The Challenge to Become a Phenomenal Woman: Week Seven~ Open Discussion ~

Skinnymocah · 05-15-2005, 08:01 AM

Wanna go from So-so to Sexy? From BLAH to Bombshell?? Phrumpy to PHENOMENAL?

Join our Challenge to ‘Become A Phenomenal Woman’!

Join us in a new 9 week challenge designed to dust off the winter grays and propel us into Sexy Spring! Do you fall into the the ‘cute’, ‘pretty’, ‘attractive’ or even ‘beautiful’ categories but haven’t quite got the ‘sexy’ thing down yet? Maybe you just can’t find the time to devote to a personal beauty and style regimen. Maybe you just need a little help from friends who can offer some good recommendations. Maybe your self esteem needs a collagen injection. Well, place yourself at spot #1 on your ‘To Do’ list… spend the next nine weeks with us as we explore personal inner beauty !

Note: **This is NOT a WOE/Exercise challenge. If you want to use diet and exercise as a part of your transformation goals, you are welcome to track those goals as part of your program but we will not be focusing on those aspects solely in this challenge.**

From April to June, we will be focusing on topics of personal growth and life changing self revelation. We will be developing our own personal regimen and putting it to work! As you work your body with diet and exercise, work your mind and self esteem as well, and as you grow and propel yourself forward, you assist those around you in self growth!

The point of this challenge is to realize that we can be (and are) sexy at ANY size, from 2-32! If you need accountability, camaraderie, friendship, an ear to listen, or just a group of friends to take this journey with you, I hope you’ll join us here for the next 9 weeks.

Here are some topics I thought would be important to cover and focus on weekly:

Week 1: April 3-9: Step One in Confidence Building--- Pamper Yourself!
An ‘It Works!’ Session where we share tips and tricks in beauty and style and implement them into a personal regimen.

Week 2: April 10-16: Attitude- the corner stone of self confidence
Sexyness is 99% attitude—how do you gather the self confidence to let your sexy self shine through?

Week 3: April 17-23: Shyness and Social Phobia
Release Yourself From the Prison of ‘What Others Think’

Week 4: April 24-30: Developing Positive Personal Relationships
Eliminating negative and toxic connections, rebuilding and cherishing relationships that empower you!

Week 5: May 1-7: Body Image, Body Acceptance
Excerpts taken from AboutFace.com, a website dedicated to making changes in how women are portrayed in media and tips on fighting back.

Week 6: May 8-14: Assertive vs. B*tchy; Accommodating vs. Doormat:
Being your Confident Best in a man’s world

Week 7: May 15-21:Open Floor- What’s on your mind?
Loose discussions, reflection, bring up your own topics!

Week 8: May 22-28: Personal Action Plan— Where will you go from here?
How will your personal regimen/affirmations change after this challenge is complete? What goals have your set for yourself for your next personal challenge?

Week 9: May 29-June 3: Realization of your Goals and Unveiling
We will welcome transformation photos and testimonials of your 9 week journey. Use your confidence and what you’ve learned to inspire others!

There are 9 weeks to June, make them count… be You, only BETTER!

PHENOMENAL WOMAN
by Maya Angelou

Pretty women wonder where my secret lies
I'm not cute or built to suit a model's fashion size
But when I start to tell them
They think I'm telling lies.

I say
It's in the reach of my arms
The span of my hips
The stride of my steps
The curl of my lips.
I'm a woman
Phenomenally
Phenomenal woman
That's me.

I walk into a room
Just as cool as you please
And to a man
The fellows stand or
Fall down on their knees
Then they swarm around me
A hive of honey bees.
I say
It's the fire in my eyes
And the flash of my teeth
The swing of my waist
And the joy in my feet.
I'm a woman
Phenomenally
Phenomenal woman
That's me.

Men themselves have wondered
What they see in me
They try so much
But they can't touch
My inner mystery.
When I try to show them
They say they still can't see.
I say
It's in the arch of my back
The sun of my smile
The ride of my breasts
The grace of my style.
I'm a woman
Phenomenally
Phenomenal woman
That's me.

Now you understand
Just why my head's not bowed
I don't shout or jump about
Or have to talk real loud
When you see me passing
It ought to make you proud.
I say
It's in the click of my heels
The bend of my hair
The palm of my hand
The need for my care.
'Cause I'm a woman
Phenomenally
Phenomenal woman
That's me.

Skinnymocah · 05-15-2005, 08:08 AM

Greetings and Salutations, Phenoms!

This is our open week, let's chat about anything that's on your mind?

How are our beauty regimens going? Still looking FABULOUSLY PHENOMENAL when we step out, or have we reverted back to FRUMPY?

Check your attitude-- how's your confidence?

Got any special self improvement projects you're working on? Any personal issues you're struggling with that need that special ear to listen? Lay it on us!

This week I am trying to get back into my regimen, setting clothes out at night and taking care of my skin, wearing makeup daily and looking my best. I would say out of the last 8 weeks, I probably had at least one frumpy workday a week, due to lazyness, getting up late, not planning, etc.

I am on week 3 of lean for life and it's WONDERFUL, but I am failing to plan, and planning to fail. Everyday I have to cart two protein snacks, and then a serving of each of protein, vegetable, fruit, and then salad and dressing. It's a lot to prepare and a lot to drag around with me. But I am down almost 10 lbs and my 20's are ridiculously loose and my 18's don't make me look like a hippo. 16 here I come!

I am planning a vacation later this year, so trying to get and keep my finances in order. It seems, however that I cannot stop spending money! I seem to keep finding ways to justify a frivolous expense! ARGH! (at myself!)

So what is on tap for everyone else this week?

Nancy Pancy · 05-15-2005, 08:36 AM

Will be getting in the car, leaving PA in about an hour, will check in from Ontarioariario.

Skinnymocah · 05-15-2005, 12:58 PM

Drive safely Nancy!

LibraEssence · 05-15-2005, 02:04 PM

Hello Ladies!!!

things are going well for me this weekend. I did practically nothing I planned to do this weekend ......... it felt great!! watched movies with my kids and had a romantic evening with my BF. He even said "we definitely have to do this more often".

this morning I did some gardening...and made omelets and breakfast burritos for everyone. Tonight I am grilling chicken, steak kabobs and salmon with garlic butter and onions...that should hold us til wednesday or thursday on leftovers.....Everything taste better the next day to me..LOL

Moke...where are you planning to go on your vacation??? I know Nancy is going to New York...and i'm going to San Francisco next month. I'm so excited. It's only going to be a 3 day weekend but we are going to make the most of it. I have been planning a little itenerary for the trip already. Next weekend I'm going to chaperone my daughters trip to Magic Mountain on saturday....I'm more excited than she is!!! I love rollercoasters

Well, I'm getting ready to head to sam"s club and get some supplies and then to lowe's to hopefully find 2 rose bushes...I hope everyone is having a wonderful day...apppreciate it, and never take it or the people around you for granted!!!

Skinnymocah · 05-15-2005, 02:16 PM

Stephanie, sounds like a perfect day!

I am vacationing in October. Part of it I will be going to San Antonio/Houston. My DB/SIL/Nephew just moved to San Antonio, to the air Force Base as my SIL just got stationed there. She is a nurse. I haven't seen my munchkin in over a year and he's talking and growing into such a handsome little boy. I can't wait to see him and take him to get some french fries!

Barbcat01 · 05-15-2005, 02:50 PM

All things considered, I am having a fantabulous weekend! I didn't do a lick of housework except for some laundry, I barely bought any groceries, and I have taken "couch potato" to a whole new level! That'll teach me to go to the library.

I will break in the new Grillinator tonight with some marinated steaks, and I'll have a side of salad with cukes and tomatoes, and maybe some green beans.

This next week may be a challenge as I don't know how well I'll be able to avoid some bad peoples, so there may be times that all I can do is breathe in and breathe out. Too bad that it's probably illegal to poke others in the eye with a sharp stick.

If things get too tough, I'll wander over here for soothing and petting.

Skinnymocah · 05-15-2005, 04:14 PM

Barbcat, we'd be happy to soothe!

Snapdragon · 05-15-2005, 11:25 PM

Hi ladies!

Well, I've conquered finals week! I managed to make the Dean's list, which makes me happy. I've got a week of vacation before I have to go back to school for summer session.

There's not much I can do about my clothes not fitting, as the triplets kind of dictate what I can where at any given time, but I'm making an effort toward good skin. It must be the hormones or something, because I'm having serious face issues. *Grrrrr* I'm also trying to be very good about what I eat. I'm going to try and stay sugar and bread (and pasta) free for the duration.

The biggest thing that I want to do this week is make sure that all the people in my life who are important to me know it. I am one of those people who has problems expressing my feelings.... I'm going to try and get past that. I know I feel better about myself when I do.

Barbcat- I help soothe if I can. I can sing! Requests?

Stephanie- Ooh.... I'm jealous! You're one of those people who can grow things! Can you come over and help me save a plant from an untimely demise? *sniffle* Poor thing, its not the plant's fault that I have a black thumb..... Good luck at Sam's Club!

Nancy - hope you had a safe trip.... looking forward to updates!

Moke- Congrats on the weight loss! You're doing a terrific job! GO YOU!!!!! San Antonio sounds fun.

LibraEssence · 05-15-2005, 11:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by StarFire

Stephanie- Ooh.... I'm jealous! You're one of those people who can grow things! Can you come over and help me save a plant from an untimely demise? *sniffle* Poor thing, its not the plant's fault that I have a black thumb..... Good luck at Sam's Club!

Your envious of me

...Your going to school and still growing 3 lil ones too

and raising a 2 year old Girl, if all you need is for me to grow a few plants for you...I'm there

Barbcat01..have No Fear!!! The Phenoms are here

Moke, what fun you're going to have

...how old is your nephew???

Fine Mind · 05-16-2005, 03:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by StarFire

Hi ladies!

Well, I've conquered finals week! I managed to make the Dean's list, which makes me happy. I've got a week of vacation before I have to go back to school for summer session.

Let's hear it for the girl!

Way to go!!!! Lin

Fine Mind · 05-16-2005, 03:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Skinnymocah

I am vacationing in October. Part of it I will be going to San Antonio/Houston. My DB/SIL/Nephew just moved to San Antonio, to the air Force Base as my SIL just got stationed there. She is a nurse. I haven't seen my munchkin in over a year and he's talking and growing into such a handsome little boy. I can't wait to see him and take him to get some french fries!

My sister and her family lived in San Antonio for several years and LOVED it!. You should have a great time and it's always good to have something to look forward to! I am proud of you for dropping a whole dress size. I think this challenge has helped toward fixing some of the inside things that show up on the outside. Keep up the good work!

Fine Mind · 05-16-2005, 04:03 AM

Good Morning all you PHENOMS!!!

Most of my week's efforts will be geared toward Friday when I hold a little Renaissance Faire for my ninth grade students. We do a reading challenge in March and this event is my reward to them. It begins with awards for the top 20 readers and beautiful certificates for everyone. The top readers all get Border's gift cards. The superintendent and the principal both stop by and my friend will read "Oh, the Places You Will Go!"
After the talky part is over, those who are in costume will present a fashion review and the kids will vote on their favorite. I will be in costume as Maid* (snort!) Marian (* a maid is a sweet young virgin

)
Then the games begin. The class has been divided into ten teams and will compete as teams in "dressing M' Lord and M'Lady". Using only newspapers and masking tape they must dress a guy as a knight and a girl as a lady. It is such awesome fun. They have half an hour to do this and then we parade the results for the grand prize. There will also be a miniature castle-building contest using toothpicks and marshmallows and a banner- making competition. The awards are Twizzlers, Nerd ropes, and Laffy Taffy.
Anyway it is all great fun and I am looking forward to it even though it makes me a bit nervous.

I plan to do Curves every day, paint the woodwork in my dining room, manage my eating and not lose my temper at work.

I also get my roots done and my eyes examined-- oh, and pay my bills!

My goal for the week is to keep everything on an even keel!
I hope everyone has the greatest week!

Lin

Redboned · 05-16-2005, 04:49 AM

Hello Everyone! I actually spent most of the day yesterday trying to get this #&$^@(#@^Q# wireless router set up. Freakin technical support was no help! Very frustrating when you have to jump thru hoops to get to a live customer service agent then when you finally get one, you can barely understand because of the heavy accent. (SIGH)
Anyway, its finally working (for the moment) and I am moving about the house with my happy little laptop.

This week is looking pretty lowkey at work, so, I ought to have plenty of time to surf online!

Skinnymocah · 05-16-2005, 05:22 AM

Good morning all! Just checking in for today.

I do NOT feel good at ALL. I am up this morning so I am most certainly retaining something. I am considering a very light day today and just trying to flush with some water. My stomach hurt last night like I ate an entire chicken or something! I went to lay down and it took over an hour before I started to feel better. I'm marginal today and I wish I could stay home but I have two meetings so I'm going to have to push through. Maybe if I do my reports my boss will let me sneak out. I doubt I will even ask... but I will most certainly be in bed as soon as I get back home.

Nancy Pancy · 05-16-2005, 07:55 AM

Moke, sorry you are not feeling up to par.

I guess what is on my calendar for this week is to let people know how important they are to me.

Dedivah · 05-16-2005, 02:44 PM

Hi All!

I know it's been a while for me. Work has got me a bit

.

My weekend was okay. I took DD to a children's party on Saturday and we had a nice time. I am also in the middle of planning her 1st birthday party and it was good to see what others did so that I can know what to do and not to do.

Sunday, I pretty much did nothing other than watch TV and nap. Dh went out with my nephews. I figured he needed some time out so he took them to the new Jet Li, Morgan Freeman movie UNLEASHED. I wasn't too thrilled to see it so I was glad to get out of it.

My dd is walking. I'm so very proud of her she's 10 months old and she doing really well on her feet. She still falls down but she gets right back up and starts walking again.

Dh and I are also planning a small get away for our 1st anniversayr in August. We are going to spend the weekend in Puerto Rico. Do some shopping and sample the rich spanish food. Dh wants to take Dd with us but who takes theie kids on a Anniversary trip???

Moke ~ So sorry you are not feeling well.

I hope you feel better soon.

StarFire ~ Congrats on making the Deans List!

And on the triplets!!! WOW!!!

Nancy Pancy · 05-16-2005, 02:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by StarFire

Hi ladies!

Well, I've conquered finals week! I managed to make the Dean's list, which makes me happy. I've got a week of vacation before I have to go back to school for summer session.

Wow, congrats StarFire! That is awesome news!

LibraEssence · 05-16-2005, 04:53 PM

Today was a busy and wonderful day for me....I had a very freeing conversation with my BF...and it just gave me a warm and fuzzy feeling afterwards. Don't you just love those moments

Moke...I hope your feeling better....

Fine....how fun your Renaissance Faire is...you know you're definitely one of the teachers that kids becoming adults will always remember. For example...I remember my Kindergarten/1st grade teacher Ms. White (I thought it was so funny because she was black

) And my english teacher in 9th and 10th grade...Mrs French..(she taught english..and her name was french..lol

) She encouraged me so much with her positivity to break out of my shyness shell...I will always be grateful to her.

I just wanted to let all the beautiful women on this challenge know that each and everyone of you has made an impact on me in your own special way. I relish the thought of knowing a part of each and everyone of you and you knowing those intimate moments about me. We are all truly blessed to learn from each other in this forum.

Nancy Pancy · 05-16-2005, 05:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LibraEssence

I just wanted to let all the beautiful women on this challenge know that each and everyone of you has made an impact on me in your own special way. I relish the thought of knowing a part of each and everyone of you and you knowing those intimate moments about me. We are all truly blessed to learn from each other in this forum.

I feel the same way. The whole internet thing is a wild and weird thing. It's made our world seem like a very small place.

I love those kinds of conversations that you had with DBF. Things have progressed alot in the last month between Paul and I. I am so loving it.

Barbcat01 · 05-16-2005, 06:45 PM

Hello, Lovely People!

Mocah, I hope your tummy troubles are over quickly! I can take just about everything else, but please leave my stomach out of it!

I ended up having a pretty good day. I did not have to put up with the rotten people who are reckless with the feelings of others, so YAY!

Even better, one of the guys on the rotten periphery came online and we ended up having a good conversation. I think I will keep him in the fold.

And, anytime any of you feel like singing a song to me, sing it right out loud! I will even dance, as long as it's not the Macarena.

Nancy Pancy · 05-17-2005, 06:31 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Barbcat01

And, anytime any of you feel like singing a song to me, sing it right out loud! I will even dance, as long as it's not the Macarena.

Oh well, I learned the Macarena on vacation in Mexico and have fond memories.....How about a little Gloria Gainer, instead?

Moke, hope your belly is better today.

I am feeling good and loving life today, hope everyone else is too!

Skinnymocah · 05-17-2005, 07:00 AM

Morning, Glories!

I am feeling SO much better today, and I hit the 10 # mark today too! YAHOOOO!! I also tried on these CUTE Carpenter jeans that I have and love to wear and have been so tight I can't breathe! I can get them on, and they are not as tight as they were when I wore them a few weeks ago, esp in the thighs! (The hips and rear shelf need some work, tho

) I will try them in another 10 lbs and hopefully they will be wearable outside of the house!

One of these days I am planning to get back to the gym. I am either going to do BFL or Oprah's Boot Camp. I haven't seen my brother in years and I don't want to be fat when I go on vacation!

Yesterday, I had an opportunity to share a story that I dont think I've shared in the five years I've been a member, and that is my story of depression, suicide and recovery. Thinking about it yesterday, and in the aftermath of Mr. Dizzy's death, brought back a lot of memories. Not painful memories, but I do remember the pain. It also made me SO SO SO grateful, thankful, and ever so blessed to have people in my life who stepped in when I needed it most. I am happy and healthy and alive and I wouldn't have it any other way!

What's everyone else up to this day?

Barbcat01 · 05-17-2005, 05:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nancy Pancy

Oh well, I learned the Macarena on vacation in Mexico and have fond memories.....How about a little Gloria Gainer, instead?

Moke, hope your belly is better today.

I am feeling good and loving life today, hope everyone else is too!

Oh, yes! I will never admit it outside of this thread, but I LOVED disco music! So shoot me.

Glad you're having a good day!

05-15-2005, 02:04 PM	#5
LibraEssence MAJOR LCF POSTER! Join Date: May 2004 Location: Moreno Valley, CA Posts: 2,349 Gallery: LibraEssence Stats: 5'10"- 206 as of Oct 2007 WOE: ...Induction Start Date: back at again Since August 2007	Hello Ladies!!! things are going well for me this weekend. I did practically nothing I planned to do this weekend ......... it felt great!! watched movies with my kids and had a romantic evening with my BF. He even said "we definitely have to do this more often". this morning I did some gardening...and made omelets and breakfast burritos for everyone. Tonight I am grilling chicken, steak kabobs and salmon with garlic butter and onions...that should hold us til wednesday or thursday on leftovers.....Everything taste better the next day to me..LOL Moke...where are you planning to go on your vacation??? I know Nancy is going to New York...and i'm going to San Francisco next month. I'm so excited. It's only going to be a 3 day weekend but we are going to make the most of it. I have been planning a little itenerary for the trip already. Next weekend I'm going to chaperone my daughters trip to Magic Mountain on saturday....I'm more excited than she is!!! I love rollercoasters Well, I'm getting ready to head to sam"s club and get some supplies and then to lowe's to hopefully find 2 rose bushes...I hope everyone is having a wonderful day...apppreciate it, and never take it or the people around you for granted!!! __________________ ~Stephanie~ Most folks are about as happy as they make their minds up to be..." -Abraham Lincoln Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle. -Philo To dream of the person you would like to be is to waste the person you are. - Anonymous

05-16-2005, 04:03 AM	#13
Fine Mind Blabbermouth!!! Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Pennsylvania Posts: 5,661 Gallery: Fine Mind WOE: Atkins '72 Start Date: 08/25/07	Plans for this week Good Morning all you PHENOMS!!! Most of my week's efforts will be geared toward Friday when I hold a little Renaissance Faire for my ninth grade students. We do a reading challenge in March and this event is my reward to them. It begins with awards for the top 20 readers and beautiful certificates for everyone. The top readers all get Border's gift cards. The superintendent and the principal both stop by and my friend will read "Oh, the Places You Will Go!" After the talky part is over, those who are in costume will present a fashion review and the kids will vote on their favorite. I will be in costume as Maid* (snort!) Marian (* a maid is a sweet young virgin ) Then the games begin. The class has been divided into ten teams and will compete as teams in "dressing M' Lord and M'Lady". Using only newspapers and masking tape they must dress a guy as a knight and a girl as a lady. It is such awesome fun. They have half an hour to do this and then we parade the results for the grand prize. There will also be a miniature castle-building contest using toothpicks and marshmallows and a banner- making competition. The awards are Twizzlers, Nerd ropes, and Laffy Taffy. Anyway it is all great fun and I am looking forward to it even though it makes me a bit nervous. I plan to do Curves every day, paint the woodwork in my dining room, manage my eating and not lose my temper at work. I also get my roots done and my eyes examined-- oh, and pay my bills! My goal for the week is to keep everything on an even keel! I hope everyone has the greatest week! Lin __________________ Don't count them. LIVE them!

05-16-2005, 02:44 PM	#17
Dedivah MAJOR LCF POSTER! Join Date: Mar 2005 Location: St. Thomas, Virgin Islands Posts: 1,823 Gallery: Dedivah Stats: 255/242.5/140 ~ 5`1 WOE: Whatever Works Start Date: Restart - 8/11/07	Hi All! I know it's been a while for me. Work has got me a bit . My weekend was okay. I took DD to a children's party on Saturday and we had a nice time. I am also in the middle of planning her 1st birthday party and it was good to see what others did so that I can know what to do and not to do. Sunday, I pretty much did nothing other than watch TV and nap. Dh went out with my nephews. I figured he needed some time out so he took them to the new Jet Li, Morgan Freeman movie UNLEASHED. I wasn't too thrilled to see it so I was glad to get out of it. My dd is walking. I'm so very proud of her she's 10 months old and she doing really well on her feet. She still falls down but she gets right back up and starts walking again. Dh and I are also planning a small get away for our 1st anniversayr in August. We are going to spend the weekend in Puerto Rico. Do some shopping and sample the rich spanish food. Dh wants to take Dd with us but who takes theie kids on a Anniversary trip??? Moke ~ So sorry you are not feeling well. I hope you feel better soon. StarFire ~ Congrats on making the Deans List! And on the triplets!!! WOW!!! __________________ ºOº Coleen October: Weight Loss 3rd - 241.5 \ 10th - *CRUISING* \17th -244.5 \ 24th - 243.5 \ 31st - "I will not allow today's success to lull me into tomorrow's complacency, for this is the great foundation of failure. I will forget the happenings of the day that is gone, whether they were good or bad, and greet the new sun with confidence that this will be the best day of my life."

05-16-2005, 04:53 PM	#19
LibraEssence MAJOR LCF POSTER! Join Date: May 2004 Location: Moreno Valley, CA Posts: 2,349 Gallery: LibraEssence Stats: 5'10"- 206 as of Oct 2007 WOE: ...Induction Start Date: back at again Since August 2007	Hello Phenoms!!! Today was a busy and wonderful day for me....I had a very freeing conversation with my BF...and it just gave me a warm and fuzzy feeling afterwards. Don't you just love those moments Moke...I hope your feeling better.... Fine....how fun your Renaissance Faire is...you know you're definitely one of the teachers that kids becoming adults will always remember. For example...I remember my Kindergarten/1st grade teacher Ms. White (I thought it was so funny because she was black ) And my english teacher in 9th and 10th grade...Mrs French..(she taught english..and her name was french..lol ) She encouraged me so much with her positivity to break out of my shyness shell...I will always be grateful to her. I just wanted to let all the beautiful women on this challenge know that each and everyone of you has made an impact on me in your own special way. I relish the thought of knowing a part of each and everyone of you and you knowing those intimate moments about me. We are all truly blessed to learn from each other in this forum.

05-15-2005, 08:01 AM	#1
Skinnymocah aka Miss Latte Join Date: Aug 2002 Location: Gone. Posts: 41,456 Gallery: Skinnymocah Stats: WOE: Start Date:	The Challenge to Become a Phenomenal Woman: Week Seven~ Open Discussion ~ Wanna go from So-so to Sexy? From BLAH to Bombshell?? Phrumpy to PHENOMENAL? Join our Challenge to *‘Become A Phenomenal Woman’!* Join us in a new 9 week challenge designed to dust off the winter grays and propel us into Sexy Spring! Do you fall into the the ‘cute’, ‘pretty’, ‘attractive’ or even ‘beautiful’ categories but haven’t quite got the ‘sexy’ thing down yet? Maybe you just can’t find the time to devote to a personal beauty and style regimen. Maybe you just need a little help from friends who can offer some good recommendations. Maybe your self esteem needs a collagen injection. Well, place yourself at spot #1 on your ‘To Do’ list… spend the next nine weeks with us as we explore personal inner beauty ! Note: This is NOT a WOE/Exercise challenge. If you want to use diet and exercise as a part of your transformation goals, you are welcome to track those goals as part of your program but we will not be focusing on those aspects solely in this challenge. From April to June, we will be focusing on topics of personal growth and life changing self revelation. We will be developing our own personal regimen and putting it to work! As you work your body with diet and exercise, work your mind and self esteem as well, and as you grow and propel yourself forward, you assist those around you in self growth! The point of this challenge is to realize that we can be (and are) sexy at ANY size, from 2-32! If you need accountability, camaraderie, friendship, an ear to listen, or just a group of friends to take this journey with you, I hope you’ll join us here for the next 9 weeks. Here are some topics I thought would be important to cover and focus on weekly: Week 1: April 3-9: Step One in Confidence Building--- Pamper Yourself! An ‘It Works!’ Session where we share tips and tricks in beauty and style and implement them into a personal regimen. Week 2: April 10-16: Attitude- the corner stone of self confidence Sexyness is 99% attitude—how do you gather the self confidence to let your sexy self shine through? Week 3: April 17-23: Shyness and Social Phobia Release Yourself From the Prison of ‘What Others Think’ Week 4: April 24-30: Developing Positive Personal Relationships Eliminating negative and toxic connections, rebuilding and cherishing relationships that empower you! Week 5: May 1-7: Body Image, Body Acceptance Excerpts taken from AboutFace.com, a website dedicated to making changes in how women are portrayed in media and tips on fighting back. Week 6: May 8-14: Assertive vs. Btchy; Accommodating vs. Doormat: Being your Confident Best in a man’s world Week 7: May 15-21:Open Floor- What’s on your mind? Loose discussions, reflection, bring up your own topics! Week 8: May 22-28:* Personal Action Plan— Where will you go from here? How will your personal regimen/affirmations change after this challenge is complete? What goals have your set for yourself for your next personal challenge? Week 9: May 29-June 3: Realization of your Goals and Unveiling We will welcome transformation photos and testimonials of your 9 week journey. Use your confidence and what you’ve learned to inspire others! There are 9 weeks to June, make them count… be You, only BETTER! PHENOMENAL WOMAN by Maya Angelou Pretty women wonder where my secret lies I'm not cute or built to suit a model's fashion size But when I start to tell them They think I'm telling lies. I say It's in the reach of my arms The span of my hips The stride of my steps The curl of my lips. I'm a woman Phenomenally Phenomenal woman That's me. I walk into a room Just as cool as you please And to a man The fellows stand or Fall down on their knees Then they swarm around me A hive of honey bees. I say It's the fire in my eyes And the flash of my teeth The swing of my waist And the joy in my feet. I'm a woman Phenomenally Phenomenal woman That's me. Men themselves have wondered What they see in me They try so much But they can't touch My inner mystery. When I try to show them They say they still can't see. I say It's in the arch of my back The sun of my smile The ride of my breasts The grace of my style. I'm a woman Phenomenally Phenomenal woman That's me. Now you understand Just why my head's not bowed I don't shout or jump about Or have to talk real loud When you see me passing It ought to make you proud. I say It's in the click of my heels The bend of my hair The palm of my hand The need for my care. 'Cause I'm a woman Phenomenally Phenomenal woman That's me.

05-15-2005, 08:08 AM	#2
Skinnymocah aka Miss Latte Join Date: Aug 2002 Location: Gone. Posts: 41,456 Gallery: Skinnymocah Stats: WOE: Start Date:	Greetings and Salutations, Phenoms! This is our open week, let's chat about anything that's on your mind? How are our beauty regimens going? Still looking FABULOUSLY PHENOMENAL when we step out, or have we reverted back to FRUMPY? Check your attitude-- how's your confidence? Got any special self improvement projects you're working on? Any personal issues you're struggling with that need that special ear to listen? Lay it on us! This week I am trying to get back into my regimen, setting clothes out at night and taking care of my skin, wearing makeup daily and looking my best. I would say out of the last 8 weeks, I probably had at least one frumpy workday a week, due to lazyness, getting up late, not planning, etc. I am on week 3 of lean for life and it's WONDERFUL, but I am failing to plan, and planning to fail. Everyday I have to cart two protein snacks, and then a serving of each of protein, vegetable, fruit, and then salad and dressing. It's a lot to prepare and a lot to drag around with me. But I am down almost 10 lbs and my 20's are ridiculously loose and my 18's don't make me look like a hippo. 16 here I come! I am planning a vacation later this year, so trying to get and keep my finances in order. It seems, however that I cannot stop spending money! I seem to keep finding ways to justify a frivolous expense! ARGH! (at myself!) So what is on tap for everyone else this week?

05-15-2005, 08:36 AM	#3
Nancy Pancy Playground Sweetheart Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Ontario, Canada Posts: 66,191 Gallery: Nancy Pancy Stats: 160/146.4/WTHk WOE: LowerCarbs/Plenty of Walking Start Date: 03/03/03	Will be getting in the car, leaving PA in about an hour, will check in from Ontarioariario.

05-15-2005, 12:58 PM	#4
Skinnymocah aka Miss Latte Join Date: Aug 2002 Location: Gone. Posts: 41,456 Gallery: Skinnymocah Stats: WOE: Start Date:	Drive safely Nancy!

05-15-2005, 02:16 PM	#6
Skinnymocah aka Miss Latte Join Date: Aug 2002 Location: Gone. Posts: 41,456 Gallery: Skinnymocah Stats: WOE: Start Date:	Stephanie, sounds like a perfect day! I am vacationing in October. Part of it I will be going to San Antonio/Houston. My DB/SIL/Nephew just moved to San Antonio, to the air Force Base as my SIL just got stationed there. She is a nurse. I haven't seen my munchkin in over a year and he's talking and growing into such a handsome little boy. I can't wait to see him and take him to get some french fries!

05-15-2005, 02:50 PM	#7
Barbcat01 Junior LCF Member Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: Central Texas Posts: 25 Gallery: Barbcat01 Stats: 190/170/149 5'9" WOE: Atkins/South Beach Start Date: November 2005	All things considered, I am having a fantabulous weekend! I didn't do a lick of housework except for some laundry, I barely bought any groceries, and I have taken "couch potato" to a whole new level! That'll teach me to go to the library. I will break in the new Grillinator tonight with some marinated steaks, and I'll have a side of salad with cukes and tomatoes, and maybe some green beans. This next week may be a challenge as I don't know how well I'll be able to avoid some bad peoples, so there may be times that all I can do is breathe in and breathe out. Too bad that it's probably illegal to poke others in the eye with a sharp stick. If things get too tough, I'll wander over here for soothing and petting.

05-15-2005, 04:14 PM	#8
Skinnymocah aka Miss Latte Join Date: Aug 2002 Location: Gone. Posts: 41,456 Gallery: Skinnymocah Stats: WOE: Start Date:	Barbcat, we'd be happy to soothe!

05-15-2005, 11:25 PM	#9
Snapdragon Senior LCF Member Join Date: Oct 2003 Location: OVER THE RAINBOW Posts: 799 Gallery: Snapdragon Stats: 225/180/140 WOE: ATKINS '72 - Couch to 5k	Hi ladies! Well, I've conquered finals week! I managed to make the Dean's list, which makes me happy. I've got a week of vacation before I have to go back to school for summer session. There's not much I can do about my clothes not fitting, as the triplets kind of dictate what I can where at any given time, but I'm making an effort toward good skin. It must be the hormones or something, because I'm having serious face issues. Grrrrr I'm also trying to be very good about what I eat. I'm going to try and stay sugar and bread (and pasta) free for the duration. The biggest thing that I want to do this week is make sure that all the people in my life who are important to me know it. I am one of those people who has problems expressing my feelings.... I'm going to try and get past that. I know I feel better about myself when I do. Barbcat- I help soothe if I can. I can sing! Requests? Stephanie- Ooh.... I'm jealous! You're one of those people who can grow things! Can you come over and help me save a plant from an untimely demise? sniffle Poor thing, its not the plant's fault that I have a black thumb..... Good luck at Sam's Club! Nancy - hope you had a safe trip.... looking forward to updates! Moke- Congrats on the weight loss! You're doing a terrific job! GO YOU!!!!! San Antonio sounds fun.

05-16-2005, 04:49 AM	#14
Redboned Senior LCF Member Join Date: May 2003 Location: Texas Gulf Coast Posts: 286 Gallery: Redboned	Hello Everyone! I actually spent most of the day yesterday trying to get this #&$^@(#@^Q# wireless router set up. Freakin technical support was no help! Very frustrating when you have to jump thru hoops to get to a live customer service agent then when you finally get one, you can barely understand because of the heavy accent. (SIGH) Anyway, its finally working (for the moment) and I am moving about the house with my happy little laptop. This week is looking pretty lowkey at work, so, I ought to have plenty of time to surf online!

05-16-2005, 05:22 AM	#15
Skinnymocah aka Miss Latte Join Date: Aug 2002 Location: Gone. Posts: 41,456 Gallery: Skinnymocah Stats: WOE: Start Date:	Good morning all! Just checking in for today. I do NOT feel good at ALL. I am up this morning so I am most certainly retaining something. I am considering a very light day today and just trying to flush with some water. My stomach hurt last night like I ate an entire chicken or something! I went to lay down and it took over an hour before I started to feel better. I'm marginal today and I wish I could stay home but I have two meetings so I'm going to have to push through. Maybe if I do my reports my boss will let me sneak out. I doubt I will even ask... but I will most certainly be in bed as soon as I get back home.

05-16-2005, 07:55 AM	#16
Nancy Pancy Playground Sweetheart Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Ontario, Canada Posts: 66,191 Gallery: Nancy Pancy Stats: 160/146.4/WTHk WOE: LowerCarbs/Plenty of Walking Start Date: 03/03/03	Moke, sorry you are not feeling up to par. I guess what is on my calendar for this week is to let people know how important they are to me.

05-16-2005, 06:45 PM	#21
Barbcat01 Junior LCF Member Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: Central Texas Posts: 25 Gallery: Barbcat01 Stats: 190/170/149 5'9" WOE: Atkins/South Beach Start Date: November 2005	Hello, Lovely People! Mocah, I hope your tummy troubles are over quickly! I can take just about everything else, but please leave my stomach out of it! I ended up having a pretty good day. I did not have to put up with the rotten people who are reckless with the feelings of others, so YAY! Even better, one of the guys on the rotten periphery came online and we ended up having a good conversation. I think I will keep him in the fold. And, anytime any of you feel like singing a song to me, sing it right out loud! I will even dance, as long as it's not the Macarena.

05-17-2005, 07:00 AM	#23
Skinnymocah aka Miss Latte Join Date: Aug 2002 Location: Gone. Posts: 41,456 Gallery: Skinnymocah Stats: WOE: Start Date:	Morning, Glories! I am feeling SO much better today, and I hit the 10 # mark today too! YAHOOOO!! I also tried on these CUTE Carpenter jeans that I have and love to wear and have been so tight I can't breathe! I can get them on, and they are not as tight as they were when I wore them a few weeks ago, esp in the thighs! (The hips and rear shelf need some work, tho ) I will try them in another 10 lbs and hopefully they will be wearable outside of the house! One of these days I am planning to get back to the gym. I am either going to do BFL or Oprah's Boot Camp. I haven't seen my brother in years and I don't want to be fat when I go on vacation! Yesterday, I had an opportunity to share a story that I dont think I've shared in the five years I've been a member, and that is my story of depression, suicide and recovery. Thinking about it yesterday, and in the aftermath of Mr. Dizzy's death, brought back a lot of memories. Not painful memories, but I do remember the pain. It also made me SO SO SO grateful, thankful, and ever so blessed to have people in my life who stepped in when I needed it most. I am happy and healthy and alive and I wouldn't have it any other way! What's everyone else up to this day?