Thistle

Thanks, Melyssa. I found that a nice, calm beginner's yoga gets me lined up, as well. I did manage to do a workout that night, but missed my second one for the week. Must do better this week! Good luck on your thru-hike goal. Backpacking can be such fun - I wish you the best of luck on your hikes.

Keep it up - you're doing great! Did you make the distance you wanted to when you got out to run?

So, three days in. I've done well on my diet. I'm currently hungry, which is a good sign as it's about half an hour 'till dinner time here. Doing well on the 'keep moving' goal as well; my husband has been taking me on a walk in the evenings. We call it "walking Mom." It works best to wait until the starts to set, as it has been hot and muggy here. Last night, full dark fell before we could get out, so I did yoga indoors instead and called it good. I really need to do a workout, though, if I'm going to make it to my goal of twice this week. Anyone seen my gumption? I will go figure out what I need to do from the fitness guide while dinner I cook up some rice to go with the black beans I made yesterday. Knowing that someone is going to come by and read this means I'll actually do it.

Thanks - I love the name of your group.

Hi everyone! I'm new here at NF, and jumping in to my first challenge. My goals for this challenge are to basically jump-start my weight loss, and to strengthen up. I had a back injury about 9 years ago, and have just never been quite right since. Time to get my core back in shape (gently, gently!) The ultimate goal? To never hear, "Mom, don't do that, you have a bad back!" again. Glad to meet you all, and I look forward to getting to know you over the course of the challenge.

Cool! What variety did you get? Chickens are probably in the plans for next spring.

Thanks - I'm really thrilled about the homestead. I so don't want to be sidelined from the fun and work because of my "bad back." I'm hoping that joining up here at NF helps keep me on track.

Main Quest: Get healthy and strong. My husband, boys, and I are starting a new homestead. There is much digging, lifting, building and post-setting to be done. I have had back surgery before, so I need to be careful and safe about any fitness regime. Slow and steady! Specific Missions: 1. Calorie reduction: Count calories via MyNetDiary for 6 days each week at 1 lb/week weight loss. Taking hubby's birthday off. 2. Keep moving: Walk at least 6 days a week. One time around the block if hurting or raining; at least two otherwise. 3. Start training: 1st level nerd fitness workout 2x a week. Life Quest: Stay on top of homeschooling - detailed assignments for the week planned by Sunday, and everything graded the same day it is completed. Starting Statistics: Female, 42 years old Will edit tomorrow with starting weight and measurements. ETA: Weight: 153.4 lbs Hip: 43.8" Waist: 39.5" Chest: 41.3" Thigh: 23" Calf: 14" Bicep: 12" Next: 13.5" I took before photos, and though I am not posting them, they are quite motivational.

Those are wonderful goals. I love the idea of an 'I need a break' corner. Best of luck - I'll be following along for motivation.

Hi fellow nerds, I'm a geeky middle-aged Mom of two teenage boys, married to another geek, and generally quite happy with my life. However, it's high time I get back into shape. I'm glad you all are here, and I'm hoping to find some online friends for mutual goal support. I've never been a skinny gal, but I did a lot of hiking, cycling, and some weight lifting in my younger years. About nine years ago, I had a herniated disc in my lower back. After the operation, I never quite got my back and core muscles whipped into shape. I'm currently 20 lbs overweight, and without much strength or stamina. Too much exertion sends me into back spasms, and I'm laid up for days. I am starting this summer, but am going to be advancing my goals with caution. My long-term goal is to be able to be fit enough to do real work on the homestead we're moving to next year. I'm starting with daily walks to strengthen my back, and what I can do of the beginner's body weight workout twice a week. I welcome any advice, words of encouragement, or good jokes.