LA Weight Loss - Friends and Losers November 17-23

GET UP LAZY BONES! Lets get this week started.

Morning Lettie, and the rest of y'all!!!

YAY ME!!! I did the Rock 'N Roll 1/2 marathon yesterday and surprised myself by running 9.5 miles out of 13! I am hurting today, but still proud of my accomplishment :) My treat was the Cytomax drink every mile or so - I NEVER drink sugared drinks, but that stuff was DELICIOUS!

I'm down another lb this week - 8lbs from goal!!!

Hey - Where is Nicole... seems like much longer than a week... I hope nothing's wrong...

Great job Julie!!

I know, I am starting to worry about Nicole too.

Very cool Julie!!! that is exciting.

doen't anyone have an email for Nicole? somebody needs to track her down. I think she forgot she is supposed to check in with us! I PMd her a while back with no response.

Did some investigating.... these are the facts as I have uncovered them:

On Nov 3 Nicole announced that she would be leaving one week from that day, which would have been Nov 10, for Texas. that was a week ago today. if she was going to be gone a week. then she would be getting back today. the last known post for Nicole was on Nov 5th, when she laughed at the possibility of Dan being pregnant....... sorry to bring that up again, buddy, but you threw it out there! :lol: So I am thinking she should be showing up in the next day or two right on schedule and wondering why we are in a panic.

Thanks Letty... its just wierd that if she was leaving on the 10th she'd stop posting on the 5th... so not like her!

Hello all.

I survived being in Atlantic City last week. Was up a few lbs on the diet front, but being TDY and at a convention, you are at the mercy of what is put in front of you. Having said that, I am at least under 150 this a.m. and am happy with that. I can't really expect to get close to or drop below 140 before Christmas, especially with Thanksgiving around the corner.

I am under alot of stress with the log cabin and with the two teen age boys. I have gotten yet an other call from the school because they were 1) Late, and then 2) left campus. I am at my whits end with them. Any suggestions?

Hey all...

Julie!! Fantastic work.. You're almost there!!!

Ok.. I have a weird thing going on... It seems like no matter what I eat, I always end up feeling really stuffed bloated afterward... For instance.. For lunch today, I had some left over chinese chicken and veg which in reality, with the tiny bit of rice mixed in, amounted to a cup and a half total.. I added to that about 5 small celery sticks and an orange. All washed down with water..

Now I feel like I just ate 3 pieces of pizza and an ice cream sundae...

I'm thinking I may need to go see a doctor about this.. I'm getting tired of sucking down beano and/or phasyme and not have it work very well...

just thought i'd check in and say hi. not feeling too great today.
there's a picture of Jag's train cake in my profile. he loved it! :)

Way to go Julie!! I am so proud of you. I'm sure you feel great and you should.
I hate a bad weekend. I indulged in a couple of drinks and a steak sandwich with fries. I had a long day at work on Friday and this seemed to work. Today I am back on track. I am drinking all my water and eating healthy and less!! haha
Have a great week everyone.

Dan - this may be kinda a gross question - but how are you "regularity" wise? I know when I'm having problems in that area everything tends to make me feel bloated... try switching to green tea or doing a take off to get things moving again? just my suggestion...

Thanks Julie.. "Regularity" has always been an issue with me since I started LAWL.. Seems my body has never gotten used to eating better.. For a while, I balanced it out with fiber, either in pill form or in high fiber foods, but for the past 6 months or so, all it does is give me more gas... So now I just roll with it and if it gets too bad (not going for more than a couple days), I pop a lax.. Not the best solution, but i'm confident I'm not abusing them...

Hey guys! Happy Monday!

Not much going on here today, am up ~3 lbs today, but I am thinking it's TOM. Am in the process of job hunting today. I have about 2+ months before classes start in January, so I want to get a job to fill the time and get some extra pocket cash.

I worked in management and later payroll as a temp, so I was basiclaly looking for admin/clerical then decided to do payroll again. I hated it, but I can make more $$, and if there's an end in sight, I am ok with it!

Unfortunately I gained a lot of weight since i last worked in a job that I have to dress for, so no pants fit me. SO, off to buy 2 pants today. Not fun to buy clothes in a bigger size!

Hope you're having a great day, it's mighty quiet in here today!

Hi there ladies and gents.

Weekend was not so great food wise. But otherwise good.

Hi Lettie and Dan!

Julie congrats! Glad you were feeling better! You rock!

Jillian that cake takes the cake! HA! Looks awesome! Very jealous that my name isn't Jagger... hope I spelled that right.

Amy Teenage boys I don't even want to think about it. Mine is 9 and I hope he stays that way forever!

Jersey Amy I hear you on buying clothes. It's soo tough especially when you can't wait and you have to buy them now.

I hope all of you are having a great start to a great week!

Hello,

It has been ages since I logged on here, but I am just wondering if you all have been able to do this program on your own with success.

I went back to LAWL/Pure Weight loss after 5 years and the experience was awful! When I did the program in 2001, I lost 34 lbs in about 4 months and I was able to keep it off for about 3 years and then life happened. I went back in 2006 and the counselors were idiots, they all left my center and we got even dumber ones in 2007, so I did not have much success and it was all about pushing products on me.

I would like to try the program on my own, I realize it's mainly sensible eating, but I need something to follow. I have most of the color plans, but not sure where I should start.

Currently I am wanting to lose 40 lbs, I exercise regularly and I won't use any substitute bars or anything, I want straight food.

Please help! I know that you have probably discussed this somewhere on the forums but I don't have a lot of time to look.

Thank you very much for your input.

Jillian, How precious that cake was! You did a great job.

Julie, You ran 9.5 miles! Wow! That is awesome. I bet you could not have done that before you lost all the weight. See how strong and healthy you have become! You rock!

Amy, Teenagers are so stressful!! First of all just love them. Tell them about how you see your roles as a parent. I think most kids have never given a whole lot of thought as to why you are saying what you are. Share your fears with them. I think our kids are overprotected to the point where they might not see what bad things could happen. At some point you have to make them aware that you are worried because you think something bad could happen to them, and not just because you want to control their world, which is how most kids tend to experience what you are saying to them. I found the clear expressing of my fears caused a different response. Instead of talking about why I'm so mean for making the rules I did, we talked about the real risks. Sure they will think you are crazy, but they are more likely to humor their crazy mom who worries over them and loves them to death, than the witch who is making arbitrary rules to control their life... since they can't always see the great love that is there all around them.

Hey guys-

TurboMom- Welcome!! THere are MANY of us, actually MOST of us that are doing it on our own. I am doing Red 1 without bars, but occasionally eat a Luna bar. I am sure this isn't good, but there is mixed advice as to what to substitute for bars.

Speadking of which, what is the substitution for them? I heard another protein and another startch, but isn't that a lot??

Anyone watch the show on Style Network Ruby?? I LOVE her! She's such a sweetheart. If anyone hasn't seen it, it's a woman who is almost 500lbs. She was told be her doctor that it's a life or death situation for her to lose weight. It's basically her journey. GREAT show. Sunday nights at 8pm I think...

Hope everyone is having a great night! Ended up buying clothes from OldNavy.com as the stores no longer carry plus. Also got a pair of pants from Lane Bryant and a GORGEOUS winter coat from NY&CO.

hey everyone. just thought i'd say hi for the day.

Happy Tuesday all.

I survived disciplining my 15 year old and was lucky enough not to make the evening news. Took the CP away from him so maybe that will help some. Teens just don't think rules apply to them. It wasn't his fault cause the bus left early, it wasn't his fault case he didn't leave the campus like they said he did, blah, blah, blah.

Anyway, TOM is around the corner and I could tell cause I cleaned the kitchen out last night. Wouldn't even look at the scale this a.m.

Hope everyone is is having a better week than me.

Just wanted to pop in and say hey. I will try to get caught up and check back in later.

G'morning ladies..

Totally forgot that we're having our department Thanksgiving pot luck today.. So I ran out and grabbed a big old veggie tray.. Good thing too, because as of now, the lunch room is full of every kind of carb I can't have anymore.. Someone was told to bring rolls and they brough CINNAMON ROLLS.. :lol: D'oh!!

Wish me luck!!

Dan - that's funny, but not as funny as the time someone brought RAW brown n serve rolls to our Thanksgiving lunch at work - HELLOOOO how did they expect to cook them? Those are the times you really see who cooks and who doesn't!

Dionne - you hangin' in there? how's everything going?

Jillian - that cake was so cute! I don't have the patience for anything like that...

Thanks everyone for the cheers on my run :) I'm still feeling the pain, but I got to see my name in the newspaper as a finisher, soooooo worth it :)

Amy- My son is 16 and he is a very respectful kid however one night, his hormones took over his body and some girls asked him to sneak out with them. I caught him though, he had snuck out but I still caught him and his friend with 4 girls....was I mad!!! I took away his cell phone and it just about killed him. I had it for 2 weeks and read all his text messages. I took his laptop away too. These kids don't know anything but electronics so just take it away. He has been good ever since.
If you make it really hard the first time they get in trouble, it will make them think harder about what they do. It's worked for me so far.
Good luck with those teenagers.

Hey guys,

Just wanted to stop in and say hello. I am really in a funk today...just a number of things piling up on me I guess...

Hi friends -

Been an OK week so far, still feel yucky. It finally got cold here and they turned down the heat to "67" to save energy, but right now my office is 64 degrees.

Julie - Great job in the marathon! I am duly impressed. How did you feel the next day?

Jillian - I posted in last weeks thread, but the train cake is really amazing! He must have loved it.

I don't envy those of you with teens. My teeneaged dog is enough to handle, thank you very much.

OK, need to warm my hands!

Jillian - I loved your cake! How creative you are.
I have Nicole's email address and will see what's up with her.......they don't call me "stalker joni" for nothing!

Thanksgiving Challenge 2008 is over tomorrow. Looks like JessKahle is our leader right now, but Ana08, Erin1369, Jewelz, and Kimphin all did great too.

Sorry, Dan, I have no suggestions for what ails you, but I often have the same problem so I'd be curious what advice you get. And I certainly can't offer advice for moms with teens...although I like the idea of taking away the cellphone AND screening the msgs!

Kim - you'll be happy to know it's actually below freezing in Atlanta...and the wind really kicked up and I'm freezing! I bought some of that window stuff that you put around your window and then use your blow dryer to tighten it up. I plan to put it on my large window in my home office. The window is covered with one of those large wood blinds, so I don't think I'll see the plastic and hopefully it will cut back on the chill. Of course, I'm a procrastinator and who knows when I'll get this done.

Night all....

Hi friends!

Hi Joni! So good to see your face! Glad to see you are still organizing challenges! I'm up for the next one!

Scale said I'm down 4lbs this past week! I'm pretty happy with that number, especially since I was not exactly perfect this weekend!

Dan-you can never got wrong with a veggie tray!

Jillian-omg, the train cake turned out great! You are so talented. I'm sure he thought it was the coolest cake ever! Awesome job! Hope you feel better this week!

Amyjersey-good luck with the job hunt! Snap outta that funk!

Hope you all are having a great week!

Morning....Amylou.....good to see you guys too...No word back (yet) from Nicole. Maybe the kids ambushed her internet while she was gone!

Did anyone watch TBL last night? I was soooooooooooo surprised that the b**** Vicki is still in the game. Man, she gets on my nerves and now we have to put up with her at least another week!

hey everyone. another day..another headache. it just seems as if the kids don't listen at all anymore. omg. totally driving me insane. if it's not 5yr old DD arguing with everything i say and completely ignoring everything i say, then it's 3yr old DS saying "no" to everything i say to him and just being stubborn and cranky.
on top of me being tired and pregnant..it seems as if i don't have a moments rest.

ok, enough of my complaining. just needed to get that out.
hope everyone has a great day.

Morning guys!

Joni- The plastic stuff helps a lot. We actually just replaced all of our windows this year, but every other year in this house we have used it, and it does make a difference on the draft.

Jillian- Oh, you are singing to the choir, girl. My kids are killing me, too.

Amylou- Great loss!!

Morning guys!

Amylou- thanks for the encouragement and I am out of the funk! Congrats on the loss! We’re weighing in about the same, want to set mini-goals??

Joni- I have been watching TBL on and off and I cannot stand her either!

Katie & Jill- hang in there with the kids! I hope it gets better. I guess it’s just a pre-Christmas thing!

Here's to a great day!

Morning....Amylou.....good to see you guys too...No word back (yet) from Nicole. Maybe the kids ambushed her internet while she was gone!

Did anyone watch TBL last night? I was soooooooooooo surprised that the b**** Vicki is still in the game. Man, she gets on my nerves and now we have to put up with her at least another week!

Ugh. Yes, I watched TBL - I can't talk about it - ARGHHH! Plus, Icky is more of a threat!

I watched too... I don't usually get to see the whole 2 hours, but since we are on repreive from soccer practice for a couple of weeks, I got to watch... I was kinda mad that I spent 2 hours and then it ended that way!!!

On another note... today my knee is killing me... I think I hurt myself trying to be Bionic Woman in the run...
Yesterday I found some chex mix and ate a bunch of it while watching the Dr. Phil show about kids that overeat...
And I can't seem to kick this cough...
Can't wait for my life to get back to "normal" - whatever that is...

Hey all! Dan I have always had trouble in that department until I added a bit of ground flaxseed to my diet.. take a look into it on the net and see what you thing. I buy it whole (cheap) and add 1 TBSP to my lunch salad ground up in a coffee grinder. I have never had troble with that bloated/heartburn/full feeling since.

Hope you all are doing well. I have been sticking to plan and doing well.. just waiting for the numbers to keep moving.

I made my own protein bar yesterday and the whole family LOVED them. I will post the recipe later as it contains no sugar, dairy, egg or nuts. (but uses soy protein.. I am sure you could substitute for dairy if you don't tolerate soy) You can bake a bunch and freeze them and take them out as needed. They contain less sugar, more REAL ingredients and are jam packed with protein. I'll type it out later if anyone is interested. gotta go chase the 2 little ones. catch you soon!

Did some investigating.... these are the facts as I have uncovered them:

On Nov 3 Nicole announced that she would be leaving one week from that day, which would have been Nov 10, for Texas. that was a week ago today. if she was going to be gone a week. then she would be getting back today. the last known post for Nicole was on Nov 5th, when she laughed at the possibility of Dan being pregnant....... sorry to bring that up again, buddy, but you threw it out there! :lol: So I am thinking she should be showing up in the next day or two right on schedule and wondering why we are in a panic.
Lettie…..you are going to make one hell of a cop!!!! I am touched…….really……..!!!! I am here, and I am fine. I have just been sooooo busy with life. I am sorry if I made anyone worry :) Things are just crazy in a house with 6 kids, a husband, two grand parents, and a sister. Everyone has gone home now and life is back to normal…..and I am pretty happy about that.

We had a wonderful trip. I did a whole lot of nothing. We really only had two full days in San Antonio…….and the first day, I stayed in my hotel room all day until dinner. I slept and watched T.V. , ordered room service and bathed and read. I so enjoyed having the day to myself. I cannot tell you the last time I had a day to myself. Probably close to NEVER. :lol:. It was good times. DH and I went to dinner on the Riverwalk, and that was very nice too. It really wouldn’t have mattered where we went though…….it was just so nice to spend time with him without the everyday stresses of family life. I felt like a different person.

I wore my big fat size 18 dress pants to our business dinners, but I didn’t really care. I am sure I could have squeezed into a 16, but I hate the muffin top. I need to re-focus and get my $hit togther, but I don’t know if today is that day or not. I do have to say that when I saw AMYLOU, I got so excited I seriously thought about trying again!!!! Girl……..I am so happy to see you!!!! Stick around, would ya?

Anyway……..I am not here to be Debbie Downer about gains and sizes…I am just happy to see you all!!!! Every day this week, I have thought about getting on here, but I kept putting it off cuz I was BURIED in work when I got home, and I was so afraid I wouldn’t be able to tear myself away. But then, today, I started reading some of your posts…..and I felt sooo good!!! I have quite a few friends in real life….but there is something about this group that just warms my heart :hug:.

And Dixie Amy…….I have no advice for you. It is soo difficult to be objective when parenting. Just keep in mind what Barbara said……….just keep loving them. Kids have to learn in their own unique ways……..and they will learn and grow up. All they really remember from we mom’s is the food and the love :) Hang in there!!!!

Jillian…….love the baby belly…..and the cake……..gorgeous!!!!

Hi Kim……..want me to send you some fingerless gloves? :lol:

Stalker Joni……….what on earth would be do without you? Sorry I sucked so bad on the Thanksgiving challenge. Want to try to Christmas? :lol: :lol: :lol: :rofl:

Katie.......how's everything?

Ok, sooo have to get back to work. Hi to all you that I dind’t take the time to shout out to…..
XOXO

Eliabeth.....I would love the recipe. Sounds like it might be a great after school snack too :)

Count me in for the recipe too!! Would love to try it...
thanks also, elizabeth, for the flaxseed thoughts.. I'll see about it...

Hey there Nicole! Welcome back.. We've missed your cheery picture!

Yes I would love to see the recipe too!

Welcome back Nicole! Everyone was lost without you! HA!

Elizabeth, Making your own protein bars sounds fascinating, and likely much cheaper than buying them.

Nicole is back! Glad you had a good time.

Amylou, What a pretty avatar picture! 4 pounds is great for a week!

Julie, I hope you feel better soon. Maybe your body just needed a couple of extra calories to help repair the damage.

They had Blazer's basketball game on and pre-empted the biggest loser. I almost had a temper tantrum when I saw that! I found it repeated on another channel later in the week, but I just can't believe they kept Vicki if they had a choice to get rid of her.

We are flying down Saturday to San Francisco and then back home the same day. My husband's uncle died, so even though we were just down for a visit, we're going back. A lot of money, but I skipped the last couple of his aunts and uncles who died just due to it is always a last minute expensive flight... So I decided awhile back next time I'd go. So now it is the next time.

Dixie Amy, Hope you are feeling less stressed about your teens. The only good thing is that they eventually grow out of being so judgement impaired. My dad says 3 bad years...

Oops - sorry about spoiling the ending of TBL for you, Barbara....

YAY NICOLE!!!! Good to have you back, girl. Thanks for the offer of fingerless gloves - my secretary has a pair on as we speak. Also, I was at Target yesterday and they had Armwarmers (WTF?) so I bought a pair to keep in my desk because my right hand was cold and blue and my left hand was normal colored and warm (I'm right handed). So, I figured - buy the armwarmers or figure out how to operate my mouse with the left hand. Spending the $$ seemed easier.

Armwarmers? Really??? :rofl:

Applesauce Spice protein bars

1 cup whey or soy protein powder (look for one without sugar)
1 cup whole wheat flour
2 cups rolled oats (not instant)
1/2 cup coarsely ground flax seed
1tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp allspice
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon of yes... pepper
1/4 cup apple butter ( I bought mine at the health food store.. organic and no sugar in it.. just apples)
1/4 cup agave nectar bought at health food store and found it to be like honey but thinner and low glycemic index)
1 1/2 cups unsweetened applesauce
1/4 cup of safflower oil or similar cooking oil
1 tbsp real vanilla

1 preheat oven to 325. mix all dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl mix well
2 Beat all wet ingredients together in another bowl until well blended.
3 add wet to dry ingredients mix until well blended
4 line a 13 x 9 inch pan with foil or parchment paper and place mixture into pan and press & smooth evenly
bake in oven 20-25 minutes until golden on top and firm in the middle
cut into bars while warm then let cool before removing. Can be frozen in wax paper then brought out as needed. Makes 18 bars.

Nutritional value:
Calories 192
fat 9g
saturated fat 1g
trans fat 0g
protein 16g WOW!
carbs 23g
Dietary fiber 6.5g
sodium 60mg
cholesterol 0mg


I has only some of the ingredients at home but it worked out to an average cost of 62c/bar, much cheaper than what I have been buying prepackaged (that are loaded with sugar, and higher in fat content)

Let me know if you try it! ps I added less spice and put in some carob chips (like chocolate but no sugar) and the kids LOVED them.

Just popped in on my way back from lunch to see that we need not file a missing persons on Nicole! horray! Nicole- I am back and ready to kick this. I had a hearing for work this morning and wore my size 20 dress pants?!?! ACK! I had to dig and dig in the back of our closet to find them. I bought them brand new right when I started LAWL last year and hoped that I would never see them again. But so be it, I looked damn good in my pants! (of course the spanx underneath never hurts)

I have to run back to the office so I'll have to catch up on everything else this evening!

I'm about to make a nice fruit and spinach smoothie in the bullet. Trust me, it's good!

Have a great Wednesday all!

Yahooo Nicole is back!! Good to see you girl. I am glad you had a nice trip. I am doing fine, just keeping my head above water, LOL.

Did I tell you guys that my mom is all done with Chemo, and that she found out she does not have to have radiation after all? The Dr. misspoke in the first place. The surgeon was able to get all of th cancer, so she does not need radiation. That was excellent news. Last night I walked over to her house and she showed me all of this black stubble growing on her head. She is getting her hair back!!!

Katie- That is probably the best news for you and your Mom especially before Christmas! My sister-in-law passed away a few years ago after struggling with cancer. It is such a terrible disease. I am so happy for your good news!

Nicole- Welcome back! It's good that you took a day off to do nothing. It's actually a hard thing to do eh?

Today one of the girls in my office brought in a banana cake with vanilla frosting. I couldn't say no but I only had a small piece...oh and I jogged on the treadmill for 40 minutes this morning so that will account for those extra few calories!!!!

Anyone start their Christmas shopping yet? I bought my first present before I came to work today. I am thinking of putting up the tree on the weekend. I usually don't do that until December but my daughter is getting very anxious.

Katie - that's good news for your mom. I've been out of the loop and didn't even know all that was going on. The big "C" scares me, but should remind us to live each day to its fullest. Also, thanks for the update on window on the plastics. I'd hate to do the work and not have it help.

Gotta go see who won the Challenge....later!

Did I tell you guys that my mom is all done with Chemo, and that she found out she does not have to have radiation after all? The Dr. misspoke in the first place. The surgeon was able to get all of th cancer, so she does not need radiation. That was excellent news. Last night I walked over to her house and she showed me all of this black stubble growing on her head. She is getting her hair back!!!

Wow Katie - that is awesome news! I'm sure she'll have a beautiful head of hair in no time.

morning everyone. here's to hoping today is a better day than yesterday..

katie--so good to hear about your mom!
nicole--good to hear from you! sounds like you had a great time in TX. :)
how's DD doing with being a mommy and school too?

well, i'm all done xmas shopping for the kids. and DH and I are getting a new TV for xmas, so that'll be our gift. plus i bought him a cuisinart griddler (a contact grill, griddle and panini press all in one! and the military version of monopoly.) just need to get a few gift card for my bros/sis/BIL/SIL's and figure out what to get my parents and i'm done.
i think we've decided to get a real tree this year since this will be our first actual tree together..for some reason the past few years we've been moving in december and haven't had a "real" xmas yet! how sad. i'm totally ready to be home for once and see the kids open their presents on xmas day in person instead of through the webcam. :)

ok..well that's about it for me today. gotta go and attend to DS..he's been extra feisty/cranky lately. apparently turning 3 isn't going well for him..or me for that matter. ha.

be back later.

Morning!

AmyJersey-yes! let's start making some progress. I haven't been so great this week. Kinda stressed since I find out my bar results tomorrow, but at least I've been watching my portions pretty carefully. But I'm ready to have a nice 2lb loss by next Tuesday. How bout you?

Katie-wow! I'm so glad to hear about your mom. You all must be so relieved.

Jillian-your first real christmas will be so much fun. I hope that you are feeling better! I can't believe you are done xmas shopping. That is amazing. I know my boss has been going on her lunch break bc she hates the crowds after thanksgiving. I haven't even started to think about what to get everyone!

Hoochie-way to jog off that banana cake! Sure sounds good!

Alright, off to work. Have a great day!

Morning guys!
Hope everyone is in store for a good day today!

Jillian-congrats on getting your shopping done. We’re (DH &I) are going low maintenance this year b/c of the wedding. It just gets too expensive. I make jewelry, so I am thinking of making jewelry for my SIL’s. The one LOVES any earrings that dangle, so there’s my in!

Amylou- I am SO in! 2 lbs (more is ok too!!) by next Tuesday. I have to work my butt off as I am going to my in-laws next week and it’s impossible to do LAWL while I am there unless I go out andbuy a weeks worth of food…

Katie- that’s great news about your mom. My mom is 55 and hasn’t ben to the doctors for a cancer screening in a few years. I really get worried about her because she lost both her parents and a number of aunts and uncles to it. It’s always great to hear a success story!

Oh, and BTW- good luck Amylou with your results! I'll say a little prayer for you today- we all know you worked hard enough for it!

Good morning everyone :)

Amylou.......so tomorrow is the big day, eh? You must be going crazy by now. I am anxious for you, but I have this feeling that you have NOTHING to worry about :) So glad you are back :)

Katie, Katie, Katie..........how wonderful!!! When my aunt lost her hair from chemo, it grew back in thick and curly. You just never know what you might get. I am thrilled for your mom that she won't have to endure radiation, and what a bonus to get her hair back. We all would like to think things like losing one's hair wouldn't be that big of a deal, but it does wear on a person after a while. What a great gift for the holidays :)

Joni.........what was the name of that back care book you mentioned, oh, a year or so ago? I think I may have to pick one up.

Jillian.........is Jag expressing his, "threedom?" Good times, good times. My DS just turned 4, and he is still expressing his. I am just waiting it out.......you know, for his logic to catch up with his emotion. I know he will get there..........but the days sure get long sometimes. Hang in there, girl. Your kids are so lucky to have you there with them. It isn't an easy job.....and the rewards are few and far between somedays.....but soo worth it :) Don't you think stay at home moms should have promotions and perks and award ceremonies? While we are working out of the house, these things can seem kind of dumb and a waste of time....but they do have a purpose. It's nice to have someone tell you you are doing a great job.........or to show you ways to do better when needed. I made myself employee of the year last year....:lol:.........I was going to make a plaque and everything!!!! Never did do it, but joked with my girlfriends about it a lot :)

Well, DH is going hunting for 10 days, and he is leaving in about an hour. I am a bit nervous about his absence, but it will be ok, right? I am woman hear me roar....:lol:. Seriously though........it could get rough. A lot of days, I am near tears by 5, just cuz there are no breaks from the constant problem solving.......and when I see DH, I just feel like I have my other half there to get me through. Even if he doens't even do anything, just having him here makes all the difference. Wish me luck!!!! OH, and I am probably going to paint my front room and family room. It has kind of become a tradition that I paint or redecorate at least one room in the house while he is away. I also had an evil thought last night........maybe I will get a puppy while he is away. :lol: He would be completely blown away.........as he is not real excited about the idea of a new dog. Who knows...........

Ok, have to get in the shower before he and DS get back from the bank. I will check in soon. Hang in there everyone :)
XOXO

Katie that is super exciting! Nice to hear some positive news.
Nicole.. you will do just fine..I understand what you mean about just 'having them there'. Let us know what you decide to decorate.. or bring home. ;)
Catch you all later.. have a super pop day!

Hello everyone

Welcome back Nicole you were sure missed :) I know what you mean about just having someone. DBF really doesn't do much but for some reason everything seems harder and overwhelming when he goes to training out of town.

*fingers crossed* for you Amylou. I'm sure you did awesome :)

Katie that is wonderful news. I bet it's a huge relief for your family.

Geez Jillian I haven't even thought about Christmas yet....I better get with the prigram here :)

So after the whole no food or refridgerator fiasco, I gained 8lbs when I WI on monday. Did a TO tues / wed and lost 5.5 by wed afternoon. SO I am hoping to be back to square 1 by Friday. I feel like it has been one thing after another getting in my way. But I am back to the gym today and POP.

Have a wonderful day everyone!!

Jillian and everyone,

I got this in an email today, and thought it was appropriate.

Lolene


REAL MOTHERS


Real Mothers don't eat quiche; they don't have time to make it.
Real Mothers know that their kitchen utensils are probably in the sandbox.
Real Mothers often have sticky floors, filthy ovens and happy kids.
Real Mothers know that dried play dough doesn't come out of carpets.

Real Mothers don't want to know what the vacuum just sucked up.

Real Mothers sometimes ask 'Why me?' and get their answer when a little voice says, 'Because I love you best.'

Real Mothers know that a child's growth is not measured by height or years or grade...It is marked by the progression of Mommy to Mom to Mother...

4 YEARS OF AGE - My Mommy can do anything!
8 YEARS OF AGE - My Mom knows a lot! A whole lot!
12 YEARS OF AGE - My Mother doesn't really know quite everything.
14 YEARS OF AGE - Naturally, Mother doesn't know that, either.
16 YEARS OF AGE - Mother? She's hopelessly old fashioned.
18 YEARS OF AGE - That old woman? She's way out of date!
25 YEARS OF AGE - Well, she might know a little bit about it.
35 YEARS OF AGE - Before we decide, let's get Mom's opinion.
45 YEARS OF AGE - Wonder what Mom would have thought about it?
65 YEARS OF AGE - Wish I could talk it over with Mom.

The beauty of a woman is not in the clothes she wears, the figure that she carries, or the way she combs her hair. The beauty of a woman must be seen from in her eyes, because that is the doorway to her heart, the place where love resides. The beauty of a woman is not in a facial mole, but true beauty in a woman is reflected in her soul. It is the caring that she lovingly gives, the passion that she shows, and the beauty of a woman with passing years only grows!

Lolene- Wow my kids are 13 and 16. Does that mean I have to wait until they are 25 before they start to understand me a little bit. Its' going to be a long haul, thanks for the warning!!!! haha

I spent the morning at the Orthodontist with my daughter, yikes those appliances(braces) are expensive. I guess it will all be worth it when her teeth are all starightened out.

Erin- I did the same thing when I went on vacation. I gained a little weight so I did the take off as soon as I got back so that when I went to weigh in I could be back to where I was. Who said losing weight was easy eh!

Well I think it will be a quiet day at the office so maybe I will start some Christmas decorating. Might be fun!
Yes Amy, the cake was great. Today somebody brought in Antipasto and crackers...tis the season!!!! My treadmill wil be calling my name all week!!!agh

Wow, thanks for sharing that Lolene. Very nice.

lolene--that was a wonderful post. thanks for sharing that. it actually made me tear up a bit...those darn pregnant hormones. :)

nicole--i totally agree with you on motivational awards, advice, ect. it would be great. i remember when i was in management with a large financial institution i would think of all kinds of things to keep my team motiviated and happy. i'm definitely up for employee of the year! :) thanks for the smile. i needed that.

can't wait to hear your bar results amy! and jerseyamy--did you get the red plan book yet? i had DH mail it out..so hopefully he remembered.

Hay ladies!

I think we should do a challenge for New Years. Anyone interested????? I need some motivation. I am maintaining. But I want to lose again. Anyone else want to? Let me know what you think?

hey ladies! and gent(s)!!

i'm new... but just wanted to say hi! hopefully you'll be seeing lots of me in here! accountability is the key!

have a great day!!

watchmeunfold(dot)wordpress(dot)com

Hey guys!
Jillian- YES! I did get it, thank you SO much! Sorry I forgot to tell you that it arrived! It’s already a big help. There are a couple things different from Blue that I was on…

Lolene- that was beautiful. Made me tear up too, and no pregnancy over here! Makes me feel bad when I get frustrated with my mom.

Nicole & Erin- I too understand the whole missing them thing. I’ve been with my DH almost 2 years now, none of which we have officially lived together! He’s from VA and I am from NJ. We went back and forth trying to figure out where we were going to live. We decided on NJ, but he hasn’t gotten a job here yet! Financially it was better for him to keep his full time job until something came up. So, I get to see him on weekends. It’s AWFUL. He leaves Sunday afternoon, and it takes me til Wednesday about to get myself back in the game. My dishes sit there, laundry doesn’t get done, I am just so depressed!

Hoochie- I remember the holidays in offices, they are the PITS! Good luck and stay strong! My secret was to eat my prepared snack, a Lite, more of my water, and a cup of coffee. If I was still hungry (which I never was) I would take something small. It always helps. I do that at home too. I finish all my water, eat some veggies, a Luna, and by that time I am stuffed.

Hope you’re having a POP day! Am off for a walk!

Welcome watch me unfold! I checked out your blog and you inspired me!

Welcome watch me unfold! I checked out your blog as well. I am excited for you! It is going to work and you know that! Congrats on jumping back in the game!

Cecilia- I am in for a New Year's Challenge!

Nicole - I like it when your DH goes away....you tend to play on here a lot!! You'll survive!! I always like to have a goal when DH leaves town....something to the house and then see if he notices! The back book I recommend is called "Treat Your Own Back" by Robin McKenzie. It's a small paperback and it really works for me. I'd loan you mine, but I actually am needing to treat my own back...it's been a real pain lately.

I'm getting excited for vacation time next week. Food, family and fun at Cape San Blas, FL. If I don't watch what I eat, my clothes won't fit...so I think I'll be somewhat careful and try to get in lots of exercise.

I'm up for a challenge...will someone run one??

Amylou....can't wait to see what tomorrow brings you. I'm sure the news will be good.

Little more work to do and then I can call it a day....

Jillian - as always, you are quite the organized one with your holiday shopping. I actually wrapped all my sister's gifts yesterday and will mail them tomorrow. That's a first for me!

later....................

Yeah! Amy you want to? I do to! What should we do? We should have a prize like Joni's did. We could all chip in or something? Hmmmm? Let me think? Anyone else interested?

I would run it but I am not even sure where to start what tools do you use to maintain it Joni?

I am in for a New Year's challenge. I have to loose some weight by the first of the year to start planning my pregnancy.

My goal in the NY Challenge may just be not to add weight.. :lol:

So.. I visited with my doctor today and he ordered a battery of blood tests to see what the deal is with my gassy problems.. He's basically checking for allergies, Celiac (which would REALLY suck) and lactose intollerance.. I have to schedule a seperate appointment for that since the test takes quite a while... Wouldn't it be just typical if I end up being allergic to green veggies?? :lol:

So anyway... We're having salad for dinner, naturally..

Have a great evening, all!

Cecilia- Sounds good to me! I guess we just start a thread? We need Nicole's advice...

Dionne- that's so exciting! I can't wait to start our family. I just need to finish school first. And I too want toget to a healthy weight before getting pregnant. I heard somewhere that a woman over 175 is more prone to serious health problems.

Amy- I do believe that the larger you are the more prone you are to health problems. I was over 180 when I got pregnant with my son and I gestional diabetics and hypertension. I weighed close to 160 when I got pregnant with my daughter and no health problems. Of course, I piled the weight on with her. So, I want to get to a really good weight before getting pregnant again.

amy and dionne--just wanted to chime in on the pregnancy weight stuff..well i was 260lbs when i found out i was pregnant with my DD and 240lbs when i found out i was pregnant with my DS. i actually didn't have any problems with my pregnancy at all...except for being hugely uncomfortable. but i also gained about 60lbs with each pregnancy. i'm starting off fairly well this time around since i'm considerably lighter..but you never know.
plus i've know a few skinny minnies that had all the pregnancy problems in the book.
just something to think about.

Welcome watchme! How are you all enjoying the evening. I am so excited and thought I would share it here, I am into my size 10 clothes again! I am so happy that i can sit for an evening and work in my good pants... now next goal is the 8's that are sitting in my basement but this is a major success as I have been in 12,13 & 14 the last few years. YAY!

I am so motivated to stick to plan when I see results. Keep at it y'all and be good to yourself! *hugs*

My goal in the NY Challenge may just be not to add weight.. :lol:

So.. I visited with my doctor today and he ordered a battery of blood tests to see what the deal is with my gassy problems.. He's basically checking for allergies, Celiac (which would REALLY suck) and lactose intollerance.. I have to schedule a seperate appointment for that since the test takes quite a while... Wouldn't it be just typical if I end up being allergic to green veggies?? :lol:

So anyway... We're having salad for dinner, naturally..

Have a great evening, all!

Celiac would not be fun! I have some friends whose son has had that since birth.... a really bad case of it. it is really difficult. knowing his situation though, I would not put money on that being your deal,

I agree, I think it is the veggies! better stick to wings!

morning everyone. fridays are my "day off" so to speak..former DH works from home on fridays (and i used to work at sbux on fridays) so he takes care of the kids on fridays and i use this as my day to rest and catch up on my errands, etc. but today i am resting. and doing absolutely nothing. :)

Nicole - You'll be fine when DH goes away - you always are, you're the supermom! Plus, we are all here to be your substitute significant other.

AmyLou - SO totally have my fingers crossed for you today!

NJAmy - Wow, I guess I didn't realize that you and DH were still split between NJ and VA. That is hard. Hopefully he will find something close soon (now wouldn't that be a nice Christmas present!)

WatchMe - Glad you found us over here. Post often - we're a fun group.

Jillian - You are done shopping?!? Yikes. My side of the family won't be bad - we pick names, so I only have to get 2 people. DH's side - now that's another matter. It's like Christmas threw up there. I have been lobbying for a new system there, but to no avail.

Cecil - I'd be up for a NYrs challenge. Somthing to keep my head in it during the holidays.

Dan - While I hope the Dr can give you an answer on your "issues", I hope that it's not Celiacs - thats tough. Hey - Did Liz start the new job yet?

Elizabeth - Way to Go on the 10s!!! It won't be long until you are sporting the size 8s.

So, my BFF got me onto Facebook - she's been posting HS pics of us and our friends and I have been laughing my A$$ off for 3 days now. What I'd give to look like that again.... without the hair and acid-wash jeans of course (although I am having a bad hair year, and I rather have the 80's hair than this current mop). But, just seeing that, and how freakin good all of my old friends still look -well, that's some serious motivation there. Called a new gym yesterday, so there's no longer any excuse not to exercise.

Good morning everyone,

I am still hanging in here.

Elizabeth- way to go on the size 10 pants!!!!

Jillian- I hope you enjoy your day off. Get some rest.

Watchme- I am glad you found us. This is a great support group.

Amylou- Let us know about your results. I am sure you did great.

AmyNJ- I hope you are having a great day.

Nicole- glad to see you back

Kim- Looking at old pictures can be so much fun. I am on Myspace and some of my old HS friends have found me. It is a hoot.
Have fun.

Julie- How are you feeling today?

To anyone else I missed- Have a great day.

Hi everyone - I've been too lazy to post lately, but have been keeping up with your posts... too many to respond to, that's GREAT!

Welcome back Nicole! You had me worried there - I thought San Antonio had swallowed you up!
Dan - good luck with the Dr - let us know how it turns out
Hoochie - which one is getting braces? the 16 or 13 yo? Sometimes it's better to get them in early - my DS started seeing the ortho at about 9, the ortho suggested pulling some baby teeth to make room and it has made a huge difference, he may never need braces now! My friends DD also see's the same ortho and he used a palate expander on her and she will never need braces now... sometimes just making the room during the growing phases makes all the difference.
Dionne - thanks for asking... my knee is killing me, I may never attempt running again. it's a good thing they got a picture of my crossing the finish, that way I have proof that at one time I DID IT!
Kim - its funny how many people find you on facebook, right? I got found by a bunch of people that I went to junior high with! I'm not very good at facebook though, I forget about it all the time! I guess I can only handle one online group at a time :)
I don't remember who mentioned the office parties - but here is my scroogy solution - I don't bring anything, that way I feel guilty if I try to go get something... I swear - these people want to have a potluck every week through November and December!
Jillian - enjoy your day off! I'm envious as I sit here at work and everyone else in the whole world took this day off - so quiet here...

Sushi for lunch today :) can't wait!

Yum - sushi.

I don't think I'll have the strength to be way active on Facebook either - can only log in from home. But for now, it's way funny!

Office food - ugh. I hardly ever go into the break room - too dangerous!

Good morning everyone!! TGIF!!

Morning all!

Yes, Kim, Liz started this week and so far, all is well.. Her office is having a pot luck for lunch today and I made some pate choux (little mini-eclairs) filled with either SF/FF chocolate pudding or Lite Cool whip for her to take.. What's scary is that I didn't even save one for myself!! While the fillings may have been diet friendly, the pastry, with 6 tsb. of butter (God help me Paula Deen!), was decidedly NOT diet friendly..

Regarding the Celiac thing.. I had it when I was very small but grew out of it, luckily... Of course I'll be REALLY bummed if it's lactose intollerance.. But I guess there are meds for that these days, right?

Morning guys!

It's snowing today! I don't know if that's a good ting or not as my DH will be on the road tonight on his way here! And I was to go antquing with my mom and sister... we'll see!

Hope you all have a great day!

good morning losers. i have been busy online today searching for a replacement flash for my digital camera. It broke a while back, and I neeeeed it to take pictures of my babies!!! the search is on...........
XOXO

Dan - my friend is lactose intolerant, but she can handle anything with whole milk - she says that the lactose intolerance thing is irritated by trying to remove the fat from dairy products, so she just uses full fat and limits herself... just an idea.

dan--i'm lactose intolerant too and switched to soy milk and just limit my dairy intake and i don't really have too much problems with it. i even switched to vegan cream cheese (it really is good!) but i did that because i'm vegetarian. i used to take these pills called Digestive Advantage Lactose Intolerance Therapy. you only have to take one pill a day unlike the Lactaid pills where you have to take one everytime you eat any dairy...which was a pain and i always forgot anyways. but with the DA pills you take it at the beginning of your day and you're set. and i think that they worked alot better too.
just a thought, if you are indeed lactose intolerant and don't want to switch to soy products.

Ok all you ingenious moms - I had a Christmas idea, but I have a problem implementing ideas - help me hash out the details. Instead of spending tons of money on crap for Christmas, I was thinking of giving my kids a coupon book - good for all kinds of fun stuff like roller skating, movies, etc... what are some other fun ideas that I can put in the coupon book? My kids would be elated to receive something like this since most days are so rushed that we don't get the chance to do some really simple fun things together - I literally pick them up from school, make dinner, MAYBE watch TV for 1/2 hour and then go to bed... This coupon book would (hopefully) encourage me to organize in advance so that i can squeeze these things in since I will have already committed to it... Any ideas?

My kids love family movie night, where we pay per view or Netflix something and cozy up on the couch with popcorn. My girls love to go to the local beauty schools with me for manis and pedis. We love to buy a few loaves of cheap bread and drive to the pond near us to feed the ducks. Also, we love to rock hound, so my kids think that it is a dream come true to go to a mine or other place to hunt for crystals. Also, the zoo, museum, and live theaters are a big hit.

BTW, really good idea Julie, I may just steal your idea!

Julie,

Not sure of the ages or genders of your kids. Mine are both boys, 13 and 16. I usually cut their hair myself, but sometimes I splurge and take them to the girl that does mine. They think they are royalty then! They also like to golf and play miniature golf. Lots of times there are a lot of free fun things to do, depending on where you live. A friend of mine told me to go to a website called About.com and search for free activities or free entertainment and your location, and it will give you a nice listing of things to do. I only tried it for New York City and there was quite a bit to do.

Let us know what you come up with.

Lolene

My oldest DS is 11, DD is 6, and youngest DS is 5...

I was thinking roller skating, movie night, dvd/pizza night, bowling, mini golf...
I was also thinking of putting some in there for making a dessert, helping with dinner - stuff that we don't usually do because I'm usually on such a tight time budget that it slows me down to have little hands in there...

One more request for info - any ideas on how to add protein to my DH's diet - he's trying to cut back but is not losing and then I realized that he's probably not getting enough protein, but he's so picky about foods!

hi, just wanted to say I love this site! I'm glad you watch TBL as I do too, and I'm hooked, and none of my friends watch it, so I have no one to discuss it with. Have a good weekend everyone. I'm off to get weighed in soon.

Terry

Just wanted to pop in and wish everyone a great weekend! I have been so busy with school/mommyhood as I just had exams and DD's 2nd birthday!

Julie
When my kids were younger we used to take an occasional "nowhere drive" we would pile in the car on a sat and the kids would take turns at every stop light or sign deciding which way to turn. If we spotted something cool to check out we just stopped and found out what it was all about. It was an adventure we once found an underground cavern that had a paddleboat on the river inside it was awesome .The only thing is I could not find it again if I wanted to ! Family night with super munchie trays with a movie. Take a muffin pan or two and fill each cup with different snacks and dips then throw blankets and pillows on the floor in front of the tv and everybody sleep on one huge pallet. "Date " coupons are fun too. Give each of the kids a coupon for a date with mom or mom and dad or just dad and they get to choose how that date is spent one on one no siblings with mom and dad. Great way to stay connected with them also. My boys still talk about the way we used to do these things and they are 19 and 21 in fact sometimes we still do such things and we started when they were about 4 or so I guess.

I PASSED the bar! I found out last night at 6pm and we left for Vegas at 9pm to meet my entire family. We had this trip planned for my grandma's 80th birthday, and I'm so glad that it worked out so we could really, realy celebrate! My parents had a bunch of surprises in store when we arrived, I can't remember the last time I've been this excited (probably since DF proposed).

Sorry so short-but I wanted to thank everyone for their positive thoughts and prayers, I can't tell you how much it means! Thank you!

I'll be back Monday to say hi to everyone! Have a great, great weekend!

Congratulations, Amylou!!!!!!!!!

Lois- I love to idea of sleeping on the pallet and the date with the kids.

Julie- We usually try to do a family game night. I know your kids are different ages but we usually find a game the little one can play. My DS is 7 and my DD is 2. We play Incredible Hulk, she loves to smash the cars. They are made of play dough. Ms DS likes to play Monopoly so we just let DD roll the dice and move when she wants to and she thinks she is really playing.

I love your idea of the coupon book. I may steal it to.

Well, I hope everyone else has a great day and I will try to check back in later.

CONGRATS AMY!!!!!!!!!!!! so excited for you! :) have fun in vegas!

here's a new picture of me taken today--i'm 17wk2d. getting bigger...it's so weird to see it. still kinda freaks me out. that and the fact that i can't believe i'm actually taking pictures of my progressing pregnancy. i wouldn't have dared to do that the last two times. yikes!

http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e161/hotwife1221/IMG_3817.jpg

Jillian - You are getting bigger in all the right places, though, so don't worry! You look terrific.

Lois - My brother is 14 years older than me and he used to do the same car thing with me (drive and let me make the decisions on where to turn) It is one of my favorite memories ever!

Jillian..........pregancy really works for you.....you look beautiful!!!!

WHOOHOOOO Amylou!!! So happy for you :)

Kids are nuts.......have to run :)
XOXO

Amylou- Yahoooooo Counselor, LOL.

Yeah!!!!!! amylou!!! I had no doubts!!!!

Amy.. CONGRATS! Jillian.. you look super! You look positively radiant! I hope you are all enjoying the weekend. I did great other than having a couple to many liquid starches the other night... I didn't eat anything off plan so if I stick to it, I hope to bounce back quickly. My best loose quick breakfast has been oatmeal and grapefruit. How 'bout you all?

Amylou you deserve to treat yourself to a day at a wonderful spa to celebrate !!! CONGRATS!!!!! Now we know where to go for legal advice ;), just teasing!
I have to share some news before I burst here. I promised to be quiet until all the major people are told but I can't stand it and I figure sharing with everyone here is relatively safe lol . My oldest son got engaged last night to the best woman I could ever ask for for him . I am so excited and happy for both of them . We call her thin mint because she is such a refreshing soul.
Well off to make some chocolate covered cherries and peanut brittle for my Christmas trays . Don't worry I don't sample I always chew gum while I bake so I can't snitch.
Hope everyone had a wonderful weekend and will have a pop week at least up until Thursday ! Just remember nothing tastes as good as the first bite so limit yourself to a couple bites of everything and savor each one without to much guilt.