Let's get this group posting again!

We had a group of folks posting regularly for a while and now are down to just the roll call posts again. What can we do to get things going again?? I think during the next challenge round we will try to form some mini-groups within the larger group and do some weekly challenges as well. Maybe have groups that are at about the same weight when we start OR groups that are at about the same point postop when we start, etc. Then, for example, do a weekly challenge to see which group does better at implementing a change or something... Give me some feedback!! Lea

how about an "at goal, in maintenance mode" group?

How's your back?? I hope that the migraines don't become chronic for your daughter... Mine started about the time I hit puberty, so I know what it is like! An at goal/in maintenance group makes sense. We don't have many folks in that bracket, so it would be a small group, but a good one! And, folks like Dave may fit in there too as he said he really doesn't want to lose more weight, but he hasn't committed to just maintaining yet either. He may by Jan 1 though! Lea

my back's still achey and it doesn't help that flo's on her way into town as well but thanks for asking! i'm worried that my daughter has inherited our family history of migraine disease. i started having them when i was 6 years old so i wouldn't be a bit surprised. (although i'm hoping it was a one-time thing for her and was somehow sinus related.) i don't really think i'm quite in maintenance mode but i have surpassed my original AND my new year's goals so i guess i probably SHOULD be in maintenance. i'm really just kinda lost as to what exactly that means. but i don't want to leave this group either because i'm scared about NOT having this accountability. does that make sense? i'm afraid that if i leave the group and don't have the weekly weigh-ins that i'll start to slip up and let those old habits creep back in.

Well, you certainly do NOT have to leave just because you don't care if you continue to lose or not! A goal can be to maintain and not lose or gain.... No problems there! As I have said again and again, it is about supporting each other in our goals. A goal to maintain is a goal! Accountability is going to be necessary for MOST of us in order to maintain after we decide we've lost all we want to... I know that I can not fathom not weighing in each day or at least every couple of days as you'd have to see that things were going one way or the other that way and could take action more quickly than if you didn't weigh except when you went to your surgeon or PCP (maybe a month or more between visits) and then may have a big drop OR GAIN to make up for! Lea

I like that idea.

Love the avatar! You're moving right along, aren't you! The suggestion of more specific challenges was made during this week's roll call post chat. I'm just not quite sure what all we can do with the group dynamics we have at this time. For example, Amanda's suggestion of an at goal group--we probably have less than 5 folks who would consider themself at or near that point. We have folks who are 3+ years postop and don't consider themself at goal! I guess that is why I posted this message--to get more ideas from you guys as to how/what we can do to change things up a bit and keep folks more involved! Lea

well, I am posting again (lol) I had a hard time finding the post site. Still trying to catch up w/the technology. I am on track, I am now weighing in at 184 lbs. My goal is 178, so only 6 more pounds and I will have made my Mini Challenge a reality......I think I did pretty well getting through Thanksgiving, now to get through Christmas.

That sounds like fun... I've just been bogged down with MOM and work etc... sorry I really enjoy the support I get here... I'm up 4 pounds as had to take steroids for a week well 5 days and it always makes me gain...booooooooooo so back over 160 to 161 blah! I'll get it off though, they think I may have actually ruptured one of my herniated discs in the lumbar region so not exercising right now... I'm eating way too many carbs too, i've got to get my head together on that... not good...I think the back thing along with the plastic surgery postponed etc put me in a mild depression, and then the steroids wow... but I'M having about 14 people over here tonight for a Christmas Party, our Sunday school class, i'm really looking forward to it, i got up early and made two chillis, one is: 7 bean white chili , and the other is a spicy beef chili with lean stew beef and about 5 different beans... so yummy and good for you too... I've got veggie platters, cheese balls, nuts, and everyone that's coming is bringing a side dish and or a dessert, I don't do desserts...

Well, i too enjoy posting and reading with all the support here. i know that I am not alone when i struggle.. for me the last few weeks have been hard. between my mother and my children and work.. i am lucky to eat the right foods, and take the time. I do want to thank everyone for being here. It helps when its 2 am and I can not sleep to read what was posted and feel there is another world out there.. Thank you all... Cynthia