Sugar Shakers - Sugar Busters Weekly Support Board 12/10-12/16

This is the SUGAR BUSTERS WEEKLY SUPPORT BOARD where all of you who are following this WOE, or are thinking about doing so, are welcome to come join in and be a part of our wonderful group.

Other than finding support and friendship on this board, we also try to do something during the the week to add a little difference to our board.

MONDAY-MOTIVIATIONAL MONDAY
TUESDAY-TUESDAYS TIP & CHAT AT 9:15PM EST
WEDNESDAY-WEIGH-IN WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY-THURSDAY RECIPE DAY
FRIDAY-FRIDAY FIT FACTS

Please visit our LATEST BIO BOARD where you can learn more about everyone who is on this board:


http://64.119.161.199/forum/showthread.php?threadid=3773

Please make sure you post your BIO on the LATEST VERSION of our BIO BOARD everyone!!!!


Our DECEMBER 2001 RECIPE BOARD can be located at the link below:


http://64.119.161.199/forum/showthread.php?postid=133441&t=8839#post133441

We have SEVEN INFORMATIVE BOARDS!!!! Please take a few minutes to visit them! New information is continually being posted, so please make sure you visit them often-make sure to visit our newest board, MY FAVORITE SB LEGAL FOODS at the link below:

THE RECOMMENDED READING BOARD:


http://64.119.161.199/forum/showthread.php?threadid=2342

THE TOOLS & TIPS BOARD:


http://64.119.161.199/forum/showthread.php?threadid=2344

THE FOOD INFORMATION BOARD:


http://64.119.161.199/forum/showthread.php?threadid=2365

MOTIVATIONAL & INSPIRING THOUGHTS BOARD


http://64.119.161.199/forum/showthread.php?threadid=2359

and our newest board MY FAVORITE SB LEGAL FOODS


http://64.119.161.199/forum/showthread.php?threadid=5005

We also now have a SB WEEKLY EXERCISE BOARD that you can log your daily/weekly exercises on:


http://64.119.161.199/forum/showthread.php?threadid=11591

WANT TO POST YOUR WEEKLY WEIGH IN INFO?? Go to the WEEKLY WEIGH IN BOARD below to post your stats!


http://64.119.161.199/forum/showthread.php?threadid=11592

VISIT OUR NEW SUGAR BUSTERS 2001 PICTURE GALLERY at the link below. You can upload pictures or post links to pictures on this board:)


http://64.119.161.199/forum/showthread.php?threadid=10759

NEWBIES! (aka new members) If you would like to REPLY to any of our threads, please hit NEW REPLY not NEW THREAD, then type your message in and hit SUBMIT REPLY. If you need to edit your reply, just click on edit located in the body of your post and make changes as you need to, then hit SUBMIT NOW.


WELCOME! :D

GOOD MONDAY MORNING EVERYONE!

Will post my usual morning post sometime later, but wanted to make sure I got our MOTIVATIONAL MONDAY done early in the morning, so here's my contribution for MM:

http://members.aol.com/debelli/monday_morning_thought.jpg

JUST IMAGINE


Imagine how life would be if nothing had the power to get you down. Think of how much you could accomplish if there were no distractions to knock you off track. Consider how effectively you could respond if you were able to see the positive possibilities in every situation, and then to seize on them and bring them about.

Imagine being peaceful, calm and focused, regardless of the turmoil around you. Feel the power that would come from an ability to just accept each moment rather than fight against it. Think of how great it would be to never become annoyed.

What a powerful way to live! What an effective way to work! And it is all possible right here, right now.

Nothing can get you down unless you allow it to do so. Nothing can distract you unless you let it. The positive possibilities are always there for you to see and to manifest into reality. There's no need to become annoyed unless you choose to do so. You have the power to make life great.

Imagine how great it would be to spend each moment with purpose and positive focus. Imagine it. Know it can be yours. And make it happen right now.

-- Ralph Marston
**************
Have a wonderful day and a fabulous week!

Debbie
194/122/129
SB since 3/22/00
Reached goal 6/10/01

Good Monday Morning Again Everyone:wave: Where is everyone this morning???:?: Very unlike the board to not have anyone posting this morning-something going on I haven't heard about???:?

Hope you all had a great weekend:) Just got in from my walk/jog. It's so hot out there, 24th day in a row we've been above average on our temps and it sure seems to be taking a toll on my walk/jog time, seems to zap my energy and get-up-and-go spirit. BUT, at least I went:spin:

Hitting a milestone today-it's been 6 months since I reached my goal weight! I can't believe how time has flown, it just doesn't seem like it's been that long! Scale is still the same for me today-stuck at 122-guess that's better than being stuck-up!

Lit our first candles for Chanukah last night. Spent most of the afternoon wrapping presents, almost got all of them done, but a few left to do. Still have to find a few things to buy, both of the kids "big" presents I haven't gotten yet-hopefully, I'll find them soon. Actually, found them, but hoping to find them at a better price-both have to be ordered from the web. I think the kids were okay with what they got (if not, too darn bad!). Lauren got a make-up case with makeup, brushes, etc. and Michael got a Norelco electric shaver (can't believe the kid is shaving!!!). Eli gave me a GC to GLAMOUR SHOTS!! Can't wait to go-went 6 years ago and loved it, will be happy if it comes out the same this time-he gave one to Lauren as well:spin:

I found this cute Chanukah poem I just had to post:D VIV & MEL will find a laugh with this!!!

Everything in reds and greens!
Trees and wreaths and jellybeans
Santa Clauses, candy canes,
Gracing storefront windowpanes...


But then there are the hapless few,
For whom these colors just won't do.
It would, in fact, be quite a horror
To have them there by the menorah.

Oh where to find the white and blue
Among the reddish-greenish hue?


Walk through the store and to the back
Past tinsel, bows and bric-a-brac...
And there you'll see off by itself,
The tiny, token Hanukah shelf.
**************************


ZANNE, I'm so un-Jewish, but will try to help answer your Chanukah questions. The middle candle, called the Shamus, is the candle you light first and then use to light the other candles. Once they burn down, that's it. Here's a site that probably has more information than you care to know, but more than I could tell you:


http://www.ohr.org.il/special/chanukah/

I'm sure there are better sights, just don't have the time right now to scout them on the web:D I too find religions interesting!!!

GATOR, will e-mail you the e-mail later.

BOB, he said don't worry about it. He still can get you his regular 30% off, instead of the 40%. He doesn't have any of those canisters left-you got 2 of the last ones:)

Gotta get in the shower, morning is almost shot. I'll check in later. Have a great day and a fab. week!

Debbie
194/122/129
SB since 3/22/00
Reached goal 6/10/01

The long lost soul is back! This holiday season is turing into a blur. I am reeling from one event to another and not really enjoying any of them. Part of that is due to the fact that I have come down with a cold and all I really want to do is curl up in bed with a cup of hot tea==but no way!

The worst part is the food. I'm so busy I have no time to prepare--so my eathing has gone all to h**l. Just to give you a clue--I had four events Saturday--beginning at 9:00 am and going until 10:00 that night. I also had three yesterday. It would have been four--but I skipped one so I could come home and take a nap on the couch in order to get through the evening's activities.

I will also have a houseguest for the next four nights--she is nice, but I'm just not in the mood for company. Can you tell who is the Grinch this year?

I haven't even had time to read last week's board. I have been thinking about all of you and hoping that you are doing better than I am!

On the plus side--Miss Belle has been the bright spot this holiday season. I put up my tree last week and she has been busy taking it down ever since. All the dangly things are just too much for her little kitten spirit to resist. I know I should stop her, but i just laugh so hard when she starts to play with the tree. I didn't put any breakable ornaments on it this year--just because I knew there was a kitten in the house!

I hope Deb,Viv, and Mel (and anyone else celebrating) have a wonderful Chanukah!

BOB--oops, I was rooting for your team--I thought sure they'd pull it out in the end! You've got the whole country (well, except for the state of Nebraska) mad at you now for messing up the BCS.

Missy--Congrats--y'all are for real! I'm not sure a SB'er should patticipate in the Sugar Bow though:lol:

Auburn will be at the Peach bowl New Years Eve--against the most hated and evil UNC Tarheels.

Got to go---time for some more vitamin C.

Susan
300/245:mad: /150
July 10, 2001

Yuck - it is so dreary here in N. AL today - rain, clouds, cold, etc. Doesn't do anything for morale either.....

Sorry to report that, I too, like Mel, have wagon tracks across my body today. I haven't eaten legal, but still haven't gone overboard with anything either - scale is only up by 1 lb and today is the 1st day of TOM, so thats not bad. I know that the reason the scale doesn't show it is because of all the walking and shopping I've done this weekend. This only proves to me that if I can just get some regular exercise that it would be much easier to get the scale moving. I can tell you the one thing that I miss the most is pizza - real pizza - fattening pizza!!

I went to that "grief recovery" seminar with my Mom on Saturday -I told her as soon as we got in the car not to ever ask me to go to anything like that again, because I ain't going!! I was more depressed when we left than I have been in weeks!! 8:30 until 4:00 was just too long to be dwelling on what we've lost. There were some interesting things that the speaker said, but nothing that just hit me as being helpful. I think this was more of a pity party, in the name of getting through it. There were people there who had lost parents, spouses, brothers/sisters and children. I felt so sorry for all of them that it made it even worse. If the speaker weren't saying something that applied to me, then I could look across the room and see others who were crying and then I just wanted to cry too! It was sad, the weather was gloomy and I had PMS, so not a good mix!!

I've gotta run for now - Hello to all - will catch up with reading the board later.
tv

EVENING EVERY BUDDY!!!! :D


BOB is in MUCH better spirits today....Can't drag my lip forever.... But....for the life of me, I just can't figure out how MY TEAM can beat GATOR'S TEAM...win the EASTERN DIVISION OF THE SEC, be #2....get beat by MISSY'S TEAM.....and FLA STILL GET A BCS BOWL AND TENNESSEE DOESN"T!!!!!! ???????? CAN SOMEONE EXPLAIN THIS TO ME PLEASE????? SUSAN??? MISSY???? GATOR????

DEB Keep us updated on all the goodies you get...I sure do wish I had had you and your van with me today....
Yesterday on the way to the grocery...there was a leather couch sitting on the sidewalk of a house where someone was moving from...no big deal...just thought they would be back later...came back from the grocery and there was a pickup truck in the driveway...ok I thought....someone is picking it up now...Tonight I come home after doing some shopping and the damn thing is sitting on the CURB!!!....Its a beautiful piece of furniture...creamy beige in color... WHERE IS THE PRINCESS WHEN I NEED HER????

OH...OH....SKEETER has to go out...I'll be back later...

BOB

WOW! I don't think I've seen the board so quiet since I've come here. But, it's a busy time of year.

It's getting a wee bit more chilly outside, but still way above normal temperatures. Only have had to scrape frost from the car the past couple of days. I'm hoping the weather man is right and that it will be warm for the next coupld of days so I can clean my windows outside.

Just finished doing a 1/2 hour on Ellie. Didn't want to but made myself. I've felt sluggish all day. I actually did a couple of "sprints". :D My knee is better--guess I've already built it back up. It used to feel like it would give out on me when I would go up stairs. It got better when I was exercising before, but deteriorated when I stopped. So, there's an added benefit to the exercise!

TV C'mon. You can do this. I tumbled off the wagon too, but I'm getting back on track. Still not eating as proper as I should but I'm getting there. I can imagine that the seminar was depressing. You went to give your mom support and that was a good thing. I think you were right in telling her that you won't go to anything like that again. You have to do what's best for you.

Fillise I hope your cold gets better quickly. Sounds like you're really busy. No wonder you're run down. Please take good care of yourself. Sounds like Miss Belle is keeping your spirits up with her antics. My cats aren't even bothered with the tree.

Debelli 6 months at goal!!! WOW!!! That's wonderful! Be very proud of yourself.:smug: I still have to check out the link, but thanks for answering my question. I liked the peom. I guess living in a neighborhood with a lot of Jewish people, our local party store has several shelves of Chanukah stuff. Very pretty blue and silver wrapping paper. DS wanted a dredal (SP?) but all they had were little toy ones. If they had a nice big wooden one I would have got it.

BOB Glad to hear you're in good spirits today!

Well, I guess that's it. Gonna veg out for an hour in front of the TV.
have a good evening everyone!

Hey girlies!

Had a great day. This morning I when I got on the scale I had lost the B&B (brownies & beer) from the night before!! So, started fresh again today! I actually walked 2 miles last night and again tonight! Last night I made it around the neighborhood - which was nice cause I got to see everyone's yards all lit up. Tonight I just went over to my dad's to walk on the treadmill cause I didn't finish tutoring until 6:45! UGH! So, I walked and watched the Weakest Link. Watching TV makes the walk go by so much faster! I'm just glad I'm walking again!!

DEB: 6 months is fabulous! That must be the best feeling in the world! I hope to one day be in your shoes!

BOB: Here's the answer to your question (hubby had to make the assist here) so here it goes! When TN lost to LSU which was ranked #21 - TN lost to a much lower ranked school which hurt TN in the BCS standing. And - since FLA didn't play a game that weekend - they moved up while TN dropped. There are so many factors involved so there's no clear cut answer - it's in the numbers. That's it! Hubby said they need to get rid of the F^@%#g BCS!!!

GATOR: Thanks for the links - I'm gonna check them out!

FILLISE: Glad to see you back! Hope you feel better soon! I love the comment about the Sugar Bowl!! That was hilarious!! Don't worry - this SBer will be watching from her house so that she doesn't blow it on Bourbon Street!!

Well, I've got to run - tons of school work and it's already 8:30!

See y'all tomorrow!

Missy
284/266/170

All right! 3 days OP without any recurrance of insanity. Even made and served latkes without taking a bite. Rest of family won't hear of changing the recipe and it dowsn't seem worth it to make 2 different batches. Biggest complainer was DH who is NOT Jewish.

TV- come on back up on the wagon with us! You can do it!!! Sorry the seminar was such a downer. I've found (from my meager experience) that large group support activities seem to degrade into, as you so aptly put it, pity-parties. I tried a few times going to support groups for chronic diseases that I have, and boy, by the end of the evening I'd heard how miserable everyone else was and just wanted to crawl into bed and give up for the rest of my life. It was good of you to go with your mother, tho. Sounds like she needed to try that avenue, even if its not your way.

Fillise- Hope you are felling better. Your schedule sounds brutal and it's hard to have all those social/business commitments and be cheerful when you feel like crawling into bed! Love the kitten stories- our first cat was Astro the Flying Cat. As a kitten, she would race around the house at night at head level (my head) from bookcase, to table to sofa, to mantel, and at Christmas, the tree became part of her route. Once. The tree came crashing down with a terrified kitten clinging to the top!:lol:

Bob- I would have dragged that couch all the way home! It would have been good for at least three weight workouts. Sounds like you need a van.

Deb- Thanks for all the Hannukah humor. It provided tonight's merriment at dinner instead of the usual 11yr old boy humor (??? when do they turn into people?)

Hi Zanne- I've never tried an "Ellie". Maybe I'll use the 2 week free gym coupon that came in the mail and try one. I need a change in my workouts.

I'm going to try to post a picture that DD took with my new digi camera. The two dogs wearing the same sweater. If it's not here, I'll have to play with it more tomorrow.
mel

it worked, but its so tiny! How do you all post pictures that fit under their 40KB max and have them visible?

mel

Well, since I posted last night, not much new here. The scale is teetering between 166 and 167, so I'm hoping for the lower for WIW. Been stuck around 168 for soooooooo long. It's about time for a dip. ;)

MEL HOORAY!!! Good for you to be OP. I love the little saying on your posts. "Falling down is not failure.....Failure is staying down" That is just so perfect. We all have to remember that, especially at this time of year. Cute picture of you and puppy. I really love the elliptical. Elliptical is supposed to be easier on the joints than pounding the pavement and the treadmill (I've got a family history of bad joints). We got Ellie in September and I think we've used it more in 3 months than the treadmill we had for 7 years.

FRUIT Good to hear you lost the B&B. I exercise while watching TV too and you're right! The time does pass quickly. Sounds like you're doing great since you came back to post regularly!

Well, looks like I'm all caught up. I've got lots to do today so I'm not sure when I'll get back to check. I'll probably get nosy sometime in the day!:lol:

Have a great day everyone!

Good Tuesday Morning Everyone:wave:

Got in from my walk-no idea of my time-batteries died in my walkman, but I'm sure it wasn't any great new time.

Another night of Chanukah behind us. Michael got his favorite candy-GOBBSTOPPERS along with a shirt that Eli got him that says "DOESN'T PLAY WELL WITH OTHERS". The night before he gave him one that says "OUT OF MY MIND, BACK IN 5 MINUTES"-both are so Michael! Lauren received some new scrapbooking materials, something she has just started to show interest in. We received a beautiful ROSENTHAL CRYSTAL DREIDEL from a cousin of the kids Dad who lives in Cincinnati. She started sending us a dreidel every year for the past 9 years, I think it is, so we have a nice collection now.

I mentioned a few months ago that I was looking into this DERMALIN lotion that suppose to help problem areas. After much searching on the web and e-mailing regular people who had bought it (got some names off sites on the web as well as people who bought it off of Ebay), I decided to take the plunge and buy a bottle, which I got yesterday. The stuff reminds me of really thick molasses, dark brown, gooey and very sticky. Thank goodness is doesn't stink bad. Anyhow, I used it last night on one area, on my stomach, (you can't put it all over), and will see if there's any difference after 10-14 days. I found a thread on the web last night with people using the Dermalin, some along with another product, that were seeing some results. I also found a gal here on the 3FC'S site who P/M me and told me she had some nice results with it. Heck, it's a lot cheaper to try this before thinking of surgery! I'll keep you all posted on what I personally think about this product:D

Scale is down another 1/2lb, but still up 3 from my lowest. Hoping it will continue to move down the next few days-seems that's the usual trend for me when I look back.

Found 2 more high cocoa content chocolate bars to add to my collection. One is CHOCOLOVE 70%, which I knew about but hadn't been able to find, the other is RAPUNZEL 70%, which I bought and then found elsewhere on sale for almost 1/2 the price-Wild Oats has it on sale this week for $1.50 a bar. Haven't tried either-have one bar open now and will just put these in the stock pile I have for a later date.;)

Have a little TUESDAY TIP to share with you. Don't know if anyone has ever done this or not, but if you take a med. sized metal bowl and stick your 2 beaters in it along with a cup of milk and maybe a little flavoring in it, stick it in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes (until it's icing over, but NOT frozen) and then whip it at high speed, you'll get a very filing (due to air) type of "dessert". As I start whipping it I add a little stevia to sweeten it. I just made some with lemon flavoring in it-very yummy! Amazing how milk can just whip up like that! You have to eat it immediately though, otherwise it starts to break down. I found a recipe that if you add gelatin to it, it will whip up and keep like icing for a few days. Will try to post that on Thursday.

Eli's working today:( which is quite a bummer since I don't have to p/u either child at school today and have the day free. I should start planning for this garage sale, but of course, the procrastinator in me wants to wait til Thursday to start. I may just shmize around up in Broward on my own and go shopping-just haven't decided what I'm in the mood to do today.

FILLISE, glad to see your post on the board, as this is a tuff time of year for many, in more ways than one, I worry when people sorta of take a hiatus from the board. Some I know will be back and are just busy, others I know won't be back because they've fallen off the wagon and the face of the earth, it seems. Glad to hear Ms. Belle is enjoying the season and the Xmas tree-seems she anxiously awaiting to find out what will be under there for her:) Try to do your best with staying OP during this time of year, it's hard, but with determination you can do it, or lesses the severity of going over board, just by being aware of what's going into your mouth.

TV, hopefully you'll be back on track after the flood of hormones from TOM subside. Yesterday I was in a total feeding frenzy, nothing I ate would fill my stomach (and remember, I had my stomach stapled years ago and it's still small), I get like this a couple times a month and even though I know it's something that will pass the next day, I still eat so much it's unbelievable-I blame it too on hormones. Sorry to hear the grief seminar didn't go well. Maybe your Mom could benefit from reading George Anderson's book called WE DON'T DIE and WE ARE NOT FORGOTTEN-very good books that really made me a believer-just a thought:)

BOB, heck girl, I'd of grabbed that couch and hoisted on Skeeters back if need be! Wish I'd been able to help you out-you know I would:D

ZANNE, it's been terribly hot here as well. We've had 3 weeks of above-avg. temps here in the South-I'm welcoming any change that comes along with cooler weather! Sounds like you are doing really well with your exercise, keep up the great work!

FRUIT, I'm really proud of you!:D You are really doing so good (despite that B&B downfall). I really want you to succeed and you KNOW you can count on me for continnued support!!!

MEL, good to see you back and going strong! Loved the pic, though it does need to be bigger. Can you retry? Can't see the dog, sorta blends in with the picture:( Have you tried sweet potato latkes yet? I'm going to try and get inspired and make some-let's see how inspired I truly get!:rolleyes:

Well gals, TOMORROW IS WEIGH IN WEDNESDAY! and I do wish you all a lot of luck.

Tonight is chat at 9:15pm est. I don't know if anyone is planning to show, considering the time of year it is and how everyone has more important things on their minds-but I will try to check in the chat room and see if anyone's around.

Have a wonderful day!!!

Debbie
194/121.5/129
SB since 3/22/00
Reached goal 6/10/01

Remember me???

I hadn't planned on being away for so long, but I'm still trying to adjust to this commute and new work out schedule and all. I'm counting down the days till I get to meet DEBBIE AND ELI AND FROG AND MR. FROG AND WHOEVER ELSE DECIDES TO COME TO O-TOWN!!!

BOB I'm soooooooo sad for you!!!!!! I was yelling at the screen and telling those guys what to do, but they just didn't hear me!!! They had me all riled up when they beat GATORGAL'S team - I was sick so I stayed home and Meister went to a party. Turned out it was a good thing I didn't go 'cause everyone there was rooting for GATORGAL'S team.....I would have been on my own if I had gone. :) Ain't it funny how the only people who like BCS are the ones who get to go to bowls when they didn't expect to? They'll be the ones yelling next year about how unfair it is.

GATORGAL No offense. ;) You know any rooting I do is totally offset by Vince. I joined the Gold's Gym which is almost across the street. They were having a special so I plunged in - I need to get back on the routine of working out and doing my weights. It's less than 2 miles from my house so that's good.

DEBBIE, MEL, VIV - HAPPY CHANUKAH!!!!!!! Last year I told Vince we looked Jewish because you can't see our tree from the street and there were no visible Christmas decorations out anywhere at our house. This year I put a red ribbon on the mailbox. I don't think my parents will be able to come down this year and we aren't able to go up, so it looks like it'll be just me and Meister on our own. I'm kinda sad and it makes it hard to get in the mood to shop. I don't know when they'll git their gifts with all the restrictions and precautions on packages this year. Guess I better get my boot-ee in gear.

Well, I've got to get back to work. I'm back to tracking my food in FitDay so I can keep a handle on things while the holidays are here and keep up with my work outs. I've got to get back down to the friendly competition/encouragement level with MARIE!! :D


:wave: HAVE A GREAT DAY!!!

Hello everyone!

My cold is really hanging in there. It is not the worst cold I've eve had, but it doesn't seem to be getting better either. It is probably no coincidence that I let some sugar back into my diet and get the first cold I've had since starting SB.

I skipped last night's event to stay home and drink tea. It was heaven.

Marie--good to hear from you again. I think everyone is swamped. The board is really light this week. I certainly haven't been posting as much as I usuallly do. It sounds like you and Meister have the opportunity to make some traditions of your own this year. I hope you get into the mood and find the joyful spirit!

Deb--I'm looking forward to your recipies. I know a few people who could use a "Doesn't play well with others" T-shirt! Six months below goal is fabulous.

Zanne--I know all about being stuck! Hang in there and the scale will begin moving soon!

Missy--Y'all still must be loving it in LA! Though I hear the Sugar Bowl people are not al all happy that they have a home state crowd--something about you folks not spending enough money. I don't know how anyone can avoid spending money in New Orleans.

BOB--glad to see that you are recovering. I tried--I really tried to help all I could. I think here is something about gator meat. It tastes really good at first--then it kind of sickens you after awhile. It saps all your strength and makes you weak. At least it did Auburn!

TV--I think everyone grieves in their own way and on their own timetable. Give yourself time--the holidays are hard--especially the first Christmas after a loss. I'll be thinking about you.

Time to go make some lunch. I think I have some tuna in the house, yum yum.

Susan

I can't seem to post pictures unless they are tiny. When I attach them in that browse field, the post fails if they are over 40kb. That's a pretty small photo. Obviously a few of you have figured it out! let me in on the secret?

Today's been a good day, except for my 3.5 mile run in the rain (cold rain, too). My feet were squishing and I wrung out my spandex by the time I got home. Wasn't raining when I started....

Back on track food wise- I'm determined to get to goal in the forseeable future. This morning the scale was back at my low of 143, I sure hope it holds for WIW! Losing weight sure has made my face age! Deb- can I rub that goopy stuff on my face as a cheapy facelift????:?:

mel

Good afternoon buds!

Back from Raleigh this afternoon and have already had a nap. :D I needed it, didn't sleep well last night in a room with 3 other women. DH has gone to Atlanta so I won't sleep well tonight either.

Conference is more about shopping than learning. Everyone trying to finish up their Christmas shopping at Crabtree Valley Mall, like Lenox Mall in Atlanta for those of you who know. Went to the Bobby Brown counter (make-up not former New Edition rapper now married to Whitney Houston :lol: ) and got very pampered, loved it and would do that every day if possible. Got some make-up tips and bought a few new products.

My wonderful boss didn't win the award that she had secretly been nominated for, will try again next year! She is deserving of recognition, even if it is not at the state level.

Dixie has to begin taking special Rx dog food and antibiotics, then the vet will repeat her blood work in about a month. The ultrasound showed a hyper-pigmented liver :( and a shortened heart. They admitted the heart thing could be an equipment failure or it could be a sign of heart disease. The doc was glad to hear that her energy level is good and that she eats and plays like a champ. Will go to the vet tomorrow for her during my lunch break.

Kitty is still with us, and she REALLY wants to come in the house. I would like to let her in too, a little damp and cool here tonight. I hate the thought of her being out in the rain and cold, but she does have a warm, dry place to sleep if she chooses it. I am going out to K-Mart later to get a small pet carrier for her so that I can take her to the vet Thursday. I will work on naming her after that fact. Does anyone have an indoor/outdoor cat that has claws and doesn't have an indoor litter box? Am searching for answers, possible solutions here.

Have got a 6-mile run tonight and will do it at the gym. UGHH!! I am not going out on a distance run on the road after the painful one I had on Saturday. Want to be where I can stop and get home if I need to.

The toe is still red and I am still soaking it like a good girl, but no change. At least I don't think it is getting worse. However, now I have this RIDICULOUS rash around BOTH armpits. A reaction to detergent or deodorant or something! :rolleyes:

Hope to be at chat this evening.

Here is the HOLIDAY thought-provoking question for the day:

In your opinion, what would be the ideal temperature during the holiday season?

I think for me it would be just cold enough to snow from Thanksgiving to New Year's. I want it to snow and be a beautiful winter wonderland. I want the Currier and Ives scene.

Would love to hear your thoughts.

Peace,
FROG

Just a quicky to say HELLO! The count down to Payroll deadlines has begun and with the holidays comes a big push to get it done early! I hope to be able to check in at least once and browse your emails. Much love....by the way, you all saved me from a candy binge, I opened the can and thought of you, THANKS!

Hey everyone!

Just a quickie cause I've got some work to do tonight! Had a great day OP but a terrible day mentally.

Another one of my friends is pregnant. And as usual - I'm the last one to find out and it's never done in a good way. Like - I accidentally find out by overhearing conversations. I'm happy for her and I hope everything goes good but you know - I'm just really sad for me and I'm tired of watching all of my friends have babies and all of the wonderful things that go along with it.

Usually on a day like today I would pig out - but I didn't. I was actually sick to my stomach and thought I would vomit.:( For lunch I just picked my meatballs out of my spaghetti and didn't eat any pasta. It's hard to cry and eat and not vomit - you know? Ok - enough of my pity party.

DEB: As always - thanks for the continued support!! I love ya!

ZANNE: Yeah - I agree - the board really helps me to stay OP. I know that y'all will be looking out for me so I need to do good.

SOL: Welcome back girl! Great to see you!

FILLISE: Oh yeah - we are loving it here! The people in New Orleans are so full of ****! The people from here will spend tons of money. They just want to rape everyone by making them stay 3 nights, etc. If they wouldn't jack people around, people from here would go, spend 2 nights, party there for New year's eve and drop loads of cash. All they are doing is pissing us off by talking like that!! Makes us not want to spend the money.

BOB: We may be going to the SB afterall - couldn't get the fax through to cancel our order. I'll let you know!!!

Well, let me run!

Missy
284/265.5/170

HiHo all!!!

Thought I'd better check in before you send out the posse!!! I have just been so busy and of course tired. I have been shopping, going to nursing home,church, stitching, some more decorating and other things in general. Actually I am doing a pretty good job of pacing myself, (let's see...my fingers, eyes and legs are crossed!) yeah I can say that!

Now everyone one of you should buy tickets and come to the best bowl game. New Orleans has so much to offer, especially if you like to drink and partay! Of course, we know LSU will win!

I had a piece of paper that I had notes on about some of the posts. FRUIT, was it you who has the purple and gold Christmas tree? Heck, that' not a Christmas tree, that's a Mardi Gras tree!!

I want to keep stitching, decided to make a couple of small last minute gifts so have to keep going!!

I have been doing okay staying OP. although don't feel as if much has gone away in the past week. I refuse to weigh until next doctor appointment.

Will try to get to chat. GD has a lot of homewrok and has been using computer in evenings.

Take care, sef

Just finished on Ellie. Got in about 5 jogs! And NO puffer!!!! I have asthma and have been using the puffer before exercising. Only slight wheezing now that I'm done. WOW! Only 10 days back at exercising and I can see the health benefits.:spin: I FEEL GREAT!!!

Just wanted to get in here for a minute. I'll get to y'all probably in the morning!

I just got notification that BUSDEB replied here, but I can't see her message!

BUSDEB, if you can see this, I'm not ignoring you, I just can't see what you've written! maybe your message will appear later!

I don't know what happened to my post. I don't have the heart right now to rewrite it all so maybe it will appear later ....if not I will right another one tomorrow or the next day.

Cya,
Debbie :)

Deb, Mel and Viv - Hope it is not too late to wish you a HAPPY CHANUKAH

I don't know if I should weigh tomorrow for wiw. I've really fallen off of the wagon to-day. There was a box of chocolates sitting on the table from one of the patients at work to-day and I dug in and gobbled down four of them. Tonite I cooked some basmati rice with some fish and veggies. I added some onions, red pepper and spices to the rice and it was really yummy and I just sat there shovelling it in like there was no tomorrow. Now I feel really stuffed and not very pleased with myself.

I managed to get some chores done on the weekend as well as some shopping. I don't usually like to shop on the weekend as it is so busy but I was determined to get most of my Christmas shopping done. I also washed inside windows and washed curtains while ds washed the outside windows.

Deb - 6 months at goal - that's great. You must be very pleased. I hope the Dermalin works for you. It's worth a try if it can prevent you having surgery.

Solshine - Glad to see you posting again. I had been wondering what had happened to my buddy. It's good to see you are back exercising again - I wish I could say the same for myself. I'm still playing badminton but that is about it. I'm still hanging in at 195 lbs. I just can't get it to go any lower however hard I try.

Tv - Sorry to hear that the bereavement group didn't turn out very well for you. I'm sure some people feel a benefit from attending these groups but it definitely is not for everyone. I hope your Mom got some comfort from it.

Fillise - I hope you are not working too hard and that your cold is better soon. I love to hear your kitty stories. They are so cute when they are little.

Zanne - It sure is getting cooler these mornings. Several times I have had to scrape the windshield but that is certainly better than the white stuff.

Fruitloupe - Congrats on your progress. It's good to see you are doing lots of walking. It certainly makes it more enjoyable with all the decorations and lights to see.

Meliris - You showed a lot of willpower resisting those latkes. Your 11 year old ds will be a 'real person' before you know it. They grow up so fast. Enjoy his boy humor. My oldest ds used to be a good one for telling jokes at the table at a very young age. Some were quite risque but I am sure he didn't know what they meant. Stuff he picked up from the older kids in the school yard. It used to be hard to keep a straight face. That's a nice pic of you and puppy. Glad to see the scale is moving down for you.

Frog - I love to see the snow but I really don't enjoy driving in it. So as I will be working a lot over the holiday I will hope the snow keeps a way a bit longer. I don't mind if it is cold - as long as the sun shines.

Sef - It sounds like you are as busy as ever. Hope you are feeling well.

Bye.

Marie.

Dear Fruit:

Your message touched me. I am sorry to hear your friend's may not be handling your feelings in this manner in the best way. They are probably trying to protect your feelings and end up making you feel worse. Maybe all would feel better if you told them how you feel and how you would like to be directly included in their happy news.

I am one of those 35 y.o. women who still hasn't decided if she wants to be a mother when she grows up. You said that you are tired of seeing your friend's having babies and all the joys that go along with it. I see the advantages and joys associated with becoming a parent, but I also see the advantages and joys of being a 2 person family; "DINKS" - Dual Income, No Kids.

While I am not attempting to tell you that you shouldn't be sad, I am just trying to point out that there are advantages to being without children. Maybe it would help to appreciate some of them while you wait for that EPT to turn blue. Here are some of the things I often think of: I don't have to get up in the middle of the night to feed, diaper or handle a crisis of some nature. I can get 8 hours of consecutive sleep. I don't have to worry about carpool, PTA fall festivals and teacher gifts this time of year. I don't have to be concerned about chosing between career and family. I don't have to worry about becoming my mother (even though she is great!). I can pursue events in my life right now that would be difficult if I had children. And this January I can go to Disney and skip the Dumbo ride. :lol:

I hope that you can enjoy this time with your husband, because when you do become a mother, you may have less of this type of time together. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers that you will become a mother soon. Hang in there sweetie.

And BTW - "ATTA GIRL" for not shoving your feelings down your throat with a fork!

Peace,
FROG

BOB--Here’s the answer to your query about UT going to the Citrus and the Gators going to the OB: It’s all about money!! I think the Gator fans are KNOWN to be huge supporters of their team and will go and spend lots of money. Any city loves that. And Miami folks thought that UF would bring in more people than UT, so they picked based on the bottom line.
Also, what Missy said is also part of the equation. I happen to agree with your hubby, Missy. Let’s go for a playoff. Most Gators are in favor of a playoff system, and think the BCS computers are awful. Even our Head Ball Coach would like a playoff system.

SolShine--Nice to see you back.

Fillise--were you the one asking about the cat-indoors and outdoors? We have an indoor/outdoor cat. He has been declawed on his front claws and spends most nights out. We don’t have a litter box indoors. We let him stay in at night about 10 days out of the year=when it is very cold, a hurricane, or when he is sick or wants to get in a cat fight. He then will sleep on a towel at the foot of our bed. Otherwise, I don’t know where he sleeps when he is outdoors. We have a cat bed for him on our porch, but he often is not in it when we get up. He does very well, and prefers to be out. Although, during the day, we will let him in if he wants, and he likes to sleep by a window or be around us begging for food, like a dog.

Debelli--Still looking for your e-mail. I have changed my e-mail address from the old macgator@gdi.net. That is not a good address. I believe I have posted the correct one on the bio page. BTW, Happy Chanukah.

Well, it’s late, so I’m off to bed.

Found something that may or may not be helpful to you.


For info on fertility click here (http://womencentral.msn.com/babies/articles/preconception_0219.asp)

Peace,
FROG

Morning everyone!

Up a pound today! UGH - I guess it has to do with mid-cycle or something! But, I'm still down by 2 pounds from last week so that's good!:D

FROG: Thanks so much for caring and understanding! Many of the girls on this board have been through some of my miscarriages with me and know how hard I've been trying to have a baby. Lately I've been doing really well - coping that is...and I think that my friends think - Oh - Missy is doing so good - she's cured - she's not a depressed lunatic anymore!! So, in turn - they've been talking A LOT more about their kids and what's going on with them, bringing pictures, etc. Drives me NUTS! I know that when you have kids they become your life and that's all you talk about. I don't want them to feel like they can't talk about it around me because that wouldn't be fair to them...just limit the conversation - you know what I mean?!? I have now asked my friend - who also happens to be my boss - to let me know when someone is pregnant. I just can't handle the surprise finding out you know - in front of everyone. Just come to my room, call me, something and let me know so that I can get my emotions out before I see that person - that way, I can have my fake smile on and say congratulations and not cry!! I totally hear you about the perks of not having kids though. As my hubby and I were on our flight to Hollywood this summer I looked at him and said "you know, we wouldn't be doing this if we had kids!" I've actually been trying to do that more often - especially when I'm down in the dumps. I try to steer my mind off of it by reminding myself of the things we get to do because we don't have kids! But, I see my friends with their kids and it just makes me sad because I want to be able to go and cheer for them at soccer games, etc. POOR ME! You know the saying.....you always want something more when you can't have it! Kind of like a diet!! Thanks for being such a good friend...I'll check out that site you posted tonight!

SEF: Girl - it's not a Mardi Gras tree - it's an LSU tree that will convert into a Mardi Gras tree after new years!! HAHA!

By ladies - have a good day!

Missy
284/266.5/170

Just wanted to be first :D but FRUIT beat me to it.

FRIUT - Glad to see your post. You sound like you really have your emotions in check. I don't think you're a lunatic and I have seen others experience what you've described when learning that others are pregnant. It sounds like you have a positive mental outlook. Keep your chin up and pray for the best, God's will, whatever that may be for you, and accept His gracious gifts. I hope my words are helpful.

Good luck with WIW today. Will post results after I weigh!

Peace,
FROG

Well, I guess that OD on shortbreads didn't effect me too much (still get queezie looking at the box-but that's a good thing;) )I'M DOWN 2 LBS--FINALLY Now the tricky part is to keep it off!:^:

Looks like the board was a bit busy last night.

FRIUT I know how you're feeling. I was going thru the same thing 5 or 6 years ago. No sooner had one friend had a baby, another was pregnant. Or it seemed some couples could just look at each other funny and get pregnant. At that time our gang was getting together almost monthly-guys would play cards, girls would yack. The yacking always got onto the kids, or pregnancies. I was happy for my friends, but sad for me. I'd come home depressed and sometimes stand in the shower and cry. We were doing everything we were supposed to, but nothing happened. We tried fertility docs, the pills the shots, the aritificial inseminations--still nothing but grief. Next step was to try in vitro--very expensive and still not very good odds. We decided to stop the medical stuff. The drugs had wrecked havoc on my body and I didn't want to do it any more. And it's no fun when someone else tells you exactly when to have sex!:o Emotionally it got too much. I was very sad. The only thing I'd ever wanted to do with my life was be a mom. That was supposed to be my career.

DH and I decided to adopt. Very difficult to find an infant or child under 2. We decided to adopt from Guatamala and brought our 14 month old son home December 23rd (nearly the 24th cause we got in near midnight) in 1998. What a wonderful Christmas present!!!!:D

We're now starting to think about a sibling for him. I'm doing SB cause the docs think I may have PCOS. I don't have the one dominant symptom of irregular periods, but have several others, so PCOS isn't totally ruled out. I'm also 37 which means the clock is ticking. We're going to try again on our own. I'm trying to lose weight cause sometimes that helps one to get pregnant. I have DH do reflexology massage on my feet every night--the pressure points for my endocrine are really sore which is supposed to indicate a problem. I'm trying everything "natural" and if that doesn't work, we'll adopt again. (expensive, but at least there is a guaranteed outcome). Mind you, we have friends who did in vitro twice successfully and then against all odds conceived on their own (she thought she had the flu at first :lol: )

Now, what FROG says is true too. I've been on both sides of the coin. I've had the extra time with hubby before child came and I think it was a blessing. We got to know each other better, we had more money to do what we wanted, paid off our house, went on trips etc. I too think your friends were trying to spare your feelings.

If you want to talk more, email or PM me. Take care of yourself and GOOD FOR YOU for not "pigging out".

FROG Your point of view to FRUIT is true. At the time I couldn't see that. I was only focused on one thing--becoming a mom. But after our little one arrived, I could see the benefits of having DH all to myself for those extra years. Thanks for posting the link to the fertility site. I'm always reading up in case there's something new I haven't heard before.

I'm keeping Dixie in my thoughts. At least you know what you might be dealing with. When you don't know it's scary cause you don't know how to deal with it. Sorry I can't help you with kitty. My kitties are indoor only. The big chicken cat, Freddie, will barely poke his head out if I leave the door open and itty bitty Tiddles will wander out, but I keep an eye on her. I figure the cats bring in pollens and stuff on their fur and that bugs my allergies. They seem very happy inside. And they have their claws. They usually only scratch their post, but sometimes scratch at the carpets.



SOLSHINE Glad to see ya post. I know it's sometimes difficult to get here often; glad you checked in.

FILLISE thanks for the encouragement! Scale went down today. Now to keep it down......

ROSALIE Yup, it is getting cooler. Had to wear a hat when I took DS to school, but by midday I was ready to ditch the winter jacket and just put on a light windbreaker. It's been perfect weather for getting windows done:lol: I've been doing that too! Don't fret too much about the chocolates and rice. I had a pig out on shortbreads last week and today the scale went down for some reason. And at least the rice was legal!

BUSDEB Saw your message saying you lost your original. I hope you're doing ok. How are the horses?

SEF That's pacing yourself??? Boy you sure are busy! Just take care to keep well.

LDBLOND Hooray for keeping away from the candy.

MEL YUCK! Cold rain is worse than snow. And wet feet are bad too . Hope you got all toasty warm when you got home. Don't want to get sick this time of year--or at all for that matter.

DEBELLI That dessert sounds good. I'll have to try it sometime. Chanukah sounds like it takes some planning with the gifts! 8 days worth. I hope that goopy stuff works for you then you can wear shorts and show off all your hard work.


I found a legal chocolate bar yesterday. " Lindt Excellence 70% cocoa". MARIE In case you're interested, I found it at Loblaws for $2.99 (I think) for 100g.

Wow, I've been at this for nearly an hour! Gotta get. Talk to you all later!

Looks like we were all typing at the same time. and we're all on the same wave link! Witchy women we are!;)

Good Wednesday Morning Everyone:wave:

Up really early today, starting this post well before 6am. Michael has been up most of the night/morning doing some AP EURO homework and the light in the hallway wakes me up (light sleeper), not to mention some jack hammer that seems to be non-stop noise next to me in bed (Eli, over tired). So, I thought, what better way can I spend some extra time I have but to start my morning post

Went to the Super Walmart yeterday, got a steal on Asian pears, 2 or $1.00 (reg. .97 cents each). Bought 26 of those babies. They had blackberries on sale too for $1.50 1/2 pint. Needless to say, I'll be getting in some good fiber!

Thanks to those of you who joined me in the chat room last night. I was surprised that anyone would show due to the holidays-actually, I was surprised I stayed-honestly, I was feeling barfy and tired!

Barfy and tired, you know what that means for me! Thank goodness I didn't physically get sick, just the naseuas feeling, but it usually results in a loss when that happens. I'm down 1.5lbs from yesterday, to 120lbs, but still up 1.5lbs from my all time low. I'm happy though

So, with it being WEIGH IN WEDNESDAY I hope you all have good luck on the scales today:D

I gooped up my stomach again last night with the Dermalin-that stuff is hard to wash off your hands! Hoping to see a difference in 2 weeks time and will keep you all informed.

Eli is off today, so it's up to Broward we go:D Dying for Ole Ole and of course, Carbolite for dessert. Going to stop at some sites in between.

Time to take a break, have to go make Michael's lunch and get ready for my morning walk. I'll finnish this up when I get back during my cool down...

I'm back, ended up doing only 3.5 miles today, decided to take it a little easy;)

SOL, glad to see your post. Did you get my e-mail?? Looking forward to seeing you in a few weeks. Have to see what we can plan. I'll try to call you sometime soon:)

FILLISE, sorry to hear your still not feeling well:( Hope you shake this off soon.

MEL, e-mail me the picture and I'll see what I can do-I'll try to fanagel it somehow to get it to post bigger. Hmm, not sure about rubbing the goop on your face for a face lift, but I found if you really pull your hair back tight in a pony tail, REALLY tight, you get a mild effect-but darn, your hair is short-hmmm, okay how about taking masking tape and pulling some saggy skin back and taping it up? Hey, it's a lot cheaper! Seriously though, I'm really in need of a neck lift. Tom the Turkey has nothing on me in the neck dept!!!:eek:

FROG, I've been to the Lenox Mall years ago-nice place. Do you ever stop at Harry's when you go to GA? Love that place. Ideal temperature for the holidays, anything below 70 degrees would be ideal down here!!! But above 50! Okay, as our resident "Foot Dr.". how the heck can I tell if I have a corn or wart on my 4th toe? It's driving me nuts, hurts and not sure what to do for it. Any ideas?

LDBLOND, glad to see your post-hope things settle down a bit for you soon:)

FRUIT, sorry to hear about the mental anguish ordeal. I think there wasn't any ill-intent not telling you. I think people feel akward, esp. knowing your circumstances. They want to probably tell you, but then they may feel like they are "rubbing it in" and then they may not want to tell you because they know it's going to hurt you in someway. Really, it's a Catch-22 situation on the other end and some people just don't know how to handle a situation like this. I'm proud of you for not consoling yourself with food over this, it doesn't help anything even if you had. Just know that you are doing something good for yourself by losing weight and hopefully, once you are down to a healthy weight for your body, those hormones will kick in correctly and you'll be the one getting pregnant. I've been there, so I don't speak out of my rear, but from experience. Heck, when you look at my picture when I was 284lbs, can you only imagine me getting pregnant at that weight!:eek: Thank goodness that didn't happen. It was a risky pregnancy with Michael as it was at a lower weight. I truly believe everything is destined. There's a reason you are back here with us and back on track-keep going in the right direction and see where it leads you:D Hey, not to worry about the gain, it's temporary and you know it. At least you haven't gone up like I can 5-6 pounds!

SEF, as usual, I see you are over doing it again! At least you found time to post during your hectic day. Glad I didn't have to find out where you were-but I was starting to worry about you, so glad to see your post on the board!

ZANNE, CONGRATS on your 2lb loss-that's wonderful news. And good going on Ellie and not having to use your inhaler!!! See the great benefits while you're not starving yourself. The Lindt is good. There's a ton of others out there. Eli brought me a bar back from Montreal last year, 80% cocoa-highest I've seen-haven't tried it yet though. Yes, 8 nights of presents can be hard to find, but I usually don't have that much of a problem, it's getting harder each year though.

ROSALIE, was wondering where you were! Thanks for the Chanukah greetings, nope not too late-we're only on the 4th night tonight. I doubt those 4 pieces of chocolate haven't undone all the good you've done the rest of the week. I'd say, get on the scale and see what's going on and start anew today.

GATOR, thanks for the holiday wishes. I'll e-mail you later.

Okay, I'm outta here for today. Will check in sometime later. I'll be glued to watch THE AMAZING RACE tonight! I hope they bring that show back on soon-I'm going to miss it!!!

REMINDER TOMOROW IS RECIPE DAY so if you have any good SB LEGAL RECIPES you'd like to share, please, try to post them tomorrow.

Have a great day!

Debbie
194/120/129
SB since 3/22/00
Reached goal 6/10/01

Real quickie- will post to all of you later but just had to do WIW. DOWN 3.5 from 2 weeks ago (last week was too aweful to post)! I couldn't believe it actually hung in there for Wednesday!!!

I have so much I want to say to you all, FRUIT and FROG,esp., will try to get on later!!{{{hugs}}}}

mel
175/141/13?

Wow! What a busy thread! You gals are such keeners.

I am a low carber and post over there but am edging around trying Sugar Busters. Will be getting the book to read over Christmas. So you may see me on here one day soon.

Have a wonderful holiday everyone.

Another Canuk! This is a very helpful, supportive board. Join in whenever you're ready. I really like SB and find I can make it work with my lifestyle/family eating habits.

Hope to see you here!

Finally - I broke the 145 mark!!!! :smug:

159/144/125 since 6/4/01 - this is a new low for me by 1 lb!!

Its about time! I really am surprised though because it is day 3 of TOM, so a loss is kinda unusual......... I have been doing much better on the water and have actually exercised the last 2 nights, so I guess that made a difference! I'll have the motivation to keep it up now!

Don't have much time right now - haven't had much time lately at all. Will try to post more later!

Take care,
tv

Hello everyone. Just wanted to let you all know that I am still here and still doing OK. Sticking to plan really good,since it seems that it is the only thing I can control :) Thanks everyone for keeping me in your thoughts and prayers. Liz

This is the first time I've had to read some posts for awhile. I won't even discuss my eating - let's just say I'm making BIG New Year's resolutions! I wanted to jump in on just this one topic...

FRUIT - I hope I can put this in words that don't offend or upset you--I'm trying my best. I can understand your anguish. I was diagnosed with probable PCOS back in the late 80's when there wasn't much known about it. We tried to get pregnant on our own and nothing was happening. I had always been irregular, so I knew that I was probably the reason we weren't having any luck. I went to the infertility clinic at the University here in town which has a very good reputation. I did all the normal tests and got to the point where the next thing to try was the shots. I balked at that because of the great possibility of multiple births. I guess I didn't have that overwhelming need to GIVE birth, as I was truly happy for all friends who were pregnant (And there were ALOT all in the period of about 4 years). I just wanted to have a family. We decided to adopt a baby from Korea and he is the light and joy of our life - even if he is a teenager now with all the moodiness that entails! I still get a newsletter from the adoption agency and there are many children-babies-available if you are willing to go out of country. (You won't have a birth mother or father knocking at your door wanting their child back!)

Adoption has also become much less of a financial burden, as I think now up to $10,000 could be a deduction or credit on taxes. Nothing like that was available 13 years ago. I think it is very sad that the costs prohibit more people from adopting. Maybe this new tax law will help.

If I hit a sore spot with you, I'm very sorry. I guess I feel strongly that adoption gets a bad connotation - you know, adopt a highway, adopt a cat, etc. It makes a family, which was my goal.

May your dreams come true, soon! Just hang in there! If you want to talk more, please feel free to e-mail me. Even if I upset you, e-mail me and let me know so that I keep my mouth shut in the future:o

Karen

At work, will post more later! Am down to 152.5!

:spin:

Back after a day of everything going wrong so far, all minor but real annoying. Mostly undoing mini-disasters caused by ds. Thank you sef, for assuring me he WILL grow up! (if he lives to see his 12th birthday....)

Deb- Love the masking tape idea. Maybe for our next holiday party I'll decorate strips of tape with alternating xmas trees and menorahs. Should be the talk of the party, but at least nobody will notice all those eye wrinkles and forehead crinkles! Now I just need a hair style to incorporate masking tape:lol: DH's solution was to tell me to buy a lower cut dress and miracle push up bra, and no one will look at my face. Very tactful. Tho he did make nice by saying "what wrinkles" after the cleavage comments. (i'll email that pic to you later today. thanx)

Frog- Great the scale is moving, do you think the change in meds was it or are you doing something else? re fence sitting on having kids: I love my kids, but mourn my career, all the vacations we've never had, and the retirement that may never be. Family is what you make it and people who bring you the most joy and to whom you mean the most do not necessarily have to be biological offspring. On the other side of the fence tho, at 35 you don't have a lot of deciding time left if things don't go smoothly. I goota say tho that some of the happiest couples I know are those who chose to be childless, and invested their time and emotions in their marriage. Just my random observations.
oh yeah- about cats: we've had more that I can remember. Our current pussy is INDOOR only because all the indoor/oudoor ones got 1)lost, 2)hurt, 3)sick or 4)flea and tick ridden. I finally decided it was far less cruel to declaw and keep her inside rather than running the risk of lossing her one way or another. 1 cat had to be put down becuase she was on the short end of a battle w/ a racoon!

and while I'm sticking my nose in everyone else's business...

Fruit- I think everybody has already said all the things I wanted to say to you. I've been there too, but with secondary infertility. The 8 1/2 years between my kids included 3 miscarriages, surgery for endometriosis, then 2 years of fertility drugs, then 1 year of giving up. I know it was easier to face already having had 1 healthy happy child, but it was still miserable. People have no idea what to say, so say and do incredibly stupid or insensitive things, not realizing how it is being received. And it does look like the whole world is pregnant except you. I just kept trying to remember the saying "never ascribe to malice what can be explained by studpidity". Unless someone has been through it, I truly believe they cannot understand the despair you can feel. My heart goes out to you, and hope that someday you will be as surprised as I was.

Gotta go, the timer for the haircolor goop just went off!

mel

Karen--I don't think Missy will be upset with anything you said. I've already told her that many people have "been in her shoes," and that I myself have 2 children, both adopted. That was back in the days when adoption was the logical thing to do for women who found themselves in a crisis pregnancy. With the changed mores of our society and the huge number of abortions now, those kind of adoptions are much rarer now a days. I know many people who have adopted children from a foreign country and they all have been very blessed in that experience. Hmmm, seems like there are quite a few of us adoptive moms here on this board.

My kids are now 31 and 28, but I can still remember that all that "stuff" with infertility sure took some of the fun out of sex then. Thank goodness that only lasted a couple of years till we "got smart" and got our children the "new fashioned way."

Been studying French all day. I'm having a big test next Wed. night and have a review tonight. Have been slacking off a bit, so now need to catch up. I don't think a foreign language is a good thing to try to play catch-up in.

Hey All:wave:

Getting ready to go over to my sisters for BIL birthday, ice cream and cake, and unless there's some Breyers Vanilla, I won't be partaking in anything, besides, I had a LARGE COCONUT CARBOLITE after lunch at Ole Ole today:D

After running errands with Eli this morning we didn't have that much time to schmize (run) around up in Broward, but the time we had was nice:)

MEL-CONGRATS! That's great news on the loss this week! WOO HOO! You're inching your way closer and closer to goal! Got the picture, yes, it's a bit big. Will try to reduce it and send it over so you can load it up there. Looks like you've got DEVIL DOG:devil: next to you, all I can see are the reds of his eyes! Wrinkles, what wrinkles?????? You look great!!! Eli's son has a bumpter sticker that says "avoid wrinkles, go braless". Hmmm, that just doesn't seem to work for me!:rolleyes:

RUTH, WELCOME We're glad to hear you are joining us soon. I know you'll feel right at home with the wonderful group of women on this board. Please, don't hesitate to ask questions about SB, the book can be vague and misleading a little and we're more than happy to help decipher it. I also recommend Michael Montignacs book, which is supposedly quite big in Canada and a good read (his book is what SB is based on). Okay, now I must ask, where is DELTA????

TV, CONGRATS! What great and wonderful news to finally hit below your low. You must be doing a happy dance!!! Okay, I'm doing one for you!! Keep up the great work!!

LIZERY, glad to see your post-we've all been wondering how you were doing. Please let us know what's going on and how you are doing when you can. I really do wish you'd try to come meet us in Orlando in a few weeks, I think you'd have a good time-try to think about it, if you can.

FROG, WOO HOOOOOO!! You go girl! That's great news! Anoher 1.5lbs!!! You're certainly headed in the right direction!:spin:

Gotta run. Will check with you all later~

Debbie
194/120/129
SB since 3/22/00
Reached goal 6/10/01

Words can't describe how happy I am to see ANOTHER loss after all those months of gaining! Every pound I can lose between now and race day is one less I gotta hawl for 26.2 miles!! I was at 150 in July, the same month I was at my lowest of 146 AND the same month I started on the meds I think are responsible for the gain. With the exception of 1 week I have been losing since going off of that blasted stuff! The other thing that is a benefit of going off the meds is that I haven't seen any sort of return to the pain that I was having. I honestly think the topcial ointment treatment is working better than the drugs!

Called the vet for an appointment for no-name Kitty. She is going in at 3:00 tomorrow for a poke and proud. Hope she is feline leukemia and AIDS negative! Am going to talk to the vet more about the indoor thing. DH is probably gonna have a hard time with that. Will have to see how it all plays out. Hope I can postpone the spay until Christmas or Disney trip. Don't know what I will do with her during the holiday. Dixie goes to my in-laws (AKA "camp") but there is 100% no way they would have the cat there, especially with 2 labs (Dixie and Blaze). I think she (cat) may be getting used to my routine. Tonight when I got home I called her and she immediately came hopping over the back fence for a little din-din. LOVE to see her scale the back fence, one of those 6-foot wooden ones.

Dixie gets excited to see her too and charges up to her. She sorta cowers, but I think she is getting used to Dixie. They really are cute together. I told my boss today that I would have to have a pay raise to pay for these animals. When I made the vet appointment for the cat today I could hear the cash register ringing!! Friday I have to go to Dixie's vet to get her Rx and dog food! But I love animals and they are certainly cheaper than children. I have a pillow on my couch that says "My dog is my baby" and that she is!

Now a chance to respond to my online buds!

Congrats to all the losers!! Look at how great you are all doing during the holidays!!! That is terrific!

TV - New low! I hope I am hot on your heels!

MEL - I definetly think it was the Rx that were causing the gain. The increase in exercise between now and then is not that significant to cause such a sudden loss. It totally correlates with the ceasing of the meds. Congrats on your loss too! Thanks for the tips on Le Chat! I am so much more in favor of an insde cat, for just the same reasons that you are. One thing I struggle with is having them on the kitchen counter after a visit to the litter box. :eek: That is why I think a blend of indoor and outdoor may be a good bet for us. But on the other hand, as I drive down the street each night I worry that I will see her lying in it. The thought of it breaks my heart! :( I am sure that I will reach a happy conclusion, even if it means finding her a terrific indoor home.

LIZ - It was great to see your post. Hang in there and PLEASE let us know how you're doing!

KAREN and GATOR - Thanks for sharing your comments on adoption! I have never tried to become pregnant, but have always thought that I would heavily consider adoption option. The friend of a friend had a private adoption in Florida and she has a wonderful son that is a complete joy. I also know of others who have adopted internationlly with mixed results in ease of adoption and the child's developmental level. Working in the profession I do I see many children who have been adopted internationally. It is amazing to see the trends.

DEB - You need to get Eli some Breathe Right strips for that buzz saw of his. :lol: I am not familiar with Harry's. What is that? Love your new avatar BTW. It is soo cute. Corn vs. wart, hmmmm. Let me look that one up. Found a great site for you. Link to it here: Corns and Wart Info for DEB (http://www.familyinternet.com/Quickcare/skin/warts.html) I think that might be just what you need!

APB now being sent out for the following chicks!!!
NANCE
BELINDA WANNABE
SPARKLE SCAMP
NASCAR GIRL
QUILTER
AMSERAPHIM
BEACH FAN

If you see your name, please let us know how you are. We miss you when you are away.

It's about time to go get comfy on the big red couch and continue crocheting grandma's Christmas gift, a shawl. Happy Thursday tomorrow.

Peace,
FROG

New numbers: 190/152.5/130
(37.5 down, 22.5 to go)

BRALESS AND NO WRINKLES? Deb, you were looking at the dog!

mel

EVENING EVERY BUDDY!!! :D


Got a letter from my Doctor today saying that I have to do a fasting glucose tolerance test. My sugar was 122 and she thinks I need to do this test to make sure...:eek: Diabetes is in my family, my Paternal GM had a mild (is there such a thing?) case and took
pills...not injections. She didn't mention my cholesterol or triglycerides...I guess she will lamblast me when I see her in January..

DEB AMAZING RACE is on TOMORROW NIGHT AFTER SURVIVOR....it will be the finale..

FRUIT Sorry you're down in the dumps..I know how badly you want children, and I firmly believe that one day you will have just what you want...
Let me know if you go to the game...I'll be sure to watch for you....you'll be the one in gold and purple right???? :lol: :smug:

FROG Hope DIXIE is feeling better. The kitty will help her to feel better. Scratch her ears for me will you?

HELLO EVERYONE ELSE I'm about to climb up in my bed and get comfy....
Had to take SKEETER to the vet today with his annual Christmas ear infection and to get his allergy shots....WHAT was that you said FROGGIE about animals NOT being as EXPENSIVE as KIDS???? :s:

BOB

hi everyone,

sorry haven't posted in a week but work has really been busy I seem to have the bad luck when it comes to being on call had two 15 hr days then had to go to work on sunday. today was first day i have come home on time. well i am going to continue on SB and continue to post but i am just trying to maintain now since i just found out i am pregnant. I still am in shock. We have been trying for years. I was told i had pcos i had many of the symptoms no periods to very irregular periods. since i lost the 50lbs and have been on SB my periods have been coming on a regular basis. I had really just accepted that maybe it wasnt meant to be and i was happy with the life i had. My husband and i have gone on some great trips over the last few years. we have been to alaska panama canal and many caribbean islands. iam glad that we made the most of our time. I do understand depression about not getting pregnant it is very easy to focus on that. one day though i realized that i was alive and life was going on without me. and i remembered my sister that died when she was 17 and about all the things she would never get to do. well didnt mean to get preachy. hope i didnt offend anybody. I really do understand though about how it feels when everyone around you is pregnant and your not. I have to get back on the sb legal eating i have had bad few days have to be careful with weight gain eeven though i lost alot of weight iam still to close to danger zone also with pcos iam prone to diabetes dont want that

well got ot go very tired
susan

Oh my - I just typed a HUGE post and lost it!! UGH!!!!

Ok - just had to vent!!! So, now I'll start all over!!!

You ladies are the most wonderful people on Earth!:angel: Thanks for all of your wonderful replies! I love you all!

KAREN: Girl - I am certainly not mad at all!!! Thanks so much for your post! Actually I would like to talk to you about your adoption experience and actually - do you know more about that tax deduction? Money is definately a factor in why we haven't adopted yet!

DEB, FROG, ZANNE, KAREN, GATOR, MEL & BOB: Thanks so much for all of the wonderful words - I feel so much better today! It's amazing how most of us have had similar problems! I've also been diagnosed with a mild case of PCOS and I also have endometriosis! We are all twins!! Are we related and don't know it? As for the adoptive parents in here - you all will be happy to know that we start the adoption classes this summer. You all know - and everyone has said - God has a plan. Well, I'm not the most religious person in here (imagine that!) but I have to say that God has led me to a very important person lately. I got a call from a lady wanting me to tutor her child in reading - she is in 8th grade. Well, come to find out - the mother is one of the most important people in the state adoption program in our area! How about that?!? We figured that due to overwhelming debt in medical bills/fertility crap we would not be able to afford a private adoption. So, we were going to go through the state. My sister adopted through the state 4 years ago (Claire was 3 at the time) and we just love her to pieces!!! I realize that an infant is hard to come by these days - so I wouldn't mind a toddler! Well, my friend will be the one conducting the classes and she will be doing our home study. I'm so happy that I know her because it will make the process much easier. We had decided that we will try once more for one of our own but while waiting, we will start the adoption process. I still have all of this weight to lose (my specialist won't do any hormone therapy until I'm as close to ideal weight as possible) and I'll have to have another surgery to remove the endometriosis that has grown back. So, needless to say - I've got plenty of time! I've waited this long - I can wait a little longer I guess! I just wish that I wouldn't get so upset when I find out my friends are pregnant - well, one step at a time! At least I have you all who have been in my shoes to talk to. I can't stand when people say "Oh - I understand how you feel" Yeah right - as they sit at home with 3 kids and have never had a miscarriage!! Those people make me sick! Ok - enough of that! Thanks again for all of your wonderful words - I could feel the hugs through the computer!!!

Well, I wanted to respond to all of you, but now that I've been on this computer forever - I'm pooped! Congrats to all of you losers! I'll talk to you all tomorrow!!!!!!! Thanks a million!

Missy

HiHo all!

I feel o much lighter! Got a haircut today, it was way overdo. I went to Wal*Mart again, I think it's my second home! Then wrapped gifts. I try to spend equally on the kids, I checked today and have to get my dd something else! She keeps track of such things! Then choir practice tonight, which was earlier than usual. Our contata is Sunday, Saturday will be full fress rehearsal.

Tomorrow is nursing home day and then in the vening I go to Board meeting for Habitat, I've been asked to be Recording Secretary.

Some good news, my dd is coming for Christmas. She thinks she will drive. I know with two drivers I've done it with one overnight, she thinks that's all she will need too. I hope the visit goes well, she is always on the defense. She can't take kidding but loves to kid others. I often feel I have to walk on eggs when she is around! It's all my fault. I once told dil that I must have been a lousy mother for dd to be the way she is, her reply was that I was ds's mother too and he isn't like that. So I don't know!

All this talk about adoption. My father was adopted when he was about 4 or 5, my mother was adopted by my grandmother's second husband when she was about 7 or 8 (never knew my blood gransdfather) and my sister has two adoptive daughters who are wonderful. So I am all for adoption!! Before we married my husband and I discussed he possibility of adoption if we could not conceive. My sister adopted years ago the girls are now in their early 30s, it was quite a process then but now it is a little easier I understand.

Did I mention that my muumuus are getting longer so I am losing inches if nothing else!

Well, should hit the hay!

Take care all. sef

Hey Y'all! Just checkin' in!

Finishing up breakfast. Dixie is having hers too, no sign of Miss Kitty this mornin' which makes me anxious. :rolleyes: I let her come in for about 30 minutes last night to see what she would do. She stalked around the house rubbing her scent everywhere, then eventually ended up on the chair & 1/2 and ottoman which is Dixie and DH's nightly lounging area :eek: !!! She really knew how to make herself at home. Purred like crazy. Meanwhile Dixie looked at her and followed her around. She looked at me like she knew DH would kill me if he knew I let her in. :lol: Thankfully Dixie had put herself to bed when Kitty jumped up on the chair & 1/2, which BTW is covered with Dixie's blanket. Not good! Hope she shows back up in time for the vet appointment. That is all of the "pet chronicles" this morning! :D

Will check back in again later.

Have a great Thursday everyone!

Peace,
FROG

190/152.5/130

Good Morning all,
This has been another busy week for me. The field trip yesterday went well. It was chilly in the morning but then warmed up by night fall so it could rain. We are under a flash flood wash for today. Lovely weather......NOT!!!

My oldest ds has a knot on his wrist so I am taking him to have it looked at today at 10:30 otherwise I would be on my way to another field trip. I got someone to cover for me so I could take ds.

I did not get post yesterday but I have a loss to report. I lost another 2 pounds which brings my total to 26. I hope to at least maintain this over the holidays and will concentrate on lossing more after the 1st.

We have a family get together tomorrow night. I still have not decided what to take. I am searching recipes today so I can prepare tomorrow.

Frog ....congrats on your loss....and I love hearing your pet stories. I also enjoyed chatting with you on Tuesday ....those of you who are not joining us are missing a treat.

Sef.....I understand about the Walmart thing.....good they don't charge a cover charge. I would not be able to afford Christmas. LOL

Fruitloupe.....I undestand your pain about your post ....I posted two days ago and lost it also. Then I didn't have the time or the heart to post again.

Bob......good to see you and good luck on your glucose test. Those are always so much fun.....NOT!!!

Deb.....good to see you ......how was the birthday party?

TV.....sorry I haven't had time to write you .....hope your feeling better today.....we are here for you .....anytime you need to talk.

Liz.....thanks for letting us know you are ok. My thoughts and prayers continue with you.

And to all I missed .....a SUPER BIG HELLO!!!!

Cya all later,
Debbie :))

Hello everyone!

It is rainy and miserable here is central AL today. Probably the weather you LA girls had yesterday or the day before! I wish I could say the cold is better, but it has settled in and gets no better, but no worse either.

I am making a determined effort the get the sugar back out of my system before Christmas. It is like I can feel it in my very pores--ICK!

This will be short as I have to head over to the church for a staff meeting. Did I mention I have become the new DCE at my church? I'm working 15-20 hours a week there administering the Christian Education program. I'm also in the final stages of trying to sign two political candidates for next year's campaign. If I can do that--then I think I'm in good shape for the coming year.

Susan

ps--Gator: Bon chance on your exam!

Hello all. It's been one crazy week. I'm just now getting time to catch up on everyone. I had to take Dennis and James to the dr on Monday. Dennis had cough so much that he had pulled a muscle and was in a lot of pain. James had barked all night so I took him too. They both have bronchitis.:( Both are better now. I had my bone density test done while I was there. I did not get good news.:cry: Seems I've already begun to lose bone.:o I'm back on 1500 mg of calcium and a prescription - Actonel- that's supposed to rebuild bone. He also said that I needed to do some sort of weight bearing exercise. I guess this will push me to start walking again. I really need to because I had wagon tracks across my bod again.:eek:

FRUIT: Sorry to hear about your problems. I won't say I know how you feel, but I can relate. Dennis and I tried for six loooong years before we had Sarah. It is very hard to see friends who are pregnant. Even harder for me was to see kids at school that nobody wanted. I thought why can they have kids? They don't deserve them. My thoughts are with you.

BUSDEB: Hope the dr. visit goes OK.

ZSU: Congratulations!:)

JRED: When is you last day of school? Kids get out the 19th and we work the 20th. I am soooo ready.:yawn:

I'll check in later.

Good Thursday Morning Eveyone:wave:

Getting in a quick as possibly post. Got in my walk this morning and then started working on the stuff for the garage sale. I put the ad in the Miami Herald yesterday, so there's no turning back at this point. I'm just so overwhelmed with all the crap I've got to sell, mostly clothes, most of them the kids-you have no idea. I already have 3 8ft tables filled to the brim with clothing outside (plastic over them). Afraid to take much more out, looks like the threat of rain overhead. Eli doesn't believe me when I tell him whatever doesn't sell is going to be donated. The only thing I may keep is one box of clothes that have yet to be worn (some still has full tags on them) so I can donate them to Michael's school for an upcoming garage sale fundraising event. If I had the space I'd donate all of it, but since the date hasn't been decided and I want to get rid of it once and for all-out it goes! I'll be working on it all day tomorrow. Today is sorta split up for me, have some errands to do before I go get the kids from school, so I'm done for the morning, so I think.

Poop! I had thought AMAZING RACE was on last night-since it wasn't, I was sleeping by 9:30pm-I guess it wasn't all too bad since I was so tired. I will be glued to the TV tonight though!

Just a few quick replies. Hope you all don't mind, but times short today for me.

FROG, thanks for that link. Will go read it and see what I can determine. Harry's is a really great type of market, the most unusual produce is there, along with other items like meats, chickens, international items. They have a wonderful bakery too:) You should try to check them out next time you go to GA.

SZU, CONGRATULATIONS! That's wonderful news and I'm sure the weight loss was helpful in this event finally happening to you. What's also great is that you can continue on SB since it's such a healthy WOE! When are you due?? I hope it's contagious, not for me of course, but for others who are also trying.

FRUIT, I'm sure whatever is meant to be will be-and no matter what or how you have a little one fill your life, you're going to be a great Mom!!!

SEF, glad to hear the MuMu's are getting bigger!!!! That's great DD is coming to visit!!

BUS, CONGRATS!! Another 2lbs is awesome!!! Keep up the great work! A knot? How'd that happen? Hope all is well. Let us know.

FILLISE, okay, this Jew doesn't have a clue what a DCE is!

MUSIC, sorry to hear about the sickies in the house and you bone density. My girlfriend has the same trouble with her bones and just also found out she has calcium deposits on her hips-she's only 46. I hope the supplements as well as the exercise will help you from losing anymore.

Gotta run, will try my best to get a recipe or two on here later today.

Have a great day!!!

Debbie
194/120/129
SB since 3/22/00
Reached goal 6/10/01

Good morning everyone

I didn't post yesterday for WIW as, per usual, I had no losses to report. But to-day when I got on the scale I was down 1/2 pound to 194 1/2. The first time I hit 195 was on 26th September so it has taken me about 10 weeks to lose half a pound. But, as we would all agree, it is better than gaining. :p

Zanne - Thanks for thinking of me with the info about the chocolate. The Lindt 70% cocoa is the one I usually buy. It's the only one I have seen. They also sell it in Sears. My friend who works in Sears picked up some the other day that was 80% cocoa. It tasted much stronger than the other one, actually rather yucky so I'll be sticking to the 70%. I haven't eaten much of it lately but like to have some around for those occasions when I need something to nibble on.

BOB - Wish you luck with the GTT.

Fruitloupe - Just wanted to let you know that you are in my thoughts in your endeavors to have a family. I'm glad to see that you have lots of support from others on this board who have personal experience with the fertility/adoption process.

Have to run. Have a bit of shopping to do before going to work this afternoon. Also thinking about going out for lunch.

Bye for now.

Marie.

Debelli--DCE = Director of Christian Education.
Good luck on the garage sale. Hope you make tons of $$$. After all that work you should, just for the hourly wages you deserve setting it all up.

Fillise. Merci. L'examen est la semaine prochaine à Mercredi. (the test is next week, on Wednesday.)

Fruit--Moses was adopted; so was Samuel--by Eli. And Jesus, by Joseph. Just to name a few.

I have a meeting tonight. That will make the 4th night in a row where my DH and I will not have dinner tog. He has been out 2 evenings, and I will have been out 2. We will get to see each other tomorrow night when we take our 31 year old son out to celebrate his Birthday, which was Tues. I hope next week is more sane.

Gotta go.

FRUIT - I did a quick internet search and found this site. It has lots of info: http://www.holtintl.org/tax.shtml. Looks like in January the amount raises to $10,000 for all eligible adoptions. The nice thing is that it comes right off your tax liability, i.e. if you owe $5,000 in taxes and have $2,000 in eligible adoption-related expenses, you would only pay $3,000 in taxes. And it appears if you paid more in adoption expenses than you owe in taxes, you can carry the credit forward as many as 5 years until you use the entire $10,000. This is really wonderful. I hope that it makes a difference in helping people who couldn't adopt because of the expense to be able to now!

There are more sites on the web to look at, but this seemed to explain it in English. Also, make sure you have current info as the Bill was signed by Pres. Bush in June or July. And, of course, consult someone knowledgeable on the subject, such as an attorney or CPA. Good Luck!!!!

Email me or do a PM anytime!

Karen

We made it back from the dr. He gave DS some anti-inflammatory meds and said if he has not gone down in a couple weeks for him to go see an orthopedic dr. He did xrays and said it seems too hard for a cyst ...so really we don't know much more than we did.

Cya all later,

Debbie :))

just a quick note to let everyone know I LOST 2 MORE POUNDS!!!!!
my fasting blood sugars continue to be great as i continue to lose the weight. so far 22 pounds since the end of september when i found this incredible WOE! i do feel so much better and as i have heard from many but never really appreciated " nothing tastes as good as thin feels" well i am a far cry from thin but going down a size feels pretty darn good!
hi to all, have a great weekend

chris

EVENING EVERY BUDDY!!!

Can't stay, SURVIVOR is on ...Just wanted to leave this gif for GATOR ...Hope you pass your test...

HELLO EVERYONE....I'll check in later after all the competition is over...

BOB

Just got home from the elementary school holiday concert- ds in chorus and select choir. Oh my gawd- as bob says- all you teachers out there are saints! Actually, most of it was really cute but I think they should do a pitch hearing check on any kid that wants to play violin! The last chorus piece required "volunteers" from the audience and wouldn't ya know it, I got volunteered to get up on stage to do the "Reindeer Twist". Felt pretty silly, but real glad my butt wasn't as big as it was 4 months ago! Kids particularly loved that song.

I think I'm getting sick, major exercise today just to walk across the room. I slept in instead of getting up and lifting, swore I would do it in the afternoon after work, but came home and curled up in bed instead. Very un-me. Did manage a run before work, but it was pretty unspectacular.

Bob- Good luck on the GTT- hate those, the flavor choices always leave something to be desired.

Gator- Etudez! Etudez! et bon chance!

Frog- Did kitty come back? It's so embarassing to have to call the vet and say you can't find the animal!

Hi everyone else- I'm off to watch ER then pass out.

mel

BOB--Thanks for the gif. I downloaded it, so you'll see it sometime soon. Maybe on a post where I talk about a menu I cooked up. In fact, we are having a party here Sunday afternoon, evening. That would be a good time to post it, as I'm a-cookin'.

Meliris--Merci. Tout les rondez-vous pour cette semaine sont fini. Alors, maintnant je puis etudier pour l'examen le Mercredi prochain.

I hope this says: All the meetings for this week are over. So now I can study for the test next Wednesday. You Canucks can correct my French, hopefully, if you happen to know that language.

Gotta hit the hay.

Well, good news on the kitty front! All her test were negative and she was wonderful at the vet. They showed me how to clip her nails. Doctor estimated that she is about 3 years old. With that news I purchased her a litter box, food bowls and cat toys. I think Dixie is happy about that too. Last night we were all in the chair and 1/2 together watching t.v. I told DH that kitty had been allowed in the house and he rather teasingly said "No." Then I told him about how good she had been and we decided to take it one day at a time. Later last night I called him and told him about the 3 of us together on the chair, he loved it. If they snuggle up with him tonight when they get home he will be in heaven! This morning when I woke up I had the dog and the cat on the bed with me! :D I told the vet that after spending $150.00 on the vet visit alone that she was now our cat! Now for a name!

Went to the gym last night and ran on the TM :rolleyes: for 4.5 miles. Will have a long run tomorrow!

Supposed to get my hair cut today, go to the vet for Dixie, stop off at the office and meet a friend for coffee. Therefore, I gotta go get BUSY!

Happy Friday!

HOLDIDAY QUESTION OF THE DAY
"What is the one thing you've always wanted to do during the holiday season, but you haven't done yet?"

For me that would be going to see "The Nutcracker." I have never seen the ballet and have always wanted too. Next week I am going to a holiday ballet but not that one. Maybe next year.

Peace,
FROG

190/152.5/130

HidieHo all!!

Wrote a post last night and lost it, very annoying! I was tired and just didn't do it right. Had a busy day, nursing home, errands and Habitat meeting last night.

I thought I had all my Christmas shopping done, then I added up and to keep things fairly even I have to get two more small gifts for dd and dil. Dd has a calculator in her head and would feel slighted that she got $10 less than anyone else. Dil could care less.

Am doing wash and cleaning up here today. Finished my cards last night, still have a couple of things to wrap.

Wednesday night is annual Christmas party for choir, I'll have to think of something legal to take.

FROG - Glad no-name kitty has a clean bill of health. We have three cats, one indoor/outdoor, one outdoor and one indoor. The indoor cat is mine and is the most affectionate, he is a wonderful companion. As I sit he's jumping up to sit with me. When I stitch he knows he can't be in my lap so lies on the footrest. He's about 13 and is hale and hearty. Cats can live to a ripe old age.

DEBELLI - You couldn't pay me to have a yard sale. I had three when I moved from Milford, they were hard work and loooooong. Of course, I did sell a lot of stuff. I had too much stuff!!

I don't hear the washer, so I guess it's time to throw things in the dryer and put in another load of wash.

Will try to check in later. I have been feeling pretty good and have to remember not to get cocky and overdo. I just like to do things!!

Take care. Shirley

GOOD FRIDAY MORNING!:wave:

Thought I better get on here and do a quickie before you all think I up and died on you-this is going to be really quick, so bare with me.

Got in a walk of only 3.5 miles-didn't feel like going, was tired.

Working on getting the stuff for the garage sale tomorrow done-still a ton to do but now I have to stop and get in the shower to get some things done before I have to p/u Michael and then Lauren at school. I'll get up extra early tomorrow and finnish, so I hope.

Scale is up 1.5lbs today-ate like a hog yesterday, all SB LEGAL but too much and WAY too much fat. Made some energy bars, with nuts-they were to die for, I ate 7 squares:eek: I easily must of had over 100 grams of fat yesterdayy:eek: :eek: Also had well over 50 grams of fiber:eek: which hasn't taken effect YET, but seems to be working it's way down the chute-maybe that's where those 1.5lbs are, in the chute. Better today, had 1 square and got rid of the rest-all gone now; thank goodness.

Sorry I don't have time to respond to you all today-I'm sure you understand. After tomorrow, I'll be back to normal (some would debate that) and will be back to posting as usual and will try to respond to those I have missed.

Have a wonderful weekend-oye, have to run to the potty!:rolleyes:

Debbie
194/121.5(maybe less in a few minute)/129
SB since 3/22/00
Reached goal 6/10/01

Drenching rain here for the last two days- can't get the dog to go out voluntarily, finally pushed here out for a few minutes. Running is out of the question, so I did my indoor workouts, and Cleo is getting fat and lazy. I once saw a dog on TV (Letterman?) run on a treadmill...hmmm. Just finished a heavy duty weight workout and am the human puddle.

A large handfull of extra vitamins seems to be holding at bay whatever bug tried to bite me yesterday, so I'll repeat the dosage today and hope for the best. Today's excitement is trying to decide if I have the guts (or lack of a gut) to wear the dress I bought for tomorrow night's party. It's VERY low-cut- kinda like Frog's Elvira costume from Halloween without the wig. I don't want my boobs to be the main topic of discussion, but I do like the dress:dizzy: I was hoping to have about 5 more pounds off before I wore it, but can't see how that's gonna happen between now and tomorrow nite:D Boy these last 10-15 pounds move slow. I'm up 1.5 from my Wednesday low, but that was to good to be true anyway!

Gotta go wrap Hannukah presents for my family who we see tomorrow afternoon- this celebrating 2 holidays is a bit much!

mel

I’m so glad its FRIDAY!!

I’m still hanging in there at the 144 mark. I’m hoping to see more gone by next week. I am going to try my hardest to keep up the water and exercise because I think that is what will get me where I want to be! I would like to see a trend of losing at least ½ lb/week (more would be nicer of course!)

I did a BIG thing yesterday – I got a totally new hairdo. Now, if you all have seen pictures of Debbie, then you can thicken it and curl it just a little more and turn it brown and you have an idea of what my MOP is – well before last night anyway!! I went to one of those really good stylists (really pricey too) and told her to just do what needed to be done – I was sick of looking in the mirror and seeing nothing but BIG HAIR!! She spent 1 ½ hours on me. There was so much hair on the floor when she got done, it was unbelievable that I still had plenty on my head! She layered it really good – I mean really good!! She thinned it and gave me a whole new shape and taught me how to manage it! It took me a lot longer than I would like to get it to look right this morning, but I’ll get quicker with time.

Guess what else she did to me ----- I was getting a conditioning treatment and she offered to wax my eyebrows while I was just lying there with my head in the sink! I’ve never had that done before, so I asked if it would hurt first, but then I let her do it. It kinda stung a little, but WOW – what a difference. My whole face looks different because my eyes really stand out now! So between the new do and waxing, I am looking much different, and I hope better today.

BusDeb – thanks for the kind words. Hope everything goes well with the ds.

Deb – I don’t envy you at all. I’ve had my share of yard sales and they are exausting!!! I hope you do well!!

Mel – glad the vitamins seemed to work – hope they can keep the bugs away!! About the dress, if you like it and it fits – WEAR IT GIRL – go for it!!

Sef – now don’t you go and overdo it again. I hope to see you post about a very restful day before too long!!

Frog – I wish my DH would let me have a kitty. I love them, but he hates them with a passion!! Oh well, glad kitty found a good loving home.

Gotta run,
Have a great weekend everyone!!
tv

I can't believe how long it has been since I managed to post anything on this board. But then it has been awhile since I have been home long enough to do anything. I feel like I walk in and out of the door just to change which bag I am carrying- either my work bag or the gym one. And I come home at night and fall into bed.

I have been reading everyone's post and know that I am not the only one who is in super productive mode. I can't believe that Deb is planning to have yard sale tomorrow- Deb more power to you!!!

I also notice that the pounds are slowly coming off for others and I can join that club. It seems sometimes, the harder I work that less I lose.

I have set a goal for the weekend. I want to get a handle on the
Christmas stuff and maybe even make my house look presentable. Boy I guess I have a lot to do this weekend.

Well, I wish each of you a wonderful and relaxing Saturday.
Laurie

Frog--My answer to your question of the day:
I have always wanted to go to the program Disney has for the holidays, where there is a choir and other "disney stuff." However, there are MOBs of people trying to see, and anything Disney costs a ton. So we have not gone. We were going to go this year because last year a man in our church that works at Disney was going to get us tickets so we could get reserved seats. But, he lost his job there, so it didn't happen. We hate to fight crowds so much that I don't know if we will ever go.

Good news on your new kitty! When they are that age you can tell by then if they are going to be a sociable cat or not. So, congratulations on your new family member. There was a no-name cat in the movie "Breakfast at Tiffany's." It was a orange tabby cat and Holly Golightly called it "Cat."

Deb--good luck on the garage sale today. I am going to practice my golf today by hitting some golf balls this morning.

Outback sounds OK. We ate at an Outback last time. I do remember SolShine talking about Uncle Jones' BBQ, which did sound yummy. "Nothin' mo better!" Right, SolShine?

Morning ladies!

How are ya?! I'm still kicking! I'm stuck on the scale though - but I have to admit - I had a daiqueri yesterday! UGH! DON'T FUSS! You have to listen to MEL and what she says about teachers! I'm about to lose it right now at school!! I really NEEDED a drink last night!

MEL: I had a mother stay with my class just for an hour while we had our Thanksgiving Faculty Dinner at school and when I got back she told me that I deserved a medal! This year is the worst class i've ever had - they are absolutely horrid! I told her - don't get me a medal - a gift certificate to the daq. shop where I hang out would be sufficient!! HAHA!

MUSIC: I hear you about the poor/unwanted kids. It is so depressing. I've got 2 kids in my class that are poorer than dirt and all the kids in both families are special ed - including the parents - and one family has 6 kids and the other has 7 kids. In both of the families, none of the parents work because they can't - they can't read, etc. ( we know what they do know how to do though!) I'm sure rubbers cost less than the cigaretts and beer they buy though! It's a shame they don't invest in that!! makes me sick! cause who's paying for those kids - us - the taxpayer! One of those kids in my class is supposed to be in 3rd grade (I teach 1st) she has missed over 50 days of school each year because of lice. She still doesn't know her ABC's - what they look like or the sounds they make! That's how pitiful they are - and you know - we've reported them to the police, OCS, etc. and nothing happens - those kids would be better off in a decent home! It's horrible! My luck - if I did have kids, I'd give em a good lick for something that they did and I'd get reported!!! And - they'd take the kid away - but they won't touch these families! The other one has running water at his house SOMETIMES! isn't that horrible!? Ok - enough of that crap!! I HEAR YA ABOUT NEGLECTED KIDS - BURNS ME UP!:mad:

GATOR: I hope to check out some of those sites you sent me today. Good luck on your test! I know a little french myself - but it's cajun french - pretty much the same though! i'm not fluent but I can pick out bits and pieces. My hubbys family speaks is all the time.

KAREN: I'll check out that info you sent me too! Thanks again!


Well, I've got to run. I'm baking pumpkin bread for christmas gifts today. That's what I'm giving to all of my friends that I work with. The numbers get higher every year and it seems that the funds don't!! So, I'm going to be Betty Crocker today!! Talk to you later!

Missy

A beautiful day here today! After I finish Playing on the computer, I'm going to pot some paperwhite bulbs for all my ?sunday School teachers as a Christmas present.

Deb---DCE is Director of Christian Education. I am adminsitering all the educational programs at my church. The jury is still out on whether this can be done is only 15-20 hours a week. Good luck with your yard sale! I'll look forward to hearing how it goes.

Frog--You will enjoy for new cat. I asked Miss Belle and she said that Miss Kitty is a fine name. Am I remembering correctly that that is how your referred to her in other posts?

BigK--You go girl! It's a wonderful feeling--especially when you are shrinking through the holidays when everyone else is expanding! I'm putting a recipe on the board in a few minutes that is a good, entirely legal, holiday treat.

Missy--Too bad about those kids in your class. Last night I went to a party with a group of friends. Instead of exchanging presents with each other, we take the money we would have used to buy presents, put it in a pot and take the whole amount to Walmart where we shop for a family we have adopted from the Salvation Army. Our family this year has three kids. We had $450.00 dollars and at Walmart that goes a very long way. We got lots of clothes and, of course, toys. One of my friends who has a 10 year old son who no longer believes in SC--but decided that SC does exist because hme helped make the magic happen for these kids. It was kind of sweet.

Gator--The last time I went to Disney World was at Christmas and it was fabulous! I especially liked the part where I was laying out by the pool on December 23rd! Of course it was more than 20 years ago and I was SKINNY then!

Laurie--It is good to hear from you. Just keep doing what you need to be doing and the weight will eventually come off. Trust me--I get in those periods too. The trick is not to get discouraged and stop eating OP. That's what I did and now I'm paying for it.

TV--You are right about the waxing. It makes all the difference in the world! I get my eyebrows done everytime I have my hair cut--I'm going Monday in fact. It really opens up your face. It hurts--but only for a brief moment. Though I cannot imagine getting more delicate areas of one's body waxed--if you know what I mean!:o

Mel--You will be stunning in that dress! Flaunt it girlfriend!

BOB--good luck with the glucose test. No football--what do we do this weekend?

Liz--Are you lurking? I'm thinking about you!

VIV?????? I miss hearing from you?

Sparkle--same goes for you!

Ok I had a good Op day yesterday. My fridge is full of half-eaten party foods (all OP) that I've taken to events this week. I think tonight I'm going to wrap presents and call a couple of friends to come over for low key noshing.

Susan

Hey y'all! Back from my Saturday run. Ran it this time with DH. Didn't do nearly the miles that I was scheduled for this week. TIRED of running! Wish today had been race day. Great weather here and felt pretty good. Went for only 8 but my pace was much quicker than my usual.

Going to a Christmas party tonight with a former chic, Belinda Wannabe. DH wasn't interested in going. Doesn't believe he knows the hosts well enough to feel comfortable. :rolleyes: Whatever.

DH is struggling a bit with the house cat idea. I can never quite figure him out. He doesn't mind if she comes in, just doesn't want her staying in all the time. He especially hates the thought of the litter box. And it didn't help this morning that she peed on the bathmat rather than her litter box! :eek: She used it yesterday and I immediately cleaned it out, but not today. Anyone have any advice for that? Anyway, other than the peeing on the bath mat "thing" she's been absolutely terrific! It was really sweet, while we were "dicussing" the options with the indoor/outdoor situation, the cat jumped up beside him on the couch and went to sleep! :lol: Such a bad cat! And then whenever she gets a chance to shoot out the door she does, making me think she'd really rather be outside. Who Knows? We may have decided on Stormy for the name, suits her storm cloud colored fur AND the start to the room and board situation here! :D I'm sure we'll get something sorted out. Why do men LIKE to say '"NO?" :devil:

Time to go hop in the shower and rinse the sweat off this bod.

BTW DEB Hope you had a successful yard sale. Got your email, Jan 5 plans are great!

PEACE,
Frog

190/152.5/130

Fillise--If you were in Fla right now you could lay by the pool and even go for a swim, it is that warm. We have not had our AC on because "you just don't have your AC on in Dec. But we actually are going to turn it on tomorrow because we are having a party for about 20 people. It is in the 80's. here in the daytime.

And what do we do now that football is over? Why, root for our basketball team, of course! It's great watching Billyball, and the Gators are doing very well so far this year. We went up to Gainesville last week and watched them beat Mich. State, the team that beat them in the NCAA finals a couple years ago.

Well, I'm gonna run and check out some other web sites before I hit the hay.

Missy--This post is for you. Here is a present--an LSU avitar. Use it if you want.

Hey ladies!

Just popping in to say hello!

GATOR: Thanks so much! I loaded it up and hopefully I'll see it when I post this time - if not - I'll have to play with it some more I guess! Thanks again!

Well, I'll talk to you later!

Missy

Ok that didn't work - so let's try this!

AFTERNOON EVERY BUDDY!!! :D



GATOR BILLYBALL ??? I swear he looks just like EDDIE MUNSTER :lol: Does anyone else agree with me???
As for the air conditioning I have brrrrrrrrr.............mine on FIFTY WEEKS a year...the other two I use the heat...that's really all we need heat over here on the SW COAST OF FLA.... ;)

Finished all my Christmas shopping OFFICIALLY this afternoon...now all I have to do is wrap it!
Was at the mall when it opened to get that part of it over with.
Only had one other stop to make and then I was home by 1:30, let the girls out of their "holster".....on with the house dress so EVERYTHING cold hang out!! :lol:

Board is awfully quiet.....WHERE IS EVERYONE?????

I'm off to start my wrapping....trying to watch everything I've taped this week so I can begin again...

BOB

Hye Y'All!

Was I missed? I sure missed the board. I feel like I was on a vacation and I didn't even get to go anywhere! No vacation here, that's for sure.

The garage sale stunk-o. I waited and waited until we were suppose to have good weather and wouldn't you know it, it sprinkles on and off. Just my luck! Oh well, can't brood over it, doesn't help anything anyhow. I took 6 big boxes filled with stuff yesterday along with loose odds and ends and today another 4 boxes along with more odds and ends. Eli is going to bring me some more boxes and then that will be it. Not too much stuff left to get rid off and boy, let me tell you, the patio is looking like a patio again! It's like a big burden is lifted when you get rid of all this crap!!! I'll be thrilled when it's all gone.

Other than working on this for the past few days, not much has been happening. Got in my 4.5 miles today, no great times, but it felt good to do something besides going through crap;)

Have been very lax in drinking my water the last few days, but vow to do better starting tomorrow. Also, ate way too much fat the last few days-it was like my body was craving it-weird! PB&J were in over abundance for me this weekend:eek:

Scale was at 120.5 this morning, can't complain and a bit surprised considering that I've over eaten my quota these past days (more days than I care to think about). Seems when I don't journal I overstep my calorie boundries. Back to normal tomorrow. May be a good day on the scale if my jumping on a few minutes ago is any indication-less than this morning. Then again, if I probably would drink some water and hydrate myself, I'd see the normal number, with my luck, this is a dehydration number!:eek:

I haven't had time to run through the board for the last few days, so I hope that you don't mind that I start anew from here on. If you posted a question to me that I have yet to answer, please know I'm not ignoring it, just that I haven't seen it, so please, ask again. I promise to answer anything posted after this post gets on.

ANGELA, no picture on the PHOTO ALBUM BOARD. Try again to post it, please :) If you continue to have trouble, please let me know and I will try to help.

MEL, I haven't forgotten your picture-you know I've been crazy with this G sale, but I PROMISE I will get it done-hopefully tonight :)

TO EVERYONE ELSE I hope you all had a wonderful weekend! I miss being "in touch" with you all like this, but I know you understand {HUGS}.

I have a really busy day tomorrow. Lauren needs to get to school very early for a meeting and then she's staying late as well. Have many errands to run and then Eli is having his store Xmas party tomorrow night-AFTER the store closes, after 11pm-not really looking forward to it since that's WAY AFTER MY BEDTIME, but it's the only time they could do it and be able for everyone to participate in the festivities. I'm taking food straight from the oven to the store-can't imagine eating that late-I won't, but they are. Making my hummus-I was told not to come without it. Reminds me, have to get pita bread on my list of things to do!:rolleyes: Anyhow, I just mention this only because if I don't get on too much in the day time, you'll understand that I'm running around town.

Well, that's it for me, for now. I'll have the new board up and running tomorrow morning. Please remember, it's MOTIVATIONAL MONDAY TOMORROW so if you have a good quotes, stories or words of wisdom you'd like to share with the board, please, try to post them tomorrow.

Have a great evening!

Debbie
194/120.5/129
SB since 3/22/00
Reached goal 6/10/01

HidieHo all!!

We gave our conata in church today. It was wonderful! A pleasure to particiate in it. Of course there was a standing ovation. The little kids who were lousy in rehearsal hit their mark perfectly today.

Rest of day was restful. We discussed plans for our visitors. Dil's parents and bro are coming from Ohio, my dd from MD and a friend of gd from TX. Thank God for blowup mattresses!! Watched ice skating and read paper, that has been the extent of my day.

Tomorrow it's back to reality.

Hope all is well.

Take care sef

It's a NEW WEEK and the NEW WEEKLY BOARD IS UP AND RUNNING!! Here's the link to the new board:


http://64.119.161.199/forum/showthread.php?threadid=11756

See you there!!!:D