I’ve been on vacation, celebrating my birthday in high style, since last Friday. Up here on the river, it’s mostly been a very blissful experience, floating about on the water, visiting with friends, eating well, and generally feeling very happy. Yesterday I went for a good run. But I’m feeling a little bit nervous because I don’t know what all this celebrating is meaning for my weight.
I know one friend who brings her scale with her wherever she goes. I actually considered that – we drove up in two cars, so there was plenty of room – but I resisted. But being without it has made me realize how I rely on it to keep on track. I know, I know, there is the whole “throw your scale away!” contingent out there. I realize that I’m not ready to do it. I actually HAVE been known to gain as much as 5 lbs (more?) in a week. And if that happens, I’ll deal with it. But I do think that knowing, on a daily basis, if it has crept up one or two, really does help keep me accountable.
I’m just… curious. On the day of my big birthday party, we had lots of good food. Including cake. I didn’t go WILD but I was nibbling a lot through the day. I had one piece of cake (it was goooooooooood) and luckily for me, we finished it off in one sitting so there were no leftovers. Last night we went out to dinner. Tonight we’re going to a birthday celebration for my cousin-in-law, who is also staying up here for vacation. I just don’t know what the cumulative effect of all of this is.
It makes me relieved that now that I am a Lifetime member of WW which means I only have to weigh in once a month instead of once a week. I am confident that I’ll be able to get back into range by next month. But if it was a weekly situation, probably not. (sigh) HOW unfair is it that it’s so easy to gain 3-5 pounds in a week, and almost impossible to lose the same?
I guess I will find out when we go home on Friday. Meanwhile, I’m wondering.
August 18, 2009 at 1:08 pm
I used to weigh daily, but I would get so upset if I was ever up even a few tenths of a pound. I weigh now ONLY once/week. I used to be totally attached. I’m sure you’ll be fine 🙂
August 18, 2009 at 1:08 pm
As much as I tell myself I wouldn’t be lost without my scale…I would be. I don’t let the number on the scale control me as much as I used to, but seeing a loss or even a gain keeps me motivated to push myself another week.
I am so glad you are having a wonderful time at the river with friends. I know this is easier said than done, but try not to stress! The most important thing is that you are enjoying yourself!
August 18, 2009 at 1:09 pm
You are SO RIGHT! How can it be so easy to gain 3-5 in a week but not be able to lose it for a month?
August 18, 2009 at 1:13 pm
I gained about 3 lbs on our trip to Maine, what is weird is I ate pretty well. Well the food we ate wasn’t great but I never overate. I also spent all of friday paddling. Even weirder, my husband who loses weight by sneezing gained 5 lbs. We both choose to believe it’s muscle.
August 18, 2009 at 1:16 pm
I can relate. I missed a ‘weigh-in’ day when I was vacationing in Seattle last month. I considered buying as scale while I was out there, but figured it was a waste of money. I didn’t want to down-grade and purchase a different scale. What if it was totally off?! What is it was totally ON?! I won’t lie, I was sort of consumed by the idea of missing my weigh-in for an entire Sunday. It was scary, but funny at the same time. We will probably all come to a point where the scale loses much of its meaning (hopefully!).
Good luck!
August 18, 2009 at 1:17 pm
Okay, so do you mean a food scale — or a weight scale?
If it’s a weight scale, personally I say no. LISTEN TO YOUR BODY. But I get that takes time & it can be scary at first. You’re getting there. Listen to your body & stomach, not your head (if you get what I mean…emotions, stress, anxiety, etc.)
Find what works for you and what makes you comfortable. Also remember that you can indulge, just not all the time. Be sure to eat enough ‘healthy’ foods too.
Remember it’s about balance & consistency.
Oh, and have FUN (sounds fabulous!)
August 18, 2009 at 1:19 pm
I would be totally lost without my scale. I don’t weigh on the weekends and it’s obvious on Mondays! You should just enjoy yourself – you are so super disciplined that no matter the fallout you’ll be fine.
August 18, 2009 at 1:23 pm
oh yes…. I used to bring my scale with me on “car” vacations.
I dont anymore, mostly because I already drive myself insane, but i agree with you a few pounds creep up so quickly and then it takes you 3xs as long to lose them!
August 18, 2009 at 1:27 pm
I say let it go…for the time being! Enjoy your time and happy belated birthday!
August 18, 2009 at 2:57 pm
Happy Birthday! (I know I am a bit late.) But I wanted to say it anyway because I love birthdays and celebrations and you are funny and amazing. And I love that you are having a birthday celebration consisting of DAYS! That is how it should be.
Enjoy . . . . try forgetting about the scale and just think happy healthy thoughts and I am sure it will be there when you get back and it will be fine!
August 18, 2009 at 3:45 pm
I can totally understand where you’re coming from… It sounds as if you’ve got things under control though. Glad you’re having a good time!
August 18, 2009 at 10:29 pm
Try to not wonder too hard and enjoy the moment! But yep, I understand how you feel. When on vacation, I try to not worry about it too much. (Sometimes, for me, a regular week is more challenging than a vacation week!) It sounds like you’ve got a realistic perspective for dealing with it when you get home. We’re in it for the long haul, right?
August 19, 2009 at 11:59 am
I’ve been living without my scale this week too. No vacation, just not getting on the scale for two weeks. I’m also starting to wonder what this will mean for my weigh-in next week. I’ve been still eating right, but I feel kind of like I’m walking a tightrope without a net. Without getting on the scale every day, food has been a little more tempting. I’m resisting for the most part, but we will see.
At least you’ll have a vacation to blame any gains on. And once you’re back, you know you’ll get right back on track! Enjoy your birthday celebration! 🙂