already know all of this, but consistency is key for sustainable weight loss. Doing what you love will help too.  Length of time per workout can make a big difference - at the forty minute mark, more of your energy is coming from stored fat as opposed to calories from food you've recently ingested so aiming for an hour each visit to the gym will help too.  For me, keeping a food journal is a huge tool and absolutely makes the difference with my own weekly progress - writing it down keeps the whole 'wiser food choices' at the forefront of my mind with each decision.  Just reducing the take-out is HUGE - no telling what unhealthy fats and additives are in all that stuff. Those 15 lbs are history though.  They have met their match!  I'm so excited to read about your progress and hope you'll post your activity and successes on Balance Your Life too.  Oh,  a great place to track activity can be found here:

http://www.mapmyfitness.com/my_home/

Wow, thank you, guys, for the support! This is already so different, I'm aware of this goal and wanting to make it happen in a short time. I started last Tuesday and decided I would only weigh in once a week. Wednesday mornings are the moment ... the moment I am now dreading. Haha. I appreciate the backup and tips very much. Keep 'em coming.

Whew. Weekends are brutal. And for the first time, I think I realize how challenging it is to stay aware of what I eat. Who knew I made so many terrible choices? But for me, having never "dieted," feeling deprived is not productive. I still ate a fistful of Doritos and a blue cheese burger (yum, bad timing to christen the grill), but I have also stocked the cabinets with almonds and walnuts, yogurt and fruit. I have done well along those lines, even opting for cheeseless pizza (which thrilled my dairy-allergic daughter, that we would eat pizza "her way"). Despite my full-on pizza addiction, it was surprisingly good. So food choices that I would normally turn my nose up on, I am opening my mind to. I have to break this carb cycle, I know that has to be a priority.

I worked out three times last week, which I really want to ramp up now that it's fully MayFit in my head and on the calendar. And if you count roller skating while holding up an 8-year-old as exercise (and believe me, I do) , then I actually got in four. I want to hit the 5 workout mark. We also walked a few miles three or four times in the morning last week but I don't know if that is really enough exercise to matter.

My water intake is important, both for this goal and to stay healthy in general. In fact, gotta go fill up my bottle right this minute and get glugging. Do you guys count calories or points or what? 

Hello Shea, looking forward to your updates.  Yeah, weekends are a challenge for me too.  Looks like you're well on your way though - awareness is so key.  I believe tomorrow is your weigh in, so I just wanted to say 'best of luck' with that and I'm sure the needle is going to tip in the right direction for you!  Congratulations on the progress you've made so far can't wait to hear how it goes.

Weigh-in Day: I woke up anxious, how strange this is! But I was in for a pleasant surprise, down 4 pounds in my first week. Exercised every day so far, and Andrea, I'm working up to that full hour. I've been so aware of what I'm eating and feeling so motivated. Off to a good start!

THAT is a phenomenal start!  You're almost a third of the way to your goal in the very first week.  Incredible.  Can't wait to read more.  Keep this up and you'll hit that goal before the month's out!  So exciting.

I don't know how much is water weight and how sustainable a four-pound week is, Andrea, but I LOVE your attitude! I will pace myself and be consistent. Going out to dinner tonight so wish me luck. I drank my water and ate well today so hopefull it won't matter much.

1-2 lbs per week after your initial 'starting' loss would be considered 'sustainable' reasonable progression.  Anything more than that and you're on the bonus plan baby!! You can certainly expect a little fluctuation as the weeks go on as in, 4 down, 2 down, .5 up, 1.5 down, 2 down, 1.5 up, 2 down....  with so little to lose though (lucky you), you'll have this thing done in a heartbeat and just in time for summertime bathingsuit weather and hopping on that sailboat.  With people like me who are facing mountains with trecherous passage, it's helpful to map it out over three months to see the progressive (agonizingly, painfully slow) decline.  I saw your FB scurry to set up your plans for this evening.  Hilarious.  Sounds like a blast though - I take it you like karioke?  These tips help me a tonne when I'm eating out or at a party (kind of both for you this evening, I believe):  salad instead of fries, put the fork down between bites and enjoy the coversation or revelry (as in - eat slower - nobody notices when everyone's snacking anyway - they're just happy you're eating with them too), split the appetizer choice or a couple of different appetizers with a bunch of people and then once again - mindful tasting, and between each beer or cocktail, have a diet soda with a lemon (looks just like a cocktail) or even better - a water with a lemon, and this'll reduce the alcohol calories and not derail your awesome efforts so far.  Oh yeah... dessert.  Split that too if possible, but don't deprive!  Enjoy!! Wishing you a tonne of fun tonight.   

Weekend is going better than last one, thanks to your advice, Andrea! Thank you for the ideas. I went with salad with grilled chicken instead of my usual clam chowder and homemade chips. At lunch, where I'd usually get a fried chicken sandwich, I went for grilled chicken and a side salad, with a few sweet potato fries, which were delish. I'm getting better at seeing the options, instead of just sticking with the same horrible things I always order. LOL.

The major difference I'm noticing is less of a craving for carbs. I think I've broken my latest cycle, finally. I've been carb loading all winter, so it feels good to remember I like fresh fruit and other healthy choices so much. Been so long, I'd forgotten!

Earvin, I LOVE the greek yogurt, what a great suggestion. I'd never had it before and I can't believe how high in protein it is. The one I chose has 14 grams. Awesome.

Exercise had been going great, a workout every day, whether a long walk or a Pilates class or biking at the gym. Yesterday I did nothing but work (big project, loving it, so I get a little obsessed), so I didn't move much, but today took a big long walk through my hometown, even got caught in the rain which was fun. Incorporating activity into my daily life doesn't seem so difficult now that the weather is moderately better. So I'm looking toward this Wednesday with less trepidation.

We'll see how it goes!

 Awesome!  Keep up the fantastic work.  Can't wait to read your update on Wednesday.

Monday, Monday: Did well food-wise, oatmeal and greek yogurt for breakfast, soup for lunch, chicken breast and a veggie medley of zucchini, asparagus and yellow pepper in a bit of olive oil, with sea salt, fresh ground pepper, fresh nutmeg, garlic and wilted basil on the grill. It was beautiful! 

Surprisingly it's getting easier to steer clear of my previous choices of Doritos and pizza. I thought I'd be driving myself crazy with craving, but nope. I did pop a dark chocolate square in my mouth after dinner, but I refuse to feel bad about that. Maintaining the right attitude about long-term change is as important as my weekly weigh-in, right? LOL

I drank my water dutifully and took a walk after dinner. My sugar-free mango slurpee hit the spot. Oh, that one bite of my daughter's Suzy-Q didn't even count ...

Yum Yum and more yum.  That chicken breast with the medley of all those amazing veggies sounds delish!!  I want some too.  No need to feel bad about that dark chocolate square either...  there are healthful benefits to that little piece of heaven and the right attitude will make all the difference.  So happy to read about your success with getting those cravings in check and staying hydrated and active.  You are doing fantastic.  I have no idea what a Suzy-Q is, lol.  

How was your weigh-in Shelagh?  I was thinking about you this morning.  Hope it went well.  Mine is tomorrow.  Wish me luck.  

SUPER PSYCHED. I really thought I'd mailed it in a bit this week, didn't hit my activity goal because I had so much work. I ped two more pounds, which shocked me. I am going to attribute that to the lack of pizza in my life. But good to know that I don't have to kill myself to stay consistent in my weight loss.

Good luck, Andrea! I'm sure you're getting there, too! Do tell.

You rock Shea!  Congrats and that puts you more than a third of the way there in just two weeks.  Fantastic.  I've actually injured my foot again so I'm really frustrated.  Will let you know tomorrow how my date with the scale goes.  Thanks for thinking of me too.

Hi Andrea! Thanks for that. Made it through three days in Montreal and only ate two poutines ... LOL. I'm OK with that. I will work harder at the gym this week and hopefully it will turn out even. I have to set my mind to long-term progress and make allowances for amazing food in Canada that I will only get once in a while. Otherwise I will get frustrated and lose focus altogether.

So, as I type I'm in St. Johnsbury, VT at a beautiful place where we stopped for the night on the drive home. And I was thinking about your sore foot and how it interrupts your fitness goals. What about trying a different kind of exercise while you recover and I mean really recover, as in give it time to totally heal. I know you're more of a cardio, run for your life girl, but I have had tremendous success with pilates and most of what you do happens while laying on a yoga mat. It sculpts and lengthens all of your muscles and you see a real difference in your shape. It also makes sense to change up your workout as you progress so you are hitting all the different muscle groups in addition to your treadmill work (once your foot HEALS). I got a great DVD and we do it all the time, mixing it up with bike work and weight training. I also love pilates because it's peaceful without making me feel bad that I don't have the inner peace required to enjoy yoga. LOL. I will send you the link to what I have when I get home and look at it.

In the meantime, hope you're feeling a bit better. We're going to find a solution and get you on track! 

Hey Shea!  I'm so happy to read you've finally had some authentic Quebec poutine. Sinful delectible stuff.  Right up there with cheesecake and kettle cooked chips.  And you kept it only to two!  Fantastic.  You're doing such a great job staying on track.

I'm finally making it back to the laptop after a crazy five days (yes, that was FIVE whole days) with the in-laws visiting.  Whew.  They are very Italian (straight from Calabria) and as my middle child had his First Communion yesterday, it's been all about family, food and trying to keep the place tidy, preparations for overnight hosting and event planning (something I know you understand well) and outdoor gardening (not my favourite).  At one point there were twenty five people in my kitchen.  OMG!!  Very loud bunch too.  Advil gelcaps have been my close friend over the past few days with the headache from the volume of our guests and the foot pain (really slowed me down). Anyway, all of that put me WAY off track with the food thing (can Frank's mom cook), the workout schedule and the kids' schedule has suffered as well.  Very cranky 6 year old in Church yesterday.  His continual declarations of being STARVING undoubtedly had those seated closeby thinking I hadn't fed my kid in days menwhile, he'd already had a breakfast of waffles and a snack of fruit just before.  Can't please eveyone all the time, I guess.  To answer your question though, yes, I can swim and biking seems to not aggravate it as much as jogging, so tonight - that's the plan as I've got a tonne of catching up to do and the house is almost back in order.  Yoga and pilates sound fantastic and I totally understand all the benefits.  Which DVD do you use?  Yes yes, please send the link.  Maybe I should take your advice and try something new.  Bellydancing is fun too and utilizes all those core muscles you're strengthening with your pilates. 

Vermont is awesome.  One of my favourite states for it's breathtaking beauty and crisp clean air (from what I remember).  I've only been to so few states though. Unfortunately, I haven't had a chance to explore much in each one either.  There's just never enough time.  Look forward to your updates and can't wait to hear your Wednesday morning update for sure.

I have a LOT of work to do today. Pilates. Water. Sensible food choices. Pack for New York. Pick up Maura at school. Take her for her fitness test at the gym. Dinner with the whole family. Andrea, your life sounds so much like mine... Hard to stay on track.

I am dreading tomorrow again, because I packed a pair of jeans with me for Canada that so should have fit me but didn't. I just keep going. I will get there by June! How did your biking go last night? I usually do as close to an hour as I can, though some days I can't squeeze in a whole hour. The pilates DVD we use is by Gaiam, Quick Start Pilates for Weight Loss. It's great. Probably doesn't matter which one you choose but it's an effective addition to any workout. I see huge results when I add it in.

WooHoo.  I'm back at it too - 20km ride yesterday and 15 already today.  I've got to hussle though - the month is ticking away.  Thanks for the info on the Pilates and the DVD.  Will try and get my hands on that.  I really like your suggestion to change things up a bit and give my foot a chance to recover better.  I'm going to stay off Eli (my standing Elliptical) and stick to the riding one.  That'll help and still let me hit my distance goals.  

My gosh, your schedule sounds like a whirlwind too - way worse than mine with all the travelling.  You will certainly hit your goal by June.  Are we aiming for the beginning, middle or end of June, btw?  Congrats on all your progress so far!  Keep it up - you're an inspiration for all of us.

"All of us," haha, you're nice. You're the only one following me! So thank goodness for your support, the accountability is really big on this one. Wish I could get some more feedback. But that's OK, I'm just going along. Hmm, when in June should I expect to hit my goal? Given the fact that I probably derailed to the point of starting over this weekend (tomorrow's weigh-in will tell quite a tale), I'm going to say the end of June. I want this to be sustainable so I'm not going overboard. It has to be something I still want to do in July and beyond! That's the attitude, right? 

Curious why you base your fitness goal on distance? Do you have body measurements or anything like that going? I just read an article on how important it is to recognize the change in your shape that takes place as you increase your fitness. Muscle creation and activity will change your body before it really changes the number on the scale, so it makes sense. I'm thinking of measuring hips and waist so maybe I'm not so number-focused all the time. What do you think? I just don't know how healthy it is for my psyche as I fluctuate through this process, and as someone who is tactically aware of performance (by that I mean type A all the way), I don't want to be derailed by feelings of potential failure. This has to be long term.

 Ha!  You never know who's reading but not actually following!  You never know who'll show up either and read the whole story.  No way are you so derailed to be back at point zero.  Besides, you've learned some new positive habits and are making more informed choices, and are much more in tune with your body these days, so even if the scale says that you're back at point zero (which I highly doubt), it's absolutely not the case.  Perfect attidude and realistic goal too.  Love it.  

I base my fitness goal on distance because I know that I'll lose weight when I utilize two vital keys - the first is wiser food choices the second is cardio activity.  Yes, the hydration, attitude and vitamins make a difference, and accountability plays a huge factor too.  Ultimately though, if I'm not putting my time in at the gym, I won't see results.  Before I had kids, I was a part-time aerobics instructor so my body really relies on that cardio burn.  It kickstarts the metabolism - especially if I get to the the gym in the morning.  By setting an aggressive activity goal each month, I'm forced to get my butt in that gym or hit that pavement outside every second day or so.  It keeps me on track. If I do a good workout in a day, I've found I'm more likely to make better food choices too so I don't mess up my efforts in the gym. I did take body measurements at the beginning and whenever I hit a discouraging plateau, I check. I've lost 17.5 inces overall so far, so that's good news.  (Chest, waist, hips, upper arms, thighs and calf measurements). Absolutely makes sense.  

I can appreciate how it's especially challenging for highly driven individuals who tend to be results oriented.  Leading a healthier life is such an ongoing process, it's important to recognize other changes too - craving water more, craving sugar and carbs less, improved attitude, higher engergy levels, better mobility and endurance, better confidence overall, better quality of sleep, better enjoyment of all facets of life, improved relationships... So many things are related to the choice to become more healthy and fit.  It's definiately a life changing goal overall.  The only thing I can offer that I've found has helped me through this journey so far is that I've really tried hard to fall in love with the actual process of learning to become more in tune with my body, to appreciate the tastes and flavours, to enjoy texture more, to s-l-o-w down and not be in such a hurry to get through the meal because there's a zillion things to do. A lot of it is mental trickery.  It's become imortant to try to avoid those extremes of starving and stuffed too - those are danger zones. You've made serious progress Shea, there's certainly no reason to be feeling possibly derailed.  Focus on all those little successes that you've achieved so far and plan for a reward that will motivate you.  I think your weigh in is tomorrow morning.  At last count, I think you were down 6.  Do you have a reward set up for your half way point?  (Besides fitting into those jeans).  It absolutely must be a bit of an indulgence, but nothing to break the bank.  It can't be food related and it has to be something that will induce the pride you'll feel for your achievement.  You should have a bigger one lined up for the accomplishment of your overall goal too.  If you look on the pic you used for the Community Manager story you did up for me, you'll see my pretty mug.  I have 4 - one for every 10lbs lost so far.  Every time I enjoy my coffee, I'm reminded of my achievement(s) and successes.  It is just another way of tricking my mind to stay present and on track.  So tell me... what are yours?    

I don't know, that's a really good question. I should think of some kind of reward? That's a great idea. I really need some new clothes but I hate buying now because, well, hopefully I won't be this size! LOL. So I should think of a different prize. I love to cook and could use some new spices. Actually I found a dish pattern I love, since you mention the mug idea. I don't want to break the bank so maybe I start there, too!

I have identified what my tough times are, the issues that are keeping me heavier than I want to be, so that's what I'm taking as my first lesson. I can see where I fall off track very clearly. I make great meals ... as long as I cook at home. Tonight I made steak on the grill, perfect portions, with shocked kale, diced mango and red pepper salad with sunflower seeds sprinkled on, and baked sweet potato fries. It was heavenly. I had a boiled egg, a tiny multigrain roll with honey peanut butter, sliced apple and a few grapes, with an ounce of hard Irish cheddar for breakfast... see what I mean? It's not like I'm reaching for the bag of Oreos or anything.

But weekends are a whole 'nutha story. I try to make good choices (protein and veggies as much as I can) but we eat out often, we are traveling a ton, and I'm a foodie! So I want to order all the good stuff. It's my inspiration to cook. By the time Monday rolls around, I'm already feeling the pressure.

The other thing I need to do is seriously build in more fitness time. I have to ramp up or I'm not going to get there. It isn't even that I don't feel like it, I do! Time is so precious right now. I just can't seem to get everything done. I'm going to get through this week doing all I can, my pilates at home probably. We leave for NYC Thursday morning and we'll be walking all over town. It isn't exactly the way I'd like it, but I have to give myself some credit for that activity. It may or may not balance out all the amazing restaurants I"m anticipating in the city! This is why it's so important to maintain the long-term perspective. I don't have to do this all at once. But I sure would like to be strong and lean again. Brutal to have to work at this! 

Awesome.  Great place to start.  Think of all the reward possibilities too.  As long as it's something that helps motivate, then that's perfect.  

Your food and cooking sounds INCREDIBLE!  Very flavourful and absolutely mouthwatering.  I'm thinking about how the choices in my own fridge just don't cut it here.  Fantastic.

Yeah, weekends can really throw me off course too.  NY sounds exciting.  Looking forward to some new stories posted by you guys.  Don't forget you sensible walking shoes.   Sounds like you've got it all under control and it seems like you know where you need to go with things next.  No surprise here.  Keep up the fantastic work.

Bah. I'm back up 2 pounds, so be it. I knew it was going to be a rough weigh-in but I'm told this is common and normal so I'm trying not to be disappointed. And so it begins again!

Totally normal.  The great news is... you are absolutely NOT back at square one.  Great job.  No need for disappointment... you're still pretty much a third of the way done. Keep in mind that your weekly weigh in is most reflective of last weeks' efforts, so, next week, you'll be back in the black because your'e going to stay on track this week.  How long are you in NY for?

NUTS.

Well, it was bound to happen. All this traveling and pigging out has gotten the best of my progress. Literally haven't lost another pound beyond the first 4. At least I haven't fallen completely back to the beginning, and I know I'm doing the right things. Just going to take some time.

Nantucket for the weekend, then on to JUNE FIT! This will be the portion of the program where I stop eating on the road and actually start exercising more than twice a week again. :) 

At least that's what I'm hoping for. Anyone else out there working on a fitness goal? Get involved! We all need hope and help to reach our goals.

Shea - working on reshaping myself.  Yes, I could stand to lose some weight, but I'd settle for just moving it around.  Trying to focus more on toning than cardio, which has been my focus for quite a while.  Muscle helps burn fat, and all that jazz.  Hoping to come up with solid plan for June myself.

I think, just as important as eating the right stuff, is portion control on what may not be as good for you.  I was never and will probably never be a "dieter".  But, as long as I get a little of what I enjoy, I'm a happy camper, and that's all I want to be!

Shea, you're attitude is fantastic.  Keep the focus and 'June Fit' it is.  Just in time for summer and love that you're doing all the right things and loving the jet-set lifestyle too. 'Resetting' the goal if we've missed it is such an invaluable part of achieving that winning outcome.  Love what Zinful's left for you too.  Whenever I read a comment from someone on my goals, I feel like I'm opening a present at Christmas time.  It's such a nice little gift.

“Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.”  - Confucius

Thank you both! I am in this one for the long haul, I know, and I can also be totally honest that I haven't been as aggressive in reaching this yet. Luckily, I gave myself enough time mentally that I don't feel like a failure at all, just still in process.

Took a decent hourlong power walk today, as it is gorgeous weather for the first time in a million years. Drinking my 64 oz. of water and planning a nice meal on the grill. As Scarlett O'Hara said: Tomorrow is anutha day! :)

Awesome re: the power walk.  I figured you might be feeling a little discouraged when you wrote 'nuts', but of course you're not - I should know you better by now.  Can't imagine where this goal will go if you do get aggressive with it.  64 oz of water!  Amazing. Can't wait to hear what you cooked up on the grill.       

 Hi Shea,

I'm also trying to loose weigth. i hope, i will be able to aceieve my goals and try as honestly as you are trying..!

Orchid and Andrea, thank you! I am trying to focus on the many positive changes I have made in the last four weeks, rather than the pounds I haven't eliminated yet. So far, I've cut out sugar pretty much, even switched to Splenda in my coffee. That's huge for me, because previously I'd think nothing of stuffing down a few peanut butter cups or a fistful of Skittles. I no longer crave candy or sweets, and part of my goal was to break the carb-craving cycle. I definitely have a handle on that now. So THAT'S good. I've added a huge amount of water and have cut down on soda considerably. I am aware of what I'm eating, and making better choices even when I'm on the road, mostly protein and veggies. Trying to steer clear most of the time from foods that will re-trigger the carb loading habits of the past.

It's also time to sail again, so I'm waking up with sore muscles, signs of physicality that I didn't feel over the long winter. Even though I haven't been faithfully going to the gym, I've been doing my pilates and hauling boat gear and using my core to stay balanced while I'm on the boat, so I'm even going to count that as activity.

June Fit is next on my horizon. Eleven pounds may be too much to lose in four weeks but if I ramp up my exercise and stop traveling four days out of every week, I have a decent shot. And if I only lose four more pounds, then July Fit it is! I'm OK with that.

Orchid, thanks so following. Weight loss and fitness are so hard, we have to stick together! What kind of changes have you been making, or thinking about making? Got any tips for me? So glad to find you here!

UUuuggggg... Spenda in the coffee!  I tried that too, and Sweet 'n Low and Sugar Twin.  A few times... just can't get it to do the trick for me.  You are awesome!  Maybe I need to stick it out longer.  How long did it take you to begin to enjoy the Splenda?   And look at all the seriously significant healthful changes you've made too in just a month. Congratulations on all your successes so far.  Way to inspire.

Welcome to the conversation Orchid. Looking forward to your tips too as I'm on the same fitness journey.

Hi Shea,

Just a tip from my own experience, when i do a relaxation exercise such as breathing and yoga, it reduces my craving for sweets and salty food. I always crave those food especially after my work out. It works all the time...and drink lots of fluid...

That's so smart, Rowenaca! I have been trying to bump up my water intake and I've been sporadic at best with it. I will be more aware of it this week and see if I can hit my goal for 64 ounces a day.

It's Wednesday, so here it is: Neutral weight loss this week.That's how I'm going to put the positive spin on it, haha. I did not slide any farther back, even despite a long weekend on Nantucket. So that's a good thing. Went to the gym yesterday and ROCKED it, half hour of rowing and half hour of heavy biking. I found a whole bunch of new songs on my iPod that I loved working out to, which always helps. Then made turkey burgers with cajun spices and a lovely fresh salad for dinner. I am still on track.

Andrea, the whole Splenda thing was not a huge sacrifice for me, I'm not a sweet craver. I don't love bitter coffee but I love love love coffee so I just need a touch to take the edge off. I'm no hero! haha.But steer me clear of dill pickle chips and doritos.

Going for a long walk now and already poured my first 32 ounce bottle of water for the day and buckling down. It's a mental game for me, I thought as I rowed like I was on the Charles River at Harvard last night. I am going to keep going! Who's with me?  :) 

OMG - that takes me back.  I didn't start rowing until my husband got me into it about a year after we were married.  My first year, I rowed, but because of my size (and mouth), I became a coxswain as well.  My 2nd race to cox???  HOTC.  REALLY??  Is there a more difficult course to steer than that??  I think not. 

Anyway, back to the note at hand.  We're definitely with you!  It's a new month, and already feels like summer (I pretty sure we just skipped Spring, because it was super cold, and suddenly deathly hot).  Bathing suit season came up quick!  Now I got work it!

I'm always with you at the beginning of a new month Shea.  And Mondays for sure too - haha!  I think I need to try rowing now.  Zin... did you just mention the dreaded B word?

Haha, you guys are making me laugh. Zin, I could be a coxswain by mouth only, I'm too tall. But I love the rowing machines. If you work on form as well as weight, it's fantastic for shaping your body.

I did drink all my water yesterday, and good meals: Egg white and tomato scramble for breakfast, turkey on flatbread for lunch,  all 64 oz. of water, salad with grilled chicken for dinner, almonds for snack. I was hungry at bedtime because I stayed up too late working, but I did not give in. So I woke up starving! LOL

I am still working on my water today and haven't stopped to eat enough yet, so hoping to go easy on dinner. Egg white scramble with turkey for breakfast, snack of walnuts and too much coffee, I can tell (can you? haha). I'm going to flush the caffeine with more water and try to survive dinner without ordering and eating the whole pizza that I desperately want right now. 

Question: I've gone two days now without a significant workout. How do you fit it in? I think I just need to wake up in the morning and fall into my sneakers. What time do you exercise, Zin? Andrea, I know you're a night bird on the treadmill. How's the foot?  

I did miss yesterday, too.  I usually work out right after work.  I get out of work @ 4, and the gym is right around the corner.  So, if it's a gym workout that day, I go straight there.  If not, I pick up the kids from school first, and then work out at home.  My kids are in the aftercare program at school, so I dont' have to rush to get them, if I want to go to the gym.  Either way, I'm usually working out by 4:30, and done by 5:30.  Hubs gets home from work usually after 6 (closer to 6:30), so I still have time to cook for our daily family dinner. 

Lately I've been trying to get the workouts done at home so that I can be sure the kids get their homework done, and I can stop the DVD (if I HAVE to) to help.  It's hard, and things jump in there and interrupt my schedule at times.  But, I just do the best I can, and that's the best I can do!

The foot is a little better.  Thanks for asking.  I did get it checked out with the doc and she suggested wearing shoes in the house for greater support.  I have really high arches and she thinks walking around barefoot all the time isn't such a great idea. Said it would take a couple weeks.  So I went and picked up some indoor shoes, lol.  Boy - on one hand, I'm feeling super old at not being able to run around barefoot right now and on the other, I'm feeling like a kindergardener with the indoor shoes.  I seem to only be able to get a good workout in once the kids are in bed.  I'm hoping that'll change in September when all four are in school full time because I feel so much better getting it out of the way early in the day. Otherwise, it nags at me ALL Day.  Doing it before everyone wakes up won't work for me either - they rise at 6:20AM and I'm certainly not shining then.  Zin, too bad they don't tackle the homework with the kids at the aftercare program at school, eh?  They don't here either but mine are home at 3:15.  Shea, when does M get finished school each day?  You're doing so great with your food choices, I'm sure you won't be disappointed at your next weigh in.  

M finished in 10 days, insane. Her wisdom on the whole thing, which made me laugh and pause all at once: "The good years go by so fast." So true, so true!

She starts camp on an island off the coast of North Shore Boston the second week of July.

I like the concept of starting my day with exercise but it seems to get interrupted by other, more universally pressing concerns. Glad to hear you guys get interrupted, too. Me, not so much by my family but by having work ideas that need to be addressed instantly.

Andrea, have you tried those personalized Dr. Scholls makes? Billy and I tried them in California in CVS, I think, just getting our feet analyzed on the machine. LOL They are awesome as far as custom shoes go, apparently. Maybe that would speed up your recovery. Hopefully you'll be barefoot again before you know it and it will last all summer.

Thanks Shea, I did pick up a Dr. Scholls product for in the house and it's wonderful. What a huge difference.  I haven't come across a personallizing machine here.  Will keep my eyes open for that for sure.  Thanks for the suggestion.  I did go to what they call a 'Walking Clinic' here where they did their thing analysing my gait and insteps. They are customizing some s for my shoes.  Crazy expensive things though.  

Ten Days!!  Yikes.  That's not a lot of time.  Ours go right to the 29th of June.  No overnight camps though.  How long will M be going to camp?  Is this her first time?  Very exciting.  I have wonderful memories of riding camp from childhood summertimes.   

They do have homework time in aftercare, however some homework needs to be done on a computer, which they don't have access to at that point.  And, my kids seem to take their sweet time, so lately it's defnitely been more home work outs.  They finish school on the 24th, and the whole last week is all 1/2 days (what a freakin' waste of my tax dollars).  I digress...

Anyhow, Shea, your food choices are awesome.  While I love, love, love to cook, time is usually of the essence and I always end up throwing together "the usuals".  Just trying to get some new quick "usuals".  And, I want to be sure it's something we would all enjoy as a family.  I've always told my kids they eat whatever is for dinner.  That's because I don't really have time to cook everyone separate dinners - even if it's for myself.  So, my dinner time moto is generally more about portion control than anything else. 

When you pop up with your work ideas, can you just keep a pen & paper handy, write it down quickly, and then just get to it when you're done w/ your workout?  That usually helps me with sleeping at night.  Bedtime is often when my mind starts racing and then I can't sleep because I've got this stuff going on.  So, I keep that stuff on my night stand, so I can just write it down and get to it at a more reasonable hour.  

Listmaking at night before bed and planning the next day always puts my mind to rest. Great suggestion Zin.  Thoughts about that Shea?

I love making lists. I make them on a continuing basis, just to have a shot at accomplishing all the things that need to get done in a day. You should see my calendar! I know you guys hear that...

What keeps me from working out right off the bat is that I work from home often. We have an office in the city but there's so much going on right now, we haven't even been taking the time to commute. I fall out of bed and onto my laptop, and I'm right back to where I was @11 the night before. Much like right now. LOL

So I'm working on it. I worked till 10:30 this morning, then went for a wicked walk. It was awesome, and I realized I was not winded in the least and we took a longer route than we usually do and it took us less time than our usual. I drank my water, and even made a new interesting dinner: thin chicken breast cutlets marinated in light Italian dressing, then wrapped in tin foil and grilled. (Gave them some grill marks at the end). Then I took a high-fiber wrap, used spicy hummus for the condiment, thin slices of red pepper, greens and fresh tomato slices, then added the chicken. Awesome. Everyone loved it. I think I must be lucky what my little lovey will eat.

So water, workout and good food choices today: CHECK. :) And funny enough, somehow I ped two pounds between last Wednesday and today. I don't know what possessed me to weigh in this morning, after a weekend of flying around like nuts, up to Burlington VT for a hockey tournament that involved an awesome restaurant on Church Street, then back down to Massachusetts to watch the Boston Breakers, professional women's soccer team at Harvard Stadium, which included nachos (ouch). Huh, still lost two pounds. I was shocked and pleased but won't be surprised if it doesn't hold.

Had the most amazing meal at Sweetwater in Vermont, though. Flatbread with paper-thin pear, gorgonzola, fig jelly as "pizza sauce" and sprinkled with crushed walnuts. Whoa that was so good... and not terrible for food value. I'd give it probably 3 or 4 points on a WW scale. So worth it!

That grilled chicken wrap sounds delish!!  Did you roast the red peppers?   I love, love, love roasted red peppers.  We did those last summer, similar thing as you w/ chicken, roasted peppers, fresh mozz and basil and a little balsamic drizzle.   We did it on thin rolls, not wraps, though I think we'd be switching wraps this summer.

Great choices yesterday!!!  Keep it up!

Thank you! It's TOTALLY paying off. Wednesday Weigh-In: I am down 4 pounds since last week. Freak of nature, water weight, who knows. But I. Will. Take. It! 

Been finding it easier to make better choices in restaurants, which I'm really happy about. We eat out too much, mostly a function of how crazy busy we are, but I'm learning how to order good food that doesn't throw me off. Tuesday night, Brownie Bridge Ceremony, whole family ended up going out to celebrate. Instead of the breaded chicken and fries, I went for a chopped salad with grilled chicken in it, light on dressing. Not fancy, but really, I'm not going to get a culinary experience at a chain restaurant, so why not make it a reasonable choice that won't ruin my progress. When I stepped on the scale today, I realized how that simple shift in mind-set made a difference this week.

More gym! I need more intense workouts. Got to build in the time. I walked today again, got my heart rate going and cruised. (Skipped yesterday, just got away from me.) I am aiming for rowing/bike tomorrow and pilates on Friday. Need more water, too. Going to fill my bottle up right now.

GETTING THERE! That's eight pounds since April.

That's fantastic Shea.  I love reading all your interesting food combinations and preparations.  They sound mouthwatering.  Congrats on the walking too - and on your awesome success at the scale.  More gym ... love to hear that, but as long as you're moving around, you're doing your body a favour.  You've passed the half way point too - little reward??  Let me know...

Rocked it today! Egg white with tomato and a little provolone for breakfast, chicken and hummus wrap for lunch, almonds for snack, all my water, ground turkey enchiladas with roasted tomatoes, corn kernels and beans, side salad for dinner.

Rode 7 miles on the bike and did some weight training for my arms while the fam hit the pool. HOT out today!

I am feeling more energy than I have in a long time. I'm not sure if it's the exercise kicking in, or it's just the momentum of what I'm doing, or even just the sun coming up every day. It's good stuff, whatever the cause.

What's everyone else up to? 

Super fantastic!  I bet your sleep quality has improved as well...??  LOT of outdoor work planned for this weekend.  Taking the kids to the Barriefest at the waterfront on Sunday so have to squeeeeeeeze everything in Saturday.  Hoping to make it to the gym at least once over the weekend, but haven't managed yet.  Always on my mind.  Congrats on all your success so far.  Did you think of a half-way reward for all your focus, or are you holding off until you hit your full goal?

I am definitely sleeping better, Andrea, you're right. It's done very little but rain here the last few days, all weekend and now today. Yesterday was nice albeit a bit chilly, but we went for a long bike ride anyway. Sunday I took my daughter rollerskating and we whipped it for THREE hours. Who does that at my age? It was hilarious fun and I know I burned some calories, no doubt. So I didn't make it to the gym, per se, but I sure got my exercise in. How about you?

A reward. Hmmm. Still thinking about that. Perhaps the sandblaster-pedicure I want...

I just re-read this whole goal and realized: I have TOTALLY broken my latte habit. I wonder how much money I've saved??  

Oh, CONGRATS to you on kicking that habit!  If they're as expensive there as they are up here, you've saving a tonne.  Great job!  Sandblaster pedicure sounds like the perfect ticket.  Love it.  Also... 3 HOURS of rollerskating? That's fantastic.  I can't imagine what I'd look like on those things.  

Pedicure scheduled for today, as I have continued my streak of good food choices, lots of water, and now I've ramped up my activity, having exercised four times last week, not including the two days of sailing. That's two more pounds since last weigh-in, a total of 11 lost. AWESOME.

 Yay, pedicure.  Perfect time for it too.  Fantastic reward and you are almost there.  Incredible news.    Reward for reaching the full 15?

So close, so you know at this point, you can totally do it!!!  Can't wait for Success Story :)

 Me neither!!

Shea, just checking in.  How are things coming along as we wrap up this month?  Wishing you the best.  LOVE the new site changes.

I have not done so well last week and into this week, sadly, Andrea. Lost a bit of ground and gained 3-4 pounds back. We've just been too swamped. And I have started to slip into my old habits of not drinking enough water and not getting enough exercise (read: making excuses). I went for a long walk yesterday, which was funny because we had the chica with us on her bike. When she started heating it up, I don't know what possessed me, but I actually started to RUN alongside her.

I realized I was in better shape than I thought, because I sprinted and beat her up the street, and was not winded until the third or fourth time. But it was the first time I think I'd gotten any exercise since the week of June 20, other than the odd walk here and there. Just not making the commitment to building it into my day. Add in some pizza and here I am. But I'm keeping my chin up.

Time to get back on track, new month on the horizon! How about you guys? 

OK, back on track. Back down 2 pounds today. I am starting to see how consistency really matters in this game, otherwise I just backslide. More exercise. Water! Even those small changes will make a difference when I get slammed with work. Making that time for myself, to make it to the gym, has to start becoming my priority. I'm worth it. ;) 

See, you're back down 2 pounds already!  Great job!  And, obviously, you're in great shape anyway, whatever the 'number' says with that run you did. 

Hey Shea, I loved reading your post.  No worries about the 3-4lb slip and it's great that you're back on track.  Those kinds of fluctuations could also be timing as well - sometimes a weigh-in falls on not such a great cycle time for me and can result in a three or four pound difference on the scale.  You also seem really aware of what changes you need to make and how to refocus your efforts to get back on top.  I didn't have a very successful month in June.  It was the first month I didn't hit the distance goal I had set at the beginning of the year for each month.  Very disappointed in myself for that miss.  On the other hand, I did try some new things instead, which was a lot of fun - just not as measurable.  New month here and a fresh page.  Always feels great to face a fresh new chance to have a great month and make some real progress.  Keep up the great work Shea and by the way, how was your pedicure?  I just had one done myself for the summer (the kids are all home now) and what a difference it makes when you get a little pampering.   

That's great advice, you guys. Thanks. So here I am again, Wednesday weigh-in and I was pleasantly surprised. What they say about sustainable weight loss is actually apparently true. If you stick to one or two pounds a month it can be more or less maintained. I'm down to 11 lost again without any real effort at all. I sailed a few times in there, so I know I at least lost a bunch of water weight. LOL.

I'm looking at a plan for next week, inspired by you, Zin, with your plan-ahead strategy. If I hit it, great. If I come close, that's OK too. Just still trying to focus on building the exercise habit. Judging by how fast it slips right off my radar, I'm apparently not there yet.

I have new incentive to lose the rest of this weight, by the way. You will be interested to hear there's going to be a wedding in my future. :) Proposal accepted, July 3. Date and location to be set soon!

Down 13 pounds total since the beginning of May. I'm so close! Think I'll go for five more when I reach this goal and work harder on toning. I am not as small as I thought I'd be after losing that much, but that just goes to show how high my self-esteem is, LOL, I just didn't see what was really in the mirror! Being happy will do that for you, I guess.

I'm thrilled with the progress I've made, though being totally honest, I have not worked as hard as I could have by far. I haven't worked out at all this month. I have made huge changes in my diet, though, so I'm glad for that new habit. I am remembering what I know about health being related to good food choices, and as sick as I was all winter, I realize I played a huge role in that by eating so poorly. Next winter will be a totally different story.

Awesome updates Shea.  Interesting that I didn't receive a notification for your July 13th post which included your fantastic news.  This is me, jumping up and down for the two of you (and that's a pretty funny sight, I can assure you).  Incredible!  Congratulations once again - to both of you.  Very exciting.  LOVE weddings.  Everyone is so happy, hopeful and excited and just joyful about love and life and marriage.  13lbs! - so close to your goal!  Super fantastic for you. I bet you're about to get a whole lot busier now too... with all the wedding details, I'm sure. How is M taking the happy news?  Great to read that you've created some heathful habits while you've been working on this goal.  I believe I've read that you've also broken a few 'not so healthy' ones too.    

Hi there,

The email notifications were turned off that weekend apparently as we migrated servers to accommodate all the new content and upgrades in function. Sorry about that!

Thanks so much for the well wishes, I will keep working toward this goal and celebrate it with an exotic wedding. What could be better incentive than that? :)

 Awesome!

Helloooooo, what the heck happened to my progress?!?!

I am aware that I haven't been aware of this goal. Painfully aware. I raced in a regatta this weekend and was so sore afterward, I ached with every small step. So in addition to getting back to my water and workouts on a regular basis, I am going for strength training. I'm formulating a new plan for the end of August and all of September to see if I can get a schedule flowing once and for all. Habits! I have to build the habits and make them untouchable, because I seem to let other life events take priority at the drop of a hat.

Weigh-in on Wednesday. New puppy coming Sunday. Lots of walking in my future, and just in time. Anyone have foolproof tips for quick workouts that bring results? My soon-to-be sister-in-law did Fit for Life and lost 30 pounds! She looks amazing, amazing. I don't even know if they offer that here in the US, but I wondered if any of my Canadian supporters have heard of it or have feedback on that idea.

Thanks!

Been a rough week, again! Gah! But I'm doing all the right things today. Drank all my water already, and it's not even 6 pm yet. Ate a healthy breakfast and lunch and planning to plot out my exercise for all of September. At least going to try. Holding off the weigh-in till next Wednesday to give my spirit a fighting chance. Also because we moved and I can't find the scale. LOL. I'm thinking of going meatless one day a week, any suggestions out there for this one?

Here it is, the cusp of a new month and a new season, and I'm on track. 32 oz of water in, another 32 to go today. Getting my girl back to school should help by adding some much-needed structure to my plan. Got my week mapped out for workouts, too. We researched and wrote in our daily planners what classes, what activities and what days will work. Today is pilates, tomorrow is biking and rowing machine, Wednesday is muscle conditioning and sailing, Thursday is biking, rowing and sailing (maybe, if can fit it in), and Friday, my favorite of all classes at the gym, Pilates. If I miss it, there's family zumba at 6 pm. Then the weekend is mine! 11 pounds down, gotta hit that next mark. It's ON.

Spent some time in the last two days researching healthy body weights for heights and build, etc. and found some interesting information. The goal I was going for was the right amount of weight loss, and although I'm doing some of the right things to reach it, I'm also eating foods that could potentially be blocking my progress. According to the More magazine interview with a holistic nutritionist who has a following of major media players and celebrity chefs, there are certain foods that cause the phenomenon that we would normally attribute to water weight, but she believes it's something else altogether, it's inflammation linked to certain foods. They also, according to her research, exacerbate existing conditions we are uniquely predisposed to. This led me to consider last winter when I literally had a sinus infection/headache for nearly four consecutive months. After six courses of antibiotics, I still was not cured. It finally just went away in early May, when my eating habits changed based on the season. I eat way more fresh vegetables and other raw foods in summer.

The other day, right after the first "fall" meal of the year, I got the sinus headache right back. I almost instantly connected it to my eating habits. So I'm doing more research into "reactive" foods, which differ for each of us based on our own unique chemistry.

Sure, it sounds a little hippie-dippy, as I would not consider myself holistic-anything. But I am determined, not only to lose the last few pounds of weight, to actually feel well and stay well throughout the oncoming fall and winter. As I learn more about this topic, I will be sure to share! Starting with a three-day meal plan of low-reacive foods and then going to add in one at a time. According to what this nutritionist says, if I continue to lose weight  and feel well, I'm eating the foods that are good for my body. If I maintain my weight, I'm eating neutrally. If I gain two pounds and it stays for more than 24 hours (along with my regular workouts, etc), then that food is highly reactive and I can't process it. Very curious, and I've never been interested in the least in fad diets or food plans.

I want to beat these headaches and feel amazing! So we'll see.

Wow, look at me go. (Sarcasm.) I did finally get off my butt this morning, just felt compelled to hit the gym. Interval training on the bike, 1000 meters on the rowing maching and 32 situps. It's a start. Also drank my first 32 oz of water while I was doing all that, so it's something. Finally! Looking for some momentum here.

Two workouts in a week. I'm so happy about this! I didn't really want to go, got pulled into a work project and totally could have blown it off. It's rainy and cool, and I would have just worked all day and all night. But I put on my sneakers and went for it. Half-hour on the bike, nearly 1000 meters on the rowing machine and increased my situps to 48. Drank 32 ounces of water while I was working out, so now my daily intake seems easier to manage, already halfway through my second 32 ounces and I barely noticed, because I was thirsty! 

Momentum is hard to rebuild once you've lost it, so it feels a bit like starting from scratch. Today was a win because I remembered as I increased my intensity what it was like to push myself, how good I felt when I was working out habitually, where it was just part of the routine and I'm looking forward to getting back to that. I'm less focused on the weight and more focused on just getting out there and doing it again. I may not even weigh in until a month from now.

Good to be back on track.

Alright, I lied. LOL. I did weigh in. I couldn't help myself, I was so curious whether I'd done any good. Lost one pound, down 12 total. Three to go. C'mon! 

And now I'm nearly there pounds-wise, but thinking about it, I realize I have not yet done the work to celebrate this as a success. I have not really built the habits. What I need is some scheduling and some rote behavior to make this whole goal click.

That, and I need to dump the Halloween candy that's already in the glass pumpkins on the kitchen island. Kids. Killing me.

Gym today, after dinner, which always makes it more difficult, but the family wanted to swim, so I went along for the ride. Six miles of hilly terrain on the bike, 1,000 meters on the rowing machine, 45 situps. I drank 32 oz of water, made poached chili lime chicken breast with roasted veggies (asparagus, tricolor peppers, yellow and green squash and mushrooms with garlic, salt, pepper, fresh ground nutmeg, ground rosemary and fresh basil in olive oil), and ciabatta bread with chili oil to dip. Not a bad day overall, though I did kill a few innocent 3 Musketeers mini bars along the way. Stuck at 13 pounds but taking responsibility for why, and feeling pretty inspired by other fitness-focused goal posters here who keep trying and stay realistic about how long this goal takes to be a success story!

Shea, how's it going with this goal?  I finally came back to see how you're doing.  In October you were sooooo close.   With Frank looking like he might be in the clear and some of our trips to the hospital have been eliminated because of the condition of his blood, I know it's high time for me to get back on the horse... or rather, back to the gym.  Are you staying hydrated?  Sticking to that healthy cooking regiment you had going there?  Let us know. 

Hi Andrea, sorry to take so long to respond. I have been putting off this whole goal till I could get through the holidays. Before Christmas was so busy work-wise, I didn't make much progress then, either. I've actually gained 3 pounds, so I have 18 to lose to make my goal. I don't even have the heart to rename it ... haha

But I've done some positive things this week. I have bumped up my water intake back to 64-96 oz a day. I started eating steel-cut oatmeal for breakfast (this is Day 3), and I've had reasonable lunches and dinners. I'm cutting out alcohol for the month. I went to Pilates on Wednesday and I'm going to do it again today.

Baby steps to start over, but I feel good about it. It's a new year, we've all been through a lot, and it takes patience and consistency to change hard habits. Here we go! 

Doing great so far. I was so glad to realize, there was something wrong with my scale. Maybe I put it on a bad spot on the floor, but I really only have 7 lbs to go. I nearly freaked out, so I'm glad I went back the next day and reweighed myself. I'm doing great, did four days of pilates this week and have glugged my 64 oz of water every day. Weigh-in day on Wednesday, so we'll see. Stay tuned.

Looking forward to your progress (and, mine as well, LOL).  When does the 21 day challenge start?

Zin, 21-Day Challenge starts today! Email is going out shortly so get ready to rock it. Pick a goal, set your sights and start building the habits you need to succeed! Do you know what you're going to focus on yet? 

K.  That's what I thought, but I didn't see anything.  Looking forward to it =)

I know, we're still working on getting the information out. On the fly as usual! :) But it's going to be great and I'm so relieved this time of year has come. It helps me, and so many others, get focused on the important stuff. Get ready to share your goals and connect with a ton of people who are doing just what you're doing! 

This is going to be fun!

Alright, so I've been taking this one slowly, as there is so much else going on on the site! I can't even keep up with everyone's goals this year, which is at turns exciting and frustrating. Great that the community is growing and supporting itself, thanks to all of you. This goal is at the back of my mind, and I know I should take the 21-Day Challenge to make it more present, but at least it's on my list. I have been doing small things to make it work, trying to keep my fluids up and build habits. That is what it's all about, after all.

Starting tomorrow (since I do far better on the weekdays keeping structure), I am going to drink 64 oz of water, 50 situps and pilates. Wednesday may be the only day I can't fit it in, realistically, because we're leaving at 4:30 am to make a train to NYC and back in one day. Should be reasonably exhausting, so I'll have to work ever harder to stay on track Thursday and beyond. As long as I'm aware going into the week, I have a shot at it. Also going to set a menu and see if I can't head some of my food issues off at the pass by being prepared. This is where my grocery goal comes in!

I am psyched. I was afraid of the weigh-in today (never my proudest moment), but I was happily surprised that I had taken off 3 more pounds this week. I'm back to my August weight, which is good progress. Only 4 more to go, and if you read back in this very thread, I have been here before! Now the hard work begins. Last big effort and I just might be able to celebrate this story. Finally! C'mon, 21-Day Challenge, let's get to work!

Hello again, scale. It's been a year since I set this goal, and I have to say, I'm pretty pleased with the sustainable and healthy way I've lost 10 of the 15 pounds I wanted to lose. I've done it slowly and at the advice of my MyLifeList friends, I have not deprived myself. In fact, I think I've had more fun exploring new foods and this goal even inspired my 21-Day Challenge goal, to cut my grocery bill, which I did while still eating healthy and never feeling starved for bad stuff.

I started anew yesterday,determined to get this stubborn last 5 pounds off. I'm taking a new approach this time. I've got my whole home team in motion, thank you Team Awesome. Even the 9 year old is doing situps with me and adding 2 cups of veggies to her plate at dinner. I think this is a pretty special thing, because she's a great eater and doesn't complain, just enjoys her good food. She even ate kale salad with beets and sunflower seeds last night (just make sure you flash steam the kale then refrigerate before serving so it doesn't taste like you're eating a bush).

I have also added in a daily exercise, today and yesterday were challenging in the form of a 4-mile walk through Marblehead Neck, a gorgeous part of beachfront Massachusetts that features million-dollar homes, multiple yachtclubs and gorgeous views of the seaside. So great views. Brutal hills. Yesterday it was like doing the Boston Marathon, each looming incline looking like Heartbreak Hill from the bottom. But did it in an hour. Doesn't hurt to have my track star best friend doing it with me, she won't let me quit or push so hard I end up injured. Today seemed much easier! Now just going to add in some pilates twice this week, and one more walk. Next week I'm hoping to spin, do some muscle conditioning and maybe a ball workout to focus on my core.

Spring's here, literally Day 1 today! It's been in the 70s in Boston for the last week, with 80s on the way. More like straight to summer. I hope it stays. Good weather is so motivating! Who's with me? Other than you, BillStarr... :)

What do you mean other than me:) Wow was pretty surprised I'm enjoying my veggies. Keeping them crispy helps a bunch, as for the Kale, well I know its good for me so was able to mix it up with some of the yummier things on my plate. Go Team Awesome. 

The goal that keeps me going. I've been doing the right things, I think, eating well, drinking my water. I even started a food journal that's been helping me stay on track. The shock value works nicely, like an electical charge, when you look down and realize those few bites here and there added another 200 unhelpful calories to the day.

Did some spinning last night, and again realized (should have re-read this goal from the beginning to remind myself) it's really important to wear padded bike shorts. Really important. My butt bones are bruised. Good thing that class is only once a week. I love it and it totally fires me up. In the moment, I rock and roll. The next day, I feel like I've been riding a mule through the Grand Canyon.

Weigh in this morning, worth it: Down 2 more pounds in 10 days. Something is finally working!

Yea for 2 more pounds =)

I think I have to change my 5 lb goal that started with the 21 day, then changed to 5 lbs in March...  May be once again changing to 5 lbs in April!!!! 

Love spinning - I totally get that "day after" feeling, though.  Good stuff!

Zin, thanks! What would you say, do padded shorts fix the issue? I hesitated to buy them because they are so ridiculous, but now I realize how short-sighted that was! 

This goal has been going on a year for me. It's good to go long-term so the weight change is sustainable. But I know that feeling, the goal that never ends. I can't wait to celebrate this sucker! What kind of exercise have you been doing? I have changed it up a bit, less pilates, more cardio. Trying to figure out which is better for weight loss. I have a feeling I just have to consistently do both.

OK, so I've never used padded shorts, and probably wouldn't ever because yea, I think they would look ridiculous.  However, they do sell a padded seat you can buy and bring to the class with you.  That would be less ridiculous, and probably give you the same relief. 

Sadly, for me, the last few weeks are just yoga once a week, and sitting on my ass on my computer unless I'm sleeping (huge work project that I anticipate will be lasting me the next 2-3 months). 

Are you doing any weight training?  I think that, combined with cardio is probably the best bet, one that burns calories while you're not working out.  A great way to rev up your metabolism.  Not huge weights, even squats and lunges with some other stuff.  I'm no expert, but this is what I hear.  Now, I just need to practice what I preach!

That great, it totally reinforces what I've heard before and only dabbled with. When I did it, only for a month or so a few years ago, I did one or two weight training sessions a week, with cardio and pilates in between so muscles have time to heal, it was seriously the best shape I've ever been in. It was designed by a personal trainer in LA, I should scan it and post. It's awesome. I forgot about that! 

Padded seat. Brilliant. I'm going online right now. Thanks! 

Yes, please do post!!!

Shea, did you ever find a seat?  How are your classes going?  What else have you been doing to achieve this goal?

Zin, you're the best, to continue to check on me. Thanks so much! 

I did find a seat, and I also found the most awesome invention, which is a brief with bike padding that can be worn under anything. On the REI website, Novara padded cycle briefs, $25.

And I am making good progress (though I have GOT to get the Easter candy out of my life!). Did the personal training session Wednesday, still can barely move, but I did pilates yesterday and that helped for sure. Going to do that again today, to see if I can get some of my muscle motion back. Brutal but good. Lots of lunges will do that. Hopefully I'll start to see some real results now that I'm committed (re-committed, LOL).

I have decided that yogurt tastes like sadness. But I am eating that for breakfast every day, with cheerios in it, to take some of the guesswork out of what I'm doing. I'm not a breakfast eater, so this is going to take some getting used to. I read that making two meals standard (same thing every day), you have a better chance at breaking through the plateau. I will report back my success! 

How are you doing? I gotta check your goal!