Yes, weighing things and loggin is a real pain.  Once you learn to estimate what you are eating, you won't have to do it.  But the learning process is really important.  Portion control is one of the biggest issues we have.  Until we get used to a healthier portion size, we have to weigh.  Make a game out of it.  Try to estimate how much a thing weighs and then weigh it.  Once you get to the point where you are usually really close, you don't have to weigh.  Same thing with calories.

Going to the gym is more habit than anything else.  I used to do the same things you do, but I made myself go.  I went to certain classes so I had to be there at a certain time every Tuesday and Thursday.  Now I don't even think about it.  Its a habit.  I just go.

Gym doesn't have to be the only way you get exercise.  Kids love to run around and play.  Play with them.  They will love it.  Take them for walks, bike rides, trips to the park and keep up with them.  It will be good for all of you.

I don't have a food scale so I have to try and convert everything from ounces, cups, tbs., etc. so it really is time consuming! I definitely have to keep up with the kids and we try and get out as much as possible. We live in AZ so we could get caught in a down pour at anytime during this season, so it's harder to go to the park and what not.  What does 2 oz. of meat/cheese look like? How do you estimate without a scale? I really do want to get back on track!

You can buy a scale at the grocery store or any kitchen store.  They are cheap, maybe $10.  It is a worthwhile investment.

As hot as it is in AZ right now, I wouldn't worry about being caught in a downpour, I would be praying for one.  Getting wet is fun.  Maybe you could take the kids to a pool instead?  I know a lot of heavy people are embarrassed about being seen in a swim suit, I am too, but it is great exercise.  I have one friend who does exercise videos with her kids.  You should see them on Pilates balls.  The kids mostly just fall off, but they think it is fun and she gets exercise.  Find what works for you and stick with it.

I don't think you understand the weather here in AZ.  I will most certainly worry about getting caught in a down pour, not to mention that playground equptment in a storm is like standing there with a metal rod saying look at me I'm just waiting for a little jolt! lol.  I do often take my children to the swimming pool at the gym but being that they are so young I don't get much real aerobics out of it. Some days I can go without them and I swim laps. I have a bathing suit I feel comfortable in, just some guys shorts and a suit top. I will try to invest in a food scale but my budget is rather tight. Anyhow, My kids are not the reason I can't make it to the gym it's the lack of motivation that's my problem. I thought that's what this forum topic was about, did I post in the wrong area?

Original Post by nicolewolf:

 I do often take my children to the swimming pool at the gym but being that they are so young I don't get much real aerobics out of it. 

Also If the pool doesn't get evacuated from a lightning storm we get to stay!

No, you didn't post in the wrong area.  My feeling on exercise is that if you enjoy it, you will have an easier time doing it.  I was trying to help you explore ways to make it more enjoyable.  Otherwise, makes schedule and force yourself to stick to it.  After a while, it becomes a habit and it becomes much easier to get going.  And you are right, I forgot about the lightning.  I have visited AZ often, but don't live there.