Merry's Monthly Check-in

Counting carbs/calories is a drag. Obsessive scale stepping is a recipe for despair. If you want to count something, "days on habit" is a much better metric. Checking off days on a calendar would do just fine, but if you do it here you get accountability and support. Here's how. Start a new topic in this forum called (say) "Your Name Daily Check In." Then every N day post a "reply" to that topic as to whether you stayed on habit. A simple "<font color="green">SUCCESS</font>" or "<font color="red">FAILURE</font>" (or your preferred euphemism if that's too harsh) is sufficient, but obviously you're welcome to write more if you want. On S-days just register that you're taking an S-day. You don't have to do this forever, just until you're confident you've built the habit. Feel free to check in weekly or monthly or sporadically instead of daily. Feel free also to track other habits besides No-s (I'm keeping this forum under No-s because that's what the vast majority are using it for). See also my <a href="/habitcal/">HabitCal</a> tool for another more formal (and perhaps complementary) way to track habits.

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Merry
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Post by Merry » Mon Aug 28, 2017 4:16 am

Thanks! We traveled a ways to see it, but it was totally worth it--so much different from seeing a partial eclipse, or even a lunar eclipse.
Homeschool Mom and No S returnee as of 11-30-15.
2 years and counting on No-S.
29 lbs. down, 34 to go. Slow and steady wins the race.
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Post by Merry » Mon Sep 04, 2017 5:06 pm

Well, despite a whirl-wind August with lots of traveling and lots of dissipation as my grandmother used to say, I somehow have ended up back at my beginning of July weight, down 28.5 lbs. This was a bronze-medal month with 2 NWS days and 2 red days, and some not-very-careful green days too (eating out when traveling, eating out with friends a bit more, but "technically" green). 15 workout days--8 were days I walked, 7 were days I did at least 14 minutes on the elliptical.

I'm just half a pound away from having a bmi in the "overweight" category instead of obese. I really want to cross that threshold! I had one or two days a couple of months ago where I did--but would really love to cross and sustain that. So, I want to try to renew my focus on basic green days again this month. My S days are not perfect, but I don't think I'm sabotaging a ton with them, though I might take a closer look after this next month if I don't see progress. I really think the key is usually in the habits we focus on the majority of the time though, those N days--and I know I've been lax there this summer.

So...onward!
Homeschool Mom and No S returnee as of 11-30-15.
2 years and counting on No-S.
29 lbs. down, 34 to go. Slow and steady wins the race.
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oolala53
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Post by oolala53 » Mon Sep 04, 2017 9:23 pm

Good job on August. I hope you get to overweight land, too!
Count plates, not calories. 11 years "during"
Age 69
BMI Jan/10-30.8
1/12-26.8 3/13-24.9 +/- 8-lb. 3 yrs
9/17 22.8 (flux) 3/18 22.2
2 yrs flux 6/20 22
1/21-23

There is no S better than Vanilla No S (mods now as a senior citizen)

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Post by Merry » Wed Oct 11, 2017 5:22 am

Well, I've hit that mark...3 months of not really losing anything. Blah! But as I've been praying and thinking about it, one thing I've realized is that I think it's time for my portion sizes to decrease again. When I first went to medium plates, I was usually comfortably full and experienced hunger just a bit before the next meal--but not uncomfortably so.

That's not the case any more.

Maintaining those plate sizes, I find that I'm often comfortably full about half to 2/3 of the way through a meal. Sometimes I'm uncomfortable--or on the verge of being so--by the time I finish. I don't know why I'm not stopping, but I'm not. Well, sometimes I know--I hate to have to throw something out if it isn't save-able (like leftover cereal!). Cereal is definitely one I've noticed--the bowl I used to eat is really too big now. A couple of nights ago I made half a bowl--and it really was just right. Other times I don't stop because hey, it's easier to just keep eating what's in front of me, I don't really want to think about it, inertia, laziness...LOL! No good reason!

So...with that in mind, I'm going to look specifically at portion sizes this month and times/ways to reduce them. I think a dessert plate is too small a lot of the time, so I'll have to be a bit more mindful than that...but maybe I'll come up with some new basic defaults that will work fairly easily.

Record-keeping wise, September had one NWS day and 2 red days (though not crazy red days--days with red events), and 16 walking/exercise days.

We'll see how October goes!
Homeschool Mom and No S returnee as of 11-30-15.
2 years and counting on No-S.
29 lbs. down, 34 to go. Slow and steady wins the race.
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Post by gingerpie » Wed Oct 11, 2017 10:39 am

Merry, you are the best at taking it one step at a time 😉slow and thoughtful through and through. Thanks for being here and sharing your process.

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Post by oolala53 » Wed Oct 11, 2017 11:48 am

Congrats on your compliance record!

You keep eating because most humans would keep eating when there's food there. Wansink says if you see it, you eat it. You're normal! (Sure, there are skinny people who leave food, but he says even they, when served more, eat more.)

I hear ya about the dessert plate. I just can't wrap my mind around how to put the different foods on one without it looking like a child's fare. But maybe child's fare would be enough for me. :shock:

Oh, if only there was a way to wipe out our memory of having eaten more before so that eating smaller portions didn't have to be so obvious.

And I think it's great that you're willing to keep adjusting.
Count plates, not calories. 11 years "during"
Age 69
BMI Jan/10-30.8
1/12-26.8 3/13-24.9 +/- 8-lb. 3 yrs
9/17 22.8 (flux) 3/18 22.2
2 yrs flux 6/20 22
1/21-23

There is no S better than Vanilla No S (mods now as a senior citizen)

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Post by Gracie » Wed Oct 11, 2017 4:38 pm

Merry, I love reading about your perseverance and willingness to keep adjusting until you get it right. Very inspirational for me!

Keep up the good work. Hopefully these next steps will be the ones that lead to the numbers continuing to drop down. :)

xx
28 year old who believes that true growth comes from stepping outside of your comfort zone.
Fun-sized (4'10"), fun-loving, and on a journey to embrace a healthy and practical approach to food.
SW (10/9): 118#
CW (11/6): 113#
GW: 105#

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Post by Merry » Fri Oct 13, 2017 5:36 am

oolala53 wrote: I hear ya about the dessert plate. I just can't wrap my mind around how to put the different foods on one without it looking like a child's fare. But maybe child's fare would be enough for me. :shock:
LOL, I've actually had that thought lately! When my kids were little, I would get together with a good friend of mine who was shorter in stature, and she used to serve 1/4 of a sandwich with a couple slices of apple or carrot to her little boys. I was always shocked at how little they ate! Sometimes just taking a bite of that 1/4 bit of sandwich!

Sometimes I have 1/2 sandwich and some apple slices and I'm full before I finish the apple...I may need to go to 1/4 sandwiches or trying to save apple slices, LOL! (I share them with my kids when I can.)
Homeschool Mom and No S returnee as of 11-30-15.
2 years and counting on No-S.
29 lbs. down, 34 to go. Slow and steady wins the race.
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Post by Merry » Fri Oct 13, 2017 5:52 am

Thanks for the encouragement, everyone! As I thought through everything, I realized two things:

1, I don't think my goal to be out of the "obese" range is unreasonable. I don't even think my goal to get to a 25 BMI is unreasonable (but one thing at a time, LOL!)

2, If it's not unreasonable, what will get me there that I'm willing to do long term? I am 100% convinced that if I go on some other (faster) diet, I'm going to rebel and have yo-yo weight gain. I've always done that. I don't have a good reason to think I'll change now, LOL! The only thing I've ever stuck with long-term is No-S--and since coming back to it almost 2 years ago now, I've been convinced that it's a sensible way to eat long-term--and any adjustments I make need to be somehow within the confines of that.

I could calorie count within the confines (I sometimes do that just to see where my plate is--but it's nice to not "have" to do that and to use it just as a "check." And I think when I calorie counted in the past, it wasn't in a 3-plate meal scenario--it was with 1-2 small snacks and it left me thinking about food all day but never satisfied. Meals are more satisfying.)

I could adjust what I eat within the confines (trying to work in more fruit/veggies--and I have done more of that since starting No-S too. Again, it's nice that it can be a "choice" and not something I "have" to do.)

I could exercise more (I'm walking more regularly now, but it's more of a "health" thing than a serious calorie burn of any kind. The one time in my life that I relied on exercise to lose weight, I sprained my ankle and put it all back on. Then I tried to start again and sprained the other, LOL! I'm not very athletic! I think gentle things for heart health are a better choice for me than serious workouts).

I find the 3-plate rules actually give me the most freedom (which makes me believe it's do-able, sustainable, and keeps me from "rebelling" against it because it's not overly confining.) Working within the structure makes sense to me.

I am going to experiment with S days a bit since I've done this so long. I like the idea of focusing on 3 meals, and letting the "S events" on those days be things that are enjoyed with others or special things. Lately I've been in this habit of jonesing on Sunday nights. What gives? LOL! Meals are good habits. Treats are fun with people, but this random roving for some unknown thing is an odd behavior (one I used to do many days a week--I like that No-S has curtailed that!) I really wasn't ready to do much about it on the S days though before now. Well, we'll see how the experiment goes!
Homeschool Mom and No S returnee as of 11-30-15.
2 years and counting on No-S.
29 lbs. down, 34 to go. Slow and steady wins the race.
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Post by oolala53 » Fri Oct 13, 2017 11:48 am

I think that random roving is not odd, if odd means unusual. It's pretty pervasive in our culture and one of the things that No S helps quash. For me it is way more annoying than true hunger, I guess because eating doesn't really take care of it.

Csikszentmihalyi, researcher on "optimal experiences" said that though people say they long for leisure/unstructured time, they often don't feel optimal during it. But it also doesn't feel right to think I have to be busy all the time. Conundrum. Eating isn't the answer either for me. I think there are a LOT of people who are willing for eating to be their entertainment/pacifier. They just don't think putting up with that antsy feeling is a price they are willing to pay to feel lighter or peppier (some don't even know how they could feel) or to look different. I think that's another reason traditional dieting doesn't work. People say, oh I was hungry too much of the time, but I don't think it's real hunger, though I could be wrong.

And it's possible some of it is the body trying for homeostasis.
Count plates, not calories. 11 years "during"
Age 69
BMI Jan/10-30.8
1/12-26.8 3/13-24.9 +/- 8-lb. 3 yrs
9/17 22.8 (flux) 3/18 22.2
2 yrs flux 6/20 22
1/21-23

There is no S better than Vanilla No S (mods now as a senior citizen)

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Post by gingerpie » Fri Oct 13, 2017 1:27 pm

Merry, I've had some luck developing default meals that meet my requirements but I don't have to think about. This allows me to follow a low-ish carb, heart-healthy plan without freaking out :wink:

Weekend meals I tend to keep to no-s overall although that just came slowly over time and I don't fuss if I don't keep to it.

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Post by jenji » Fri Oct 13, 2017 2:54 pm

You are doing some good thinking, Merry. I am cheering you on!
I'm a 53-year-old mom and non-profit CEO
I am 5' 7.5"
Began No S at 184#, BMI 28.4 - 9/25/2017
Current weight: 181#, BMI 27.9, 12/19/2022

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Post by Merry » Sat Oct 14, 2017 4:47 am

oolala53 wrote:I think that random roving is not odd, if odd means unusual. It's pretty pervasive in our culture and one of the things that No S helps quash. For me it is way more annoying than true hunger, I guess because eating doesn't really take care of it.
Odd more in the sense that it's nonsensical. It's accepted behavior (yes, pervasive!) in our culture--even encouraged as a way of handling stress--but if we step back and think about it, there's nothing logical, healthy, or helpful about it. It doesn't meet a physical need, and the feeling usually doesn't go away after eating (or only does after consuming things that are pretty unhealthy!) But we don't often step back to think about it (or don't think about it deeply enough to consider changing it). In stepping back--I find it very odd, illogical behavior (I do get that there's probably some chemical pleasure-center in the brain that wants stimulating etc...) The "self-care" that really isn't self-care at all! It's ultimately unfulfilling behavior that we accept and perpetuate.

No-S is helpful for quashing it on N days, and to some degree on S days (I don't do it like I used to, though I have noticed me doing it more these last couple of weeks or so). Anyway...thinking it through to decide how to quash it for S days as well. One of the things I'm thinking about is what "real" self-care is.
Homeschool Mom and No S returnee as of 11-30-15.
2 years and counting on No-S.
29 lbs. down, 34 to go. Slow and steady wins the race.
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Post by lpearlmom » Mon Oct 16, 2017 5:55 am

I really like how you're looking at all your options & figure what you're willing and able to do long term. We're kind of in the same boat with bmis too high to just accept but stalled weight loss. I'm trying default meals for breakfast & lunch. Like you I'm also working on taming my S days a bit.

This weekend I decided to stick to 3 meals but allow sweets on each plate as well as Sweetened drinks. My sweets ended up being mostly virtually plated but I was able to avoid the constant snacking that really trips me up on the weekends.

Anyway, I'm still experimenting& I know you'll find happy solution for yourself. You've been such a NoS rock star & im sure that'll continue.

P.S. thanks for the well wishes re: my girls. 💕
:twisted: SW: 210 lbs
CW: 172
GW:160

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Post by Bluebell » Mon Oct 16, 2017 6:15 am

Hi Merry, I agree with Linda, you are really giving this some good thoughts, and have a lot of insight. Most of what you say echoes my own thoughts and feelings around food. In the end I had to put a stop to snacking on S days because I was just eating for the sake of it. Sweets and seconds are allowed at mealtimes and that's it. It felt like a huge step but once I did it, it was fine. I am sure you will find a way forwards and I really do admire you for hanging on in there through the tough times. Maintaining is better than gaining or yo yoing so in fact, in my books, you are still a winner! :)
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

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Post by Gracie » Mon Oct 16, 2017 1:58 pm

Merry, your thoughts and insight on this entire lifestyle change/process serves as such a great source of inspiration. Calculating what is going to best contribute to your long-term success is not only practical, but very wise. :)
28 year old who believes that true growth comes from stepping outside of your comfort zone.
Fun-sized (4'10"), fun-loving, and on a journey to embrace a healthy and practical approach to food.
SW (10/9): 118#
CW (11/6): 113#
GW: 105#

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Post by gingerpie » Sun Oct 29, 2017 12:10 pm

Hi Merry, I was reading your post of Oct 13th and this idea came to mind.

https://jamesclear.com/marginal-gains

It's about a professional bicycle team but I think the idea applies to non-athletes as well.

Hope you're doing well

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Post by oolala53 » Mon Oct 30, 2017 3:32 am

Merry, that's what I meant when I said I find it more annoying because it's become so obvious that it's ineffective for the problem at hand yet persists as a desire.

I find a lot of people talk about emotional eating as if it's almost impossible to overcome, like it's inevitable and understandable. I know what you mean about it seeming to have become culturally acceptable. I can't remember which sitcom I saw that had one of the female leads eating ice cream out of the carton as a stress reliever.

Then people so often report on Sparkpeople: "Such and such a thing happened so OF COURSE I overate/dove in the ice cream/ gobbled the chocolate, etc." Eating doesn't have to be an OF COURSE at all. We can train ourselves to think, "I felt overwhelmed and angry and a huge urge to binge so OF COURSE I fumed and cursed/surfed the net/lay on the floor and cried/felt the waves of discomfort roll through me/ called a friend and vented/ slammed things around/listened to a guided meditation/ was plagued by distressing thoughts for quite awhile, etc." I'm not saying these are better, but they are viable and to me, preferable, options, while drinking, gambling and the female versions of porn, romance novels, end up being as bad as the eating, so it's good to keep them off the table. OF COURSE, the ideal would be, "I reflected on the situation, accepted my distress, examined whether I was interpreting things in a supportive way for my well-being, determined if I could take action and took it or determined that it was unreasonable to think I could fix the problem right then, and went on to the next soothing, pleasurable, or productive thing to do and OF COURSE, I didn't take a bite of any food."

Now that would be some awesome prefrontal cortex work, no?

At the same time, being forgiving when we do take the old route is definitely preferable than fretting over knowing better and not acting on it.

I have a couple of notifications on my phone saying to stay binge free and to wait for dinner. I wish I could have one that just popped up randomly and said, "OF COURSE, I eat only at meals."
Count plates, not calories. 11 years "during"
Age 69
BMI Jan/10-30.8
1/12-26.8 3/13-24.9 +/- 8-lb. 3 yrs
9/17 22.8 (flux) 3/18 22.2
2 yrs flux 6/20 22
1/21-23

There is no S better than Vanilla No S (mods now as a senior citizen)

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Post by Merry » Wed Nov 22, 2017 6:31 am

oolala53 wrote:"OF COURSE, I eat only at meals."
LOL, yes! A much better "of course!"
Homeschool Mom and No S returnee as of 11-30-15.
2 years and counting on No-S.
29 lbs. down, 34 to go. Slow and steady wins the race.
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Post by Merry » Wed Nov 22, 2017 6:33 am

gingerpie wrote:Hi Merry, I was reading your post of Oct 13th and this idea came to mind.

https://jamesclear.com/marginal-gains

It's about a professional bicycle team but I think the idea applies to non-athletes as well.

Hope you're doing well
Thanks, that was a great article. Very helpful to think about 1% changes and tweaks over time vs. the "one big event" of losing weight. I read several other articles on that sight too, some good stuff.
Homeschool Mom and No S returnee as of 11-30-15.
2 years and counting on No-S.
29 lbs. down, 34 to go. Slow and steady wins the race.
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Post by Merry » Wed Nov 22, 2017 6:42 am

I realized tonight I haven't been to my check-in for awhile, sorry for not responding sooner! My mom was here for a couple of weeks and I'm really not sure where November has gone!

I'm maintaining still. October ended with 2 reds and one NWS day, 13 walking/workout days (mostly walking).

Heading into Thanksgiving I want to focus on really enjoying the food. It's so easy to overeat at Thanksgiving, especially since we're with family for 5 days and there are so many different foods that we don't usually have. (My SIL's dressing is so delicious--she has really perfected that recipe!) I want to slow down and savor and not just chow down anything in sight. To eat in a thankful way I guess, rather than a mindless way!

Hope everyone has a great Thanksgiving!
Homeschool Mom and No S returnee as of 11-30-15.
2 years and counting on No-S.
29 lbs. down, 34 to go. Slow and steady wins the race.
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Post by oolala53 » Wed Nov 22, 2017 5:16 pm

Very admirable goals. Isn't it a shame that we all have to make such firm resolutions to savor our food? but it is natural for humans to eat more when there's more variety. It's how our ancestors got to be out ancestors.
Count plates, not calories. 11 years "during"
Age 69
BMI Jan/10-30.8
1/12-26.8 3/13-24.9 +/- 8-lb. 3 yrs
9/17 22.8 (flux) 3/18 22.2
2 yrs flux 6/20 22
1/21-23

There is no S better than Vanilla No S (mods now as a senior citizen)

oolala53
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Post by oolala53 » Thu Nov 30, 2017 3:47 am

Thanks for staying with it on Team 2017!
Count plates, not calories. 11 years "during"
Age 69
BMI Jan/10-30.8
1/12-26.8 3/13-24.9 +/- 8-lb. 3 yrs
9/17 22.8 (flux) 3/18 22.2
2 yrs flux 6/20 22
1/21-23

There is no S better than Vanilla No S (mods now as a senior citizen)

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Post by Merry » Fri Dec 01, 2017 6:12 am

LOL, well so much for goals! I DID enjoy the food, but wow, way too much! I think I won't ever be great at vacations/holidays, LOL!
Homeschool Mom and No S returnee as of 11-30-15.
2 years and counting on No-S.
29 lbs. down, 34 to go. Slow and steady wins the race.
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Post by Merry » Sat Dec 09, 2017 6:28 am

I'm behind in getting my 2-year update here! I feel like the last 2 months have been crazy busy with my mom visiting for 2 weeks and then Thanksgiving, getting a new roof put on (and having to call them back out 2 more times...), and all the paperwork that comes up this time of year with college, various health insurance stuff (marketplace...eek!). I'm ready for things to slow down and soak in some of the wonder of this season.

The "skinny" on my stats:

12-15: 208.8
12-16: 185.4
12-17: 181.2

This year has not been like my first year, and I confess that bummed me out! My first year, losses were fairly regular and even. This year...January was the same as December, then I lost 2 lbs in Feb, 1 in March, but in April was back at my beginning of the year weight, lost 2 lbs. each of the next two months, and then spent the rest of the year at either 180 or 181--up, down every month. I'm still not full-on menopause yet, and I don't know if all the hormonal fluctuations are to blame. I don't *think* I'm doing anything drastically different than I did the first year. I thought at one point that maybe I was going too full on the plates, but watching that really hasn't netted a difference.

In keeping with my "olympic" tracking, this year I had:
4 Gold Months (2 NWS, no reds)
3 Silver Months (2 NWS, 1 red)
4 Bronze Months (2 NWS, 2 reds)
1 no medal (2 NWS, 3 reds)

Habit-wise, that's slightly better than my first year (2 fewer no-medal months). And even though I wanted to be farther along, I am glad that at a time when it's so easy to gain for women, I've maintained and even lost a few lbs. Several times in November, I did hit the 179 mark by the end of a week--I just haven't gotten to a point where I hit it on a Monday-Tuesday (I track post-weekend weight). I hit it again this week, even despite going to a Christmas party on Wednesday. So...I'm ever hopeful that I'll hit that this month or next, but we'll see!

I thought I'd want to make changes/tweaks after basically 5 months of not losing, but I'm really not sure I will yet. I think I want to go another couple of months and see if things start to move on their own--I think my body is just making lots of changes this year, and my mind is also keeping up with the transition to having adult kids in college now--maybe I need to just be, and just rest in the Lord this year. I still think getting out of the "obesity" category is an important health goal (and I'm so close!)--but I don't feel this "obsession" with "having" to do that, if that makes sense. Sometimes you just can't force things, and maybe I need to listen to my body, rest, and stay the course. I want to enjoy a beautiful Christmas season--the lights, the music, my kids being on break now. It's worth slowing down for and focusing my mind on what's really important.
Homeschool Mom and No S returnee as of 11-30-15.
2 years and counting on No-S.
29 lbs. down, 34 to go. Slow and steady wins the race.
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gingerpie
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Post by gingerpie » Sat Dec 09, 2017 12:17 pm

Hi Merry,
You had an amazing year habit wise. You really deserve to pat yourself on the back!! Definitely enjoy having your kids home and being at peace with yourself!! That's what's really important. You can decide later on if you want to try to "tweak" what your doing but there isn't any rush.

Honestly, in terms of weight loss, I sometimes think it's obvious that no-s was developed by a youngish male. Older female bodies often need quite a bit more coaxing to get them where we want them. However, in terms of mental health, gentleness and self-acceptance, no-s really can't be beat.

Thanks for checking in - hope you have a great month.

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Post by ZippaDee » Sat Dec 09, 2017 2:43 pm

Merry, Your posts are always so encouraging and uplifting. You have such a common sense attitude. Congrats on your success and peace of mind that you have found. Wishing you and your family a wonderful holiday season! Merry Christmas!
"Rivers know this: There is no hurry. We shall get there some day." ~Winnie the Pooh ~

A Flower does not think of competing with the flower next to it. It just blooms!

Diets Don't Work.

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Post by Merry » Sun Dec 10, 2017 6:07 am

ZippaDee wrote:Merry, Your posts are always so encouraging and uplifting. You have such a common sense attitude. Congrats on your success and peace of mind that you have found. Wishing you and your family a wonderful holiday season! Merry Christmas!
Aw, thanks! Your signature is one of my very favorite Pooh quotes! I used it in a blog once: http://www.hopeismyanchor.com/2008/01/f ... -rest.html
Homeschool Mom and No S returnee as of 11-30-15.
2 years and counting on No-S.
29 lbs. down, 34 to go. Slow and steady wins the race.
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Merry
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Joined: Mon Sep 22, 2008 2:14 am

Post by Merry » Sun Dec 10, 2017 6:08 am

gingerpie wrote:Hi Merry,
You had an amazing year habit wise. You really deserve to pat yourself on the back!! Definitely enjoy having your kids home and being at peace with yourself!! That's what's really important. You can decide later on if you want to try to "tweak" what your doing but there isn't any rush.

Honestly, in terms of weight loss, I sometimes think it's obvious that no-s was developed by a youngish male. Older female bodies often need quite a bit more coaxing to get them where we want them. However, in terms of mental health, gentleness and self-acceptance, no-s really can't be beat.

Thanks for checking in - hope you have a great month.
Thanks Ginger! :-)
Homeschool Mom and No S returnee as of 11-30-15.
2 years and counting on No-S.
29 lbs. down, 34 to go. Slow and steady wins the race.
Respect Moderation

oolala53
Posts: 10059
Joined: Mon Oct 06, 2008 1:46 am
Location: San Diego, CA USA

Post by oolala53 » Sun Dec 10, 2017 6:17 am

Kudos Kudos Kudos
Count plates, not calories. 11 years "during"
Age 69
BMI Jan/10-30.8
1/12-26.8 3/13-24.9 +/- 8-lb. 3 yrs
9/17 22.8 (flux) 3/18 22.2
2 yrs flux 6/20 22
1/21-23

There is no S better than Vanilla No S (mods now as a senior citizen)

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ZippaDee
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Joined: Mon Jun 16, 2008 2:14 pm
Location: No Quit Zone

Post by ZippaDee » Mon Dec 11, 2017 12:37 am

Merry said:
Aw, thanks! Your signature is one of my very favorite Pooh quotes! I used it in a blog once: http://www.hopeismyanchor.com/2008/01/f ... -rest.html
Thanks so much for sharing this blog post! LOVE your blog! You are a wonderful writer! I have it bookmarked and will be visiting often. This Pooh quote is even more meaningful when read in it's entirety.
"Rivers know this: There is no hurry. We shall get there some day." ~Winnie the Pooh ~

A Flower does not think of competing with the flower next to it. It just blooms!

Diets Don't Work.

Larkspur
Posts: 438
Joined: Mon Mar 06, 2017 3:30 pm
Location: Pennsylvania

Post by Larkspur » Mon Dec 11, 2017 11:14 pm

I think you are very wise, Merry. Your compliance has been awesome, it sounds like you're feeling good, and I think it makes a lot of sense to continue to care for loved ones & self in this peaceful and nurturing way versus potentially getting into a tussle with your body.

I have 2 out of the nest (one in his own home, one finishing up college this year.) Our last chick still has 2 1/2 years at home. Role change is a thing, for sure. Enjoy your holidays!

Azalealilac
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Joined: Fri Dec 08, 2017 3:41 pm

Post by Azalealilac » Wed Dec 13, 2017 4:49 am

Really enjoyed reading all your thread, Merry. You are an inspiration to me.

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Merry
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Joined: Mon Sep 22, 2008 2:14 am

Post by Merry » Wed Dec 13, 2017 6:11 am

ZippaDee wrote:Merry said:
Aw, thanks! Your signature is one of my very favorite Pooh quotes! I used it in a blog once: http://www.hopeismyanchor.com/2008/01/f ... -rest.html
Thanks so much for sharing this blog post! LOVE your blog! You are a wonderful writer! I have it bookmarked and will be visiting often. This Pooh quote is even more meaningful when read in it's entirety.
Thanks! I haven't been a regular blogger since my work hours picked up a few years ago, but I imagine getting back to it :-)
Homeschool Mom and No S returnee as of 11-30-15.
2 years and counting on No-S.
29 lbs. down, 34 to go. Slow and steady wins the race.
Respect Moderation

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Merry
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Joined: Mon Sep 22, 2008 2:14 am

Post by Merry » Wed Dec 13, 2017 6:11 am

Thanks everyone :-)
Homeschool Mom and No S returnee as of 11-30-15.
2 years and counting on No-S.
29 lbs. down, 34 to go. Slow and steady wins the race.
Respect Moderation

jenji
Posts: 661
Joined: Tue Sep 26, 2017 5:00 pm
Location: Cambridge

Post by jenji » Wed Dec 13, 2017 1:49 pm

Enjoy the patient anticipation of Advent! It sounds like you are being smart about caring for your body, and as much as we want fast, the slow loss is best.
I'm a 53-year-old mom and non-profit CEO
I am 5' 7.5"
Began No S at 184#, BMI 28.4 - 9/25/2017
Current weight: 181#, BMI 27.9, 12/19/2022

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Merry
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Joined: Mon Sep 22, 2008 2:14 am

Post by Merry » Mon Dec 25, 2017 7:21 am

Well, the breakfast casserole is made and ready to bake tomorrow morning. And we'll do a roast in the crock pot for dinner. Had everything wrapped the 23rd, so today I just enjoyed a lovely evening of carols and scripture reading, lots of candles and lights at church, and then a Christmas movie with the family. It's cute to see the kids excited, even though they're grown now!

Merry Christmas, everyone!
Homeschool Mom and No S returnee as of 11-30-15.
2 years and counting on No-S.
29 lbs. down, 34 to go. Slow and steady wins the race.
Respect Moderation

gingerpie
Posts: 1031
Joined: Sun Apr 06, 2014 8:16 pm
Location: Pennsylvania, US

Post by gingerpie » Mon Dec 25, 2017 11:39 am

Merry Christmas to you too. Hope you have a great day.

oolala53
Posts: 10059
Joined: Mon Oct 06, 2008 1:46 am
Location: San Diego, CA USA

Post by oolala53 » Mon Dec 25, 2017 4:17 pm

Sounds delightful! Best to you.
Count plates, not calories. 11 years "during"
Age 69
BMI Jan/10-30.8
1/12-26.8 3/13-24.9 +/- 8-lb. 3 yrs
9/17 22.8 (flux) 3/18 22.2
2 yrs flux 6/20 22
1/21-23

There is no S better than Vanilla No S (mods now as a senior citizen)

automatedeating
Posts: 5305
Joined: Sat Aug 31, 2013 2:16 pm

Post by automatedeating » Sun Dec 31, 2017 3:28 am

Hope you had a "Merry" Christmas, MERRY! :)

I have enjoyed catching up a bit on your thread. I love to see your great habit and oh my goodness, your thoughtful analysis. Love it!
Month/Year-BMI
8/13-26.3
8/14-24.5
5/15-26.2
1/16-26.9; 9/16-25.6
8/17-25.8; 11/17-26.9
3/18-25.6; 8/18-24.5; 10/18-23.8;
3/19-22.1; 10/19-21.8
6/20-22.5; 7/20-23.0; 9/20-23.6
4/21 - 25.2

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Merry
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Joined: Mon Sep 22, 2008 2:14 am

Post by Merry » Sun Dec 31, 2017 4:55 am

Thanks! :)
Homeschool Mom and No S returnee as of 11-30-15.
2 years and counting on No-S.
29 lbs. down, 34 to go. Slow and steady wins the race.
Respect Moderation

User avatar
Merry
Posts: 1658
Joined: Mon Sep 22, 2008 2:14 am

Post by Merry » Wed Jan 03, 2018 6:40 am

Hello 2018!

December was pretty good, 14 days of walking/exercise but 3 red days so no medal. Small fails rather than big ones, but those do add up.

I think in 2018 I want to try to remember that. I think I "pushed the envelope" a lot in 2017--maybe I'm letting bad habits slowly creep in? I'm going to watch for that, maybe re-read the book, and see if I can tighten habits up a bit this year and take off some more weight.
Homeschool Mom and No S returnee as of 11-30-15.
2 years and counting on No-S.
29 lbs. down, 34 to go. Slow and steady wins the race.
Respect Moderation

oolala53
Posts: 10059
Joined: Mon Oct 06, 2008 1:46 am
Location: San Diego, CA USA

Post by oolala53 » Wed Jan 03, 2018 7:13 am

Sounds reasonable and smart. We're on your side!
Count plates, not calories. 11 years "during"
Age 69
BMI Jan/10-30.8
1/12-26.8 3/13-24.9 +/- 8-lb. 3 yrs
9/17 22.8 (flux) 3/18 22.2
2 yrs flux 6/20 22
1/21-23

There is no S better than Vanilla No S (mods now as a senior citizen)

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Merry
Posts: 1658
Joined: Mon Sep 22, 2008 2:14 am

Post by Merry » Wed Jan 31, 2018 6:05 am

January has been crazy busy here! Looks like it will end up a gold medal month with no reds though, and 16 walking/workout days, so that's good. And down a pound, yay! I'm just into that "overweight" category, and looking forward to being more "established" there rather than bouncing back & forth to obese!

I gave up sugar in coffee (except for S days) a couple of weeks ago. Felt like I was having too much sugar on N days (I was drinking about a pot of coffee over the course of the day--3 large mugs and about 300-400 calories total with cream and sugar). I decided it just wasn't worth it to me (and the blood sugar spike wasn't healthy either), so now I just do cream. The flavor difference does take getting used to! but I remind myself each day that it will be nice and creamy (as opposed to sweet). I can still enjoy a sweeter coffee at church as a nice treat, and I'm enjoying the change so far. It hasn't been as hard as I thought it would be--I guess I was just ready.

I've been thinking a lot about moderation--about enjoying moderation (because excess really doesn't feel good afterwards--we just think we'll enjoy it.) I went out to eat with my hubby the other morning and got a breakfast skillet--those are always huge, and I always take about half home. But that first bite I ate quickly as if I was prepping to wolf down the whole thing! I caught myself and my thought process--why would I want that? I'd feel so over-stuffed. Greed really doesn't taste that good (when I eat that way, I hardly notice about the first 2/3 of what I'm eating, I'm just eating so fast). So it felt good to just eat slowly and enjoy (and look forward to delicious leftovers! I love getting to eat things I like twice!) So, "respect moderation" has been something I've told myself a lot lately too.

I hope everyone is having a good month! I haven't been keeping up as much on the check-in threads--we'll see if work slows down in a bit.
Homeschool Mom and No S returnee as of 11-30-15.
2 years and counting on No-S.
29 lbs. down, 34 to go. Slow and steady wins the race.
Respect Moderation

oolala53
Posts: 10059
Joined: Mon Oct 06, 2008 1:46 am
Location: San Diego, CA USA

Post by oolala53 » Wed Jan 31, 2018 7:39 pm

Congrats on a gold medal month! I haven't had one of those in a LONG time, but it may be too late for me to muster the will to have one in February... Maybe I can join you in March!
Count plates, not calories. 11 years "during"
Age 69
BMI Jan/10-30.8
1/12-26.8 3/13-24.9 +/- 8-lb. 3 yrs
9/17 22.8 (flux) 3/18 22.2
2 yrs flux 6/20 22
1/21-23

There is no S better than Vanilla No S (mods now as a senior citizen)

ironchef
Posts: 1630
Joined: Mon Jul 30, 2012 10:12 am
Location: Australia

Post by ironchef » Thu Feb 01, 2018 1:30 am

Great update Merry! Well done. I love your idea of getting to eat a favourite food twice - what a good way of thinking positively about moderation. And I quite agree, eating a favourite twice without feeling stuffed is waaay better.

I never drank any sugar in my tea, and gave up sugar in coffee several years back. It takes a while, but eventually your taste buds will adjust I promise you!

automatedeating
Posts: 5305
Joined: Sat Aug 31, 2013 2:16 pm

Post by automatedeating » Thu Feb 01, 2018 2:38 am

Great month!

I gave up sugar in my coffee years ago and now I can't even drink it with sugar! My desire definitely changed. I add quite a bit of milk to mine, though.
Month/Year-BMI
8/13-26.3
8/14-24.5
5/15-26.2
1/16-26.9; 9/16-25.6
8/17-25.8; 11/17-26.9
3/18-25.6; 8/18-24.5; 10/18-23.8;
3/19-22.1; 10/19-21.8
6/20-22.5; 7/20-23.0; 9/20-23.6
4/21 - 25.2

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Merry
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Joined: Mon Sep 22, 2008 2:14 am

Post by Merry » Fri Feb 02, 2018 12:35 am

LOL, good to know! I think I've "adjusted" to the coffee this way (ie, I "like" it but don't "love" it.) It's kind of hard imagining getting to the point where I wouldn't like it with sugar, LOL! Maybe I will though!

And I just realized--I only had one NWS day last month! That's a first! I didn't even miss not having a second one!
Homeschool Mom and No S returnee as of 11-30-15.
2 years and counting on No-S.
29 lbs. down, 34 to go. Slow and steady wins the race.
Respect Moderation

HeatherG
Posts: 51
Joined: Sat Dec 09, 2017 9:24 pm

Post by HeatherG » Mon Feb 05, 2018 9:25 am

Well done Merry, I love hearing about everyone's adjustments and journeys. I too eat things so fast...I realised a while ago that I would justify seconds, or thirds on the basis that I will enjoy them and taste them! Why don't I just eat more slowly first time round - and now with No S I need to!

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lpearlmom
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Joined: Fri Aug 02, 2013 4:59 am
Location: Arizona

Post by lpearlmom » Mon Feb 05, 2018 3:31 pm

Glad to see you’re still staying the course Merry! Giving up sugar in your coffee is awesome! Now you won’t be spiking your insulin between meals. It’s crazy what we think we can’t give up till we can. I used to drink a venti mocha every single day, sometimes two. Now I drink plain herbal tea with nothing added. Mind blowing!
:twisted: SW: 210 lbs
CW: 172
GW:160

oolala53
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Joined: Mon Oct 06, 2008 1:46 am
Location: San Diego, CA USA

Post by oolala53 » Mon Feb 05, 2018 8:21 pm

Heather, my guess is that without a cultural practice of savoring meals, it doesn't happen naturally. It's a human imperative to get dense calories when possible, and in the far past, there was a real advantage to get them in fast just so that we COULD eat more. Those who couldn't didn't have as good a chance of procreating, which was the name of the game, whether they realized it or not.

But things do taste better to me when I savor. When the possible reward seems worth it, the effort follows until benefits make themselves known.
Count plates, not calories. 11 years "during"
Age 69
BMI Jan/10-30.8
1/12-26.8 3/13-24.9 +/- 8-lb. 3 yrs
9/17 22.8 (flux) 3/18 22.2
2 yrs flux 6/20 22
1/21-23

There is no S better than Vanilla No S (mods now as a senior citizen)

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