It's a beautiful day here today ... trying to get all my chores done this morning so I can get out and enjoy the day! I walked with my hiking sticks yesterday and plan to do the same today! They really do make a difference. I wish I had had them yesterday when I walked from one business to another-- though not sure I am comfortable using them on a public walkway (vs a trail). Also, I was wearing a dress and I can't really imagine using hiking poles when I am wearing a dress (rather than athletic clothing). SO and I disagree on this topic ... he thinks I should do whatever is required to get out and have fun/get exercise and be safe, balanced. I can't disagree with him but I do need some time to adjust ... at least mentally. I don't like drawing attention to myself.

This week, I am working on improved sleep, increased water and a more positive self image. Last week and yesterday in particular were terrible self-image days. I need to tamp down the negative thoughts and attitude.

Starting some Pilates exercises, embarrassingly slow going but I think if I keep at it, things will improve. Because I have positional vertigo I cannot do the exercises that require one to be flat and supine. I am doing other types of exercise as well, under the general theory that the more moving around the better.

@lucillle - Pilates has so many great things going for it. I bet you get stronger quickly.

@Sueb20 - walks and cooking at home sound like the healthiest of weeks. have a great time at the beach.

@Funkyart - You are a healthy lifestyle star! It's a long process, so of course you will have weeks more challenging than others, but I know you will bounce back. I really hope you will become comfortable with the walking sticks. I think all the benefits - being outside, stability, freedom, exercise - will really be worth it to you. And please don't let one picture upset you. Everyone can look off in candid pictures. That's why most people take about 20 and then use filters:) It's a very brief second in time, 2 dimensional, with possibly distorted angles. It is not how people see you.

I listened to yet another really good podcast I'd like to share. This one really hit home for me I guess, because although the guest was an expert, he was also an actual trainer that had worked with mostly women for the last 20 years. And it's something about knowing what works for real people that makes me want to try their ideas. His wasn't anything new - the old building muscle line :) But for some reason the way he said it really hit home with me. He talked about muscle giving you the flexibility to eat more/not be so strict with your food choices. I've heard it a lot, but he pointed out he would physically train his clients for a month or so before they even talked about food. Because the small change in muscle, strength, the way they carried their bodies, all made them believers. He also said if he had a client that would work with him AND a therapist at the same time, the results were phenomenal! The psychology of food, eating, weight, appearances - it's pretty complicated stuff.

So I did pretty well this week, prioritizing 15-20 minutes of weights before my walk. Walking is good, but this is going to be my number one priority for awhile. If I still want to walk or play pickleball, etc. in addition to my weights, then fine. But they are getting done every day.

Here's the link to the video podcast- Focus on Muscle - of course you can find it on Apple or Spotify if you want to listen.

@Feathers11 - your post from last week was right after I listened and I thought to myself - that's exactly what he said would happen! Keep us posted on the gym plan. I'm considering that myself, but for now I have enough weights and equipment at home to keep me going for awhile.

I hope everyone has a great week!

Legomom, thanks for sharing that podcast. I'll definitely watch/listen this week.

Here's another good one: https://dhrupurohit.com/dp-ep409/#ql-video I like how she didn't accept her doctor's attitude that weight gain is just a part of aging. I also really like him as a podcast host.

My regular walking partner is laid up for a few months, and so I've been listening to lots and lots of podcasts on my walks.

Funky, here's one for you: https://hubermanlab.com/how-to-enhance-performance-and-learning-by-applying-a-growth-mindset/ I wanted to reply to your note in last week's thread, but didn't have a chance. I understand how we can become discouraged and negative. But I want to point out a few verbs about you (the podcast notes the importance of using verbs as motivation, rather than labels, and the science behind this is fascinating). Funky, you have diligently kept these weekly threads going for this group and anyone who wants to join in. You have graciously and supportively encouraged every one of us. You have modeled what it is to be consistent in reaching your health goals, and have remained focused on long-term health. You have also demonstrated normal feelings of frustration when progress isn't happening quickly--we all have faced this--but you also don't allow yourself to dwell there too long. You have persevered in getting back on track when, for whatever reason, you fall to the wayside. You continue to overcome obstacles and prioritize your health and your future. You've inspired me, more than you know! Keep at it.

Thank you for the podcast links, I could use the motivation. Last week I returned home from my trip, it is still a difficult transition for some reason. I am not eatting horribly but I could be better. Between my painful shoulder, heat and humidity, my excercise is not up to par either. I think I will turn on some of my favorite music and dance away a half hour, at least I will be moving. I am doing good with both water and protein consumption, happy about that.

I met a new group of hikers on Saturday! We did an almost 10 mile hike in the Smokies. We were supposed to stay 2 nights, but the cabin DH had booked had no bathroom, and we decided we did not want to hike the distance to the bath house, so we went to another (adorable) place, but they only had one night available...so we drove home after the hike. We DID get a lot done on Sunday, so it worked out OK.

Seriously LOVING the Pilates!! I had to up to the Unlimited plan, because originally, I purchased an 8 class package, did 2 classes per week, then ran out of class credits with a week left!!. I decided I needed 3 classes per week, anyway. LOL.

Thank you soooo much @feathers <3. I so appreciate you and all of the posters here. You give me hope, support and the kick in the pants when I need it.

I will absolutely listen to the podcast .. but in the morning. I do need to reshape my thinking. I became very aware of it tonight when I mentioned that I think I need to get the skirt I was wearing in a size larger. It was a straight denim skirt a few inches above my knees. Not my usual skirt and I wasn't feeling comfortable in it. My niece told me to grab the sides at the hip ... i could get a handful on both sides. I don't need a larger size. I need to feel better about myself in clothes. OK, well out of clothes also lol. I just need to feel better about myself. Period.

It will come back again. I was feeling good about myself and my progress a few months ago.. and a year ago. I need to refind that person. Thank you for seeing her when I don't, Feathers! <3

So glad to hear of everyone's progress. I will post more tomorrow in response-- but you are all inspiring! Thank you!

Feathers-- thank you again for the podcast link! It really hit on a number of levels. In fact, it has me thinking about an employee issue in a completely new and fresh way. I need to internalize it a bit more ... I am sure that I will revisit this in my mind through the coming weeks, months!

I'm glad you gained from it, Funky. It's influenced how I offer praise in my interpersonal relationships, as well as my own self-talk. Interesting stuff, for sure.

Hi, everyone, I am back from my travels. Got to spend some time in the pools at the my sister’s and niece’s houses, and we went to Zumba a few times. I definitely burn more calories in person, probably because I’m so excited to be there. Weather was so nice, but it’s super hot and humid here again. Just did the virtual Zumba on the deck and even at 9 a.m. with the industrial fan in the shade it was still a little miserable. But otherwise it will be too hot for outdoor time.

Had my Pilates private session yesterday and small group reformer is tomorrow. I did mat on Monday at the Y. @lucille, it gets better, I promise. Just keep at it and you will be hooked like @Springroz and me. I am so much stronger, especially in my core where I really needed it.

I did OK eating wise while gone, just a little more alcohol than normal. But I still need to regroup and get back on the weight loss train again. I should have my coworker do my body comp at the end of the summer before classes start.

Just remember, we are in for the long haul!

Gotta showeer head out for hair trim now that I’ve cooled down some. Stay cool, everyone.