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  • Egads007
    Egads007 Member Posts: 1,603
    edited December 2018

    Good Morning Cave Chicks!!|

    Right to business.....

    Inna (godda davida) - You made me laugh!! No we certainly can't have Ryan crying!

    KSuze - Happy to see you come up for air! Still snowed under? Hope not!

    TwoH - Hey darlin! Glad to see you're on the road to recovery.....slow as it is....take it easy, you had a rough time of it!! Within a pound of high school weight, WOW, pat yourself on the back....that is awesome!! Just don't get sick again to take off that last pound please :)) Your meal was well deserved and glad you enjoyed it! I'm crossing fingers your recovery is complete soon.....low energy sucks!!! The PSTD is awful isn't it......I'm going to be working hard on it (yearly mammo in March) as I'm sick of the cycle...time to do something real about it. I echo you on the Kraft thing....disappointing. I'm keeping a close watch on this one and if he starts pushing Kraft products I'll only access his achieves. I'm thinking he won't......but wading carefully now. *sigh* geeze! holyconflictofinterest Batman! :))))

    Pebbles (Flintstone) - I had no idea what Rainbow Bridge was.....but now I do. Previously it was a way to get over Niagara Falls from Ontario hence my NY state question :)))) What a sweet expression.....and I'm sorry to read about Kit Kat, losing them is so hard. They truly take your heart. I lost my lil Belly (full moniker: Belle Eugenia Victoria) years ago...still miss her! The 10-15 lbs gain during treatment is about average, and entirely beatable....stick with us we'll have you craving carbs and whining about squats and lunges before you know it :))))) Seriously though, give yourself some time to get on your feet, keep the sugar out and eat as clean as possible right now....your mind has to heal along with the bod. I'm sure you are still beautiful, extra pounds and all! Pawsome lol.....more likely Cavesome :)) Hang in on the home stretch sweetie, almost there WOOT!!

    All - Getting back with a Workout Wednesday post was an utter fail….my bad and my apologies.The season is definitely upon us…..and I don't know about your cave, but mine is buzzing with Christmas prep. Anyhoodle, I'll be combining days this week and bringing you a two fer'.

    WORKOUT WEDNESDAY & TUTORIAL THURSDAY – Slow down….not so fast!!!!

    Cardio….important stuff. We're beaten over the head with the thought that at least 30 minutes per day ofintense aerobic exercise is essential. Break a sweat! Get that heart rate pumping at a sustained 80% Run your legs off! We are convinced that the key to staying healthy is doing more mileage at high intensity is good…..great for the heart.

    NOT SO.

    If you are taking your cardio to the upper limits (80%) at each session, you're working in a state of something called CONSTANT CARDIO.

    How many of you endure daily sweat sessions on the dreadmill, elliptical, and spin classes only to see little to no difference on the scale or on the tape measure? So FRUSTRATING!!! Why the heck isn't the fat melting away? I'll tell ya' why…… humans are not meant nor built to engage in the intense levels of cardio that is generally suggested by 'the experts'. Matter of fact, constant cardio can have detrimental effects on the ol' bod. Here's why….

    "Once you get into the zones where less fat is burned (above 65%) and where there's a big dependency on glucose to fuel muscles, your body goes into a less efficient mode of fuel oxidation. This kind of training raises cortisol levels, increases oxidative damage, systemic inflammation, depresses the immune system and decreases fat metabolism. About the only thing good it does is improve cardiac muscle strength – and even then you get too the point of diminishing returns fairly quickly"

    Did you see that??? "DECREASES FAT METABOLISM" This is why you work your patootie off, sweat like a maniac while crushing it on the elliptical all week……only to see an uncooperative scale number….or even WEIGHT GAIN. Yes, running your butt off can stall or increase your weight woes!!

    *

    The costs of chronic (repetitious) mid- and high-level aerobic work

    • requires large amounts of dietary carbohydrates (SUGAR)
    • decreases efficient fat metabolism
    • increases stress hormone cortisol (the stress hormone….makes the body hang tight to fat cells)
    • increases systemic inflammation
    • increases oxidative damage (free radical production)
    • increases injury risk, can lead to bone damage through overworked joints etc (eg: osteoarthritis)
    • it's really boring!!

    *

    So what's a dedicated Cave Chick to do?

    60-70% cardio for most people…..you'll find the charts on most gym cardio equipment. It's the ideal level of activity for decreasing body fat, increasing the capillary network, and for lowering blood pressure and reducing risk for degenerative diseases, including heart disease.

    Slow up on that machine, slow down on the running……take most of your cardio in low level walking and hiking. Then take a HIIT……a few times a week go hell bent for leather for 30 seconds to a minute sprinkled throught your cardio session. …or sprint if walking.

    *

    The benefits of low level aerobic work (walking, hiking, cycling, swimming):

    • increases capillary network (blood vessels that supply the muscle cells with fuel and oxygen)
    • increases muscle mitochondria
    • increases production of fat-burning and fat-transporting enzymes
    • more fun, because you can talk with a partner while doing it

    *

    The benefits of interval training (sprinting in short intense bursts)

    • increases muscle fiber strength
    • increases aerobic capacity (work ability)
    • increases muscle mitochondria (the main energy production center in muscle)
    • increases insulin sensitivity
    • increases natural growth hormone production

    *

    80% of our body composition is down to want we put in our tummy…..20% is activity level and type. Don't waste your time on possible overtraining in the cardio department….."walk slow and walk far" every day. Strength training is your friend…start a regime of 2-3 sessions 30-40 minutes long, add low level cardio. This may just make the difference on the scale.

    *

    Personal Take: I sweated buckets on cardio machines with little to no weight loss for over a year. It wasn't until I concentrated on strength training and slowed down to 60-70% heart rate levels levels and added strength training that I noticed a difference in weight loss, muscle mass, strength and energy. My cardiovascular health and blood work is better than the 'hell bent for leather' days…..and the big bonus is that I no longer have to run….I hate running! :)))))

    Slow down n' have some fun with it...…

    image




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  • Pi-Xi
    Pi-Xi Member Posts: 348
    edited December 2018

    Egads speaks the truth.I can attest to the fact that strength training yields fat loss. Unfortunately, I’d like to stop losing it now!

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  • PebblesV
    PebblesV Member Posts: 658
    edited December 2018

    Pi-Xi - can we do a trade, I give you my extra weight that I need to lose, and you hand over your ability to keep losing weight? :-P

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  • vampeyes
    vampeyes Member Posts: 1,227
    edited December 2018

    Egads - Tuesday is my first PT appointment, looking forward to having a routine set out to strengthen my spine and shoulder. I am contemplating getting back to the gym, if I could do the weight exercises at home I would definitely prefer it, is it possible? Could you just fly here in January and be my personal trainer?

    Oh Pi-Xi I would love that ability too - you must share your secret with all of us!!!

    Pebbles - almost there, and doing great, 4 more to go!!! I bet your tucker would be along fabulously with my Stella. These are my current fur babies, Stella and Hoover. I snuck Hoover in for some cuddle time yesterday, while DH was at work. hehe

    Stella

    Stella and Hoover

    Well all I did it, due to the damage to my shoulder and the osteoarthritis I gave my notice to my clients. As of December 21st I will be unemployed and as of January 2019 I will be "finding myself" and enjoying staying home doing what I love (baking, cooking and crafting). :) I kind of got use to the whole do what I want, make my own schedule life so not sure where life is going to take me now.

    Have a great day ya'll.

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  • Egads007
    Egads007 Member Posts: 1,603
    edited December 2018

    Top o' the morning Cave Goils!!

    My personal challenge goals are steadily being met and with the help of my Cavedude I expect we'll be done by Sunday. After a few challenging moments we actually managed to get our upside down Christmas tree into place.....decorating it tonight. What a project that was!!! Thankfully neither of us ended up incarcerated for killing the other.....yes, it was one of those 'couples projects' that brings out the inner beast.....mine more than his. I'm glad I can't read his mind....probably would have been bad news. My Cavedude is a pretty much a laid back patient man, but I'm thinking I better hide the steak knives during our decorating session tonight :))))) Should be nice though, we're having Paleo finger foods while the tree 'dons it's gay apparel'....covered in bacon grease :))))

    On to business....

    Pixi(dust) - If I may be so bold as to ask.....what up with the undesired weight loss darlin'? Not surprising that my first thought was the same as Pebbles & Vamp ;) but yeah, going too far down on the scale can be as frustrating and worrisome as weight gain.....was there myself a few times, so I hear you.

    Vampriella - Yes, yes, YES!!.....home strength training is def possible at home....even without gym equipment!! You get yourself all PT'd up, healed and green lighted by the docs and we'll go for broke! I'm looking forward to working up the doable routine we spoke about.....as well as one day meeting up to train together the next time I fly home. You need time to get things in order, and I don't fly in the winter so the timing is perfect. Come spring, your a** is grass :)))))) I love Stella....I think she's my soul dog. What a sweetie! As for your 'new life', well you know how excited I am for this new chapter in your life.....all the freedom of 'your schedule', 'your time'....and the possibilities in the unknown.....will be cool to be along for the ride. I was driving home last night and a song came on the radio....I instantly thought of you and your new step forward. Had a great big grin on my face. Lynard Skynard's 'Call me the Breeze'....

    "Well now, they call me the breeze, I keep blowin' down the road........I ain't got me nobody (clients),I don't carry me no load.....Well, I got that green light baby, I got to keep movin' on"

    Whooooooooooooooo, Ms. Breeze! :) Love that song, epitomizes rockabilly honky tonk.

    Sidenote, I can actually play the heck out of the guitar solos on this song.....ok so it was on Rockband….cut me some slack :)))))))

    Enough of my babble.....on to more business.....

    FOODIE FRIDAY!!!! - We won't go until we get some!

    Time for a roundup kids.....what's going on your Christmas Dinner Table? I'm still scrounging for some good side dishes and having trouble deciding. I'm lucky to only be hosting 8 people so I have plenty of room to move on menus. So far.....

    • Spiced Roast Goose (Ramsay recipe, vid to follow if you're interested)
    • Curried Apricot Glazed Ham
    • No Beef, decided against it….my asshat of a BIL doesn't deserve it :))))))))
    • Roasted veg (obviously, have bird in pan, why not chuck in a few)
    • Mashed Garlic Cauli
    • Ambrosia Mash (white potato nephew requested)
    • Maybe Potato Bacon Roses (Cavecub request)
    • Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta and Chestnuts (AWESOME, family fav now, another Ramsay recipe, vid to follow if interested) Oh….I don't add the chestnuts….can't stand them!
    • Green Bean Casserole (thanks Vampriella!)
    • Tarragon Buttered Baby Carrots
    • Grilled Endive (maybe)
    • Desserts…..Various baked treats already made and in the freezer…ANNNNND…….

    PALEO FIGGY PUDDING!!! *singing* Cause' they won't go until they get some, and I want them to go! :))))))))

    Have your menu worked out yet? Would love if y'all posted……..I'm still looking to add or replace side dishes…….all recommendations very much appreciated!

    Vids as promised:

    Whewwwwwww, that was a long one even for me eh? Meh....you'll get over it......or skip over it :)))))))))))


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  • vampeyes
    vampeyes Member Posts: 1,227
    edited December 2018

    Egads - Thanks for the great tune, chair rockin while I eat my lunch and type this up. Have to say your guests are going to be so spoiled with all those yummy meals. I wouldn't buy bread for them, it's not needed, it will just fill them up and then they won't eat your delicious meal....hummm unless you want leftovers then definitely buy the bread. ;) Maybe give the bread and some water to that awful bil of yours. lol That green bean casserole has become a staple in this house now, it's a favourite, so delicious and so easy to make. I am intrigued by the goose and will be keeping an eye out to try cooking one up.

    Now off to finish the rolls, make dinner and get the kids to basketball.

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  • InnaB2018
    InnaB2018 Member Posts: 1,276
    edited December 2018

    Turned out what I thought was cording is a mint lymphedema. Damn it! Wearing a sleeve now and contemplating a visit to yet another physical therapist. Mine is not certified to deal with it. Will this ever end

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  • JunieB
    JunieB Member Posts: 1,023
    edited December 2018

    Good afternoon All,

    Sorry I haven't checked back in sooner. Tuesday ended up being a 12 hour day between the 2 appts. and travel time. I barely kept my eyes open until 8 pm.m that night.

    The ortho appt. went far better that I'd expected. The doctor said that while I do have fluid in my elbow joint, since I don't have a fever, swelling (other than the lymph edema) or redness, he believes that it is probably arthritis. Plus with the lymph edema the risk of infection is too great to be sticking needles into the joint for an needle aspiration biopsy. So basically we are waiting and watching. Yeah, NO NEEDLES!!!! Also, since there doesn't seem to be an infection in the joint I have started the new oral chemo drug (Kisqali). Today is day 3 for me and the nausea has really caught me by surprise. I never had this issue with the Ibrance. Thankfully I have meds for the nausea.

    Monday will be my 59th birthday and today after I am done posting here I am taking Kirby & I to the movies to see the newest Fantastic Beasts movie. It's been out since Nov. 16th, so I need to go before it leaves the theaters.

    Pebbles - Oh my gosh! Your Pups are so adorable. Shhh, don't tell my Kirby!

    Vamps - I only see Palliative Care every other month and it is about "quality of life issues", not "end of life issues". Early on after my DX the local hospital had a presentation explaining the difference between Palliative & Hospice Care. Palliative Care has access to resources for PT, Counseling, pain control. etc. to help a patient gain the best quality of life while dealing with a chronic medical condition (i.e., cancer or other conditions).

    I haven't touched my sewing or knitting in a very long time. I want to (sort of), but don't have the motivation to start them back up. My palliative care provider told me this week that now is the time for me to take a good look at what/who I spend my time on/with and why, in order to focus on that which brings me the most joy and quality of life. I am normally baking for the holiday's this time of December, but I have recently been asking myself "Why" have I been doing this. It is more difficult for me to stand in the kitchen to cook just for myself and I cannot imagine standing there for 10-12 hours baking simply because there are people who I think expect it. I have to be aware of my motivation for wanting or doing the things I've done in the past. Will it bring joy to me as well as to the other people/person? Why? We only get so many days in this life and we need to spend them wisely.

    Stella & Hoover are so adorable too!

    All - Back on Thanksgiving I met a lady who goes to the same oncology office I do and she told me that there is a breast cancer group that meets monthly in a local womans home and they are having a potluck this next Wednesday. I explained that four years ago I had gone to one at the hospital that had women who had only been or were dealing with their first time thru BC treatment, but none that had metastatic disease. They were all of the mind "i am gonna kick this cancer in the A _ _!" and I certainly didn't want to rain on their parade, so to speak. Having metastatic cancer is a way different animal and until you're walking that road a patient doesn't understand. So I stopped going to that one.

    Anyway, this group apparently has several women who also have metastatic BC and I am going to go check it out. So I plan on taking a Chicken, Bacon and Spinach Quiche.

    Okay, I need to get out of my jammies and put my sweats on and head out to the bus to go to the movie. Have a great rest of the day everyone.


    Related image



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  • Pi-Xi
    Pi-Xi Member Posts: 348
    edited December 2018

    Pebbles and vampeyes, you'd think it would be awesome! I'm only comfortable within about a five pound range, but this time my body fat is just so low. My secret? Good eating and daily exercise perhaps and hopefully no active disease is causing it! I'll see how things go over the next month before I freak out completely.


    Thanks for the support, Egads! I wish I knew. Let's blame the tamoxifen!
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  • vampeyes
    vampeyes Member Posts: 1,227
    edited December 2018

    Junie - How was the movie? The boys and I just watched the first one a couple weeks ago and loved it! DS2 has become quite the Harry Potter fan, reading the books, wanting the Lego Sets. Your palliative care provider sounds like my therapist! She tells me the same thing almost every visit, between her and Egads I am slowly learning to put me first and do the things I enjoy. Thankfully DH is a good provider and I can take the time to heal, figure out things and just enjoy the moment without worrying about financial issues. I haven't sewn since that class and that wasn't even sewing lol. I do enjoy the art aspect of quilting, the designing and piecing together, more than the sewing part. The animals are adorable when they are sleeping aren't they! hahaha Just like kids! My memory is terrible so I am going to wish you a very Happy Birthday right now! Your quiche sounds delicious, I am sure they will enjoy it very much. xxx


    Pixi - ever read the book or watched the Steven King Movie Thinner? Your right losing can be scary if you are not trying. Sending positive vibes your way that you will stop losing and everything is all good! xxx

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  • JunieB
    JunieB Member Posts: 1,023
    edited December 2018

    Vamps - The movie was great. It had a surprise ending which leads to the need for a 3rd installment. There are some areas you really need to pay attention to because they are a bit confusing. But all in all I enjoyed it.


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  • TwoHobbies
    TwoHobbies Member Posts: 2,118
    edited December 2018

    Junie I do a lot less at Christmas than I used to. Out went Christmas cards, out went baking, out went outdoor decorating. In general, I do less “obligations" throughout the year. I havent seen any of the fantastic beasts yet. I will have to put it on my list.

    Inna sorry it is lymphadema. DARN

    Vamp enjoy some time off and maybe those baking and crafting loves can be your next career.

    Egads the menu sound delicious. It is making me hungry. For my family, we always have to add a fruit salad. I loved Rockband BTW. Wish I still had it.

    Love all the pictures of everyone's pets. Here is my trouble maker. image

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  • Egads007
    Egads007 Member Posts: 1,603
    edited December 2018

    HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO OUR AWESOME CAVE CHICK JUNIEBEE!!!!!!!

    image

    We're jumping for joy on your special day...…image…..and all love you because.....imageMake sure you get ALL the cake!!!...…..imageHugs...……..image
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  • Egads007
    Egads007 Member Posts: 1,603
    edited December 2018

    image

    Happy Vegas Monday Cave Kids!!

    My big 'confession' for Vegas Monday doesn't include non-compliant foods……just a sketchy eating pattern over the weekend. I found the time to make a hearty beef stew yesterday….pretty tasty, and tons left over to freeze for busy holiday nights when we want to snag a quick meal. Most of the weekend saw us hunting and gathering from the fridge…..probably didn't hit proper nutrition levels…..and why I feel a wee bit dragged out today, meh I'll get over it ;)

    Onwards, upwards…..and on to business….

    Vampriella – The tweaked green bean casserole is going on the table tonight…..I'll let you know how it turns out minus the dairy….bet it's not as good as yours! So babydoll, did you get dishpan hands over the weekend? ;)

    Inna (godda davida) – Hugs……I'm really sorry to read about the LE…..what a pain (literally)! Once you get yourself to a qualified LE specialist I'm sure you'll see a huge improvement. I get a touch of truncal LE when I push it too far at the gym (peanuts compared to yours), and I know the ache, not fun! Keep us posted on your progress. Does it ever end? I asked the same question so many times in the beginning….felt like I was falling apart. Shortly after completing treatment I had major gyno & colon issues that took a few years and a few procedures to pull through. I honestly think it was fall out from surgery, chemo, rads & meds. As the years went on (and paleo adapted) it did get better. My body just took a while to recover. Hang in there, it does get better!!

    Juniebee – YAY on the elbow & no needles!! About time you were cut a small break!! Hopefully the nausea subsides soon….keep the meds close. So happy to see the Kirbster and yourself get out to the movies and enjoy yourself…..as well as joining the new support group….so important. Please let us know how that goes for you…..hoping you meet and make new friends….I'm sure they're going to love you, you're such a great support to all us here!! Again, Happy Birthday darlin'…..live it up today!!

    Pixi(dust) – Tamoxifen does have a weight loss SE so that is a possibility. Your body might also be reaching toward your homeostatic level because of the healthy eating & exercise. I probably don't even have to tell a smart cookie like yourself about upping the calories, but thought I'd chip in with……snack on small handfuls of nuts (or healthy trail mix) throughout the day…..great way to get a big whack of calories (can add an extra meal worth)…..or a daily spoonful or three of coconut oil (delish). Please keep us posted on how you're doing….we're here for you. Eat your way through Christmas :))))

    TwoH – I still have my son's Rockband set packed away…..maybe I'll serenade the family with 'Mississippi Queen' during Christmas dinner :))))))) The BIL would just LOVE that :)))))) The man seriously is such a donkey! How have you been feeling? Full recovery yet? I've also been meaning to ask if you had any luck on a career switch yet?…..I remember you writing about your job sapping your energy. Love the pooch….he's a cutie!! I seriously need to get a dog….everyone in the Cave Community has one but me, perhaps in the new year :))

    Soooooooo, My Cavedude & I were weekend busy bees putting the finishing touches on Cave Christmas décor…..specifically the tree. It was a ROUGH one this year because of the upside down tree caper, and there was plenty of this happening…..

    image

    and...…..

    image

    but it's done…..

    image

    Not perfect, but we love it. I can't wait to see the look on my staunchly conservative BIL's face when he gets a gander at it…..will be worth all our efforts :)))))) My Cavecub took one look and said "oh cool!...What's for dinner" *eye roll* I can always count on the kiddo to get right to the point! :)))

    Next Year's tree...…………….

    image

    :))))))))))

    As always……have a splendiferous day Chickies!!!!

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  • vampeyes
    vampeyes Member Posts: 1,227
    edited December 2018

    Egads - Love, LOve, LOVe, LOVE the tree!!!!! That charlie brown christmas tree is the best!

    Well... I stupidly cleaned my floors on Saturday so I was in some major pain, 2 Tylenol arthritis and a few hours later two Robax Platinum to take the edge off. Oops. Although being in this much pain got me out of cleanup, of course no one bothered to help Aunt D or L do the clean up.

    My bil and his family are arseholes and I will tell you they have:

    image

    His common law speaks to know one but her kids, she asked me why I was so quiet - I really wanted to say, "biotch please because you ignore me all year except for the 4 times a year at family get togethers!" I didn't I was good and just said it was because of the pain I was in. Her 21 year old daughter talks to know one but there little family, after dinner a few of us were at the table talking and the ignorant kid puts her phone up loud playing something. It's hard enough to hear a conversation without the added cell phone youtube video added in at an extremely high volume. My bil and his thing just sat there, didn't say anything to her. WTF??? I was so angry and wanted to say something to her but instead I loudy said something to DH, doubt she heard. Her boys do a bit of socializing. I don't understand why they bother to come if they are not going to talk to anyone but each other???

    image

    Don't even get me started on the tights!!!! My God, if you are going to wear them cover the cracks! I don't need to see:

    image

    or:

    image

    Ok there is my 10 minute biotch on the first Christmas dinner, the next one I have to have with them is on December 26. God grant me the strength to keep my mouth shut. hahahahahaha. Thankfully my mil will say something with no remorse to them.

    Junie - HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!

    Inna - I was lucky not to get the LE. Now I had my lymphs fill up with fluid and that caused major pain, nothing fixed it, doctor would drain it and it would come back the very next day just as bad. A friend made me up a spray with Immortal Blend Essential Oil from DoTerra and WOW! I haven't had a problem since. Not sure if you are into EO's or willing to try it out, but I had relief within a day.

    TwoHobbies - what a cutie!

    Have a great night everybody.

    xxx

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  • vampeyes
    vampeyes Member Posts: 1,227
    edited December 2018

    Egads is this you while talking to me, because I kinda feel like you should be. lol

    aimage

    image

    image

    image

    Keep in mind my mind jumps all over the place and is afraid if it doesn't get out what it needs to say it will likely forget.


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  • PebblesV
    PebblesV Member Posts: 658
    edited December 2018

    Hi Paleo Pals! Just a quick update to say HAPPY BIRTHDAY JUNIE and WOW LOOK AT THAT UPSIDE DOWN TREE EGADS (seriously I'm impressed!) and TWOHOBBIES YOUR TROUBLEMAKER IS A CUTIE and VAMPEYES LOLOL and PI-XI IT'S PROB THE TAMOXIFEN, HOPING TOO and INNAB I HEARD THEY DO LYMPHATIC MASSAGES MAYBE THAT CAN HELP? and WAVES TO ALL.

    I have a couple questions...

    - I'm due to start tamoxifen soon. I'm totally OK if there's a weight loss side effect. However I'm more worried about other side effects, like chance of uterine cancer or worse eyesight and whether tamoxifen actually compromises or helps the immune system. Reassurances? Personal experiences?

    - I made an awesome ground turkey meal today with cauliflower and bell peppers and turmeric. It's full of cancer fighting goodness but every time I eat meat I keep thinking of all the people saying a plant based vegan diet is the thing. So paleo pals, more reassurances that keeping up with the yummy meat is the right way to go? I do know omega 3's with fish should help me avoid the blood clot side effect of tamoxifen so there's that. But any other info that can help reassure me on this path would be greatly appreciated!

    Today's update - I'm 29 out of 30 radiation sessions done and actually doing fine! Got a blister but skin is more just tanned other than that. And thanks to bringing this little one with me to treatments I do not feel any fatigue - I mean how can you with this little furball keeping you company on the long drive?

    image

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  • TwoHobbies
    TwoHobbies Member Posts: 2,118
    edited December 2018

    LOL you paint a vivid picture of your Christmas with relatives, Egads. Love your Christmas tree. I cleaned 4 weeks of dust and decorated yesterday and had to take two aspirin for my aching feet by evening.

    Rockband - I play piano in real life and always wished I could play guitar and sing but surprisingly I loved the drums the best on Rockband.

    Junie I am not sure I caught which day is your birthday but Happy Birthday. Oh hell, happy Birthmonth. Why not celebrate all month.

    Egads I have updated the resume and interviewed for the first time in 19 years. Hopefully something will come up. I am more convinced the stress is not worth it and may have contributed to me getting so sick. Had labs at the docto Friday and still wonky and have elevated WBC but improving.



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  • JKL2017
    JKL2017 Member Posts: 437
    edited December 2018

    Junie, Happy Birthday! Did you & the adorable Kirby have a great day? The second Fantastic Beasts is on my list of movies to see with my DGD11 over Xmas break. Glad to hear it's good. Crossing my fingers that all goes well for you on Kisqali & that it keeps the beast at bay for a long time. Your new BC group sounds promising; at the very least they are going to love you for bringing that excellent quiche! (And please let us know if you get to meet your “new" sister.)

    It's clear that paleo dogs are the best! Pebbles, Domino is a cutie (& so is Tucker)! And if you are only 10-15 pounds from your goal weight, you are doing great! Stick with us & Egads will see that you get there! Glad to hear that you're handling rads well. And yea - you're almost done!!!

    OMG, TwoH, you are almost at your HS weight? I am in awe! Sorry you've been sick but sounds like you're feeling better if you're eating Mexican food! Your pup is another paleo cutie! Good luck with your job search - here's hoping you find something new & interesting that provides you with satisfaction instead of stress!

    Pi-Xi, as usual your food pics are amazing. Sorry about your weight loss. You need to start doing some paleo baking to put some of your lost pounds back on. There are some really good paleo cookies & brownies - can we tempt you to have a few?

    KSuze, 19 pound loss? Way to go! But 2/3 of a cupcake? Seriously? Who stops at 2/3 of a cupcake? You are a lot more disciplined that I am!

    Vamp, your fur babies are very sweet & seem to be such buddies. I'm celebrating your new life with you! I'm betting you find lots of fun things to do with your time. Like finishing that quilt (that apple is gorgeous!). You are doing a great job with your paleo cooking - maybe your next career will be as a caterer or chef! BTW, how does essential oil work? I have a seroma that has been repeatedly drained but keeps refilling. I wonder it your magic elixir would help reduce it?

    Inna, sorry about your LE. I had a single episode a few months after completing rads but seem to have reversed it (knock on wood!) thanks to luck & lots of advice from my LEPT. Have you looked into MLD massage? I have one every month & it really keeps the lymph moving. (As a bonus, I've only had a single cold (& I think it was more likely allergies) in the 18 months I've been getting the massages.) I have also heard wonderful things about the IRestore - I bet you'll have great success with it!

    Egads, your Christmas menu sounds super! The upside down tree ... I'm not so sure about that. However, if it will get under your BIL's skin, that's reason enough to do it! The photo of it is lovely, though. Are you going to pile all of your gifts “under" it? We are HUGE Rockband fans! It's a New Year's Eve tradition when we're all together to haul out the instruments & embarrass ourselves & each other. (We've even taken everything with us to Hilton Head when we spent Christmas at the beach!)

    I haven't said this lately, Egads, but thanks so much for all the information you provide here. You keep me motivated & moving in the right direction (something my DH has always thought impossible) & for that I thank you. And that you do it with humor (& funny gifs!) is a bonus! I have been trying to throw something new from your weekly exercise tutorials into my regular workouts, just to mix things up. (Last week it was the dreaded squats & lunges.) You make my gym time interesting!

    I'm looking forward to a long, sweaty workout tomorrow - I won't be responsible for Ryan crying!

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  • vampeyes
    vampeyes Member Posts: 1,227
    edited December 2018

    Peblbes - Last day yay!!! My last day was emotional, I really liked my radiation team. A little Ryan and Neil to cheer you on.... As for Paleo I am certain Egads will weigh in on that soon.

    image

    image

    TwoHobbies - Good luck with the job interviews!!! DS2 plays piano and DS1 plays guitar, they are still in the learning process, watching them it seems guitar is quite a bit more difficult to learn....never too late to learn. :)

    JKL - My friend is going to send me the recipe tonight, do you have a place in town that may be able to make it up for you so you don't have to purchase all the oils? I have not had an issue with my seroma since I used that stuff, it was amazing how well it worked! I believe it was called Peri Spray - women use it after child birth, but it works on other things as well. Once I get the recipe I will post it here or send you a PM.

    ksuze - I must have missed that you ate 2/3 of a cupcake? How DOES one stop at 2/3?? You must have superpower willpower! How is the grading going? Almost unburied?

    Junnie - Hope you had a wonderful day yesterday.

    Inna and JKL - I was told that jumping on a trampoline helps with the swelling? Maybe something to look into or ask the PT?

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  • Egads007
    Egads007 Member Posts: 1,603
    edited December 2018

    Good Morning Cave Chicks!!

    ……and a fine Tuesday morn it is! Sun is shining brilliantly (finally) and it's that kind of frosty dry cold that I love….puts me in mind of my home province, makes me a tad homesick. Today goose hunting is on my agenda. I'm starting to get a wee bit nervous that I won't be able to procure one in time for Christmas….usually in the stores by now….plan B is duck. As an insurance policy I bought 2 last week. Just as juicy as goose and will do in a pinch. Should have bought 3 and named them Huey, Dewey n' Louie :))))

    Ok, so a lot to respond to so on to business…….

    Vampriella – I have a suggestion on how to deal with your family this Christmas season…..buy the BIGGEST water gun you can find and go in packing….first sign of rude behaviour and let fly with it!!

    image

    How in the heck did you get pics of me in tights??? :))))))) I LOL'd (actually cracked up) at your pics, I've seen and experienced the same problem myself in the gym until I found the answer…..if anyone has the common problem of tights causing 'camel toe' do this…..

    image

    Problem solved…no 'bits' showing.

    Unless of course you want to use the 'camel toe' look as a fashion statement……there is a solution for that too…..

    image

    Makes you scratch your head as to why eh? :)))))(these undies were actually developed for peeps that partake in cross dressing, rather ingenious….to each their own!)

    Vamp your 'interupt' pics also cracked me up….BECAUSE I THINK I DO THAT TO YOU!!! :)))))) Good lord woman, we must sound like a pair of cackling chickens on the phone!! All good, no worries, I honestly think I'm the worst offender!! ;)

    TwoH – Do I ever hear you on the sore feet thing!!…..my dogs have been aching big time because of all the standing in one place I've been doing during Christmas prep….methinks we need foot rubs….like now ;)) LOL@ birthmonth….now THAT is genious!!! Should include a gift everyday too ;) Well look at you go….already interviewed…GOOD FOR YOU!!! Stress is a killer (my MO said she's seen peeps be taken down by it) and there ain't no job worth swimming in it! Sending you winning vibes in your job search, I bet you'll find something very soon. Please keep us posted on your search…we'll be with you during every interview! Sorry aboutthe wonky blood, but good to see the WBC improving.I think Tamoxifen plays with our numbers….I'm not looking forward to the raised cholesterol levels I may get after my AI switch…..we'll see.

    JKL – Thank you so much for your kind words!! It's wonderful to know that some of my posts have been helpful….especially the workout series!!! Squats and lunges…..awesome to read you're adding them (lOOK AT YOU GO!!)…so important……so OUCH :)))) I bet you'll have mastered them by the new year…..Ryan will be wearing a big ol' grin because of you! As for the tree….the pic doesn't do it justice (iphone takes horrible pics), but yes, presents get piled up under. I have so much more room to move than the conventional tree position. Interesting to know that the new upside down trend dates back as far as the 7th century….very eastern European, and started with St. Boniface….the tree's position represented the Trinity….or so the story goes. Apparently Queen Victoria and Albert hung the tree upside down in private residence…Bertie's Bavarian influence. Check out this medieval ink plate……

    image

    So, how excited is your DGD getting about Christmas? If you're up to it I found a wonderful link to making a PALEO GINGERBREAD HOUSE with the kiddies…..check this out:http://fedandfit.com/paleo-gingerbread-house/ Oh, and Christmas at Hilton Head……OMG gotta love that place, have only been once but intend to return one day…..lucky you that you spent Christmas there!! Rockband to boot….so much fun!!!:))

    Pebbles (Flintstone) – I'm assuming your last rad is today….YAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You've come through it like a trooper, CONGRATS!!!Don't worry if your skin gets progressively sore and red over then next week (like sunburn) or that you seem to have a tan in the rad area…..it fades over time. Be sure to sunscreen any of the exposed skin to ward off any further damage.To answer your questions…..

    • Meat – I'll be sending you a rather long PM (what else is new I yap a lot :))) However, it covers the meat issue. You can read at your leisure, but please do read it. The evils of red meat (or just meat) aren't all that peeps or the media present….lots of considerations.If anyone wants to review, flip back to page 25 and see my meat post. The short of it…..buy the best you can afford….organic/hormone/antibiotic free. Grass fed is king. If buying 'regular' meat, keep it to a dull roar.
    • Tamoxifen – This is a touchy subject and I may take it on the head, but this is my opinion and I'm sticking to it……you are probably well aware that Tamox can lead to some pretty debilitating SEs for SOME peeps. Some folks go so far as to be intolerant of the med.When you read the horrific stories on the BCO threads it naturally strikes fear into your heart…no wonder. You are so new to this and it must seem overwhelming! Know that it's not so complicated and PLEASE remember that you are reading the very WORST of the WORST. You may breeze through without a problem, or you may experience the hot flashes, leg cramps and spasms ….you may get sore feet. You may find it hard to lose weight. Everyone experiences different things! I think the worst thing you can do is walk into this with the idea that awful things will happen….the power of the mind is strong…keep a positive attitude and give it a chance. Getting blood clots and uterine cancer are RARE SEs!! Have a vaginal ultrasound done to get a baseline on thickness and keep a watchful eye if you're worried.

    Gauge your reaction and give the SEs time to wear off!! I have seen posts that suggest cutting pills in half or self medication of herbal remedies that could be outright dangerous….this drives me insane. Fish oil, good yes, but take more than a teaspoon a day and you could cause coronary issues…even heart attack over time.

    Your best source of vitamins and minerals is through food. The only recommendation I give is for Vitamin D, C, Calcium & Magnesium (all MO approved, all peed out if taken in excess). Research before taking any supplement and make sure to CHECK WITH YOUR MO before using!!! Throwing pills & potions down your throat willy nilly just because someone wrote that it helped them is a dangerous game!!! I repeat CHECK WITH YOUR MO!!

    My Tamoxifen SEs

    Couldn't lose weight (even went vegan, nada) – Estrogen is king and helps fat break from cells….anti hormonals deplete estrogen levels = cells hanging on to fat. Exercised like crazy, ate low cal, vegetarian, vegan etc....lost VERY little weight, regained constantly

    Cure: Paleo….63 lbs lighter today.

    Leg and foot spasms (think pretzel feet)

    Cure: Strength training, specifically squats and lunges…..obliterated problem. NEVER get them (unless I take a break from the gym….then they return)

    Uterine thickening & polyps – Got bleeding (I'm post menopausal) after 5 weeks, had many pre-existing polyps that tamoxifen 'blew up' uterus measured 17 (yikes!)

    Treatment: D&C….all polyps benign, yearly vaginal ultrasound, lining remains steady at 4 for the last 4 years. The 'dry cleaning' seemed to work :)))

    Hot Flashes…..tons

    Cure? Began exercise regime and were cut in half. Over the last 3 years they've decreased to 2-3 a day.

    I think the most important thing is to go in open minded and don't let bad experiences 'talk you into' fear of a med that may just save your life…..again, the power of the mind is strong, go in positive and deal with SEs as they come.My heart goes out to those that suffer and have no luck with any work arounds. Personally, I avoid certain threads…….I find the negativity/horror stories get into my head space…..and possibly might convince me I'm getting or going to get an SE that really is a figment of my imagination. I find it best to listen to my body and react accordingly……and not anticipate trouble.

    I'm crossing fingers and toes that your experience is a breeze Pebbles….if not we're here to listen and help. Chin up, don't be afraid, wait and see :)

    …..and with that I guess I've covered Two Cent Tuesday :))))) ……hoping all the Cave Chicks have a splendiferous day!!

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  • InnaB2018
    InnaB2018 Member Posts: 1,276
    edited December 2018

    Hi, guys!

    Junie, Happy Belated Birthday!

    Egads, love your tree! Although we are Jewish, we still decorate a tree for the New Year. It’s a drawback to our USSR life, and in Russian it’s not called Christmas tree anyway. When my daughter was little she asked me why we have it right next to a Menorah, and I told her it’s a Hanukkah bush. Apparently she took it at a face value and up until high school thought that it was a legitimate thing. When she was in 11 grade she came home one day and complained that all her Jewish friends are ignorant because they don’t know what a Hanukkah bush is. We hadn’t a great laugh that day. I call it a non-denominational tree if anyone asks. Last year I even bought a Buddha ornament to prove it. I’ll put up a pic once we decorate it.

    Pebbles, congrats on finishing the rads!

    JKL, Vamp, TwoHobbies and Pixie, you guys are awesome!

    Called yesterday to schedule an appt with an LE specialist. Get that: the first available one is on Dec. 26, and that’s for evaluation only, no treatment. Treatment will be on 31. Oh, well, still have PT for cording, which hopefully help with LE in the meantime, and acupuncture. Started Anastroloze yesterday. Saw a friend who was on it for five years, who said that she had a lot of aches and pains while she was taking it and that her sex Life was completely destroyed by it. Oh, joy, something to look forward to..

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  • PebblesV
    PebblesV Member Posts: 658
    edited December 2018

    Thank you everyone for the congrats!! I finished rads today, hurrah! I can't believe I don't need to drive anywhere tomorrow (working from home right now, back in the office next week). Going to enjoy the rest of this week!

    Also wanted to say I am SO SO THANKFUL FOR THIS THREAD! We are all going through different things yet everyone here has such a good (and often humorous) outlook and it makes me feel we can all fight and conquer this. And EGADS super super extra bonus thanks to you for the detailed posts and starting this and all the amazing info. I feel like this is the thread I'll stay with after treatment, to keep the balance and nutrition and positive outlook going.

    Oh minor note when I mentioned omega 3s with fish that was intended to be from eating fish (which I love!) and not from supplements. I don’t take anything now and want to do this all through nutrition if I can. If and when I start tamoxifen, I want to know how to manage naturally (def going to exercise and do weights!). I do not want to have to take a pill to manage a pill if I can avoid it

    More later this week when I have a chance to respond to everyone individually (and the awesome and encouraging info you posted Egads - really helps reassure me on the whole tamoxifen thing, and our choice of the paleo diet!).

    For now here is Domino well deserving of her treat since she's come with me to every treatment, and the beginning of our right-side up tree. Hugs and healing to all!

    Domino the paleo pup:

    image

    Getting in the holiday spirit even though we are Buddhist (Inna love your story too!):

    image

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  • ksusan
    ksusan Member Posts: 4,505
    edited December 2018

    Congratulations, Pebbles!

    I'm now in edits on a manuscript. Work has had some complications that we're working out. I'll be back online more in around a week.

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  • Egads007
    Egads007 Member Posts: 1,603
    edited December 2018

    Morning Cavies!!!

    Going to be posting tons today (ha!) so right on to business...…

    Inna (godda davida) - OMG.....my mother used to put up a "Hanukkah bush" in our front hallway.....which was just dried sticks with white lights...no idea where she got this tradition, especially since she was Catholic :))))) I CANNOT WAIT to tell her there isn't such a thing! LOVED your story and can't wait to see your Buddha. I have a Buddha too and never thought of decorating him.....until now ;) Glad you have the PT appointment and sure you're going to see a diff. I start Femara Jan 1 so we can be AI buddies :)Destroyed sex life.....oh there are ways around that and I'll be posting a tutorial on 'sex and anti-hormonals' soon. You may have breathing space....tamoxifen didn't hit my 'nether regions' for a few years into it. Aches and pains.....seems to be part and parcel of AIs....around 50% get it....crossing fingers neither of us do....but we'll work on it like Cave Chicks do, together :)) Post that Buddha pic when you can....really looking forward to it!

    Pebbles (Flinstone) - YAYYYYYY!!! You're done rads!! Atta' girl!!! So good when it's done eh? Shucks darlin, thank you for the kind words!!.....and so happy to see you like the thread, we're a pretty cool lil' community ain't we? It's what I love about the thread....it's so very 'us'...you fit right in, so cheery, fun and supportive :)) AWESOME you're getting fish oils through eating.....the best way!! I still haven't forgotten to PM you the meat info....just wading through getting posts in (already late for yesterday), and today's workout post, getting the house ship shape as my MIL is over for dinner tonight, Christmas stuff, oy vey....never ends!!:))) Your Domino is SO sweet....love the pics of him....that better be a Paleo chewie I see LOL!! Also LOVE your tree...it's gorgeous!! If I had to pick a religion I've often thought it would be Buddhism (I'm atheist)….a very cool religion and am impressed by the mantras.

    KSuze - Howdy sunshine!! Thanks for dropping by, we know you are snowed under....and glad to see the end is near! Hope the complications are unknotting as I type....hugs to you and your lovely wife!!

    Stay tuned kids....and fasten your seatbelts...long & delayed posts coming......I saw those eyeballs roll!! :))))))

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  • Egads007
    Egads007 Member Posts: 1,603
    edited December 2018

    Yeah, I know, it's Wednesday butttttttttttt……

    TWO CENT TUESDAY -Baby It's #metoo Outside!

    Earlier this week it was announced that the Christmas Tune 'Baby it's cold outside' was being yanked from Canadian airwaves for having "inappropriate lyrics in the wake of the #MeToo movement". Just in case you're not familiar, I highly recommend you watch this oldie but goodie vid to familiarize yourself….

    (Song starts at 29 second point....if you watch the whole vid you'll see a role reversal....very cute)

    'Baby it's cold outside' was written and recorded waaaaay back in 1944. According to the songwriter's daughter, it was a duet he wrote to perform with his wife at Christmas parties…..it gained in popularity and the rest is history. His daughter also noted that her father would have been furious at the present interpretation of his words

    The lyrics that topped the outcry list are: "Say, what's in this drink?"…..which has #metoo peeps calling the song 'The Date Rape Christmas Carol', because it smells vaguely of date rape drugs. If you listen to the lyrics you'll see that it was the lady herself that suggests "maybe a half glass more". I don't know about you, but if I was being cornered by a thuggish creep trying to 'get a leg on over me' I think the last thing I'd be shouting is "last call for alcohol!!!" I'd be throwing the damned drink in his face…..or at least running for my life glass in hand….no need to waste a good Malbec :))))))

    So let us take a gander at the offending music…..this song was written 74 years ago…….during a COMPLETELY different era and generation, oh and date rape drugs weren't around. Unfortunately this era was steeped in women being held back in careers & education, doomed to a life of drudgery in the form of housework and 99% of the child rearing……along with having to accept inappropriate grabs, gropes, pinched bottoms, wolf whistles and having to 'fend off your date' being a sad but accepted regular event. Thankfully women were already starting a long trek towards liberation long before this….and continues to this day. #metoo has its place and is IMHO an integral part of equality.

    The younger generation may be floored by the lyrics, and rightfully so because of today's standards….standards which are the direct result of the elbow grease past & present generations have put into changing attitudes. No longer are 'slap n' tickle' or condescending/sexual comments acceptable. We've woke up to a great degree and continue to do so.

    Here's the thing for me….considering the times as well as the songwriter's INTENTIONS I think the #metoo outcry is pretty much FARFETCHED…..pushing the limits. Please, someone tell me why Snoop Dog's 'Ain't No Fun (If The Homies Can't Have None)", Dr. Dre's "B*tches Ain't Sh*t" or Taylor Swift's '"Better Than Revenge" aren't under attack? All containing incredibly misogynistic and sexist laden lyrics!!! Instead #metoo has chosen to twist the 74 year old lyrics and songwriter's intentions by a country mile! The dude was trying…..that's what people do when they're sexually attracted. I guess this means that if my Cavedude wraps his lovin' arms around me, whispers sweet nothings in my ear exactly when I'm not game nor ready, that he's attempting rape. Sheesh.

    Christmas carols start playing on the radio and in stores in what…early march?....or feels like it. I hear Jingle Bells or Santa Claus is Coming to Town played a gazillion times by mid December and I feel my sanity slipping. Baby it's Cold Outside is one of the few I still enjoy….please Mr. CRTC, don't yank this tune….it's not attempted rape for cryin' outloud!!! It's simply a catchy little tune about the doings between two peeps that like each other.

    So what say y'all…..is banning the song too far or just right?

    (working the workout post now...bear with me)


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  • PebblesV
    PebblesV Member Posts: 658
    edited December 2018

    Baby It’s Cold Outside is one of my favorite songs and one my husband and I love to do a karaoke duet to! I think #metoo is getting a bit #toomuch banning it. If you try to read too far into everything, you’ll find something wrong with everything.

    My two cents!

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  • Egads007
    Egads007 Member Posts: 1,603
    edited December 2018

    #toomuch……..I love that!!! :)))))

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  • Egads007
    Egads007 Member Posts: 1,603
    edited December 2018

    WORKOUT WEDNESDAY – Hippy Revolution!

    I thought I'd post on one of my absolute favorite strength training moves……The Mighty Hip Thrust….AKA Glute Bridges. It concentrates on the lower body which may be of special interest to those that are worried/suffering upper body LE….as is our darling Inna (godda davida).

    Lookee here at what muscles are used….

    image

    Yup, do enough of these and you'll have the Kardashian's crying….not Ryan :)))))))

    Hip Thrusts are a great move if you can't manage squats and lunges just yet, and this movement could help pave the way. A great 'off squats & lunges today" move as well.

    BIG BENEFIT……after a month of doing these 2-3 times a week (3 sets, 10 reps) you will see a HUGE difference in leg muscle cramps and spasms….along with joint pain. What's not to love???

    PROPER FORM FIRST!!!

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    Long winded vid….but a crucial watch….form first! :)

    So on to the Hip Thrust vids……

    Novice

    Beginner (bodyweight only)

    Intermediate (with weight)

    Advanced (barbell style, total weight is your choice)

    Variantions…….this chick blabs more than me :)))))...skip thru to 2:24 on the vid below...

    Tips

    • Keep your head at the correct angle (see form pic above), this saves you from a stiff neck
    • Keep shoulder blades on the bench (or chair if you're doing a home workout)….readjust shoulders constantly, you may find yourself naturally slipping which puts you out of form.
    • Squeeze those cheeks while lifting!
    • Proceed upwards to a slow-ish count to 4, going fast uses momentum….not your muscles. Drop down count to 2.
    • Enjoy your perky new butt :)))))

    If you need help or accommodated methods please hit me up…..Hip Thrusts can be done MANY different ways!

    Splendiferous day to all!!

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  • JKL2017
    JKL2017 Member Posts: 437
    edited December 2018

    I will only be doing hip thrusts in the privacy of my own home!

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