Weight Watchers - Keeping the WW bus wheels going!

Hi All!

Well -- I'm on the Weight Watchers bus, kinda, sorta, sometimes! I really need the boost and the kick in the pants to keep going! I don't know what it is! I've aged, I'm older, I'm comfortable -- and not screaming to get into those smaller sizes. Maybe I'm a bit afraid of "being" smaller. It could be my work schedule that isn't helping, or it could be a combination of many things!

I know that I have to keep drinking my water (been off that for a couple of weeks and NOT consistent at all -- shows on the scale I tell you!). I've re-gained about 2 pounds so in my measly minus 5 a month, that's a HUGE thing to me!

What's keeping your mojo going????? Anyone have any tips and ideas?

Hi Elan,
How is life in Alberta? I imagine it just keeps on getting busier and busier.
I find that I have more time since moving away from Calgary. I even get me time now. That is a great concept. I don't know that I enjoy exercise but I know I have to do it.
For me it is walking and running. I find if I just go out and do it it works. It is just like brushing my teeth every day. Also getting all my water in during the day before I even feel thirsty. I have heard people say they can't have a cup of coffee until they drink their glass of water.
I also find planning meals each day works to help me stay on track.
I hope that you have a great day.

I joined Curves Wednesday night, worked out Thursday am, created new flower beds in my backyard, weeded flower beds along the front of the house that hadn't been weeded yet this year, turned mulch and spread new mulch.

I want to get back to the gym but I am too sore! I got all that done and then realized I had pushed myself well past muscle fatigue and still had to clean up the mess. I AM A CITY MOUSE! What was I thinking starting the garden?!?

I'd tell you more but it hurts to type- bad for a professional writer!!!

How's everyone else doing?

Hey ladies! Good to see you all here.
Elan, Ann and Lafayette, I made my WW 10% goal yesterday! It was so nice to finally get to that goal.
I need to figure out ways to continue this journey and not backslide. I seem to have losses and then backslide and have gains, I don't want to do that again.
:wave:

Congrats, Linda! That's awesome!

How is the gym working out for you (pardon the expression!)?

I've decided that, even if I have to chomp a bottle of ibuprofen, I'm heading to the gym tomorrow. I bought all these cute workout clothes and I've only be able to wear one outfit! Dang!!!

Lafayette, The gym was good until I got sick the end of last week. I've not been back since Wednesday. But, I am not giving up on it, this is just a delay and people do get sick, sadly. I had this cold/cough thing and it's turned into the worst case of laryngitis I've ever had. I've had almost no voice at all since Saturday. I took a "vow of silence" for today to give my throat a rest, but last time I tested things, still no voice. If I'm not better by tomorrow, I guess I'll call the doctor's office and see if they can help at all. But, from what I read on line, there is little they can do and resting/not speaking is best.
I actually feel almost energetic enough to go to the gym and do a small amount of cardio, but I kind of felt that I could be exposing people to germs and that while I am trying really hard to heal myself, it might not be a good thing to take energy away from that area of my body that has issues? So hard to know what is best to do.
Aside from that, I'm staying on program, I'm journaling and eating very healthy at least.

Linda- It's usually suggested that you stay out of the gym while sick and even give yourself a few days after that to get back your strength. I went to the gym too soon after a bad head cold and knew immediately that the fatigue I was experiencing was more than just being out of shape. I hope you're putting your feet up, too!

Elan- you never answered the question from the other thread- would you go out with your date again?

Hey Lafayette...he did contact me and said that it was a mistake and that he never knew so many of this friends would be there -- he would like another chance. We'll see. I won't rule it out as he was a nice guy.

Work is getting me down -- it's been constant eating eating eating. I am a stress eater and we have a new boss that NO ONE wanted to have the job -- but in the infinite wisdom (or lack thereof) of upper management we are stuck with this woman. She is always right (though most of the time she is wrong), she is very combative. She is a very large woman and has self-esteem issues as well. Does not have control in her home and tries to control her co-workers. I was physically ill yesterday just thinking that I have to work with this woman. I am really trying hard not to stuff my face...but it's not working. I get up from my desk (she sits beside me) to go and get water....and I stew about it. I am only being productive as far as it goes to stuffing my face.

HELP!!!

That is difficult Elan. It is hard when you have a boss who thinks they are alwyas right. They don't realize that just because you think you are right, doesn't mean they are. It is too bad with all the jobs currently in Alberta she can't move to a new job. It is horrible it makes you physically ill. I hope you have a great weekend.

Elan, Sorry about the job thing. I'd secretly plot my vengeance, by leaving. I've work on my resume' and start looking, focusing my energy on the job search vs. this hateful woman. A few years ago, my husband had a boss hired over him that made not only him, but our entire family miserable. This man "won" by crushing people, not by just doing it better than anyone else and seemed to take great joy in it. He also didn't recognize the boundaries of work/home and even called my husband about work matter on Christmas day on his cellphone while we were headed up to see my mom and dad in the car. He ruined our Christmas. Then, on New Year's, my husband worked all day as this man sent him e-mail after e-mail demanding various reports and things that just HAD to be ready by the next day. My husband, out of stress, nearly had a heart attack and finally quit this job even though he had no other job as the stress was too much for him. I was then the one under stress with an unemployed husband and bills to pay. Those were scary times and times where my weight was all accumulating. I had been going to WW meetings and had to stop as we couldn't afford it, times were really hard.
Now, I can look upon that time with a different perspective that I can share with you. Do not allow food to take over as what comforts you during horrible times. Remember that a strong body is a fighting body. Do something positive vs. allowing this person to walk all over you. If it's a large company, apply for something else within the company, if it's small make your plans and move on. But, don't allow another person to make your life miserable, it is not worth it!
As for me, I went to the gym for the first time in over a week yesterday, it felt good. I toned down my workout and didn't over-do things. I feel good today and am not sore!
We are going up to our family cabin today and will be staying overnight one night. I'm going to try to be on program as best I can! I will try to go out on our paddleboat for exercise, which I totally enjoy.

I got back to the gym last night and wow! It is so hard to get that little 30 minute work out into my schedule right now... but I did it!

Elan- Do you have someone else at your company who you can discuss your boss's behavior with? I had a boss like this and I eventually quit but not before making sure she got training on how to manage people. I started a whole company program to train employees, support internal promotions, etc. and then they promoted someone else. Now I make more money and love my job but it was a double kick to the teeth at the time... I can beat her up for you if you give me afew more months at the gym ;) j/k, even chubby I'm not very intimidating... darn! Good luck!

What a great idea, Lafayette! I'll get to work at the gym too and then we'll both show up there and take care of this problem for Elan!!!
At any rate, I go to my meeting and get weighed in a little over an hour. I'm nervous. I wasn't exactly an angel with my eating over the weekend and by not feeling awfully well, I have only been to the gym once this week.

I've got great news!!!! I am down!!!!!
I haven't gone to a meeting for weeks -- but I have been faithfully drinking my water and of course walking my butt off (with a couple of "dates" hee hee). It's funny how your eating perspective is when you are dating. Meantime I am working hard on losing what I've got and taking one day at a time.
It's been tough..the water that is, but I am making every effort. I only have 1 cup of coffee a day, so that helps HUGE!
Hope you all are doing well! I apologize for not being in here more. It has been a very busy couple of weeks! Summer is here and the outdoors calls -- hard to stick around a computer!
Miss you all!

Way to go Elan, not only are you losing but you are living life too. Yeah for you.
Take Care
Ann

Elan, great news! Are the dates with that same guy or someone different?
I remember my eating was very different when I was dating as well. I think I wanted to promote the image that I "ate like a bird" or something. I also ordered inexpensively if my date was paying the bill as I always worried about spending too much of their money.
Things, this week, are a bit "iffy" for me here as I am on vacation up at our cabin on a lake. I have a hard time staying on track up here, but I am not giving up!

Will power dust...rain down on me!

Yes...funny how the "dating" changes you whole attitude about everything. One -- tv hasn't been on all week - have been out and about walking. Two -- feel attractive, more so that I did last month (so it's the whole brain/mindset thing going on). Three -- not worrying so much about what goes in my mouth (moderation). Four -- drinking my water!

One day at a time -- I think this month will be a good one. I am getting more exercise in. I went on a 2nd date tonight with the same guy...we went walking and talking. He's not the one for me -- nice fellow and all, but not my type. He has however motivated me to keep working at getting this weight off. Never once did he say anything negative and I know that he is attracted to me. It's just not a good fit you know?

Hope that everyone is doing ok. Holidays/vacations are a tough time. We have the Calgary Stampede here. Every corner has a free Stampede breakfast of sausage and eggs...goes for 10 days. I did have my annual corn dog, but stayed away from all the rest of the stuff. Happy about that. Hard to really stay motivated when you are out having fun. Seems like punishment to force yourself to have "salads" when the rest of the group is having a good time.

Elan, it does sometimes seem like punishment to have salads when the rest of the group is having a good time, but just think of the rewards! You'll be looking fantastic and the others won't be and then they will say something like "How does she do it?"
Lately, a few people have actually noticed my weight loss and have made comments and have asked how much I've lost and things like that. I feel so great when that happens and it inspires me to continue.
Thank goodness it is summertime and salads are more tempting in hot weather.

Thanks Linda for putting a different twist on it! You are absolutely right. I think I need to remember that "Nothing tastes as good as being thin feels!"

I've been to the gym three times this week! I have plans to head back tomorrow morning, too! Yippee!

Watch out for the dating diet- I was thin while "hunting" but all those wonderful dates with my future husband where we ordered appetizers, drinks and desserts just to extend the evening landed me here! Heck, I had fun getting here, though!

Milwaukee is a city chock full of summer festivals. I drink water and occasionally soft pretzels or roasted corn with very little butter and sail through it. It never hurts me to do a little people watching to see the outfits I want to wear/bodies I want to have and the back-page-of-Glamour-magazine dont's for motivation... you can become the hottie everyone wants to dress like/be like!

The stampede is great to get a lot of walking in, or if you are out at bars, dancing....I think the breakfasts are the killer, as well as all the lunches put on by businesses.
Good luck and enjoy.

Elan, while I gave you great advice. I admit that the last two nights I didn't follow it myself. I blew it. So, we are all human and have to remember that.
Lafayette, I remember those days when dining out was a huge part of my relationship with my husband. Luckily, my metabolism was different then, I guess? At any rate, maybe the two of you could take long romantic walks together?
Linda

Just popping in to say good luck ladies! :)

No magic dust needed. All thats needed is a comittment to yourself, more days on then off. Remebering its a Lifestyle, which for me is... Leading a Life with Style. ;) Not allowing or giving comtrol or power to outside influences be they, people, places or things. :lol:

It works IF You work it!

Long romantic walks are often promised yet never quite materialize... my fiance is also overweight but not exactly with me on the diet or the exercise. Plus, we are both workaholics and, when we do get home early in the evenings, it's usually to do some charitable work, clean the house or collapse in exhaustion. Ah, the American Dream... work crazy hours, eat junk at drive-thrus and hope to God that 100 Calorie Snack Packs will lighten something other than your wallet.

I want to lead a life with style, too!!!

Sassy, you sure are "stylin" (a term my husband picked up from his business trips to NYC).
Lafayette, sounds like you both need to make some kind of committment to each other to eat better and take better care of yourselves. It's hard work, I know.
As for me, I went to the gym and have my weigh in later on.

Dating Update....I made a grown man cry.... EGADS!!! Was a nice guy but a little too "sensitive" for my liking. BUT...with that said...I am eating like a bird! What IS IT WITH THAT????
You girls are the BEST. I so look forward to coming here and reading your posts. Makes me feel human with all of this stuff.

Elan, I had to laugh just a bit with your post about making a grown man cry! What did you do????
As for me, I had my weigh in yesterday and was up 1.4 pounds. Oh well. I ate out three times over vacation, I had dessert. What was I to expect?
I'm looking for a truly fab WW friendly dessert that no one would know was a WW recipe, preferably something chocolate, to bring to my in-laws over the weekend. Any ideas?
I really want to impress everyone, but I'm thinking something in the 5 - 6 points range per serving would be OK and within my own flex point level to handle. We are going away, and my MIL always feeds us so well when we visit. We don't have an option as to what is served, but if I offer to bring dessert, that will at least control that one part of the meal. I can hopefully portion control and maybe bring a few low point snacks in my suitcase that will tide me over when all there is are very tempting foods on the coffee table!

Try my "creme brulee" recipe! It's best when made within 1-3 hours before dinner although I have made them the night before.

Make white chocolate sugar free fat free Jello pudding according to the pie filling instructions, pour it into 4 small ramekins right away before it sets, push 4-5 fresh raspberries into the pudding and cover gently, level the top of the pudding, sprinkle sugar (the real stuff; Splenda just burns) to coat the top and carmelize with a brulee torch (do this right away or the sugar will be absorbed into the pudding). Cover them with Saran Wrap and pop them in the fridge until you're ready to serve.

You can eat the whole thing- sugar, too- for 1 point!

No one will ever guess it's Jell-O, much less only one point! I put a few more fresh raspberries and a tiny bit of fat free Redi Whip on top when I serve it. You could even go all Martha Stewart and add a fresh mint leaf.

True diet purists could even subtly eat around the carmelized sugar... but that would be sad ;(

Good luck!

Lafayette, thanks! I'll try this, however, the desserts for the weekend are already made. My daughter ended up making two WW cookbook recipes, one is an apple tart kind of thing and the other is a brownie with dried cherries and chocolate chips in them. Both look and smell great, and they are fairly low in points.
I'm a bit worried about the weekend, though, as my MIL always really treats us quite well where food is concerned. She is the kind of person you don't "make waves" with, as the saying goes.
I hope there are some low point choices.

Hey ladies!

Remember...that disease that we have (say this really fast and no gaps between.... FATONMYTHIGHS.....) Normally I say this to my mother when she's trying to stuff me more! ha ha!

ok..making the guy cry - I was asking questions about his past relationships and how he has changed it.

Have a date next week with Engineer..nice guy...still thinking if I want to pursue this a bit more. (Cryer didn't make it to the 2nd date).

Heading out to the lake to see my daughter tomorrow...it's going to be extremely hot! The Stampede was NUTS...and there is still the weekend to go with it! It will be crazy!

Talk to you all soon!

Elan, sounds like the crying guy just needs a bit more time to heal from the last break up? Maybe he's just sensitive and might actually be someone who would be very tender and caring? Just a thought.
Hope you have a nice visit with your daughter.
I, as usual, kind of blew it over the weekend, but it could have been worse. It is so hard when you are a house guest at someone else's home. Next time, I swear I'm going to bring my own food and just put up with my MIL's aggravated attitude. I think she'd probably make some kind of cutting remark about her food not being "good enough" for us or whatever? It's truly difficult. If it were my own mom (who has sadly passed away), she would allow me to dictate what she served us all, as our relationship was always open and kind. If I said, "Mom, I really need to keep the food for this weekend low fat/WW friendly", she would then ask me what would be appropriate to serve, etc. However, at my MIL's house, she is a very good cook (not that my mom wasn't) and loves to entertain. We always get great things there, but not always the best choices. She would not take kindly to being "told" what to serve. I try to get around some of it by offering to bring desserts, at least, which helps.

I have to be honest... Cryers scare me! I never know what to say when someone I don't know very well- male or female- starts to cry, especially when it's that deep sobbing where they can't talk to tell you what's wrong. Since I have absolutely no poker face, I'm pretty sure my look of extreme discomfort once I've determined it's not a medical emergency doesn't make them feel better either!

On a similar subject, I've been eating very poorly (understatement of the year). My grandma has been very sick and she died Sunday morning. My siblings and I are doing fine but my mom and her siblings are pretty devastated. (Lots of crying but I know them so it's not so bad) I know I need to take care of myself, but coffee, cigarettes, donuts and chocolate are EVERYWHERE! I just ran out to buy healthy snacks so I have an alternative. I haven't darkened the door of the gym for a week either so I have plans to be back on that horse AGAIN this weekend. And forget the scale!

Lafayette, so sorry about your grandma, I know what it's like. I hope you can eat healthy and get back to the gym soon.
I wasn't not a good girl last night, but today is another day. I have to recognize that I am in this for life and there will be many weeks of gains that will be offset by weeks of losses. Vacations, visits, dinners out and things like that are all part of life. I could have made better choices last night, though.

Thanks, Linda!

The healthy snacks haven't gone over so well but at least I tried! I'm more worried about the fact that I've been smoking the occasional cigarette (maybe 6 total in the past week). I quit almost two years ago and it's too easy to think of the cigarettes as a pre-wedding diet, even though I know there's no guarantee replacing snacks with cigarettes will actually help me shed the pounds I've gained. I just can't shake the correlation- when I smoked, I was a size 4, now I'm a size 14 and growing!

Lafayette, I don't know what to say. Smoking damages your body in different ways from being overweight. I know you have lots going on, but is this really what you want to do? Think carefully.
But, I'm bad off too. I went to my meeting and I knew I'd gained and got on the scale anyway. I gained 2.4 pounds and I am so bummed out about it. So, we're both not doing well right now.
I think mine might be water weight? But, I was not awfully good over the weekend. I have to regain control.

Ladies, I'm sorry its been so tough for you as of late... Just keep telling yourselves...

And this too shall pass.

Life really is like a roller-coaster... One minute your up the next your down.

Wishing you both nothing but the very best this life has to offer. :)

sassy

Thanks, Sassy, life and my weight are like roller coasters, up and down!
I'll get the down part right, I know I will!
I had a great day on program yesterday and started today off going to the gym at 6:30 am. I'm determined to be back on track.
I wish I could just be better at all of this, but I am human.

Layfayette!!! DROP THAT CIGARETTE and turn around slowly!!!!! (((((HUGE HUGS))))) Sorry about your grandma. That is just awful. My deepest sympathies. This hard for you and also your mom losing a loved one. As for the cigarettes...please do not. I remember I started smoking about halfway through the WW journey and kept smoking for years. I was skinny yes, but I coughed and had bronchitis most times. I just substituted smoking for snacking. NOT WORTH IT!.

Linda! Glad to see that you got back on the bus! Give yourself lots of love! You WENT to the meeting. You could have stayed away and the next time you went it could have been a whole lot worse!

Sassypants!!! Girl! you are soooooooooo close! Keep us going in here will you! I am stuck in the 80's...but hey...2 more pounds and I'll be down in the 70's and THAT is VERY exciting! I have been drinking my water and really watching the number of calories that are going in. Trying to keep it down to about 1200. Found some great little ice cream treats that are only 50 cals..and low in fat, so that helps HUGE! Even less calories than the WW ones. Sorry. don't remember the name but will try again once I go shopping again!

Did the East Indian thing again today and LOVED it! Well worth every morsel. But we only do it once a month so I'm not all guilted out over it! It has been hotter than heck here...+ 30 celsius (and no....I don't know what it is in farenheit...HOT girls! HOT!!!! makes yah sweat!).

The dating has been interesting to say the least. I am discovering lots about myself and the things I am looking for. Ohyes...and btw... my ex saw me on the weekend and did the up and down looking thing. Was GREAT! ha ha!

Elan, how much have you lost so far? So, you think the X found it noticeable? Good!
I have my weigh in today and I'm thinking that I'll have a loss, at least I hope so. My weight fluctuates so very much that it is very hard to know from one hour to the next, but on my own scale I am down this morning.
Next week, by the way, we go on vacation. I'm hoping to not have a huge gain over that week, but there are some things that just seem to go along with vacation times and it's really hard to resist.
Any great coping ideas?

Sassypants!!! Girl! you are soooooooooo close! Keep us going in here will you!

:lol:

Oh Elan I'm not doing anything different or special. Just living life on life's terms. :)

I work at a wonderful restaurant ( Max & Erma's ) with wonderful people. Taking care of 3 fabulous children. Two daughters 14 and 12. And a wonderful snuggle bunny son who is 10. :) It looks like my hellacious custody battle is nearing an end, soon. And I may be reunited with my current husband whom I've been parted from for almost a year.

Thru the painful, been living the pleasures of birthday's, graduation's, holiday's, and baby showers! :) Been super motivated, slightly complacent, and on auto pilot... many times! :lol:

You never know what tomorrow will bring, so the best I can do is be is the best Me to meet it. Progress not perfection. ;)

I come to read here everyday. This thread is my first stop before I peruse the rest of the site. :) I look forward to seeing how you ladies are doing and if quested, responding. :lol: You all help me so very much in varying ways to keep true to my course. Thank You! :)

and on that note... going back into lurk mode. :D

:o

And I am obviously a conversation killer. :(

Sorry ladies. :^:

I like your conversations Sassy, you have a great outlook on life. You have been through a lot. I admire you. I wish you all the best.

No way are you a conversation killer! I never got an e-mail thread notification that there was another post here until this evening!
How's things going?
I'm up at our cabin on a lake, for vacation, but have web access on my laptop. Do forgive spelling errors as I have no spellcheck on this laptop like on my computer at home. The keyboard is tiny and I have a hard time getting used to it.
I promised myself, my buddies here at 3FC as well as my WW leader that I would journal on vacation. I wonder if that might mean that I don't have the usual gain?
We arrived and I went out and did a bit of grocery shopping, my daughter and I cooked a WW recipe for supper and I journalled. So far so good!

email's about posts? How come no one told me???? ha ha!

Sassypants.....let me tell you -- 42 times in court with the x...ARGHHH!

To answer your question Linda..I found my old book from 2005 -- I have lost to date 30 pounds since that weigh in! I almost died when I saw it... From April of this year that was 15 pounds...it's slow, but sure. I am kicking it into high gear. I do have trouble with carbs. I love carbs -- but I have vowed to drink my water and have been doing a good job. So water, water, water.

I also vowed to walk with a friend at least 3 times a week. She has a route that takes an hour and I figure it's better than sitting her on the computer.

As for dating..it's taken a back seat. I am getting so tainted! lol...all men are horn dogs I tell you. They have a ONE TRACK mind!!! And you know where THAT is!!! What happened to romance? courting? getting to know one another? Are we in such a society that it's instant gratification (ok for them...I just can't see myself doing that!). So, I am taking a breather. I have met some nice people and we are still in touch. That's all the news I have!

Cheers ladies! have a great weekend!

Elan, isn't it sad that you are expected to "put out" so soon? I think those things should take time as well. Have you tried talking with these guys or are they not worth it? Such a shame.
Did you know that you can click on "thread tools" at the top of this page and ask to get e-mail notification each time someone makes a new posting to a thread? This way, you can keep up on a conversation.
Well, today's goal for me (taking this one day at a time) is to eat pretty much on program as best I can for vacation. I will journal. I will enjoy. I am almost ready to get off line and will take out paddleboat out for a morning exercise break.

Ok girls...down to 181.5 -- last year I was 210....so it's a start. I have to get moving!!!!!! this is ridiculous! so slow

That is awesome Elan. Way to go, remember slow and steady wins the race. I would be terrified to date. I too agree some men are horn dogs. I haven't heard that description in ages.
Linda I hope you are having fun.
Sassy where are you? I hope you are doing well.
Lafayette, I hope all is well with you.
Have a great day.
Ann

Ann, are you married? It's been so long for me, dating that is, that you forgot how to behave. If anything though it really has made me think about what I should be doing with myself (i.e. taking are of myself, doing my makeup, and of course watching my weight). Seems that I forgot all about that. I'm learning though. We get so "comfortable" that we don't work on "us". Then when we work on "us" we feel guilty or selfish (at least that is how I feel).

My weight is ok -- I'm tall (5'8") so I carry my weight well. People are shocked when they hear how much I weigh. As for a goal weight, it was 147 when I was a leader -- and I was wayyyyyyyyyy too thin. The bones were sticking out like I was anorexic and 147 is not really "thin" when you think of a number. This time I am doing it a bit at a time. I worry about the saggy skin and the like, and also having to show that saggy skin eventually to a significant other -- but I'll cross that bridge when I get to it.

61 pounds.....amazing! you must feel like a totally different person! Where in Canada are you? I noticed there were a lot of Canadians around here as well as our terrific American friends. Doesn't matter where in the world you are, we all have the same issues!

So girls -- hope all is well with you. Sorry I have been absent. Work has been incredibly busy (loving it) and the social life is heating up (scaring the heck out of me!). Let us know how you are all doing.

And newbies..if you have not been here, PLEASE don't feel this is a group! We just chat about anything and everything, so if you want to join in, PLEASE DO!!!!!!

Hi Elan,
I live in Ottawa, I used to live in Calgary though. I am married. I couldn't imagine dating. Although my husband and I have dates. It is funny because I finally realized I needed me time and started to do things for me and not feel guilty about them. It is also funny you mention about the 61 pounds, for the longest time I could only focus on the amount I still have to lose, instead of what I have accomplished. I started to go to a dietician and she told me not to weigh myself until she weighs me. It is really diffiuclt not to weigh myself.
I am trusting in what she tells me for the time being. She thought i was too focused on weight. She looked at my journal and my exercising. She suggested I not eat two hours before I go to bed and just take baby steps so that I maintain this healthy lifestyle. I realize I sure am a work in progress and that she was right I do focus too much on the numbers and what I have to lose. I am glad you are back as I love reading the posts in here. I know we all get busy and just go into survival mode.
Take Care
Ann

Elan, you are doing fantastic! You are phat, not fat!
Isn't it a great feeling and when people notice and make remarks, it's such motivation to keep going!

Hey all! Well I've been focusing on my water and also making sure that I have protein with each meal. It certainly has been helping keeping the hungry monsters at bay. I am now starting to notice the shape of my body! I actually have a waist! I have a pair of pants that I just love, but I think that I need a belt now! I haven't worn a belt for years. Also (hee hee) my granny panties are getting baggy. Can you believe it? BAGGY. Strange, but oh so very exciting (ahhh the little things! :carrot: Never thought I would dance over that!)
Have a great one all!

Isn't it fun to notice a waiste and "curves" again. This kind of curve is not a fatty bulge, but a nice shape thing. I'm there too.
Happy days to all!

Well I'm sure your curves are a lot nicer than mine at the moment! But hey! It's getting there! My goal is about the 150 mark, so I have 30 more pounds to go! EGADS! that's a lot...but one step at a time!

I don't remember if it was you Linda or not -- but I find that weighing every morning has been a God-send for me. It really makes me conscious of what is going in my mouth and has been the one thing that has kept me on track.

Elan, when I am home I do weigh myself every day. This week I'm afraid is not a good one for me. I've been on vacation, away from the scale and away from the gym. We've been eating out nightly and I have lost control every day so far, so I am not reporting great successes here, sadly.
I will get back on track, but it's almost impossible here.
I did order more intelligently at a restaurant, though, last night.

1. You got back on track
2. You made wise choices in a restaurant

Just think back ... wayyyyy back....where you were 171. You didn't do either of those things! So! You came a long way.

Everyone has to have holidays where they are off a bit. It's ok. You are human and you are normal! You are probably not as bad as you thought you were. You are close to goal -- that's what makes it all the harder! Don't you DARE give up at this point or we'll have to sit on you! (trust me...I'm not a featherweight yet and it would be VERY uncomfortable!)

Hello ladies

Elan,How is that walking going? Is the dating any better? I do hope all is well with you and that you do not have to sit on Linda.
Have a great day ladies.
Ann

Hi All!

The walking is not going too great -- but I have been wearing my pedometer and I'm not doing too bad during the day! The weekends have been tough.

I have been struggling with my water (and it shows on the scale) -- not to mention I am heading into TOM -- so that will effect it as well.

The dating is going great! This being "single" is fun!

Let me know how you gals are doing!!! Have a great evening!

Hi Elan, walking is going well with me. I find that I try to beat my previous day.
I also make sure I walk at least 10,000 steps. I just walk instead of driving. It is crazy. I always drove before. It is like it is a game.
I hope you get all your water in. Start early in the morning.
That is great the dating is going well. How do you meet people.
Have fun
Have a great weekend.
Ann

Hi guys! Just stopping by. I was so busy all week, didn't get a chance to be here. I'm on vacation again and worrying, typically, about eating and how that will be.

Good morning ladies.
You will do awesome Linda. I think the journalling helps to stay on track. Have a great time.
Elan, I do hope you are doing well and having a great weekend. Keep walking, drinking water and remember to journal.
I am off for a walk right now.
Ann

Sorry I have been gone so long... I have good bad news, or bad good news, depedning how you look at it, I guess... I finally figured out why I can be "good" and still gain weight. Two weeks ago, my doctor diagnosed endometriosis (which I've had before), ovarian cysts (which I've had before) and fibriod tumors. All of which were described as how much bigger they were than softballs!!! The smallest of the five fibroids is larger than a golf ball (why do they describe everything in reference to sports objects or food?)This is bad news but the good news is I will be having a hysterectomy soon (waiting on a surgical consultation next Wednesday) and then- tada!- no more periods that make me flat-out miserable for weeks at a clip!!!

I've been reading about hysterectomies and their adverse impacts on weight, sexual function and depression. I've talked to my doctor and she feels confident that, because the science of balancing hormones chemically has advanced so significantly, I will be able to stay mentally and physically healthy with diet and exercise. Plus, my attitude toward the whole process will be a major factor in avoiding depression. I am so excited to finally achieve some "normalcy" in my life that, although it's major surgery, I just can't bring myself to feel too bad about it!

Plus, I'll have a flat stomach for my wedding in March! I keep teasing my sister that I'm getting liposuction!

I know it sounds like I'm making light of the whole situation but I have been beating myself up over the fact that I can barely last eight hours at the office and drive myself home. My immediate thought was that it's because I'm so out of shape, etc. It's such a relief to know that, while the surgery and recovery will stink, I'll feel good someday!

WooHoo!

Hi Girls!!!! I am so glad you've all been posting and keeping the WW Bus on the board! Dating has been GREAT..weight loss not so great, but apparently I am toning up. My shape is changing and my stomach is getting flatter (amazing I know because I am not really doing anything special!)

As for water...DID I TELL YOU ALL HOW MUCH I HATE WATER????? BLAH! But I am forcing myself to drink it -- thus that is probably why I have a plateau! As for my pedometer -- yes yes -- I finally figured out how to use it without the instructions -- so I'm happy about that.

Lafayette...sorry to hear about your news and happy to hear about your news if you know what I mean. A friend of mine from work had her hysterectomy and feels FABULOUS!!!! She said that she's kicking herself now that she didn't get it done years ago! So...hopefully that is some consolation. She had it done vaginally..was off of work for a total of 2 weeks and came back to work. Amazing really! I have another friend that also had it done just recently surgically, (she's never had children) and was back to work in 6 weeks (abdominal incision). Again, she says that she feels fantastic! So...with that said, I wish you Godspeed with healing and remember you will have time to keep us posted (hee hee!) You can crack the whip at all of us and send us private messages!

Derry...for heavens sakes where are you holidaying now????? Sheesh!!!! I'm jealous!

NewAnn! Glad to hear that you are keeping up with the walking. Did you know that just in one day walking around the office I put on over 5,000 steps. Good heavens if that photocopier and printer were any farther from my desk I wouldn't have to do any extra walking!

Have a great one all!!!! I'll try and check in later this week if not early next!

oh yes....and the dating with the most recent Engineer is proving to be very interesting.....he's cute...kind...a gentleman.... *sigh*....

Lafayette, I'm so sorry about the surgery. I hope all is well. It's so permanant, though, and have you discussed other alternatives? You are so young. I shall include you in my prayers.
Elan, you sound so positive and I'm glad for you.
As for me, can anyone ever just get sick of vacations? I am. I want to be in my own controlled environment. This vacationing has ruined my weight loss efforts. When I am here in RI, I don't keep up with activity and I feel kind of lost.
We'll be coming home on Sunday and I can't wait. I'm going to be back at the gym on Monday!!!

Linda what the heck are you doing up so early in the morning????? EGADS girl! It's vacation! you are supposed to be sleeping in!

Last weekend I went to Taste of Calgary -- it's a festival where all these restaurants do the cooking and you can sample their food. I was VERY good though (probably because I was with the guy lol...maybe I need to keep dating to get all this weight off! ha ) Anyways, ate butter chicken, samosa's and of course the alcohol didn't help!

Vacation for me throughout the year has been a Friday here a Monday there to extend the weekend. The kids are our of the house now, so it's just me. The extra weekend day has been nice and enough of a break. In November I am heading stateside to do some shopping! (Maybe bring some of that fabulous WW snacking stuff home!).

Elan, I naturally get up early - can't help myself. To me, this IS sleeping later, if you can imagine that!
My daughter and I just reviewed some of the better festival food choices and came up with this:

hamburger (no cheese) is better than a hot dog or sausage and pepper sandwich
popcorn is better than French Fries
slushie (ice with syrup stuff) is better than ice cream
soft serve ice cream is better than regular ice cream
cotton candy is better than a candy bar

Any other fesival/fair ideas? We are going and we are going to eat there, so we have to examine the "better" choices.

Hello Ladies,
Lafayette, I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. I wish you all the best. How are you doing?
Linda, my DS has a book it is called too much vacation. It can happen. I think some places are triggers for us too. I know when I visit my inlaws I find they are a trigger and I really have to be aware of what I am doing because I start mindless eating around them.
Elan, this dating thing is going well for you. Yeah you. What type of engineer are your dating? What field do you work in? Maybe weight watchers should have a dating plan...just joking. That is great you can tell by your post you are feeling good about yourself. Yeah...now if only they would move the photocopier further from your desk you wouldn't have to walk any place. Hey you could always walk on your dates. Did you go to the Folk Festival?
Have a great night all.

Hey All! (ok...saying all in case some guy decides to join our little group! hee hee). Dating.....arghhh - pub last night, choice of deep fried this and deep friend that. Ate very little but did nosh on the salad SOAKED in ceasar dressing! ha ha. The engineer, well what can I say? He's very sweet, but not the one for me I think, but will be a great friend! I didn't make it to the Folk Festival. I am amazed at how many things they have here to do. Just nice to do it with someone else other than dragging your girlfriends all over the place!

Linda -- great work with the choices! I can't help myself at fairs -- I HAVE to have one of those corn dogs no matter what. But I have ONE. The rest of the stuff like the mini donuts and the cotton candy I can leave. I did do the diet drink (no ice..then you get more!). You'll have to let us know how you do with that!

Cheers all and have a great day!

Hello everyone.
How are you all doing
Linda, I am sure it will be nice to get home and back into your routine. From what you have been posting it seems like you are doing way better than I would be doing on vacation. How is the weather there. Here it is raining and it is starting to become cooler. It is nice after all the hot humid weather we have had.
Elan, pub food always smells good, but I find now I don't really enjoy it. It is too greasy. I think when you are drinking either the alcohol soaks up the grease or the grease soaks up the alcohol....not sure which one it is. I just know if I drink the pub food tastes much better. It has been so long since I have been to a pub. Enjoy your weekend.
Lafayette, I do hope all is well with you.
Take Care
Ann

Lafayette, I'm thinking about you and hope things are going well. This is a hard time for you, I am sure. Hang in.
Ann, I think that book your DS has is perfect for me! I'm really anxious to get home.
I am heading up to the lake next week, after a week at home, but it is just me and not DH and kids with me. I plan on being a frequent visitor at the local farm stand, swimming and walking and relaxing. It's not a family vacation, but a spiritual renewal!

Wow Linda, what a great idea a spiritual renewal, I know we could all use that. I do hope it is a wonderful refreshing time for you. It sounds so nice.
Elan, I went to the States shopping today and I bought all kinds of great ww products and 100 calorie snacks that we can't get in Canada. It was awesome. I recommend it. I met a lady at the store who asked me if I was on ww, she could tell by my cart. She was also from Canada and she goes shopping once a month to stock up on healthy snacks and general stuff she can't get here.
Lafayette, where are you and how are you doing.
Have a wonderful weekend all.
Take Care
Ann

Ann, it's a shame that you can't get the products you want in Canada. Do you know why that is that they are not imported?
Also, I'm thinking twice about heading up to the cabin next week. I think my son has been very lonely this last week and the week before when we were on vacation without him. He's old enough to be on his own, but I think he's really been missing having his family and some home-cooked meals.
I'll be thinking a bit before I go, even though I would love being there.
I have trouble with our cabin, quite honestly. It's a high emotion place as my dad built it years ago and it was my family place. When I am there with family, I am usually quite happy surrounded by lakes and mountains, but when I am there alone I am worried that missing my mom and dad will be taking over and that I might be an emotional wreck.
Maybe I should just stay home. We'll see. I am also wondering if it would be too hard for me, being alone, to be on program and that emotional eating could take over?
Linda

Hey guys! Thanks for the thoughts and prayers. I got rushed in for emergency surgery last week since the both ovarain cysts burst... holy hurt!

I'm sitting up again and all is well- best as can be expected I guess. It's been seven days since the surgery and, despite the fact that I have a large lateral incision (no wimpy bikini line incision for me!), I already feel better than I did before the surgery. My recovery will be 4-6 weeks, with at least 4 of those keeping me out of work. The painkillers are weak because my stomach is not friendly towards the good stuff but I'm hangin' in there. Despite a 5 pound lifting restriction and no stairs, I am getting up on my own, making my own white toast (about all I can handle) and cruising around the first floor of my house pretty well. I find myself surprisingly grateful for the huge flat screen my fiance insisted we "needed."

As for options, this was it. There was nothing to save; the damage was too severe. So much for blaming myself for being overweight and out of shape. I could strangle the doctor who diagnosed IBS and claimed it was "in my head" but that's another topic for another day...

We weren't planning on having children since this isn't the first time I've had reproductive health issues so it basically changed our "decision" to a fact, which was it's own transition but not nearly as devastating as I have heard it has been for other couples. I'm so !#@%* thrilled it's not cancer, I don't really care! The fact that I already feel better is really motivating me to accept that this was the best decison for my health. Other women who've had hysterectomies assure me that, once I feel better, it will be the best I can ever remember feeling in my life. WooHoo! One informed me I'm now a member of the "white pants without worry" club and I have to admit, when Midol commercials come on the TV, I cheer and clap because NEVER AGAIN!

Oh, and I've already lost 10 pounds (some of which was obviously removed surgically but I certainly earned it!).

How's everyone else doing?

Lafayette, I'm so thankful you are OK. I am also Thankful that you didn't plan on having a family as that would be so awful. However, If you do ever change your mind (you are young, after all and when I got married I didn't think I ever wanted kids - then all of a sudden my biological clock ticked very loudly and next thing you know, I had two kids...) you can always adopt. I know several adopted people who have had wonderful lives. I know several people who have successfully adopted and things have had happy endings in all cases. So, you are not sentenced and committed to a permanent life without a family, if you choose otherwise.
In the meantime, stay well, follow doctor's orders and thank goodness it was not cancer! Bug HUGS for you! I wish I lived near you so I could make you some homemade WW friendly healthy meals in little "TV Dinner" trays to heat up when you feel up to it, but I am sure you have plenty of people around you to help out with all of that.
Again, I am so glad you are OK. That is the most important thing of all.
As for me, I have been vacationing and indulging way too much. I faced the music and went for a weigh in this morning. I gained two pounds. It could have been worse and I'm quite aware of that.
I can take this off in "no time" and I'm already back on track. I made a WW friendly dinner that is in the crock pot and dinner will only be 8 points. What a busy day today has been, having just been away there is a ton of laundry. My daughter is leaving on a trip for 8 days, to Ocean City Maryland, tomorrow. I'm trying to get all the laundry caught up in one day and help organize her so she will be 100% ready tomorrow.
Of course, being the over protective mom, I am having major separation anxiety. She's my "baby" and I am really worrying as she's only been away from home just overnight for sleepovers in the past. This is a HUGE step and she will be a 10 1/2 hour ride from home, it's not like mommy can fix it and help her if she runs into trouble.
That's about it for me today... sure am glad you are OK!

Linda, that much laundry will help you lose 2 pounds in no time!

My appetite is totally gone for now. Diet blessing... all I can stand is chicken soup and white toast although I did have Cream of Wheat for breakfast yesterday and some instant mashed potatoes last night. WooHoo! At this rate, I'll be thin in no time, not that that's my intention. I've been drinking the new Special K Protein water, too. Now, it's all about getting proper nutrition in spite of the nausea so I'll heal quickly.

When I went to the doctor August 2 (the start of my saga), I weighed 166. At the time of my surgery last week, I weighed 159 (several days of nausea will do that) and, this morning, I was 154. It's really nice to know that period bloat won't pull me back up... on one particularly bad day last month, I went from 164 to 172. As if PMS and severe cramps weren't demoralizing enough!

Great progress! My gi-normous cotton granny panties are starting to get baggy... I'm still wearing my fiance's sweatpants, though. The fact that my walk is starting to look less like a waddle is also a good sign!

Lafayette, what is the wedding date? Will you be OK for it? I hope so!
I'm praying for you.
What is that special K protein water like? I've not tried it. How many calories/points is it per bottle? Does it taste really good?
Linda

Our wedding is set for March 29, 2008, so I should feel much better by then. I'll still be a little tired but we've structured the reception to encourage conversation and relaxation, not dancing and mayhem. I hate it when you get rushed through the meal, lose your table to the dance floor and feel the urge to sneak out early because the obnoxious DJ makes it impossible to hear yourself think. Instead, we are having a leisurely cocktail hour with passed hor d'ouveres, a three-course meal with plantyu of time to linger over coffee and dessert, a later serving of wedding cake and conversation-friendly music with a pianist and possible a few other instruments. The entire day is structured so that I will be able to sit, relax and enjoy my guests (hopefully without drawing atttention to the fact that I'm tired). It will be wonderful!

The Special K water- K2O- is actually pretty good, if a little sweeter than I usually like. I have the lemon and the strawberry kiwi. They are 50 calories with 0 fat and 0 fiber. They do have 8g of sugar but they also have 5g of protein (from whey). It's not much protein but it's more than I would get from drinking water. The 16 oz bottle is just the right size, too. It's very important that I get my water now. Guess I'll have to get on that!!!

With each day, I feel better. Last night, I was able to roll over in bed without yelping. This is major! I'll be really happy when I can bend over without the audible "ugh!" and flat-out joyous when I can stop worrying about bowel function... yuck. Sorry for the over-share!

I'm so glad you are feeling a bit better.
I doubt I'd spend a WW point on a water, even if it did include some protein in it, sadly.
I am not a fan of some of the flavored waters that seem to be "flooding" (get it?) the market lately. Most of them are overly sweet for my taste, but I see tons of people drinking them, so I guess others really like them?
I made it to the gym today, and was proud of myself. It's 97 degrees here today and it was so easy to just say I'd pass on it and sit in my air conditioned house. But, I went and I felt really good afterwards.
I hope you will be able to do some form of exercise at some point.
Take care of yourself,
Linda

Linda, congrats on getting to the gym! Way to go! I know hot weather is a powerful demotivator. Did you end up going to the cabin?

I'll be able to start walking first and then be able to do light aerobics. Sit-ups and serious ab work are a long way off... I have to be careful not to create scarring (adhesions) by over doing it or I will have problems. I can't wait to be able to get back on the horse, so to speak. Daytime television is chock full of commercials for diet pills, Nutrisystem and Jenny Craig-type diets, and workout videos. It's hard not to feel like a blob as I lay on my couch, even if I am legitimately recovering.

I agree about the flavored water and extra points but my diet is pretty unbalanced right now and liquids are an absolute necessity. Anything bland is my friend... I never imagined I would get this excited about dry toast. I usually reserve this kind of enthusiasm for expensive dark chocolate. ;)

Can I jump in here as well.

I think you should! Welcome!

Hi, My name is Mary, I have been doing WW on and off for what seems my whole life.This time doing at home and saving the money for gym fees. Which I must admit have been a bit like my diet (Hit and miss) lately.Not putting on weight just staying the same. I am here nearly every day but tend to be a bit of a luker. Am asking some of you lovely people to back up the bus (don't run me over) just so I have enough time to grab hold and hoist this lazy butt on board. What sort of programmes are you doing core, Flex etc.
Exercise etc

I am not a fan of some of the flavored waters that seem to be "flooding" (get it?) the market lately.

He He I like this, not a great fan of water at all unless it's mixed with Hops.lol
Lafayette, sorry to hear you are not well, but sounds like you will be up and about soon
Must go walking DD to work since I didn't get my gym into the day.
AGAIN!!
Have a great day
Mary

Welcome Mary. Good to have you aboard.
Lafayette, sounds like you are well in control of your recovery and all will happen in time, be patient. I have no excuses not to be doing the exercise, so perhaps I need to do it for both of us?
Where's Elan been lately?
Mary, a brief intro from me....
I never had a weight problem until after having my two children. Then, it seemed like all the in between meal snacks I was giving them, as they were growing children popped into my mouth as well. Then, when they wouldn't finish everything on their plates and the table was cleared, guess who was popping all the leftovers into her mouth? Guess who was not exercising and being more concerned about baking the family cookies (eating the dough) and more concerned about providing flavorful meals the kids would like vs. making healthier choices?
Well, all that is changed. I've been on WW so many times and have come back many times, but I have proclaimed this to be my last time. I'm in this for life and in this to win. I hope to be a WW leader, one day. I hope to be lean and in good health so that I will have a long and active life. Time to be more intelligent and less "in the moment" with my eating.
I have learned, especially, that eating out is not always a "special occasion". I realized, and it was a true light bulb moment for me, that my family eats out 2 - 3 times a week, on average. It's not my birthday, my anniversary, a holiday or anything all of those times. I was making excuses and saying to myself "Oh, I can have what I want today, as it's a special occasion - we're eating out!" Well, if you eat out that often, it is NOT an excuse. That is a turning point.
I have also learned that planning ahead works wonders. I try to sit down at the beginning of each day and physically plan out all my meals. I figure out my points ranges for everything and when I have a plan, I stick with it!
Good luck on your weight loss journey!

Mary, my weight problems stemmed from quitting smoking and settling into the suburban lifestyle. Dating and the requisite desserts didn't help either!

I've struggled with losing weight and, while I don't recommend major abdominal surgery as a remedy, I admit to feeling relief knowing that poor diet and lack of exercise weren't the only things making me feel so exhausted and huge. I found I could eat right, exercise and still gain thanks to the fibriods, endometriosis and cysts. I've lost 14 pounds since the surgery and I already feel so much better than before I went in. I plan to use weight watchers to help me develop healthy eating habits and to get back in shape the right way as I recover.

Today is the first day I can have salad! I'm finally getting sick of toast and white rice... I had some chicken last night but my appetite is still kind of wimpy. Exercise is still a way off but I'll start back at Curves as soon as I get the green light.

Welcome and good luck!

Thank you so much for the lovely welcome.
You both sound a little like me lol.
Derrydaughter,
I too cleaned the plates for the kids, and if you have seen my profile you will understand how I got this big. Why waste food right! Back at that time I used to make cookies every Saturday, made my owm jams, pickels etc. Grew a vege garden Now I just buy them, not really sure if it's cheaper or I am just lazy now. AHHHH the good old days when I was young.seems so long ago.
Even got DH trying to lose weight with me now (Trying being the key word)
But at least now, he is not working against me and has stopped bringing home fried chicken.

Lafayette,
I think I will pass on your weight loss programme,sounds too pain full.
14 lbs wow.and Ouch!!!!! Last surgery I had was when I had my tubes tied after I had my last girl, I refused to leave the hospital until I had it.lol
When you get up and around again you won't know yourself.
Just take you time and don't rush. You may do yourself some harm.
MMMMMMM I have just finished taking off the 22lb that I gained giving up smoking over 18 months. Then i got stressed out when one of my boys got into trouble. And started again. Have been thinking about giving another go. But it will happens, when it happens.
Got to go hubby is hungry. Have a great day.

I quit smoking for two years and restarted again with all this mess. It's probably not the healthiest thing I could do for myself but, then again, I know how to quit and I know I need to be ready to put that much will power toward my efforts. The stress is reduced but the boredom is excruciating. I'm glad I won't be doing this again!

I am surprised to find myself looking forward to another two weeks of recovery. I expected to feel much better by now. I just can't stay in the same position very long or I start to ache. Yuck! There's no way I could sit at my desk, even for 4 hours. Ah, well. Thank God, I saved for a rainy day!!!

I quite smoking about 20 years ago, before getting pregnant with my son and never started again. I'm afraid that I'd have trouble quitting.
I'm feeling awfully sad tonight, I go through these times. I miss my mom and dad (MaryL, I lost them both within 4 months of each other) this time of year is awful for me, as my dad passed away on 9/15 this kind of weather is exactly like when he died. It's really lonely now and then and I so with that I could go back in time and just BE with with. Oh well. I have to carry on.
But, days like this are dangerous. I had a cookie today and I had two beers with dinner that I didn't plan on.
I need to get to the gym and find my positive attitude.

Hey Mary!!!! Welcome aboard.....Linda move your skinny behind over so Mary can sit by you! hee hee...

Elan has been away..dating! OMG it is GREAT! Anyways I have been watching what I am to eat. I have lost a bit more, not as much as I want, but I am taking it one step at a time. I figure if I eat in moderation and choose wisely..and drink my water it will all come off...slowly.

Me....was a Weight Watcher's leader...then got divorced and all that went to H-double hockey sticks! I was a smoker when I was ww leader..and then quit..some of it came on after that and then of course the divorce pretty much blew it! I did come back though and have had the most wonderful support on the Bus!!!! This bus is HUGE so we have loads of free seats and the more the merrier! Nice to have you here Mary!!

Girls! carry on! (ps...my stomach is getting smaller! yeah!!!!)

My mom passed along some great advice for coping with the down times when mourning the loss of a parent. She "stumbled" after her father died until a friend told her any actions she took to mourn him should also honor him. With that in mind, she found it easier to back away from food as consolation (he died of a heart attack at 46) and do something healthy for herself instead. I hope this helps, Linda!

Lafayette, your advise is sound and good. In fact, on the anniversary of his death, I will be making a donation to the American Cancer Society in honor of him.... hmmm, how ironic that you just took up smoking again recently and here I am donating towards cancer research.... could be your own special message from above? Just kidding in a way, but I do worry for you.
I can honor my dad in many ways, but it just gets so darned lonely. I do think I set myself up for this the last few days, but I still need time to be myself and be alone.
I go home today and finally, three members of my family will be in one location after the last 8 days, my daughter arrives home from Maryland about 2:00 am on Sunday morning. Then, all four of us will be at the house for two days before my husband leaves for NYC and school starts. But, with our routine beginning over again, I shall be less at odds with myself.
In self examination, this last week, I am really trying to figure out what it is that I should be doing with the rest of my life. Should I push myself truly hard, get to goal and finally be a WW leader? Should I go back to college and maybe re-start some sort of career? Should I give back to the world and immerse myself in charity work? Being a mom is a full time job, but now suddenly it's becoming a part time job. I really envisioned that I would be taking care of my aging parents at this stage of my life, but they died and now where does a stay at home mom for 20 years fit in to the world when the chicks leave the roost? Life isn't over, I still want to have a fun and meaningful life and surely hope to be around for many more years. So, along with all of this pondering, a new me shall arise. Who will that be? No wonder I was sad and lonely last night. But, in the fresh light of day, I am a bit more positive at least. I'll figure it all out, it will be interesting for sure.

Linda, I'm glad to hear that you're pondering your future! It's a difficult set of decisions but what an exciting time! There's so much you can do!

I know the church festival was a challenge, but have you ever considered working for a charitable organization? I had a career crisis and started working for a nonprofit children's literacy organization- I love it! I work for so much more than a paycheck and, while my pay has decreased, my benefits actually are better. Plus, my "soft skills" like caring and being supportive are very valuable to this job. You can start by volunteering with an organization to see if you like it and build your resume while you do it. It can be a great transition.

I can take a little ribbing for my smoking... I'll quit as soon as I'm ready again. Right now, I'm gearing up for it... honestly!

So, Elan, what's the skinny on the dating?!? Are you just enjoying dating or have you found a special guy? You've been kind of quiet.. ;)

Lafayette I wanted to pop in here and let you know that I had been thinking about you as well. It does my heart good to see your recovery progressing so nicely. Do yourself a favor and really take it easy for the next 2 weeks. These 2 are the crucial ones due to the fact we are feeling better, stronger, perhaps even a little excited ( to excited ) to jump back into eating and moving again.

Baby yourself! You'll be glad you did. :)

Derry I'm feeling ya. I know these crossroads of life all to well. They just happen a lot more frequently for me. :lol: My ten year old son and I decided that once a month we would go to the Hospital's children ward dressed as clowns. He would do his card tricks for them and I would make balloon animals, lill things to brighten their day. My older daughter is a bit unsure ( 14 ) go figure but I know she will come around find her nitch. My 12 yr. old is gun-ho to read to the little ones. ( I feel its important to give back, to give period. My hope is to instill that into my babes. :) )

Elan you rock!! I am living vicariously thru you! :lol: Just be careful of the slippery slope. ;)

Mary welcome!! Your going to adore these ladies! :) You wont find a more supportive, caring, be there for you when you need it group. Good luck on your journey.

Thanks, Sassy and Lafayette. You are quite kind and your words very wise.
One thing I know I shall NOT do it rush into the wrong thing and get saddled with something (paid or not paid) that I will grow to hate. I would like to reason it all out and then make a decision.
I got on my home scale this morning and was a bit disappointed, by the way. I was away at the lake and I have to say that I was fairly well behaved and did get exercise, but the scale didn't seem to budge.
I'll stick with it and shall plan out my eating and move on...

Thanks, Sassy!

I called work this morning to let them know I would be out another 2.5 weeks at least. It went OK but I get the impression there will be some blame and bull from a few people when I get back. I hope I am wrong. I didn't intend to leave for emergency surgery and/or to be out this long. The idea of going back to that environment and attitude makes me a little leary... I guess it's just as well that I have more time to get healthy and prepare myself to deal with it!

No weight loss since the initial drop but I'm sure looking forward to feeling better! We're going to try a little walk later, too. I've got to get these old bones movin'!

Hi All,

well, i've rejoined WW at work program and I'm motivated to keep going this time, I want to be down a lot before I get married in May of 2008. I've just hit 15 pound mark and hope to keep going. I used to be a regular to this site several years ago and have never forgotten the support that goes on in the forums! Hope everyone has a great and wonderful holiday!

Good Morning People.(she says, with a bounce in her voice) It's the first day of spring over here, woke up this morning with the birds singing outside the window, the little sheeps are running around, and the flowers are popping out everywhere. Even got hubby out for a early morning walk. My weight has gone down 400grm as of Friday morning. But I would not count on it staying that way over the weekend. We have a BBQ to go to at a son's house. So I will tell you next week.;)
Meanwhile I have been just sitting here on the puter and downloading music on to me mp3, which really helps when I am out walking. Seems to make me go a little faster than norm.

Hello Mistyblue.

Lafayette, Take you sweet time going back to work. People at work don't know how you feel, and it's only you that lives in your body. It's really nice to hear you are up and walking.

(One thing I know I shall NOT do it rush into the wrong thing and get saddled with something (paid or not paid) that I will grow to hate. I would like to reason it all out and then make a decision)

This is very wise, one of my kids signed up for a course and 2 months later decied he did not like it but had to stay because it was paid for.
Maybe you could look for some free ones or short ones to have a try at, there are so many different things to do now days.

Got to run, have house work to do before I go anywhere tonite.
HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND
Mary

Mary, sounds like you're doing a great job of staying positive! Way to go with the early am walk!

I'm sitting home alone watching What Not To Wear and getting excited about being able to wear something other than oversized pajama bottoms sometime in the future. I just feel very confident that I can recoever, lose the rest of the weight and feel better than ever! I even made sure to schedule a haircut and color before I head back to work. No reason to scare small children! ;)

Mistyblue, there's a thread for "Brides to Be" under the support groups/miscellaneous clubs section- we'd love to have you stop in! I'm getting married in March 2008 and I intend to be a fit size 6 in time to order a smashing wedding dress- that means by October 2007. The other girls and I can suggest lots of flattering styles for you and your bridesmaids plus some fun planning tips (one brave soul even made homemade soap for her guests!). It's like brides or the knot but with LOTS of encouragement, 3FC style!

My Gosh ! did I say that I had lost 400grms on Friday?
MMM well I put it back on, on the weekend, plus 1oo. But to tell the truth, it really was worth it. We had a great time and our football team won.:carrot::carrot::carrot: With any luck they will win the grand final's which some of the family will be going to watch in Australia at the end of the month.
It's very quite in here where is everyone?

Labor Day weekend was a bit of a bust for me... I had brownies for breakfast yesterday, if that's any clue... I have been feeling pretty rough but I also went off the painkillers because they were ripping up my stomach. Ibuprofen isn't quite the same! I'm adjusting, though.

We had a friends/family get-together yesterday that was fun but became a little bit of a "what happened to you?" event. So much for just saying that I had major abdominal surgery... that just led to more detailed questions like, "Are you OK with not being able to have children?" Ugh...

I got the slight impression that one person had an opinion she felt should have been consulted before I had the surgery... it could be self-created tension but I know this person has criticized me in the past for everything from hiring a painter when I was too exhausted to complete the job to wedding details she felt should have been done differently. Her reaction to learning the surgery was done on an emergency basis because I was hemorraging was a pretty clear indicator that she has already criticized me to others. Ah, well. It's her world and I'm just living in it ;) What a beast!!!

Hi guys.... back to the "grind" today... I gained yesterday, just .6 but it was still a gain. Today is a going away party at my quilt group, as well, and there will be cake. One of our dearest members is moving out of state.
Maybe the slight gain was what I needed to keep me in check? I'll have the tiniest sliver. We're all going out to lunch together afterwards, but I am in control at a restaurant, at least. I put an apple in my tote bag and I think I'll cut it up and munch slowly on it before we take coffee break and everyone sits in front of that cake. If I munch slowly, I think maybe I'll be able to deal with a sliver of cake, otherwise I would be starving and would lose control.
Lafayette, I like the saying "It's her world and I am just living in it". I severed a long term friendship with someone like that not too long ago. I never thought of it that saying, just that she is a control freak and had something to say about everything I did and questioned all my choices. She is politically opposed to me, as well, which doesn't help. Of course, all of HER candidates and stands on issues are correct and she would never cease to argue with me over these points. I just hated having to deal with it. Of course, her opinion about where my kids went to college and how they conducted their lives was also for her to tell... I'm well rid of her. I hope you can deal with this person well.
You are in control of your own life, wedding, reproductive decisions and don't ever forget that!
MaryL, you sound like me. The social occasions are the worst. I can do so well when it is just me eating and no one else around, but social things are so hard.
I'm hoping my apple today will save me....

Good luck with your apple, Linda! That sounds like an excellent strategy.

I wish I could sever the relationship but she's about to be family. I get the impression other family members are equally irritated by her judgements but that doesn't make it easier to take. In the past, I've tried to give her the benefit of the doubt and have even defended her. I've just decided to remain quiet when she starts in and when others complain. My mother always said, "If you don't fight, the other person can't win." I guess now we'll see if that works.

On the upside, I am madly in love with my fiance and my future mother-in-law is fantastic so I'll survive the wedding and future holidays!

Hello guys could I get on the bus to ? I saw there was another kiwi on it (hi Mary)

You sure can! Did you just get started on your journey? Or have you been around for a while?

Update: The soon-to-be family member I mentioned in my previous post reached out to me with an offer to help out. I hope this will be the start of a relationship that doesn't include her constant criticism but I'm not really holding my breath. Maybe a little positive attention will be just what the doctor ordered.

In the meantime, I have been crazy for salads and fresh veggies lately. Thank God for small favors but I can't believe I'm actually craving LETTUCE!

Has anyone seen the new show "You Are What You Eat" on BBC America? A nutritionist stages an intervention with overweight people after assessing their diet and showing them a table loaded with what they ate over the past week. My God! I wonder how many nibbles of chocolate (dark and anti-oxidant friendly, of course!) would be on my table?!? They give them recipes and tips for staying the course and it's really pretty cool to see how they begin to feel better and more energized in just a few weeks. I like it much better than the puritanical shows they do here in the US. The Brits come right out and say people fart too much and have no sex drive (two positive incentives for cleaning up your act) whereas the Americans have to discuss heart health, diabetes, premature aging and guilt. Check it out!

Good evening... not much going on here this evening, but I loved this line:
My mother always said, "If you don't fight, the other person can't win." I guess now we'll see if that works.
I just LOVE that....I know a person in my life that this is so true about. It drives her absolutely crazy that I will not "spar" with her any longer. I feel triumphant.
Lafayette, change the subject when she brings up things and harps on them. It helps.
As for me, I went to the gym today. I practically dragged myself, but felt so much better when I was there and after I left.
I was on program and have 2 flex points left for a WW dessert as well. I'm quite happy with today's efforts.
Hope everyone had a good day!

Way to go, Linda! I'll be sure to keep your advice in mind... I hope it goes better this time.

I walked- all by myself- around the corner to the deli for a salad... I still can't believe how much I've been craving lettuce!

Craving lettuce certainly sounds like an odd thing, but healthy! I usually crave comfort foods like diary products (desserts like custards, flans, creme brulee, etc.) and chocolate. I wish I could develop a lettuce craving!
Today, house cleaning and laundry shall be my way of earning activity points. I won't count them on my journal, but I know I'll probably earn 2 points.
I just finished a low point breakfast, have to plan what dinner will be tonight so I won't blow it.
I'm glad you are getting your strength back, Lafayette!

I have finally gievn up on my fiance's ability to take care of the house and housework while I am down for the count. I love him, but I swear he just doesn't see the dirt!

He bought all new TV components and left the bits and pieces of packaging and spare wires laying all over the livcing room. He cleaned the kitchen before he left this morning but skipped all the pots and pans and cleaning some serious scuz in the sink. Laundry? Fermenting in the washer! I can't even describe the state of the bathroom... Men!!!

So, I am getting my exercise running up and down the basement stairs in a massive attempt to get clean sheets and underwear. I also finished the kitchen, bleached the sink and wiped down what I could reach in the bathroom. Thank God the maid service I hired to get the rest will be here Monday!!!

I must be healing!

HI INVU welcome aboard.

'NEWS FLASH' Lafayette, all men are like that,they have what one of my
boys call 'man eyes' where they only see what they want to. One of mine does the same thing. lol he will do cups, plates etc, but always leaves the pots. With a "Oh I didn't see them" or when they look in the cupboard for something and if it's not in the first row, then it's just not there.Sometimes it's quite handy because when I want to hide something I put it in the teatowel drawer or in the laundry cupboard where they really try to avoid going.
Sounds like you are healing nicely, don't over do it.

Now on the weight loss side of things, MMMMM not a lot going on there,
going <<< this way>>>> going that way, but not up or down, which is a good thing I guess.But feeling a bit smaller. Gym must be working.
Meanwhile one of the fit boys has talked DH and myself into a 10km walk.
So I have been downloading a training programme, doesn't look to hard.
:running:Not looking to win lol, just to finish.

For INVU, it's run on sunday 14th OCT it supports the special olympics, it's at www.sirbarrycurtis10k.co.nz maybe I will see you there.:running:

K I'm out of here got to go and wake all these lazy people and get them going for the day.
Be good
Mary

Interesting. My DH, if he were home more and were the caretaker of our home would have this place neet as a pin and spotless, he is one of the most organized and clean people I've ever met. I tend to put off the cleaning chores and never seem to find enough hours in each day, yet dishes are always done and my counters are always clean.
I'm having a serious junk mail clutter problem lately, though, I can't keep up with it all and am so sick of credit card offers that I have to carefully tear up or shred due to our names/address info being printed on them. Such a waste of trees and paper, it makes me angry.
Getting back to weight loss. I tried today, but ended up using 12 flex points as we went out to dinner. At least I had them to use. I did go to the gym today, at least. It was hard to drag myself there, but I felt good when I got home that I made the effort.

I am always reinvigorated come Fall! YaY, this is my time of year!! :)

The Summer Slumps are slipping away into the soft smiles of yesterday. I dont know what it is about Summer but it is deffinately my "Off" season. Or better stated "On hold" season for weight loss. It seems my year is geared to get there. I go into a Summer Daze.... Do my best to look good in little to no clothing IE; sundresses, swimsuits, and shorts. ;) and when I am there... I stay there. Whatever weight I made it to through out the year I hold at. Maintain at with a couple pound fluxtuation.

Then comes the crispness of the evening air. All my sense come alive again. I wake up!! The songs in my head change from Wasted daysssss & wasted nightsssssss. To... OoooO, Baby BABY! Ba-ba-ba BAbayyyy!!

September, October, and November... I rock!! Coast a bit thru December and Christmas. January, new year, new beginings! February and March belong to me!! Hooo-Rahhh!! And right before I tire of being ever so good... Spring hits giving me inspiration to give it one last solid push!! Because why?... Summer's coming and I gotta get practically nakie again!! :rofl:

So bring it on September!! I spent this last year getting my eating under control. I've lost 54 pounds this year!! YaY Me! Now its time to reshape my shape! Ohhhh yesssss. Tighten, tone, trim.... Build my body!

Do you guys realize the " Holidays" are just around the corner. There are only 7 weeks to Halloween, 11 weeks till Thanksgiving, and 15 itty bitties till the fat man comes. ( 16 to get into that dress ;) for the New Year. )

Yup, I love the man dearly but I could hide something in plain sight and he would never guess, even staring right at, where it was! I like the term "man eyes!" Very appropriate!

I was sore last night but not so much that I had to resort to the pain pills, just an early night to bed with a good book.

I hate working out in the summer because it's so miserably hot and humid. The human body is not meant to go from -20 to 90+F in six months! It seems so much easier to work out in fall- I think because everything I am allergic to is either dead or dying. The cold air is invigorating and my crazy Wisconsin mind thinks it's great to be skinny under all those heavy clothing layers. In any case, it makes it easier to move when you have some muscle under all that removable padding!!!

OMG!!! has it been THAT long since I've been here! Damn I had to run after the bloody bus again! And I see the seats are filling up!!!

Well I have GREAT news...I have been going down down down....slowly, but surely. Since May 2006 I am down 30 pounds (ok..slow but steady). I am ready to break another "10" mark, so that means I'm down another increment! I have been faithfully wearing my pedometer and happy to say I do at least 6,000 steps ONLY at work! So I'm moving my butt.

The man front (ahem) is moving along quite nicely. My guy friend and I are getting along and we'll just have to wait and see. Man I'm too old for this dating business. I just want to put my order in and take the man home you know! ha ha!

Cheers all and have a FANTASTIC week!!!

Well, Elan, it's about time you showed up here. I was wondering.
Just back from a very "bad" weekend food-wise. But, what can you do? We left here yesterday and drove 4 hours to Stamford CT, it was a huge wedding reception party with wall to wall food.
We got up to a breakfast buffet at our hotel and then went to a BBQ at my sister's house.
Tomorrow, in remorse, I shall be at the gym and grocery shopping. I can do better than this.