Utah bound

Bloggercizers, sistahs, friends -- i've been a lame blogger but not a totally lame exerciser -- and i am quite excited about my visit to Utah next week! Life has been a bit crazy lately and i haven't been as mindful about WW or about exercise as i'd like, but i feel myself getting back into a better rhythm with more balance, and i like that. And no doubt we can inspire each other when we're together! Beth, I hope the running is going well. Sarah, I hope you're bellydancing daily this summer. Amy, I hope your ankle is supporting you in all your summer endeavors. And i look forward to a sistah-stroll together with you very soon!

sistas?

Hi girls. I hope everyone is exercising more than were posting about it. Well last time I posted about running... i think I got a little ahead of myself because the 3rd time I ran it took me a week to recover. My sciatic was not happy about the new plan. So I'm back to walking and I'm going to incorporate some weights and toning this week. My goal is 5x's. I want to run really bad because it felt so invigorating, and like I would really get some results. I just need to be patient. Look forward to hearing from you all.

hi everyone

Hi exercizers.  I am still alive.  It has been hard to post lately for some reason.  I have been exercising though.  I am very faithful with my 2x's a week kickboxing and usually 1 time on the elliptical.  I feel like I should add one more day of something though.  My kickboxing is so intense that it makes me feel like I am exercising more than I am.  I have decided to not do Curves anymore.  With my kickboxing it just wasn't fitting in.   I will probably add another elliptical day.

That is great that you are running Beth.  I don't know if that would feel too good on my body.  I've never been much of a runner but I always wanted to be.  I'm glad everyone sounds like they are doing well.  

Beth - congrats on the jogging, and on the intact uterus ! I'm impressed and glad. Exercise here has mostly been walking, because it's been so beautiful outside that the gym is not nearly as appealing as a walk by the lake. I do think I work out harder at the gym, though, so as the temps climb it'll be time to return to that part of the world. How are the sistah-friends doing? Hope everyone is very well indeed and look forward to seeing you soonish!

running.

So I've decided since the weather is beautiful and I'm getting tired of my elliptical that i'm going to start running.
I'm starting very slow to see if my body is ready for such a thing.
this week i'm going to run a block ; walk a block for 20 min. then have 5 min walking warm up and cool down.
I did it once and it was hard but doable. I got a side ache, but everything else was pretty good. I was worried my uterus would fall out or something, But all was well.

muscle mania

Hello bloggercizers! Just checking in with my Utah connections and hope everyone's doing well. Beth, you've done a good thing starting this blog, because it sounds as if we're all in a state of focus and awareness about exercise stuff that we might not be in otherwise -- so thanks for turning your techno-savvy to our advantage! It's been a good exercise week here (spring and good weather helps a lot), and the next session of WW started yesterday, which is really why i'm writing. Yesterday's class focused on metabolism, and at least according to the leader, very few people actually medically have a slow metabolism -- she claims that it's almost completely a function of muscle mass, and the more muscle you have, the more calories you burn. I'm not totally sure i believe that there aren't some basic biological differences in how quickly people burn calories, but in any case i know that point about muscle mass is true -- and a good argument for strength-training and weights and other things of that nature. More muscle means you burn more calories even if you're just sitting around, at the movies, sleeping, watching Oprah, etc. -- and what's not to love about that?

wow!

The girls are back! Bonnie great job on 14 lbs. Never feel like that isn't very much. That is awesome. You are an inspiration to us. Slow and steady is the way to do it right. I had a good exercise week doing some toning,elliptical, and yard work. I want to have even a better work out week. I've been doing some exercises out of the 5 factor diet book. There is a 25 minute workout that interests me. I want to continue that this week, and also follow some of the recipes for dinner. Contact me if you want to join me. Good luck beautiful girls.

we're back!

Hello bloggerellas! Nice to see some springtime signs of new life here on the blog. Beth, sounds like a wonderful trip to Hawaii, and I'm glad you had such a good time. Amy, I'm glad you've been exercising in the great out-of-doors, but you have been missing some good Oprahs lately -- something to keep in mind for a rainy day! I've been doing pretty well with exercise lately, and am about to diversify my routine -- I haven't swum for exercise in several years, but I have a few friends who are doing it and that's whetted my appetite. So, today I'm going to try out the pool at the gym, and we'll see how that goes. As for WW: yes, I'm still on that train. I'm doing an at-work program, and it runs in 17-week installments -- the first installment ended last week and it wasn't clear that they were going to get enough people to renew for the next 17 weeks, but I just heard that we did -- so WW formally restarts next Wednesday. I lost 14 pounds during this first series -- that's really not as much as I'd planned or hoped, but then I'm quite sure that it's about 14 lbs more than I'd have lost had i not been doing WW -- and just this week several people have mentioned that they can see a difference, so that is of course motivating -- so I will keep on keeping on with that. I'm looking forward to seeing you all in not so very long!

Yes girls, I'm alive!

Actually, you all know that I'm still alive but I'm also actually alive in blogland! I guess I must repent!!! I just fell off the wagon. I will commit to do better because I miss you!! I have still been exercising but have to admit that most of my exercise is outside instead of the 'ol basement. It's a nice break but I kind of miss Oprah occassionally. Anyway, I still have my 5 day/week goal. I am still trying to be faithful with my toners before I go to bed at night. Beth and I were talking yesterday about an eating/exercise plan and I think I'm more committed than I've been in about 3 years - so that's good right?! I'm very proud of you girls for hanging in there!!! Bonnie, I didn't ask you today how you are doing with WW?

I'm alive!

Sisters in blogland. I have returned. My trip to Hawaii was a dream. Kauai is so beautiful! It confirmes to me that God really did create this amazing world for our enjoyment because of his love for us. Utah is pretty too, but it was nice to have a change of scenery. But as far as diet and exercise i need to get back in the groove. I'm going to do something 5 days a week this week. Some cardio and toning. What are you all doing with your eating. Bonnie are you still doing w.w.? I hope Sarah is having fun in the sunny Flordia. Watch out for crocodiles! Bonnie, starting to count the minutes till your arrival in Utah. Okay maybe the weeks, but we are excited to see you. I'll let you know my exercise of choice.

wow - it has been slow in blogland

I was so surprised when I just checked the blog that Bonnie was still the last post.  Well, I am still alive and I know Amy is alive  in real life but I'm not sure her life in blogland.  Beth has been frolicking on the beaches of Hawaii so that is a good excuse.  As for my excuse I don't really have one other than having a busy week getting ready for our Disney World trip.  We leave tomorrow so my exercise is going to entail 10 hrs of walking a day.  I'm sure I will skip the toners at night due to deep fatigue.  I have been doing well on my exercise lately.  2 x's a week for kickboxing and then 20 min on my elliptical 2/3x's a week.  It has been feeling good and like I am really in the habit of it now.  Now if I could get my eating to cooperate I would be on my way!  I hope everyone is still alive and exercising away.  I'll check back in a week when I am back from vacation - hopefully there will be some updates.

has utah been obliterated?

I certainly hope not, but there has been a lot of blog silence from my westerly neighbors!

Just this week I have gotten back into a good exercise groove, though I'm reminded by reading my last entry that I have not yet reintroduced the pedometer into my routine. Tomorrow, it returns -- just in time for our first 80+-degree day of the year!

Hope all my sistah-friends are doing well and are off the blog for fun and delightful reasons....

back in the saddle

My dear bloggercizers -- sounds like you all have some nice travels on the horizon...Park City...Hawaii....somehow my trip to Des Moines later this week doesn't quite measure up! But I have awakened this morning with new determination: still snuffling a bit, but my energy level is back and it's time to get back on the wagon, with eating and exercise both. I took some days off over the weekend, partly because i was sick, partly because it was easter, and partly just because, and it was instructive: by the end of easter dinner and assorted other little treats here and there, i realized i actually do feel a lot better if i'm eating mindfully and exercising more. That's not rocket science, and it's a lesson i seem to re-learn every few months -- but having relearned it now for the umpteenth time, today I am back on track. Pedometer: yes. To the gym: yes. And I'm going to aim for some form of exercise Tuesday - Saturday this week. So - good for you and the kickboxing, Sarah, and good for you and the fit-your-capris plan, Beth, and we'll all keep on keeping on. I'm excited to see you all in a couple of months!

hello everyone

Just checking in before I head out the door to Park City.  I'm thinking it might be a bad exercise week.  I will do  my best, but since it will be me and 3 children, I think it will even be hard to make it to  the hotel gym.  Maybe I could do toners in the room.   Anyways, that is so exciting about Hawaii Beth.  I wish I was going.   I hope everyone is still going on their goals.  I think it is a matter of just keeping on going.  When there is a bad week, start again.  Keep trying right?  I am feeling a little stronger from my kickboxing class.  I think it has been a good addition.  My body seems to be able to get stronger but not smaller.  Have a good week everyone.

me again.

Well girls. hope everyone had a good Easter. Today is a new day. One week until I get on the airplane to go to Hawaii. I'm going to walk this week hoping the weather is great! I'm also going to eat lightly so my only capris I have will fit for the trip. They are a little tight on the waist. Lets keep moving! I want to hear how you all are doing.

more illness.

Must be that time of year. I too have suffered the last three days with a nasty head, sinus cold which has now traveled to my lungs and voice box. Hopefully that mean i'm almost done. I hope you start recovering soon Bonnie. Yoga sounds fun. I think though I'm officially losing steam, even though I really don't want to. HELP! I need a pep talk or something. Or maybe a reality check from Dr. Oz. about my mommetum and waste line. How can I regain excitment. Love my sista's!

breathing is good

Sistah-friends! Blogville, Illinois has been quiet because I've been down for the count with a really nasty cold/bronchitis -- mostly I've managed to go about my daily business, but, sadly, exercise has been out of the question. I have a friend who's training to be a yoga instructor, and she wants to practice teaching on me, since I'm a blank slate when it comes to yoga -- we had our first session Sunday evening, but had to halt it because the allegedly "calming" breathing exercises found me generating an alarming, rattly, tubercular sound! I think I'm on the mend now, and may head back to the gym tonight if I'm still standing by then. But really, my goals for the week are a return to health, a return to normal energy, and one or two workouts. Once I'm back in fighting form, I do want to get the pedometer out -- i've gotten out of that habit but i'd like to get back in, because i think i did walk more when i'd get that tiny little treat of seeing 10,000 steps! Hope you're all doing well this week!

Another week

Hi everyone.  The blog posts seem to be coming a little slower lately.  I am still working away at my exercising.  Last week I did kickboxing twice and Curves once.  I'm hoping to be able to move enough in between my kickboxing classes that I can get a walk or elliptical in.  My muscles have been quite sore after my class and I don't feel like doing much.  It seems like I just need to get used to it.  This old body hasn't seen that kind of action since The Palace aerobics.  In many ways it is feeling like a great discovery...my mind and my body feel better with more intense exercise.  I would love to be able to add some food goals to everything but I am still feeling a little broken on that part.  I'm pleased to see that some of you are pulling it all off.  It gives me hope.  I hope everyone is hanging in there.

Hi Girls.

Had a good 5 days of exercise this week. A mixture of walking and ellipticalling. This week looks a little warmer in the forcast, so looking forward to another 5 days of exercising. It feels good to be consistant. How are you all doing? Hope everyone is happy and feeling good. I'm off to bed. Looking forward to hearing from you!

Kickboxing!

FROM AMY
Kickboxing!! Never done it... but I've imagined myself doing it and it's funny. Maybe that's something we can do when we have our "reunion". Sarah you can for sure be our protector!! I'm trying to hang on to my routine this week. I put of my exercise this a.m. as long as possible and then finally went to my basement at 1:00 in my pj's to do my elliptical. It felt good to conquer my "blah's" but I think I'm have a little seasonal depression too. Let's keep pushing forward and maybe one of these days we'll wake up to a beautiful spring day!!! Love you girls!

I want Sarah with me in any dark alley...

Kickboxing! I did do that for awhile a few summers ago, and it is a MAJOR workout -- i liked it a lot, but my gym doesn't offer it so I haven't done it lately. Sarah can be our group's designated protector if we find ourselves in any dark alleys with ominous strangers leering and looming...

I'm back in Evanston after my week of tending to the gimpy -- my mom had a rough few days post-surgery but seems to be stable and progressing well now. I did actually keep in the exercise groove while I was there, because the weather was good and going outside for long walks was the nicest way to escape the confines of the hospital -- and I even went to the gym when I got home yesterday! My goal for this week is to have five days of good exercise -- gym maybe, but if it's nice, outside -- and to keep on working the WW thing. I seem to have broken through my stall and am making SLOW but nonetheless steady downward progress.

Hope everyone has a good week!

new week!

Kickboxing! yes I've done that a few times and it was really fun and a lot of work. Afterward I felt dizzy. Wish I could do the class with you to add some variety to my life. We have a lot of snow today and it's really cold. I feel a little seasonally depressed, but fighting through it! I guess I will be doing elliptical today and possible this week. I want to start my floor routine again as well. I took the week off and need to get back to my sit-ups. Have a great week sisters in exercise!

Saturday Morning...FROM AMY

I'm pretty sure I'm still not very good at this since I can't seem to post without doing it a few times!!!!!!! Anyway...good to hear from your girls. I'm glad we're still on track. Bonnie, how's your mom? Tell her "hello" and "quick recovery". Are you getting in any walks while you're there or are you on duty? My cold is better so I'm getting back to business today. I'm heading down to the elliptical right now and then hoping to do some yard work if it's warm enough. I've also decided that I'm going to "embrace" going up and down the stairs at my house instead of pretending that I mostly just live on one floor of my house. I'm thinking that I may become a better housekeeper this way and also count it as a workout. I'll keep you posted on how many times I go up and down. Well good luck to us all in our efforts to keep on exercising!!!!!!

Saturday Morning

hello all

I'm glad everyone is still alive.  I had kind of a slacking week last week...I just felt tired and let that slow me down.  I am back to committed this week.  I hope your Mom has a speedy recovery Bonnie.  My neighbor just  had that done a couple months ago and  now seems to move around better than she was before her surgery.  Kelly and I did have a new exercise discovery this week.  I had heard about a kickboxing class a few blocks from my house so we tried it out on Tuesday and Thursday.  I don't know if any of you have tried kickboxing but it was such a good workout.  We almost perished.  After my Thursday class I could feel my low back injury flare up but it was a quick recovery.  By this morning I felt fine

Well good luck to everyone in exerciseland.  

keep on keepen on.

yes, I did have a few days where exercise was not happening due to a little travel. I didn't sneek in a midnight elliptical, but I did think about it if that counts. But today I'm back on my feet and just got off my elliptical. Feels good. Bonnie, I hope your mom recovers quickly. I wish her well. look forward to reading more from all of you.

object lessons

Hey sistah-friends! Hope everyone's doing well, or well enough, this week, with colds and changes of venue etc. I'm in Des Moines at the moment -- my mom had knee replacement surgery yesterday, so I'm here for support, moral and otherwise. Surgery went well and she seems to be rehabbing as expected so far, but the whole thing is a useful object lesson: namely, it's better to keep your original joints if you can! And exercise will help us do that. So, for the moment I'm just walking hospital corridors etc., but the whole experience is just more support for Beth's point that a strong, healthy body is the wisest goal we could have. Keep the faith, bloggercizers!

exercising blues is Amy not Beth

FROM AMY
Wow I guess my wrist kept hitting publish! I'm only checking in to report that I have only exercised once this week!!!! I have a little cold that I feel like shouldn't be stopping me but I guess it is. I was going to do better this week too! How are you girls doing??? Do we need to renew our blogging committment? How is WW going Bonnie? I hope Sarah blogs because I know she has an exciting new exercise routine. Beth has probably experienced some exercise difficulties too since she was at my house for a couple of days this week unless.... she snuck it in at midnight on my elliptical and treadmill and I didn't know about it????
Kelley are you still there?

exercising blues!

Exercising blues!

Well I'm still alive

FROM AMY
W ell I really have to repent for my lack of blogging!!! I have missed you guys! I have to blame it on Christopher taking the laptop to school with him so when I want comp. time I have to walk all the way upstairs and sit in a "not so comfy" chair. Pretty pathetic excuse but I think it's true. It sounds like you are all really plugging along! I have been mixing up my exercising also with outside time and elliptical and floor work. It is now back to winter weather so back inside I go. I also am using Neutrogena tanner and I like it. My legs are definately darker but not DARK. Bonne, I think you'll be impressed with how tan we will be by the time you get here! So...any ideas for our bloggercizing reunion???? I really can't wait!!!
I am trying to eat better this week also. I'm trying to increase my water because I've noticed I really feel better when I'm drinking enough. Any pedometer users left? Well carry on girls!! I'm really trying to focus on Beth's theory of just appreciating a healthy body!

how is our momentum?

Hi friends in blogland. Bonnie i'm so proud of you for sticking with the w.w. even if it's slow progress. It not about the lbs its about forming good new habits that will reward us throughout life. I'm also very excited about your Utah trip. I hope you can make it down to Manti. That would be so fun. I don't think I've seen you since you went to BYu for a summer and lived in raintree apts.
Well last week was a wonderful week of 70 degrees and walking outside. It was wonderful. I walked up temple hill each day pushing a double stroller and usually carrying a baby in arms. I got breathless each time and it felt great. This week it's back to 40 degrees. I did the elliptical for 25 min. and will do that 4 more times this week. I hope you all are thinking positive thoughts about yourselves. We all have legs and bodies that allow us to move around and get the job done. OUr jobs are outside the spotlight so we don't need to have bodies that look like were in the spotlight, just bodies that are healthy and work to do the job that we are doing. I'm really trying to refocus on having a healthy temple, not a thin temple. I think one is achievable and one isn't. happy exercisng!

Leg Lift Roundtable

O, Sarah, you are all over it -- I look forward to in-person demonstrations of leg-lift techniques, belly-dance moves, free-weight strategies, and who knows what else -- BloggercizerFest 2009 is on!



Meanwhile, back at the ranch, it's clear to me that you must have more spring than we do, because this whole self-tanner discussion is purely theoretical at the moment. It's about 25-30 degrees here and not nice weather for baring freakishly white legs or much else, really. Despite this, WW and exercise proceed pretty well. I'd hit a three-week stall at WW and was just about losing patience with it, but then finally this week i had a good loss which provides some good motivation. Exercise has been pretty smooth -- mostly gym trips, with a couple of walks earlier this week when we had a little taste of warmth.



So -- happy weekend all around, and let the exercising continue!

A funny

An older woman was leading the class in weight loss. When the instructor asked her what her secrect was she said, "simple, I just take my teeth out at 6:00."

A little readers digest joke. Thought it was cute. Good Night!

hello bloggercizers

That is excited news Bonnie.  I think we should all get together and take a walk or better yet (if we want it more entertaining) do a Jane Fonda video.... or better yet  I will bring over my belly dancing DVD.  After that we can go to Joe Bandido's for some lunch.  And order the half plates of course.  

I have started out my exercise week rather smoothly believe it or not.  I have made it to Curves the last couple of days.  I can tell from my calendar that they might be my last times there this week, but at least I made it.  I did do my elliptical 10 minutes yesterday and hope to get down there and do about the same today.  I am feeling a loss that the belly dancing class ended last week.  I am trying to shimmy around the house whenever possible though to keep those core muscles alive.

I must report more on my self tanner because I may have led you all astray.  Everything was true, as far as how the lotion applied, that I reported earlier between the Aveeno and Olay.  I noticed,  after a week or so of faithfully trying the Olay,  my legs were only microscopically darker.  Only the trained eye could tell the difference.  I could tell by Kelly's reaction when I asked her if my legs looked darker that it really was only me that could tell a slight tint to the regular 'glow in the dark' look.    At least with the Olay Bonnie, you would never have to worry about it looking streaked.  It is very very mild.  I have now switched to the Neutrogena and I will let you all know how it goes.  I do want them to look a little tan if I am going through the trouble of applying it.

I hope everyone is having a good week.  It sounds like everyone is over their sicknesses from last week.   I really think it has been long enough now that we can call ourselves regular exercisers.

Bonnie will be exercising in Utah

Yes, bloggercizers, a summer visit has now been scheduled: June 24-29 will find me visiting Amy, and perhaps we'll all take a nice long bloggercizer walk together! Or maybe we'll just apply self-tanner and sit around commenting on how nice our legs look. We'll see.

It is spring break here, and beautiful weather, so my plan is like Beth's: walking outside for at least 30 minutes, probably 3-4 days, and then the gym 2 days. Good plan with the three meals and two snacks, Beth, and also the no-nighttime-eating.....I always seem to have more success when I can cut myself off at night. Hope it goes well!

Beth is having chunky feelings!

It is amazing how gross I feel after not exercising for one week. I'm sure I look the same. I think exercising really boosts self confidence. So the weather is sunny and cool this week, and I"m excited to get some fresh air. I have a goal of taking 5, 30 minute walks this week. Then continue with my regular floor exercises. So, I continue to be grateful for your support. I love checking in on all of you. Keep up the hard work, one day.....results will follow. Lisa and I are also supporting eachother with a 3 meal a day 2 snack routine, and no eating after 7:00pm. It feels good to not eat after 7:00. I'm always starving in the morning.

I forgot to sign in below as AMY

The last post is FROM AMY

Wow I don't feel like exercising today!

I have to admit I've felt so sluggish the last couple of days in the exercise dept. I'm determined to still get it in today but it's getting a little later in the day where I lose even more ooomph. (is that a word?) So Bonnie, I think you should give the tanner another try because it has improved. You might be surprised how much sexier your legs will feel! I'm using aveeno so I guess I should use it up and go buy some olay!

i have the legs of an albino

Seriously: I burn to a crisp without high-SPF sunscreen, but I can leave my legs alone and they remain pasty white no matter what. So once when i had to show some leg at a wedding, i used some self-tanner -- and, for the next several weeks, proceeded to leave orange smears in my wake wherever I went. I have horrible memories of self-tanning! But maybe the technology has improved.

Pretty good exercise regularity to report here, with the promise of better to come: next week is spring break, and tomorrow it starts to warm up, and both of those things will make it easier to do all the exercise I'd like to. WW is SLOW -- like, nothing has happened the last couple of weeks -- but I'm trying to keep the faith regardless. Sounds like you all have been doing the same -- so, good for us! Beth, I hope you're feeling better.

I'm so glad you all have come back

Ever since my post last Thursday, I kept checking back and nobody else was blogging.  I'm pleased everyone is still alive and exercising.  I am moving right along in the exercise department as well.  I think the only thing I will do today is my belly dancing but that is pretty good exercise so I'm feeling pretty fine about the whole thing.   I have been doing the self tanner on my legs as well since Amy mentioned it last week and I agree it does help.  I would like to give my first consumer report and say that between Olay and Aveeno...Olay is tons better.  The Aveeno one feels like it lays on top of my skin and doesn't sink in and makes me feel all sweaty.  The Olay sinks right in and feels good on my skin.  I do wish it would get a little darker though.  I'm not sure if this particular one get's dark enough for my liking.     Well, I'm glad everyone is still around.  It was pretty quiet there for awhile in blogland.  Carry on.

I am a blogger again!

FROM AMY
I'm so glad to be back...I have been with you in spirit just not in word!!! For some reason my "invitation" expired and Beth had to re-invite me. I hope it doesn't happen to all of you too --I felt a big void!!! I have been faithful to my goals until today. I never exercised today and now it's 10:45 and I'm too tired. I will be at it again bright and early tomorrow though. I have felt pretty sluggish this week while I'm exercising and don't know if it's mental or physical. It doesn't feel like it does a person as much good when your whole heart and soul isn't into it! I don't feel like I'm getting skinny from all this exercise either but here's my special idea of the last two weeks...I put self tanner on my legs and I feel quite a bit better about them!! If any of you would like to try it...we could have a fun discussion about it. :)

sick

i to have been sick for a few days. I'm going to take 1 more day without exercise, then have a goal of 2x's this week. I'm feeling a little discouraged since the lack of exercise for a few days. But after talking to Amy today I think I'm happy just exercising even If I don't get visual results. I do want to be healthy and strong. So for that reason I will carry on. How is everyone else feeling?

can sisters exercise?

Just checking in, since it's been quiet in blog-ville lately -- how's everyone doing? Slow and steady is the mode here: I've been fighting some kind of virus so have been taking it easier the last few days, but I'm off to the gym in mere moments -- which is what made me think to check in! Hope everyone is doing ok.....

preparing for a little belly dancing

Hello all.  My week is moving right along as well.    I made it to Curve's this morning and am anxiously awaiting my belly dancing class tonight.  We only have a couple classes left.  I'm hoping they might offer something in the summer.  I want to keep strengthening my core.  It seems really good for my car accident injury.  I have felt a little discouragement this week of slow (or maybe no) progress from all this exercise -at least as far as it making me smaller.  It seems like I should start seeing some benefits by now but I guess I will just have to focus on the improvement in health and well-being.   Chunky and healthy......I guess it could be worse.

rocky road...

Amy, I can tell that someone fixed your exercise tv -- the skype reference gives you away as an Oprah-cizer -- she's a skype addict! But I must admit the idea is intriguing, and good for you and your vigorous elliptical workout, stretches, etc. I did get over yesterday's malaise and had a good gym session last night -- but today at WW I realized that these gym sessions are catching up with me! I haven't lost much at all the last couple of weeks, despite my diligence, but the leader pointed out today that I'm probably turning fat into muscle, especially because i have a lot of muscle to rebuild after last year's post-surgical atrophy. In the long run, of course, that's nothing but good -- but it's a short-term downside to exercise! I'll have to rely on things like inches, how clothes fit, etc., for motivation --and, of course, on my fellow bloggercizers! Hope everyone's staying committed this week -- tomorrow we finally leave the deep freeze, and i think the option of exercising outside will boost my interest in exercising!

Are you there?

FROM AMY
It's probably bad form to post twice in a row but hey...I'm on the blog so it might as well be me. My t.v. is back on and running thanks to my oldest child that knows how to fix remote problems. I did a pretty vigorous elliptical workout and then my stretches etc. etc. I hope everyone else is chugging right along too. Too bad we can't all skype and exercise together sometimes. That would be pretty funny don't you all think? Then we could demonstrate leg lifts and belly dancing! I hope you guys had a good Wednesday...be STRONG!!!!

I feel like a NUMB rock

FROM AMY
I haven't exercised yet today (it's 1:12 pm). I got back from the dentist a couple of hours ago and my face is still numb and for some reason it makes me even LESS motivated to go exercise. It's beautiful outside so I think I'm going to try to go for a walk. The only trick I have for motivation is thinking how proud I am of myself after I'm done and how lousy I feel when I skip a day or two. Having said that, I still hope I can get myself going today. My tv is on the fritz downstairs. This is really cramping my style with my elliptical. I'm trying to decide whether I should go buy a more quality pedometer. I don't really enjoy the feeling of it on my waist but maybe it's worth it???? Bonnie, is the weather nice enough to go walking outside or are you back into winter? Well I wish everyone well on their goals for the week!!!

i feel like a rock...

...and not in that rock-hard abs way.....more in that very inert, having-a-hard-time-motivating-myself way.....which brings me to my question: what tricks do you ladies use to get yourself to exercise on days you don't feel like it?

Once I overcome my lethargy, I'm going to (a) recommit to the pedometer this week -- i've gotten out of the habit and would like to get back in, because i think i walk more when i know i have the tiny thrill of seeing the total number of steps; (b) make three gym trips and exercise on two other days as well; and (c) get in touch with my inner Jane Fonda and throw some leg lifts into the mix, a la all of you.

So - good luck to all of us, and we will rock on!

We're going to rock?

OK that sounds good to me.  I would like to have a good week.  Last week went pretty well although I was short a couple of elliptical times.  I did go to Curves this morning and did my elliptical for 15 minutes.  I haven't worn my pedometer for awhile.  I will try to remember to put it on tomorrow morning.  I will stick to my previous weekly goals.  I feel good when I do them all.  Good luck everyone.

NEW WEEK

FROM AMY
This must be a quick check in because the kids are getting ready to come in the door from school. I am quite excited about my new week of exercise. I worked out in the yard today and then went on a 25 min. walk. My back and arms feel pretty tired. Bonnie, are you doing Jane Fonda leg lifts? I put the pedometer on today - for the first time in a long time. It fell off twice and reset itself before I had even checked my steps so I took it off. Are you girls still using yours??? I'm going to try to alternate my elliptical with working/walking outside this week. Any good food goals for the week?? Let's stay strong!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Okay Girls. Are you ready to Rock!

I'm ready to have a better week of exercise. Last week was a little rough for me because I was so busy and tired. But I'm ready to have a perfect week.
25 min on elliptical 5x
floor routine 5x
look forward to reading about how your d oing.

Jane Fonda lives! In Utah, anyway.

Aha! I'm glad I asked, because when I think "leg lifts," I think laying flat on my back, lifting my legs vertical to 90 degrees, then lowering slowly -- so that's an ab/core thing mostly, but yours sound like they'd be a butt/thigh thing. I never do your kind -- maybe I'll get in touch with my inner Jane Fonda and give that a try. Amy, I don't envy you your throw-up bowl -- though we did also learn at WW yesterday how good it is to incorporate every tiny bit of incidental exercise you can, and i suppose getting up and down off the couch to empty said bowl might just qualify! Not to mention that the whole scene is probably also a good appetite suppressant....

Kudos to all of us -- and don't you think we'll get an extra dose of motivation as it gets to be more spring-like and thus more inviting outside? Something to look forward to.....

I like the new blog background!

FROM AMY:
I have been pretty successful in my exercise plan this week - until today. Mya has been throwing up since yesterday afternoon and Scott had oral surgery this a.m. So...I'm on the couch , my only exercise being getting up and down and getting gauze, soup, and emptying the throw up bowl. Are you all jealous?
Yesterday I took a great hour long walk in the beautiful weather and the day before I walked and ellipticalled so maybe that makes up for today and probably tomorrow. My leg lifts are also Jane Fonda style ( on my hands and knees and lifting my leg out and then back) . My legs and rear end burn after a VERY short time. Congrats Bonnie on your weightloss. Anyone else's body changing? Some days I really think I'm making some progress and then other days my pants feel kind of tight. Maybe I should get on a scale one of these days? I'm proud of us!!!!

I'm so proud of all of us. I have to say that we are doing so well! I think we are all getting really into our exercising! I don't know what everyone else is doing for leglifts, but I'm just doing the old fashion jane fonda leg lift. It seems to be enough for me because my legs burn after 30 on each side. if anyone has any other miricle ones, I would like to know about it. My 25 min. on the elliptical is happening. It feels kinda boring especially if I have to watch one of the kids shows. I'm still trying to cleanse my brian of my food plan issue. Bonnie i"m very impressed with your w.w. success.

your illinois correspondent reports

I wish I were heading off on an RV adventure today! But since I'm not, I'll just report the news from here. First, exercise has been happening -- in fact, I was at the gym last night, and there were some Northwestern students doing serious ab exercises next to me, which made me wonder: when you guys say you're doing "leg lifts," what are you doing, exactly? Second, WW has also been happening -- a little frustrating lately, just because it's been slow, but nonetheless I'm down 11 pounds and that's not nothing, so i will report it. The useful lesson I learned at our little encounter group today: when you think you really want to eat something, wait 15 minutes; most of the time that will be enough to forget about it, but if you still really want it, probably you should eat it! I think i've tried that in the past with some success, so i'm just tossing it out there are a potentially useful idea.....and I hope everyone is having a lovely Wednesday!

Still exercising along

Hello all.  Just reporting in with the exercise world.  I have kept the same goals this week.  I was able to pull off Curves and elliptical on Monday.  Tuesday and today just elliptical.  Instead of Curves this morning I exercised my 'Mother letting go" muscle and sent Lena on her grand adventure in the RV with Grandma and Grandpa.  Quite an exciting moment.  That means I will have to pull off going tomorrow and Friday to Curves.  I have had luck with a little more veggies this week.  I have been making some yummy salads for lunch.  It simply is more time consuming but it really does fill me up to add all the veggies.  Hope everyone is having a good week.

I feel like it has been a long time since I reported in. I just wanted to tell you about a calorie tracker I have been trying. It is sparkpeople.com. It is free and it keeps track of what you eat and exercise. I was really good last week recording all I ate and exercised. It got mad at me toward the end of the week with the amount of exercise I was doing. I have been faithful at Curves and walking at least 3-4 days a week. We only walk about 2 miles. I will increase in a few weeks.

goals!

Well this week I'm going to try to amp it up a bit. I ready for some results! I feel like i'm right on the verge, but nothing is really happening. But I can't forget that I'm sure my heart is happier!
So.....
25 min on the elliptical 5X's this week (or walk)
150 situps
30 leg lifts
15 push-ups

Something that helps me in the veggie dept. is if at the beginning of the week I cut up a whole bunch of good veggies and put them in zip locks. And even cooking up some chicken breasts and putting them in the fridge. Then daily salad are a snap! So that is what i'm going to do for this week. I"m also going to try to go to bed hungry every night. Not starving just a tinge on hunger.
I'm officially going to Hawaii April 19th so this gives me something to look forward to and stay motivated. Dane and I are going to reward ourselves for being apart for 12 weeks and surviving it. Taking baby of course! He will just be getting done with his training and be very in shape. I can't let this depress me. I know I will feel better about myself if I at least keep exercising diligently. I'm also going to look into lipo of Utah and see what my options are. Just kidding. (kind of). Love you all. NObody get hurt this week!

Sunday blues!

FROM AMY:
I'm sitting here at my computer hoping it will cheer me up. I knew that the thought of you ladies would for sure cheer me. My primary class that I taught today was a nightmare!! The kids were out of control! So even though that is not an exercise topic it made me feel better to tell you. As for my exercise for the week- I felt much better about it than the week before. I actually only did 5 days instead of my goal of 6 but I still feel pretty good about it. I did do better with the vegetables than my usual but I can't say that I've enjoyed it. I think this week I'm going to try to do some salads for lunch which means lots of cutting. The juicer is a great idea but I don't have one. My exercise goal for this week is going to be my usual of 6 days. I'm going to try to add some outside walks if the weather stays nice. Bonnie, did you get the blizzard? Are you snowed in? I wish you all a happy week of exercise!!! Thanks for the motivation!!!!!

hello gals

Congratulation on all your efforts and recoveries! Dane and I are thinking about buying a nice juicer, so it would be fun to report some good juicing ideas. I have been diligent in my exercising. I haven't missed a day this week. today I went on the most lovely, challenging walk. I can't wait to do it again and all spring. I found a road around the temple that is against the mountain. It is all uphill! My legs feel a little shaky tonight which is a wonderful sign. I wish one of you could join me. I haven't had as much computer time the last few days, but I think about all of you everyday! You motivate me!

another week done

Well it was a good elliptical week but a not so good Curve's week.  Overall I feel pretty good about it since I did 20 minutes each day (except for one) on the elliptical instead of 10.  My back even survived.  Our belly dancing class always feels like the best exercise of all.  I think if I did that everyday I would be in excellent shape.    I am wondering how you 'increase vegi' girls are doing this.  I was one of them at the beginning of the week and I might have added about 2 extra servings above my normal intake.   Mostly I just thought about vegi's all week and didn't eat them.  I'm wondering if I should pull out my juicer.  It always feels very healthy but so much work.  I do like salads so maybe I just need to get creative with preparation.  Any ideas?  It sounds like everyone is moving right along.  We haven't been blogging as often the last couple of weeks.  It sounds like we are all staying on task though.  Good job everyone.

weekend workout

Since I live nowhere near a Hare Krishna temple, I just finished my weekend workout sans bangles and belly chains -- more's the pity! Sarah, once you get those, the need for the videoblog will become even greater. Things are progressing pretty well here -- actually, I'd say quite well on the exercise front and fine but slowly with WW. I do think I notice a little more general looseness in my pants, so I'll count that as my tangible progress for the week. Good for all of us exercisers, and keep at it!

veggie tales!!

I have had some success with my veggies this week. I've tried to make salads, munched on carrots, asparagus, broccoli etc. It helps to make the effort but I think I need to make it a habit. The prep IS a pain and sometimes I'm just not in the mood for vegetables. Good for us for trying! Any weight loss this week anyone? Inches? Tighter legs, bottoms, arms???? I don't know for myself since I'm not measuring anything I just feel proud of myself for exercising so consistently for so long. Bonnie, that's good that you're feeling back to normal with your back and really too bad that you slipped in public! I think tonight is bellydancing class?? I hope we get another report. Sarah and Kelly, I heard that they have belly chains and bangles for sale and the Hare Krishna Temple in Salem. That might really add to the whole vibe. Beth, how are you hanging in there this week???????

FROM AMY

veggie tales?

So, how are the veggie-eaters coming along this week? I actually like veggies, but sometimes the prep factor can get in the way -- I've tried to be better about that this week, with some success. My exercise schedule has been a little skimpy, though I did make a trip to the gym Tuesday night in the snow when I really didn't want to leave the house, and was so impressed with myself that i may just count it double. Partly i've been a little easy on myself because last week's spill didn't hurt my ankle but did wrench my back (to answer your question, Amy, plenty of people saw, including the university president who hustled over to help me up --partly to be nice, i'm sure, but partly to make sure no lawsuit was in the offing) -- but i think i'm pretty much back to normal now, so -- elliptical, here i come!

Happy Tuesday

From Amy :
Just checking in and feeling a little proud of myself because I've done two good mornings in a row. My legs are sore today from my leg lifts yesterday so I think that's a good sign. I wonder if it could help with the cellulite? I think It might not matter if I did leg lifts all day long though as far as that's concerned - we might be a little genetically challenged in that area - Clayton girls anyway, Bonnie, you might have a better chance. I feel like I might be more in control of my eating than I used to be. I think I'm doing quite a bit better in the portion control area. Well I'm going to sign off for now but let's keep on keepin' on!! I'm proud of us!

checking in

Hello everyone.  We did some computer moving around here and I couldn't post for a while but I'm back.  It sounds like everyone is moving right along.  Bonnie - I'm glad your fall wasn't serious.  You and Amy really need to watch your step!!! Beth - I'm with you with the more vegi's this week.  I just had that thought yesterday so I was pleased to see I'm not alone in my quest. Amy - your Oprah post has inspired me as well to add some leg lifts to my goals.  I am going to do things a little different this week.  I can tell by looking at my calendar that 3 times at Curves is not going to happen.  So I am aiming for 2 Curves visits, 15 min on my elliptical on Curves days, 20 minutes on the others with the leg lifts and sit ups.  And of course my 1 belly dancing class.  Good luck everyone.  I am so proud of all of us for exercising so consistently.  It has to be making a difference at least in our health if not our waistlines.

Beth Goals

Not losing any steam girls. Weekends are always difficult for me with healthy eating, but I acomplished my goals last week with the exception of missing a few day of sit-ups due to a sore muscle in my stomach. It just feels a little strange so I"m going to give it a few days.
I'm going to do the same goals as last week, but try to up the intensity a little on the elliptical. I'm going to go with Amy on more Veggies this week. Wishing you a good, injury free week. must go to bed. Love you all, Beth

Hello girls

I'm getting ready to head down into my little exercise cave. I struggled last week a little with my 6 days goal. I'm starting more optimistically this week. My goal is 20 min. elliptical, 5 min. leg lifts, 50 crunches and my usual stretching. Bonnie - so sorry you wiped out in the lobby!!!!!!!!!! Is your ankle ok? Did anyone see you? As for solitary vs. social exercising. I think I am also a solitary exerciser. I don't really like huffing and puffing and sweating in public that much. But the motivation of social exercising is good! Well I'm off to my elliptical maybe I'll learn some more t.v. nuggets! I'll let you all know. Hope everyone gets off to a good start this week!
From: Amy
p.s. I'm going to up my veggies this week

Oprahcizing!

Well, Amy, thanks for the Gwyneth/Oprah tutorial -- all very interesting. I think I'd throw up if I exercised in an 80-degree room, and the two-hour/day pace is a bit beyond me -- but the leg lifts and the reps-rather-than-weight ideas are both very good. Ah: we can learn so much from tv! :)

All systems go here in Chicagoland. I walked four days this week, with a good gym workout yesterday. A couple of friends joined my gym, so that may boost my motivation -- though, in truth, I prefer being a solitary exerciser most of the time -- somehow I don't like to converse while working out (ironic, since I made Amy do precisely that thing this week). What preferences do you ladies have in that vein?

And, finally, a pseudo-springtime caution. After a winter of mincing around like an old lady, being paranoiacally cautious about not slipping on the ice, this past warm and rainy Wednesday found me completely wiping out in the lobby at school, because my feet were wet and the tiles were slick. I lived to tell the tale, but it hasn't been good for the old basketball injury -- so my parting thought for the day is this: danger is all around! Caution is your friend! Just a message of good cheer for your Sunday :) -- have a good week, everyone!

How are we all doing???

From Amy:
So I have not met my goal for the week unless I exercise tonight twice! I think I can push out one workout tonight but not two. Since I'm now an Oprah fan I thought I'd share what I learned on Thurs. show. Gwyneth Paltrow was on and talking about how she lost her "after baby" 20lbs. They showed her 2 hour 6 day a week workout with her personal trainer. This of course cannot be for us but here is a couple of nuggets that they share that I thought might be of interest. 1) Women should never use more than a 3 lb. arm weight unless they want to bulk up. 2) she does about 20 min. worth of leg lifts for her bottom ( so as usual Beth was already on to this) (I've decided to incorporate this into my routine - 5 min. for now) 3) She does a lot of arm stretches without weights. I tried this yesterday and decided it felt pretty good. 4) always exercise in a warm room. she said 80 degrees. I didn't this was too practical for us in the winter. She said that was the quickest way to change a body shape. Anyway, thought you girls might like these suggestions. I don't have any confidence that if I do these things I'll look like Gwyneth. Congrats to Beth and Bonnie for your weight loss!!!!! Almost makes me want to get a scale but not quite!! I hope to hear from you all soon. It seems like we've been a little slow in the blogging dept. this week. Be strong girls!!!

I'm still here

From Amy:
I've missed you guys this week! I got my priorities out of wack! Just wanted to let you know I'm still here and I will post in detail later because I have a lot to say but need to run out the door in a couple of minutes. I just did my exercises. Hope you girls are having a great day.

walking and weighing

Hello bloggercizers! Sarah, you clearly walk a lot, with that number of steps -- and thanks for the info on your pedometer, because if mine doesn't become more consistently reliable I'll probably want to get a different one. And Beth, your words are wise: persistence is definitely the big thing with this whole exercise scheme -- and congratulations on your five-pound loss! This was a happy WW day for me, since I reached the 10-pound milestone. That's really great, but it's a bit weird because I don't really feel much difference in the way my clothes fit etc. But soon, i'm sure. As for exercise: I didn't set a more concrete goal than exercising five out of the seven days this week, and so far so good: walking Monday and Tuesday (incredibly beautiful weather yesterday), and also tomorrow -- then the gym twice in the Fri-Sun span. Keep on with it, workout women -- good job all around!

so far so good.

2 days of exercising down. I think we all need to rememer that perfection with ourselves and goal is not what we are striving for. I look at it more that if we fall off the ladder we must get back on and keep doing our best. We all have things that frustrate our exercising ambitions. It feels wonderful to acomplish a goal and have some control in our lives. I've had a terrible eating day. The kids having their valentine parties at school hasn't helped. So i'm trying not to throw in the towel and tell myself tomarrow can be a better eating day. I"m really enjoyoing my exercising though. I have to say I love the push-ups, crunchies, and leg lifts better than elliptical. I always think of jane fonda when I do my floor work.

checking in

Hello everyone.  I am chugging along in exercise world.  I am having some successes and some discouragements.  I have done my 15 minute elliptical session everyday but seem to have trouble getting to Curves with Josh's daily dramas.  If everything falls into place I can still get my goal by going Thursday and Friday.  I feel discouraged to plan such a thing though because then I feel freaked out when I can't pull it off.  Anyways...I'm trying to regroup my brain so I don't get discouraged.  I'm also trying to decide if I should adjust my strategy and add more to my daily elliptical time and change my curves goal to 2 instead of 3x's a week.  As for better news, I have managed to keep my pedometer on for 2 whole days.  Yesterday I did 13,130 steps and today I am at 9850 so far.  Bonnie -Your steps are great with no formal exercise with them.  I had mine on yesterday during Curves (that I have found to be about 2000 steps) and my 15 min elliptical.    I do like wearing it though because it does make me double think things like taking a farther away parking spot because I do want to see my steps go up.  For those that are still looking for a pedometer, I do like mine.  I ordered it off Amazon.  It is an Omron.  It was on sale for about $10.  It seems to stay clipped.  It saves 7 days of steps, resets itself to 0 at midnight.  The only thing I question about it is it doesn't count steps for the first 4 seconds.  I think a lot of my movements are about 4 seconds long moving from one area to the next.    My main problem with it so far is I keep forgetting to re-attatch it if I change my clothes.  Anyways, that is the pedometer scoop.  Hope everyone's week is going well.

six weeks?

Can you believe we have been doing this going on 6 weeks! I love it! This week just a slight progression in goals.
20 min elliptical 5X
150 crunchies
25 leg lifts (new)
15-20 push-ups.
wish me luck. I did a few leg lifts the other night and think its very needed for my recovery because they were sooo difficult. I'm excited to see if it gives me more strength back. I have to say i've gone from about 40%-90% in the last five weeks as far as feeling better from my pregnancy trauma. I'm hoping to exceed my normal soon. I also lost 5lbs last week! I broke down and got a scale. I'm just going to weigh in on mondays and not get obsessed. i bought the cheapest one so if i want to through it in the garbage it isn't a huge loss. Bonnie I'm so impressed with all your steps. anything over 10,000 is considered amazing I thought. You go girls!

finally, pedometrical success!

So, for the first time since I got it, I managed to keep my pedometer on all day. The verdict: 12,347 steps. No formal exercise today, but that total makes me think it's not terribly lame to count my commuting as at least quasi-exercise. I'd be curious to hear what numbers you ladies rack up, when and if you manage to keep it on for a whole day.

another week

Hello all. Just checking in for the new week.  I am going to keep the same goals as last week.  I didn't go to Curves today but I did do my elliptical.   I have forgotten the last 2 mornings to put my pedometer on first thing.  I do like it quite a bit though.  I just need to have it on the whole day  so I can have an accurate reading.  Hope you are all having a good start to the week.

I'm laughing so hard

From Amy:
I'm laughing because you guys are really the greatest. It's not quite 60 here today but warmer and we can see some grass. I thought about going out for a walk but am still paranoid that I could slip on the slush! I did do my elliptical today and the usual weights, stretches and crunches. I feel so much better after I exercise. I bought my pedometer - it reset as you know and then McKay decided it was cool and has been wearing it ever since. I think I'll have to go buy another one. It was kind of pinching my fat anyway. I do love the concept if I could feel like it was somewhat accurate... Have really good weekend girls!!!

spring!

My chunky feelings and I are headed outside because for the first time in forever it is WARM here today -- nearly 60, just beautiful. So -- my exercise du jour will be a nice long walk. Hope you're having a lovely Utah weekend too!

you girls!

If I want to smile during the day I check the blog. Still exercising. My chunky feelings keep me motivated! I keep laughing about the video blog. The reality would be hilarious. I might just observe on that one. I'm getting anxious for spring and my double stroller, but for now I'll keep ellipticating. He have to find Barb!!! p.s. you must realize how ever so slight my indention is. I was excited and showed Dane. I could tell he pretended to notice a difference. At first he just thought I was complaining about a hernia

i am cackling....

...over Sarah's advice that we just push through our "chunky feelings" .... it's wise, of course, but mostly I am cackling about the idea that my "chunky feelings" are only feelings, and not actually supported by visual evidence! Not so, I fear, but I will fight them nonetheless. I am also chuckling over your bellydancing men in genie pants -- all the more reason for an auxiliary videoblog!

Maybe one of our goals for next week should be to report on our pedometer experiences: what kinds we have, if we like them, if we trust them, if they change us, if they control our chunky feelings, etc. Mine still comes off with some regularity so I'm not sure I ever get a great count.

Oh, and exercise: gym yesterday, pilates dvd today, plus I think a little walk, since it is at long last sunny and almost a hospitable temp outside.

I love this blog too

Hello sisters and friends.  This blog does brighten my day too.    It also seems to keep me in line. I would just like to report that I have had a few sick children problems this week that were really trying to dampen my spirits and ruin my exercise goals.    I am missing one day of my Curves goal but on those days I was faithful with 15 minutes on my elliptical and my crunches.   I have decided to not let those kind of days discourage me, when it is out of my control, and just move forward.  I know Amy and Beth have had the same deal this week.   I would like to report that our belly dancing class was successful.  It was the arms day so our arms were burning instead of our legs.  We can now do snake arms - which I have demonstrated to my whole family and I can tell that they don't think I am as good as I think I am.  But it was quite fun.  Kelly - we forgot to discuss afterwards the guy in the parachute (I mean genie)  pants and coin belt.  I wanted to hash that out a little bit.  There are actually 2 men in our class..it is WEIRD.  Anyways it sounds like everyone is moving along.  Bonnie I am a little jealous of an abdominal machine.  I don't like how it feels to do sit ups so I bet I would like that.   I'm sure an indention is soon to follow.   I really looked for mine in the mirror after Beth told us about hers and I couldn't see one.     I hope everyone pushes though any chunky feelings they might be having.  Amy - you are looking great.  Remember how I said you look fresh and glowing lately.  It's true.  Well, I would like to discuss my pedometer sometime but this is getting too long so I will save it for next time.

pressing on!

From Amy:
Can I just say again how much I'm loving this blog?!! Every time I get on I get at least a little chuckle if not a big one! Way to go Bonnie with the crunch machine! Way to go Kelly with the great week. Is this Belly dancing night???? Beth are you excercising? We must get mom back on here! I know Sarah has some illness that kept her from curves but maybe she managed crunches or belly dancing? My big achievement was I got a pedometer today. I think I might have to go back for a better one though because it reset itself when I ate dinner tonight. I'm feeling chubby tonight - is that a bad sign? Maybe I'll go downstairs for a 10 min. elliptical session. Do you think that does any good?

back at it!

Hello all -- just a quick update to report that, once I bade the last job candidate goodbye, I headed straight to the gym, where I did a good vigorous elliptical-and-weights workout. The great discovery of the day was the "abdominal crunch" machine: I'd been telling Amy that situps/crunches can make me a little sick to my stomach (pathetic, I know, but i get dizzy/motion sick very easily and they can do it to me) -- and this machine basically mimics the exercise but somehow it doesn't make me sick. So -- can my very own indentation be far behind?! Well, probably yes -- but still, it's a good small find. Hope you're feeling better, Beth, and I love the idea of the arm pedometer, Kelly -- and keep on keeping on!

hello

I have been doing great this week. I have started each day with Curves and my pedometer. When I came home from Curves on Monday I started into my deep spring cleaning. I started in the basement family room and game room. I move everything to vacuum and dust. So I should have the pedometer attached to my arm since I am doing a lot of vacuuming. I pick a different room each day and spend whatever amount of time is necessary to accomplish what I am doing. I feel really good and have been drinking my water as well.

hello!

Well, yes -- I for one am definitely looking forward to Sarah and Kelly's bellydancing class! My goal for the week has been more about eating than exercise: we have job candidates in all week, and they have to be wined and dined and entertained in the evenings, so I've been at work a lot and have had to go out to eat every night -- that's tough for the weight-watcher in me, and it also takes away my gym time. So: my goals have been portion control and more walking during the day at work (more stairs, more invented errands, etc). Those are little goals, but they're happening -- and I lost a bit more at today's WW meeting, so I'm happy with my progress there. Also happy to learn that new indentations are emerging among my nearly-six-pack-abs set of Utah friends -- perhaps we need a video portion of the blog so people can demonstrate their new physiques! ha. As for how long to commit to the blog: it helps me, and I plan to keep exercising indefinitely, plus I really get a kick out of it, so I don't have any particular endpoint in mind -- I'm in for as long as the rest of you are willing to post.

I'm Here

From Amy:
I exercised today but I do feel like I've fallen into a slight exercise depression. It's been a hard couple of days as far as getting myself downstairs to my elliptical. My strategy today was to put on my exercise clothes and keep my dirty hair until I made it down there which I did about 1:30 - yeah! I still haven't gotten my pedometer. That will be a good goal for tomorrow I hope! I think we've lost Mom. She isn't posting too regularly! I know Sarah and Kelly have belly dancing tomorrow night so that's something for us to all look forward to. Good luck everyone.
p.s. my pants really are looser around the waist but still the same tight thighs!

have no fear, Beth is still here.

Today was a success, but yesterday I had to take a sick day. We are all a little croopy around here. I plan to make up my day on Saturday. I know that Mom is having difficulty getting on the blog. She is having similar problems that Amy had. Hopefully she will return. I still haven't located my pedometer. I might need to buy another one. Sarah let us know how you like yours and how much it cost. I was thinking we should set a goal of how long we are going to commit to the blog? What do you all think? Any time line ideas? I feel like I'm constantly reminding myself that these small changes will make a difference. It is such a good habit to form. I do feel healthier and less guilt. look forward to hearing from you all!

where is everyone?

It has been a few days of slow posting.  I hope that is not because anyone has fallen off the edge into exercise depression.  I just opened my pedometer and am quite excited to see where I stand in my steps.    Is anyone else using theirs regularly?  I still need to do my elliptical today but I did do it yesterday so I am still on track.  Some days really are a lot harder than others.  How is everyone else doing?  Anyone????

Late start to the week!

Well girls for the first time in a long time I missed a day, yesterday. I'm starting the week today with the same goals as last week. I have been sucked in by life and still haven't gotten the pedometer so that's my goal for the week. Are you guys still counting steps? I'm also am excited about the abdominal excercises. Beth, that's so cool you have an indention! I haven't had one in years either! I'm happy because my foot seems to be back to "normal" so I'm going to try not to re-injure by getting too excited. Have a good and strong week girls! Thanks for being my inspiration!
From AMY

new week

Hi everyone.  I am actually going to very gently change my goals this week.  I will keep my Curves at 3x's.   Instead of 10 minutes on my elliptical 6x's a week I am going to do 10 minutes on the Curves's days and 15 on the other 3.  Also 50 crunches a day.  I know this is very minor but I thought it was worth noting.  Every little bit counts right?  I did do my duty today with curves and elliptical.  I will do my 50 crunches when I get off the computer.  It has been a LONG time since I have been regular with any kind of abdominal exercise and I am really liking how it feels.  I still don't like how it feels when I am doing them but my whole middle area just feels a little better.  I hope everyone got off to a good start to a new week.  

goals, goals, goals!

I'm actually looking forward to this weeks exercise goals. No huge changes for me.
20 min elliptical 5X a week (or 30 min walk)
150 crunches (or my new 10 min. palates dvd)
20 girl push-ups
I would like report a very small and shocking achievement. There is a visual change in my upper abs. A small indentation in the middle between the muscle. This is very shocking to me because I haven't seen this in years. I'm strengthening my inner girdle. I'm also very open to any suggestions for the title of the blog or any changes. Happy exercising girls.

I'm pro-weekend!

I'm bucking the trend with this, but for me it's much easier to exercise on the weekend -- I'm home more, it's easier to get to the gym, and there's just more time. So I celebrated that fact by exercising both days: pilates yesterday and the gym today. And because I went during the first quarter of the super bowl, I had the gym almost entirely to myself -- nice! Kudos to all of us, keeping pace with our weekly goals. And kudos to Beth for renaming the blog once again, to keep pace with our ever-evolving membership!

weekend successful

I agree that the weekend can be very tricky.  I  was able to squeeze in my elliptical today.  I would actually like to report that I was successful with my whole week goal.  With my other weeks being a little thrown off with sick children, it was very pleasant having it go smoothly.   I would also like to report that I ordered a pedometer from amazon today.  Quite excited - by Wednesday I will be on with the count.  Mom - I'm glad you have arrived to our blog world.  This whole blog  is developing quite nicely.   I am inspired by everyone's success.  I think I can tell that even my small efforts done consistently is paying off and my body is feeling stronger.

welcome mommy!

I'm so excited that our little blog is growing with such quality members. It is interesting how we all have things that make it hard for us to exercise, but this support system has given us a little boost to push through the obsticles. Bonnie I'm so proud of you with your w.w. success. keep reporting and motivating us with your achievments. I can almost report a complete week. After this I'm marching upstairs to do my last 20 of the week on the elliptical. With Dane home on the weekends it is tempting to not do my night time exercising. But I have to remind myself it is only 30 min. and 24 or Lost can wait. have a good weekend everyone! Beth

Beth, cubed

I like the fact that nearly half the members of our blog write under the pen-name "Beth" -- so maybe some clarification is indeed in order! In any case, it's nice to 'see' you again, Barb/Mom/Bloggercizer #6 -- and Gladys, too.

My report is brief but virtuous: big gym workout Thursday night (my cardio endurance is defintely improving), walking yesterday, and pilates awaits today. Amy - scary about Christopher! I'm glad everyone (except for the car) is ok. Happy weekend to all!

Welcome mom and Gladys!!!

Just wanted to officially welcome mom. Maybe you should have a pen name because to some of us you're mom and to others Barbara. How would you like to be addressed on this blog? Well I"m of to the basement to exercise. I'm just going to do my "usual". I thought I should get it done first thing because it seems harder to do it on the weekends for some reason... Have a good weekend everyone! Amy

so excited !!!

hi, this is the real old lady speaking.....I am so excited to be invited to join a group that where I can report my exercising goals and major accomplishments. right off the bat let me make things clear. I don't have arthritis, scoliosis, sciatica, old basketball injuries, ankle injuries, etc, etc. I only have old age and an interesting friend called Gladys. Gladys is my bladder, but we never call her that because it makes it seem like I have a real problem. So feel free to occasionally ask her about her, but only by her Christian name.
My goal is to walk twice a day every day that Gladys is over at the neighbors. And if the air is too bad, or if Randy doesn't want to walk...... I will do the elliptical at least once a day.
Love reading your comments...... Mom.....Barbara.....

Crazy week!

From Amy:
I'm so glad I have this blog or I don't think I would have exercised at all this week! Bonnie - as you were calling me this morning I was sitting at the side of the road with Christopher having just gotten in an accident. He is fine and thankfully it wasn't his fault but as he says "his car is trashed". This is after him struggling all week with a concussion he got in BBall last week. Pretty much it's been a really stressful week. I have exercised though! I have met my goals so far and I noticed again that my pants feel looser around my middle. Probably from the stress. I still haven't bought my pedometer but am really excited about it after all of your reports. Should I try to buy a more expensive one that stays on? What do you pros recommend? Bonnie that's really great that you've lost more weight. Is your eating feeling hard or are you having good self control? Beth I'm still impressed with all of your crunches because! I can't do more than 80 and I'm really pooped! Kelly and Sarah way to go with your goals most especially the belly dancing again. I still wish we could download a short video of it.

Wed. and Thurs. report

Just reporting that I have done my elliptical and crunches for yesterday and today.   I am preparing my muscles for my belling dancing class tonight.  Hopefully it won't be as hard feeling as last week.  Good job Bonnie on the pounds lost.  That is great.   I agree that this blog has been great.  It has really kept me on my toes when otherwise I would have slacked.  Keep up the good work girls.

Hello muffins - I feel quite powerful, inciting this pedometer revolution! It's been a good thing for me, but mine keeps falling off, and it resets itself every time that happens, so I don't think I've gotten especially accurate counts. Still, I can tell from Beth's initial number that, on the mom vs. professor front, it's no contest: my job is WAY more sedentary! So I will have to be conscious of moving more whenever possible - a new mini-goal. No exercise on my ultra-packed Wednesday, as per usual, but I did go to WW and have some success to report: I'm now up to 7.4 lbs. The words of wisdom du jour were all about setting manageable goals, which made me think once again what a good thing this blog is -- thanks for starting it, Beth!

beth

Day three accomplished! Still can't find my pedometer though.

I am not very good and posting my accomplishments. I have been to Curves 3 days this week and shoveled snow for 2 days. I like the idea of the pedometer. I used to wear one all the time. I would like to get my water intake in this week. That will be my new goal. Good luck to all. Happy exercising.

felt a little tortured tonight.

fatigue is catching up with me tonight so everything felt a little harder. we had a chili and pie party tonight at church. Luckily I didn't have time to eat very much with getting the kids there food, holding crying Clayton. Evenings aren't his best. During the chaos my pedometer fell off. Someone handed it to me later in the evening. I'm still trying to figure out how she knew it was mine, cause she said she just found it on the floor. There was only 3000 steps on it, but I had only had it on for 3 hours. I must seem like the pedometer type or something. I'm curious to put it on first thing in the morning to see how many steps I take in a day basically just in my house doing mother jobs. I should leave it on during the night too. I could start measuring the degree of bad night depending on how many steps I took during the sleeping hours. Anyway the pedometer has added some addition excitement to my very predictable life. Oh and I must clarify my sit-up accomplishments because I'm feeling like you all are thinking that I'm doing 150 sit-ups straight in a row. The only way I can do that many is because I do 1/2 exercising the lower half of my stomach, then 25 on each side and 50 doing the upper half of my stomach. I also have to lay flat on my back and take breathers in-between girls. So overall I'm pretty pathetic but getting stronger. Oh and something that is just not fair is that Dane (hubby) just got his body fat measured. Before 3 weeks ago hardly ever exercised, ate whatever he wants and has 19% body fat. After 3 weeks of push-ups and sit-ups is totally ripped. I'm so sure!!! He's getting a six pack after 3 weeks. I could do what he is doing for years and still be sitting in blubber. I'm used to it really, and even okay with it, but it's still not fair.

tromp trot, trudge...

Hello muffins -- sounds like we are now a pedometrified bunch! That's great. I had some technical difficulties with mine, but I think my average over the last couple of days has been around 5500 steps (not counting my formal exercise). So I guess to start I'll aim for 7000 steps/day, and then take it up from there. I'll be curious to hear your counts! Meanwhile, I'm just back from the gym, where I did my 30 min. on the elliptical + weights + some crunches -- man, I am a long way from being able to do 125 of those! Even 50 proved tough. Good work all around -- keep on truckin'!

I'm in.

I got a pedometer today at walmart. Sounds fun. Also got a pilates dvd for variety.

tuesday goals accomplished

Just checking in that I did Curves and my 10 minute elliptical today.  Oh wait...I'm going to do my crunches right now so I can report that....OK I just did my crunches too.  I am going to get a pedometer too.  I did that a few years ago and it was interesting to see how much I walked  a day.  Hope you are all doing well.  Kelly where are you in blog world???    Hope everyone is having a successful day.

bloggin at midnight!

from Amy:
I don't know what my problem is but I'm not very sleepy tonight!! I'm sure I will be in the am! You girls are so inspiring! I did my exercise this morning but just did 80 crunches. Do you think all of our stomachs will be flat soon? hee hee ha ha. I must say I'm pretty excited about the pedometer. I'm going to buy one tomorrow. I'm going to head off to bed now. Happy exercising!

day one!

20 min. on the elliptical felt okay. I was worried it might be too much for the ol hip. I have to say adding 25 more sit-ups was a killer. I'll stick to it though. might have to keep it at 150 for a few weeks. I felt the same way after 50 situps on the first few days, but was surprised how quickly my stomach (not visually of course) responded after the pregnancy. I feel like I have something to suck in again. Before when I would try to suck my stomach in nothing would happen. I'm inspired that you are feeling a tiny difference in your clothes girls. don't think I do yet but I'll still be patient.

week goals

Hi everyone.  I am also going to stick with my regular goal of 3x's at Curves, 6x's for 10 minutes on my elliptical and 1x belly dancing class.  My back felt better last week so I am not going to rock the boat this week by adding anything crazy.    I did try doing some situps (being inspired by Beth) and I am even more impressed than before Beth that you can do 125!  My belly was burning at 50.  It is very obvious that I need to add that to my list.  I will do 50 every night.  

As for any tangible or felt progress....Since I am not a weigher I have no clue if this has caused any weight loss.    I do have to say that my clothes feel very (with an emphasis on very) slightly looser (is that how you spell that?) around my waist.    We must keep on!   Good luck everyone.  Let's have a good week.

new week, new goal -- any takers?

hello muffins -- and congratulations to all new aunts in the group! that's very exciting.

I have two goals this week. The first is the usual: to exercise five days, with two or three of those at the gym. For the second: I bought a pedometer over the weekend and am wearing it for the first time today. They say the goal is to walk 10,000 steps a day -- so today and tomorrow i'm going to track to see what's 'normal' for me, and then I'll set a goal something beyond my normal. Does anyone want to join me in the pedometer tracking? I bought mine at Target for $9, so it's a pretty minimal investment, and probably a good way to know how much incidental exercise we get.

I don't notice any big changes yet in fitness level or clothes -- but soon! Wednesday is WW day, so I don't have any losing update -- i will let you know, though. Meanwhile, be warm and fit and well!

New Week

Good reminder Beth for us to focus! My goal this week is 6 days of exercise. I'm going to try doing more time on my elliptical but no more resistance. Hopefully I can do this without any injuries! This week I'm going to try to THINK about what I'm eating and whether I'm really hungry or not. My clothes are fitting a little different. My waist and hips seem a little smaller but I think my thighs are definately NOT! What about you Beth? Bonnie, did you lose weight last week? Well Sarah just called so I'm off.

goal time!

Well I'm gearing up for a new week of fitness after a weekend of no exercise and eating. I sent Dane off for week 4 away from the family. Cried, ate a candy bar, and ready to set new goals.
Nothing to new this week:
20 min. elliptical or 30 min. walk
150 abdominal reps.
15 push-ups.
all 5x this week.
Lets go girls. Lets not lose any steam this week.
I would like to hear if anyone is noticing any changes in how they feel, or how their clothes feel after just a few weeks.

New member?

from Amy:
I almost forgot to blog because of the odd day I've had. Since we had a birth in the family today I feel proud to say I exercised at all!! Welcome little Engler! I did a whole 9 min. on the elliptical (not quite as impressive as Bonnie's 30), 80 crunches (thanks to Beth's motivation) and my usual arm weights and stretches. This day seems so long that it feel like it was yesterday! I have to say I'm enjoying watching Oprah while I exercise! I really haven't watched her for at least 10 years. I have a lot of catching up to do.
So I'm excited about the new member! Who could it be? Any guesses from the other authors? Be strong and keep exercising!!!!

mission accomplished!

for my friday routine I walked/ran not by choice instead of elliptical. The running part was out of my comfort zone right now. I had to run after a boy I was watching that wasn't yielding while riding his bike. I must clarify that I'm not actually doing sit-ups but crunches and bicycling. 125 real sit-ups a day would be impressive. I actually feel the bicycle style ab exercise is very hard and more effective than a crunchy. But I would love company in the abs routine. Looking forward to next week dears. And excited to introduce a very SPECIAL new member of our exclusive club!!!

gymboree

Hello, muffins! Thanks for the bellydance updates, Kelly and Sarah -- my gym has started offering those classes to, so apparently b.d. is becoming quite the phenomenon. And Amy, I like your suggestion that K & S provide some video of their class -- that is cruel and unusual but also very appealing! And, finally, Beth: I am both impressed and inspired by your situp scheme; that's an exercise I hate but could definitely use, so I'm going to try to incorporate 25/day for starters.

I'm just back from the gym (Saturday): 30 minutes on the elliptical plus some weights, including a new scheme I have to do some focused rehab on my ankle with a couple of different calf machines. So I'm happy about that, but in the interests of full disclosure must confess that I did not make it to the gym yesterday -- I opted for mental rather than physical health by taking in "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" with a friend. For what it's worth, I'd recommend it: A-/B+.

I barley survived belly dancing. Amy you should join us next week. I have been at Curves every day this week except Monday. I have also started back up again with the elliptical and I do that for 10 min. I can't wait until the air cleans up so I can walk outside again. I am sure my partner in walking is not looking forward to the air cleaning up since I will be dragging her out with me.

Up and at 'em this morning

From Amy:
So I'm off to a better start today. I just got off my elliptical (7 min. resistance 1!). Pretty whimpy but I also did stretches, weights and situps. I'm sitting here icing my ankle just to play it safe. Beth I'm so impressed with your amount of situps - that's a lot. Sarah- I really wish you could have taken some good video of your b.dancing class - that would have been an inspiration to all of us. Maybe I really will join you next week!! Everyone have a good day and be strong!

thursday report

I did my elliptical today and all is well. Feeling a big difference in my core just from 125 situps a day.I'm excited to keep strengthening in that area. I'm sorry about your foot amy maybe your need to reevaluate your goals so you don't get discouraged. You can join me in my situps and pushups? I really wish I could do the belly dancing with sarah and kelly it sounds so different and fun. Welcome Kelly!!!

shaky wobbly legs

Reporting from the very tired land of the belly dancers.   That is such good exercise.  I think my back held up.  My legs feel so weak right now. It really is a fun way to exercise.   Hopefully Kelly will give us a report.  She was the star of the class.  Wiggling and a shaking!!!   I'm afraid I didn't do my 10 minutes on the elliptical today.  It was a busy day and I felt so tired the whole time so I didn't squeeze it in.  Good job Bonnie and Beth on your outside walks.  That sounds good for the winter mental state.  Don't get discouraged Amy...your foot will return to its previous state.  Just do what you can do.  I'm going to go take an epson salt bath.  

Winter Blues

From Amy:
This isn't exactly an inspirational post...I didn't do any exercise today! My foot is hurting occasionally and I'm thinking I might head back to the P.T. so see what's up. My day just got away from me. It seems like all of my kids (even the "biggest one") had lots of needs today so I guess that's my excuse. Good for you Bonnie and Beth for walking outside. Sarah, Kelly and I wouldn't dare - the air is sooooo bad!!! So I will commit to a better day tomorrow! I am also very excited for the bellydance report Sarah!!

Winter walking

It broke 30 degrees here today, so, inspired by Beth's recent walking, I did some myself. I know I said I'd go to the gym, but it was great to be outside -- and, since tomorrow it's back to the deep freeze here, I'll be back at the gym soon enough. Good work all -- and, Sarah, i'm still waiting for the bellydance report!

walked today again. love the fresh air. getting ready to do my 11:00pm push-ups and sit-ups. I even had to take pepto cause my stomach is gross tonight. dedication! Thanks for the advice and inspiration. still pondering my eating goals. Bonnie keep us posted on your W.W. progess. Congrats on 5lbs. That is wonderful.

Wow - twice in one day!

From Amy:
I just had to get back on because I was in such a self imposed hurry this morning. I did my exercise for the day. I don't think I even broke a sweat because my body is stronger than my ankle. I think I really may have to consider bellydancing, pilates or yoga. Bonnie - I think maybe you can count the exertion of being an English Professor as exercise on the days that you can't make it to the gym. J.K. that probably isn't the kind of motivational speaking you need. Seriously though - your hike to the train etc. sounds like serious exercise to me!!! Beth - don't give up!!!!!! It's hard when you're in your stressful world of babies to keep perspective. I just ate some sugar I shouldn't have and I think it's because I really skimped on lunch and it was handy. I need to concentrate on keeping myself nourished enough in the afternoon that I don't want to snack. Everyone BE STRONG!! P.S. Congrats Bonnie on your 5 lbs.

exercise, eating, and patience - o my!

Hello muffins! Radio silence from Chicago the last couple of days because I haven't squeezed in any exercise; I plan gym trips Thursday and Friday to stay on track with that goal, though. And, Amy: I think we should exploit our 40-and-fabulous status to reclaim stretching as exercise -- you know they say it's important as you age!

Re: Beth's question about eating -- maybe the core food thing is too restrictive, and you should make room to factor in at least a few things you actually want/crave? That way if you have the occasional m&m or cookie, it's planned into your approach and you don't feel like a loser for treating yourself? Just a thought. I'm certainly sympathetic to the want-results-fast thing -- I lost 5 lbs during my first weight watcher week and then zero this week, which is annoying since i was equally dedicated -- but eventually all of this good-for-the-body stuff, like exercise and moving more and eating healthily, will pay off. So: here's to persistence, muffins!

needing some eating support!

This blog has been really helped me to want to exercise, but I'm already starting to fall off the wagon with eating healthy. Why can't I do this? I do so many hard things throughout the day and exercise self control in many areas, but why can't I have self control with eating? I know I need to do this to achieve any real visual change which I'm needing since the birth. Maybe it's too soon? But I really wanted to do it now! Should I recommit for tomarrow or try a different approach? This is what i'm asking myself. Any words of wisdom muffins? maybe i'll go look at some chunky faced pictures of myself to get modivated.

I'm still here!!

From Amy:
I fell out of the blog world for a few days but I'm back. Welcome Kelly!!! I think I ignored the blog world because I had an ankle that was hurting and I was not exercising. I have revamped my plan a little. I am going to wear my ankle brace, stretch before and not do any extra resistance on my elliptical. I obviously should have been doing this all along! I am going to sign off and go do my "little" workout right now. You are all an inspiration to me!!!! Thanks for being my blogging sisters!

Yes did it too. Push-ups sure are hard these days. I also walked instead of elliptical. Was a nice brisk day outside. Amy are you still having problems?

Just reporting that I was able to do my 10 minutes on the elliptical today with a few leg and arm toners.    That sure does sound wimpy when that is all I do in one day.    My back is still not back to where it was before my wild day last week so I'm going slow and steady.   I'm hoping for a good session at Curves in the morning.   Amy....where are you in the blog world?   We haven't had an official report for awhile.  Sounds like the rest of you are doing well.  

Bloggercizers! Muffins!

Soon we'll have more nicknames than inches -- won't that be inspiring? Welcome, Kelly. Good news from the land of exercise today: I made it to the gym, and did 25 minutes on the elliptical and some weights. One of my goals for the week will be to get back to the gym at least twice more -- I can do the cardio stuff at home/on my own, but I'm not so good about doing weights apart from the gym. Love the bellydance class, Sarah! I had a student who got way into belly dancing a few years ago, and she became just about the most fit, taut, toned person I know -you'll have to report.

Welcome Kelly and ready for a new week

Hi Kelly...welcome to the blog.  Everyone, this is my friend and Curves workout partner that has joined us.  I've never introduced people via blog before - I guess that is how you do it.  

I am prepping myself for a new week.   Hoping for no sick children and no back pain to slow me down this week.  I did do my 10 minutes on my elliptical today.   I will have my same goal this week of 10 minutes/ 6x's for my elliptical and 3 times at Curves.  Kelly and I will also be starting our belly dancing class this Thursday so that is more good exercise.   I wish you all luck.  This is our 3rd week of  blogercising (do you like that word???) and I have definately exercised more with the blog than I would have without it.   We are doing it!

Thanks for the invite. I am starting out a failure...I did not go to Curves today. I went shopping instead.

By small and simple things great things will come to pass!

week 3 goals for Beth

Okay, I think the goal setting part is very important for me because I'm already feeling a little less modivated today. So I'm going to continue my 15min 5X's a week on the elliptical , 125 situps, 10 girls push-ups. I'm also going to eat core foods again m-f. Common girls. Lets keep moving.

Good job, muffins! I'll bet the blog will become even more useful once we start getting tempted to slack off, but it's plenty useful now: I cleaned off my elliptical and did 25 minutes before leaving for Michigan, in no small part so i could tell the sistahs i did it! Happy weekend to all.

beth

This will be short. I DID IT. SO HAPPY 2 WEEKS DOWN. I just wish I could see a difference in my body. Patience right?

Feeling better

Well girls, my back is feeling a little better today so I think I will be alright.  I did do my 10 minutes on the elliptical.  I'm afraid with sick children and my back flare-up my Curves goal is falling short this week.  I am not going to let it discourage me.  In the past, these type of frustrations have made me feel like it is not worth it to even try but with all the support I am feeling quite hopeful and determined to make it work.  I bet next week will be better.  It sounds like everyone is doing well.    I am very proud of all of us.  I hope everyone's ailments are on the mend.  Good luck Bonnie on your journey.  It sounds like yesterday was quite the adventure.  I agree with Beth, that was a 2 for 1.    Amy and Beth - I will see you on Sunday and I expect to see some new bulging muscles.

daily duty done

My dear muffins, greetings from the deep freeze! I'm recovered from yesterday's trek through the tundra, so I did my pilates dvd and some weights at home today. Tomorrow I re-try the Michigan trip, so the weekend may be exercise-free ... but since Beth said I should count yesterday's misadventure as double, I'm set. :)

Beth, I really like the whole visualization thing you mentioned the other day. I think having a concrete goal/image like that is really helpful -- I definitely did it after my ankle surgery and during the physical therapy that ensued this summer and fall, and I think having those images really adds something beyond just mechanically doing the work. Great idea!

Hope the aches and pains are diminishing and that everyone has a good weekend!

This is so good for me!!

From Amy:
I'm so glad I checked in. It's late enough (10:45) that I almost didn't. I was laughing so hard at everyone's comments I almost wet my pants. Bonnie - that sounds like an exhausting day!!!! I shouldn't have been laughing so hard when I read about it - you all know I mean well when I laugh at someone else's troubles!! Beth -still so impressive that you're eating well and exercising with all that you have to work with right now. Sarah- I was laughing pretty hard at your post too! Of course we're not old. I did my quota today - elliptical, hand weights and stretching. My ankle is still sore so I took it easy on the ell. but did the same amount of time. Gotta get to my bed. I'm so proud of all of you!!!

Beth

Another day down. I hope everyone is feeling better soon. Bonnie that is dreadful that you waited so long and walked so far. That should count as double. I wish I was a better designer for our blog. My knowledge is very limited. I spent a long time trying to get the words off the picture. We need to invite someone who know how to do all that stuff. But it's not that important. I hear we might be getting a new friend soon!

hey muffins

Well, my Utah friends, today I report my commuting exercise, with the added weight-workout of dragging a suitcase through the snow, up and over and around drifts -- I was supposed to take the train to Michigan to spend the weekend with a friend, but it is soooo cold here (10 below right now, real temperature) that signals aren't working and trains weren't running (though they didn't tell us this til we'd sat there for FOUR HOURS). So: more dragging of suitcase through the snow and more scaling of drifts just to be right back where I started!

Sorry to hear about the back (Sarah), the sciatica (Beth), and the ankle (Amy) -- I am noticing that after all the suitcase-dragging, my old basketball injury in my lower back is acting up a bit -- so I too can join the old-lady club! But at least we're not yet talking about arthritis, or total joint replacement, or any other wonders of aging -- that's how we can tell that, as Sarah says, we're in fact in our prime.

Beth, about your ww question: it appears that what they now call "filling foods" are essentially the core foods of old: fruits, veggies, whole grains, lean protein. So, they want you to count points, and they suggest that a good percentage of your points should come from the 'filling food' category. But really of course it's all kind of the same: eat healthy food and not too much of it!

OK ladies: good for you for marching on! And Beth, i see you've done some subtle redesign of the blog - nice!

Bonnie

that will keep me chuckling all day

I am really enjoying the 'muffin tops can exercise thing'....I was really needing a good laugh.  I am glad I checked in.  I did make it to curves this morning but only did 2 laps around instead of 3.  My back is still hurting so I really took it easy.  I'm not even sure it did any good to go but I thought it was better than nothing.  I am probably going to try my elliptical  today as well but do it very slowly.  

Beth - my friend Kelly would like to join us.  How does that work.  Does she have to get an official invite e-mail?

Keep up the good work girls.  We can stay strong through these setbacks.  It does kind of feel like our bodies are reacting like old ladies but that is all nonsense.  We are young and spry ...in the prime of our lives....right?

poor sarah

I don't want to be repetitive but have been limping today with my sciatica. It's like were all in our 70's or something. So I did my 15 min., but had to tone it down. My sit-ups felt good, and my eating went well. I discovered a yummy snack. Wheat puffs no milk with a little cinnamon and a touch of splenda or sugar. pretty much eating sweet air but helped my never-ending sweet tooth.
Bonnie, I would like to know how you like the momentum vs. flex. And just if you can touch on how "filling foods" fits into the points. For now I'm going to just keep eating core foods which is feeling really good. I'm not sure if I can go back to counting points for now anyway.
I did something interesting tonight when I was on the elliptical to pass the time. I closed my eyes and visualized strong firm legs and a flat stomach etc. and pretended that body already existed on me. This might sound really strange, but it felt healthy and almost healing in a way. I think or know that during the day I'm thinking too many negative thoughts about my body image. It just made me feel different in a good way. Sistas you should try it sometime. Oh and I thought of the best name if we do ever change the name of the blog. How bout muffintopscanexercise.blogspot.com. maybe thats too negative, but cute huh? Love ya'll. Beth
Sarah take it easy sorry your back went out.

OK so this is twice today!!!!

From Amy:
So girls you pretty much easily talked me out of the tape measure idea which is just fine since I wasn't too attached to anyway. I accomplished my goal today - but I too have some pain! I somehow over did with my resistance yesterday on my elliptical. I might have to take the day off tomorrow. This has to be so short because I still have kids awake but just wanted to check in. I absolutely love reading what you "sistahs" have to say - I chuckle the whole time. Good luck tomorrow.

A slight voice of warning...

My enthusiasm has found me sitting here with a heavy dose of ibuprphan in my system and a bag of frozen popcorn kernals on my low back .  (which by the way have found is the best replacement for ice - it's so comfortable.)  I think with changing the slant of my elliptical and increasing to 20 minutes was a bit much for my post car accident injury site.  I was getting so excited with all the possibilities that I over did it.  Amy also said her ankle hurt a bit so I think we need to pace ourselves!!  I did do my 10 min. elliptical goal today before my back bursted out in pain but I'm not sure I will make it tomorrow.

As for the tape measuring....I think if it works for you do it but I kind of agree with Bonnie that it would not be good for my mental health.    No scales or measures for me...I will just use how I feel and how my clothes fit.  Otherwise I get too  attached to a number.    Well good luck to everyone...don't go too wild.   

sistah-friends!

Well, I too have been chuckling about renaming the blog 'sistersinchristcanexercise' -- not sure why that tickles me so much, but it does. Suffice it to say i feel plenty welcomed and there's no need to change the name on my account; we can just think of it in the "sistah-friend" way.

For Beth: the thing I learned when I rejoined WW last week is that they've done away with Flex vs. Core, and now they just have one plan, called "Momentum." It looks to me like this new plan is essentially the flex plan, with a little extra attention given to what they call 'filling foods' -- essentially the core foods from the old plan. I never did do core -- my problem isn't so much eating junk as it is portion size, so Flex with its focus on weighing and measuring usually works better for me. That's not to say that, a la Sarah, I don't enjoy a peanut m&m once in a while -- but, you know, peanuts, protein, 'filling food' -- one can easily justify! But anyway: good for you for doing it on your own -- and doing it when you are living the sleep-deprived life of the new mother -- that is impressive!

For Amy: I respect your right to do the tape measure, but I'm not going there anytime soon! I'm happy to register changes in the way my clothes fit (not that this has happened yet), but for me there's something demoralizing about the tape measure. Plus it has shades of Toni Zarr, and that can't be entirely good.

On to exercise. My goal is to exercise five days/week, and I'm realizing that Wednesday may have to be one of my off days: I work 9-6 and then go to rehearsal from 7-10, and, since I simply will never be one of those "get-up-at-5:00a.m.-and-hit-the-gym" people, there's not much space in there. In better weather i could go for a walk downtown during the day, but in our current constant-blizzard state, Wednesday = day off. So, i will check in with reports of virtue tomorrow!