Bluebell's 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.

Moderators: Soprano, automatedeating

Bluebell
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Post by Bluebell » Sun May 14, 2017 9:32 pm

This weekend has been fine as far as meals go, however I have overindulged in chocolate. No idea why I still feel the need to do this. Luckily I have stuck to no snacks so the chocolate has only been after meals.
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

Bluebell
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Post by Bluebell » Mon May 15, 2017 9:17 pm

Today - success. Husband finally home after several weeks away and it was so nice to all sit round the table and enjoy a roast dinner together.
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

Larkspur
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Post by Larkspur » Tue May 16, 2017 12:00 pm

Gratz on the return of your spouse :)

Bluebell
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Post by Bluebell » Tue May 16, 2017 9:28 pm

Thanks Larkspur. It is indeed good to have him back home. Even though he leaves a mess everywhere he goes :lol: Love him really...
Today - success
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

Bluebell
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Post by Bluebell » Thu May 18, 2017 9:33 pm

Today - success. Dinner out with the family, my meal came on a long rectangle plate which threw me a bit! But I reckon I did OK and ate what would fit on a regular plate at home.
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

Bluebell
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Post by Bluebell » Fri May 19, 2017 9:00 pm

Today I had marked as a non weekend special day, however the meal out with friends had to be postponed due to illness. So I have had a normal NoS day and will adjust my May challenge chart accordingly.
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

Bluebell
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Post by Bluebell » Sun May 21, 2017 8:59 pm

Had a nice weekend at home catching up on chores and gardening, and taking the boys to their self defence classes. Have done a fair bit of home cooking which has been nice, we've enjoyed eating as a family. Weather has been lovely so we've been eating outside a bit.
Treats today have been homemade banana loaf, seconds at lunchtime, and homemade apple crumble and cream.
I put on a pair of cropped jeans today which were way too tight last summer and they fit me easily, so I guess that shows I have made good progress. Slow but steady definitely suits me.
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

Bluebell
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Post by Bluebell » Mon May 22, 2017 9:24 pm

Today - success. I am definitely a creature of habit. Today I had leftover dinner from yesterday for my lunch, beef casserole with carrots, parsnips, peas and potatoes. It was delicious but - I found myself missing my usual sandwich fruit and yoghurt! :lol:
Back to my usual fare tomorrow!
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

Bluebell
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Post by Bluebell » Wed May 24, 2017 9:32 pm

Tues and Weds - success
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

Bluebell
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Post by Bluebell » Fri May 26, 2017 9:24 pm

Thurs and Fri - success
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

oolala53
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Post by oolala53 » Sat May 27, 2017 11:24 am

A very good week. And congrats on the pants fitting.

Enjoy your S days- even if you end up having no S's.
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)

Bluebell
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Post by Bluebell » Mon May 29, 2017 9:35 pm

Thanks oolala&#128522;
Bought a few more clothes today, felt quite good in them, in fact I am feeling pretty accepting of my body right now. I know I am still overweight, and have been thinner than this at several periods over the years, but I have never really just been able to feel comfortable in my own skin. Its really significant actually, to feel at peace with how I look. Sure, I could still write a long list of my imperfections, but they don't upset me like they used to. NoS has shown me that it is OK to be me.
Had a good weekend with a family BBQ at our house, I enjoyed my Sweets and seconds, still no snacks because of braces. I hope I can keep up no snacks at weekends, I don't really need or want them.
Today back to normal even though it is a bank holiday and I am on a week's half term holiday with my husband and the boys. We're off camping on Weds for 4 nights, I hope the weather cheers up, very grey and drizzly here in the UK!
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

oolala53
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Post by oolala53 » Mon May 29, 2017 9:56 pm

I felt okay about my body when I started No S, even though I was almost the fattest I'd ever been. It seemed useless to judge it much, since I wasn't willing to eat a lot less, etc. Not to say there weren't moments I'd catch a look at myself and have a chill go through me, but I felt I'd learned how to "present" myself better, and I just didn't see the heaviness as much. I see pictures from before and am actually amused by big I am in them.

I know one thing. I'd rather be heavy and okay with it, than thin and wishing I was thinner.
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)

Bluebell
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Post by Bluebell » Tue May 30, 2017 7:00 pm

oolala53 wrote: I know one thing. I'd rather be heavy and okay with it, than thin and wishing I was thinner.
Couldn't agree more. I never felt thin enough, even at my thinnest. Crazy how we are conditioned into thinking that thin=good/attractive. Its taken me a long time to start to undo that way of thinking.
Today - success.
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

Bluebell
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Post by Bluebell » Mon Jun 05, 2017 1:50 pm

So I am checking in after a few days holiday away with my family, where I indulged in far too many Ss. I have only put on a pound but it is alarming how quickly I fell back into bad habits. Back on it today, feels much better to be in control again.
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

oolala53
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Post by oolala53 » Mon Jun 05, 2017 7:13 pm

I feel that way, too, after all my years. They're so attractive and available, and cheap! I can ruin my day for a buck.
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)

Bluebell
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Post by Bluebell » Tue Jun 06, 2017 8:50 pm

Today - success
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

Bluebell
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Post by Bluebell » Wed Jun 07, 2017 9:46 pm

Today - success
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

Bluebell
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Post by Bluebell » Thu Jun 08, 2017 9:22 pm

Today was a postponed birthday meal for my closest friend. In fact we had a very healthy plate of sea bass, veg and new potatoes and my only S was a slice of lemon tart. One glass of fizz. Very nice to spend time with her and our other friend, our boys are all on their very first residential trip tonight so we were able to offer each other a bit of solidarity and enjoy a lovely meal together. I am marking as a special day.
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

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Merry
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Post by Merry » Fri Jun 09, 2017 4:50 am

Sounds like a lovely time with your friend! :)
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

Bluebell
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Post by Bluebell » Fri Jun 09, 2017 9:26 pm

Thanks Merry it really was :) I don't have a huge social circle or indeed a busy social life, but the close friends I do have are very important to me. So nice to just do the simple things - share a meal, have a chat and support each other.
Today - success.
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

Bluebell
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Post by Bluebell » Sun Jun 11, 2017 9:38 pm

A fairly good weekend, had a few treats with meals but nothing outrageous. Enjoyed some time with my family and got lots of chores done. I have an extremely annoying cough which is getting me down a bit, but apart from that all is good.
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

oolala53
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Post by oolala53 » Mon Jun 12, 2017 1:47 am

Nice food, sweet family time, and productivity. A winning combination.
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
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Post by Merry » Mon Jun 12, 2017 4:26 am

Hope you feel better soon! Sounds like a good weekend otherwise :-)
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

Bluebell
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Post by Bluebell » Mon Jun 12, 2017 9:45 pm

Hi Merry and oolala, thanks for your comments :)
Today - success
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

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lpearlmom
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Post by lpearlmom » Tue Jun 13, 2017 3:18 am

Hope you feel better soon and thanks for the support today. I know it's not always easy speaking up.
:twisted: SW: 210 lbs
CW: 172
GW:160

Bluebell
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Post by Bluebell » Tue Jun 13, 2017 5:51 pm

Ipearlmom - No problem&#128522; I'm not always one to join in with debates but your reply really resonated with me and I couldn't keep quiet! Completely agree with what you were saying. To my mind NoS is so different to any other diet and I'm so pleased to have finally found it in my 40s. I think it's important to keep the true message and spirit of NoS alive on these boards.

Today - success.
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

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lpearlmom
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Post by lpearlmom » Wed Jun 14, 2017 3:03 pm

I agree.

Thanks again. :)
:twisted: SW: 210 lbs
CW: 172
GW:160

Bluebell
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Post by Bluebell » Wed Jun 14, 2017 9:19 pm

Today - success
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

Bluebell
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Post by Bluebell » Fri Jun 16, 2017 9:41 pm

Today - success
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

Bluebell
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Post by Bluebell » Sun Jun 18, 2017 9:54 pm

After 8 and a half months of NoS and having made such progress with my eating, I finally feel ready to face my next demon - exercise. I have a huge mental block about fitting in formal exercise. I will make excuses forever to not do it. I think I see it as an extra chore, alongside work and running the house and being a mum, it just feels too much. However, I know that i am doing myself no favours by avoiding it and am currently very unfit which is not a nice feeling. I am going to try and fit in 3 sessions ler week, these will have to be at home as my husband works away a lot so I cannot make a regular commitment to a class or gym session.
Well I've said it now so I'd better get on and do it!
I have had a very S meal out with my boys today, 3 courses, I really enjoyed it but do feel rather full now. Back to normality tomorrow.
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

oolala53
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Post by oolala53 » Mon Jun 19, 2017 1:02 am

I've never gotten the consistent exercise thing down. It just seems easier NOT to do something (eat) than to DO something. Don't be afraid to start with just a few minutes at a time. I have occasionally worked up some streaks by starting with 4 minutes of vigorous moves, akin to Shovelglove except without the sledge hammer, and working up to some days of 11 and some days of 14 minutes. It's a bit embarrassing for me because I'm always telling people that regular exercise is even more associated with longevity than slimness is.

I hope you get inspired! I give you permission to rub my face in it, though I know you won't. But you may be secretly smug about it with my blessings.
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
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Post by Merry » Mon Jun 19, 2017 4:26 am

I was at the year mark before I started trying to exercise somewhat regularly. I keep a habitcal for that too, but I don't do red days. I do green if I do 14 minutes of a workout (any type), and I do yellow if I do 14 or more minutes of walking. That way each month I can at least see how many days I did *something.* Most of the time, I'm motivated to want to get something on my calendar if I go to mark my habitcal for No-S and see blanks on my exercise calendar, LOL! Hang in there, you can do this!
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

Bluebell
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Post by Bluebell » Mon Jun 19, 2017 8:47 pm

Thank you Merry and Oolala, I really appreciate your honesty and understanding. Oolala I don't think I will feel smug if I manage to achieve anything resembling an exercise routine, more likely I will feel puffed out and sweaty ha ha! :lol:
Merry I like the idea of making a habitcal for exercise, I think that could help me too.
Well I've made some progress in that I have found a good website with free exercise routines, and one in particular which seems appropriate for beginners which is definitely me! I haven't followed it yet, legitimate reason though, visiting mother in law in hospital this evening.
Tomorrow, who knows, I will try!
Eating today was success. Having a bit of a heatwave here in the UK (That's anything approaching 30' to us Brits!) and I find it easier to eat less in the heat.
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

oolala53
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Post by oolala53 » Tue Jun 20, 2017 4:26 am

We're having unseasonably hot weather in the southwest U. S.: 38 to 47 deg. Celsius, but I am not there. Will be in three days. We cut our trip in the area a day short because of it.

Got to warn you: when I've been in situations that dampened my appetite, it came roaring back when the situation ended. That doesn't mean you have to obey it; just know what it is.

TONS of free exercise stuff on web.
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)

Bluebell
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Joined: Thu Sep 29, 2016 7:17 pm
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Post by Bluebell » Wed Jun 21, 2017 7:14 pm

Thank you oolala I shall try and prepare myself for potential appetite surge!
Well I sort of made a tiny start, 15min walk around the block while my son went on his scooter, was reasonably brisk as I was trying to keep up with him! Not really long enough but still so hot here. My legs ache in the heat.
(See, more excuses!)
Food was success.
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

Bluebell
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Post by Bluebell » Thu Jun 22, 2017 9:19 pm

Success, although a rather calorific dinner as we had takeaway fish and chips. I did stick to one plate but I usually try and leave the batter on the fish - this evening I just had an urge to eat the lot! I have to be honest and say that it was delicious, although not something I think I would want to eat too frequently.
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

Skycat
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Post by Skycat » Fri Jun 23, 2017 5:19 am

Oh man I miss proper fish and chips after reading that :D

I hope you will forgive my tuppence-worth on your post about exercise. I grew up in a household where neither parent ever did any exercise. I never did any exercise myself as a result, it just wasn't something that occurred to me to do and my brother was jut the same. I started to do exercise (volountarily outside of P.E lessons) at the very end of high school, but only sporadically until I started dieting in my late 20s, when I got more regular about it I really wish I'd had a head-start when I was younger. Funnily my mum now goes to half a dozen exercise classes a week now that she's retired, she also wishes she'd given some time and thought to exercise when we were kids.

In short, I think by keeping this up, it'll have many, many benefits. Go You :D :D
I CAN do this.

Bluebell
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Post by Bluebell » Fri Jun 23, 2017 9:22 pm

Thank you Skycat for your thoughts, I do appreciate them. (And apologies for making you think of fish and chips!)
It sounds as if we had similar upbringings, in fact I sometimes look back and wish my parents had helped me find a passion for some form of exercise. I am very conscious of this as a parent and have managed to find a self defence class that my boys love, my 13 year old does 3 hours a week out of choice and I have noticed a huge difference in his fitness levels, coordiantion and self confidence. I hope that it will follow him and my other son through to adulthood in some shape or form.
I am going to make myself a very mini target of doing the half hour fitness video I found online, this weekend. You have to start somewhere, right? I will report back!
Food today was success.
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

Bluebell
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Post by Bluebell » Mon Jun 26, 2017 9:07 pm

Well I did achieve my mini target, on Sunday morning I put on my fitness video and managed 30 minutes of not particularly vigorous exercise! I am aching today which is because my muscles are so out of use, I did feel very weak during the video and it just goes to show how much I need to do this. It wasn't awful and I can see it as something to get doneand ticked off.
So next mini target is to do it twice more this week.
Food has been Ok over the weekend, I enjoyed a few sweets and seconds, but as usual no snacks.
Today - success
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

oolala53
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Post by oolala53 » Mon Jun 26, 2017 11:01 pm

From zero to 30! Impressive.
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)

Bluebell
Posts: 633
Joined: Thu Sep 29, 2016 7:17 pm
Location: Hampshire UK

Post by Bluebell » Tue Jun 27, 2017 5:35 pm

Thank you for your encouragement oolala. I managed to complete another 30 minutes today. I'm still aching, I can feel long ignored muscles being forced to work!! I can only hope it gets easier. I am doing a sort of pre HIIT workout, to get you ready for the real thing, so I'll be sticking at it for a while until I feel physically stronger.
Am battling sugar cravings today (you'd think after all these months they'd go away!) but have stayed strong. Sweet potato chips with dinner were a good compromise, although chocolate would have been nicer :lol:
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

oolala53
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Post by oolala53 » Tue Jun 27, 2017 7:13 pm

It would be very surprising if you didn't get stronger.

I still get sugar cravings. I'm on several teams on Spark and the experience varies. Some maintainers feel it's not a problem and others do. I just don't know what I'd have to do for them to go away completely. I stopped expecting them to , most of the time. Sure, sometimes I feel pouty about it. The difference is that I consider them manageable.

Though it's amazing that I forget this, I have never regretted "staying strong," no matter how many times I've had to do it.
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)

pinkhippie
Posts: 1293
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Post by pinkhippie » Tue Jun 27, 2017 7:42 pm

Hi Bluebell!

Your post about exercise really resonated with me. I have always had that exact same issue with exercise and had a really hard time fitting it in or staying committed.

About 2 months ago I started exercising about 3 times a week AGAIN but this time I have managed to keep it up. I have discovered that its actually not a chore or another responsibility, but its a gift to myself. It's something I do for myself. It did NOT feel that way in the beginning. One of the most major things that helped is I made it a no kid time. I don't know how old your kids are but mine are finally old enough that I can shut the door and tell them Im only available in an emergency. Therefore its time to myself which I always need more of.

Another thing that helped was using an app that tells me what to do every day. I have a bad history of starting too strong and fast and burning myself out or injuring myself too soon. I also sometimes listen to an audio book and that helps the time go quickly and be enjoyable.

I also bought myself good exercise shoes that I only wear for exercise and I put on special exercise clothes because I notice when I put them on I suddenly start feeling like exercising more. Its hard to decide not to do my work out when I am wearing my work out clothes.

I have to say, I have not been completely consistent with 3 times a week but I have been doing 2 times a week which is way better than 0! I also love noticing my new strength when unloading groceries and stuff.

Anyway, good for you and good luck with the exercise. I know how difficult it is.

Bluebell
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Post by Bluebell » Tue Jun 27, 2017 9:52 pm

Oolala you are spot on as always :) I don't regret staying strong, I sure would have regretted eating chocolate on an N day though! For me its a case of getting through that immediate craving, then I am Ok again. Which just goes to show that it really is just a craving and will pass. (I love the idea of feelng pouty, that describes my short term crankiness very well!)

Pinkhippie thank you so much for taking the time to post. It really helps to know that there are others out there who understand. I know this is something I need to do for myself, I'm just getting through that hard bit of forcing myself. I have had good levels of fitness in the past and can remember how good it feels, but I haven't been in that place for a long time!
I agree with making it my time. My boys are 13 and 8 now so yes, they are more than capable of leaving me alone for half an hour! I am at a place in my life where I'm just starting to recover a bit of time for myself, and making exercise part of that is a great way to look at it.
I will try your suggestions and see how I get on! Thanks again for your support. :)
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

Bluebell
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Post by Bluebell » Wed Jun 28, 2017 8:48 pm

Today - success
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

pinkhippie
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Post by pinkhippie » Thu Jun 29, 2017 12:08 am

Sure! I hope something I said helps. I just know that your expression of feelings about exercise pretty much mirrored my own a few months ago and I always felt so frustrated by my "exercise block" as I called it. Honestly it has also been helpful that my husband has jumped on the exercise wagon as well and has been very supportive.

My youngest girls are 5 and 8 so its a recent thing to be able to shut the door and say "give mommy an hour." It has been blissful!

Good luck with everything. :)

Bluebell
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Post by Bluebell » Thu Jun 29, 2017 9:43 pm

Thanks you pinkhippie 😊 I have one more exercise video to fit in this week then I will have made my mini goal of 3 times this week. Going to try and fit it in tomorrow.
Food today was just about success, by which I mean we had Chinese takeaway for dinner and my plate was about as full as it could get. Not the healthiest of plates and not really displaying moderation, but at least I stopped myself from loading up with seconds! I had to put the lids on those dishes pretty quickly!
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

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Post by Elyssa » Thu Jun 29, 2017 11:12 pm

Hi Bluebell:

Super good news about your newly-found commitment to exercise!!!

I feel so blessed that, when it comes to exercise, my years as a Weight Watcher really worked to entrench the habit. (Even when I was really fat, before WW, I still exercised - just not as regularly.)

My goal is 30 minutes a day of structured exercise.

I usually meet the goal but then, I also often don't meet it. But I am not a perfectionist about exercise. If I can only do 20 minutes, so be it. If I can only do 10 minutes, okay. Even 5 minutes are better than nothing. Unless I am physically ill (and often even then), I get some form of exercise in every day.

Daily exercise started with the idea of weight management, but it's long since morphed into much more than "just" that. I feel better when I exercise, and don't feel good when I don't. I am aware of the health benefits, which motivates me further. Not to mention, I know I am modeling this habit for my child (something you lamented your own parents not having done during your childhood).

No gym for me. I use DVDs, which is sort of like using online videos, I guess - except I don't need the Internet for it and it feels like there is less of a giant universe of options. So most of the time, I exercise at home. I have DVDs for every mood, body part, type of exercise... some days I challenge myself and some days I just put on an easier one and do it. I also used to take classes (yoga and Zumba) and before my recent weight explosion, I would jog slowly around the park...

Anyway, I achieved a life-style of keeping up moderate exercise over years - just need to implement it in the realm of food!!! In the meantime, Bluebell, this is to wish you ALL THE BEST as you establish a cool new exercise habit that will keep you happy and healthy! :lol:
Ahh... relief!

"No S" has become the life-changing answer to my agonizing questions around food...

Trust in the wisdom of structure.

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Post by oolala53 » Fri Jun 30, 2017 2:10 am

Good job on no seconds with the Chinese food. I'm assuming there was still some you could have taken...
Count plates, not calories. 11 years "during"
Age 69
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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

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Post by Bluebell » Fri Jun 30, 2017 1:06 pm

Yes oolala there was plenty, I ordered whilst feeling hungry which is always a mistake! Luckily my husband came home from work and hoovered up what was left. Have cooked a homemade pasta bake today to make amends!

Elyssa thank you for your thoughtful post about exercise I do appreciate hearing your suggestions and advice. (Although I am not sure what I have is a commitment as such, not yet anyway😉) It is great that you have achieved so much by working out at home. Gyms do not appeal to me at all and I would find it very hard to regularly visit one anyway due to childcare issues, so doing it at home is a perfect solution. Long may your fitness continue, and here's hoping I carry on as well as you have😊
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

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Post by oolala53 » Fri Jun 30, 2017 7:01 pm

A little curious how the pasta bake is "making amends." Do you just see yourself being able to put less of it on your plate to start?

Boy, am I glad lunch isn't too far off, what with thinking about Chinese food and pasta. :wink:
Count plates, not calories. 11 years "during"
Age 69
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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
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Post by Bluebell » Fri Jun 30, 2017 10:03 pm

Oolala I think I meant two things, firstly it was homemade and so I knew exactly what was going in and could keep it reasonably healthy, so the opposite of a chinese takeaway in that respect. Also that I was able to dish up a sensible portion size and fill about a third of my plate with vegetables, which I try and do as a minimum. Which again was not what happened last night! Takeaway is a treat in our house, and I got a little carried away and ended up in some sort of feeding frenzy😳, however this evening I just ate in my usual way.
I hope you lasted until lunchtime, sorry for the distraction! :D
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

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Post by oolala53 » Sat Jul 01, 2017 12:53 am

I DID make it!

I got take out stuff a lot for years, but I'd usually fill 1/2 my plate with freggies, just as I would if I'd made the food myself. Not that it was completely easy knowing the leftovers were there, except that I[m so darn cheap that I loved the idea of having another meal later. Or that there weren't times the old habit of taking gargantuan portions didn't reign. All part of the curve.

Enjoy your SOMETIMES days coming up!
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

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Post by Bluebell » Sat Jul 01, 2017 6:16 am

Well done oolala! Some gaps between meals are harder than others! I like the idea of having half takeaway half veggies. Wonder if I'd have the discipline to do that...
Have a great weekend.
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

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Post by oolala53 » Sat Jul 01, 2017 6:29 am

"Wonder WHEN I'll prefer to have half take away, half veggies." :wink:
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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

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Post by Bluebell » Sun Jul 02, 2017 6:02 pm

I know, I know, it just seems far fetched for now... but Rome wasn't built in a day as they say. I'll bear it in mind...promise :wink:
Had a great weekend away with my family, enjoyed my food but didn't go crazy.
Didn't manage my 3rd lot of exercise last week, so that is definitely on the agenda this coming week.
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

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Post by oolala53 » Mon Jul 03, 2017 5:14 am

Do you add some vegetables to most lunches and dinners now? I consider that the beginning of good habits started even before No S. I can thank a few diets for that! Eventually, the habit stuck, except when I was falling off the wagon, or just rebelling. It leaves a different feeling and it's become so familiar now.

Inch by inch.
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

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Post by Bluebell » Mon Jul 03, 2017 5:44 am

Yes I do, I've always enjoyed them, and try and have them on a third of my plate when I'm eating 'normally'. I have no idea why the thought of doing that with a takeaway seems different. It actually wouldn't occur to me to do that. Hmmm weird wiring in my head! Hopefully NoS is rewiring a lot of it for me and there's always room for improvement. Next time we have takeaway I will think about this. Thank you oolala for your thought provoking comments :)
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

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Post by oolala53 » Mon Jul 03, 2017 8:04 pm

It saves money, too. I'd get two or even three meals sometimes by having the fast food with about half a plate of a mix of cooked and raw veggies (the raw is usually 2-3 cups of green leafies). But I limit the number of meals I can have fast food at per week now for other reasons.
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

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Post by Bluebell » Mon Jul 03, 2017 9:05 pm

Sounds like a win win then!
Today - success
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

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Post by Bluebell » Tue Jul 04, 2017 9:08 pm

Food - success
Exercise - a 20 min brisk walk
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

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Post by Bluebell » Wed Jul 05, 2017 7:56 pm

Food - success
Exercise - 30 min video, yay (ouch!)
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

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Post by pinkhippie » Thu Jul 06, 2017 2:08 am

Sounds like you are doing good on the exercise! That is great! I got in the veggie habit a while back and it really has made a difference. I will usually roast some broccoli or make a salad to go with pizza or chicken that we get out and bring home. I discovered that vegetables fill me up more and make me feel more satisfied so I started adding them to meals. But, I had to get away from salads and start making steamed and roasted veggies with olive oil, garlic, butter, and other seasonings. Then they become almost a delicious treat and I think the fat used in preparing them helps with satiety.

Anyway, just my ramblings on vegetables. Keep up the good work! :)

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Post by Bluebell » Thu Jul 06, 2017 8:42 pm

Thanks for your thoughts pinkhippie. I also really enjoy eating vegetables and always have them on my plate in one form or another. This evening it was roasted peppers, onion, mushroom and courgette with a homemade chilli, yummy! I am going to try and remember oolala's suggestion that I could extend this to takeaway meals.
Today was success. No formal exercise but walked the length of my (long) garden several times this evening, emptying the contents of the paddling pool onto the plants, a bucket full at a time!
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

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Post by oolala53 » Thu Jul 06, 2017 10:52 pm

I almost always have cooked (maybe frozen) and raw veggies in the house. Costco has such inexpensive greens. It takes me less than five minutes to have half a plate full that I add the take away/fast food to, when I have it. I put the rest of the fast food away right away, preferable in opaque containers, sometimes freezing it for another time when I feel rushed. Wansink says if you see it, you'll eat it! (And sometimes even when you don't see it...)
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

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Post by pinkhippie » Fri Jul 07, 2017 4:22 pm

Bluebell, yum! That sounds delicious! I have to say frozen veggies really changed the game for me. I only go grocery shopping once a week and our produce section in our fridge is not THAT big. So many of veggies used to go bad until I discovered the wonderful world of frozen. Actually I think it was Merry who first suggested that idea to me. I am eternally grateful. :)

Congratulations on your continuing successes!

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Post by Bluebell » Fri Jul 07, 2017 9:28 pm

Frozen veggies are definitely worth looking into! I am lucky enough to have a large fridge, but getting enough in to last a week is another matter. Thanks for the congrats, I feel very lucky to have found NoS.
Today - success. I had a larger breakfast than usual, it was purely because all the 'usual' size cereal bowls were in the dishwasher and I had a larger bowl, and stupidly poured in and ate more cereal. At the end I thought gosh I feel a bit overfull. Then realised what I had done! The cereal bowls are cornishware and we have 4 of the regular sized ones which were a wedding present 19 years ago and have survived. You cannot buy that size any more, only the larger ones, which I am sure must say something about portion sizes over the years.
Anyway I shall take more notice next time!
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

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Post by Bluebell » Sat Jul 08, 2017 6:29 pm

Some insights from today (good ones :))
1) I took my boys to buy a snack on the way home from their self defence class this morning. I automatically put one in the bag for my husband but not for myself. Pastries, which I have previously craved and eaten secretly. Didn't cross my mind to get one for myself today. Such a massive sense of relief that I didn't crave or want one.
2) At lunch I had put out various meats, cheeses, salads as we often do on a Saturday. I started eating a slice of white farmhouse loaf with garlic cheese spread and realised I really wasn't enjoying the taste or texture of it. Found myself going to the fridge to get some couscous that was leftover. Which I ate with prawns and lots of salad and a few crisps, and really enjoyed.
3) Dinner was a BBQ. The boys went off to roast marshmallows, I went off to clear up without a second thought.
As I sit here reflecting on these small but significant steps, I realise how far I have come with NoS. I said early on that this had the potential to be life changing, and that is proving to be true. I feel blessed to have finally found a way of eating that brings me peace of mind and an acceptance that less or different food can still be truly enjoyable and satisfying.
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

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Post by oolala53 » Sat Jul 08, 2017 10:14 pm

I think these are anything but small. They are what dieters dream of and which most dieting experience cannot deliver to any but the wise or lucky. Yay, you and NO S.
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

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Post by Bluebell » Sat Jul 08, 2017 10:18 pm

Oolala you have helped me so much to have the confidence to trust in NoS and in myself. Thank you for all of your wise words, from the bottom of my heart.ðŸ’
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

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Post by oolala53 » Sat Jul 08, 2017 10:45 pm

humbled.
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Age 69
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9/17 22.8 (flux) 3/18 22.2
2 yrs flux 6/20 22
1/21-23

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Post by Bluebell » Sun Jul 09, 2017 10:26 am

No need to be humbled oolala, you give huge support and advice on here, it really makes a difference. :)
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

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Post by Bluebell » Mon Jul 10, 2017 8:32 pm

Today - success with food.
No exercise. Willpower definitely lacking, and time constraints not helping. Looking forward to the end of term in 2 1/2 weeks time (I work in a school) with 6 wonderful weeks holidays. Stupidly busy right now and of course I need no excuse to drop exercise.
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Post by Merry » Tue Jul 11, 2017 6:26 am

Bluebell wrote: As I sit here reflecting on these small but significant steps, I realise how far I have come with NoS. I said early on that this had the potential to be life changing, and that is proving to be true. I feel blessed to have finally found a way of eating that brings me peace of mind and an acceptance that less or different food can still be truly enjoyable and satisfying.
LOVE this! Thanks so much for sharing some really great successes!
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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Post by Bluebell » Tue Jul 11, 2017 9:22 pm

Thank you Merry! You are a great cheerleader for NoS on these boards, I always find your positivity very encouraging :)
Today - success
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

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Post by oolala53 » Wed Jul 12, 2017 5:05 pm

My teaching break is over a week from Monday. (Hear deflating balloon.) I've done almost nothing productive except post here and on Spark (and climbed a local mountain a few times with a friend training for a trek) and I don't care right now. I'm trying to prepare for not allowing regret later by noticing how much I like my days. But is it the same as a heroin addict noticing how much she likes being high? That's the fear, yet I keep shooting up. I was thinking I could make myself do my minimum 4 minutes of intense exercise before I wrote this post, but guess what? I didn't. :roll: I rest too much on my laurels of being able to climb that mountain. But N day consistency would probably serve me better.

Exercise would be better overall for health, but food control is better for my mental outlook, I'd say. I never want to pit the two against each other to find out.
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

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Post by Bluebell » Wed Jul 12, 2017 9:30 pm

Well I do think that you are entitled to a few days (or more) of recovery. If you are in teaching (I think I've got that right?) then you will be exhausted come the Summer break. I am a teaching assistant so don't have all the extra stress and responsibilities that teachers carry, and I am shattered! In fact I am very much looking forward to doing very little for the first few days.
I have several projects in mind and activities to do with my boys, and friends and family to catch up with, but I shall be doing none of that until I feel rested.
The huge difference for me this year, for the first time ever I will not be including food in my list of treats. Always, holidays would mean eating whatever I wanted and whenever I wanted. I have a whole new outlook this summer, lets hope the lack of routine doesn't throw me too much.
Enjoy your rest days oolala, you have earned them! (And by the way, a few climbs of a local mountain doesn't sound very restful to me! :D)
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

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Post by oolala53 » Thu Jul 13, 2017 5:05 am

Egads. You won't believe this. I am dumbfounded at myself.

I thought I had another week of break. I was delighting in thinking of another week of having no real pressures to meet any schedule. For some reason, I looked at the school calendar tonight. We start the new school year on Monday! How can I have got this so wrong? We have three days of meetings and prep and the students start on Thursday. I will have classes of new students a week from tomorrow! And the week after that and the week after that, etc. It still hasn't really sunk in.

I think only those involved in education can grok this.

I went and bought more cherries. None eaten, though! It was symbolic of luxuriousness and freedom.

I'm going to post this on my own thread, too.

Thanks for listening.

Oh, climbing the mountain is actually just hiking up a trail or fire road. It takes about two hours round trip. And I can go back to bed when I get home!
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

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Post by Bluebell » Thu Jul 13, 2017 6:17 am

Oh oolala what a shock! That cannot be a pleasant way to return to work, poor you. Make the most of your last few days of freedom. Enjoy the symbolic cherries. Good luck.
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

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Post by Bluebell » Thu Jul 13, 2017 9:17 pm

Today - success
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

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Post by oolala53 » Thu Jul 13, 2017 9:31 pm

Kudos and thanks. I'm enjoying the cherries at a late lunch right now,
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 Bluebell » Fri Jul 14, 2017 10:15 pm

A late and large dinner out with friends. But no starter or dessert and it did all fit on one large plate. It doesn't really suit me to eat so late (9pm) I am usually done by 6pm and like to have a mini fast overnight. But lovely to catch up with good friends who I haven't seen in a long while.
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

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Post by oolala53 » Fri Jul 14, 2017 11:53 pm

I like feeling I can accommodate adjustments to the routine.
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)

Bluebell
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Post by Bluebell » Sat Jul 15, 2017 10:07 pm

oolala53 wrote:I like feeling I can accommodate adjustments to the routine.
Yes I agree, that is one of the best things about NoS, no fretting about what and when one can eat. If it fits on the plate and it is mealtime I can have it! So freeing to be able to live a normal life :D
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

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Post by Bluebell » Mon Jul 17, 2017 3:32 pm

I definitely overate this weekend and also drank too much on Saturday evening. This doesn't happen very often, I don't generally like drinking empty calories, but hey ho I shall mark it and move on. My overindulgence is reflected on the scales this morning but trying not to worry too much.
I need to give more thought to having a couple of S events at the weekend rather than just eating whatever I feel like. I don't snack at all but I could do with thinking about whether I really need seconds or sweet things at mealtimes. I have made so much progress and I feel this is the next step, but it feels like a hard one.
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

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Post by Bluebell » Tue Jul 18, 2017 9:37 pm

Today - success. Had a few comments lately noticing my weight loss which has given me a bit of a boost. I feel like I've been doing NoS forever so it helps that others have noticed the physical changes.
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

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Post by Bluebell » Wed Jul 19, 2017 9:43 pm

Today - success. Dinner was homemade chilli with rice and a glass of rose wine, its been that kind of day!
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

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Post by Bluebell » Thu Jul 20, 2017 9:19 pm

Today - success. Let my boys open a box of chocolates given to me by a lovely parent in the school where I work, I had a fleeting moment of fancying one and then it was gone. The box is on the side, I may visit it at the weekend!
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

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Post by oolala53 » Thu Jul 20, 2017 10:17 pm

Great new connections in that prefrontal cortex!
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

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Post by Bluebell » Fri Jul 21, 2017 8:39 pm

Awesome! Can't quite believe the magic NoS is working in my mind! :D
Dinner out with friends this evening but stuck to one plate, no dessert but did have a latte which felt like a treat.
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

Bluebell
Posts: 633
Joined: Thu Sep 29, 2016 7:17 pm
Location: Hampshire UK

Post by Bluebell » Sun Jul 23, 2017 9:37 pm

Enjoyed some S treats this weekend, I still wish I could plan them in better, something to work on. Although I am not snacking, I still tend to go overboard at some mealtimes. Never breakfast, that is my usual boring same old meal. But sometimes lunch and nearly always dinner. Maybe I still need that release valve at the weekends, or maybe I just ought to face up to it and make a conscious effort to do something about it, I don't know. Ponder, ponder.
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

oolala53
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Location: San Diego, CA USA

Post by oolala53 » Mon Jul 24, 2017 3:29 am

It's been about two months? Not very long, really. Are you talking aobut S days only?
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)

Bluebell
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Location: Hampshire UK

Post by Bluebell » Mon Jul 24, 2017 5:30 am

I am almost 10 months in now Oolala, and have seen amazing changes in my relationship with food. Yes, just S days where I still have that tendency to go into eating for the sake of eating mode. I guess it is the next thing I am thinking about, but maybe I should just let it be what it is?
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

Bluebell
Posts: 633
Joined: Thu Sep 29, 2016 7:17 pm
Location: Hampshire UK

Post by Bluebell » Mon Jul 24, 2017 6:15 pm

Spectacular fail this evening :( I binged on garlic bread, chocolates, a cream eclair. I gave myself permission to eat without thought or care. I haven't done this on an N day for a long time and am hoping that it is just a minor setback. I ate out of stress and tiredness and it hasn't made me feel any better. I thought I had left this destructive behaviour behind me and am sad that I allowed myself to regress.
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

TexArk
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Location: Foothills of the Ozarks

Post by TexArk » Mon Jul 24, 2017 7:19 pm

You know this stuff happens. The good news is that it is not commonplace any more, right? Don't beat yourself up. Go back and read this post when the next time comes that you want to throw caution to the wind. Maybe you will choose to go ahead or maybe you just might remember that it really didn't satisfy.

But you get to make the choice. I am having to be very attentive this week because of an overabundant S Day yesterday. I am not happy with the choice I made, but I did it. So...get back in the saddle as we say in Texas. (when you have been thrown off the horse if I need to explain).

Bluebell
Posts: 633
Joined: Thu Sep 29, 2016 7:17 pm
Location: Hampshire UK

Post by Bluebell » Mon Jul 24, 2017 7:33 pm

Thank you so much for your supportive post TexArk I really appreciate it. You are right, it really isn't commonplace these days, I just feel sad that I let it happen. I will do my best to mark it and move on. Tomorrow is a new day.
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

Bluebell
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Location: Hampshire UK

Post by Bluebell » Tue Jul 25, 2017 7:47 pm

Better day today. And the end of term finally, hurrah. I will mark as a fail because I did have a very small 'mini' dessert at our leaving lunch today, however I have felt much more in control and have not binged.
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

Bluebell
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Location: Hampshire UK

Post by Bluebell » Thu Jul 27, 2017 6:53 am

I've been having a little think about this NoS journey. Following my mini meltdown earlier in the week, I've been pondering what does and does not work for me. Upthread a bit I was debating with myself whether it was Ok to still feel the need to eat for the sake of eating on S days. I never snack on S days anymore, introduced that mod a while back and am fine with it. But at mealtimes on S days I do get in a little bit of a frenzy about eating.
Anyway I think this is OK for now. I think the pressure of trying to change rather than just accepting it is making me want to rebel in the week. I have come so far in 10 months with my attitude towards and relationship with food, I am a completely different person to the one who started this journey in October last year. I have also lost 27lbs which is amazing. So I am going to let things be, it is working and it is fine.
That was a long ramble and probably very boring, but helpful for me to set it all out.
"You'll know where the North Star is &#11088;&#65039;" - Oolala

Skycat
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Location: Germany

Post by Skycat » Thu Jul 27, 2017 8:52 am

Sometimes a bit of a ramble can really help the head to clear. I think you're right in accepting that maybe eating more at lunch and dinner on S days is just how it is for you. Nobody is perfect and you've had a really, really good loss and obviously feel better in your relationship to food. Gold medal already. :D
I CAN do this.

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