Bye-Bye 2008

I decided that for 2009 I'm not going to make resolutions, instead I'm going to set goals for 2009. If I make resolutions then the first time I mess up I'm going to be angry with myself and quit... but goals are things you work towards achieving. If I mess up it's okay, I can get back up and keep going and it's okay. Goals are a work in progress. I like that idea better. Below I've posted my 2009 Personal Goals (pertaining to weight loss). I've included procrastinating because I think my procrastination effects all areas of my life... I get lazy and stall or I sometimes just allow myself to get distracted very easily. I'm done with that. Also improving my personal image isn't really weight related but sort of... I want to look in the mirror and feel good about myself. Right now I'm sort frumpy. Not just overweight, but also I dress sort of sloppy. I go any ol'way to work... I throw on whatever is clean. I don't want to be that way anymore. I'm currently going to school to further myself in the health industry, I need to start looking the part. I'm work as an Office Manager/Chiropractic Assistant. I'm basically the doctor's right-hand-woman. I know my job well. I have five years of experience under my belt, plus a background in management. But I don't feel people take me as seriously because of my appearance. It's sad but true. I want to feel good about myself, and for people to see as the professional that I am. I want to be taken serious. I want to start taking pride in the way I look. I do it during my time off, on the weekends when I'm spending time with Ross or going somewhere with Vi... I should be that caring everyday.

Here are my goals:
- No Procrastinating
- Improve Personal Image
- Reach WW Goal
- Make WW Lifetime
- Get to Personal Goal
- Exercise Everyday 5 days a week

Anyway, tomorrow is the start of a new year, and new beginnings. Here's to 2009!

CHALLENGERS! Our first Holiday challenge is over on Monday the 5th. Please have your weigh-in info to me by the 9th - that's next Friday. Also I'm sending every Challenger a little prize for participating, please send me your final weight and your mailing address if you haven't sent it already. Our new GET HOTT BY VALENTINE'S Challenge starts January 10th, I'll be posting details VERY soon. Let's get ready and get HOTT!

Happy 2009 Everyone!

Out Of Control

I feel like I've completely fallen off the wagon and my body is waiting for the first of January to get back on... even though it knows I can gain weight in the next two days...

Not having my regular weigh-in schedule/meeting has affected me. I think about a month ago around Thanksgiving I should of temporarly switched to Tuesdays because I know Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Day were all going to fall on Thursdays. But I didn't, I thought I could handle it. But I can't... I need my meetings, I need my official weigh-ins and going on different days doesn't have the same affect. It doesn't. This week has been totally bad. I don't know if I've gained or have maintained because I know for sure I haven't lost anything.

I don't feel right, eating right I think has become a part of who I am... I feel terrible... since I've been off program almost every night I've had odd strange dreams. My body doesn't feel good and it's not even fun eating. I don't know what my deal is... I think for one I'm broke so I can't go grocery shopping right now to get the things that I need or want that are on program, and another thing is the holidays got the best of me... and not only that but not having my regular meeting to go to has truly thrown me off.

I'm trying to stay at least close to being on program. Tomorrow I'm going to do the same. I'm not trying to cause damage to what I've already lost but I think my mind is already set to start over on January 1st. I think I'll peek at the scale January 1st just to see what I've done... but my next official weigh-in won't be until the 8th exactly one week from the first... so it'll give me time to get rid of some of the holiday evidence.

I feel so gross right now.

Shortcuts to Healthy Cooking

If you're tired of takeout but too tired to cook, you can still eat healthy without a lot of effort.

Sometimes cooking healthy while you’re trying to lose weight can seem like extra effort, but it doesn’t have to be. If you're tired of takeout but too tired to cook, you can still eat well without a lot of effort. What's the secret? Cutting back on prep and cooking time, without adding calories.


Here are some recommendations

Shortcut Strategies

Purchase dried bean, rice and pasta mixes with flavor packets so that you don't have to measure out lots of spices and seasonings. (Buy reduced-sodium varieties if you're following a low-salt diet.)

Eliminate slicing and dicing with packages of fresh or frozen vegetables that are already cleaned and chopped or shredded.

Take home a whole roasted chicken to make a quick chicken salad, burrito or wrap.
Use canned and dehydrated soups as bases for heartier soups and stews.

Short on Time, Long on Flavor

Jodie Shield, M Ed, RD, recipe developer and nutrition consultant to The Chicago Tribune, shares some of her super-fast meal ideas below. A few more tips come from Bev Bennett, cookbook author and weight-loss columnist for The Los Angeles Times Syndicate.
For quick jambalaya., stir-fry salad-size shrimp, diced low-fat Italian sausage and chopped bell pepper. Combine with a cooked Cajun-style rice mix until well blended.
One-dish pasta entrées. make simple family meals. Try adding chopped broccoli and diced lean ham to a cooked reduced-fat macaroni-and-cheese mix. Or make a vegetarian version with chopped fresh tomatoes and lightly steamed asparagus tips.
Feed a crowd with a wild rice-turkey casserole: Stir-fry leftover turkey breast, chopped broccoli and dried cranberries; combine with a cooked wild-rice mix.
Go vegetarian with black bean burritos.. Stir-fry diced onions and combine them with canned black beans (rinsed and drained) and a cooked rice mix. Layer down the center of tortillas, top with salsa and low-fat shredded cheddar cheese, roll up, and bake until heated through and the tortillas are slightly browned.
Add a dash of lime juice, hot sauce and a cup of chopped cooked chicken breast to canned chicken soup. Sprinkle with cilantro and you've got hot-and-sour soup. in a jiffy.
Slice and arrange store-bought, precooked polenta. in a 9-inch square pan; top with soy-based chorizo and a little tomato sauce. Bake until just heated through, and you'll be dining Italian-style with almost no effort.

Orginally posted on WeightWatchers.com (http://www.weightwatchers.com/util/art/index_art.aspx?tabnum=3&art_id=48881&sc=3002)

BLAH

I feel so blah. I've fallen off program and I can't get up. Okay, not really I ate like crap yesterday and today. Yesterday I started the day off great but by the time we were on the drive to Ross' I hadn't eaten, caved and we went to Nations. This morning I got up and had homemade tortillas, hash browns, eggs and real Mexican hot chocolate from the disc, no prepackaged envelope bs. Ohhh it was sooo good. Now I feel like shit. I'm going to drink some water, not get to crazy and get back on program tomorrow.

I didn't go to weigh-in... so the next time I can go is Thursdays January 8th... so that gives me some time to get my butt back into gear and lose some weight before than.

How did your Christmas week go?

Super Saturday

I'm back on program today. I started out my day with oatmeal and a 1/2 cup fat free milk, sweetened with splenda. 3 points and it keeps me full for hours. I haven't journaled in two days. I need to find my passport thingy asap. I'm going to weigh-in tomorrow. I was only .2 away from my 15 pound goal last weigh-in, but that was before Christmas... who knows now. We'll see. Wish me luck.

The Day After

I didn't journal again today. I'm not even sure I know where my tracker and stuff are... but I think I did okay. I'm having an issue getting in all my water. Tomorrow's a new day... and the day before weigh in.

The holidays have thrown off my weighing-in schedule. I weighed-in on Tuesday, now I'm going to weigh-in on Sunday... my next weigh-in will have to be Thursday January 8th! Well at least it'll give me time to get a good first loss of the year going.

Not much going on here... getting my list of new year resolutions going.

For those of you who are doing the holiday challenge... make sure to get a finally weigh-in to me on January 5th. I'm getting my ideas for prizes together now. I'll also get hosting another challenge for those who want to participate... I'll have more details up soon.

Choosing2Lose's 12 Pounds of Christmas Final Challenge Update

Christmas Eve

I'm sorry I don't have time to do a real post. I'm running around today like a chicken with my head cut off... for me Christmas is a two-day celebration. If you mess up today, it's okay... just make sure to journal, journal, journal! Like my leader said at the last meeting... on Christmas if you over do it - journal it and call it a vegetable! I love that leader!

Merry Christmas!

Crazy Tuesday

It's been a crazy day... starting with losing 1.4 pounds this week! I am pumped. I spent the rest of the day roaming around San Francisco... we finally went to the holiday ice skating ring. We had sooooo much fun. I'll have to write a better entry tomorrow. Right now I need to get started on some holiday baking and journaling everything I had to day. I didn't have much, but it was bad stuff...

Throwing In The Towel

I'm throwing in the towel for this week... I feel hopeless about it. I'm feeling bloated, didn't eat my best... etc. Tomorrow is weigh-in which is good, because tomorrow I get to start all over again.

Laziness? Unmotivated?

I'm having a problem with journaling. I don't know what my deal is... laziness? I think I did pretty good yesterday, of course I don't know because I haven't journaled my food yet.

I did however pass up temptation to order pizza. Vi was totally pushing me into it... but nope. I didn't cave. Okay well... I did for a second but I picked myself up. I got online and started to place the order until I realized I didn't have any avaible money in my checking account and would have to pay for it when the guy came to deliver it. I was sort of too lazy to dig in my pockets so I decided against ordering pizza.

Today I'm motivated. I woke up late and haven't had breakfast, I'm going to get up and have some as soon as I finish this post. Imma have some oatmeal. I think I'll make beans and rice for dinner. I'll see if I can convince my mother to pick me up some chicken and I'll make rice bowls for dinner. Rice, beans, a little chicken and salsa.

For lunch maybe I'll have a Weight Watcher's Shake or pull something out of the freezer. I have to see what I have in there.

Well, I've got a busy day ahead of me. I have my living room to finish, and my kitchen to do. Sometime between now and Christmas Eve I have to find some time to go to the store and pick up some food for Christmas. Maybe I shouldn't of slept in this morning.

I've better get moving.

Super Saturday

Since I went over my points yesterday I need to be good today. I woke up but I'm not hungry at all. I'm going to have some oatmeal in a bit. I still haven't finished journaling my food from yesterday.

Giving it some thought I think for Christmas Eve and Christmas I'm going to allow myself to eat whatever I want, count it as my flex points but the main rule is I have to journal it and calculate the points before I eat it.

Well, I've better get going. I have tons to do today.

TGIF

I'm tired today, and I've over eaten. I don't know how much over my points I went but for sure I'll be super dipping into my flex points. I had two fried chicken breast. Now I feel sick to my stomach from all that grease.

Getting Back In Gear...

There's no excuse, but there are reasons. I had a gain this week... 1.2. I can't honestly say I don't know why. I ate! I ate, and ate and didn't journal properly and didn't stick to my points. That's why I had a gain. There isn't anything I can do to erase last week... I can only look forward to next week and really kick some Weight Watcher Ass!

This past week has been tough. I've been gathering my Christmas gifts, I haven't even wrapped them. My class final exam was today. It's been a stressful week and I'm starting to think when I get stressed I run to my old friend - Junk Food.

I already feel some of the stress ease up, just finishing off the semester and being 90% done gift shopping... my next weigh in is going to be on Tuesday due to the holidays.

Well... I've better get back to decorating the tree...

Sagging

In my 32 years of life, I never noticed any sagging... okay maybe slightly in my breast if I compared them to when I was 17... but that happens. But today in the mirror (in a very unflattering angle if I may add), I noticed MY BUTT IS STARTED TO SAG! I noticed my breast were a little lower last week... I just figured I needed better support .

First my breast now my butt?! I'm assuming it's from the almost 15 pounds that I lost. I haven't lost this much weight in a VERY long time... 2001 maybe. WTF AM I GOING TO DO?! I CAN'T LET THIS HAPPEN! I would rather have a big ol'booty and a big old stomach for my saggy breast to sit on.

But I've worked hard to lose these 15 pounds and I love the feeling of fitting in to most larges, more than Ex-larges. I think this is a sign that it's time to get serious about my workouts and tone up. I think I can lift them all up with some good old exercise.

On a better note, last night I was looking in my closet for possible coats I can share with the homeless... it's been beyond super cold over here - snow in the hills cold. We don't get snow in California... especially here by the bay. It just don't happen here, but it's been happening this week. Anyway... I pulled out this coat a co-worker had given me about 5 years ago. It fit snuggly then, so snug that I couldn't wear it comfortably. I would try it on from time to time but it always fit the same... uncomfortably snug. Last night I poured my saggy ass and boobs into it and guess what?! IT FITS! Yes! I couldn't believe it. I'm pumped. Imma start wearing it after new years.

For 2009, since I'm already losing weight - my resolution isn't to lose weight. It's to improve my self image. I'm going to get my home organized, and my closet together... get rid of clothes that aren't flattering and start dressing a little better. In the last few months I've been shopping around and have a nice collection of slacks at thrift stores. Now I just need shoes and a few more sweaters. It's time. I work in a professional environment, my boss dresses nicely and I look like a rundown intern. My hair is usually messy, I wear jeans and running shoes everyday. I'm 32, a full grown adult. It's time I start dressing like one.

Tomorrow's weigh-in. The holidays are tough and I haven't done my best this week but I think there is still hope for a loss. I'm going to stick to program and try to get more water in... I'll let you know how it goes tomorrow.

Off

I'm off this week, I went over yesterday not too bad - but still it was over. I started to day wrong too. I'm going to get a grip. As soon as I'm done updating here, I'm going to make me a WW shake, pack some healthy snacks to take with me to the doctor (going with my mother to her appointment) and going to keep healthy in mind when planning dinner. I'm going to save the day.

Chocolate Marshmallow Bark

POINTS® Value: 3
Servings: 12
Preparation Time: 5 min
Cooking Time: 5 min
Level of Difficulty: Easy

A sweet treat for all your holiday gatherings. The name ‘bark’ sounds fancy but this candy bar-like treat couldn't be easier to make.

Ingredients
8 oz bittersweet chocolate
2 tsp unsalted butter
3 cup(s) Kraft Jet-Puffed Mini Marshmallows
* Line a 9- X 9-inch pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil.

* In a double boiler, melt chocolate and butter over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until thoroughly combined; remove from heat and stir in marshmallows. Scrape chocolate mixture into prepared pan using a silicon spatula; smooth into a somewhat even layer. Refrigerate until chocolate sets, at least 1 hour; keep refrigerated until ready to eat. Cut into 12 pieces and serve. Yields 1 piece per serving.

Notes

* This basic recipe is very versatile: You can add your own favorite ingredients like nuts, dried fruit, crispy cereal, crisp crumbled cookies or even fresh fruit. If you use fresh fruit, however, the bark must be refrigerated and eaten the day it is made. Fresh strawberries, blueberries and pineapple are all excellent options (could affect POINTS values).

Festive Feta Spread

POINTS Value: 3
Servings: 16
Preparation Time: 15 min
Cooking Time: 0 min
Level of Difficulty: Easy

This dip was a favorite at a recent recipe tasting. It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to five days so it's great for drop-in holiday guests.

Ingredients
7 oz roasted red peppers
1 pound(s) 1/3 less-fat cream cheese
4 oz reduced-fat feta cheese
1 large garlic clove(s)
1/4 tsp black pepper
3 tbsp dill
1/4 cup(s) dill
10 1/2 oz baked low-fat tortilla chips

Instructions

* Slice off a 1 1/2-inch piece of roasted pepper to use for garnish; wrap and refrigerate. In a food processor, combine remaining roasted peppers, cream cheese, feta cheese, garlic and black pepper; process until smooth. Add chopped dill; pulse until evenly distributed.

* Scrape mixture into a serving bowl; cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 1 hour (or up to 5 days) to firm up slightly and for flavors to blend.

* To serve, smooth surface of dip with a spatula. Arrange dill sprigs on top in a circular fashion to form a “wreath;” cut reserved piece of roasted pepper into tiny “berries" and place on wreath. Or create any other decorative pattern you desire. Yields about 3 tablespoons of spread and 8 chips per serving.

Notes

* This recipe can be cut in half to serve 8, but it keeps so well (up to 5 days refrigerated) that it makes sense to make the whole batch to have on hand for those unexpected holiday guests. Serve with pita wedges, whole grain crisp breads or crackers and/or raw vegetables. (The dip alone is 2 POINTS values for 3 tablespoons.)

Saturday

So far, I'm doing pretty good today. I haven't lost the weekend yet. We just made pizza, I'm waiting for it to cool. I might have to dip into my flex points tonight. We might go dancing or practice our Salsa video here at the house, so I might be getting some exercise in. I'm not going to work out today and I only got 28 minutes of slow walking in yesterday... tomorrow I'm getting on the treadmill.

Well that's about it for today... not much going on. Gonna to go enjoy my Ross Time...

Back 2 Blogging

Finally a written entry. I missed writing, but I committed myself to one week of videos and I did just that. This week I'm committing myself to one week on complete program, and I'm doing just that. I'm aiming to hit all my intake and exercise goals.

Last week, if you watched my videos - you'll know I didn't do so well. But luckily, I still lost. I don't like the feeling of getting on the scale and guessing/hoping/praying that I have a loss. I prefer getting on the scale and feeling confident I'm lower. I feel like a super star when I see a loss. I'm aiming for that every weigh-in.

My treadmill is still down, my goal this week is to find another way to exercise for now. I moved some stuff around this week in my living room so now I have room to do videos. 30 minutes 5 days is my exercise goal. Yesterday, we walked to Dollar Tree and back, it over an hour of exercise... so I counted it as 46 minutes. For everyday that I exercise I'm going to give myself a foil star sticker on my journal. My goal is to collect 5 a week and earn at least 10 activity points.

My weeks run from Thursday through Wednesday. So this week I'm planning to not workout Sunday and Wednesday. Sunday: just because it's Sunday and that's usually my lazy day, and Wednesday because I have a full day this next Wednesday. I work all day, then I have to prepare for my final Thursday morning.

One routine I'm aiming to get into is to plan and prepare my food the night before. Giving it some thought, I've some up with a lose plan:

- Almost every morning I have a Weight Watcher's shake, blended with a cup of fat free milk and ice. I can preload the blender with the milk and shake powder and store it in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning all I have to do is drop in the ice and blend it up.

- Also keeping low points snacks on hand and zero point veggies in baggies ready to pack in my lunch tote for work will help also. I just have to remember not to pack too many pointed snacks and focus on getting in more vegetables.

- Ideally, I would like to pack salads for lunch. But I need to work on that. I haven't had a salad in a long time. Dinner I still don't have worked out... I'm going to aim to have a healthy carb, protein, and vegetable.

My plan isn't fully worked out, but I'm getting there...

I just realized this morning when changing my email signature that I'm only 4.6 pounds away from reaching my 10%! This is very exciting for me. My next goal after reaching my 10% will be my 25 pound loss. That would put me at 171.2. I can't wait.

I'm also making changes in my BMI number. Starting my number was 34.8 now I'm a little down... 32.2 - getting to 29.9 (169) would get me out of the Obesity category in into the Overweight one. I have a long away to go, so I'll just keep chipping away.

Make-up But No Hair Brushing...

DietSodaDiva's One Week Marathon - Day 7

DietSodaDiva's One Week Marathon - Day 6

DietSodaDiva's One Week Marathon - Day 5

DietSodaDiva's One Week Marathon - Day 4

DietSodaDiva's One Week Marathon - Day 3

DietSodaDiva's One Week Marathon - Day 2

DietSodaDiva's One Week Marathon - Day 1

it's wednesday...

My excitments been kind of down. Can you tell? I've been feeling blah. I think Thanksgiving wore me out and I'm still trying to recover.

I haven't been very good on program. Yesterday, was the first day I didn't really journal. I remember what I ate, so I'll write it down today. I'm sure I went over my points.

This morning, I was thinking about what was going on with me. What is up with this week. I'm not really stressed. Sunday, Ross and I did watch a history channel documentary thingy about the end of the world, etc... which was pretty scary for me to think about and caused me anxiety for a couple of days. I don't like when people start talking about that, or speak of a bleak future. I like to think positive and dream of a positive future... not that the world we know today is going to turn into hell... anyway...

Even though the show caused a little anxiety, I don't think that has anything to do with my lack of motivation this week. I don't even think it's a lack of motivation... it's a lack of healthy options in my house. I wasn't able to get groceries this week... so Friday or Saturday morning I'm heading to the grocery store and getting my butt back into high weight losing gear.

Now, I just have to work out my exercise situation.

TOM came yesterday, gggrrrr... I got on the scale this morning and it said 182.5 even though it's only showing 1.1 pound for the last two weeks... it means (if my scale is correct) that these past two weeks I've:

- Broken the plateau
- Lost during Thanksgiving
- And am SUPER close to getting my 15 pound loss marker (only 1.3) more to go. Once I get my 15 pound marker I'm well on my way to earning my 10% award! After that I think I'll still be aiming for my mini 5-pound goals and set a medium goal of 17 more pounds. When I hit my 2nd 10% (17 pounds) that'll put me at a tiny bit over 1/2 of my total goal and at a smoking HOT 160.2. I was hot at 160ish. I have a picture of me that weight I'll have to post it later.

Well, I better get going now... I'll be posting a video tomorrow... hopefully.

Happy Losing...

So Tired

It's been a crazy long day, a full day in the math lab, then working at my mothers. I didn't journal at all... I know what I ate and tomorrow morning I'll journal it all... I don't think it's going to be good... this week was basically shot. I can't wait until Thursday to get weigh-in over with and start a brand new week. Starting Thursday for one full week I'm going to attempt to make a video a day. Lately, I've been on youtube a lot watching other weight losers videos... some post everyday. I don't think it's for me... but maybe for just a week if I make a video a day, it'll get me back in track. I'm still expecting a loss this week.

Sad Monday

Yesterday, I went over my points so I'll have to work those used points into my journal for the rest of the week. Yesterday, however I did get my butt moving on the treadmill and did a pretty good walk/run... the most I've done since I started exercising again...2.22 miles in 30 minutes! I went up from about 1.83 since I started either last week or the week before.

This morning Ross looked at my treadmill and declared it out of commission until he can see if he can fix it. I'm not sure if I mentioned it but when I'm on the treadmill the band moves to one side, and now it's all raggedy on the left side. Ross said for me not to use it until he can take a look at it. :( I'm going to clean up the living room today, so tomorrow I can get some exercise in using a video. I have a tae bo dvd, and a few other ones I can use. It won't be the same as going for a walk/run, but exercise is exercise... and the last time I tried tae bo it kicked my butt.

Thursday is weigh-in and I'm pretty confident I'll have a loss. Maybe not what I'm expecting but after being the same weight for 3-4 weeks in a roll, I'll take anything under 183.something.

Today, so far I feel pretty good. We went to bed late, so I slept in since I couldn't use the treadmill. I had my morning shake, and didn't really pack any snacks... I have tons of water drinking to catch up with so I'm doing that until lunch time. I'm not even hungry, I'm trying to get away from snacking just because I have the food and the points to eat it. I've totally cut down on my Fiber One bars, I was addicted to them for a minute there.

Well, that's it for now. I'm hoping to make a video this week... either tomorrow or Thursday. Most-likely Thursday.

Happy Week...

8 Tips for Choosing a Fitness Buddy

A partner can boost your weight-loss success.

You know the old saying, "Two heads are better than one?" Well, that holds true for weight loss, too. Working with a partner to eat right, exercise and solve problems can boost your chances of weight-loss success.

"Having a partner can be incredibly beneficial," says psychologist Joshua Klapow, PhD, associate professor of psychology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

In order to benefit from having a weight-loss buddy, however, you need to pick the right person. Partnerships work best, Klapow says, when the following hold true:

A partner can boost your weight-loss success.

You know the old saying, "Two heads are better than one?" Well, that holds true for weight loss, too. Working with a partner to eat right, exercise and solve problems can boost your chances of weight-loss success.

"Having a partner can be incredibly beneficial," says psychologist Joshua Klapow, PhD, associate professor of psychology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

In order to benefit from having a weight-loss buddy, however, you need to pick the right person. Partnerships work best, Klapow says, when the following hold true:

You have similar behavior goals
Your buddy system will work best if your goal — to exercise four times a week and eat on plan, for example — matches your potential partner's goals.

You have a similar commitment to eating right and exercising
If you are very serious about losing weight and your partner is wishy-washy, the partnership won't work.

Your schedules mesh
You can't jog together easily if your partner works days and you work nights.

You agree to reinforce positive behavior and offer each other lots of praise.
"If a new behavior is not reinforced, it won't stick," Klapow says.

Jealousy won't be an issue
Good buddies are supportive even during weeks when one loses weight and the other gains.

You exercise at similar intensities
An effective partner not only shares your activity, but also does it at the same intensity as you. If you walk fast and your buddy dawdles, someone will have to change speeds.

You see each other in person
Pairing up with a buddy online or over the phone can be helpful, but Klapow says that face-to-face partnerships are more successful.

You do more than just form a buddy system
Losing weight with a friend is just one of the strategies that leads to weight-loss success. You'll multiply your chance of succeeding by following other proven strategies as well, such as writing down what you eat and charting your physical activity.

If you can't find the perfect buddy in your circle of friends and acquaintances, look in your community. Post a buddy-wanted note at work, church, social organizations or the local parks and recreations department. Or consider approaching someone you see at Weight Watchers meetings or someone you know from the Message Boards who lives in your area (be sure to take safety precautions when meeting a stranger). "You'd be surprised at how many people who are doing this alone would be happier doing it with a partner," Klapow says. "Someone has to take the initiative."

You'll both be on the road to weight loss in no time.

Article By: Alice Lesch Kelly Orginally Posted: http://www.weightwatchers.com/util/art/index_art.aspx?tabnum=4&art_id=13511&sc=3039#Story

So Far So Good....

So far today I'm doing pretty good. It's almost 3pm and I still have 20 points... this weekend, since I'm use to having my flex points I'm working on an hour to hour basis... paying super close attention to my eating, points total, and staying on program.

So far, so good...

Flex Points Gone

I didn't finish all my flex points yesterday, but I did today! The rest of the week is going to be strictly to my daily points... no extras. I think I'll be exercising for the rest of this week for extra points.

These leftovers are kicking my butt.

How are you all doing?

T-Day Is Here! Are You Ready?

Well it's almost 12:30pm, and I haven't had a meal yet - but somehow I've already used up 16 points. I can feel it already, today's going to be challenging! I've been trying to count everything, including tastes and nibbles. I think for lunch I'll have a salad with a little turkey on top. For sure I'll be using of not all, most of my flex points today.

Every thing is pretty much made and ready to eat, I stayed up super late last night preparing everything. Now I just have to go pick up some tights, clean up a little and set up my table. This year I'm going to use all my vintage glass wear. I'm excited about that.

Whatever you're doing today... Happy Turkey Day to you. Remember, a holiday is just that ONE DAY not one day plus the following weekend.

Challengers, hang in there... WE CAN DO THIS!

Choosing2Lose's 12 Pounds of Christmas Challenge

Feeling Great...

I got up this morning and forced myself on the treadmill... it wasn't so bad once I was on it. Gave me some time to think and prepare for my day. When I got off I was super energized and ready to rock once I got to work.

I thought about a few things when I was on the treadmill...

I got on the scale this morning, mine is sometimes wonky but gives me an idea of where I am within a pound, sometimes even closer... either way, I got on the scale this morning - it said 181.5! I weighed in at 183.6 last weigh-in (on Thursday)... my starting weight was 196.2 so that means I'm down 14.7! I think for sure I'll be getting my 15 pound marker next meeting, I can't wait.

I started thinking about why this time is different from my other attempts. I'm actually doing it this time. I'm actually losing weight and sticking to my journey! I think this time I'm looking at it differently. When I go to meetings I take the time out from my day actually sit there and listen to what the leader has to say. Since I have a busy schedule, my meetings are really my only ME time. I think that's why I've keep it so hush-hush about me attending meetings. I want them all for me, my time.

I listen to what the leader has to say, but also I've changed the way I eat... I think healthy and getting the most out of my points (most days). In past attempts I was still going to fast foods, trying to convince myself a whooper jr. was really just a small 6 point hamburger. Since I restarted I haven't even thought about fast food, there really isn't anything there for me... and if there is, the servings are too small. Not worth the points.

Aside from WW people, or my healthy friends... everyone either laughs or looks at me crazy when I say I'm making it a healthy Thanksgiving this year. They assume all I'm having is turkey and salad... funny thing is I don't even have salad on my thanksgiving menu right now. I don't think I will add it either, it's a holiday... I don't want a bowl of lettuce with turkey sprinkled on top. I want the good stuff, except healthier. There are a few things I won't be making healthy, like the cheese cake, cookies, and peach cobbler crisp. What I am doing is making myself a crustless pumpkin pie, the cheese cake if I break it up into a pan of 24 cupcakes comes up to I think about 3 points (I'll have to calculated it again). The cookies are to take to Ross' mother's house... and the peach cobbler crisp is for Ross.

I'm making the cranberry sauce with splenda, the veggie sides should be okay... the only fattening thing is the stuffing, gravy, and cornbread. I'm skipping over the casserole dishes like macaroni and cheese. I'm sure all the fattening stuff will be at Ross' mothers... so I'll eat healthy at home and just nibble at her house.

I feel good and confident I'm going to make it through this holiday on-program.

NOTE:
CHALLENGERS 1 WEEK DOWN, TIME TO CHECK IN PLEASE CONTACT ME TODAY BY COMMENTING THE BLOG, EMAIL, OR YAHOO GROUP TO TURN IN YOUR LOSSES (or gains).

Feeling Good...

I think I'm going to shake this Plateau! I think what I have been doing wrong is when I calculated how many points I should be getting I counted myself has a 1/2 housewife... instead of giving myself 2 points for housework I gave myself 1... even though I do all the housework at home, and for my mother's apartment I still work 24 hours where I sit mostly on my butt, and I go to school for 5 more hours where I'm also mostly on my butt. Okay so I gave myself 1/2 credit for being a housewife... but also have been counting my cleaning as activity points... so I've sort of been non-aware cheating myself... I think.

So this week I stopped counting those points. I got on the scale this morning... and it said at first I was down 1.6 then the next three times (with in minutes) I got on the scale it said I was down 1.1... I'll take either one! Hopefully, by December 4th I'll be down at least two pounds.

I went to bed super late last night, so I couldn't wake up in time to workout... I should of went to bed early. So today, as soon as I get home - before I do anything else... especially turn on the computer, I'm going to do 30 minutes on the theadmill, I have to get into the habit of NEEDING to work out everyday... I can do it, I know I can. I did it with my walks here at work. Up until recently, I use to walk at least 20-45 minutes every other day. At lunch before I had my lunch I would go for a walk, somedays I didn't want too... but went anyway, even if I just went for a walk around the block - I would still go, even if I wasn't feeling good I would still go. Sooner or later before I realized it, it just became habit - and if I didn't go for a walk I felt off the rest of the day.

Recently, my schedule here at work changed, so I can't go for walks at lunch time... it's been about two weeks now - I'm still adjusting.

Hopefully, I'll get around to making a video sometime soon... I don't think tonight, I'm thinking possibly Wednesday or Thursday early in the morning when the Turkey is in the oven.

Sunday...

I usually post earlier in the day, but I waited because I had plans to make a video today but I don't think that's going to happen. I didn't end up going to Ross' this weekend, so I spent the weekend cleaning and preparing for Thanksgiving...

I pretty much have everything I need for the cooking Thursday... well actually I'm going to start the cooking on Wednesday night. I'm hoping to have all the sides done by Wednesday night and leave the Turkey for last.

Today, I started my workout routine... did 30 minutes on treadmill. It's almost the end of the night for me and guess what... :)

I still have flex points left!

I usually run out by the end of the weekend. I'm not going to weigh-in next week... my regular day to weigh-in is on Thursday so that means Thursday (Thanksgiving) I'll have a fresh new set of points to work with... my next weigh-in is promising...

Once I get organized I'll be posting my Thanksgiving Menu and it's Points Value.

Well, I've better get going now... for all the Holiday Challengers... remember Tuesday is check in... make sure to comment here, the yahoo group, or email me your weight directly... dietsodadivaATyahooDOTcom.

Holiday Eating and Exercising

'Nothing exceeds like excess," observed Al Pacino's character in the movie "Scarface." When it comes to healthful eating, holidays seem to have a monopoly on post-celebratory condemnation. What we all need is a "get-out-of-jail-free card" for all of the guilt we pile on ourselves! It is possible to reconnect with the fun of food and holiday fetes without feeling as if we should beach ourselves at the shores of the closest reservoir. Thanks to fitness writer Suzanne Schlosberg and Minneapolis lifestyle coach Kate Larsen for the following ideas and suggestions:

- Don't deny yourself or skip meals. If you watch others enjoying food and drink while nibbling on a rice cake, you will go bonkers and overindulge later. Go ahead and enjoy small portions of all the goodies. Also, it is unwise to skip meals in order to save up for the big feast. Eat some healthful foods before the party.


- Move. No, you don't have to organize a post-feast marathon around the neighborhood; but throughout the holidays, set yourself up to do more walking. In the mall, walk through and check out all the stores before shopping; take after-dinner walks; park a few blocks from the shops; organize walks at lunch with co-workers. Movement gives us a sense of control and helps us maintain some of our conditioning. Walking also provides some stress control. Post-holiday, when you get back into your normal routine, you won't feel so defeated.

- Avoid temptation. The office is a spider's web of overindulgence during holidays. Take a more healthful alternative to work so that high-calorie snack breaks are minimized

- Take smaller portions, eat slowly, and stop when satisfied. Try smaller helpings of a variety of foods. Try some foods that are unfamiliar so that you will concentrate on flavor rather than just wolfing it all down in one gulp. Enjoy conversation while eating to slow things down; try speaking a complete sentence between bites. Finally, when you are full, stop. This is not as easy as it sounds, but if you eat half of what is on your plate and take a short break, you may be surprised to find you don't want any more food.


- Go easy on the alcohol. Alcohol stimulates the appetite and numbs your reserve. Alcohol is metabolized in the liver. Once the liver is engaged, blood sugar drops, which stimulates hunger.


- Get your sleep. Shopping, travel, social engagements, family stress — too often all of this exhaustion comes across as a need for energy (calories) when what is really needed is rest.


- Celebrate the holiday spirit. Pay more attention to relationships with friends and family than to food. Stay involved in social interactions and conversations so that mindless munching doesn't become the focal point.


- Don't strive for perfection. Instead of trying to maintain the pre-holiday health routine, stay flexible. Plan on being 80 percent healthy instead of 100 percent. Maintain a consistency with your normally healthful eating and exercise habits, but don't make yourself crazy trying to adhere to high standards. Have fun and enjoy these annual indulgences without beating yourself up in the process.

- After the holidays, you should be able to look back and reflect on the fun. Did you enjoy or just survive? Enjoyment is far more important. We can always get back on a healthful eating and exercise schedule. Time spent feeling guilty and miserable is lost forever.

By Linda Buch Oakland Tribune Correspondent Originally Posted: http://www.insidebayarea.com/search/ci_10986923?IADID=Search-www.insidebayarea.com-www.insidebayarea.com

A Gain? WTF!?

For the past 4 weigh-ins I've stayed the same 183.2, 183.2, 183.0 and this week it was 183.6. Double Wammy, not only did I stay at 183.something I had a gain! WTF?! I did pretty good with my points and my water. This is frustrating.

But I'm not going to give up. The Holiday Challenge just started and I refuse to give up. I got journaling down, water down... now my focus is going to be exercising and following the guide for healthy living... getting enough fruits/oils/proteins everyday.

I'm changing up my breakfast... everyday I have a Weight Watcher's Shake... this week I'm going to have real food for breakfast and have the shake (required dairy) some other time in the day.

Yesterday, I got all my water in, 2 fruits and both oils. No dairy.

Today I'm going to do even better... I'm going to have more fruits and vegetables. Today, I've had a cup of carrots so far... that's 1 down and 4 more to go.

Next week, due to the holiday - I'm not going to be able to weigh-in until the day after Thanksgiving... F^$* that! I'm not going to weigh-in the day after I'm most-likely to use a lot, if not all of my flex points... hell no! I've already had a big blow to my self-esteem by having my first gain this week... I don't need a 2nd blow the following week. So I'm waiting until December 4th to weigh-in.

These two weeks I'm going to work on getting more workouts in and eating more veggies/fruits and also getting my needed oils in. I think I'm going to go back and read my Weight Watchers Book 1 - Week 1 handout again.

This week I need to sit down and get busy writing out my Thanksgiving Menu... I've decided to get totally Weight Watchery on Thanksgiving... offering my family a healthier/lighter meal. I don't think my mother's crazy about the idea... and neither is Vi... but so what. I'm not trying to get crazy over the holidays and I'm the one that's going to be busting my butt in the kitchen doing all the cooking.

Well, that's my rant for the day... I might be posting some healthy, points-friendly Thanksgiving recipes tomorrow and early next week.

Happy Losing...

Did I What?

It's the holiday season and aside from great high point foods comes nosy relatives/family friends with no tact that think it's okay to ask questions like: When do you plan on getting married? Do you plan on having more children? Are you STILL in school? Or the worse... Have you gained weight?

For me a 32 year old single mother... if Mr.Right would of already proposed to me... don't you think I'd be married by now?! DUH!? More children? With who? Or do you expect for me to add a baby to plate along with raising a teenage daughter, caring for a crazy old mother, full time work, and school? WTF?

Anyway, I was reading an article a few weeks back in the Oakland Tribune that addressed what to answer in these situations... I thought I'd share one of them with you... what to answer when you're asked: Have you gained/lost weight?

Here's some answers you can give:
- Yes, I have.
- I was hoping nobody would notice.
- Yes/No, Same old diet roller coaster.
- (Lost) I had a 12-year old surgically removed from m back last week.
- (Gained) I just started buying pants that make my butt look big.
- (My favorite) Why do you want to know?

Some of these answers might work at your holiday table... some might get you in a bit of trouble... depending on who's asking and who's table you're at... lol Good Luck this holiday season.

Day 1, PreWeigh-in and All That Good Stuff...

This hasn't been one of my best weeks but I'm hanging in there... and still have hope for a loss.

Yesterday was the first day of the challenge. I didn't do as good as I wanted. I went over my points by 9! Only got half my water in and wasn't able to exercise in the morning like I had planned.

I got up at 5:14am got my workout clothes on. I was pumped ready to go... then I couldn't find my running shoes. They were hiding...

The upside to yesterday,I did go over 9 points - well there is no upside to that, but on the other hand I did have extra water this week so that sort of makes up for yesterday's lack of water. My day was pretty busy so morning time was my only chance to get on the threadmill - but I did get lots of walking in, including walking a mile up a mountain to get to my daughter's school - on the street/dirt/grass. They don't have sidewalks up there. It took me 30 minutes to get up there, by the time I got there I was ready to let myself fall on their front lawn.

Tomorrow is weigh-in and today's a new day! So far so good... I'm with in my points. I've been getting on the scale it still says 183.something. I hope that's not the case tomorrow... if so I'll just have to try a different approach. I'll really have to get tough and make a menu for the week.

The scale is working my nerves but I'm gonna be patient. I have a feeling something is happening, even if the scale doesn't want to say.

I use to have these favorite pair of low-rise jeans. I wore them all the time, until they got didn't want to rise anymore. I could get them on, but my butt and belly would hangout when I sat down. I stopped wearing them... but for whatever reason never threw them out.

This morning, running late with no clean clothes I went in my closet and grabbed a pair of jeans not knowing which ones they were. They didn't feel familar, the jeans were falling off. No falling off because my butt and belly were pushing them off... but falling off because they were too big. I checked in the mirror, and they were my old jeans! I was happy they fit again... I thought they fit perfect now... my butt and stomach were staying in... but as I got moving and finished getting ready I realized I couldn't leave with out a belt... they kept slipping down to my hips! That was a good feeling.

As I mentioned before I was running late this morning, so another morning with out a workout - but as soon as I get home I'm jumping on the treadmill... I made it a point to find my shoes before I went to bed last night.

DietSodaDiva's Holiday Challengers

On your mark, get set, GGGGOOOOOOO!!!!!!!! And we're off! DietSodaDiva's Official Holiday Challenge has started. We have 50 days to reach our goals. And get through the holidays on program. Check in with us weekly to see our progress!

Name: Amy
Blog: http://onemoretimediva.blogspot.com
50 Day Goal: TBA

Name: Brittney
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/SmileWithUrHeart
50 Day Goal: Lose 16.5 pounds

Name: Hollie L.
Blog: http://skinnyhollie.com
Location: Tennessee
50 Day Goal: Lose 10 Pounds

Name: Jen
Blog: http://pabstfamilyjs.blogspot.com/
50 Day Goal: Lose 20 Pounds

Name: Kelly S.
Location: Wisconsin
50 Day Goal: Lose 20 Pounds

Name: Krista
50 Day Goal: 15 Pounds

Name: Lisa
Blog: http://senseieyes.blogspot.com/
50 Day Goal: Lose 10 Pounds

Name:Rosie
Blog:http://dietsodadiva.com
Location: California
50 Day Goal: Lose 12 Pounds

Name: Sars
Blog: http://runsarsrun.blogspot.com
50 Day Goal: Lose 13 Pounds

Name: Shelly
50 Day Goal: Lose 16.2 Pounds

If for some reason your information hasn't been included and you would like to participate please email me asap... also if anything is incorrect or information you do not want shared please also email me asap I will make sure to change it or take it down.

It's The Last Dance, It's Your Last Chance...

Okay it's not the last dance... or your chance to lose weight... but it is your last chance to join in all the festive fun going on around here... your last chance to join DIETSODADIVA'S HOLIDAY CHALLENGE!

It officially starts tomorrow! So you have until midnight to contact me and let me know you're in.

If you haven't already - there is still time to join! Just email me your information and I'll add you to the list. Information I would like is the following:

Name - Of course we need to know what to address you as.
Nickname if any - if you would prefer to be referred to as that
Blog Address if any - so we can add a link to the challengers post, anyone who visits this blog and follow your progress on your blog.
Current Weight - to know your start weight.
Address - I plan on mailing out certificates and possibly prizes one the challenge is over, regardless if you make it to your challenge goal.
Before Picture - nice to see a before and after picture for comparison.
50 Day Goal - to know what your aiming for.
Biggest Challenge Staying On Program - so we can get an idea of how we can help you stay on track.
Suggestions, Ideas for This Challenge, For Other Challenges... if any. Feedback is always welcome.

Minimal information I really need for you to participate:

Name
Current Weight
50 Day Goal

All or any information that you do not want posted on DietSodaDiva.com please let me know - I will respect your wishes and not post it. You don't even need your name posted to participate in this challenge.

I think that's it... tomorrow morning I'll be making the Official Challenger Entry posting pictures weigh goals, etc...

Get ready people to see a whole lot less of us in the new year!

Happy Losing...

DWLZ.COM

I can't believe I haven't told you about 'Dotti's Weight Loss Zone' before. It's a kick ass website with all kinds of great information... it's privately owned by Dotti and ran by her and her husband. It's years and years of Weight Watcher's stuff lists, recipes, etc... all in one site. I use and find that site more useful than WeightWatchers.com. I think she also has a forum, but I've never joined... I might check it out one day. I guess I've never told you about it because I use assume everyone already knows about it... but recently I realized new to Weight Watcher's people might not have heard of it yet...

Dotti Rocks! And her site is def a Weight Watcher classic... if you're following the program she's a must see...

This sounds like a commercial for DWLZ but I swear I AM NOT A PAID ACTOR! Just an admirer.

Anyway... the link is http://dwlz.com

A Cold and Being Overweight Connected?

Is it true that being overweight can raise my rick of catching a cold?

Possibly. Extra pounds can weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off illness. And if you do get sick, you're more likely than someone at a healthy weight to develop complications, such as bronchitis or pneumonia. The good news? You can boost your immune system with exercise. One study found that womn who take a 45-minute walk 5 days a week are 3 times less likely to geet a cold than women who don't work out. But should you exercise when you're sick? It's safe to work out when you have a cold, but not when you have flu symptoms, such as body aches and chills.

Taken from Weight Watcher's Magazine November/December 2008 Issue

It's A New Day

Yesterday, what was I thinking? I used up 27 of my flex points. Those are suppose to be saved for the weekend! Now I only have about 8 to use over the weekend. Good thing for exercise... I think I'll do an hour of cardio both Saturday and Sunday that'll earn me about 3 extra points per day if I go at medium intensity. Actually 3.59 I'm tempted to round it up to 4 but naw, I'll stick to the 3 points.

I've been under a lot of stress, and I think stress causes me to snack and snack and snack. Yesterday, I had everything from cheese sticks to chocolate dipped tootsie rolls! Definitely not a balanced day, the only
good thing I did yesterday was added 3 more cups of water to my regular 6.

The great thing about today is... today is a new day!

I'm back in control and on track this morning. I got on the scale and it said 182... even though my scale is always off from Weight Watcher's it's still nice to see it go down or at least move. I don't want to spend another week at 183. I'm hoping the extra water flushes out some of this weight. Could happen... right?

I need to remember to pack my workout clothes to take with me to Ross this evening. Tueday's the start of the challenge, so I'm not going to workout on Monday to give myself a day of rest before the challenge starts. I am pumped about this! I'm aiming to do 60 minutes of cardio 5 days a week... that would be 15 activity points a week... if I go at medium speed. Now, if I speed it up it'll be 8 points per workout. (YOOHHHOOOO! I could use those 8 points.) I think what I'll do is start one week at medium speed then do 15 minutes of faster speed and 45 at medium and every week move up slowly until I'm doing a full hour on a high intensity level. I don't want to overwork myself or worse injure myself.

Well, I've better get going now. I wish you all a losing weekend on program and chat with you soon...

DAMN YOU ONE-EIGHTY-THREE!

I seem to be stuck at the same weight for the past three weeks... for two weeks I was 183.2 then today I weighted in again the same, but then noticed the scale was off balance... so the leader re-weighed me and I was 183.0 aaggghhhh still 183.something! aaaggghhh! It's very frustrating but since I blogged my food journal I realized this past week I lived on Weight Watcher shakes, cheese sticks, and Fiber One bars! Not a very balance.

This week, especially with the challenge starting Tuesday I'm going to work on balancing my food better, getting more oils in, and drinking more than my required water. I think now that I've sort of plateaued I'm going to start taking measurements too, but just of my waist - that's where I'm most concerned.

I already started the DietSodaDiva Challenge yahoo group... so if you send me your information to join the challenge, you should of already gotten an invitation... of not please contact me here or by email ASAP so I can get that sent right away.

I'm excited about the Challenge finally starting... aren't you?

Feeling A Little Blah...

I'm feeling a little blah today. I think it's a mixture of everything; the weather, what's going on in my life right now, and not having a loss last week... I just feel blah.

Tomorrow is weigh-in, and I'm sort of whatever about it. I've done pretty good this week I got more oils and exercise in then I have in the past... which is a good thing. I should have a loss but I'm not nervous, excited, or worried about it like I usually am.

I'm going to stick to my points today, finish my water, and try to get a good nights sleep...

I didn't post my Monday's Food Journal yesterday because I did a video entry (hope you all enjoyed the video)... so I'll be posting both Monday and Tuesday's Food Journal today:

Monday
1 Weight Watchers Chocolate Shake Mix - 2pt
1 Cup Fat Free Milk - 2pt
1 Smart One's Chocolate-Chocolate Chip Muffin - 4pt
1 Fiber One Bar - 2pt
1 Lean Cruisine Ranch Flat Bread Sandwich - 7pt
1 Fiber One Bar - 2pt
1 Blackberry Yogurt - 2pt
Pizza - 7pt
1/2 Lean Cruisine Steak Sandwich - 3pt
Cake Crumbs - 2pt
Celery - 0pt
EXERCISE POINTS +3pt
-------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL - 31pt


Tuesday
Monday
1 Fiber One Bar - 2pt
1 Weight Watchers Chocolate Shake Mix - 2pt
1 Cup Fat Free Milk - 2pt
2 Cheese Sticks - 4pt
2 Fiber One Bar - 4pt
1 Fiber One Bar - 2pt
1 Fiber One Bar - 2pt
1 Cheese Sticks - 2pt
1 Cheese Sticks - 2pt
Weight Watcher's Garden Vegetable Soup 2 Cups - 0pt
1 Cheese Sticks - 2pt
1 Pear - 1pt
2 Servings of Pineapple - 3pt
EXERCISE POINTS +6
-----------------------------------------------------
TOTAL - 27pt

Yesterday, I should was loving Cheese Sticks and Fiber One bars! Today I'm going to try to have a little more balance. Yesterday, I worked out a full hour plus went for a walk to the store. Today I didn't get up early enough to work out, but I'm going to try to get at least 30 minutes in today. I need it... the stress is building, good thing is usually I love the binge when I'm stressed - this time as soon as I thought about binging I remembered my points and I would have to put everything in my journal. I remembered I already went crazy with the cake on Friday so I don't have enough points to binge... thinking about Weight Watcher's and keeping up my journal helped me move my thoughts away from eating.

On to other news... Tuesday's the day... DIETSODADIVA'S HOLIDAY CHALLENGE starts! Are you excited? For those of you who are participating you should of already gotten an invite email from me to join the Challenge yahoo group... if you didn't get one please email me asap and I'll send you a link to join.

I'm super excited about this. I started exercising this week so I'll be in the mode by Tuesday. I also went to the store yesterday and picked up a few things to start getting prize packages together. They didn't have what I was looking for - but I still have time to get it together. Ideally, I would like to send everyone a little something for making it through the challenge... I just might be able to do it because right now there's under 10 of us.

I feel great about the challenge. It's really going to help having that extra support to stay accountable during the best food time of the year.

The invitation to join the challenge is still open... so if you're interested drop me an email at dietsodadivaATyahooDOTcom.

Weight Watcher's Vegetable Ssssssoup

Happy, Happy Monday

Next week DietSodaDiva's Holiday Challenge starts, so I decided to be proactive and start working out now... so that when the challenge starts I'll be semi-conditioned to workout everyday.

I got up this morning earlier than usual and got my butt on the treadmill for 30 minutes. I did 30 minutes of powerwalking, and walked a distance of 1.83 mile(s)... which is odd but I walked my weight. I walked 1.83 and I weighed 183 my last weigh-in.

Anyway... I think this week I'm gonna do good. I got on the scale this morning and I weighed in at 182.5 which means I'm down .7 from my last official weigh-in. I'm expecting to be down about a pound on Thursday. I'm excited... that means if I'm down a pound I'll only have 11 more pounds to lose during the challenge.

My challenge goal is going to be to have a total loss of 25 pounds... but I'm gonna try real hard to get there by Christmas (a week early).

I am pumped and excited about the Challenge, about staying on the Weight Watcher's wagon, about exercising, and the holidays.

Exercising this morning really woke me up... I feel alive and happy. Why didn't I think about working out in the morning before?

I might be making another video tomorrow... I have an idea and hopefully it works out. I'll also probably be creating the Challenge yahoo group today... I'll be sending you all invitations.

Well, here's what I had yesterday (didn't hit my quotas - but I did stay within points):

2 Corn Tortillas - 2pt
3 Egg Whites - 1pt
1 Egg White/2 Slices of Thinly Sliced Sandwich Ham/3TBS of Salsa - 1pt
1 Fiber One Bar - 2pt
1 Cheese Stick - 2pt
1 Fiber One Bar - 2pt
1 Cup Fat Free Milk - 2pt
1 Weight Watcher's Chocolate Shake Mix - 1pt
4 Slices of Thinly Sliced pizza - 14pt
2 Slices of Thinly Sliced Sandwich Ham - 1pt
EXERCISE 75 MINUTES SLOW WALK +3pt
---------------------------------------------
TOTAL - 25pt

I make it through the weekend on points! Now for the rest of the week I don't have to suffer by cutting my daily points down... yyeeaaahhh!!!!! I feel GREAT!

I Made It!

I didn't hit all my fruit and Veggies, etc quotas... but I did stay with in my points this weekend! Well, I still have a few more hours until bedtime... but I think I'm going to make it!

I also got on the scale this morning and found that I'm .2 lighter - it's not much but it's motivating! I got 75 minutes of walking in today. We walked to the local Goodwill... now that I'm on a losing streak I don't want to spend too much money on new clothes since I'll be leaving them behind soon. I've been doing a lot of secondhand shopping lately. After that Vi and I walked to the grocery store and then walked to meet my mother for pizza. After dinner we walked home.

Here's what I had yesterday:
3 Egg Whites - 1pt
Cheap Lunch Meat Ham/Salsa - 1pt
2 TSP Oil Canola - 2pt
6 Cheese Sticks - 12pt
3 Fiber One Bars - 6pt
1 Cheese Stick - 2pt
1 Weight Watchers Chocolate Shake - 1pt
1 Cup Fat-Free Milk - 2pt
Exercise Slow Walk 50 Minutes +2
---------------------------------------
TOTAL - 25pt!

Yesterday, I was sure loving my Cheese Sticks... huh.

Back to the secondhand... I brought a belt that was M/L lately especially this year I've only been able to buy XL... I also brought a Large button down sweater that a couple of months ago wouldn't have fit me... little by little, more and more I'm starting to fit into more and more larges... this feels GREAT. I love it! Total NSV!

So, how did you do this weekend?

It's Saturday

I think staying the same this week has gotten me a little bumped. I'm motivated to lose weight but I'm drawing a blank on what foods to eat. I think I need to go through some of my old journals and see what I had those days... I lost 6 pounds in week one... I'm go see if I have my journal from that week.

Yesterday, I lost control with cake... today I've had 6 cheese sticks and 3 fiber one bars. I'm down to 5 points for the rest of the day. I think I'll do a shake and focus on getting some veggies in. Tomorrow's a new day. It's already close to dinner time and I haven't even finished my first three cups of water yet. Bad me...

Here's my journal for yesterday. I was bad... oh so bad...:
1 Fiber One Bar - 2pt
1 Weight Watchers Chocolate Shake Mix - 2pt
1 Cup Fat Free Milk - 2pt
1 Serving Strawberry Yogurt - 2pt
1 Fiber One Bar - 2pt
1 Servings of Frozen Corn - 4pt
Butter Spray - 0pt
Smart One's Peanut Butter Sundae - 3pt
1 Plum - 1pt
1 Fiber One Bar - 2pt
2 Egg Rolls - 13pt
Pineapple Cake - 9pt
Lemon Cake - 19pt

Exercised slow 24 minutes +1pt
-------------------------------
TOTAL - 59pt used 34 Flex Points

I didn't get my oils in, only a few of my fruits/veggies. I did however finish all my water and milk.

I was doing so good until that patient came with homemade egg rolls and 1/2 cakes for each of us made from scratch... darn that woman!

Today's a new day but I still feel blah and unmotivated. I'll make it through today on program, not sure I'll get all my veggies in, I did get all my oils in... and I'll get my dairy and milk in. But most importantly I will stay with in my points today. I refuse to go over my points this weekend...

I'm going to go look for my week one QuikTrak journal and see what I ate that week to do so good. I'll be back tomorrow to update you on how I did today.

I did it!

I did it! Yesterday was my first day going Back 2 Basics... I got both servings of oil in, all my veggies, milk and water! I also stayed with in my points!

It wasn't that hard. I just kept an eye on what I was marking off at the bottom of my tracker.

Here's my intake journal for yesterday:
1 Footlong Roasted Chicken Sandwich (Subway) - 12pt
2 tsp Olive Oil - 2 pt
2 Fiber One Bars - 4pt
1 Weight Watcher's Chocolate Shake Mix - 1pt
1 cup Fat Free Milk - 2pt
3 cups of Carrots - 0
1/4 cup fresh lime juice/salt - 0
----------------------------------
Total - 25pt

I'm aiming to do the same today. Except I won't be spending 12 points on a sandwich. I did however spread that sandwich out over the course of a few hours.

I think I'll post my journal this whole week... after that it might become too repetious and also takes up time I could be looking up recipes or something.

It's Friday! I hope you all enjoy your weekend! DietSodaDiva's Holiday Challenge starts in 10 days! So if you haven't gotten your information to me do so asap. I'll be setting up categories and stuff possibly this weekend. Also the Challenge yahoo group should be set up this next week. I didn't want to create it too soon. I'm excited about this.

At first I was aiming to be at 20 pounds by Christmas, but I think I'm going to aim for 25 pounds... that means I have 7 weeks to lose exactly 12 pounds... that's a little under 2 pounds a week. I should start exercising this week - shouldn't I. Ross is going to start his program the same day we start the Challenge. He's not overweight, he's focusing on toning up and losing that extra little body fat he's claims he has.

This weekend we wanted to make homemade tortillas, menudo, and biscocitos... but we're going to hold off on getting carried away and make only one of those, probably the menudo. Or maybe a Weight Watcher's dessert. He feels he's gained this week... he stayed the same weight wise but says his body fat went up...

It feels so good to be back on program and having the support I need really helps. Even though I'm not anywhere near my goal weight, I feel good... I don't cringe that much anymore when I look in mirror. I'm already starting to feel better about myself.

Okay, now I think I'm babbling - so it's time to sign off for the day. Happy Friday and I wish you all a losing weekend!

Back 2 Basics

I weighed in today, and stayed exactly the same.

Instead of feeling discouraged I'm still inspired by Tuesday... so it's back to basics for me. Lately I've been really splurging over the weekends and try to make up for it on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday before my weigh-in, this week I did the same thing with the water.

Yesterday, I drank 18 glasses of water. The day before that I had 12... I need to get my food and water in check and organized. I also need to add oils and more exercise.

There's about one more week until DietSodaDiva's Holiday Challenge begins - I want to start it on the right foot... so this week I'm going to tighten my tracker up and make some intake improvements... I might start posting my journal also - to keep me accountable.

So far today I'm doing okay... I get 25 points a day, and so far I've had 20 - so I might have some veggies and a Weight Watcher's shake for dinner. I'm going to try not to use any of my flex points until this weekend... I even had my oil intake for the day. I need to have three more fruits or veggies, the shake will cover the milk and water I've had about two servings. I think I'll hit all my food quotas for the day... yeeaahhh me!

TOGETHER WE CAN...!

Last night was amazing. The media announced our soon to be 44th president... my guy, Barack Obama!

(I'm going to keep this short and non-political as possible...) Barack Obama is a man who reached not only his goals last night, but also filled the dreams of many minority Americans in the United States.

Against many odds - not just in this presidential race, but also in his life he will now be living his dream. If an ordinary man can accomplish what he has at such a young age, that is very inspiring and motivating for me to continue working toward not only my educational and career goals but also my weight loss goals.

If a minority kid from Kansas can grow up to be President of the United States... one of the most powerful countries in the world - I can shed these 60-something pounds!

It's the eve of my weigh-in and this hasn't been a horrible week - nor the best... but I'm excited and motivated and want to hurry and get on that scale. I can do this, even if I just have a tiny loss or no loss at all week. I have found new inspirations, a new surge of motivation, I want this and I can do this, I can and will reach my goals.

And guess what... SO CAN YOU!

Weight Loss Stifficulties

Holidays Here We Come...

1 Holiday down... 3 major ones to go...

For me my birthday is the pre-gateway to the Holiday Season and Halloween is the gateway... I'm officially in the Holiday Season! It's time to start thinking about my holiday menus. What am I going to make for Thanksgiving? Turkey of course... what about the sides?

Christmas - a two day celebration for me... What to cook? What to bake?

New Years... the eve if full of good foods, but the actual day is starting program all over and straight and narrow.

I did okay on my birthday. I made it through that week with a loss. Halloween... I've had worse weeks so I have to say for the 'candy' holiday and weekend I did pretty good. I went over 12 points and used up all my flex points. I'll make those up before Thursday. It's been raining here, so there's no walking outside - I might have to hop on the treadmill sometime this week.

I do all the cooking at my house for Thanksgiving, so that meal will be pretty controlled. The only problem is that I'll be having two Thanksgiving meals. An early one at my house, and a second one at Ross' mother's. So here's my plan. Usually by the time I get done cooking I'm too tired to even sit down and enjoy my meal. I'll make the turkey and only a few sides. A carb (okay maybe two with the rolls), a veggie, cranberry sauce, and a dessert. Maybe I'll toss a salad too. I'll have a good amount of points to spent at my BFM's house.

Christmas - she's making Tamales - and I told Ross that I can go help her with those. I won't cook on Christmas Eve. Growing up Christmas Eve wasn't really celebrated at my house until mid-night. My mother and grandmother use to spend the day shopping and dropping off other's gifts. I'll do cooking for Christmas at my place.

I asked my mother if she had any ideas. She said Chicken Mole, and Vi wants to make Tribal Taco's which won't be a lot of cooking. I don't want to do the traditional Turkey or Tamales this year. I wanted to try something different. If I make Tamales at my house I won't have ANY control. I LOVE TAMALES! So along with the Chicken Mole and Tribal Taco's... I'll make a salad and dessert.

I'm tempted to use WW recipes for my holiday desserts this year. To take to my BFM's house since she follows WW too, I think I'll make regular cookies and a WW dessert for her. She'd like that.

I think it's a good idea to start thinking about the holidays early and having a plan of attack - or non-attack on the food we'll be cooking or being served. For the meals I'm making before I make them I'll be figuring out points to be on the safe side.

On to other non-holiday news. I'll be working on and hopefully have a new video posted tomorrow. Tomorrow is also another big day for me. I'll be voting for the first time. I'm excited, this is a very important election. Not just for the presidential candidates but also for the propositions that are on the ballots. So if you haven't already... get out there and vote. You're vote does count!


DietSodaDiva's Holiday Challenge is starting in less then 2 weeks. Ladies are you excited? So far we have 7 Challengers. Here's who they are:

Hollie L. (need your info)
Amy S. (need your info)
Richelle
Krista (need your info)
Jen
Lisa
Rosie B. (me)

Ladies, you'll be hearing from me this week. I'll be emailing you invites for the Holiday Challenge Yahoo Group I'm creating. It'll be just the 7 of use where we can better keep each other accountable.

If you haven't already - there is still time to join! Just email me your information and I'll add you to the list. Information I would like is the following:

Name - Of course we need to know what to address you as.
Nickname if any - if you would prefer to be referred to as that
Blog Address if any - so we can add a link to the challengers post, anyone who visits this blog and follow your progress on your blog.
Current Weight - to know your start weight.
Address - I plan on mailing out certificates and possibly prizes one the challenge is over, regardless if you make it to your challenge goal.
Before Picture - nice to see a before and after picture for comparison.
50 Day Goal - to know what your aiming for.
Biggest Challenge Staying On Program - so we can get an idea of how we can help you stay on track.
Suggestions, Ideas for This Challenge, For Other Challenges... if any. - because feedback is always welcome.

Minimal information I really need for you to participate:

Name
Current Weight
50 Day Goal

All or any information that you do not want posted on DietSodaDiva.com please let me know - I will respect your wishes and not post it. You don't even need your name posted to participate in this challenge.

Well... I think I've ran my fingers long enough this morning. I wish you all a losing day and week. Chat with you soon...

Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie

Makes 2 servings

Ingredients:

2 cups ice cubes
1 banana, sliced
1/2 cup low-fat (1%) milk
1 Tbsp smooth peanut butter
1 squirt chocolate syrup

In a blender, combine all ingredients; puree until smooth.
Pour into a tall, chilled glass.

POINTS: 3

PER SERVING: 135 Calories, 5 g Total Fat, 1 g Saturated Fat,
2 mg Cholesterol, 72 mg Sodium, 20 g Total Carbohydrate,
2 g Dietary Fiber, 5 g Protein, 82 mg Calcium

Quickies That Are Good...

Quickies That Are Yummy

Sometimes life is a balancing act for me. I have to juggle everything on my plate, doing this - sometimes neccessties become luxuaries like having time to cook.

Being on Weight Watchers cooking is somewhat of a neccessity unless you don't mind living on prepackaged meals. I don't mind prepackaged here and there, but I can't do it everyday... so lately I've been trying to come up with quick and easy (healthy) things I can throw together to eat, for either a snack or meal.

Here are two I came up with over the weekend... and as I think of more I'll be sharing them here.

- This can either be for Breakfast or a mid-morning snack. Three scrambled egg whites cooked using cooking and butter spray. Served with a bit of Old El Paso Chunky Salsa... so good and only 1 point! The salsa is about 10-15 calories per serving you can count it as a point if you like... I don't if I use just a serving. (MEAL OR SNACK 1 POINT)

- I didn't use to be a rice person especially spanish rice, but my boyfriend is a big spanish rice person - I think it's starting to rub off on me. Mix 1 cup spanish rice, 2 oz of chopped up chicken, a serving of El Paso Chunky Salsa... Mmm so good! (MEAL 7 POINTS)

That's all I have for now... but I'll be posting more soon.

Happy Halloween

I hope you all are enjoying the day and keeping on program. Yesterday, I got fully prepared. I brought Fiber One Bars, Smart One Chocolate Muffins and yogurt. I brought the yogurt with me, I already had the muffins here but I forgot one of the most important things! My Fiber One Bars to have in place of candy.

Oh well, I'll deal. As soon as my boss got here she handed me a handful of mini chocolate bars just for me. I actually did good. I put them away in my desk drawer (I usually don't sit at that desk)... I'm try to save them for a rainy day.

I get 25 points, so far I've used up 9. I'm making Carne Asada for Dinner with all the fixings, so I know I'll be dipping into my flex points tonight. So far the cupcakes or candy haven't been tempting - which is a good thing.

Well, I hope you all have a Safe and Happy, OP Hallween!

L is for LLLLLOOOSSSEEERRR!!!!

Today was weigh-in... and I'm down 1.6! Which puts me at a 13 pound loss!!! I'm super excited. 2 more pounds and I'll be at my 15 pound mark, and after that I'll be reaching for my 10% goal!!!

I am now the same weight I was when I was 17 years old 04/20/04, the day before I went into labor (40 weeks pregnant)... lol. Crazy huh, I remember freaking out then when I got on the scale because I was so close to 200... now when I got on the scale and seen 183 I was doing my victory dance... funny how things work.

I'm excited to be losing. I feel really motivated and back on track today. Tomorrow's Halloween and I think I'm prepared for it... I brought Fiber One Bars today to have when everyone else is having candy. I also brought Smart One's Chocolate Muffins when everyone else is having cupcakes and whatever other high point foods my boss brings in for them. I should do fine tomorrow.

Did I tell you about my coat? I thrifted a coat on my birthday that is a bit too small for me... my goal is to get into it by Christmas... so getting into that coat to me is more important and will bring more satisfaction than a candy bar.

Another video should be coming soon... should by up sometime next week... the 4th will be my 2 month anniversary... I'm proud of myself for sticking to this.

It's Wednesday

I'm feeling much better today. Even though tomorrow's weigh-in I'm okay about it. I feel back in control. I think I get a little nutty when I go over on the weekend then have to make up for it the rest of the week. Friday's Halloween, but unless we go out to a club I should be okay with my points. Halloween isn't really a dinning holiday. Vi is going to her BFF's house, and Ross' kids will be with their mother... that means I will be able to steer clear of the trick-or-treating candy.

My boss wants to do a little something for our patients. I think I'll make cupcakes to bring in, which I should be okay with... once I set them out for the patients and they start in on them I won't touch them. I'm finicky about my food and who's around it. Which is a good thing, it'll prevent me from walking back and forth to the waiting room shoving cupcakes in my mouth.

I got on the scale this morning and it said I'm down .8... which is a little annoying because that means I won't move to the next number down on the scale... oh please scale goddess will you please let me be down at least .10? I'm expecting a loss, that's all I know... my scale is a little wonky, I'll weigh myself at home - it'll say one thing. Then I'll get to Weight Watchers and either I'll be lower in weight or higher then what my scale says. My scale - it has a mind of it's own.

Is It Thursday Yet?

Today was a big struggle. I think it's my stress level and TOM's visit that has me wanting to shove everything I shouldn't in my mouth. I'm craving JUNK, JUNK, JUNK! I gave into some of my cravings like Cheese Puffs, I never eat those... what's the matter with me?

I think I need to go to Walgreens in the morning and pick up some more Fiber One Bars, those will keep me away from all the Halloween chocolate my boss has at the office. I've been out of Fiber One Bars all week... it's been a struggle for me.

I made it through the day, catching up on all my water - got some exercise in... I should have a decent loss. I got one more day until weigh-in, I can do this! I CAN DO THIS! I WILL DO THIS!

Zero Point Soup

Zero Point Soup 2/3 cup diced carrot
1/2 cup diced onion
2 garlic cloves, minced
3 cups fat-free broth ( beef, chicken or veggie)
1 1/2 cups diced green cabbage
1/2 cup green beans
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 cup diced zucchini
1. In large sauce pan sprayed with nonstick cooking spray, sauté the carrot, onion and garlic over low heat until softened, about five minutes.

2. Add broth, cabbage, beans, tomato paste, basil, oregano, and salt, bring to a boil. Lower heat and simmer, covered for about 15 minutes or until beans are tender.


3. Stir in zucchini and heat 3-4 minutes. Serve hot, Makes four 1 cup servings.


Calories: 42 Per Serving
Fat: 0G
Fiber: 2G

FREAK OUT!

I need to get a grip... for some reason I feel totally off... I feel like splurging, I have no willpower. I want sugar, sugar, sugar! Yesterday I went crazy and had 4 cupcakes... I need to stay away from cupcakes... today I can still save the day... I have 13 points left.

So far I've had:

1 Reese's Cup - 2 pt
1 Cupcake - 6pt
I'm counting a 1/2 Tamale but I actually had it yesterday but ran out of points yesterday so I'm counting it for today. So that's 2 pts.
As soon as I'm done here I'm having a WW Shake with 1 cup fat free milk so that's another 3pts.

I went for a 20 minute walk so I earned a point. So that leaves me with 13 points left.

Okay, now that I wrote that out I feel a little better. I think I need to catch up on my water and just try to calm down. All week my water has been off. I don't know why but I feel anxious. TOM is here so that might have something to do with it.

(pause: taking deep breaths)

On to funner news... Diet Soda Diva's Holiday Challenge - 2008! So far there are five of us pledging to stay on program through out the holidays.... anyone else wanna join us? We're going to do this and kick butt during the holiday season. I'm excited. Ideally, I want to get together some nice little packages to mail out to the particpates once the challenge is over or maybe even during the challenge. I don't want to say too much until I have everything together. But for sure the real prize is the weight we're going to get rid of!

I just realized I'm less then 3 pounds away from my 15 pound mark. Then after that I'll be at my 10%. Thinking of these things gets me motivated. I'm excited now...

Diet Soda Cake

1 box cake mix - any flavor
1 can diet soda - any flavor

Variations I've seen:
chocolate cake w/ diet coke
yellow cake w/ diet lemon-lime
use your imagination for the combinations! Oh the possibilities!


Mix the dry cake mix with 10-12 oz of diet soda. (Do not use the egg or oil listed
on the box). Spray a 9 x 12 cake pan (or cupcake tin) with non-stick spray and
bake according to package instructions.

Some have said an entire can of pop makes the cake TOO moist ... 10 oz. seems
to be the least I've seen suggested. Experiment yourself to find the best amount
for your taste.
--

Tip: Make sure to let the cake cook completely before you try to cut it. Because you aren't adding eggs, the cake will be tender and can tear if you cut it while it's warm. Some people have started adding 2 egg whites to the mix. It doesn't raise the points any (less than 1 point) but they report that the cake is firmer and rises better.

POINTS? You have to figure your points from the cake mix you use. Multiply the nutritional info on the box by the number of servings the box says you get (usually 12). Then divide by the actual number of pieces you cut or cupcakes you make. The points will vary widely depending on how much fat is in your cake mix. I made this cake with a Betty Crocker German Chocolate cake with 2.5 grams of fat per serving. It came to 4 points for 12 slices. That would have been 2 points per cupcake if I'd made 24.


I've tried this before and it works... I used lemon/lime soda with yellow mix. Good way to cut down on points and fat.

DIETSODADIVA.COM'S HOLIDAY CHALLENGE - 2008

THE CHALLENGE WE'VE ALL BEEN WAITING FOR AND NEED THIS TIME OF YEAR IS HERE!!! DIETSODADIVA.COM'S HOLIDAY CHALLENGE - 2008!!!

Here's What Ya Gotta Do... MUST BE IN BY 23:59 HOURS (11:59 pm) NOVEMBER 16TH, 2008 - CHALLENGE BEGINS ON NOVEMBER 17TH, 2008 AND WILL RUN UNTIL 11:59pm JANUARY 5TH, 2009!

1. Email me your information: WHEN E-MAILING SUBJECT HEADING MUST BE DIETSODADIVA.COM'S HOLIDAY CHALLENGE - 2008 SUBMISSION (Or something similar).
Name
Nickname if any
Blog Address if any
Current Weight
Address
Before Picture
50 Day Goal
Biggest Challenge Staying On Program
Suggestions, Ideas for This Challenge, For Other Challenges... if any.

Provide a mailing address if you would like to received your challenge completion certificate and or prizes at the end of the challenge.

Your information (i.e. photo, first name/nickname, link to blog if any, current weight, challenge goal, and current status) will be posted on DIETSODADIVA.COM anything you're not comfortable having posted, including pictures just let me know in the email... ADDRESSES OR CONTACT INFORMATION WILL NOT BE POSTED. I respect everyone's privacy and comfort level. If you don't want anything posting, just let me know - that's fine too...

2. Make your BEST effort to Stay on Program.
- Journal EVERYDAY and faithfully.
- Drink Your Water - At Least 6 Cups of Water Daily.
- Stay With In Your Points Range.
- Earn at Least 10 Activity Points a week.
- AND PROMISE THAT IF YOU FALL OF PROGRAM, YOU'RE GOING TO GET YOURSELF UP, DUST YOURSELF OFF AND GET BACK ON!!!

3. Check DietSodaDiva.com daily for new Challenge information and updates.

4. Be willing to post your journal for the day at least once a week.

5. E-mail results every 5 Days: weight, how you're doing, feeling... etc.

6. Every 25 Days Send In UPDATED PHOTO to be posted.

7. At the end of the 50 Days e-mail in your final results, and photos.




WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF DIETSODADIVA.COM'S HOLIDAY CHALLENGE?
The purpose of the Challenge is to keep you motivated during the hardest dieting/healthy eating time of the year - holiday season! Our goal is to make this challenge fun and keep you active and excited about losing weight during this time. Who says losing weight and learning to live on program has to be a punishment... lets make it FUN, there will be no winners or losers. If you complete the Holiday Challenge... YOU'VE WON! Also, it's a sort of way to help keep you accountable for saying on program.


WHAT WILL I WIN IF I COMPLETE THE CHALLENGE?
DietSodaDiva.com isn't sure what the prizes will be yet... but for sure you won't win cash, or anything major. Don't go quitting your job or anything. Expect a small reward - your REAL prize will be walking around with less weight, and feeling and looking even HOTTER! Prizes will be announced later.


WHAT IF I NEED HELP OR MOTIVATION?
DietSodaDiva.com updates daily with either tips, recipes, and extra tidbits, so make sure to check it out daily, if you still need more support email me directly.


WHAT DO I DO IF I FALL OFF TRACK, WILL I STILL BE ALLOWED TO PARTICIPATE?
Of course you will!!! All you have to do is get your butt up and on program. We're all human, and well sometimes things happen and we lose it for a day or two... the important thing is getting back on ASAP.


WHAT IF I DON'T REACH MY GOAL... WILL I STILL GET A PRIZE?
Of course you will as long as you continue to participate through the full challenge.


WILL ALL THE PRIZES BE THE SAME?
We're not sure at this point how the prizes will work, just that everyone will receive acknowledgment for participating...


HOW DO YOU KNOW I'M NOT LYING ABOUT REACHING GOAL OR STAYING ON PROGRAM?
Because DietSodaDiva.com trusts you. And if you say you're staying on program, then you must be. If you lie about it, you're only lying to yourself.


DO I HAVE TO BE A WEIGHT WATCHER MEMBER TO PARTICIPATE IN THE CHALLENGE?
No, just following the program. We are in no way affiliated with Weight Watchers, and are making no profit from this... so whether you pay for meetings or you don't it doesn't matter to us, as long as you're following the program.


DO I HAVE TO HAVE MY PERSONAL INFORMATION OR PHOTO POSTED? CAN I JUST PARTICIPATE PRIVATELY?
Of course you can, DietSodaDiva.com thinks it would be fun to have the participates pictures and goals on the website, but it isn't mandatory to do so. Just let us know when you send in your info what info you don't want on the site, please be specific what you're not comfortable having posted. YOUR ADDRESS OR EMAIL ADDRESS WILL NOT BE POSTED ON DIETSODADIVA.COM


CAN I JUST HAVE MY BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTO POSTED AT THE END OF THE CHALLENGE BUT NOT IN THE BEGINNING?
Sure, whatever makes your comfortable... the goal of the challenge is to keep your motivated. Not to make you feel uncomfortable having your picture on a website.

I'M A TOTAL HAM AND WOULD LIKE YOU TO POST AN UPDATED PICTURE OF ME EVERY 10 DAYS FOR THE WORLD TO SEE... CAN YOU MAKE THAT HAPPEN?
We sure can, if you would like your photo posted more often then every 25 days that's great, just email it to me and I'll make a special post just for you. Whatever it'll take to keep you motivated and through this challenge.

IS THERE A SPECIFIC WAY YOU WANT THE PHOTO SHOT?
That's up to you, however you're comfortable. Just please NO NUDITY. A date stamped photo or holding a sign in the picture with the days date would be nice but not required.


I DON'T WANT TO DO THE CHALLENGE, BUT I KNOW SOMEONE WHO COULD BE INTERESTED, CAN I FORWARD THIS INFORMATION?
Sure you can, the more participates the merrier! As long as the info is into me before 11:59PM November 16th, 2008.


I DON'T HAVE ACCESS TO GETTING MY PICTURE ONLINE, WHAT CAN I DO? CAN I STILL PARTICIPATE?
Yes, you can. Just send in the rest of the info and let me know you can't submit a photo.

WHAT IF MY QUESTION HASN'T BEEN ADDRESSED?
Then email me at dietsodadivaATyahooDOTcom with your questions, comments, or suggestions. Please use the following or something similar in the subject line: QUESTION ABOUT DSD'S 2008 HOLIDAY CHALLENGE.

Another One Bites The Dust...

I'm down a pound. It feels so good to be restarting this week... as it gets closer to weigh-in day I tend to hold my breath and I get anxious right before weigh-in. I can't wait to get there and weigh-in. I'm now down 11.4... inching my way to my 10% goal. I'm a little more then half way there. I'll have it before Christmas.

I'm still trying to get over this cold and get my asthma coughing under control... so I think I'm going to go lay down for now.

Tomorrow I should have up the Diet Soda Diva Holiday Challenge 2008 information up. I have a few who have contacted me ready to be challenged... where are the rest of you? You can comment here or email me at dietsodadivaATyahooDOTcom! Or you can check in tomorrow for the details then decide if it's for you.