This is the beginning of our hike (above), and here is the stream where I took my blood-numbing, but mercifully short dip:

Glorious, yes? And probably even more so for those of us who are urban dwellers whose only exposure to “nature” consists of our own rather small yards and public parks. Now, mind you, I just love the White Mountains in summer, but the thought of actually living up there during winter isn’t nearly so appealing. The roads getting to this lovely retreat of ours are narrow and winding, with gravel shoulders that one wouldn’t want to stray onto - even in good weather, because you’d undoubtedly be sent arse over teakettle into the scrub brush. Winter storms tend to interrupt the electrical service, too - and I know I would take well to not having my “Mister Coffee” perked coffee first thing every morning. SO, lovely place, love going there, but could never, ever consider staying up there year round.

I was back at work today - whooohoooo - and encountered the same old, same old, of course. Nothing unusual or unexpected, and the day somehow managed to get itself over with before I became too frustrated and miserable. Looks like I can manage one more day - and then the weekend! YESSS!

I’m feeling hungry for some reason. I was pretty discouraged over those shorts not fitting; you’d think it would’ve been enough to “put me off my feed” so to speak, for a good while, but no - here I am, all finished with supper (stir-fry made with faux-chicken strips, Jamaican jerk marinade, onions, red & green peppers, cubes of sweet potato and fresh brocolli. Served it over brown rice) and I’m still hungry. I’m putting off having my WW ice cream sandwich for as long as I can because I have a feeling it’s not going to satisfy me completely, and my only recourse, really, is to eat it and get myself to bed before I start eating anything else.

Plus, I’m pretty tired and need to be up early. I’ll have my bath in the morning; I’m just plumb worn out tonight. Feel almost like I could close my eyes and fall asleep right here where I’m sitting.

Keep up the good work, y’all - y’know we really ARE doing this weight-loss thing! We need to give ourselves a pat on the back, don’t you think?

((((((((((((((US)))))))))))))))))))))))))

Hugs,

Z