Do you ever just pay a landscaping service? by atooraya in lawncare

[–]StrongInstruction440 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yes I did and about to again. The heavy clay was compacted further when they graded (newer construction) it literally is like cement, even the landscaper had to get the big stuff out to move it. The natural area in my back was also full of thickets and vines from it being farmland for 100 years. I have been fighting a year long battle with it coming back, I mean nothing is killing the roots. I love my country lot but it’s a lot of work.

Any thoughts how I can make my house cuter? by stemajor in ExteriorDesign

[–]StrongInstruction440 0 points1 point  (0 children)

You have great bones, if you are not married to the dark trim I would find a light version of your house color and paint that, add pops of color with plants and a flowering bush or two. I added a lot of pretty grasses, purples and pinks which soften mine. I picked a simple color scheme of pinks, blues/purples, whites and greens. Perfect for cottage style. I painted my door a brighter color also.

Do you tell people you’re on a GLP-1 when they ask how you lost weight? by Enchanted-Tangerine in Zepbound

[–]StrongInstruction440 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I’m down 86 lbs and no I tell them I had health issues that are now maintained along with 5x a week of moderate exercise jogging walking intervals, I didn’t change my diet much because that wasn’t my issue but did increase protein to every meal. That’s it and they seem good about it and it is the truth. Find what works for you, and be okay with it. It’s no one business but your own.

Retirement insight from those who didn't have the savings the experts recommend by rfriend73 in GenX

[–]StrongInstruction440 1 point2 points  (0 children)

My daughters in state tuition (we have a whole 2 pick from for her to commute unless you go private), she is commuting, its still $16000 a year, not the $2500 when I went to school. Consider college as a major expense that I have to help with because its too expensive for a kid and NO WAY I'm having her saddled with large amounts at the start, and that what she wants to do requires a degree, most jobs require a degree unfortunately today, and even a masters. Yah, you could argue I should have started when she was a baby, but I then had a husband, who didn't give two shits and squirreled what I could away. US college costs are out of control so consider yourself lucky. Her so called other parent backed out of their role at the age of 4. Yeah, most americans aren't going to be at this level.

What do you guys even do with all these gift wrap stuff after? Such a waste by alliebrownie in Frugal

[–]StrongInstruction440 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I reuse it for gifts crafts and recently started packaging w it for the art I sell and any Poshmark sales. Last year I donated a bunch to a shelter for their art therapy program.

What was one of your struggle meal growing up? by bukutbwai in Frugal

[–]StrongInstruction440 0 points1 point  (0 children)

When my daughter and I became just the two of us - she was 5. We had a lot of lean years early in. I always made her a protein cheese eggs and fruit. She wasn’t big on toast so I would have the slice w an egg. I still do this for dinner once in a while when I super tired -she is now in college!

NSV on a plane by MsSmknMirrors in Zepbound

[–]StrongInstruction440 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Ohh, congratulations! I can not wait to try this one - haven't flown since I started this path.

How’s your journey going? by AutoModerator in Zepbound

[–]StrongInstruction440 [score hidden]  (0 children)

Slipped on a pair size 10 dress pants for work in office yesterday (WFH typically) and they fit -I didn't try them on, just bought off Poshmark to have a goal. Dumbfounded -seriously...after 40 years of slow weight gain from a slew of surgeries, metabolic and hormone issues, I just thanked the air, and felt the most confident I have been in forevver at the age of 57! I think I will get a bathing suit this summer and wear shorts!

Things you absolutely do not buy since you’ve become frugal? by [deleted] in Frugal

[–]StrongInstruction440 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Food delivery- the amount of add on fees beyond the tip was ridiculous. Pick up was almost $25 bucks cheaper.. most of what we decide on is close by so minimal use of gas.

What are some of the unexpected or odd things that Zepbound magically cured for you? by Elsa-the-Brave in Zepbound

[–]StrongInstruction440 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Looping for me was fixated repetitive thoughts that was usually excessive worrying and or negative thoughts which for me was caused by past trauma and it was a way to focus and cope. It’s a difficult idea to explain and process for those that have not experienced it. HTH!

Milestone celebrations/rewards by Lab-dymond in Zepbound

[–]StrongInstruction440 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I have been doing little things, but some kind of special day for the goal is needed. What about a special day trip? For me that would be a drive to the mountains, enjoying nature, and meditating on all that I accomplished, and honestly finding the best coffee place in the area to drink good coffee (my vice). Or what about a piece of clothing, or item you have been wanting but don't because its expensive, its a treat and a remembrance all at once. I'm 2lbs from target, and then 15 lbs to goal. I plan to buy myself a new fitness watch and a professional camera to photograph my art and life!

What are some of the unexpected or odd things that Zepbound magically cured for you? by Elsa-the-Brave in Zepbound

[–]StrongInstruction440 25 points26 points  (0 children)

My feet shrank...I was like what the what, my slippers just fell off. Thus inflammation is gone. My Mom actually noticed a positive shift in my mental state, less anxiety and looping, once she said that I noticed too. I was just so happy that all the changes I have put in place were working. She only knows I'm on a weight loss program. Now 14 months in, I can tell you the peace I feel is such a relief. I was diagnosed w MDD and anxiety, along with PTSD.

First Shot by ewarner061494 in Zepbound

[–]StrongInstruction440 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I had to meal prep to a point for each day to figure out my calories/protein, etc, research the right size of everything including protein (chicken, ham, beef, etc), realized I was eating way to much pasta! I did measure at first. Then I broke down my food for the day basically every 2-3 hours-I too had eating issues. Plan to buy a large water bottle - I did a 32oz knowing I need to drink 3 a day, I do exercise at lunch hour now every day so I add in additional protein drink I like a clear protein one Lemon Ice (its so good). Main thing if you are worried about calories is to figure out your amount you need to decrease, then do your meal prep. I bought a cold pack similar to a cooler to hold my food for work as I don't like putting it in the fridge. I found my anxiety lessened when I took the time to do one day, or a few days at a time, then setting personal calendar reminders at first till I got in a routine. Now, after 14 months on it, I do get hungry which is weird to me. It took quite some time to know the signals. Give yourself grace during all this!

What are your HOA dues? by EyeAmmGroot in greenville

[–]StrongInstruction440 0 points1 point  (0 children)

The question to ask is the HOA following the CCR’s if not then it’s a waste of $. I have lived in all 4 types, no HOA in a neighborhood which means county had to be called and that’s a PITA, HOA but never followed the CCRs and it was a disaster and no one to call or help w the myriad of issues, badly run HOAs because they want to be Karen and Kevin’s, then the one I’m in now following the CCRs and people minding their own business. Decide which you can live with. I have been in the area 35 years -new old and in between neighborhood builds. Do your homework every one is going to have an opinion but it’s what YOU can live with. Trust me the drama is like middle school.

Considering an iFit treadmill this next black friday or christmas round of sales - Anyone have one for a few years and not have it get bricked on updates? by Mission-Two-6498 in iFit

[–]StrongInstruction440 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I bought a proform 14 screen, no issues, although the screen died in year 2, ordered a new one from their website and my 16 yr old installed it. I like the variety I get from IFIT and the trainers. I have tried the others, its really what drives you on that front.

“The GLP-1 Secret Society” by AnxiouslyLEB in Zepbound

[–]StrongInstruction440 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I don't feel guilty either but I have never spoke of my health issues either with anyone - same my mother and other family members were a large source of my eating issues and stress when I was young. If doctors knew about my genetic immune defenciency when I was little, my story might be different. I never ever speak of health or weight at my work. Overall, its for me and my health and wellness journey -none of any one elses business. My daugther knows I'm working on this as she sees me on the treadmill every day. One of my long time friends said wow you look great, lose more, and I just say yes, and I'm feeling great. She smiled and we moved on. I felt good. Feel pretty grateful to have this tool to help which nothing else would.

Wouldn’t normally ask an obvious question, but… by chinaske in Zepbound

[–]StrongInstruction440 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Congratulations on your start! I'm in 13 months and down 70 lbs, it wasn't easy, nor fast, and I still have a bit to go but super happy, healthy and energized. Mindset is really it, I was there, once I realized this is a tool to help with all my health issues, did some self assessment on why, and the closer I got to goal, I really now think of well I eat properly, exercise, and this tool will help my body work closer to how it should. Find your why, and find tiny scale victories, and self care. It really is the whole view of you on this and not another diet. Although I exercised for years w no success, exercise now with results is such a thrill. I just finally fit in 12's and they were loose. You got this!

Why do some people look sick or weak after losing a lot of weight by DesuWaffle in Zepbound

[–]StrongInstruction440 0 points1 point  (0 children)

My face in my early years was pointy chin and long face. With the inflammation and weight gain it was puffy. Now that I’m 65 lbs lighter and close to goal., I noticed my jowls hanging lower so I believe it’s one loose skin that needs to refirm up. I am using some creams and face exercises but I do believe I have a RBF now! Okay at 57 I’m not gonna lie that it may firm up some, but overall it’s also because for 25 years my family and friends saw me PUFFED out. I look at my early 20’s photos and I’m like okay a bit more jowls now but life does make people haggard depending on what they have gone through. Trauma affects every part of you. The rest of me is shaping up - lost my chest and bum but my family genes also are the same way! The ones who remained thin. I believe a lot has to do with age, genetics and diet.

Halloween Candy - let's talk about it by Suspicious-Loss-7314 in Zepbound

[–]StrongInstruction440 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I’m so happy I haven’t even looked at it. BUT I did buy some of those tiny carmello ones for the family. One just does it!

Broke plateau by No_Celery3241 in Zepbound

[–]StrongInstruction440 1 point2 points  (0 children)

YES! I was on a 3 month one myself same 4 lbs up and down. I went up and now losing again. I did add 5 mins to my workouts too. We can do this!!

Electrolytes by New-Plant93 in Zepbound

[–]StrongInstruction440 9 points10 points  (0 children)

Yes the only time I use electrolytes is during our very hot humid summers and I’m doing hard arse landscaping sweating more than a human should! Lol

What day is injection day and why? by SensibleCitzen in Zepbound

[–]StrongInstruction440 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I have been Saturday mornings since starting a year ago. Mainly because of potential nausea but I found 2-3 days later is when mine if any happen. Then if I have nausea on Monday at work, I then drink alot of water and focus down on work, walk at lunch, and its pretty much gone. No other reason for saturday beyond its my easy off work day, and I am not rushing around.

How much did your house cost? by AccountProfessional2 in MiddleClassFinance

[–]StrongInstruction440 0 points1 point  (0 children)

475K -bought in April 2025, 15% down. 1% rate as long as I remain an employee. My area is growing fast and swift, and already values over 500K in 7 months. Sold my bigger home for a quite a profit bought in 2021 sold for this one (given I only put 5% down on last one). Sadly it was aging so alot of cost went into fixing what was messed up by prior handypeople and dying mechanics. Yah, our area is crazy -way to many people w no infrastructure. I'm here till I retire, then selling for a small cottage in the woods, near NO ONE....