Bikini Countdown

[Jkrohn]

I would have done the same thing at my childs tea party (If I had kids that is) Sometimes you just have to go for it. But you did Good!! Hats of to you!

OH yeah and rub it in! 85 & sunny. You poop head. OK i really don;t mean that. But it really is quite nice today. FINALLY. THe sun is shinning and it's 45. Oh my I just read that and oh how sad I'm happy about 45 degree weather. Oh I must be sick!


Take Care and Have a Grrrrrrreat Weekend

Messy

[goingfor60]

So this bright idea about getting together may not have worked right now. But I am going to Vegas for my birthday in June. So Libby I will still be by the pool and fending off the men if you would like to join me or just to say hey. I am going with 3 other men and being the only female I dont think they will be hangin around me whilst trying to pick up their own babes.

I noticed the slump around here also... Its been just luke warm and I am use to crowded and taking 20 minutes to read the posts before I can get a word in. Well we all have our struggles and sometimes life does get in the way so I look at it this way. If someone has fallen off the wagon... they'll be back for our support. If life has gotten in the way... they'll be back when it settles down. If someone has quit... well we still wish them luck on their journey.

Messy that is sooooo great about the 18's You Go ya little hottie. I remember the days of being so despatate for a zip up that I even grabbed some pliers because the zipper had worn the skin off my fingers.

Well ladies I am off to my cake decorating class - have a wonderful mothers day to all of my favorite mom's.

Shannon :wave:

[Libbyfcr]

Shannon..... I hope you found your way back on track. Hows it going for you? You sound happier in your last two posts.

That thing about the zipper..... OMG..... I thought I was the only one. hmm.

I haven't been here much. I have been working like mad. Top that off with kids and my work that I do from home....AND trying to clean house..... eewww..... poor house...... poor husband too.

I have had a few changes in the type of things I eat because of my new job. We have a cafeteria at work. I am still loosing weight at the same rate so I don't think it is something to worry about. I know if I see results that I don't like then I will revert to what I know works for me. (Meaning.... pack my own!)

Take care babes!
Libby :wave:

[slimchance]

Shannon...OMG...too funny!! Memories coming back to me...lying on the bed with the coat hanger trying to get the zipper in my jeans up!! :p I suppose I could still do that if I dug far enough into my closet to find some old jeans. Now that I'm starting to fit back into my regular clothes it's not such a problem!

Well, I think today is going to be the day...I am going to put on my bikini (inside, alone, behind locked doors, closed blinds, with the lights off! :p ). We'll see how it goes from there. Maybe it will be motivational? Hopefully not too depressing...no, I think I'll be fine. At least I'll be able to say that I've come a long way so far, and things could be much worse for me.

I have been really busy lately and have been doing more lurking than anything. I have started my summer classes and they are very condensed. Each day of class is the same as a week's worth of work. It's keeping me out of trouble that is for sure!

LCing is going well, aside for the pizza (1 slice) and beer (more than 1 :eek: ) on the weekend, but I figure one indulgence will not kill me as long as it doesn't send me on a downward spiral to my old ways. I was sluggish the next day and having a cold didn't help either, so I guess I paid for it.

I hope you're all doing well, I'll check in again soon!

KC :wave:

[agonycat]

Wow it's been 13 days since anyone posted here! Where are you gals hiding at? You all head to the beach already?

I want to appologize for being away for so long. I had some personal issues to deal with.

Hubby and I are heading to Scarborough Faire today. It should be fun. I bought a new outfit for the occassion. And get this, it was a size 8/10! I haven't lost any more weight (damn scale) but I found a little summer dress in my closet I haven't worn in geez 8 years because I couldn't get it buttoned over my rib cage (like a 4 inch gap). Well I can now get it buttoned all the way up, but there is a little gapping hole where it goes over the bustline. So who knows...I may be able to wear it again in another month or so.

I am hanging in here. Just noticed no one has been posting here anymore and wondering where in the heck all of you ran off to :)

[Libbyfcr]

I think the summer weather takes us all out of our houses and into our yards, our parks, our neighborhoods and into the great out doors.

We are camping, hiking, biking, and walking..... we are all doing these wonderful things outside and nobody wants to waste daylight sitting on their "getting skinny" butts and watch the day go by.

I have been busy..... kids, work, yard, kids and more yard. Birthdays and obligations. yadda yadda yadda

Okay....back to the swimwear thing. I now feel comfortable wearing my one piece swimsuits. I weigh less than I did the last time I wore a two piece but I am unsure of my confidence in wearing it right now.

I want to start something we did once before.... I called it "What I like about myself" and we all listed three things we liked about ourselves. Mine may have changed... I dunno, I am not going back all those pages to look.

I like........... My legs. OMG... FINALLY!! My legs have never been my selling point and now I like them. That is huge for me. They will never be perfect but they are mine and I think they are kinda... gulp.... pretty.

I like.... my collarbones. I remember this from before. I think my neck and my collarbones are pretty now.

I like..... my butt.... eeeeww... never thought I would say that. But I kid you not... when I see it in the mirror it surprises me. It hasn't settled in that it belongs to me.

Anyone else wana give it a whirl? What do you like?

Libby :wave:

[slimchance]

Hi all! :wave:

I was starting to wonder what had happened to this thread! :confused:

The nice weather has finally arrived around here...well, nice enough for short sleeves anyways! I still have a month or so before bathing suit weather really hits, so I'm going to focus on really trying to tone up over the next few weeks. I should be able to produce some results by then!! :)

3 things that I like about me....hmmm...

1. my collarbones are slowly resurfacing.

2. my face is slimming down (1 chin rather than 2 :D and some cheekbones)

3. my fingernails are finally growing nicely again.

Congrats on everyone else's successes...and 8/10 is awesome and what I wouldn't do for a great set of legs!! Way to go!!

KC :)

[agonycat]

Yay! Someone else still reads this ;)

Well I have to say I was totally unprepared for 7 and 1/2 hours of walking on Sunday. Monday morning my calves and leg muscles were so sore I could hardly walk. I still feel those puppies today. Wow it is amazing even with workouts how wimpy you feel when you over due something. Nonetheless we had a blast at the Faire.

3 things I like about myself?

ummmmm
1) I have been smoke free since June 2000
2) I have been alcohol free since Jan 2001
3) I have lost 48 pounds since April 2001

2 years for a total lifestyle change and I didn't kill anyone in the process :lol:

[Jkrohn]

Smoke free, alcohol free, and lighter you must feel wonderful!!! My hat (if I were wearing one) goes off to you!

Glad to see some of us are still around. I'm hear but yes the weather is finally nice and I'll be damned if I am going to spend the days indoors at my computer.

Still holding steady at 238! Darn it. Have been ther for I dunno 5+ weeks now. But I'm not giving up! Bikini weather is getting closer all the time.............

3 things I like about me.......... well that's a tough one

1. my figure/shape. I have always had an hourglass shape. A big one mind you. But my friends have always commented on my small waist.

2. my eyes. My hubby says they have a sparkle in them.

3. my smile. i use it often. My nickname is sunshine as I have been told I bring sunshine smiles where ever I go.

That about covers it. Glad to hear from felloe bikini babes again....


Messy

[Libbyfcr]

It was 107 on my patio today before I went to work. Summer is here babes and I hope all is well with you and yours!!!

agonycat...... you have fantastic things on your list!! Congratulations for all of your wonderful accomplishments. I truly wish you the very best continued successes on your journey to health and wellbeing!

You are a fine example for us to follow!


:cool: Libby

[lastchance]

I think I ought to have a go at this.

And I'm going to make it 3 physical things - cos that is more difficult for me.

1 My bust and narrow torso. I need a good bra though as I have a HH cup size but a narrow back. This also means I have a fairly narrow waist. Without the good bra I have a very large waist!

2 My nails when I grow them. They are a nice shape and look good

3 Oooh, difficult. I like my hair when it goes right. It is dark and curly and when it was long it was sensational for about 30 minutes after I washed it. Then it looked like an old witch. So now it is shorter and I am trying to find a middle-way where it looks good for more of the time.

That's it for me.

Are you guys still meeting in Vegas?

Sara

[goingfor60]

Well Hi Ya'll I've been working in texas trying to save a production center from closing. I just got home today and am dreding going to the scale. Lets say texas has a lot of good food to offer because I ate all of it.

I am back to the norm as of tomorrow and I have to say being in front of my computer is getting harder to do. I enjoy my free moments and have been outside as much as I could. Lets keep our fingers crossed that I dont have to go back to texas for the next 30 days they are requesting.

What did I learn from being off the wagon for so long...hmm convenience kills. I ate terrible stuff because it was easy and I chose to do so.

Anyways ladies - I am hopefully back!

Shannon

[agonycat]

Aw come on Sharon....I live in Texas ;) The food isn't that hard to get around, you just need to know what places to stay out of :D

Welcome back btw. I went out and laid in the sun today. 30 mins on each side. (I am VERY fair skinned and I did not want to sunburn too badly). I was out last Sunday doing the Scarborough Faire thing and even with sunblock 30 my shoulders got crispy. They have already started peeling :(

So I figure I will go out again tomorrow for a 30 min each side pre tan thing. I am way white at the moment. My bare legs would blind you in full sun *laugh*

My hubby and I are thinking about joining the SCA. Anyone a member?

[KarenB]

http://www.sca.org


There's the link to the main organization's homepage.


http://rockwall.hypermart.net

There's the link to the chapter to which I belong (as the newcomer officer, called the Chatelaine).

I hear great things about the fair Kingdom of Ansteorra, in which you and your hubby reside! Feel free to PM me if you'd like to chat more. I'm always up for SCA talk! :D

[Libbyfcr]

What is the SCA?

I even snuck a peak at their web site and I am either too tired or plain old dumb............... Give me a clue? Or a whole explaination. LOL

Libby

[agonycat]

The Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA) is an international organization dedicated to researching and re-creating pre-17th-century European history. All persons interested in such study are invited to use these pages to obtain information about the SCA.

In layman/laywoman terms: It is a group of people that dress up and recreate Medevil times. They are crafters of the old world, doing leather working, glass blowing, tailoring, pottery, wood carving, they have archery competitions, combat melee and so much more. Storytelling, singing, dancing etc ;)

They do weekend campouts several times a year. All in all a fun group of people to be around if you get "in to" medevil history and recreating it. :) Have you ever been to a renaissance fair? Most of the people that dress up in costumes that aren't working the fair usually are members of the SCA or another organization :)

Karen that is fantastic! I will probably bug you to death :lol: I was contacted by several members in our local already and we plan on going out to meet some of them today during their practice combat training. :)

[KarenB]

It's great fun sitting with the other noncombatants, watching the fighters whack on each other with duct-taped rattan! :D

I say noncombatants, because it's not *always* men doing the whacking--women are equally able and allowed to participate in the martial arts. So, if you're the kind who enjoys physical aggression, and you don't mind getting bruises (because you *will* even through your armor!), you could get out there and do some whacking of your own, Agonycat! (Not on Day One, of course, but later..... :devil: )

There's a woman in the Chicago area who goes by the name Fern de la Foret, who has been fighting for umpty-ump years and has won tournaments on her own ability. She bears the titles Countess (because she's been Queen once--although I don't know if *she* won that title by right of arms, or if she was someone else's Queen of Love and Beauty, meaning a fellow fought in the tourney "for" her--she was his inspiration, in other words) and Sir (because she's been knighted, inducted into the Order of Chivalry--and nearly every woman who receives that honor chooses to be called "Sir" rather than "Dame" because of the modern connotations of the latter), and we all are so used to seeing her in fighting garb that when she shows up in one of her strikingly beautiful Burgundian gowns, it takes us a little bit to realize we're looking at "Sir Fern!" :lol:

See, you got me going already this morning.... doesn't take much, does it? :D

Bug away, Agonycat, I'll do what I can--but if you're already in good contact with your local group, they'll likely be of more help to you, as the Kingdom rules vary from region to region. (What's "legal" in Ansteorra might not be in the Midrealm, and vice versa--especially concerning the arts martial.) I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

[Tama]

Hello ladies! It is good to be back! I have missed this forum and all you babes out there! I just had to share my latest adventure in bathing suits!

Swimming lessons for the kiddies began one week ago - not a moment too soon with the temperature reaching 111 last week! I considered wearing my sweat pants and t-shirt and hanging out in the shade as I watched the wee ones swim for an hour. Then I thought, "I just bought this beautiful swim suit and I'm not even going to wear it!" So I put it on, loaded up the rugrats and headed to the pool where I emerged, clad in my bright orange tankini - gulp!- in a public place! :eek: My oh my, I honestly thought those days were behind me. But I did it! I didn't have much of a tan, to speak of, but now I am sporting some nice color! A few of the other mom's said they thought I was "brave", which was probably their way of saying "I wouldn't be caught dead looking like that in a swimsuit in public!", but I don't care. I watched them sweat and I splashed in the baby pool with my one year-old. It was fun! I am actually feeling like a "girl" again! I like it alot!!

So, now that I have spilled my guts, has anyone else ventured forth from the dressing room?? Do tell, ladies!
Tama

[Libbyfcr]

I do believe that Tama wins the Blue Ribbon for being the FIRST bikini babe to really get out there and strut your stuff. You GO Girl!! Way to be... brave, confident, and having fun with the kids!! That's what it is all about isn't it?

I am happy for you. AND.. I want to be next! HA...... that'll keep me motivated!

:D Libby

[Jkrohn]

OK I ventured out in public not into water yet but public none the less. Was shopping for a new suit as the ones I have now are WAY to big. :) Remember the jumping in and the bottoms falling off incident??? Anyway was out shopping this past weekend and found a hawian print hot orange & black tankini. Slipped it on and OMG it fit! And it fit good! I was so excited I ran out of the dressing room to find my friend. Yep just ran on out not stopping to look who might be out there. Didn't even think about it until I was halfway through the department store. :eek: So, there I was in all my glory. Chub giggling at everyone. But that's OK as a total stranger who saw me stopped and said "that's a really great suit, fits you great, wish I had the bod to fit in a 2 pice" Me have a bod for a 2 pice??? Holy cow never ever has someone accused me of having "a bod for a 2 piece" yippeee! Well needless to say I walked out of the store on could 9. Didn't buy the suit though. Couldn't stomach the $$ to think I won't be able to fit in it in a couple more weeks. (Hoping to be smaller) Weather isn't cooperating with summer yet so I still have time.

Well I am waiting to hear the rest of our bathing suit stories!!!! Ladies where are ya??????

Take care

Messy

[_wilow]

:rolleyes: I did it but I don't know how confident you'd say I was. I put my black two peice on and went swimming with my 2 year old at my friends house on the river. Not a soul around except us and my husband. Not ready for the beach yet. Yes I'm chicken and I admit it. I have a little further to go before I can feel great about it (toning my inner thighs and abs :confused: ) but I have come a long way. :wave:
Lisa

[Tama]

Good job, babes! I am proud of all of us! It is one thing to make a new year's resolution and say, "I want to get into a suit this year and go out in public!" But it is quite another to actually do it! Here's to sticking to a healthy eating plan and actually having the guts to show off what we have lost!!

Way to go!
Tama

[_wilow]

Well, I had a great moment today, I think my stall has broken. I finally hit 149.. It has been 21 years since I've seen that number so needless to say that feels good. I had been having a hard time staying on the wol because of a lot of "special occassions and just got tired of hovering. So I put 14 marks on my board on my kitchen and marked one off everyday I stayed on the induction again. I'm on day 10 and it's WORKING. YEAH. Thought I'd share the good news. Don't give up! Lisa

[slimchance]

Yay lisa!! :cheer: :cheer: :cheer:

That is awesome!!! Keep up the great work!!

KC :wave:

[KarenB]

I did it.

I went to our local beach with Kelley, her godmother, and her GM's two boys (14 and 12), and while I wasn't in the VS two-piece, or even the VS maillot, I *was* in a thin-strapped, no-tummy-control one-piece with a plain shelf-bra instead of those hard foam ballistic-nose-cone things.

And I felt GOOD. Being in a size 12-14 and being tan and knowing that I have come "this far" made me feel GOOD. None of the old "I know I look like a beached whale" feelings.

I've had a very rough month. I've been off plan more than on. I haven't given 100% to anything, not even my BFL. I've backslid some--the pants-o-meter tells me that. (Not so far that I can't wear the 12s, but they're not as comfy as they had been.) I accepted this invitation to the beach today to do something *nice* for myself and Kelley that didn't involve her father (who, while he loves her dearly and would do anything for her, or so he says, drives *me* freaking insane within a day). See, the last things we did that were *nice* were done either with his help or his presence--and I've had enough of both those things to last me for a while. (Yes, I still feel that *she* needs him nearer to herself, for *her* good. I'm pretty happy with him half a continent away. But I'm not the one who needs him.) I realize as I'm typing this--I realized it before, but it's coming home again now--that he has been at the root of my problems for the last month. I really do not *want* his attentions. I have no clue what I was thinking when I became involved with him in the first place. I told Kelley's godmother that today, in fact. (We've been best friends for years; she was also my birthing coach when I had Kelley, and got to watch the c-section, and held her *long* before I did. :D ) So, knowing how he feels about me--he made it clear he would *love* to be in a relationship with me, he finds me incredibly attractive and resilient and blah blah blah blah--I went into something of a tailspin, because I feel *nothing* for him. It's as if I was trying to become *unattractive* to him. Can't be done--he was drawn to me when I was 250 lbs. I don't think I could do *anything* to drive him away.

Anyway, I'm rambling. Just had to get all this outta my system, ladies... the fact remains, I went to the beach and I know I looked FAR better than I have in years in that swimsuit!

Onward and Downward, Bikini Babes!!!

[goingfor60]

Hi Ladies...

I just got home from Las Vegas where I too was sporting a sort of 2 piece suit its got a top and a bottom but the middle is see through mesh. Does that count as a 2 piece? Well anyway I think so and I was told by the 3 men that went with me that I was working it like a real woman should!

I ate poorly but those were my choices - it was great for then but now the fun is over and I have another trip in 3 months that I have to work very hard for.

So congratulations all of you very bathing suit worthy babes and to those of you who sent birthday wishes. Thank you very much they were a great welcome with my homecoming.

Shannon

[Libbyfcr]

Shannon,

I hope the Vegas weather cooperated with you while you were here. Was kinda warm last week.... 110... 111 or so. This week is nicer. It has cooled off a little at night and makes it so we can open our windows in the evenings.

I am still hovering at the same weight that I have been at for two weeks. up a pound down a pound up a pound..... well... ya'll know. I think I know what I have been doing and am ready to get on with it. I am NOT going to settle for "this is good enough" because I KNOW I can and will loose the rest of it, look better and feel healthier.

Love ya'll BABES!

Libby

[liddle]

I know what you mean libby. Being so close to goal we could just say oh well good enough. That is NOT what I want to do either! These last 7lbs. will be the death of me. I have this fear I will be battling these 7pounds for the rest of my life. I really wanted to be at goal the very latest by my 1 yr. atkins anniversary (july 31) I really didn't think it would take that long though to be honest. These last pounds are the hardest. I'm thinking of trying the fat fast again. I just have to get myself motivated. It is SO HARD to only eat cream cheese and macadamia nuts. Have you ever done the fat fast? Well good luck. I'll keep my eye on your progress ;)

OH, by the way ya'll, I wore my tankini out in public yesterday! WOO HOO!!

Later,
Heather

[slimchance]

That's great Heather!! :thup: Congratulations!!

I can somewhat relate to those who are near goal. I am not quite what you would call "close" to goal, but I am starting to wear some of my old clothes. I find that it is so much harder to really motivate myself to eat well and exercise regularly while I actually have something that I can fit into comfortably. When I was down to only having a few things that I could squeeze into (and no money on my student salary to buy new) comfort and having to cover myself somehow was a big motivator. :)

I have been sporting a two-piece every couple of days just to keep motivated. I actually even let one person see me in it! :eek: They weren't blinded or scarred in any way, and I actually received a compliment...well, it wasn't a "you're hot!!" but it was "wow! you've really lost weight!" I think that at this stage in the game one is just as good as the other! :p

Has anyone else noticed that their bodies have changed shape as they lost? Well, obviously they have changed shape :rolleyes: but what I mean is that when you were at the same weight before (that you are now) that you were shaped differently? I find that my bathing suits don't fit me in the same way. My bust is WAY bigger than it was before (busting out all over the place) and my legs are slimmer...although my tail end hasn't seemed to slim down as much. :confused: I seem to be a strange apple/pear-shaped hybrid?? :o

At any rate...great job girls!! And just in time for summer!!

Cheers!

KC :wave:

[liddle]

I have been sporting a two-piece every couple of days just to keep motivated. I actually even let one person see me in it! They weren't blinded or scarred in any way, and I actually received a compliment...well, it wasn't a "you're hot!!" but it was "wow! you've really lost weight!" I think that at this stage in the game one is just as good as the other!

It sure is! I would die and sell my soul to the :devil: for a "you're hot compliment. It would also require me shedding an additional 10 pounds. There is just no way I'm gonna see 130lbs. At least not this summer ;) . Bask in the glory of your compliment and I know that by the end of the summer you WILL hear a "you're hot"!

later,
Heather

[Libbyfcr]

Yeah.... I remember the way we were years ago.... HA! This bod will never be the same. I have not been at my current weight since before I was pregnant with my last child. She is almost 6. What I notice most about how my shape has changed is that my legs are no longer the same. I carried a lot of weight in my hips and thighs and now that it is gone I have a lot of work to do to get the very top, inner thigh back into shape. Of course I also have that post pregnancy stomach that will probably never go away. If I was brave and had $$ I would seriously consider a tummy tuck. Ugh. I would however, wait a year because I would want to stay at a stable weight for a good period of time before considering surgery. hmmmm.... Maybe I should buy a piggy bank! LOL

Heather....I have never done the Fat Fast. I don't think I will either. I am just going to stick with my program, up my exercise a bit and maybe start swimming with my kids. I didn't swim at all last year and I missed that. I missed the things I should have been doing with my children all because of my embarrassment over my weight. No More!! NEVER again will I miss out on an opportunity like spending time swimming with my children. Life is tooooooo short.

Well...... getting off my box now.....

Ya'll have a great day!!
Libby

[rhubarb]

Hello, ladies!

Just checking in after a long absence. My son’s Bar Mitzvah was this past weekend – it was wonderful, beautiful, and the party was more fun that I had imagined it would be. Everyone’s hard work paid off, as it all went pretty smoothly.

I, of course, am COMPLETELY off the wagon. But, I have lots of healthy leftovers from the weekend (well, not including the pizza, but there’s tuna, egg salad and lots of greens) and should be well on my LC way soon.

I’ll try to read up on what you all have been up to … just wanted to say hi.

-Rhu

[liddle]

I don't know about the whoosh fairy but someone is looking out for me. I just got the greatest news! I was just awarded a scholarship for the fall semester of nursing school! This particular individual awards his scholarships on a semester basis so if he has the money to give and my GPA stays up I could get another one for the spring. I still have to pay for my books but who cares! It is the coolest feeling that a stranger is paying for my tuition out of the kindness of his heart. This has totally made my day!
Just had to tell anyone that would listen!


Later,
Heather

[rhubarb]

Wow, Heather – that is great news. Now you can spend the summer getting organized for your Fall semester, and not worry how you’re going to pay for it. How much time will Nursing School take? Are you going full time?

Today is my first day back on the wagon. I’ve spent the last week eating high-carb Bar Mitzvah Leftovers, and am now ready to get serious. I even bought DANDR, which I did not own PB (Pre-Bar Mitzvah.) I’m getting psyched for a healthy summer.

So, have bikini-lulls like this one happened in the past? Just when I was ready to jump back on the wagon and this board, everyone seems too busy !!

Best to everyone …
Rhu

[agonycat]

WOOT!

Congrats Heather! That is great news for your schooling. Warms the heart knowing there are still some really nice people in this world :)

As for me....I lost a pound and I am still waiting for the axe to fall at work. I wish next week would get here so I know "if* I still have a job or not ;)

Take care everyone!

[liddle]

Thanks for the pat on the back Rhu and Agonycat.

I know what you mean about looking for support Rhu. Now with summer break I have alittle time again, I've been looking for everyone and no one is around. Guess everyone is out in their gardens and busy with the kids. I don't blame them, I love summer!!! It'll be officially here in a couple days but it has sure felt like summer in NC! I love the feeling of the hot sun on my new body. ;)

Anyway I know some of the other threads are still pretty active. I've joined the 140's group. They're not as wild, but the support has been great. And that's what we're all here for, right!

Later all
Heather

[Libbyfcr]

I am just so excited. I have spent the last month dealing with the same three pounds....... but TODAY!!, today I am finally over the hump and down to 145. I weigh what my drivers license says I weigh!! HA!

I have not weighed less than 150 since I got pregnant with my baby. She is almost 6. That means it has been about 6 1/2 years since I have been 150....... I have not been 145 since God only remembers when. Oh..... wait..... I do remember. May, 1994. My good old mouthy friend, after not seeing me for a year walked up to me and gave me a hug and said "OMG, you got fat!"
(She was a tall, 80 something year old who had been an exotic dancer in her day.... and probably never weighed 102 pounds in her life.) I think I weighed what I weigh right now. I remember feeling like a blimp. Now I look at myself and feel pleased. Gee..... point of view changes eh?

Anyway.... shortly after she made that "fat" comment my husband had to go out of town for three weeks. I think I quit eating and lived on Diet Coke. I was 124 when I saw him next.

Maybe I am just rambling on and on..... but I wanted to share how I feel about reaching this point in my weight loss. My perspective about how I look has changed. My confidence in myself has greatly improved. IF someone commented on my weight today I am sure that I would NOT go on the Diet Coke starvation diet because I know better, feel better and don't have to take the word of another person as the absolute truth.

I hope that when you read this you get a little nostalgic about your own road to health. How has it changed you? How have you matured and grown? What memories stand out for you regarding your weight and have you gotten past them okay?

I want to be one of those women who become more beautiful with age, and to do that I think I must work on what's inside.

Thanks for listening...
ya'll are my captive audience... LOL

Libby :wave:

[rhubarb]

Way to go, Libby. You should feel fabulous! I look forward to having that kind of confidence, too. I’d been thinking about how the changes I make now will allow me to be stronger and healthier with age, but getting more beautiful from the inside out is a great goal – think I’ll take a page out of your book and adopt it!

Best –
Rhu

[rhubarb]

[sniff sniff]

Waaaahh!

I'm down a few and I have no one to tell!

C'mon everyone! Come back to the countdown all you outrageous, riotous babes!

[Libbyfcr]

Rah Rah Rah :cheer: Rhu Rhu Rhu........ GO BABE! :cheer:

That IS SO COOL!!


Libby

[Jkrohn]

Way to go Rhu & Libby! Congrats on your success. I have been crazy busy have not had time to check in with all my LC friends. I feel detached. But am doing gggrrreat!! I completed my first BFL challenge last week. Started challenge #2 last Monday. After taking the weekend to contemplate wether I should take a week off I took my measurements and said hell no! I am so happy with my results that I have to make them continue. We all know how hard it is to get back into the exercise game once you've been off it for awhile, Anyway I am hear to report after challenge 1 I lost 21 pounds, 23.5 inches, & 6% body fat. And that's just from when I started BfL. If we add what I lost before I started BFL I am down 42 pounds, 29.5 inches, & 12% BF! :D On my way out to find myself a new swimsuit. The ones I have are so droopy I can't wear them anymore. I'm thinking about the bikini.......getting closer to it everyday. ThHe tummy isn't my biggest issue it's my hips & things and well BFL has definately been working on them. Maybe will stick with a tankini?? A little safer.... Oh hell who knows until I find it. I miss you guys!! I miss our fun chats, success parties, & "get your a$# back on this LC wagaon before we..." talks. Hope the rest of you are doing well! Take care all and keep LC'ing

Messy

[rhubarb]

Thanks, Libby and Messy! I actually had the willpower to stay off the scale this morning – I didn’t want any slight fluctuation to burst my bubble.

I had a good weekend, too. Having the support of my wonderful BF helps. We went to a cookout where I couldn’t eat a thing but celery and dip (I’m a vegetarian, and they only non-meat stuff was corn and potato salad! Haven’t they heard of lettuce?) and as soon as we left, he said “what can we do about feeding you?” We were nowhere near home, so he drove right to the nearest supermarket. (I ended up with tuna and cheese from the deli department -- not great, but OK.)

Messy, WTG on the BFL. Let’s hear it for Droopy Bathing Suits, and needing new ones! My schedule for all of July will not allow me enough time in the morning to do BFL (son is in sports camp) but I intend to start up again in August. ‘Til then, it’s just the Nordictrack for me. Hope my results with BFL are as good as yours – I’m like you with the hips and thighs, but the tummy seems to be more of an issue with each passing year. (and child!)

Best to all … and bikini babes, if you’re reading this, stop your lurkin’ and post already!

Rhu

[Libbyfcr]

I am still here and still working on my health. Decided my health will be a lifelong project!! HA!

I am down one more pound. One little pound at a time I guess. It is much slower going now that I am starting to reach the end of the weight loss road.

Today I bought a book. I don't buy books very often with the library so very willing to lend me theirs. It is called "Understanding Fats & Oils" by Michael T. Murry N.D and Jade Beutler, R.R.T.,R.C.P. Now I have a new project........... going to learn more about fats and oils and see what I need to do to improve my families diet.

Glad to see ya'll posting. We are all so busy with summer that it is nice when I can relax a minute and drop in.

Keep on keepin' on..............
Libby

[slimchance]

Hello beatiful bikini babes!! :wave:

I have been on vacation for the past week and have tried lurking a bit, but not even much time for that. My week long vacation ended with Canada Day festivities yesterday. The weather wasn't great, but I put on my bathing suit and got into the pool for the second day in a row, and get this...there were other people there!!! :eek: I got some great reviews too..."man, you have lost one pile of weight" and "love the new swimsuit," and "you look great!" I was just beaming!! I was in the pool with a bunch of mid-20s guys...you know the ones that father time hasn't caught up with yet and they haven't a strip of fat on them? I wasn't in a two-piece, but at this point I'm a little surprised that I actually had the courage to bare what I did. It was worth it!!

It's back to school for me this week, and a lot of walking ahead of me. I will be doing about 2 hours of walking a day for the next 3 1/2 weeks...to school and back twice a day with books on my back. If that doesn't whip me into shape nothing will! :p

It sounds like everyone here is doing well. Congrats on the losses and achievements ladies!! :thup: Keep up the great work!!

KC :daze:

[rhubarb]

Once again, I’m kicking myself for getting on that scale. Up 1.5 pounds today. That makes a grand total of 1.5 pounds lost in two weeks of induction-like eating. I’m miserable over this. I know I could be getting more exercise, but could this all be due to poor hydration? I know I’m not drinking nearly enough water, but would that prevent any loss?

This is worse than when I was doing BFL and not losing – at least then I had the excuse that I was building muscle. I have been so diligent … what could be wrong?

Has anyone else had the problem where they just don’t loose at first, not even on induction? I’m not talking about stalls after weeks of consistent weight-loss – I’m talking about weeks and weeks of hovering around the same weight, gaining and losing the same two pounds again and again.

Best --
Rhu

[rhubarb]

Woops – Hi, slim. Here I was wallowing in self-pity, and I forgot to congratulate you on your foray into new swimwear! You go, girl! It must feel great to get those compliments.

And you can count on the walking to school helping. The summer I started art school I lost weight without even trying (a lot younger then.) I had to walk about 45 minutes to classes and back. I wasn’t carrying a ton of books, but I did have a huge pad of sketch paper that acted as a sail I constantly had to reign inn. Great for the upper bod! You’ll be in top shape by Fall …

-- Rhu

[slimchance]

No problem rhu! :D

I'd bet my bottom that the reason the scales aren't moving for you is because you haven't been drinking as much water. I lost weight the fastest when I was drinking from 3-4 litres a day. Pick up that water bottle!!! :p

Take care babes!!

KC :wave:

[Libbyfcr]

I’m talking about weeks and weeks of hovering around the same weight, gaining and losing the same two pounds again and again

That's me. I have been hovering for the last month. My bod has been playing gain a pound loose a pound gain a pound loose a pound. I hate it. I keep telling myself that I am on the right road and to keep up the good work. I like to remind myself of how far I have come.

Yesterday I actually tried on a pair of size 6 jeans. Brave girl aren't I? I could put them on..... but that was about it.

This week I am hovering at a couple pounds less than I was a month ago and my weekly averages do show a ever so small loss. (CALP...... weigh in every day, average it out every week).

You keep doing what you know is right. Keep a positive outlook and drink your water!! You can do this. :)

Glad to see ya'll enjoying your summer!

Libby

[rhubarb]

Libby, I don't want to diminish what you said, but I see by your stats that you started at 190, and you're now at 144. This tells me that at some point while LCing you weren't just hovering. I've started induction twice – once last March, (lasted about 6 weeks, then fell off the wagon just before son's Bar Mitzvah) and again two weeks ago. My weight has never stopped going between 198 and 196 either time. I've never experienced that big drop in weight at the start that most people seem to, or even a slow and steady decline for that matter.

I just wonder what's going on? I'd love to keep doing what I know is right – I just don't have any evidence that I am doing that! I feel better eating LC, but I'd like to reduce, too.

Well, I'll stop moaning and groaning now and get back to drinking my water! I'd like to see if that's what really makes the difference.

Best –
Rhu

P.S. congrats on the size 6 jeans – I bet by the end of the summer you'll be doing more than just trying them on -- you'll be struttin' around in 'em!

[Libbyfcr]

I've never experienced that big drop in weight at the start that most people seem to, or even a slow and steady decline for that matter

I guess I was just bitchin and moanin' about the last month. I am a perfect example of your quote. I lost a lot of weight right off the bat and then had a slow steady loss each and every week after that until this last month. Once I dropped below 150 I started to play gain one loose one. This is new territory for me. I haven't been here for years.

I wish there was something I could do for you. I am no expert and only know what is working for me. I have only done CALP and it seems to be working wonders for me. I follow CALP by the book and at this point feel like I could live this way forever.

I did have to work through finding out what foods were triggers for me. Pepperoni is a killer......Cottage cheese and cheese in moderation. Lots and lots of veggies. One little step at a time and I discovered what works and what doesn't.

Rhu..... I wish you the very best.... and remember, we are all here to lend a hand if we can.

Libby :wave:

[KarenB]

::in a little tiny quiet voice--hey, that's not MY voice....:D ::

I'm baaaaaaaack....

[beachville]

I too have the desire to get back into my bikini. Only ever bought one, but my goal is to buy another. After three pregnancies, one was a set of twins.....with all the stretch marks on my stomach, it looks like the map of the world. But who cares, when on the beach I could give directions to anyone!!! My husband bought me the "total gym 1000" for Mother's day, (what a guy!!!) but find it also works the abs really well. Crunches Ughhh!!! Hate them with a passion, but yes, they really work. Hope to see ya on the beach, I'll be the one with the map,... remember???

[rhubarb]

Welcome, Beachville. I have a longer way to go than you do before donning the bikini, but I'll be able to compare notes with you, as I'm sporting a map of my own. (No twins, but a stint with gestational diabetes and an 80 lb pregnancy gain!)

As for my fluctuating weight, its still hard to tell. I was up 1.5 and down 2 over the last two days. So who thinks I should just stop weighing myself already. [hand raised here.]

Best to all …
Rhu

[slimchance]

Hey beachville! :)

There are lots of great 2 piece suits out there now that are very stylish and provide coverage for things like stretch marks and the stubborn rolls that seem to stay to the bitter end. Tankinis are great and come in a variety of styles that suit different body shapes. Not to mention the fact that the sarong style wraps are very popular as well...sheer, but not....someone came up with a great idea there!! :D

KarenB great to see that you haven't wandered far! :cool:

Rhu--step AWAY from the scale...back away slowly...don't make eye contact...no sudden movements...back out of the bathroom...close the door...and RUN!!! :p We've all fallen victim to the hypnotic lure of the scale. I swear it must be more addictive than crack cocaine! :rolleyes: I am afraid of straying too far from the scale for too long because my pant-o-meter comes in so many different sizes at this point that 5 lbs can creep up without me even noticing. I have been keeping my measurements and take those about once a week to make sure I keep on track. Especially now with all the exerising I have been doing my body has been changing shape and the scale has been staying the same....sigh.... :o

Libby--wow size 6! I could probably wear my size 6 jeans...if I walked on my hands!! You go girl! I'm more of a bottom-heavy person so all my weight tends to sit below my waist. I can wear size small shirts (depending on the bust room) and I am still comfortable in my 12's. I am slowly moving back into my 10's, but I find that now that TOM is here the 12's are a little more comfortable for sitting in class. :)

To all the bikini babes...have a great LC day!!

KC :wave:

[PatHawk]

Hi everyone

What a fun, and inspiring thread :exclm:
But a bikini at 52 :q: - I don't think so :exclm: I did buy myself a tankini, which is a whole lot easier to get away with at this age.
Even though I have acheived my goal weight, I have always had a bit of a tummy - never was nice and flat, even as a young girl. I have been trying crunches to help here, and then I developed a hiatus hernia - this is a small opening in the abdominal wall, that lets stomach acid go back into the esphagus - rather unpleasant - my doctor says it is not related, but it makes me worry about all the crunches I was doing :(
I still walk lots and will continue to do so to keep in shape. I do worry about straining my abs though.
Have just updated my profile to reflect my current weight (have actually been here for a while, but neglected to update while participating in some of the discussions) and my continuing commitment to this WOL.
Hope that Shannon gets her bikini soon :thup:
Scotia - I was born in Cape Breton, and will be visiting NS & CB later in the fall this year. I am on an extended trip with my husband in our motorhome - so that I can control our food and our lifestyle :)
Cheers to all
Pat

[_wilow]

Hi everyone,
I'm still around too. I'm the most on again off again person I know. I'm trying to get a stick to itness going but am having a hard time lately.
Anyway, I feel compelled to share a book I've read recently that really helped me with my sense of self esteem... called "God on a Harley". It took about an hour to read and I got it from half.com for 3 bucks. It's really good and helped me with the whole false idea that I have to look like the beach babes in order to have self worth. I feel better in my own skin after reading it so I thought I'd share it.
Lisa

[slimchance]

I trust that we are all out sporting our new bathing suits and strutting our hot selves down the beach? :D

Take care everyone...and don't forget to come back to check in!!

KC :wave:

[liddle]

Hello all and KC.
Funny KC, I was gonna post a Hello earlier but my son was ready to go swimming. Been doing ALOT of that lately. I love having my own pool, no matter how much trouble it may be. And believe me, it can be alot of trouble!
Anyway,I am working very hard at trying to get my body ready for this sexy little dress I got for my cousins wedding. The wedding is 2 weeks from Sat and I am hoping and praying I can pull it off. Funny, I think people are more critical of you when you have more clothes on than when you're in a bathing suit. I think it's because if you're in a suit, the people around you are in a suit and they themselves feel insecure. On the other hand if you dare to wear a sexy dress, and others are fully dressed they somehow feel it's thier duty to be critical of your attire. Anyway, my point, I'm working my triceps to death! And everyother part of my body. If I get looks I want them to be looks of admiration, not discust.

Must go clean something. Have to make it look like I did something today. ;) Other than swim in the pool. :rolleyes:

Later,
Heather

[slimchance]

Hey Heather! :wave:

Great to see that the babes haven't disbanded. :D I have been spending a lot of time in my suit as well...much to my surprise. I never thought that I would feel comfortable in a suit this summer, but lo and behold...here I am strutting my stuff! :p

I can hardly believe still that I am no longer in my 150's...I was there for soooooo long. I'm cruising toward goal, and I may reach it by the end of September. I'm not looking for any miracles, just 5lbs...well, I guess 5lbs would be a small miracle, wouldn't it?

It's been sort of trying to hang around the pool with what I call "twenty year old, buck-o-fiver's." Tiny little girls with not a strip of fat on them. It's funny because they all look up to me as a great source of wisdom as I see them make all the mistakes that 20 year olds do with guys. I'm getting the body now AND I've got the smarts...who says you can't have it all?! :p

Keep up with working out those triceps, and some great calf exercises would totally complete the package. You'll wow them for sure!! :D Be sure to keep us posted on their reactions!

Take care all you MIBA babes!! (missing in bikini action ;) )
KC :daze:

[rhubarb]

Hi, girls

Glad to see you posting – I'm not ready to give up on this thread! (There's no other quite like it, you know.)

Heather, I know what you mean about folks being critical about the way others look; Even more so if you've lost a lot of weight, it seems. The better someone looks, the harder people tend to be on them ... look at how celebrities are treated! So take it as a compliment if you perceive any criticism.

I'm sure you'll look great in that dress, though. It probably fits you fine now, don't you think? Put it on and have a look – try not to be overly self-critical. Wear nylons – even the regular kind make difference in how a dress fits, drapes, etc.

K.C. -- Struttin' your stuff, huh? You go girl! you're really moving right along, aren't you? Almost at goal already – you must feel great.

I have to say that my progress has not been any better than the last time I posted . I still feel great, but am not losing. I know I have to get on track with the water consumption. I'm nowhere near where I should be. Not getting enough exercise either. I've decided to do an elimination diet and stay away from dairy, sweeteners and nuts for the next week. My plan is to see how I react, and then add things back in a little at a time. It's not going to be easy, since I’m already vegetarian. But I think it's worth a shot.

Oh, yeah – I also started a journal, finally. Right now there's just a (very long) intro with some personal info and history, but after tomorrow I'll be posting menus, and hopefully … progress!

Best to all …
Rhu

[Jo-Ann 2]

:blush: Who is that girl eating her steak with garlic cream cheese, is she the one who has been wondering around with those pants so tight she couldn't bend over. Why yes, it is your wayward child, Jo-Ann.
The Sailing with the new skipper is more than I could have wished for, so of course I had to celebrate myself up to a new time high. The point of no return came when I saw that number on the scale. AAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!! Well I've come back to the fold and hope you will help me remember some of the tricks of the trade "sort to speak". I started back about a week and a half ago and have lost a few so, so far so good.
I've missed you all and when I was wandering around the forum the other day at my mother's house she wanted to hear all about the girls. I'm glad to be back. Of course the first few days were exhausting, but now the mood is lifting and the energy is starting to come.
Hope to hear from you all soon.
Yours Truely Jo-Ann :wave:

[HulaGirl]

Gosh, you talk about bathing suit pressure! Try living on the beach in Waikiki, Hawaii!

You wouldn't believe all of the beautiful bodies on the sands here! I want to be one of them. I've been low carbing for about 2 weeks, and have lost some weight, feel great, and am hoping to buy myself a bikini for my birthday in January! Here in Hawaii, wearing a bathing suit is mandatory every day wear. I'm ready to give up my full body coverage and show some skin!

Bathing suit babes, thanks for the inspiration! And don't forget to wear your sunscreen...

Aloha

[liddle]

Yippie! A new bikini babe! Hey Hula girl, how's is shaken? :D Sorry couldn't resist. I suddenly got that image in my head when hula dancers shake thier hips like mad. Anyway, glad to have you here.

Try living on the beach in Waikiki, Hawaii!
OK, when can I move in? LoL. Gosh, that must be incredible. Have you lived there all your life? Hubby and I want to vacation there in a major way! It was between Hawaii and Disney World last year and well, with the kids, Disney won!

The pressure though, oh, that was just too much to handle when I was 190lbs. That is what I weighed when we went to Disney, much safer for my ego. Ya know. I watch the Travel channel, I see all those bikini's and thongs. I feel for you, I do. But don't you worry, we'll help you get that body ready for your spankin' new bikini come Jan. Just be true to yourself and we'll all give you all the moral support you can stand! Bikini babes honor! ;)

Take care,
Heather

[HulaGirl]

Hi liddle! Thanks for the reply. I think this support forum is amazing, and really appreciate everyone helping each other out. That's some kind of Aloha spirit!

No, my husband and I moved here after we got married, just for an adventure. After getting over the initial (read:missing friends and family terribly) shock, we just fell in love with it here. You can't beat the weather, the people are wonderful, and everybody wants to come visit you!

If you ever need advice on what do to when you come to Hawaii, please feel free to ask.

Mahalo Nui Loa!

[rhubarb]

Hi, everyone –

Hey Jo-ann! Glad you're back. Are you still doing the sailing thing? Or done? (sorry, I didn't know if this was one long trip, or a series short ones.) Don't worry about getting out of the swing of things – we'll help you to get up and running again. I have actually started a Journal and have (for now) given up dairy. If I can do those things, you can get back on track.

And welcome Hula Girl. It looks like you've had some great success in just two weeks – you'll be choosing that bikini in no time. You should glance back through this thread – lots of recommendations for catalogs, and such. (Although, I suppose in Hawaii, there's no shortage of places to buy bikinis!)

Personally, I'm still just hoping to wear that funky leopard print dress that's hanging in my closet. No progress yet to report. Still on my "elimination diet" (no dairy, nuts or artificial sweeteners) and I think – not sure – but I may have given up coffee. I've been trying so hard to drink enough water that I didn't have any coffee all weekend. I'd really like some this morning, but I'm trying to hold off and see how long I can go. But given the fact that I prefer it with sugar and half & half, It's just not the same anymore.

Now everyone has to help me persuade Heather to show us a picture of herself in the sexy dress and strappy sandals she got for her cousin's wedding. Go on Heather … you've been trying it on a lot anyway. Show us! (Heather … Heather … Heather … ) C'mon everyone!

OK, back to work now ...
Rhu

[sunshine2]

Boy its been a long time since I visited this thread....I'm sooooooooo jealous of you girls that are wearing a bikini,,,,,I want one damn it......

Okay, hubby and I have booked a cruise for Dec. 7, 2003 (our 15 year wedding anniversary), so my goal is to be in a bikini by then. You girls give me the inspiration to do it.

I'm tired of my Grandma suit, I'm ready to make the switch to a bikini and bear it all..........

[slimchance]

Hey babes! :wave:

Welcome back Jo-Ann! I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying the sailing. We have had some beautiful weather lately, haven't we? :cool:

Welcome to you HulaGirl! Hmmmm...so you just up and moved to Hawaii, eh? I'd love to do something like that, but I can just imagine the initial homesickness must have been terrible. The people there sound like they helped you get over that. It's looks so beautiful there, I'd love visit one day...You've inspired me!! :D

Sunshine, it's so great to have you back. It's wonderful that you have a new goal. I'm sure you'll be in that 2 piece before you know it!! A cruise? As a poor student I am infinitely jealous!! :p

Rhu, way to go on kicking the coffee...or at least trying to kick the stuff. I think it would be a small miracle if I could give the stuff up, but I'm hooked big time!! If that was my only vice I would be all set. Great job on the dairy, nuts and sweeteners! :thup:

It looks as though all the babes have come back to roost! :) Great to hear from you all again!

Take care,
KC :daze:

[Jo-Ann 2]

You gave up coffee Rhu, I bow to you. I've tried a couple of times and I think I'm truely addicted. It sounds like you were able to do it though, I'm proud of you kid. About the sailing, it's really racing, the club races are Wed. (mixed crew on a J29) Friday (female crew on a Mirage 30) and then I take part in 6 fleet regatta's(J29) that are 2-4 days and 2 or 3 regatta's that are club related. Yes that's alot of sailing. Now you know why I love it!!!!!! This year I'm crewing with an excellent team and having so much fun it should be illegal. I've just got back from a regatta in Prince Edward Island and in a about a week Chester Race Week starts. Yeeeeeee Haaaaaaa.

Heather we need to see pictures!!!!!!! You worked for it and we want to tell you just how good you look.

Sunshine, so I'm not the only wayward child who has found their way back to the fold.

Slim, thanks for the welcome back, so have you kept up any of that running?

HulaGirl, a big welcome from one ocean girl to another.

So where is Shannon? Is she a wayward child too?

Well, the Bikini was on this weekend, but only for my husbands eyes. It sure would look a lot better with 15 more pounds off though, a toned bod, atleast I've got the tan.
Yours Truely Jo-Ann :wave:

[HulaGirl]

Hello again, lovelies!

I have taken the plunge, and decided to do the Body for Life workout challenge for the next 12 weeks. I'm starting on Monday, August 4th(?). I figure this will help get me closer to my bikini droolin' goals.

Do any of you guys have a workout plan? Want to share some low carbing while working out tips?

Alooooha!

[rhubarb]

Hello, ladies …

How is everyone today?

Sunshine, where have you been?! Glad you're back. You'll be in bikini-shape way before Dec'03 – no problem. But you should ditch that grandma suit now. Why not check out a tankini? (I'm a good one to talk – I don't think anyone's grandmother would even go near MY suit!)

Slim and Jo-ann: about that coffee -- I never thought I could it give up either, and I wasn't even trying the first day. I've been working so hard to get my water consumption up that I just started with h20 on Saturday, and never got around to the coffee. I realized that the "dehydration headache" feels an awful lot like the "I need caffeine headache." I just kept downing the water to get rid of it. By Monday I really wanted a cup, but I decided to see how long I could go. Still on the wagon. We'll see, though. I can't see myself never drinking another sip.

Hula – there's a lot of great information about BFL right here on this board over in the exercise forum. Be sure and read Nat's Tips (http://forum.lowcarber.org/showthread.php?s=&threadid=29683) – lots of great info. I did BFL for a while before life got hectic, and I'll be starting again, possibly as soon as this coming Monday. (Depends on my older kid's schedule.) My best advice is don't plan on the upper body and lower body workouts taking the prescribed 45 min. They always took me longer.

Heather … We're still waiting ….

By the way, I've been told that "elimination diet" doesn't mean "eliminate everything." (You're supposed to eliminate one thing at a time to test intolerances.) So I've added nuts and seeds back in (still off dairy and sweeteners.) Hopefully spiking my calories will get things moving a little.

Best to all
Rhu

[liddle]

Hello girls,
Rhu- Heather … We're still waiting …. Ok, Ok, the wedding isn't until Aug.10 and I will not be taking pictures before the wedding so ya'll will just have to hold your bikini bottoms on. :D

Hula- I admire you for starting BFL. I really want to start that as well but this is just not the time with my mom coming next week and the wedding in Atlanta on the 10th. I'll be watching your progress though. By the way, I saw your web page and it looks like you have a beautiful life there in Hawaii. You mentioned you hubby just got a new job, what does he do? Do the salaries match the cost of living? I was looking at realtor.com and almost died when I saw what $ bought. NOT much!

Hope all you other bikini babes are doing well.
Take care,
Heather

[Libbyfcr]

Hey!! Glad to catch up with ya'll and see how you're doing!!

I am having my own personal little celebration today. Today, August 1st, seven months from New Years Day 2002...... drum roll please..... I am 50 and 1/2 pounds lighter.

Geeze...... 50 pounds. I can't believe I am the same person. No... wait..... I am not. I am very different. I have more confidence in myself. I have gone from depressed stay at home mom to a full time career woman with room to move up the corporate ladder. I am needed in my field. I feel worthy of my job. My lovelife is SO much better...... not because my husband's feelings have changed, but because of me and how I feel about how I look. I no longer need to turn the lights off. I am more active with my kids, able to leap tall buildings in a single bound... oh..... guess I am getting carried away.

Anywhoo..... that is how I feel.

Oh....and to keep this post on-topic. I HAVE worn my two piece swim suit a couple of times. Not out in a major public place with tans and legs everywhere you look..... but to my friends pool with lots of kids who don't care. It was a long time in the making.

Best wishes to ya'll
keep in touch.
:wave: Libby

[sunshine2]

WAY TO GO SUPERWOMAN, I mean SUPERLIBBY, This is totally SUPER!

50 POUNDS GONE FOREVER!
:cheer: :cheer: :cheer: :cheer: :cheer: :cheer:

[liddle]

That is awesome Libby! When are we gonna see some pictures? I certainly think 50 lbs. is worth a before and after picture! You are an inspiration!

Take care,
Heather

[Jo-Ann 2]

:sunny: What a bright and sunny day for you!!!!!

Congradulations, how many sizes is that? How many times did you just say no to something the old you use to eat? I bet it's close to the number of compliments you've gotten as the new you. So now, we all want to know, How good does thin feel girl?

You are an inspiration. It's just simply amazing what a woman can do when she puts her mind to it. Bravo.

Yours Truely Jo-Ann :wave:

[Libbyfcr]

Thanks Jo Ann..... you made me feel good.

How many sizes? Do you want the truth? LOL..... okay......
When I was at my heaviest I hated putting on my size 14, elastic waisted jeans. They really were way too little and I was to the point of squeezing myself in them and hating every minute of it. Then I wore great big shirts over them to try to cover them up. I remember going shopping and deciding that I really needed a 16 but when I tried them on they didn't fit any better than the 14s. I was so miserable that I wanted to just sit in the dressing room and cry.

Today I am about an 8. My two pairs of nearly new, size 10 Levi shorts were my goal 7 months ago. Now they are starting to look worn out. They are big and baggy and I notice that I tend to wear them to do yard work and not when I have a date with my Hubby. LOL. I have one pair of "New York" jean cutoffs in a 6. I love them. Not because they are great to look at but because the label says they are a six. AND they fit. Am I silly or what?

I was just thinking of something I use to do.....and am betting I am not the only one. After washing my T-shirts they shrink.... don'tcha know..... and I had this habit of sticking my foot in one armpit and stretching them out as much as I could while holding the other armnpit. Try that without popping the threads in them.

I don't do that any more. It's nice.

Compliments? Yeah...and I haven't gotten use to it yet. Sometimes I think a person is off his rocker complimenting ME.... and then it makes me smile and I think.. "if you only knew" .

Yesterday we had the exterminator scheduled to come in the morning. He came an hour before I expected him. Since I work late at night I was caught answering the door in my pajamas. Now..... I gota tell ya, I didn't look to spry. My pajamas are simply little cotton shorts and a matching tank top. True, they are new and rather cute..... but you woulda died laughing if you saw my hair. Anyway...... I let him in, ran and got dressed, and tried to tame my hair. When the exterminator left, cute young thing that he was, he called me a "pretty lady". It totally made my day!! Imagine!! ME!! pretty?

I wrote a novel again.
Love ya all!!
Libby

[HulaGirl]

Libby! Wow, how wonderful! Inspiring!!

Liddle, sorry I haven't gotten back to you. Busy busy week with work, and now my sore upper body from my BFL practice session :)

Yes, Hawaii is magical, but the cost of living is expensive. And no, the salaries do not reflect it here. In fact, we probably make less for the same job that you could find on the Mainland. But you adjust. You learn to live without certain things. Like nice cars...you don't need em', they'll rust anyway!

The tradeoffs:
Rainbows everyday

Mid morning rain showers that don't leave a humid blanket hanging over the island.

Tradewinds

Wonderful warm people

The clear blue pacific, with all of it's wonderful reef and fun fish friends.

FISH, FISH, and more FISH!

365 days of springlike summer.

Don Ho!

If you've ever considered being a traveling nurse, my cousin did that for awhile, and got a 6 month assignment here. There are always openings!

Aloha...

[liddle]

Hey Hula,
WOW! It sounds incredible there. I don't know if hubby would give up his car. I will certainly look into being a travel nurse though. Maybe I could get a summer assingment there while the kids are out of school. I couldn't be that lucky though, could I? The only thing I was wondering about is the sharks. Do you have many attacks? I know you mentioned somewhere about a sharks cove or something. That's the one thing I have to get over. Ever since I saw the movie JAWS as a child, I've been afraid to go into the ocean. This from someone who LOVES the ocean and loved to ride the waves! Anyway...

Well, looks like you'll be starting your BFL this coming week. Good luck to you! I'll be peeking in your exercise journal to see how you're doing.

Later,
Heather

[rhubarb]

Wow, Libby – You rock! And thanks for sharing all that with us. It really is encouraging – I can't wait to feel as great as you must. (I've had that cry-in-the-dressing-room feeling, too, and hope never to have it again.) Please keep checking in and let us know how you're doing. Have you thought about posting in the "Success Stories" section?

Hula – I had planned to restart BFL when my son's schedule changed, and guess what? Starting Monday, I'm in! I'm trying to plan my workouts now (have you seen the sheets provided on the BFL website? You can download 'em.)

For now I'll be doing it at home with my free weights, but I seem to have joined a gym this week! Really, I joined our area JCC (Jewish Community Center) so my daughter can attend their after school program. They have a complete gym there, so I may be able to get a workout in once in a while. It's unlikely I'd be able to find the time more than once a week, though, so I'll have to keep it up at home, and sneak in there once in a while for some variety.

Well, I'm off of caffeine one whole week now. Hard to believe, but the only thing I drink is water. At night, I get pretty tired, but hopefully the added exercise will help that.

No results of any kind to post, though, and that's pretty discouraging. I was hoping that staying off dairy and increasing water and exercise would send the scale number plummeting, but nothing of note to report. I'm a pound down. I guess that's not bad in a week where it was TOM, too.

Well I've decided my BFL resolution should be to stay off the scale, and keep the tape measure in the drawer 'til the end of week four. Think I can do it? Hope so – I used to be one of those people who said "inches" were more important than "scale weight" and then I kept jumping on that stupid thing every time I'd wanted to see if my latest LC tweak was worthwhile. No more! It's going on the shelf so I can't even step on it!

Gotta run – BF is coming back to the area tonight after nearly two weeks away – woo hoo!

Best to all –
Rhu

[slimchance]

Libby you are an incredible inspiration!! :thup: :D

I've been a really bad doobie this weekend, but I have resolved to get back to my good habits. I went crazy on junk food last night. I think it may have been hormones messing with my good judgement. I felt like poo all last night and ended up going to bed early. This morning I got up and had a good serving of bacon and eggs and I feel refreshed and ready to get serious again. You girls are the greatest inspiration...thanks so much!! :bhug:

I have completely given up on the running for now as I have been walking 1 1/2 to 2 hours a day 5 days a week to school and back. I definitely am noticing some definition in the legs from that!!

I think that I am going to take another stab at BFL come September 1st and maybe make a size 6 New Year's Eve outfit a goal. I am already in my 9's, so I figure that 5 months may be enough time to get trimmed down. :) BFL takes a lot of planning and a regular schedule that shouldn't be a problem once I get a normal schedule again in September. I am headed out west for a visit in 2 weeks' time, so I figure there isn't much sense in starting up before then. It is a great program and gives great results, so I'm really looking forward to it, AND to hearing all the great results you girls are seeing by the time I start! :D

Well, the sun is out, so I'm off to see the great outdoors. I hope everyone had a great weekend, and happy LCing!!

KC :wave:

[liddle]

Hello bikini babes!
I am so excited my Mom is coming for a visit. I was really wondering just what I was going to make for lunches and dinners but decided to keep it the same way it always is. She'll adapt. She's not that big on carbs anyway. I tried a new recipe tonight for dessert tomorrow night. I can't wait to see how it turns out. I added peanut butter to my cheesecake recipe then spread on some of Fern's peanut butter cup recipe. It's in the freezer now
( we like our cheesecake just barely frozen ) and Oh does this look good!!!!! :yum:


Well hope ya'll are doing well.
Talk later!
Heather

[HulaGirl]

Hi Rhu-

Did you start your BFL challenge this am?

I made it through my first upper body workout, and actually made it to work on time.

Hope you're having a great day! Bikinis here we come!

[Libbyfcr]

I am glad to hear updates from ya'll. We have all been so busy that I enjoy having a few minutes to sit down at the computer and read how you are doing. Besides, listening to your approach to exercise makes me want to do more for myself.

Thanks for all the encouraging words!

You're my inspirations. All of you.

Libby

[rhubarb]

Hi, babes --

Hope you're all well. I'm a little out of sorts today … won't go into it here, but for the curious, it's all in my journal.

Hula, I did start my BFL. I hardly got any sleep either Sunday or Monday, so I had plenty of excuses not to do it, but I persevered. As I suspected, the UBWO took twice as long as the 45 min. it's supposed to. Unlike you, I was NOT on time to work!

By the way, after several weeks Low Carb Righteousness, I decided on Sunday that I needed ice cream. BF and I went and got some Ben and Jerry's (the high-test stuff) and at first I was fine. We got back to my house at about 3:30, and by 4 pm he'd gone home, and I'd gone to sleep. Fast forward to 8 pm …. My kids return from their dad's house and wake me up. After that, I couldn't sleep all night. Evil sugar ….

Best to all
Rhu

[HulaGirl]

Glad you started the BFL program!

We're halfway through week one! :)

[slimchance]

Hi babes! :wave:

How goes the BFL? I hope those muscles aren't too sore! Don't forget to give us all the juicy details (highs and lows). Get us inspired!!! :hyper:

Take care!

KC :roll:

[rhubarb]

Whoa, Slim … if it makes you feel any better, my quads are killing me today! How about you, Hula?

Actually, I'm feeling very pleased with myself today; I had slept though my usual exercise time yesterday, but did my UBWO after work, which for me is practically unheard of. If I don't exercise first thing in the a.m., it doesn't get done. Both kids were out of the house, so I went at it before dinner! I hope I don't oversleep again, but if I do, at least I'm less likely to make excuses to get out of doing it!

Rhu

[HulaGirl]

I would say that my HAMSTRINGS are more sore than my quads. But it's pretty much all just generally sore! :)

It's been a great week. I'm proud of myself for starting something so challenging. I have definitely felt very tired during the day after my workout, and am going to take my "free" day on Sunday and carb load to see if it will help for next week.

Spent time in the CKD forum today reading up on carb loading for intense workout routines. I'm willing to give a carb day a shot if it will improve my performance.

Taking glutamine seems to help the pain!

I've been thinking about joining the Official BFL Challenge. I sent away for the challenger kit. I'm going to get my husband to take a before picture with our regular camera this weekend at the beach. YIKES! :eek: I figure I don't have to send in my final pic if I'm not happy with the results. But I'll definitely post the result pics here on day 84! Don't you worry!

Tomorrow is day 5....UBWO for me....can't wait to feel that burn at 6am! BFL rocks! And I AM going to finish if it kills me! :thup:

[slimchance]

It's great to hear that you both seem to be enjoying the program. It is a huge committment, and hopefully I will be able to make that kind of committment come September 1. I started the program a few months back, but found it too overwhelming as I was going to a running clinic, and was doing so much other exercise that that extra hour was sometimes hard to find. Just think...by the time I start, you gals will already have 4 weeks under your belt, starting to see the great results, and will be hearing all about my sore muscles! :p

Bill Phillips's book doesn't talk about stretching after the ub and lbwo's. I found that doing some simple stretching on my own after I was done helped a lot with the sore muscles. No pain, no gain (as long as it is a good pain) right? :)

One more day and you'll be 1/12 of the way through AND get your day off! :) Keep up the great work!!

KC :wave:

[slimchance]

Hey Hula, I could use your help....I don't know why it didn't strike me to ask you before, as you would be an honest to goodness expert! :D

We're having a Hawaiian theme party this weekend, and any suggestions that could "authenticize" the party would be greatly appreciated. (Please don't suggest that I wear a coconut bra and grass skirt...because that just wouldn't be good for anyone!! :p ).

We have thought of the plastic leis, fruity drinks with little umbrellas (which I will have to limit, of course ;) ) backyard torches for around the pool, inflatable palm trees and possibly some pink flamingos. Of course the plastic stuff is probably pretty tacky compared to the real thing, but I think it will be fun just the same.

Any honest to goodness Hawaiian Luau traditions or games would be super cool to try out. The party should go over well either way as I think most of the fellas are just happy that the girls will be over sporting swimwear. :p

If you can think of anything that might help out, I would really appreciate it!

Thanks,
KC :daze:

[HulaGirl]

Luau Game Ideas:

Limbo
The limbo is a classic Hollywood luau game. A long pole is held between two people. The contestants must walk under the pole while bending backwards to avoid hitting or touching it. With each cycle of contestants the pole is lowered until one person remains. (How low can you go?)

Pass the Coconut
The goal of this game is to avoid dropping the coconut or touching it with your hands. A coconut is held under the chin and is passed from chin to chin. Whoever drops the coconut is out. This continues until one person is left. (A coconut can be rough, so sand it before the luau.)

Coconut Bowling
This is like regular bowling, but you use a coconut as the bowling ball. You can use anything heavy that will stand up on their own as pins. Don't put the pins very far away! The coconut doesn't roll very straight or far! :)

Mahalo means Thank you.
Aloha means Hello, Goodbye, and I love you!
Hana Hou means Again, Again! And is appropriate to yell after taking shots. :)

[rhubarb]

Hello, babes ... hope everyone had a good weekend.

It’s Monday of a three-day weekend here in the littlest state in the U.S; Rhode Island. We are the only State still to celebrate “V.J. Day” or “Victory over Japan” day. That’s right. Ain’t it embarrassing? After establishing friendly relations with Japan, we continue to celebrate the day we dropped a second bomb on them, bringing W.W.II to an end, and causing them to suffer for years to come. From what I understand, every other State in the US used to observe this day as a holiday, and we are the only one left. I guess folks just can’t give up that day off in the summer. Every year, it gets dressed down more, being named “victory day” or some other way of making it less offensive. One Governor even dubbed it “Governor’s Bay Day” and opened all the beaches for free. Please! A holiday where each year Asian people of all different backgrounds report being made the targets of hate crimes is not “a day at the beach!”

------------> Getting off my soapbox now.

This is week two of BFL for me. Only screw-up on week one is that I missed the cardio on Saturday because I waited too long to do it, and my kids woke up. After that it’s nearly impossible to get any exercise in, so I ended up doing it Sunday.

Also on Sunday, BF and I took my mom and his parents to Brunch at a hotel. It’s a huge buffet at a place I wouldn’t be likely to go, but it was conveniently located for everyone. I was pleasantly surprised to see there were plenty of LC choices like eggs and fish (and other meat, but I don’t eat it.) I was able to stay mostly LC, but strangely enough, I found I was slightly embarrassed to fill my plate with tons of scrambled eggs, smoked salmon and shrimp, even though they are all perfectly “legal” LCwise. I just felt sheepish over the serving sizes I wanted. I guess I was like a kid in a candy shop. I did sample some of the desserts by taking bites off BF’s plate, though. Mostly they tasted too sweet (except for the chocolate mousse, which I more than sampled, I have to confess.)

The folks all want to know when we’ll make our engagement official, now that my kids know our plans. Looks like by the end of august if they’ve both adjusted to the idea by then. There’s more on the kids/engagement issue in my Journal.

Slim, how did the Hawaiian party go? And how come you didn’t want to run around in a coconut bra?

Hula, I can’t say I’m as enthusiastic about BFL as you are (I can wait to feel the burn!) but I’m planning to stick with it. I’ve hid my tape measure and scale and don’t intend to dig ‘em out until at least week four.

Everyone else? Heather, tell us about the wedding!

rhu

[slimchance]

Aloha babes!

The hawaiian party went off without a hitch and great fun was had by all! Thanks again for the great tips Hula!! :thup: There was no coconut bra for me...I look good, but not that good yet...the ol' tummy still needs some toning! ;) I was sporting my one piece around the pool and sporting flowers in my hair and leis around my neck. I rigged up a special cup with a half a cocount on top with holes for a straw and a flower, so I felt rather festive. I had to go pretty easy on the cocktails however, but the bathing suit was a constant reminder of the waistline. :p

Rhu, I'm sure the kids will come around, but even we as adults are a little resistant to change and the unknown, so I'm sure that has something to do with it. I hope the adjustment isn't too hard on them, but kids are pretty resilient when it comes to stuff like that. I'm sure it will work out ok.

I'm out enjoying 30 degree weather (Celcius, of course), and it's expected to stay this way for the rest of the week. I should have a great tan by the time this heat wave is over. :cool:

Congrats on week one of BFL ladies and I all the best for week 2...you can do it!!!! :thup:

Take care,
KC :daze:

[liddle]

Hello bikini babes!
Well, I had a great week! My Mom came in last monday and we laid around the pool (in my back yard)with the kids and went shopping till Friday when we drove to Peachtree City Ga. It wasn't as bad of a drive as I thought it would be, about 6 1/2 hrs. even with stops for gas, rst.rm, and food. The wedding was a BLAST!!!!! I am so glad we made the trip. The dress was great. It doesn't turn out so well in pictures though. It's kind of one of those things you have to see in person to get the total effect. You can't see the tie up the back or my shoes in any of the pictures. Oh well. Maybe if I get dressed up again for something I'll through on the dress again and have my daughter take back and side shots. We'll see. I wont post the pictures here but they are in my joural if you're interested.

BFL is sounding really good. I saw someone elses results after 12 weeks and I could not believe it! I'm thinking of getting the book after I get used to being back at school. I start Thursday. I'm finally in NURSING SCHOOL! WOO HOO!!! I'm so excited, can you tell!!!!!!

Well, I'm gonna go look at some other BFL jourals and get some more info.

Later Ladies!
Heather

[Jo-Ann 2]

Where are you????? So let me guess your all in your bikinies. I am guessing here. So how was everyones summer, tans? Pool parties? New outfits? Come on girls, Whats going on. I know that you haven't all fallen off the wagon, but if you have here's my hand, come back and play.
Yours Truely Jo-Ann :wave:

[slimchance]

Still here!! :wave:

I have been up to NB to visit the folks and had very limited internet access. It was a great trip except for all the food. To put it in perspective....I fell off the wagon and then it backed up over me. :o It was like a week long visit to a buffet. I got all my visiting in, but each stop involved staying for a meal full of carby goodies. I have officially started over at day one and regretfully I have to change my stats to show 151. :( I had been down to 145 for quite a while so I am really disappointed. This definitely throws my goals off by a good month or so now. :bash: It is my own fault and I blame no one but my obvious lack of willpower.

I hope everyone else is having a better time this summer. The weather has been so wonderful the last few weeks around here that I'm sure all you babes have been outside strutting your stuff!! :D

I start school a week from Thursday, so hopefully I can shave a few pounds off before then. I hope to hear from you all soon!!

KC :)

[Libbyfcr]

Got home from my vacation the other night. It has been very busy, going back to work and the kids starting school yesterday.

I sorta lost my LC mind while on vacation. First few days I was very diligent in sticking to the plan. Next five days were cookie-bliss. Last few days I was back on track.

Weighed in yesterday for the first time in 10 days only to discover that I weigh one pound LESS than the last time I weighed in. Go figure.


This definitely throws my goals off by a good month or so now. It is my own fault and I blame no one but my obvious lack of willpower.

Ya know KC, I don't like to argue...... but I have a different opinion. You have a great amount of willpower and you are doing a fantastic job of improving your health. I think of this journey as long term with it's ups and downs. Just like me going on vacation. I have no regrets about the cookie fest and this is just a part of life. If we can follow our low-carb WOL and do a good job of it, then I don't think you or I or anyone should beat ourselves up over gaining a couple of pounds once in a while.

I know that I am back on track. That is what is important...... getting back with the program.

Forgive yourself for tripping and then continue to enjoy that walk down the path.

I think you are great!
Libby

[slimchance]

Thanks Libby!! :bhug:

I know you are right, and we shouldn't put impossible expectations on ourselves. It's just hard to see the big picture sometimes and how good we've been all along and the lifetime committment that we've made when we're bloated from a week of overeating. I knew the scale was going to move upwards for me as I hadn't been excercising to counteract all the food. Ah well, I enjoyed my vacation anyways, so I guess the extra pounds were worth it. :rolleyes:

I am back on track now...thanks so much for the ongoing support from everyone here!! :thup: I didn't even have any bad withdrawal symptoms...which is a small miracle, AND the scale has moved back below 150 again, so the bloating is a good part of the weight gain....sigh of relief!! :)

I hope you are all enjoying your vacations, and I hope to hear from you soon!!

KC :wave:

[Jo-Ann 2]

So I've done alot of stumbling lately and find myself back to 151 after seeing 157 a month ago. Summer has been very challenging for me, I travel quite a bit to regatta's and you can just guess the food they have available at yacht clubs. Bread, bread and more bread, whether it's on the food or around it. Even the chicken wings were questionable. And did I mention beer!!!!!!! I actually kept my water up but most mornings after the coffee a ceaser was involved.
So to the subject of the post, after trying to get back up on the wagon for the last week, I had the make or break night last night. I cooked roast beef, chicken thighs and when I finally started the nightly sugar cravings instead of make my now famous for breaking me p and j sandwich, I made myself a double egg, cream cheese, splenda and flavouring micro thing. For me, this was a last resort because I don't use splenda but thought I'ld try it. Now I'm not going to make a practice of it but I will be replacing the premenstrual p and j craving with something atleast alot more lc. So I notice that a few of you have come back too, I wrote Shannon and she said she had had an injury and that she was not ready to come back yet, but I'm sure she will be back, it wouldn't hurt to send her a p.m.
So hello, slim and libby. Do we need to change the goal of this thread, say maybe from bikini to lingerie????
Yours Truely Jo-Ann :wave:

[Libbyfcr]

Hmmm..... I say a bikini is a bigger challenge. The only one to see me in lingerie is my Husband....and he has seen it all..... fat, thin, pregnant, beautiful, not. LOL

I wana wear a bikini in public and feel good about it.



Maybe next summer.......and I am willing to hang in there for the long haul.

Libby :wave:

[HulaGirl]

Major deadlines at work. Very stressed! But still on BFL/bikini track, and doing great.

I'll be back next week to chat.

Aloha!

[slimchance]

I'm with you Jo-Ann! :thup: Bikini season has just about come to a close around here, and though most nights in the winters here really warrant flannel pj's, flannels don't really require the discipline that skimpy silks and satins do! :p And great job on getting back down to 151!! Way to go!! :D

Glad to see that we're all still around and keeping busy.
Hula--great job on the BFL!! Are we gonna hear about any stats soon?

I hope everyone is having a great week.

KC :wave:

[Jo-Ann 2]

That's, Libby for the bikini and slim for the silk lingerie, myself there's a two piece jungle print that is like a bikini with a fringe (yes you heard it right) that I wouldn't mind looking good in. It's definitely at home wear, he, he.
Hula girl, bikini, don't you just wear those all the time in the sunny south??? (Small sound of jealousy for that warm weather in her vioce). It's sunny here today and I have to admit I love the fall.
Well, I have officially gotten back on the wagon and thanks slim for the pat on the back, I needed it. I forgot how good it feels to have someone give you positive feedback. Thanks again.
So my son is in day camp and I have some free time ( now we all know that free time is a very loose way to describe it, there are a ton of things to do when you are a stay at home mom in a one car family).
Today consists of getting the last of the school supplies and returning a few things, some grocery shopping and then the usual household chores. By the way, who has been living in my house this summer, they are simply messy and don't seem to give a hoot, oh ya that's me and my family. I have some big, and I mean Big house cleaning to do after school starts. Talk to you all soon.
Yours Truely Jo-Ann :wave:

[rhubarb]

Hi, babes – I'm here, and … I'm engaged!

You can read all about it in my journal. It wasn't much of a surprise, since we'd been planning it for a while, but it's fun to finally be able to tell people. I never imagined I'd enjoy wearing a diamond ring either, but strangely, I am. I think it's because it's his grandmother's and it's got lots of sentimental value. I wouldn't have wanted him to buy one – especially not when we're considering renovations to my house - our house - before he moves in.

Anyway, the bikini's never been my goal – it was always the funky leopard dress hanging in my closet. (No fringe, though, Jo-ann!) I'll post pictures if I ever get there.

The BFL is still going well for the most part. But I'm a bit behind you know, Hula, since I missed two workouts this week. I should know what will happen if I don't get enough sleep. Oh well – back on track now.

Slim, when do classes start again? And Jo-ann, when do your kids go back to school? Like Libby's, my kids have already started. My baby girl is in first grade! I have to admit, I got a little misty over it. I was fine until I saw her line up with her class and they all filed off together. There's always been something about watching my kids from behind when they don’t know I'm looking …

It feels like summer's over since I finally got my kids schedules all worked out. Both kids have one instrument and one sport each. It wouldn't be so bad except my ex (they're dad) will not get involved with any of it. He sees them 2 or 3 nights a week, so I have to schedule everything on "my" days. (Let me tell you – they're ALL "my" days. He feeds 'em, but that's about it. Luckily, he's a pretty good cook.) Anyway, it makes for one stressful wage-earning Mom, but at least I'm off dinner-duty those few nights a week!

Best to everyone,
rhu

[sunshine2]

Rhu - first of all - congrats on being officially engaged! That is wonderful.

Okay, I haven't posted in awhile, and its hard that summer is over to "think" about bikini's. But, I've decided to keep thinking about the bikini so I can wear one next year. My weight has went up tremendously, but I'm not going to give up. I will wear a bikini next year, so I'm going to stay focussed on it. I've got two buddies hear at work, and we're starting a major exercise program next week. This will help keep me motivated. My carpal tunnel seems to be doing better, so hopefully I can stick with the program. If we start now, by next summer, we truly will be bikini babes.

DH and I are headed for a 5 day cruise next year for our 15 year anniversary, so I'm looking forward to struting my stuff in a new bikini! ;)

Bikini Babes, summer might be over, but we're not through yet!

[Libbyfcr]

Ya know........... this has always been my favorite thread.

Glad to see a post!


I am hanging in there. FINALLY joined a gym and am enjoying it. Shoulda done that 10 years ago and saved myself a lot of trouble. LOL.

My weight is consistant. I would still like to loose a few more pounds, but at least I am eating healthy and getting more exercise. I will have to give a little report after I finish my first 6 weeks. It gives me time to see some results.

Anyway............. ya'll keep on keepin' on.............

Later Babes.
Libby :wave:

[sunshine2]

Originally posted by Libbyfcr
I am hanging in there. FINALLY joined a gym and am enjoying it.
Good for you! I'm actually getting excited about starting a new workout plan next week. I've got two buddies that will help push me. I'm looking forward to exercise again, wierd?

I am already counting down until next summer, can't wait to shop for a new bikini!

[Libbyfcr]

Good for you Sunshine! When you have a minute maybe you can tell us more about your new workout plan.

Would love to hear about it.

Hugs...........
Libby

[sunshine2]

Lib, I was supposed to start my new exercise plan (it was actually going to be a slightly modified BFL plan) on Monday, 9/30, well, bad news came my way and I found out my Grandfather had died. I had to leave town Monday night and drive to California, long long drive from Oklahoma. Anyhow, it really put a damper on my exercising. So needless to say, here it is the 15th of October and I still have not started. :(

I am hoping to join a 24 hour gym by my house on 10/25 (this is when I get my bonus). I think the 24 hour gym will help out, it will be convenient and will allow me to exercise and I can't make up an excuse, right.

After all, I am planning on being in a bikini next year for sure! It might be in December, but 2003 is the year for me, I know it!

[Libbyfcr]

I am very sorry to hear about your Grandfather. That is very sad. :cry:

I have been enjoying the Gym. Way fun. The folks there are very nice and helpful. I know just the basics, and am doing things slowly and correctly. I learn a little more each time I am there. There are two members with bodies that would make you look twice (and be envious) and the rest are like me...... and it is nice. I feel like I fit right in. I met a new friend there. He walks on the treadmill next to me on occassion.......and keeps up a good conversation while he does it. He is 84. I am impressed.

I have been down there about 5 days a week. Can't see any differences yet...... but it is early. I am not going to get my tape measure out intil I hit at least 6 weeks.

Bought the BFL book yesterday. It was $5 and I couldn't resist. hmmmm..... guess now I should read it !!!

Libby

[rhubarb]

Hi, you guys

Nice to see that you're keeping this thread alive, Libby and Sunshine. For a while last summer, I felt like I was talking to myself here!

I haven't been around in a while – mostly because a huge plummet off the wagon. I had given up on BFL because I couldn't get it to fit with my life's schedule, and after that I became very discouraged and gave up altogether. As you might remember, I never saw that immediate weight drop that many do on LC, and I suppose that contributed to my overall feelings of failure.

But – no more! First of all, I can tell what all this "normal" eating is doing to me. My clothes are tighter, and I have no energy. Last weekend I took my kids to visit the folks, and my father even remarked that I had put on weight. Nice, huh?

Also, there's wedding planning to do! I'm planning to go dress shopping for something nice and off-the-rack this spring, and I want to have lots and lots of choices. Hopefully something sleeveless.

I bought some "firm" tapes on e-bay, and plan to start that on Monday. The newest change in my schedule is that my 13 year-old son has started to rouse himself in the morning. I used to have to plan my exercise routine around getting him out of bed at 6:30. That meant I'd have to get up early enough to be finished exercising and showered by then, but not anymore! I've finally gotten him to use the alarm clock effectively, and this could net me an 30 – 45 min more sleep.

Libby, kudos on the joining a gym and actually going to it! Hard to believe you haven't seen a difference yet, but you will soon. That's the best part about exercise. Consistency nets results.

Sunshine, sorry to hear about your Granddad. You are smart to set a goal for starting up the exercise. I did it that way, too, for many reasons. First, I was away both of the last two weekends, and I'm too disorganized at home start anything that will last. Second, I want to be back on the wagon long enough to have the energy. Third, I like to be on a
M-W-F weights, T-Th-S cardio routine. You'll have plenty of time before the 25th to figure out how you want to proceed – why don't you visit the gym before then? Maybe they'll give you a tour and help you set up a routine?

Best –
rhu

[sunshine2]

Rhu - so good to see back. I too went off the wagon this summer. BIG TIME. put on around 27 pounds. :( But I'm back on track - AGAIN. I notice the pounds are coming off much much slower, but hey, I don't care, they are coming off.

I know the biggest reason that they are coming off slower is my lack of exercise these days, NOTTA. Good Idea about the gym, I have a free three day pass, but I was going to use that as a bargaining tool to joining at a better rate. But I will go check it out - soon!

Libby, Yes read the BFL book, it is really good. He really teaches the importance of quality in your exercises instead of quantity. I enjoyed reading the book very much.

Okay, Rhu, you must keep us posted about the big day coming up!

Bye bikini babes,
:wave:

[TriciaW]

Greetings! I hope you ladies don't mind if I join in here. I wish I found this thread months ago. I am leaving on a wedding trip/vacation/honeymoon all wrapped in one on 11/7/02. I will be on a sailboat in the British Virgin Islands for 16 days. Nothing but bathingsuits everyday!!! While I am not even close to my goal weight, I am going to suck it up and be brave and wear a tankini!!! I just ordered two from Vicki Secret and they are so cute---they came today. Have not tried them on yet but in my mind's eye, I look acceptable. Hell, maybe even cute. :D Life is too short. Plus I have been fake-baking and have added a nice brown tint to what's left of my cellulite. Looks a whole lot better than pasty white! Hope you gals are having a great day!!

[slimchance]

Welcome Tricia! :wave:

We're always glad to see new faces around here...actually, we're pretty glad to see old faces around here too...where is everyone?? :D

Your trip sounds wonderful, and congrats on the wedding! Think of me in the cold with my nose in the books while you are basking in the sunshine...er, on second thought, maybe just focus your energies on your new hubby!! :D

Welcome aboard!

KC :daze:

[sunshine2]

I'm still around........ :wave:

Tricia, yes, join the fun. The thread has died down a little bit, maybe because its hard to focus on a bikini when its 30 F outside. Brrrrrrrr.

But since I have soooooooooooooo long to go before I could even squeze into a bikini, I am focussing now on the bikini. That way, MAYBE by next summer, or next December - 2003 when DH and I take our 15 year wedding anniversary on a cruise, I can wear one.

Talk to you bikini babes later.

[Jo-Ann 2]

Contrary to popular belief I have not dissapeared, infact some of me came back this summer :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek:, yes, I ended back at square one, but have been "mostly" on plan for the last 6 weeks, and have gotten down. I'm doing a Halloween challenge so I'm not posting the new weight till then, hoping it will be a negitive one :D.
Anyway IIIIII"MMMMMM BBBBBBAAAAAACCCCCK!!!!!!!!!
Hi Rhu,Sunshine and KC and it's a pleasure to meet you Tricia.
Tricia, I want to go sailing, the boats come out this weekend here. :( :( :(.
See you all
Jo-Ann :wave:

[Libbyfcr]

Nice to see ya'll...... glad you are still with us. I have enjoyed this thread more than any other, and even though I don't spend much time on the internet these days I do get to catch up once in a while. It's nice to have encouragement and motivation from here to help keep me on the right track.

As far as summer swimwear goes..... I DID wear a two piece swimsuit ONE time this summer........ heck....... better than where I was at a year ago.

When I reach my one year LC anniversary I think I will throw an internet party. This is the first time in my whole life that I have made a New Years resolution and actually stuck with it. :D

Keep up the good work. :wave:
Libby

[TriciaW]

Well, fellow bikini babes, I tried on the two tankinis I ordered from Vicki Secret. BOHHOOOHOOO. I detailed the experience ad nausiem in my journal, so I will spare you all the gory details. Suffice it to say it was a sobering experience. As I don't have a choice, I will be in bathing suits on my trip. I will be wearing pareos most of the time for "sun protection".

[slimchance]

Hi all! :wave:

Hang in there Tricia! Many of us here are still not quite ready for that bikini yet, but just having it gives you something to strive for for next summer, right? Just make sure that your "sobering experience" is turned into a super dose of motivation, instead of an unhealthy dose of discouragement! ;)

I've been a bad doobie over the past couple of months. I'm in school and have been grabbing lunch on the run more than I should have. I'm trying to get a handle on that because I want to get myself a New Year's outfit that makes my friends look twice!! :D That is my new short term goal. Anyone else have any new short term goals?

Catch ya later girls!

KC :)

[rhubarb]

Hi, babes and a belated welcome to Tricia.

Getting back on the wagon has been hard, but I've had a good few days, and I feel ready to start my "firm" tape tomorrow. (Wasn't ready last week, it turned out - wanted to make sure I was in the swing of things LC-wise first.). I have some rare alone time in the house right now, and right after I finish typing this, I'm getting back to my housework so that I'll be organized to start my week tomorrow. Being organized is half the battle for me.

I've noticed that I tend to do the best with LC and exercise when I have a long term goal or special event, and that as the goal nears, I give up out of frustration and/or stress. This happened before my son's Bar Mitzvah for example. Now that I see this, I'm going to try harder to prevent it from happening again. I have about half a dozen family events and "mini-goals" before my wedding in Nov 2003, and I really want to be a lot healthier and stronger by then.

Sunshine, how's the exercise going? Were you able to join the gym on the 25th? Let us know.

Tricia, your trip sounds exciting. Are you having a "destination wedding?" Can you tell I've been hanging round the wedding planning boards? :) Congratulations!

Slim, it's good to see you back. I know what you mean about "grabbing" lunch. Before the last few days, I'd start out fine, and then the grabbing would do me in. Planning ahead helps, but it's hard when you're in school though.

Hi, Jo-ann , Libby , Hula (if you're still here) and everyone.

rhu

[dispatcher]

Bikini, by summer, hmmm?

I'd say yes. That's been my dream! Actually, my Fiancee convinced me to get one to wear this winter in the Jacuzzi. I tried it on, It doesn't look that bad, but I still have some work before I go flaunting myself around. I'm on the southern-most part of Louisiana. The Beach is in my backyard. There's never anyone on the strip where I live. (Maybe that's a good thing). Definitly a bikini by summer (If only in my back yard)!

[Jo-Ann 2]

It's been a tough couple of months, but we all have our own stories to tell I'm sure. So girls I'm starting this up again for all those bikini babes that have fallen and all those that want to go for a goal that is, well you know, all in a little fun.
So are any of you still out there and are there any of you that want to aim for something, you known, small and skimpy, bathing suit or not.
So I'm off to change those stat's to the truth, and yes, sometimes the truth hurts.

:wave: Jo-Ann
P.S. Oh yah, if you've been here and I haven't met you yet, HI. The more the merrier.

[sunshine2]

Yes, Jo-Ann, lets start over! I'm still around and still have that same desire. I don't want to just own that skimpy bikini like I have done in the past, I actually want to wear it. ;)

I'll be changing my stats soon too, I just need to get brave enough to step on the scales.

Talk to you later. :wave:

[Libbyfcr]

Okay Babes...... I am still here. Thanks for checking!

Last year my new years resolution was to loose 50 pounds. I did it........ I LOST 50 pounds.

This year my new years resolution is much, much easier...... I would like to loose only 10 pounds.

I have done pretty well over the holidays in spite of my self. I am 5 pounds over my summer low. Thats okay. I am still 50 pounds less than I was on January 1st of 2002. I was so miserable. My clothes we uncomfortable. My jeans didn't fit. My shoes didn't fit! Imagine that..... your shoes? yup. I can vividly remember how tired and bogged down I felt in my own body.

Yep, I feel like I have been given a new lease on life.....and this summer...... well,....... 10 pounds it is. My goal is to eat healthy and be kind to my body and to take good care of myself. Gota live in this skin for a long time still and I am now looking forward to it.

Keep your chins up folks.
Life is good. :Party: :Party:
Libby

[sunshine2]

Libby,

Your our New Years Resolutions Success Story!!!!! Way to go. I actually GAINED weight last year. :rolleyes: But, I'm not looking back, it won't change anything, and only bring about negative feelings. So......on that note, I'm excited about 2003 because "2003 is the year for me", thats my new moto. My goal is to loose 60 pounds for the year 2003. But in order to do that, I have commited myself to exercising and eating right.

I'm excited that 2002 is finally behind me and I am on to make my resultions come true in 2003 :cheer:

Okay, lets start our Bikini countdown - we have right at 6 months before the official summer begins, and less than that for spring, so you guys ready? Okay, on your mark, get set, GO!

:wave:

[rhubarb]

Oh, you guys!! You always manage to bring me back here.

I am in yet another attempt to get on (and STAY on) the wagon, and I would love it if this thread were active. Does anyone think we should start a new thread? Bikini II?

summer may be 6 months away, Sunshine, but my wedding is in 11! November 9, 2003. Woo Hoo!

I bought a dress (on eBay of all places) and although it fits, I'd like it to fit even better. It's a halter, and I've got to get these arms in shape!

Best to all ...
rhu

[sunshine2]

Rhu, Libby, Jo-Ann & Everyone else out there that is still alive- I started a new thread called Bikini Countdown II - 2003. So we can focus on 2003 and our bikini wearing summer.

Rhu, how exciting 11 months and your getting married, wow, just think, this time next year, you'll be married!!

Okay, bikini babes, I'll be looking forward to all your motivation and support so we can wear that bikini in 2003.

Talk to you guys in the new thread.......

:wave:

[mlindie]

HI all,
I am new to this and so first I want to say "hi". I am back on the wagon again and I'm determined to stay eating the way I have to! I not only do this for weight loss, but for my life!
I would love to accept the challange of a bikini by summer. My stomach was destroyed after my PG with my son. Even at 119 (my low after PG) it looked like a rotton apple (nice thought I know). I will just get a high-wasted one or wear a cute wrap or maybe I will finally break the bank and reward myself with a tummy tuck. I will then drive to my favortie beach and sport my new look with you :D .... I have double incentive since I have a two week familly cruise to go on in two years. I just want to look better than my 100# sister FOR ONCE!!!! I can do, I can do it!
Michelle
PS how do you put your stats at the bottom of your signiture?

[wonder ful]

If I follow the plan - exercise moderately and drink plenty of water - how long will it take me to lose 50 lbs. I'm following to the letter. Any advice?

[rhubarb]

Hey wonder ful - we started a "Bikini Countdown" for 2003, so c'mon over and join us. (It's here (http://forum.lowcarber.org/showthread.php?s=&postid=790131#post790131))

Everyone is different, so no one can say how long it will take anyone to lose, but this board is full of god tips in the main forums. One place to look is in "Low Carb Tips" - see the orange menu bar above.

Welcome!

[luddybell]

im with you! bikini it is.. i have till july to bust my butt ( no pun intended) and my THIGHS ( yes mom blessed/cursed me with thunder thunder thighs) so i will look great for my vacation *alone* with DB (evil grin ) hehe... and not only to look great but to feel great .. cuz i hate my fat body , im a skinny girl trapped in here and have been trapped since i was 11... 10 years dang i think its time i escape! :D

[luddybell]

ugh you guys........ i have been soooooooooo bad, i know its all about the TOM visiting ( this is my first time lcing while "its" here) i have totally demolished 3!!! Pure delite bars!!!! dark chocolate ( my weakness) the bar says no effective carbs, but i know it has to have some hidden carbs somewhere that are gonna ruin my chance at wearing that itty bitty bikini the DB bought me ( hehe isnt he sweet?) to wear on our vacation in July :cry:

i just hafta loose this weight im sick of being the fat girl!!!