Allies Exercising Across America & Navigating the Holidays/December

[JillianDC]

Hello Allies who've stuck with us and anyone who wants to join us. to our December challenge!

This is the last month of the year and many of us have been working hard all year to improve ourselves, so let's keep up the good work!!! We are committed to eating right, exercising, drinking our water, and working on our body image. We're logging our exercise miles and working our way across America... and we welcome new members to help us get to L.A. or just to cheer us on. So come on in anytime.

This month is also about navigating our way through the holidays -- enjoying ourselves, but keeping on track and not suffering setbacks that are all-too-common this time of year.

We typically weigh in once a week and post our exercise daily, but do what you can. Here's how we log our miles: whether you go to the gym, take exercise classes, work out at home, walk vigorously or bike ride outside, or do whatever gets you moving -- 10 minutes = 1 mile. Or you can post your actual mileage per the treadmill, bike, elliptical, etc. For example, if I do floor work and hand weights for 30 minutes, that's 3 miles. If I also do the elliptical and the control panel shows 2 miles, I've done a total workout of 5 miles. We just add our miles to the last person's. It's easy to get the hang of it. You'll see with our subsequent posts.

Please add this to your signature to show your commitment:
[COLOR="Green"][COLOR="DarkGreen"]Proud member of "Allies Exercising Across America & Navigating the Holidays/December" Challenge [/COLOR][/COLOR]

Let's cruise through December in the best shape possible and close out the year in style! Here's to a great month ahead!!!

Jillian

[JillianDC]

And here's where we stand with the exercise:

Allies Exercising From New York to LA
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Ninth Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Tenth Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles (we made it 11/18/07!)
Next stop: Denver, Colorado - 242 miles

120 + 4 for me today = 124 miles (118 to go!)

[speedymagee]

Thanks Jillian for getting us going for December!

I have a question for you girls. I'm also going to post it in the ML.

I think I had a reaction from this snack food I ate yesterday. I was at DH's aunt/uncle's house visiting and they put a bowl of ?? on the table. It's sort of like Nuts'n Bolts, but was orange.

I ate some, not a lot. But this morning when I woke up my lips and forehead were 'swollen', it's the only way I can describe it. I've been sneezing up a storm and blowing my nose, like I have a cold, but I don't.

I'm thinking it was the MSG??? My question is this.
Have you ever had an allergic reaction to MSG?

[JillianDC]

Hi Sandy: That sounds awful! I don't know what it could be since I haven't had that kind of reaction to MSG before -- just a mild headache. Let me know what you find out and feel better!!!!

[DrunkenSailor]

Hi Allies!

Sandy, I haven't had any allergic reactions that I've noticed. But I wonder if maybe you are noticing the effect more dramatically because you've been eating clean for quite awhile. I hate cigarette smoke with a passion, and I know that my sensitivity wears off a little when I stuck around it for awhile. Not often thankfully.

Glad to hear you are settling down in Calgary. I hear it's chilly there.

I'm hoping for a snow day (or at least an icy roads day) here in western Mass.

[Blondie Baby]

Hey Allies! Dbf and I got up yesterday morning and did a long run. The weather is perfect for it! Good day today. Got up today and did a TamieLee video that sort of combines step aerobics and weight training. I love it! Took the kids to the beach yesterday. I was absolutely beautiful weather. Just a lovely day! Back to work tomorrow!

Weighed in this morning and still holding steady. Lokking for a drop soon now that the holidays are almostover for us!

Jillian - Funny! We posted at the same time! Thanks for consolidating!

Sandy-I have suffered from food allergies all my life. Ihave had that kind of reaction from MSG and from some milk products. Hope you feel better1

Sailor - good to see you!

[COLOR="Magenta"]Allies Exercising From New York to LA[/COLOR]
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Ninth Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Tenth Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles (we made it 11/18/07!)
Next stop: Denver, Colorado - 242 miles

124 + 8 for me yesterday and 3 today = 135 miles (107 to go!)

[speedymagee]

Hi Allies,

Sailor Nice to hear from you!
Maryam You are sure great at getting in the exercise! I'm sure you'll get a whoosh just by taking out processed stuff.
Jillian Thanks as always for your support.
BitsyMay

I am better today thankfully.
Honestly it kind of freaked me out. I would like to quit eating all products containing MSG, wheat, sweeteners, sugar. But I get freaked out just thinking about it. Psychologically I want to run to the bakery just thinking about quitting all that stuff.

Baby steps. I think my reaction was severe enough and uncomfortable enough that I will be diligent with avoiding all MSG in anything I buy. I'll start there and see how it goes.

No exercise
But on a positive note I started the new job today and it was great! When I was in Japan and even at my last job I found that work took up so much time! I often didn't have the time or energy(prolly bad eating didn't help!) to do the other things that I love to do.

My hope is that I can live off this one job (20ish hours per week) and have time to devote to the rest of my interests. We'll see.

sandy

[JillianDC]

Hi Allies,

I hope your week is starting out well! I got to the gym this morning and got in a good workout. I've got to run, but will come back to later to chat.

Allies Exercising From New York to LA
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Ninth Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Tenth Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles (we made it 11/18/07!)
Next stop: Denver, Colorado - 242 miles

135 + 6 for me today = 141 miles (101 to go!)

[Blondie Baby]

Good morning Allies! Looks like we are starting December strong! And remember, we want to finish this year BETTER, STRONGER and HEALTHIER than last year! I think this is a good time for all of us to reflect on the positive changes we have made this past year! And perhaps think about setting goals for next year. When DBF and I were running Sunday morning he mentioned that I was doing really great on running and we had managed to shave 5 minutes off our run time - which to him means we need to increase the distance! But it made me think - this time last year I could barely run 1 mile, and that was at a very slow pace! Look at me now, we ran 8 miles Sunday in 70 minutes!!!!! Not to mention the weight and inches lost! I think my goals for next year will be to 1)continue to work on my speed and endurance for running 2)continue fighting the fat that is left - especially inner thighs, back and arms 3)and really, really work hard to get that six pack I have always wanted - I'm so close!

I'm planning to do step aerobics and abs this afternoon. I'll post that mileage tomorrow.

Sandy - Glad to hear you are feeling better! I think once you get back into a good exercise routine you will have more energy! I'm so glad you like your new job!!!!

Jillian - As always - YOU ROCK!!!!! When is the party, it's coming very soon isn't it?

Bitsy - Where are you?

Sailor -

[Blondie Baby]

Allies - where are you? Is everyone busy with holiday stuff? Don't get so busy you forget to exercise and eat right! I had a really good workout yesterday - step aerobics and abs - and then walked up to GNC to get some supplements. The 1st week of the month we get a 20% discount with the card. Today I'm planning to do step again and lower body. I usually only do step every other day but I'm kinda off schedule this week. I want to do the lighter workout tomorrow - Thursday - because we will get up Friday morning and run, run, run!!!!!

[COLOR="Magenta"]Allies Exercising From New York to LA[/COLOR]
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Ninth Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Tenth Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles (we made it 11/18/07!)
Next stop: Denver, Colorado - 242 miles

141 + 5 for me yesterday = 146 miles (96 miles to go!)

[JillianDC]

Hi Allies,

Well the holidays officially kicked off for us tonight with a Hanukkah dinner with friends. I brought LC zucchini pancakes (to replace the traditional potato ones) and LC almond bars that I found on Linda Sue's recipe site. They were both a hit. We have several holiday parties coming up for Hanukkah, Christmas, and Kwanza, so it will be pretty busy through the end of the year and take much pre-planning, discipline and EXTRA exercise! The big formal party with my husband's firm is next Monday night.

Maryam: I absolutely agree that it's a good time to reflect on how far we've come and to start thinking about goals for next year. I'm almost 50 lbs lighter than this time last year, I've dramatically improved my eating and exercise habits and subsequently my health, and I'm happier with myself in general. I think what I'm most proud of is that I made up my mind to finally lose this weight and I actually did it. I didn't think it was really possible. For next year, I want to focus on toning/firming and getting stronger. I have poor upper body strength, but I know with hard work I can improve it. I may take some sort of dance classes or tennis lessons or something fun to shake things up.

Sandy: I'm glad the new job is going well and I hope you're feeling much better!!!! Please check in when you can.

Sailor: What have you been up to? Did you get a snow day yet? We're supposed to get some flurries tomorrow and DC practically shuts down at the first sign of snow. It's really ridiculous!

Julie: Are you still with us???

Tomorrow I'm going for a facial and I signed up to have a skin analysis on a new machine they have. I'm a little intimidated by it, but I'm determined to see what they recommend and do whatever I can (non-surgically at this point!) to look my best. Have a great night everyone and I'll see you tomorrow.

Allies Exercising From New York to LA
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Ninth Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Tenth Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles (we made it 11/18/07!)
Next stop: Denver, Colorado - 242 miles

146 + 6 for me today = 152 miles (90 to go!)

[speedymagee]

Hi Allies,

Maryam You go girl! You get that 6 pack! That's a good goal to have. Holy crap I can't believe you do 8 miles in 70 minutes, that's really speedy! Maybe you and DBF could enter a 5k race for fun and motivation. Hmmmm on second thought it's probably way too hot for that!

Jillian Those dishes you took both sound yummy! Let us know how your skin evaluation goes. They can do so much to improve our skin's appearance now without surgery. I'd love to get some kind of laser 'refreshing' done personally.

BitsyMay, Sailor Hello there, hope all is well!

I'm sorry for not checking in on a more regular basis, but the fact is I have 0 miles to log.

I had to transfer my car's insurance to our new province and for some stoooopid reason I'm in the same category as a 16 year old kid (going to Japan is the reason) and my insurance is going to be about $4000 for the year. OUCH that hurts. So I've been moping about that.

My new job is going to be fine I think. Yesterday we had our first wine training and I left work half loaded. Sheesh. It was pretty interesting, but definitely not LC.

I'm sorry I'm so long winded today, but I'm despairing about how and when I'm ever going to get exercising on a regular basis.

Ok off to work, have a great day!
sandy

[BitsyMay]

Hey guys, I'm still here. I've been really sick, I had phneumonia. Ugh, I am starting to feel better, and I'm back to work now but I still kind of feel like I got run over by a bus. I'll post more when I am feeling better, I just didn't want you guys to think I forgot about you.

[JillianDC]

Hi everyone,

I had a good today, first a workout, then some copywriting work for a new client, then my skin analysis and facial. The skin analysis was very positive. Apparently, I have good skin for my age. Would it be too much to have good skin for someone younger???? I've never had problem skin, but I'm not thrilled with the fine lines and wrinkles that have been emerging lately, so I opted for a light chemical peel in addition to my facial. My skin looks really great! I'll definitely be going back for more. I was advised that I would be a good candidate for Juvederm around the eye area, but I'm not quite ready for that. Maybe in the new year. Do any of you have experience with that? I have a friend in L.A. who's done it all (of course), so I left a message for her for some advice. One minute I think I'm being vain and stupid worrying about a few wrinkles, but then I say why not go for it? Especially after working so hard on the weight loss-- and continuing to do so. I'm open for opinions, though.

Julie: I'm so sorry to hear you've been sick, but glad you're still with us. Feel better and come back when you're up to it, even just to say hi.

Sandy: That car insurance is outrageous!!!! I hope it will go down eventually. I'm glad the job is going well. You had me laughing about the wine training -- I've never had a job with that perk!

Maryam: I hope you're doing well and working toward that six-pack. I know I'll never have one (seriously, I know what I'm capable of and that's definitely not in the cards), but I will be cheering you on!

Hi Sailor!

Have a great night everyone and I'll see you tomorrow.

Allies Exercising From New York to LA
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Ninth Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Tenth Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles (we made it 11/18/07!)
Next stop: Denver, Colorado - 242 miles

152 + 6 for me today = 158 miles (84 to go!)

[speedymagee]

Hi Allies,

Jillian That sounds like a nice treat! I don't know much about Juvederm. Not sure how I feel about needles in the face, but a friend of a friend did it and loves it. So just follow your heart, research, research, research, you deserve to treat yourself! My rule of thumb for these things is: is it safe and relatively risk-free, affordable (for me), will I feel better about myself?

BitsyMay Hope you're on the mend. Sending positive vibes

Maryam Hello You kind of got me thinking lately. About exercise. I could do at home workouts. In your opinion what are your top 2 favourite workout dvds?

I'm fine. I don't feel like I'm psychically settled yet I realize that I can't use inconvenience as an excuse to NOT EXERCISE. So I'm probably going to buy a 20 dollar yoga mat and a skipping rope. Problem solved. I wouldn't mind doing dvds at home if my work schedule is too tight, or the commute too long to make it to a gym regularly.

sandy

[Blondie Baby]

Good Morning Allies! Didn't get a workout in Wednesday but I did yesterday and got up this morning and went for along run! Felt good. The weather is getting quite cool! I had to bring along a sweatshirt to put on after we were done running cause I was cold!

We are getting closer to Denver! Lets hope we miss that big storm brewing in the mountains! Gonna be awful cold if we get snowed on!

Jillian - Never heard of Juvederm. But anything to do with needles, I won't do. Personally, I think you already look fantastic! I have always wanted a six pack and I decided that this is going to be the year I get it!

Sandy - Working out at home works very well for me because I can do it whenever I have time. My 2 favorite dvd's at the moment are TamieLee Webb Tighter Assets - CardioBlast and WeightLoss. The CardioBlast is 30minutes floor aerobics with focus on core muslces, plus it has a bonus 10min buns. The WeightLoss is 30 min sort of mixture between aerobics and weight training. I Love it! It doesn't seem especially hard when I'm doing it, but my legs and butt are always sore the next day!

Bitsy - for your health. Hope you get well soon.

[COLOR="Magenta"]Allies Exercising From New York to LA[/COLOR]
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Ninth Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Tenth Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles (we made it 11/18/07!)
Next stop: Denver, Colorado - 242 miles

158 + 5 for me yesterday and 8 today = 171 miles (71 to go!)

[JillianDC]

Hi Allies, TGIF!

I went to the gym this morning and am running off to a client meeting now, then off to to do holiday shopping and meet DH for dinner.

I've decided against any needles in the face -- at least for now and the near future. I'll stick with facials and occasional peels and things like that. I think that's all I need and I hate needles, too. Plus, if something goes wrong, I'll be angry with myself big time! My friend in L.A. said fillers around the eyes can be problematic and has seen some bad results and even serious eye problems as a result. So that confirmed my fear and my decision.

Maryam: Thanks for the compliment. I really need to focus on what's looking good and not obsessing over what's not. I'm working on it. So it's getting cool? I wish I was in a place where I only needed a sweatshirt. It snowed here a couple of days ago and has been in the freezing range. I've been walking around with so many layers that I look heavier than ever. (Fortunately, I'll be in Cabo in 2 weeks!!!!!!)

Sandy: Home workouts sound like a good solution. I hope that solves your workout dilemma and gets you back on track. I'm rooting for you!

Julie: I hope you're feeling better!

Hi Sailor!

Have a great day everyone and a terrific weekend. I'll see you soon.

Allies Exercising From New York to LA
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Ninth Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Tenth Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles (we made it 11/18/07!)
Next stop: Denver, Colorado - 242 miles

171 + 6 for me today = 177 miles (65 to go!)
__________________

[speedymagee]

Happy week-end Allies,

Will check in over the week-end.
sandy

[JillianDC]

Happy Saturday Allies!

I'm running out, but wishing you all a great weekend. See you later...

[JillianDC]

Hi Allies,

I skipped the gym yesterday, but made it there today and got in a very good workout. I survived a birthday/holiday party last night without going off track, so I'm feeling virtuous and proud of myself. They had some good-looking treats and drinks, but I stuck to LC choices and sparkling water. Tomorrow night is DH's party and I'm giving myself permission to have a little champagne and/or treats if I really want something. They do a fabulous party, so it's the one time to indulge... just a bit!

How are you all doing? Let's not lose momentum now...

Allies Exercising From New York to LA
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Ninth Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Tenth Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles (we made it 11/18/07!)
Next stop: Denver, Colorado - 242 miles

177 + 7 for me today = 184 miles (58 to go!)

Time to start thinking about our next stop! See you tomorrow.

[Blondie Baby]

Good Morning Allies! Hope everyone enjoyed the weekend! I got in a good workout yesterday despite the fact that the stomach bug that is going around found me! YUCK!!!!!!!!!!! I don't really feel bad, just need to stay VERY close to the bathroom! Planning to do aerobics and lower body today.

Maybe you all can help me. DD is turning 18 next week. 18 is a very big deal and I want to give her something special. She WANTS a Nokia N95 mobile phone which, right now, is running about $650. I just don't have that kind of money given the fact that I just had a birthday end of last month, Eid is a few days after her birthday and ds birthday is beginning of Jan! I can manage probably $400. And I would like to give her something that she will cherish and will be special. Any ideas?

Looks like I need to start looking for our next stop! We are kicking butt!!!!!

Jillian - Good for you on behaving at the party! Don't forget to take pics of DH's party. I WANT to see that dress! ITA that you should plan some indulgence. Especially since this is the ONE time you will want to indulge. Just be careful and don't overdue it!

Sandy - How are you? How is the weather in Calgary? My Mom in the Colorado Rockies says they had a big storm blow down out of the mountains this weekend. Got some good snow.

Bitsy - How's the pnuemonia? Hope you're feeling better

Sailor - Hope you are going to get some free time to enjoy the holidays!

[COLOR="Magenta"]Allies Exercising From New York to LA[/COLOR]
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Ninth Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Tenth Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles (we made it 11/18/07!)
Next stop: Denver, Colorado - 242 miles

184 + 5 for me yesterday = 189 miles (53 to go!)

[speedymagee]

Hi Allies,

I am cross eyed from watching movies this week-end. Waitress, The Contract, Blades of Glory, For Your Consideration, The Bourne Supremacy.

Goodish eats, but pants are feeling tight. TOM? Hope so. I'm really afraid of the scale.

Jillian Do take pics at the party. I think we'd all love to see your dress! Champagne is a nice treat!

Maryam Hope you are on the mend. Drink extra water, it's easy to dehydrate with those stomach bugs. How about a piece of jewelry for DD? Something special given to her by her mom, like a special necklace or ring or watch?

BitsyMay Hope you're better now and kicking some butt in karate class!

Sailor hi!

I had a box of clothes that I finally unpacked. These were things I thought special enough to save for the past 10 years. I packed them up when I left for Japan in '98. The colours EW! The style What was I thinking! They were all too loose though which really surprised me. I thought I was smaller then, but guess I was bigger.

[speedymagee]

Forgot to mention it's only -6(that's about 22F) here. Not bad, but maybe the storm is headed our way.

How's the weather where you guys are?

[JillianDC]

Hi Allies and a very happy Monday!

I went to the gym this morning and got it a good workout -- not that long, but pretty intense. I'm also happy to report that I'm down another lb!!!!! If I can lose one more before going to Cabo on Dec. 22, I will have a 50 lb loss in 2007!!! That would be amazing, but we'll see. (49 lbs is not too shabbly, but I like those round numbers.)

Sandy: Those outdated, baggy clothes should make you feel good about how far you've come, in terms of size and taste! What did you think of the movies? I LOVE movie marathon weekends! We watched "Blades of Glory" last week and thought it was very funny. We're major figure skating fans, so we especially appreciated it. I just got "Waitress" on Netflix, so we'll watch that soon. I saw "For Your Consideration" when it came out last year and thought it was pretty good, but Christopher Guest's other films, "Best in Show" and "Waiting for Guffman" are among my all-time favorites.
I'm glad it's not horribly cold there, but it sounds pretty cold to me. We had snow last week and it was cold through yesterday, but today is much milder in the low 50's. Much better!

Maryam: I hope you're feeling better soon! Good advice from Sandy about drinking your water. I also agree about the idea of jewelry for your DD. As much as she wants the phone now, she'll want a new one before you know it and it may be forgotten down the road. Jewelry is something she'll have forever. I still cherish special pieces from my parents that I got at her age. Let us know what you decide.

Hi Julie and Sailor. I hope all is well.

I'm running now to get a manicure for the big party tonight. We will take photos and I hope to post some this week. We'll see how they turn out. And yes, I will enjoy a little planned indulgence, even if it keeps me from losing that last stupid lb!!!! Have a great night everyone.

Allies Exercising From New York to LA
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Ninth Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Tenth Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles (we made it 11/18/07!)
Next stop: Denver, Colorado - 242 miles

189 + 6 for me today = 195 miles (47 to go!)

[Blondie Baby]

Good Morning Allies! Feeling much better this morning. At least I can get 5 feet from the bathroom!! I made sure to keep up my water intake, though I didn't drink as much as I normally do. Was feeling kinda weak yesterday after work but went ahead and did a TamiLee video. Like Jillians workout, short but intense! Felt good afterwards!

I was thinking jewelry for DD also. Since she doesn't like godl because of the color, I was thinking maybe some nice white gold. Also, there is a radio show we listen to every morning on the way to school/work. I have emailed them and asked them to say Happy Birthday to her. She will like that!

Jillian - You are kicking butt on the weighloss!!!!!!! You are gonna look FAB for the party! Can't weight to see pics! And even better on the beach! Bet this time last year you never imagined you'd be wearing a bikini in Cabo!

Sandy - I haven't had a movie marathon in awhile! Sounds like fun! My movie weekends usually end up being a bunch of kids movies! The weather here is lovely! Averaging 30C (86F) during the day and down to about 20C (68F) in the evenings. Perfect for going to the park or the beach!

Bitsy and Sailor -

[COLOR="Magenta"]Allies Exercising From New York to LA[/COLOR]
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Ninth Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Tenth Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles (we made it 11/18/07!)
Next stop: Denver, Colorado - 242 miles

195 + 3 for me yesterday = 198 miles (44 to go!)

[BitsyMay]

Hello Allies. Sorry I haven't been posting, but I hadn't been going to the gym so I kept avoiding coming in here...ugh, I finally made it back there yesterday. I could have gone back sooner, my Dr cleared me to go back last Thurday, but I got lazy. I haven't had a chance to go back and read what you all have logged, but I hope everyone is doing great. I need to get my butt back in gear, I am so close to the 40lbs mark..I could get there by the end of the week if I really kick it up.

Have any of you thought about how you're going to handle the holidays yet? I think I am going to actually let myself eat whatever I want, but only on Christmas Eve. I have to work Christmas day. I just don't want to be miserable worrying about my calories and stuff and I figure I can't do too much damage in one day. We do Christmas eve at my sisters house and her husband makes the most amazing calzones, seriously, they're incredible. Also, I always make mud puddle cookies and don't wnat to dissapoint anyone this year, and if I make them I am certainly going to eat them! I'm doing fine avoiding the crap stuff at work, it's been a food frenzy there ever since Thanksgiving and I have not endulged yet. So what do you guys plan on doing?

Allies Exercising From New York to LA
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Ninth Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Tenth Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles (we made it 11/18/07!)
Next stop: Denver, Colorado - 242 miles

198 + 6 for me yesterday = 204 miles (38 to go!)

[Blondie Baby]

Good Morning Allies! Good workout for me yesterday! I did Step Reebok - the Power Workout and then walked up to the supermarket to pick up coffee. We had run out and I refuse to DBF's Nescafe! I hate that stuff!!! Tonight I'm thinking Cardioblast and Lower Body!

I think I may get DD a nice pair of white gold and diamond(tiny) earrings. I think they are elegant and a fitting gift for a girl passing into young womanhood.

Jillian - How was the party? Can't wait to hear all the details! And see pics!!!!

Sandy - Hope you are doing okay! BTW I meant to tell you, I got my dvd's from Amazon.com. I had them in like 2 weeks!

Bitsy - on finally getting back to the gym! So glad you are feeling better. Sounds like a good plan for the holidays. What are mud puddle cookies? That sounds like something my kids would like. I don't do Christmas and New Years so can't give any advice!

I'll post later with our newest destination!

[COLOR="Magenta"]Allies Exercising From New York to LA[/COLOR]
First stop: Philadelphia - 110 miles (we made it!)
Second stop: Gettysburg - 106 miles (we made it 7/30/07!)
Third stop: Pittsburgh - 151 miles (we made it 8/13/07!)
Fourth stop: Columbus, Ohio - 162 miles (we made it 8/23/07!)
Fifth stop: Indianapolis, Indiana - 167 miles (we made it 9/5/07!)
Sixth stop: Chicago, Illinois - 159 miles (we made it 9/16/07!)
Seventh Stop: Dubuque, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 9/26/07!)
Eighth Stop: Des Moines, Iowa - 161 miles (we made it 10/11/07!)
Ninth Stop: Lincoln, Nebraska - 167 miles (we made it 10/31/07!)
Tenth Stop: North Platte, Nebraska - 215 miles (we made it 11/18/07!)
Next stop: Denver, Colorado - 242 miles

204 + 4 for me yesterday = 208 miles (34 to go!)

[Blondie Baby]

Okay ladies. I've done a search and we are getting into the country of WIDE OPEN spaces. The cities aren't so close together here in the west. So our next destination is going to be somewhat farther than we are used to but I figure it will give us the incentive to really kick it into high gear after the holiday! Just look ladies - Only 3 more states to go and we have traversed the ENTIRE USA!!!!!!!

Our next destination is Salt Lake City - 368 mile from Denver!

[BitsyMay]

Good Morning Allies. We're gearing up for a couple snow storm over the next few days. Tomorrow afternoon we are getting about 6" and Saturday night we're getting a Nor'easter and they're not saying how much snow yet. I need to take advantage of the good weather days and make sure I make it the gym on those days incase I am snowed in on the other days.

Maryam, Mud puddles are regular chocolate chip cookies and as soon as you get them out of oven you stick a mini reeses penut butter cup in the middle. It works best if you take the cookies out a minute or 2 early, that way they are soft enough.

[speedymagee]

Hi Allies,

Just checking in. I feel a bit under water in the work department. I'm just concentrating on eating as well as possible. I'll weigh myself at the end of TOM in a few days to see where I'm at.

Maryam Thanks for sorting out our next destination. The earrings will be treasured by your dd!

Jillian Congratulations on losing another pound! You are rawking through the holidays!

Bitsymay I don't think I'll have to worry about the holidays as much this year. Our families are not in the city, so no big carb fests to attend hopefully. Your plan sounds good, you'll be fine.