One week later...

Hi Ladies....it's one week after the end of our fitness challenge. How did you all fare on your first week of total freedom (and with it being Thanksgiving too)? I will be the first to admit that I took the week off from exercising, though I plan to restart this week. I got a terrible cold (with fever) and needed the break. I find myself eyeing a treat in the pantry and then thinking, "oh yeah, I can eat that!" And a few times, Doug has said, "oh no, it's after 8" as I am eating something. I love the habits that were started and I am going to tailor them a bit for my own life, but it starts tomorrow. I allowed myself a full week of freedom, which was nice. But to be honest, I felt better in the challenge!

Hope you are all doing well and had a happy Thanksgiving.

WE did it!

We did it! Congratulations ladies! When I woke up this morning, I thought to myself, "I'm free!".  But as the days progressed I realized how much I want to keep up these good habits I have worked so hard to form.  I was not perfect in my points, but I was fairly close.  I am proud of myself for sticking with it and for giving it my all.  I have not been very disciplined the last couple of years, so it has felt so good to actually accomplish something I started. I like how it has made me feel!

I lost 9 pounds!  It has been hard for me to be super happy with 9 pounds because I have so much more weight to lose, but I have realized I need to celebrate each pound and continue to patient in the process.  Because I have so much more weight to lose, I can't really be "free" of this challenge.  I am going to modify it a bit and stick with it.  I am going to exercise 4x's a week, I am going to have 1 free day and have another day where I can have a dessert and eat after 8.  I am not going to eat after 8 unless there is a special occasion. 

I am also grateful for the spiritual component of the challenge.  I realized that scripture study is possible and that it is an important party of my day.

Also, it has been fun to be part of this with such a fun and supportive group.  I had many opportunities to work out in different ways and with different people and it was fun.  I loved that my life was focused on fitness and health and that other people were sharing that experience. 

Finally, I have challenged myself mentally.  I ran/walked a 15.2 miles. WE started at Battery Park City and ended up near Ft. Tyron Park at the top of Manhattan. I ran more of it than I ever thought I could.  I realized I am capable of more than I really thought possible.

Thanks to Rebecca and thanks to all of you. 

At the end of our half/marathon past the George Washington Bridge. 

CONGRATULATIONS!

Congratulations dear friends for finishing the final week of our Fall Fitness Challenge! I hope you found the past eight weeks to be of great benefit to you, both physically and spiritually. I am hoping that you will each take a moment to share some brief thoughts on the goals you accomplished. I know that many of you lost a bit of weight, or developed some good habits, or got rid of some not so good habits, for that matter. I, and the rest of us, want to hear about your successes! Don't be afraid to brag a bit. You have every right to tell us how amazing you are! How are you a better person after these eight weeks? Please either respond to the google group or feel free to post here on the blog.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Rebecca

Run/Walk the Miles...

Found this website that can measure the miles on any route. Perfect for our half marathon goal this week! It's great, just click "Start Mapping" - enter either your city or zip and it will take you to your neck of the woods. Then mark the various points and it automatically gives you the total distance! I was even able to track a route in Central Park and along Riverside/Hudson parkway...kind of fun!

Check it out:

http://www.mapmyrun.com/

Good luck going the distance!

Ideas on eating 5 meals/day

This week may require some major preparation and planning, so I did some research I thought I'd share. The 5-small meals weekly challenge appears to be a great way to change up our metabolism, control appetite and blood sugar levels as well as further improve eating habits. In looking online I found the following tips on how to plan food and eating smaller meals multiple times a day. Anyone else find any helpful ideas?

LiveStrong suggests to write down the TIME you plan to eat each small meal (i.e. at 7 am, 10 am, 1 pm, 4 pm, 7 pm) and create a meal PLAN (with two back up ideas so your food is ready every 2-3 hours).

http://www.livestrong.com/article/200706-how-to-eat-five-small-meals-a-day-to-lose-weight/
http://www.ehow.com/how_2304328_eat-six-meals-per-day.html
http://www.quinnthemighty.com/how-to-eat-5-6-small-meals-per-day/

Here's one lady's idea for a meal plan:
Breakfast/Meal #1:
1 fruit, 1/2 C. V8 juice, 1 cup of herbal tea with lemon and a bit of honey, 2 oz. protein (i.e. turkey sausages, oatmeal or soy yogurt)
Meal #2:
1 fruit, 2 oz. protein (i.e. sliced baked chicken, turkey, or fish), a small piece sourdough bread/half baked potato or 1/2 C. rice/pasta, 1 vegetable or dip (i.e. hummus, guacamole, salsa, salad, steamed asparagus or broccoli, etc)
Meal #3:
2 oz. protein, 2 veggies, 1 fruit
Meal #4:
2 oz. protein, 1 veggies, 1 serving of grain
Meal #5:
2 oz. protein, 1 fruit, 1 veggie

Sugar video on YouTube

Ditto...I feel the same way about our candy and stood staring at the hidden stash in the cupboard, hoping, wishing, thinking about that sweetness. Ah, this is certainly not easy! I thought everything might be easier by the sixth week! I guess the strength, muscles and spiritual balance has increased. Yay! (Really...that is a huge something to be thankful for!) Yet I thought my will power and desires might have had leaps and bounds of improvement too. I still have to convince myself to workout every day. I still have to talk myself into not eating that chocolate I have hidden in my closet for my free day. :) Is it always going to be a battle?

I looked up some definitions to help convince myself:
discipline -- the practice of training to obey rules or a code of behavior
will power -- control deliberately exerted to do something or to restrain one's own impulses

Again, I'm SO thankful we're doing this challenge to help me PRACTICE living better nutritional rules and to help me restrain and control myself more in healthier ways. Thanks gals! We have 17 more days to practice and train ourselves in these fitness ways.

And...Just in time to try and fight the post-Halloween candy cravings I'm currently having, my friend sent me this lecture from an MD at UCSF who discusses the role of sugar (and HF corn syrup) in our bodies & foods. It's long, but interesting (I wish we had just the condensed notes!) Wonderful info as we tackle the weight loss and overcome cravings. I understand my love of sweet things so much more now...

Enjoy if you dare. :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dBnniua6-oM

Sugar: The Bitter Truth

www.youtube.com

Robert H. Lustig, MD, UCSF Professor of Pediatrics in the Division of Endocrinology, explores the damage caused by sugary foods. He argues that fructose (too much) and fiber (not enough) appear to be cornerstones of the obesity epidemic through their effects on insulin. Series: UCSF Mini Medical Sch...

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Is it Saturday yet?

I don't know about you all, but this week has been brutal. I took my free day last saturday, and that was my first mistake. Halloween sunday was just painful... resisting all that candy and all the cupcakes that I have left over in my house. I think I need to just throw it all away, because I feel like I am just re-living Halloween day, everyday over here. It's so much easier to not eat treats when you don't have them staring at you from the kitchen counter, or from on top of the fridge. Eating fruit is all fine and good, and it's nice to get a little sweetness throughout the day, but I'm not gonna lie... all I really want right now, is a big, fat, freshly baked chocolate chip cookie. Mmmmmmm!!! I know I can (and will) make it to Saturday, but sometimes I just don't want to, you know? Kay, that's all. Sorry, not a very inspiring post. Just had to vent a little. :)

Halloween Candy and Veggie Recipes

Well I have managed to avoid Halloween Candy yesterday and today.  I think the hard part is next week . . . especially when Elizabeth is in school and Al is down for a nap  - and those two bags of candy staring me in the face.  About the only thing I can do is ignore it and make sure the kids eat it - fast!  How are you all planning on avoiding it?  Sheer will power and gritted teeth?

I have been meaning to post since the vegetable challenge week.  Rebecca asked for recipes.  My recipes are not exact but my kids eat them so that is good.

Veggie Soup
My mom made this all the time it is a great way to use a lot of veggies.

Start with broth.  I use beef or chicken bullion added to water.
Then add whatever you have.  The following is a list of what I sometimes put in.
Potatoes
Sweet Potatoes
Peas
Carrots
Celery
lentils
black beans
white beans
kidney beans
pinto beans
corn
onions
really anything you have.  It is also nice if you have leftover chicken or beef and throw that in - makes my husband happier when I do!

Ok, I am going to have to post the other two or three recipes I have later tonight or tomorrow. AJ just woke up - he is working on two more teeth.  Wish me luck tonight :).

"Recapture Real Beauty" Idea

A little "food for thought" - Check this out for a refreshing thought about Beauty... (from BYU)

The purpose of the BYU 10-Day challenge is to offer one exercise each day that will encourage participants to address the way they view themselves and help them develop a greater love and appreciation for who they are as divine beings. The exercises presented in the challenge are designed to shift our focus away from the messages of the world and into a place from within; a place where we are completely conscious of what true beauty is. As we continue to practice and develop these types of exercises that focus on discovering beauty from within, we can feel at peace with ourselves and appreciate the blessed gift that our bodies are.

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure... We ask ourselves: ‘Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and famous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world.” -Nelson Mandela

The "full calendar" document on the website is really encouraging. It has some wonderful thoughts, scriptures and ideas about our habits, self-talk and recapturing beauty. Maybe we explore this idea more in early December after the fitness challenge?
http://recapturingbeauty.byu.edu/challenge/

an answer to an unsaid prayer

Having just moved to New York with lots and lots of debt (of the student loan and consumer variety) I have been struggling to manage on a budget, but somehow, I'm doing it for the first time in my life. And by "doing it" I mean living paycheck to paycheck as I pay off my debt. So, the settling into my new life has been slow.

One of the things that I was really having a hard time with was not having a gym membership. After belonging to 24 Hour Fitness forever, I was only paying $52 a year (yes, A YEAR) when I moved from Provo to New York. So, you can imagine how disheartening it was to realize that a gym membership was likely out of my financial reach. And while I do like exercising outside, my work hours, daylight hours, and the weather often make that difficult. Not to mention the fact that I started going to a gym when I was 16 and there is something I seriously love about being surrounded by other people who are also working out. (I realize that not everyone feels this way.)

Which brings me to my small miracle, which I will call a tender mercy. While interning in New York last  summer (2009), I got a corporate summer membership to NYSC. It was a manageable price for the 3 months I was out here. I considered getting another corporate membership, but at twice the monthly cost of my summer membership, I just couldn't do it. Well, today I got a phone call from a random number. The person left me a voicemail telling me that I had been selected for a special membership rate. No registrations fees. No contract. Just one low (for New York) monthly price for all hours access to all NYSCs.

And the budget was rearranged (cable is going to have to wait) and the gym membership was purchased and the angels did rejoice!

"Post Free Day" Pep-Talk

My third "free day" has come and gone. Its like saying farewell to a dear friend... you don't want them to go, but trust you'll see them again, hopefully soon, once again to enjoy their company. (Adieu, sweet desserts, sigh.) So, I'm giving myself another pep-talk to gear up for the week ahead. To try and stay motivated for the challenge of eating right, avoiding the "less-desirable" things, drinking the water, reading scriptures and exercising everyday! Yay, we can do it!!

I think of the reasons I'm doing this fitness challenge. Health. Balance. Improving my habits to do the things I know I ought to do anyway - but haven't had the willpower lately to do solo. So, I put my money down to say to myself: "I'm committed to this!" Like a 5K, this motivates me to a bigger goal that includes more than myself. The social support is super helpful right now. This Challenge is an opportunity to exercise spiritually and physically, grow stronger, to build my character and my life.

Some days its hard (the longing for a sweet treat, the minimal desire to workout). Yet these habit-changes are not going to get any easier later in life...so I want to instill more solid healthy habits now. I want to sustain many of these important foundational things for a lifetime.

Everyone's doing this Challenge for various reasons, so please share your "pep-talks" for what keeps you going. I think it's great to post ideas, thoughts, and uplifting group-talk as we approach the middle of the challenge 4-week mark. Thanks for the support, your wonderful thoughts and tips and sharing your motivation! It's truly great to help one another in this lifestyle-improvement "adventure."

Let's just say that being on vacation all week long didn't bode well for me this past week...AT ALL. I headed to D.C. with every intention of staying on track and it just didn't happen. It's a little depressing how much I reverted back to my old habits this past week but it has made me that much more motivated to keep up the healthy habits that this challenge is forcing me to do. I realized that right now, while implementing these changes such as not eating after 8pm, I need to do a LOT of planning. It completely threw me off being out of my environment, having dinners that STARTED at 8pm, and trying to eat the way I needed to in someone else's kitchen. My little controlled environment here in NYC definitely helps me.

I'm so impressed with all of you who had perfect scores once again this week...you are very inspiring to me. I'm proud of ALL of us, no matter what our scores are, because atleast we're earning some points from week to week, whether it's 43, 30, or my very dismal 16. There. I told you all (not that you wouldn't have seen it any way).

Keep up the great work!!!

Drink Your Veggies

Maybe if I ate all my spinach, I would be as cute as my niece, Lu. This is Lulu with a spinach smoothie moustache--and Lu belongs to my sister, Jamie Calder, who is a superstar in this fitness challenge, btw.

I was going to write this post earlier too, but the week got away from me. Like Morgan, one of my secrets for getting my veggies in is blending them in my smoothie for breakfast. The great thing about spinach is that the taste is so light that you can blend it with almost anything and you can't taste it much. I have a bunch of combos, but my go-to is a banana, frozen berries, almond milk, and a handful of spinach. This has been a life-saver this week since by breakfast I had already knocked out at least one veggie serving.

Another veg smoothie that I like is this one that uses carrots and orange juice. This Times writer has tons of great smoothie ideas, some with veggies some not: http://www.nytimes.com/2010/05/07/health/nutrition/07recipehealth.html?ref=nutrition

I started experimenting with veggie smoothies when I discovered the wonders of spinach a while ago, and came up with some decent combos:

cantaloupe + spinach+kefir/yogurt+mint

And some more hardcore "swamp juice" options:

apple + cucumber+spinach +lemon +ginger
pear + cucumber+spinach+celery

This is so late in the week it's not so helpful now, but if you want try to include some more veggies in your diet going forward this is a good way to do it. Work up to the swamp juice, though. I admit I have given myself a tummy ache before!

ps. Morgan, I'm excited to try your green drink. Would love to hear any other smoothie combos; I'm always looking for more!

Getting veggies in...

Ok, so I meant to do this post earlier in the week as well, but it just never happened. Better late than never. For the weekly challenge this week, I decided to try some new recipes to get my vegetables in a little more creatively. The first one I tried was a potato, squash and goat cheese gratin. Now I have never been a fan of squash. Seriously, do. not. like. it!! But I love potatoes and goat cheese, so I thought I would try it again for the sake of the challenge. Plus the picture of it looks so lovely and colorful, and I wanted to make it. So make it I did, and let me tell you, I am still not a fan of squash. Sick sick sick. But, my husband loved it and had it for lunch the next day. I still ate it (choked it down is more like it) so I could get my veggies in, but it was not enjoyable. However, I know most people love squash, so I thought I would share it. I hope you enjoy it.

The second recipe I tried was a vegetable beef soup, which I found in my Better Homes and Gardens cook book (and just happened to find the same one online). First of all, it was in the crockpot, which I love, and secondly, it was so easy and fast, and finally, it was actually quite tasty. So tasty that I probably got 6 servings of vegetables just from eating this soup, seeing as how I had 3 bowls of it! This soup was so easy and delicious that I will probably add it to my regular meal rotation, not that I have one, per se, but you know what I mean.

The other thing that I have done this week to get my veggies in is make the green drink. This concoction sounds disgusting, but it is surprisingly not that bad. I used to make it for breakfast until I got pregnant and couldn't stomach it. But now I am bringing it back, and it is such a good way to get lots of greens into your diet and feel super healthy. Take spinach, cucumber, sprouts, avocado, grapefruit, lemon, almond milk, and a couple of ice cubes and blend away. You can put in whatever amounts you want, but I find that 1 or 2 cups of spinach, 1/2 a cucumber, 1/2 cup of sprouts, half an avocado, a whole grapefruit and lemon and about 3/4-1 C almond milk is about right. I also sweeten it with stevia. I know, it sounds gross, but try it, you will be surprised. Or maybe not. You might hate it. :)

What counts as a vegetable?

So, I probably should have posed this question earlier on.  I had this question earlier in the week when I wanted to have a bake potato and count it towards my 5 a day.  I had remembered hearing that a potato doesn't count (even though it is a vegetable).  I did a quick search on good and found a website that said it doesn't count towards your daily servings of vegetables and is considered a starch.  So, I just went along with that website.  Anyway, the discussion came up again yesterday when discussing if a chick pea was a vegetable.  So, I did a little more research tonight.  There are many websites claiming that a potato doesn't count, but what do they know?  The all knowing government says it does, so I think we should go with that.  I am sorry if I caused confusion to anyone out there.  Here is a list of vegetables and sub categories according the government.   Here is the link http://www.mypyramid.gov/pyramid/vegetables.html  I, don't think french fries count, though.  But, what do I know?  I didn't even think a chick pea was a vegetable.
 

What foods are in the vegetable group?

Any vegetable or 100% vegetable juice counts as a member of the vegetable group. Vegetables may be raw or cooked; fresh, frozen, canned, or dried/dehydrated; and may be whole, cut-up, or mashed.

Vegetables are organized into 5 subgroups, based on their nutrient content. Some commonly eaten vegetables in each subgroup are:

Dark green vegetables bok choy broccoli collard greens dark green leafy lettuce kale mesclun mustard greens romaine lettuce spinach turnip greens watercress Orange vegetables acorn squash butternut squash carrots hubbard squash pumpkin sweetpotatoes Dry beans and peas black beans black-eyed peas garbanzo beans (chickpeas) kidney beans lentils lima beans (mature) navy beans pinto beans soy beans split peas tofu (bean curd made from soybeans) white beans	Starchy vegetables corn green peas lima beans (green) potatoes Other vegetables artichokes asparagus bean sprouts beets Brussels sprouts cabbage cauliflower celery cucumbers eggplant green beans green or red peppers iceberg (head) lettuce mushrooms okra onions parsnips tomatoes tomato juice vegetable juice turnips wax beans zucchini

RECIPES, WORKOUTS and BALANCE

If you feel so inclined, I'd love to hear what you have to say about the following topics this week.

1. RECIPES: What are you cooking this week? Since our weekly
challenge has to do with food, I think this would be a great time to
share new recipes that include vegetables or just simply tell us how
you're getting your 5 servings of veggies in. Please don't give us a
food journal log of what you've eaten each day, but if you made
something outstanding, please share the recipe. Or, if you have some
tips that might help the rest of us as far as great ways to eat
veggies, share away!

2. WORKOUTS: I would love to hear an update on your workouts! What
are you doing each day and are you really challenging yourself so that
when the 8 weeks is over (we only have six weeks left!) you feel like
you've made a difference in your physical health? What is working for
you so you can fit this into your busy schedules? Are any of you
interested in group workouts/runs (in NYC?) For those of you in other
areas, please feel free to get together as well!

3. BALANCE: How does one find balance in their life? We're all striving for it and sometimes we feel like we have it. Other times that's not the case. What words of wisdom can you share on this topic?

7 HOURS OF SLEEP A NIGHT

You still two nights to get a full seven hours of sleep at night. How has this challenge been for you? Personally, I am one of those people who needs a good amount of rest, so I have to make this happen otherwise I don't function all too well during the day. Many of you expressed how this was going to be a hard challenge for you because of various reasons - babies, insomnia, work schedule and getting in your work-out before you leave in the morning, etc. I'm interested in hearing how getting a full nights rest has helped you, if at all. When I am well rested, and for me that means getting at least seven to eight hours of sleep, I function so much better during the day.

Let me and the rest of the group know how the weekly challenge has gone for you this week!

And feel free to share any other insights to how the other elements of the challenge are going for you!

Week 1 update

Still waiting to hear back from 10 or so people with their week 1 totals. I will have the list posted by tomorrow morning sometime. Thanks for being patient!

WEEKLY CHALLENGES

For you to reference during the next seven weeks:

In order to get all 7 points for this category each week, you must complete the challenge for six of the seven days during that particular week. If you do this, you will get six daily points, plus an additional 1 bonus point for a total of seven points. Even if you only miss one day, you will only receive five points instead of the possibly seven. I hope this makes sense to everyone!

WEEKLY CHALLENGES:

Week 1: Keep a food journal
Week 2: 7 hours of sleep per night
Week 3: 5 servings of vegetables per day
Week 4: Drink 64 fluid ounces of water per day
Week 5: 100 sit-ups & 50 push-ups per day (doesn't necessarily have to be done in one sitting. Try 5 sets of 20 sit-ups & 10 push-ups throughout the day)
Week 6: 4 servings of fruit per day
Week 7: 5 small meals per day
Week 8: Run/Walk at least 1/2 marathon (this doesn't have to be completed at one time, but can be done in small increments throughout the week to add up to 13.1 miles)

Week One is Almost Done

Just checking in....How did week 1 go? What have been your struggles? What have been your triumphs? How is your body feeling after doing all that exercise? Have your sugar withdrawls been bad or manageable?

For me, week one went pretty well. I decided to have tomorrow (Sunday) be my free day. Homemade apple crisp with vanilla ice cream is on the menu to be enjoyed after conference. I can't wait! My body is actually quite sore from a mixture of running two days, elliptical one day and two different aerobic/strength training videos the other days. Let's just say it's been a while since I've done muchas squats and my booty and legs are feeling it. I love it though.

• What have you been doing for your workouts this week?
• What substitutes for desserts have you used to keep yourself satisfied?
• Any other insights regarding food journaling?

Please don't forget to send me your points for week 1 by tomorrow night. Let's make 9pm est the deadline. ***For this week, please e-mail just me your points. I'll have the list of everyone's points posted on the blog before I go to bed so you can see who your competition is.

Also, is everyone clear about the point system?

Worth Mentioning

So this has nothing to do with our little challenge, but it's worth mentioning (for the New Yorkers & Delawareans) at least. This weekend and next week at BAM (Brooklyn Academy of Music), Pina Bausch Tanztheater Wuppertal will be performing, Vollmond (Full Moon). Here's the link with a short video of the performance. I promise I'm not a marketing rep for BAM, but I highly recommend seeing Pina Bausch's work sometime during your lifetime. Her work is truly stunning.

Just thought you should know.

http://www.bam.org/view.aspx?pid=2226

THE POINT SYSTEM

Here's how it works.....

DAILY POINTS-

Each of the following will earn you ONE point per day, plus ONE bonus point per week if you don't miss a day:

No Desserts (6 points possible for six days, plus 1 point bonus = 7 possible per week)
No Soda (6 pts. possible for six days, plus 1 = 7 possible per week)
No Eating after 8pm (6 pts possible for six days, plus 1 = 7 possible per week)
Exercising (30 minutes or more of ) (5 pts. possible for 5 days, plus 1 = 6 possible per week)
Scriptures (at least 1 chapter) (6 pts. possible for six days, plus 1 = 7 possible per week)
Weekly Challenge (6 pts. possible for six days, plus 1 = 7 possible per week)

You may choose what day is your "free" day for. That is your day to eat dessert (if you choose) and/or drink soda (once again, if you choose).


WEEKLY POINTS-


There are TWO more points possible each week for the following:

ONE point per week for Weight Loss - if you've lost at least one pound, or maintained your ideal weight, you get a point.
ONE point per week for Family Home Evening.

THAT MAKES A TOTAL OF 43 POINTS POSSIBLE PER WEEK.

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT SO WE CAN CLARIFY. I WANT EVERYONE TO BE ON THE SAME PAGE ABOUT POINTS!!!

WEEKLY CHALLENGE #1 - KEEPING A FOOD JOURNAL

I don't know about you, but this is the first time in my life that I've ever written down what I've eaten each day. Let's just say, I've realized that I like carbohydrates maybe more than I should. Today it was wheat thins, yesterday it was pretzels. (thanks, Ashley!) I'm realizing more and more each day that this challenge is all about awareness for me. And hopefully you too. Realistically speaking, I'm pretty sure I won't continue to record everything that I eat after this week, but hopefully I will make those mental notes and stop myself if it's not something I really need to be munching on.

Here are a few websites/templates to help you keep track of the calories and other nutritional values of your diet.

www.my-calorie-counter.com/

http://www.realsimple.com/static/pdfs/foodjournal.pdf

How's the record keeping going for you? Any tips or realizations you want to share?

TEAM PLAYERS

I'd like to think of doing this challenge with a TEAM of people. We're here to motivate, inspire and give each other support. I know I couldn't do this alone and I'm so pumped that so many of you were willing to do this with me! I'm sure you've been reading the ones that were sent to the google group, however, many of you sent them just to me so here's who's in.

I'm Rebecca Jennejohn, a 33 year old mother of two amazing little girls. I live in NYC, am passionate about the art of dance and movement, and I have a weakness for anything with chocolate & peanut butter. I love the way I feel when I eat healthy and exercise, but following through everyday with this is not always my best asset. Plus, I’ve been wanting to claim back my waistline! Arms and thighs are other target areas that I will be working on as well as kicking my sweet tooth habit & becoming more diligent in my study of the scriptures.

I am Shauna Summers, 44 years old. My main focus for the challenge is the no desserts part and I’m working up the will to address my Diet Coke situation, which is pretty severe. I’m nervous about the withdrawals when I’m trying to address the lack of treats, and you know, be at least semi-functional at work, but hoping I can experiment with weaning off and/or maybe relying on Excedrin to cover the rough patches…

My name is Catherine, I live in NYC, and I am ready for this challenge. I recently cleared out my closet with advice from a friend. Sadly, much of what remains does not fit me - but it used to - one year ago. I am determined to fit these clothes - there is no viable reason why I don't fit them now. My goal is to modify the way I eat, why I eat, and (in all honesty) how much I eat. I love ice cream and pancakes (the latter is a dessert for me during these upcoming 8 weeks!) and carry that affection with me. I also kid myself that my 5 mile roundtrip walk to work is serious exercise. I expect to sweat. I haven't had FHE since I helped my Mom pick out the hymns; I like the idea and will seek out others who may be in my same position (single). I love thinking of all these physical challenge requirements in tandem with spirituality; they are connected and I hope to feel that even more. My age? You'll think I'm 5 years younger than I am in 8 weeks!!!

My name is Lynda Todd and I've lived in NYC for 5 years. I have a 3 year old son and a 1 year old daughter and I am 37 years old. Sweets or overeating are not my problem, my problem is actually living my life in a productive healthy way. I fit in food after the kids are done with whatever they are doing - sometimes that is after 9 pm! I skip exercise because I haven't figured out how to carve out the time in a busy children-focused life. Scriptures - what!? I'm asleep before I can can get to the 2nd sentence. There are many things I can do to improve my life, which is then a blessing for my family, and I am ready! I'm certain I won't have a chance to win this one, but if it helps me start what I've been wanting to start - a healthier lifestyle - then this is worth way more than the $25 I paid to join. A little "good" peer pressure and a kick in the butt to start is what we all need.

Hi, I'm Angie! I'm a busy marketing director and graphic designer who loves word games, oatmeal, and comfortable shoes. No, I am not a senior citizen. And just to prove it, I'm doing this challenge! I'm desperately seeking balance in my life, after a string of "asleep at the wheel" months: mindless snacking (bingeing), working late, and snoozing through my daily "get up and run" alarm. I certainly have my vices (diet cola among them), but I CAN throw down a healthy meal in the kitchen and when provoked, can become fiercely competitive. So, look out (for the girl in the Birkenstocks)!

I'm Anna, a 35 year old mother of 4 who lives in northern Virginia. I was in great shape about six months ago. I worked out hard and diligently on an almost daily basis at the gym, ate little meat, lots of veg, etc. I was training for a half marathon and injured my foot which really set me back, and then to make matters worse we moved cross country and the move killed what remained of my good habits. I am wanting to regain some of my former discipline and once and for all get my sugar craving under control. I just want to regain some good habits and am not really concerned with weight loss (although that would be a bonus) and regain some of my strength. Additionally, I need to dive into a scripture study habit and regain some balance in my life.

I am Julianne Parmenter. By the end of the 8 weeks, I will be 29 years old! I've got two daughters, one in Kindergarten and the other in 1st grade. Finding a balance physically and spiritually isn't very easy for me. I eat for motivation to get through the day...where I may get scripture reading in. But if I watch what I'm eating, it's all I can think about and nothing else gets done!! That's when the emotional takes over! AHHHH! I am hoping to feel better in all areas come November, shedding at least 5 lbs and making personal scripture study a habit. I've also got my 10 year high school reunion and a wedding that I am in 2 of the 8 weekends, so this will help me stay focused and not over indulge...maybe?!

Brandy Anderson: 37-year-old mother of five (feels like eight) kids

Delaware transplant (and happy!)

Passionate about motherhood...

Goal -- to fit ME into the motherhood through more consistent exercise and thoughtful eating (ie. no more eating on the run, eating from a glass, or spilling on my shirts because I don't take the time to sit)

Heidi Foss - I'm 34 years old, mother of two children (3 1/2 yr old and 9-mo old). Moved to NYC a year ago for husband's grad school, had a baby and adjusted to the city-life...so I've had a lot of emotional-eating this year and I'm ready to change my daily habits for better health and spiritual/physical balance! My weakness: quality chocolate treats. But last night I went through the cupboards, cleaned out the bad sweets, threw half of it in the garbage (filled a small tupperware put on a high shelf for my free day), leaving only healthy goods on the snack shelf. I am very excited to exercise and read scriptures more diligently and make these much needed improvements in my life.

Ashley Beck - I'm 28 yeard old, mother of a 2-year-old boy and 5-month-old girl. We moved to NYC at the beginning of the summer for grad school. For some reason, I thought that just walking everywhere and not having a car would get me in to the shape I want to be in but that's not quite the case :) My problem is sweets...especially home-baked goods and candy. And I'll definitely eat whenever I'm bored. I'm so excited for this challenge to be accountable to other people instead of just myself. You're all motivating and inspiring me! My goals are to lose the rest of my baby weight and actually be somewhat excited to get in a bathing suit some time in the future. The best part of this challenge for me will be getting back in the habit of reading my scriptures daily.

My name is Mackenzie. I have two boys - one is almost 5 and the other is

almost 2. I have lived in NYC for the past 8 years. I recently turned 33

and I feel a change in my body (not in a good way!). Or maybe that change is a result of spending the last year eating candy and drinking soda, two things that have never interested me before. Now I am addicted to both and this challenge will help me kick those habits. Also, on the spiritual side, I am excited to reinstate some much-needed goals of regular scripture study and FHE. I think I may be most excited about this part actually. This past year has been a tough one for me in many ways and I have coped by eating junk. I am reaping the consequences. BUT....no more! I turned over a new leaf today! Looking forward to hearing updates from everyone.

Johanna Talbott - I am 28 years old and have lived in the city for the last 8 years. As well as being a mom of two (three year old girl, 19 month boy) I have a very busy husband with a work schedule that could be anything from 8am to midnight for three weeks in a row to no work for a month. This has made it very hard for me to organize meal times, exercise times, scripture reading, etc.! But lately I have been thinking of my mom and how she did it with seven children. My dad sometimes had a very hectic work schedule; If she could hold FHE, feed us right, and exercise I can too! I am about 20 lbs away from my ideal weight and hope to be much closer in 8 weeks! I am excited about working with a group and getting inspiration and ideas from all of you!

Hi everyone! I am Emilee Palmer, 25 year old mother of 3 boys. I have always loved fitness but it seems like it is quickly getting away from me as well as my body. I hope to trim down from my last baby and tone up. As a mom it is so easy to put all your energy into your kids and let go of the things that make you feel vibrant and happy. I am extremely excited to study the scriptures more diligently and make them more apart of my daily life to become better all around. Balance really is the key to a happy life and that is my goal by taking on this fitness challenge! Good Luck to all of you!

I'm Emily Nelson. I have lived in New York now for 8 years. I have 2 boys who are 5 and 3. I have gained 60 pounds in the last 5 years. Over the last couple of years, my weight has gone up and down and I am tired of it. I am hoping that this challenge will help me to stay motivated. I have a severe weakness for baked goods. I am also excited for the motivation to read my scriptures as I am in need of a spiritual boost. Good Luck!

I'm Marin, and I'm getting married in December:) I've been wanting to start some kind of exercise/eating program in order to feel and look my best for the big day. This challenge came at the perfect time, and targets the very things I struggle with: eating at night and desserts (usually together, i.e. oreo binges while watching Letterman). I think just sticking to the few guidelines suggested will make a big difference. So, here we go!

My name is Emily Trefethen. I am a new Delawarian as of 4 months ago. In the process of moving and remodeling our kitchen and moving we have eaten out a lot and I have some extra baggage I have got to get rid of! I am a big soda drinker and dessert junkie. I am super motivated by contests so I think this is the perfect way to get me going!

I'm Melissa Atkin, I live in NYC, and I'm totally addicted to sugar :). I eat candy EVERY day...swedish fish and chewy sweetarts are my drug of choice. This challenge will definitely give me added motivation to overcome my daily need for "something sweet." Most of the other categories are usually part of my routine, but this challenge is prompting me to host FHE for the first time EVER! Love it!

My name is Chloe Andersen. I just moved to New York about three months ago. I have always struggled with both my weight and finding balance (physically and spiritually) in my life, so this seemed like a great, habit-forming, non-obsessively-weight-loss-focused challenge. I'm a total carbohydrate addict, so I've added "no white flour" to my goals for the next 8 weeks. We'll see how it goes! Great to be a part of this with everyone!

My name is Jennette, I am 34yrs old, I'm a mother of 4 kids (ages 9 to 18mos) and I now live in Delaware. I'm excited for the challenge of the game. I'm looking forward to finding some discipline when it comes avoiding sweets and in organizing my time so that exercise becomes a daily habit. I'm also looking forward to breaking up the close relationship that I have with the Costco bulk-sized bags of Peanut M&Ms.

I am Sariah Toronto, New York is more home than anywhere, I love to be physically active and I also love food. With this challenge I hope to become more mindful about what and how I eat...to keep hold of the pleasure and enjoyment and sociability that make food such an important part of life, but to let go of food that I'm not eating for nourishment and true enjoyment. Nice to be in this together with all of you!!

I'm Sunny Clark. I live in New York City with two kids and a husband. Everyone seems very nice and has noble goals for this fitness challenge but I'm in it to win it. Plus I'll feel better if I can lose 8 pounds in the next eight weeks so my oldest daughter stops thinking there is another baby inside my belly. I used to love eating ice cream and chocolate sauce every night before bed. And now I love drinking water for a late night snack.

My name is Ryan Todd and I've lived in NYC for 5 years. I just turned 34 and I'm the father of two. My wife is actually writing this because I've had a long day at work (still there) but I wanted to submit to the blog. I've always been a well-balanced person with a very healthy lifestyle. Life in New York, or shall I say, work in New York has made it difficult to find the time and energy to keep up a regular work out. Add in two kids and there is even less time and energy to spare. My wife and I want to get back into a healthy routine and hopefully this will kick start us back together.

My name is Lizza. I live in Pasco Washington with my hard working husband and four boys ages 7-3. My husband and have been doing a weight loss program for the last six weeks. I struggled this last week so when my sister in law passed this along to me I felt that this is what I needed to finish my goals. Thanks Morgan. I'm excited to see if I can stick with it. Good luck.

I am Emily Poll, a 27 year old working professional in NYC. I love to run & work out, but after my last marathon, have taken way too long of a break and am craving a healthy lifestyle once again. I love to bake...the problem just happens to be that making an entire cake or a whole batch of cookies is going a little overboard for just me and my husband! I also am a night owl...and the midnight cravings for baked goods or chocolate need to end. I am so excited for this challenge to help motivate me to have more meaningful scripture study, give up my sweet cravings, stop eating late at night, & just feel more healthy & energetic. I am especially glad knowing that we are all in this together! Good luck to everyone!

My name is Morgan Olson, I am a 28 year old stay at home mom of 3 crazy boys. We have lived in NY for a little over 2 years. I love being a mom, but find that what makes me, me, is slowly being taken over by the needs of the kiddos. I am hoping to take care of myself a bit more with this challenge. I have a HUGE sweet tooth, especially with chocolate. I love to bake, and that is definitely not helping me to eat less desserts. I am so excited for the spiritual aspect of this, and the challenge to be better at planning and executing family home evening. I still have a bit (a lot) of baby weight to get off, so I am hoping to make some progress with that, tone up a bit, and just get my body moving in general. I am also thrilled to be doing this with everyone involved. I love the idea of having such a large support group and being in this together.

My name is Lane and I am fond of treats, reading books, and finding new places to eat treats. Unfortunately only one of these (sort of) fits into the fitness challenge. Earlier this year I had a very difficult break-up with Diet Coke, which had nursed me through good times and bad, and got me through grad school, for which I will always be grateful. I'm hoping that will give me the hope and strength that I need to meet these challenges. I live in NYC--an excellent place for treats.

I'm Jamie Anderson Calder. I'm 32 years old. I've lived in a handful of places, including NYC, but have recently planted my roots in Palo Alto, CA, with my husband and my 10 month old little slice of heaven. I'm about 5-feet-nothing tall and the thing I like most in life is to have fun! In the immortal words of Cat (for all you Real Housewives fans), "I'm here for a good time, not a long time." For me, having a good time means looking and feeling my personal best in all facets of my life. I find that if I look, act, and feel my best (easier said than done), then it's easy for me to actually be my best self (also easier said than done). Right now I'm pretty sure I'm not even close, probably slightly above my average self. What do I want to get out of this adventure? I'd like to lose a few pounds, but nothing major. I'd like to get into the habit of personal scripture study. I'd like to be proud of my thighs. I don't really have any major weaknesses, unless I'm traveling (which I seem to do quite often)...then it's a free for all. I can undo 6 months worth of personal work in about 6 days. In my former life I was a Justin Timberlake groupie. I think he'd be quite disappointed in me now, and tell me to bring the sexy back (to which I would also add bring the spiritual back)! So maybe that will be my daily mantra or something. Cheers!

My name is Andrea & I have lived in NYC for 5 years. I wanted to do the challenge for several reasons, none of which are that noble.

1) I just like to compete. Anytime there is a competition I have to be apart of it.

2) I hate to miss out on anything. If there is a party or fitness challenge I want in.

3) It would be nice to have some extra spending cash. I am not saying I plan on winning, but I work for a Hedge Fund and I have been trained well to be incentivized by money.

4) I want to regain a better balance in my life. My job is demanding & sometimes it can be difficult to fit a workout or FHE into my week. I think the competition is what I need to obtain that balance.

5) I have the worst sweet tooth. I have at least one (but truthfully it's more like 10) pieces of candy everyday. You name it I have it at my desk: blow pops, jolly ranchers, chocolate, jawbreakers, lemon heads, etc. I have been trying to cut back on my sugar for years, but never thought I could do it. This just might be the motivation I need to finally kick the habit. I have say that I survived day 1, Candy 0 - Andrea 1. See ya sucker!

6) I wanted to support Rebecca & the rest of my ladies. You are all amazing!

Hi, I'm Louise Smock. I am a 30 year old mom living in NYC with two girls (ages 3 and 6 months). I am really anxious to get off my lazy (physical and spiritual) behind and get into great shape, physically and spiritually. I really want to lose about 12 pounds so hopefully this challenge will get it going. I'm excited about NOT gorging myself before bedtime and forcing myself to go to bed earlier. After this challenge I plan on ditching my old lady clothes and start rocking a new wardrobe.

I'm Ashley Rockwood Melgar. I've lived in NYC off and on for 13 years since my undergrad days at NYU. I'm 31 and mom to two (3 yr old boy and 18 month old girl). My biggest desire in this challenge is to gain consistency in what I'm doing. I find that I'm great in accomplishing my goals for a couple weeks, a couple days, and then go completely off the wagon. With kids has come a lack of stick-with-it-ness, probably from lack of energy or time! This time, I want to actually attain the goals I've had hanging over my head for a long time. Like most everyone else, I'd also like to get my pre-mama body back in business and find a better "me" spiritually.

Hi, I'm AnnMarie Dunn. I recently moved back to NYC in June after finishing a two year stint in grad school. I lived in the city for five years before going back to school. While I was gone I put on a few pounds. I like to blame this on my tendency to snack while I study but it may be that I'm 31 years old and my body might not handle food the same as it did when I was 20. I was surprised how much I missed NYC and I'm glad to call it home again. I just started a job on Monday so it's probably also a good time to readjust my diet, exercise and spiritual habits.

I (Sharon Fitzpatrick), have lived in New York for 39 years and love it. I have worked as a teacher, , a geologist, in the technology department for Moody's Investors Service and as a Program Manager for AmeriCorps. The hardest (and best) work I did was a mother of three and wife to a fabulous fellow. I hope to become healthier and stronger with this challenge.

I'm Olivia. I've long been an advocate for butter and sugar rights, and now I'm looking for a new cause. I have legs like sausages and thighs like hams and, while I'm also a supporter of pork products (shout out to my man, Bacon), I'd like it if my body parts resembled less meaty things. I do strength and aerobic training on a regular basis, so my main focus will be on eating better and getting my spirit in shape.

I'm Renee L. and I've lived in NYC for over a year now with my husband and 22 yr. old son who is attending Hunter College. I have 4 sons, 3 married, and 5 grandchildren. I'm ready for this challenge because I am addicted to sugar and have been over-eating ever since I moved here. I need healthier habits and also would like to loose 5 lbs (to start). 50 really is a magic number. I've always eaten whatever I want, and never gained weight....until the last 2 years. Wow, that was a full confession, it must be time to get serious!!!

My name is Courtney, I'm 25 and living in northern Virginia. I got divorced this summer so my love of baking mixed with a serious comfort-food fest this summer has left me unable to fit into lots of my clothes. I'm excited about this fitness challenge because I want to get into shape and find balance again. I am definitely trying to make changes in my life now that will make me a better, more balanced person as I start this new phase in my life. I want to feel comfortable in my own skin again, prepared to face the singles' wards, and finally establish a good scripture-reading habit.

Other challengers:

Diana Marsden & Shauna Davis

DAY 1 - HOW DID IT GO?

I hope you you've all had great success with DAY 1! I found myself almost taking a bite of Madeline's cookie after school, but alas, I remembered my goal! It's amazing how much we all probably do (that isn't always good) out of habit or without even thinking. I already feel like my awareness, for at least what I ate today, has been heightened a bit. Hopefully, this will only improve. I'd love to know how your day went as well. Please feel free to leave a comment!

A few things:

• Don't forget to weigh yourself today. Determine your "ideal" or desired weight so you know what you're shooting for. Then make sure to weigh yourself every Sunday in order to determine whether or not you earned a point for weight loss or maintenance each week.
• Keeping track of your points: I've decided that I'm going to keep track of your weekly points, not your daily points. That's for you to do. If you've already come up with your own spread sheet to use, great! Melissa Atkin has put together a weekly spreadsheet that I'll send out through the google group, so feel free to use that one. There will be a weekly google doc for you to submit your weekly points to. Your weekly points must be submitted to the document no later than Sunday by 9pm. I'll be sure to remind you all.
• I need your introductions by tonight!!! Most of you have responded, but I'm still waiting to hear back from several of you. I will be posting those up ASAP so if you want to be included, please do this tonight.
• Share your successes. If you're making great progress, please let me and/or the group know about it. We want to hear about how you're doing and what's working and what's still challenging for you. Sharing each other's progress is a great way to motivate and encourage one another!