WW Clubs and Groups - Fabulous 40's And Beyond~#133

Okay, Es, I took your hint and began a new one. And apparently, it's just in time, since Sandy will be celebrating her 50th also!

Es,
I think we don't realize how many people are taking antidepressants...you're definitely not alone. And yes, depression does tend to run in families. My Mom suffered from manic depression, my brother was being treated for depression when he committed suicide in '94, and my younger sister is on meds. Hang in there, if you want to talk, email me.

Sandy,
If we don't "see" you here soon, please enjoy your birthday, and celebrate! :hb: :hb: Hope all is well with you.

Janie,
Definitely very short notice on that houseguest! I'll bet Ellen would love the snow. I'm glad I grew up with the change of 4 seasons, drastic tho they may be here in the midwest. It's only recently that we're not enjoying winter so much anymore :lol:

have a great Friday evening!

~Jen

Cool name Jen. :) Yes we did go along way with our other thread. We're all getting close to 50 so this is perfect.

Hugs,
Es

I love the new name. I have a few years to be "beyond" the 40-something but it's good to know that y'all will all be here with me. :D

Tomorrow is my WI. Of course, I hopped on the scale and it doesn't look like it moved so I'm stressing. We'll see tomorrow morning. I have a nail appt at 8am, WW at 9:30am and a hair appt for my highlights and a cut at 11am. A very busy morning.

Dianne ~ your birthday sounded great. I'm glad to hear that turning 50 wasn't as bad as you expected. I am dreading it and I have some years to go. Thanks for easing my mind. :)

Sorry I have to run but I'll be back tomorrow to check in and let you all know how WI went. Wish my luck. I'm trying to lose another 20 lbs by the time we go on our cruise in February. Think I can do it????? FUN IN THE SUN!!

Love you's guys,
Me <><

Hi guys :wave:

Jen - thanks for the name change - it sounds cool! And since Sandy's turning 50 next week, I don't feel so bad about asking you to change it:smug: Looks like we have a few December babies here - Janie, isn't your birthday on a very special day? Christmas?

Sandy, It was great to hear from you. Hope all is well and in case you don't get back here til after next week --- :hb: :gift: :hat: I wish you a very happy 50th birthday!

Es - I'm sorry to hear you're feeling down, amiga- it seems to happen to us in turns. Don't feel bad about taking meds, as long as it makes you feel better. If you want to talk, e-mail me. I hope you're feeling better soon sweetie :grouphug:. Alana's doing fine, thanks for asking - she is at a "semi-formal" tonight with her "friend" Casey.:dizzy:

Jen - I'm so sorry to hear about your brother :grouphug:. I lost my brother when he was only 20 years old to the same thing. Very scary, very sad.

Hey ZoeGirl - Good luck with wi tomorrow!!!

Janie - don't feel guilty - 6 hrs. is REALLLLLLLLLLLY short notice. I'm sure she understands that and appreciates what you guys are doing for her. I hope Ellen does get to see some snow. I love the snow (when it first falls that is :D )

Hi Terri and Ruth - hope you guys are doing well.

Have a great weekend - hope to get back here on Sunday. Tomorrow's "Cabaret"!

Hugs to all of you,

Dianne

Hi :wave:


It's not as bad as it sounds(my depression) but it's not me. I'm pretty happy most of the time but then I noticed this change in me that got a little scary. I tried to fight it & I would be okay one day then back to "that other person" the next day!:lol: It's only temporary. Dr. says it's very common. There's kids on antidepressants.:( Now that's very sad. Thanks for all your kind words. I really love you guys.

Jen, how old was your brother? So sorry. That must have been so devasting for you & your family. One of my sisters tried to commit suicide 2 yrs. ago(alcoholic) Any time she goes thru a disappointment in her life, we start worrying about her.

Dianne, have fun today. Thanks for the {{{hug}}}. I felt it. ;)

Ruth & Terri, hope to hear from you soon.

Zoe, you are too funny. You remind me of me when I was going to meetings. I would stress the day before & usually it wasn't all that bad. You're doing great. Just don't starve yourself to lose 20 more lbs. We want you healthy. Busy day huh.

Well, buddies, I'll be out most of the day. We're picking up the tree this afternoon. Can't wait. I love putting it up but hate taking it down. Every year I have to chase my cat cause she loves to chew on the pine needles that fall off. 17 yrs. old & she's still a brat but still cute.

Have a great day!

Hugs,
Es

Hello Friends :wave:

Just got in from shopping. Late, because I wanted to be home to watch "It's a Wonderful Life" and it's already started. Can't stay tonight but wanted you to know that my WI went good. I lost 1.8 lbs for a grand total of 29 lbs in 14 weeks. Woo Hoo. My next mini goal was to lose 30 lbs by our company Christmas party. That party is next Friday night so I think I am going to consider that goal met. :D

Hope you're all having a great night. Talk to you's tomorrow.

Me <><
199.4/170.4/148-ish

Zoe,
Once again, congrats!! This is beginning to be like a habit :lol:
You're doing great, and have every reason to be proud. Way to go on the Christmas party goal! :cp:

Es,
We're going thru so many changes at this age, it's not surprising that emotions/moods are also affected. We've all been there, like it or not. Recognizing it is important, so you're doing the right thing. This is our first Christmas without Alex, our cat from ****, since he went to live with Jess and her family back in May. First time in 15 years I can put bows on the presents under the tree! He used to chew on them all night long :lol:

Dianne,
How was Cabaret? I love musicals, live theatre....it just seems that we don't make the effort to go often enough! We didn't watch the Sopranos last night cause the family was here; we'll catch it tomorrow night when it's replayed. Can't wait!

Yesterday Joe and Jessica did their annual father-daughter Christmas shopping day. Brandon spent the day with me while Matthew stayed at home w/his dad. All week long I've been putting off decorating the tree, it sat with only lights on it. I realized that I was sad because all those years of decorating with the kids are over. While it's the natural progression of life, and they should move on to their own trees and traditions, it hit me hard that now they're both gone. Brandon was more than happy to help me decorate the tree, we had a wonderful day. And the bonus....he did a great job! I've already asked him if he'll help next year.

We switched over to dsl service for our computer (no more aol! yay)....once again teaching this old dog new tricks :dizzy: Did a major revision of our home office, adding a new scanner, new filing cabinets, etc. As a result, I've got lots of unpacking and organizing to do today.

Well, I'm going to go before I write a book...have a great Monday!

~Jen

Hey there my buds:

Jen - Cabaret was good, a little raunchy, but fun. Willie continued with his "surpises" though. As we were sitting waiting for the show to begin, I looked down to hear the usher giving instructions to a couple as to where their seats were located and lo and behold they were my cousin and his wife all the way from Puerto Rico!!! I thought I was seeing things. Then after the play, we went to dinner with them and lo and behold again - there was Lisa (Willie's daughter) and her husband and our son, Justin sitting at the table waiting for us:dizzy: Willie had lots of secret phone calls during the week before, that's for sure! It was a great evening.

Speaking of Justin and surprises, he plays with the Columbia University Jazz band and once a month they play at a club in the city called Smokes. I go sometimes, but Willie goes EVERY time:lol: Well, anyway, usually at some point the director of the band introduces the members and when he did so, he left Justin out of the introduction. So, Willie being the ever-vigilante daddy, yelled out something like "what about the drummer?":s: At that point, the director says "Don't worry, I'm on top of that"... then he proceeds to announce to everyone that Justin has won the "Louis Armstrong Jazz Scholarship for $10,000.00!! Well, Willie said Justin looked like he was in shock and Willie
got all teary-eyed:smug: How :cool: is that? Wish I would have been there. Anyway, that was my wonderful weekend.

Jen - so cute that Brandon helped with the tree, so now you've started a new tradition;) As for the Sopranos, there were a couple of surprises, let me know what you thought of it after you see it.

Hi Es - how are you doing? Did you get your tree yet? I usually get mine a few days before Xmas, cause I keep it up until 3 kings day and I don't want it to dry out.

ZoeGirl - Congrats on those 29 lost pounds - you are doing an amazing job! :bravo:

Hey Terri, Ruth, Janie and Sandy - how are you all doing?

Well, gotta get back to work - have a great day everyone!

Whoops! Hey Janie, you snuck in on me, :lol: Happy Birthday to your Dad :hb:

Hugs,
Dianne

Zoe,
Congratulations You are awesome!!

Sandy,
:hat: :hb: :hat: Happy Birthday. Glad to see you back.

Dianne,
Yes thankyou for remembering. My birthday is on the 25th, and my dad's 79th is today!

Es,
Don't feel bad about taking antidepressants. I have been taking them for several years. I don't really notice a big difference, but Steve says it's like day and night. I have aslo heard that it is genetic. My mom certainly suffers although she would never admit it. I occasionally wonder how my childhood would have been different if she had recognized her problem and treated it.

Everyone,
I just got a new computer at work and for some reason all of my addressbook got lost. I now have Jen's e-mail but I am missing everyone elses. Please ( if you don't mind ) could you either post it or for more privacy e-mail me directly at dignon@llnl.gov

Happy Monday,
JanieD

Hi :wave:

Dianne, you had the greatest birthday ever. Gosh, that was so sweet of Willie. What a guy. But then again you deserved it. I know if we lived close to eachother we'd be hangin;) If I ever go to the city I'll go check out Justin. Who knows maybe we'll meet one of these days. Our tree is up. I finished it yesterday. I love the smell when I walk in the door.

Jen, I'm glad you didn't have to decorate the tree by yourself. Brandon must have loved it when you told him he can help you next year. I don't remember my Dad taking me shopping, just the two of us. We were close when I was really small then when I became a teenager(smartie pants) we weren't close at all. Thank God we got really close when I became an adult. I miss alot.

Janie, believe it or not I think that the "happy pills" are working. I feel much better. I remember my mom being depressed alot but we never talked about it. I'm definitely going thru mood swings. Just like my weight, up & down, up & down. :lol: I'll send you my email later when I have more time.

Pete should be calling soon.

Hugs,
Es

Check out my brother's website:

www.studio1fit.com

Hi everyone!
My e-mail is terrmor@knology.net
Es,
I know so many people on antidepressants. Bruce was for awhile.
If it makes you feel better then that is what you have to do.
Good luck.

I didn't get a chance to read everything yet. I will catch up tomorrow. I am still here. It is late now though so I will "talk" to y'all tomorrow.

Luv ya!

Dianne,
How cool that Willie surprised you like that! Justin's scholarship is awesome!!! :cp: :cp: I'll bet he's on cloud 9!

Es,
Tony's website is great. I wish him much success. :D
Jess and Joe began the shopping day about 5 years ago; she loves it, as he will usually buy her a few things...this year it was a down jacket. That's bigger $ than he usually does, but they're struggling financially and she really needed it.

later,
~Jen

Hello everyone :wave:

I'm here for a moment.....didn't want you's to think I was MIA. This is such a busy time of year. This is a week of conserving food since our company Christmas party is Friday night. The problem is that it's the night before WI. I'm afraid..... :yikes: I think I stress too much. :lol:

I'm sorry that I haven't really be 'chatting' lately but have been reading everything. I will be 'back' again soon. Have a wonderful week.

Love you's guys,
Me <><

Es,
Loved the website. thanks for sharing

Dianne,
What a husband. That is great! Congrats to Justin. You must be so proud.

Jen.
That is so cute about Brandon. I am hating the growing up and leaving thing. I will be so SAD!!!!!!! I feel for you!!!!!!!!!!!
But it looks like a new generation is starting. That is a great thing.

JanieD,
Ellen will love that. Mine see snow at Christmas in Ohio.
Hope she enjoys it.
I wouldn't be able to handle an unexpected guest. You did great!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SANDY!!!!!! :hb:

Hi guys:

I'm really busy, but wanted to say a quick hi to everyone and to wish Sandy a very Happy Birthday :hb: :hat: :gift:

Will check in with you's later or tomorrow my friends.

Hugs,
Dianne

Happy Birthday Sandy. :hb: :balloons:
Doing anything special?

Terri, thanks for checking out the website. You too Jen.:grouphug:

He's working so hard to have it opened by Jan. 4th. He keeps saying he wants me to manage it but I can't give up my job. I'll help him out Fridays & Saturdays. This is his dream come true. I'm very happy for him.

Zoe, now this time of year is really hard for me. Too many goodies everywhere we go. I haven't exercised in a week. Gotta get my butt in gear. I've been so busy but that's no excuse. I have to make time.

I feel so bad for David. He went out on a date. They were planning to go to a lounge but his date asked him would he mind if they went dancing instead. When he came out his window was broken & his radio, coat & sweater was stolen. Now, I was going to buy him a CD player for Christmas. He just finished paying bills so he was short of money so I gave him the money to fix his window. That's the money I had set aside for his gift. :(

Always something. I thank God he's okay & they didn't beat him up for it. It could have been worse.

Well, I'm going to start wrapping a few gifts.

Have a nice evening my friends.

Janie, I'm essie426@aol.com

Hugs,
Es

Es,
That just stinks about David's care being broken into. My niece's ex- boyfriend was shot and killed this year when he confronted thieves who were breaking into his car. Thank God David wasn't around when it happened, you're so right about it could have been much worse.

It's so cool that you'll be helping your brother on the weekends. You've always been the exerciser in our group, you know you'll get back to it.

~Jen

Hi Buds,:o

Thank you so much for the birthday wishes, I think all your cakes came through the ether and landed right here, caloriewise. I had a fairly good birthday considering the events of the day. But I only had 2 real cakes to contend with (thank goodness). But I couldn't say no to sampling them especially to the homemade one. We are delaying celebrating with the whole family until David, my older son gets home from college for Christmas. We will probably go out for dinner then. Mike, my husband, was rehearsing for a Christmas concert last night and I had to chair the meeting of our church board.
I was surprised to find the minister had arranged for one of the church ladies to make a cake for the meeting. It was really something to have the whole board singing happy birthday as we began what I was afraid would be a grueling evening. The meeting actually went well, we had to spend some time discussing a church employee who may eventually be demoted or let go. Everyone was quite caring in their approach as to how to handle the situation.

The reason that I had stayed away from you guys for so long was that November was a really tough month for me. My Dad, who has suffered from Parkinson's for about 14 years, lost his battle and died on November 10th. We were also in the midst of Greg, practicing for his part in "The Odd Couple". Between those two events, I felt swamped.
Things are slowly getting back to normal, and here are the holidays!

I'll have to try to catch up with all of you later. Be Well!


Hugs,Sandy

Sandy.
I am so sorry about your dad. I wish we were there for you.
It must have been so tough. My prayers are with your family.
Have you seen the Odd Couple yet? I'll bet he does great. Tell him congrats again. Happy Birthday again. It was great they all remembered you.

Jen.
That is awful about your niece's boyfriend. Was your niece there?

Es,
That is great that you will help out. So sorry about David. That must have been scary. I have 1 thing stolen before out of my car and it made me soooo mad. I can't imagine this.
TTYL,
Terri

Sandy,
I'm very sorry about your Dad. You are in my thoughts. Glad to hear you had a good birthday. Was the play already performed, or is it coming up?

Terri,
My niece's boyfriend was her first love, from 6th grade thru senior year; I really don't know why they broke up, but they had remained good friends. In fact, his family asked her to come and be with them throughout the wake, funeral, etc. Thank God she was not with him when it happened. Such a tragic loss, and to make it even worse, if that's possible, is that they never knew who did it.

We're having a "heat wave" here, in the upper 40's and sunny, it's really beautiful. I'm heading outside for a walk, to see if I remember how :rolleyes:

HI :wave: to everyone!!
~Jen

Mornin' everyone:

Sandy - So sorry to hear about your father. My thoughts are with you and your family. How was your birthday?

Es - Sorry to hear about David's troubles. What creeps! But thank God, he wasn't there while it was happening. I haven't been able to open up your brother's site - don't know why, but all I get is a black screen :?:

Jen - So sad about your neice's ex-boyfriend too. Its too bad the bad guys weren't caught - maybe someday.

Well, we're making contingency plans here in NY for a possible transit strike on Monday -- I like my university's plan - we will CLOSE :D Well, our Brooklyn campus will close - Long Island and Westchester campuses will remain open. All finals will be rescheduled, etc. If that actually happens for a week, then I'll actually be off for 3 weeks with the holiday break in there as well:devil: I know I shouldn't sound sooooo happy, but 3 weeks would sure be cool! I'm sure last minute Sunday nite they will reach an agreement.

Well, gotta run - hi ZoeGirl, Terri, Ruth and Janie!!

Hugs,
Dianne

Hi Buddies,:wave:

Thanks again for your kind wishes. We are all coming along ok now.

Es, I hope you will be feeling well soon, keep checking in here for support, this is one of the kindest places on the web. I wanted to chime in...Thank God, David didn't have to confront the thieves.

Jen, that was simply dreadful about your niece's ex-boyfriend. My heart goes out to his family and friends.

Dianne, Willie is so thoughtful, you are really lucky, sounds like you had lots of fun. Congrats to Justin.:cloud9:

We also get our tree really late, as we keep it until Jan 6th too.
So we are just starting to get ready. Usually my birthday is when we get started with decorating and lights. In my neighborhood, everyone else puts their lights up the Sat after Thanksgiving.

Greg was absolutely fabulous as Felix Unger. The performances were on November 21, 22, 23. On the third night almost all of our extended family came to see him. We had 27 seats in the 3-5th rows. The little cousins were thrilled to see Greg up on stage, and after the performance they were all having our future star sign their programs.
I think that Greg is finding some of the celebrity factor at the high school hard to deal with. People he doesn't know are all coming up to him and still congratulating him or quoting back lines from the play.

Zoe, :bravo:
You are in high gear, congrats on your WW success! A new wardrobe for Christmas, perchance?

I am getting back on track, I tried a new breakfast, a light yogurt and wheat germ. I want to at least hold the line during the holidays.


Hi Janie, Ruth, Teri, and everyone:goodvibes:

Sandy

Sandy, so sorry for the loss of your Dad. I lost both my parents & I will always miss them. Especially around the holidays. It must have been exciting seeing Greg up on that stage. Good going on getting back on track. ;)

Dianne, I can't understand why you can't get into my brother's website. I'll have to check it out. I'm so glad I work out here & not in the city. If they do strike it's going to be a nightmare. Like you said, they'll probably settle at that last minute. It would be nice to be off for 3 weeks. :)

Jen, so many tragedies. Most of the time it's the young people. A secretary I work with, her nephew was shot while he was at a stop sign & they never caught who did it. He was 23 yrs. old. How was your walk. I gave my sister Walk Away the Pounds for her birthday & she hasn't mentioned anything about it. They're probably still wrapped!

I'm looking forward to tomorrow. At 10:00 I have an appt. with my hairdresser & then in the afternoon I'm going to spend it with David Christmas shopping. I love when just the two of us hang out. I'm going to try & finish it all by tomorrow. I don't have much left.

Have a nice evening everybody:wave:

Love,
Es

Es,
Have fun shopping with David tomorrow! That's the best of Christmas...with someone we love, and finishing the gift-buying :D Yep, I've got to begin again with the Walk Away The Pounds videos...I feel so good when I do them!

Sandy,
Sounds as though you've got a budding actor on your hands. What a great review! I loved what you said, "this is one of the kindest places on the web".....I feel exactly the same about everyone here :grouphug:

Dianne,
Fingers crossed that you get more time off :lol: but also that Es can get where she needs to go! Are the two of you geographically close? Is it possible to get together, have you ever done so? It would be so cool to do lunch w/someone from this thread!

Shopping is finished:D :D :D :D Now to clean, then do some baking next week. I am only keeping one plate of cookies for Joe and I...the rest I'll give to Jess, Joey, and bring to my brother's on Christmas. I'll cut back on what I bake, but it wouldn't be Christmas without cookies on Christmas Eve.

~Jen

Happy Friday!

Jen, I don't have to commute. I work 20 minutes away from where I live. I'm in Eastern Long Island, Suffolk County. Dianne is West, Nassau County or is it Queens? We're about 1 hour away from eachother, which isn't much. I never go into the city. I'm a real country girl. It would be nice to meet someday. Yum. Christmas cookies:T What kind do you bake?

Sandy, I love it here. I check out other websites but I never post. These are my girls;)

Well, I have a busy day ahead of me. I'll be back tonight.

Have a great day.:wave:

Hugs,
Es

Awfully quiet around here. :(

Es, you're right it's too quiet around here!

This evening we're going to Joey's for fondue...he's also invited my brother and SIL, first time they're seeing his apt. Joey wasn't even going to get a tree until his sister bugged him about it :lol:
It should be a nice evening, I'm looking forward to it.

Hope everyone is enjoying their weekend.....ho ho ho

~Jen

Hi everyone ~

This sure is a busy time of year. I just keep going and going and going......we had our annual company Christmas party Friday night and I wasn't happy that it was the night before my weigh in but what could I do :?: As it turned out, I only lost .8 but I guess losing anything at this time of year is good. There are foods and desserts ALL OVER THE PLACE!!! I hope I can survive the next few weeks. :^:

Sandy ~ sorry I missed your birthday. Hope you had a great one. :gift: :hat: :balloons: :hb:

Gotta run. Another Christmas party at 6pm. Have a great Sunday afternoon and I'll be back tomorrow for sure.

Love you's guys,
Me <><

Hey you's guys :wave:

ZoeGirl - you party animal you! :hat: Sounds like you're having a good time. Losing .8, especially at this time of year is great girl! Its so hard with all the food around.

The women in my office and in other departments in the University get together and go out for a holiday dinner every year - there's about 10-12 of us. We have a great time and by the time we're on our second drink, we're talking about everyone's boss and whomever, lol. Its our time to let loose after all the tension going on at work. This year, one of the vice presidents who usually gives each of us an amazon gift certificate decided he wanted to pay for our dinner instead. Well, it came to a little over $400!! We thought that was really generous of him. Let's see what happens next year:s:

So how is everyone else doing? Everyone done with their shopping? I haven't started:o But since I made the HUGE decision (and believe me it was a huge decision) to give gift certificates and money, I don't have to do much else. Something for Willie and a couple of things for Justin and Alana to open up on Christmas morning - we're giving them money too.

Hi Es, Jen, Terri, Ruth, Sandy and Janie - hope everyone's okay. It is kind of quiet around here lately - such a busy time of the year. Well, we'll find out tonight after midnight whether we can get to work tomorrow or not. I'm pretty sure they will NOT strike. There will be huge fines associated with striking for everyone involved.

I hope to get back in here tomorrow - have a great Monday everyone!

Hugs,
Dianne

Zoe,,
Wow, you had a partying weekend! Hope they were fun...you did remarkably well, losing during the holidays, no matter the amount! Did you end up buying a new outfit/dress after all?

Dianne,,
I checked cnn.com this a.m. and read that the transit strike had been averted....good news and bad, right? At least you do get some time off for Christmas break.
That was very generous of that vice-pres. to foot the bill for your holiday dinner...hope it was good :D

I'm really kind of freaking out that this Christmas is stress-free! I thought last year's was good, as it was the first Christmas since 1987 that I wasn't having it at my house....but this year has it beat due to the fact that I began my shopping back in Sept. After working retail for 24 years :eek: I finally realized that it's the only way to go.........early!!!

Hope all of you are enjoying this beautiful season of hope and joy.

~Jen

Hi Buddies:wave:

Stopping by to say a quick hello. Been busy & I still have 2 or 3 last minute gifts but I'll wait till Friday to pick them up.

Haven't been OP. I'll start over Jan. 1st. I've been feeling fine otherwise.

Dianne, that was very nice of your boss. The 2 attorney's I work with took me out to lunch today. It was nice. I had chicken fingers:eek: but they were delicious.:T

Jen, it's great finishing all your shopping early. I just have to buy pants & a dress shirt for David.

Hope everybody is doing well.

Hugs,
Es

:grouphug:

HI EVERYONE!!!!!

Sorry I have been absent. t has been BUSY! We had the Sunday school parties and now all the school projects and parties. Lets see that is 14 teachers total for three children.
Thank goodness for a wonderful dollar discount store. They have some cute things like mugs (I bought 4 of them) and then I buy candy or tea and put in them.
Has anyone seen the Christmas Shoes, The Locket and The Man Who Saved Christmas? They were all CBS Sunday night movies.
We watched all of them and I am tired of crying. :lol:

Zoe,
Great loss. Especially after a party.

Jen,
I stopped a few things this year to make it less stressful.
It feels good. I used to worry about where we went and what time we got there when we are in Ohio especially with his side of the family. I finally said STOP. This is not only Christmas but it is our vacation from a stressful and busy Fall. We told everyone that we will decide when we do things and not to TELL us where to go and on what day. His dad used to get all stressed out if we weren't there at certain times. We still do the obligatory parties and such but everyday things have got to less stringent. It worked last year and it was so much better. We travel back and forth between our two houses. Our parents live 10 miles apart. Toward the end Bruce usually keeps the boys at his moms and I take Brittany down to my moms
and it is peaceful and we do lots of girl talk. I still see the boys every day but at night we separate. It is so funny when we do that I miss them. Never at total peace are we. :lol:

That Fondue sounded good.

Sandy,
CONGRATS to your son. Sounds like the Odd Couple was a lot of fun.

Es,
Hope you had fun shopping with David. FUN!!!!!

Dianne,
I am so glad there was no strike. That would have brought N.Y. to a halt. What a mess that would have been.
That dinner sounds like a blast. I miss that. I used to do that when I worked. That was always a perk.

I am all done with gifts and wrapping. We had our early Christmas last Saturday. The kids had a blast. We went to our favorite Chinese Buffet that night and we thought of Ralphie and the Christmas Story. LOVE THAT MOVIE!!! Bruce got me an MP3 Player deluxe model. I wished he wouldn't have spent so much.
I can't wait to start downloading all my stuff on it.
Britts gets out at 11:30 today and so we will do our annual lunch
together. We do this every year because the boys have a half day tomorrow and everyone gets home at noon so today it is just her and I. Tomorrow I have to make a breakfast casserole for Bradley's party and Brandon's I am taking Winter Lucky Charms. They are having breakfast parties. All breakfast food. I love that idea. We will leave for Ohio on Saturday.

I hope eveyone has a wonderful Thursday. I am getting some low point comfort snacks for my 3 hour Survivor night. I hope Clay doesn't win. I can't wait to see how Jan looks off the Island. I can't believe she is only 53. She looks a lot older.

Terri,
You're so smart to put limits on the madness....it will really help make the holiday more enjoyable. You'll have a great time on your vacation. How's your Dad coming along? Perhaps your FIL will realize that it's the company that counts...not the schedules.
I remember fondly the days back when the kids were in school; that really contributes to the holiday madness. Now that they're gone, I love this part also...a neat house, no pressure. Every stage of our lives brings newfound pleasures. ;) If I don't see you here, have a SAFE TRIP and a wonderful Christmas with your family.

Es,
I have not been OP either. Once again I'm looking forward to the 1st of the year, with determination and optimism.

Tomorrow evening my niece is having an ornament exchange. It's alot of fun, Jess and I will drive into the city for that while Gramps stays here with Brandon and Matt (her husband works 3 to 11).
Then on Saturday evening I'll drive into the city (again!!) for our annual Christmas Mexican dinner at the home of my good friend, Tonia. She's been hosting this dinner for about 5 years now, for 6 of us who used to work together. I'm looking forward to seeing everyone....not to mention her delicious cooking. :D

My washer broke on Monday :( and it really ticks me off, as it's only 3 years old this month. The previous washer I had bought when I was pregnant w/Joey lasted 20 years. The repairman is coming this afternoon, I'm keeping my fingers crossed that it won't be something major.

:wave: HI to everyone...Dianne, Janie, Sandy, Zoe, Ruth !

love,
~Jen

Hi guys :wave:

Terri - Congrats on finishing up with everything - lucky you! If we don't see you here in the next couple of days, I want to wish you and your family the best of holidays and happy, happy new year!

Jen - I guess I'm #3 to join the "January 1st fresh starters". Its just too hard right now with the holidays. That ornament party sounds like fun. Hope your machine gets repaired quick - what a pain.

Hi Es, mi amiga, what's up?

Hi to Zoe, Janie, Sandy, Ruth (did I miss anyone?, if so please forgive me).

Talk to you's soon.

Hugs,
Dianne

Hi Buddies:wave: we've all been so busy we're not posting as much. Once the holidays are over I'll be back daily. I miss coming here.

I'm finally done. I have to exchange two gifts. It's a long story but they were for my sister's adopted daughters. I decided I'd rather give them money. (15 yrs old & 19)

I haven't gained or lost. I ate quite a bit of chocolate this week. I've decided to give it up till Christmas. LOL Someone at work gave me some & I'm giving it away. If I don't you know what will happen. :chockiss:

Jen, you do alot of fun things. My life is dull. Work & home then shopping on the weekends. I need a hobby. What's going on with your washer? I hope it's fixable.

Dianne, you busy girl you. How's Willie doing? Did Alana come home? I'm full of questions. :lol:

Ruth, I hope all is well with you & your family.:wave:

Let me go get ready to go to the madhouse(Macy's) and exchange the gifts. Have a great day everybody.

Love you's,
Es

Hello friends :wave:

Just a quick note. I've been running for what seems like weeks. Oh, I guess it HAS been weeks. :lol:

Today was wiegh in and I was SHOCKED to see that I lost 2.4 lbs!!
Holy Cow, am I dancing around or what???!!!??? :cb: :dance: :cb: This after a week with *2* parties, one that was our own. So my grand total is now up to 32.2 lbs.

I pray that you're all doing well and not stressing in the holiday rush. Have a wonderful Saturday and blessed Lord's day tomorrow. I'll be back soon.

Zoe <><

Hi everyone.
First Congrats to you Zoe. You are doing great. Great start for the new year.

Es,
Money is great. I can't think of 1 teen who wouldn't want money. I know Britts loves it. Good luck with the chocolate.


Jen,
I am so soryy about the washer. I hate when that crap happens. Remember last year my fridge broke a week before Christmas? What great timing.

The ornament exchange sounds cute. Like my mug exchange.
Hope you got a cute one.


Thanks for the well wishes guys. I am in OHIO right now. We left at 10:30 A.M. central time and got here at 8:00 P.M. eastern time. Took us 8.5 hours and that is with 2 stops. Not bad.
I guess it didn't seem as long with the memory of the Colorado
trip fresh in my mind.
I hope you all have a great Christmas.

Love you all,
Terri

Morning everyone:

ZoeGirl - you are amazing -losing weight with all those parties! You must be on :cloud9: Congrats girl!

Terri - glad to hear you all got to Ohio safely. I wish you all a wonderful Christmas with your family.

Es - YIKES - Macy's! Try to just run in and run back out
:lol: Yep, money and teens definitely go together. Yesterday was my grandson David's first birthday - can you believe a year went by so fast. Didn't want him to get gypped so he had to get Christmas and birthday presents! Too many kids in this family:s:
Willie's doing well, thank God. I think I told you they transferred him temporarily to JFK, which is 8 mins. by car, so he's very happy with that. Alana is home, except not exactly - you see her "friend" Casey lives in Staten Island and so does her sister Lisa. So she conveniently got dropped off at her sisters house instead of coming straight home, so that she and Casey could get together over the weekend. I told her sister, you'll be seeing a lot more of Alana then you're used to :s:!!

Jen - Is your machine fixed? How was your dinner with friends?
How was Joey's party?

Hey Janie, Ruth and Sandy - how are you guys?

Well, have to go to Lisa's to pick up Alana today so I get to see Jessapig - that's what alana calls her, Lisa has a fit when she says that :lol: Also we'll finally pick up a tree, about time, right?

I hope you all have a great Sunday. I'm off now for 2 weeks - YAY!!!

Talk to you's soon.

Hugs,
Dianne

Hi Dianne,
That little David sounds so cute. Have fun with everyone. Sounds like you will. That is great that Willy is so close now.


Brittany and I and my sister went to her church this morning and then we went to lunch at Max and Ermas. I miss that place.
We had a nice girls afternoon out. Bruce and Danny took the boys to an arcade/eating place. They had a blast.
We are leaving for my mom and dads place tomorrow. It is about 2.5 hours away.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------


A Dieter's Christmas

'Twas the night before Christmas and all round my hips
were Dove Chocolate candies that sneaked past my lips.
Fudge brownies were stored in the freezer with care
in hopes that my thighs would forget they were there.

While Mama in her girdle and I in chinstraps
had just settled down to sugar-borne naps.
When out in the pantry there arose such a clatter
I sprang from my bed to see what was the matter.

Away to the kitchen I flew like a flash
tore open the icebox then threw up the sash.
The marshmallow look of the new-fallen snow
sent thoughts of a binge to my body below.

When what to my wandering eyes should appear:
a marzipan Santa with eight chocolate reindeer!
That huge chunk of candy so luscious and slick
I knew in a second that I'd wind up sick.

The sweet-coated Santa, those sugared reindeer
I closed my eyes tightly but still I could hear;
On Pritzker, on Stillman, on weak one, on TOPS
a Weight Watcher dropout from sugar detox.

From the top of the scales to the top of the hall
now dash away pounds now dash away all.
Dressed up in Lane Bryant from my head to nightdress
my clothes were all bulging from too much excess.

My droll little mouth and my round little belly
they shook when I laughed like a bowl full of jelly.
I spoke not a word but went straight to my work
ate all of the candy then turned with a jerk.

And laying a finger beside my heartburn
I gave a quick nod toward the bedroom I turned.
I eased into bed, to the heavens I cry
if temptation's removed I'll get thin by and by.

And I mumbled again as I turned for the night
in the morning I'll starve... 'till I take that first bite!






TTYL,
Terri

Terri,
that poem is too cute :) hope your visits go well, glad you made it there safely. I like Max & Erma's also, Joe and I were just there last week.

Dianne,
can't believe that baby David is one already! Glad Willie's doing well. Enjoy your two weeks off.

Es,
I give money to all the kids over 13...it's so much easier and they prefer it that way.

Zoe,
awesome loss, you're doing so well!!! :D :cp: :cp:

To all of my dear friends here....Terri, Es, Dianne, Zoe, Janie, Sandy, Ruth...... I wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas....may Santa be good to you....and may we all continue to live in Peace.

love,
~Jen

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL MY FRIENDS,

Jen, Dianne, Terri, Zoe, Ruth & Sandy.

Wishing you all a blessed holiday.

Love, Essie

Morning guys:


Just wanted to pop in and wish all of my buddies, Es, Jen, Zoe, Terri, Janie, Ruth and Sandy a very MERRY and BLESSED Christmas !!!

And Janie - in case I can't get in tomorrow, I wanted to wish you a very Happy Birthday!! :hat: :hb: :gift:

Hugs,
Dianne

Oops, I almost forgot your birthday Janie. Happy Birthday!!!!

Hi Buddies, :wave:

I hope you are all having a wonderful Christmas.

We have my mom staying with us for the holidays, otherwise she would be alone in her house. We aren't quite snowbound, but we chose to stay home today and enjoy the warmth, each other's company, our new toys, and a great big nonprogram Christmas feast. Everyone is really sleepy and content. We will ease back into reality tomorrow.

:grouphug:

A happy and healthy New Year too!

Sandy

P.S. How do you do all those cute pics?

Hi:wave:

Boy, did we get hit with a lot of snow!!! I could not believe it. I wasn't expecting this much. I live in Eastern Long Island so we always get alot.

Sandy, good to hear from you. I got so many nice gifts. I'm off for the next few days so I'm enjoying it. Enjoy your time with your Mom.

Dianne, how's the snow out by you? We must have at least 12".

I haven't counted points in over a month. Is WW changing anything? I'm joining Jan. 2nd just to get the new materials & use up the coupons I have left. I have no motivation. Maybe the meetings will help.

I'll be back later.

Love you all,
Es

Hi all,:wave:
I want to learn to do pics, so this is an experiment.

More talk later,
Sandy
http://home.attbi.com/~sandyboz/wsb/media/141216/site1.gif

My house, but 2 years ago, not the current snowstorm!
We only got 7 inches yesterday
http://home.attbi.com/~sandyboz/wsb/media/141216/site1002_t.jpg

Hi everyone :wave:

We awoke to a beautiful white Christmas, but only 2 inches worth, thank goodness, not like what Es, Dianne, and Sandy got!!

We went to my brother's yesterday, there were about 30 of us. A wonderful day, I am very lucky. It's a shame that the day after isn't a holiday also; it was hard for Joe to get up and out this morning.

I'll begin WW again after the 1st also....haven't decided if I'll do so online or go to meetings. My daughter is talking about joining online. Es, you were using that, weren't you? Do you weigh in once a week? Do you report it to them? I'm not familiar with how it works. I did look at the etools, but am too cheap to pay for WW and that also.

later,
~Jen

Hello:)

Jen, I was doing WW Online. It wasn't for me. I didn't see much of a difference than if I wasn't paying. I know lots of people that like it. You weigh in once a week on the same day.

I went to my brother's house today. All the kids were talking to me at the same time. :dizzy: There were toys everywhere!! They are so cute. The gift that I bought for the baby has to go back to ToyRUs. Her aunt bought her the same thing! I'll exchange it tomorrow.

Sandy, we took pictures this morning of the snow. It looks so pretty. It's going to melt fast cause the next few days it's not going to be that cold.

Have a nice evening everybody. :wave:

Hugs,
Es

Hi. I hope everyone had a great Christmas. We did. Tomorrow we are going to 7 Springs Ski Resort in Pennsylvania. We are tubing with my sister and the rest of our friends and family (20 people) are skiing. We will wait for them in the lodge.
We only got a dusting. It passed us right over. Hope everyone is safe.
I am on my in-laws computer. I will check in periodically.
Jen,
I am one of those people who like on-line. Good luck with your decision.
My dad looks so frail. He is strong though.

I will talk to y'all later.
Terri

Terri,
Tubing sounds like fun; we've got a toboggan but that's kind of limiting, as it's best used in the runs made for them. I think I'm going to use online, mainly cause it's less expensive. I've given WW sooo much money over the years :rolleyes:

Have a couple of returns to make today, but they're all at Barnes & Noble, so it'll be fun. I could live in a bookstore :lol:

later,
~Jen

Hi Girls:wave:

Jen, I would join WW online if I were you. If you don't want to go to meetings that's the way to go. Me on the other hand, am so not into it that I don't think anything will work for me right now. I'm sure if I were in a right frame of mind to lose weight I would have stayed with it. Every little bit helps so go for it. ;)

Terri, PA is so beautiful. My sister lived there for 8 yrs. We use to visit at least once a month & I always looked forward to it. Hope you have a nice time. What you said about your Dad, at least he has his strength. God bless him.:angel:

I stayed home all day today. There was too much ice outside. Pete slid twice. When he told me that I said forget it, I'm staying home. I'll run my errands tomorrow.

Dave gave me a 17" monitor for Christmas & I love it!! I'll be online quite a bit the next few days.

Hugs,
Es

Merry, Merry After Christmas everyone!!! Sorry I've been MIA. It's been a hectic few weeks but I think I'm finally going to be slowing down now. I know that I haven't been posting much over this holiday but I think about you all and you've been in my prayers.

Today was weigh in and I was nervous. I really "went off" program this week but you know, my usual "MO" is to gain 10-12 lbs during the holidays so I was going to be thrilled no matter what....but I was more than thrilled.....I actually LOST "point 4" and I did the biggest and longest :dance: you can imagine. My total now is 32.6 and I am so close to goal ~ Maybe about 15-19 lbs, I'm not sure yet.

I've read all your posts and your holiday's sounded so wonderful. I pray that you all have a joyous, healthy and prosperous New Year. I love you all ~ I couldn't have come this far without all your cheers, pats and the back and 'dances" you've done for me. :D

I'll be back tomorrow to write more..........

Me <><

Congrats Zoe. You did great!!!!!!

Es,
Great gift. Such a nice son.

Jen,
The Tubing was fun. I hope you like On-Line. I do.

Hope everyone has a great New Year.
Terri

Hi Girls,

Zoe, I can not get over how fast & how much you're losing. I remember Terri was the same way. Do you stay hungry? My problem is I don't eat foods that are filling. WW has something called In the Groove. What is that?

Terri, my family wanted to go tubing. Sounds like alot of fun. How's Brittany doing? Give her my regards.:wave:

So I'm back to Optimum online. It's fast. No waiting for a dial up & the line being busy. David's going to teach me how to download music. I'll probably get hooked. :lol:

Ruth, I sent you an email with my new address & it came back mailer unknown. Are you with AOL? I'll send you a private message.

Janie, I need your's also. How are you?

I went to JCPenny yesterday & it was just as crowded as it was before Christmas. I left right away & of course you know who wanted to shop! I sware I think he's a shopoholic.(sp?)

Gotta go. Have a nice day.

Till later.

Love,
Es

Good morning :)

Well, I did it.....I couldn't wait for the 1st, so I joined WW online this morning, and weighed in :( (but we won't even go there!)

I love the tons of info and tools available for me to use. It seems that there's more than I ever received at any meeting.

Zoe, once again... :cp: :cp: you're doing so well!!

My best friend's dad passed away yesterday, this after losing her mom back in April...what a horrible year for her. They were both elderly, and ill, and living with her for the last 3 years, so it really is a blessing in that respect.

It's 50 degrees here this morning!!! A real heat wave....and I'm going to sign off here and go take a walk. :D

later,
~Jen

Hello! :wave:

I've read your messages and you all sound so supportive. I joined WW over a year ago, and when I stick to it, it works for me. That is, when I stick to it. :( I guess you could say that I'm looking for support for those down and out times.

I'm getting over a bad head cold, and have lost a few pounds due to a serious lack of appetite. I did manage to drink lots of fluids, though. Since I really haven't gotten the appetite back yet (this includes my craving for sweets), I thought this would be a great time to get back into the swing and jump in with both feet.
:dancer:

I look forward to hearing your words of wisdom and I hope I can contribute some of my own from time to time. I hope you all have a happy, joyous and safe New Year's Eve celebration.
:hat:

LeeAnn

Welcome to our group LeeAnn. I've been struggling with WW for quite some time but refuse to quit.:nono: We're here for you. I'm going to rejoin in a couple of days. I like to exercise so that has helped me maintain. I'm sure you'll like it here. ;)

Jen, glad you like WW online.

Does anybody know the In the Groove is? I saw the commercial.

Well, have a lot to do tonight. I'm having New Years at my place. A small group.

Till tomorrow.:wave:

Hugs,
Es

Good Evening everyone ~

I went to work this morning, only to leave around 11:30am for the day. I had a horrible headache and sinus pressure. I had a low fever last night and felt like I was coming down with a cold. But right now, it's not too bad so I'm hoping that coming home today and resting did the trick.

LeeAnn ~ Welcome to our wonderful group. Like Es said, you will surely love it here. So many of us have been in this group for a year or more and even when we don't do too well, we stick with and by each other. We're just great friends here and glad that you want to join in. I've had my share of struggles over the 3 years I've been here. Right now, I'm doing extremely well and happy to say it's not been too much of a struggle. Let us hear from you and all about yourself. And again, we're glad you're here.

Es ~ That "In the Groove" looks like it's a book of some sort, for new enrollees. It wasn't mentioned at my meeting on Saturday but I will check into it when I go next week. Let me know how to start liking exercise, k?? :rolleyes:

Jen ~ WTG on joining WW online. Don't worry about your weigh in. I know that when I got on the scale at my first WW meeting and saw that I was only "point something" away from 200 lbs, I was upset but hey, you're on your way DOWN now and I'm here to cheer you one. Go Jen, go Jen, go Jen....:D

Terri ~ I've always wanted to go tubing. When I went on my canoe trip last during the summer, there were a bunch of tubers on the river and it looked like so much fun.

Well, that's it for now. I'm going to relax so that I'm completely well tomorrow morning for work.

Hi to the rest of you's guys. Have a great New Year's eve and a healthy and prosperous New Year!!

Here's to 2003:D

We're going to be healthy & successful.

Zoe, thata girl.:cb: I love your positive attitude. About exercise, I know that if I ever stopped my weight will go up. Not only that, I'm around people that are really into it, like my husband & brother. My brother's gym opens up Jan. 4th. I'll be helping him out so I need to stay in shape. Becuase of exercise my good cholesterol is always high which my dr. said it's higher than anyone she knows. (good thing) Hope you're feeling better.

Jen, ineresting tips for WW online? I'm going back Thursday. I hope I don't change my mind:rolleyes:

Terri, Dianne, Janie, Sandy, Ruth, Zoe & Jen Have a Healthy & Happy New Year!

Love you all,
Essie

LeeAnn,
Es and Zoe have pretty much summed it up...this is the BEST thread anywhere. Period. :D :D Good luck!

Es,
I'm still checking out the online stuff...I really like the journal, and there are lots of recipes I want to try.

Zoe,
thanks for the cheer :D If I can be half as successful as you've been, it'll be great!

Joe and I will be home alone this evening to welcome in the New Year. The kids are coming tomorrow for dinner.

:wave: HI to Terri, Dianne, Janie, Sandy, Ruth...

A very Happy and Healthy New Year to all of you!

love,
~Jen

Hello All!
I've been lurking for awhile, and now feel ready to come out of the shadows....You all sound so supportive and enthusiastic! I can't help believe that my wieght loss efforts would only be enhanced with some group support. I would also like to be able to offer the same encouragement and support to others as well.
There may be one slight problem....I'm not quite a "fabulous 40+" yet....39 this year (2003)....let me know if that is a problem and if it is where do I find a thread such as this one???
Hoping to hear from you soon...
Cindy

Welcome to our group Cindy. I wish I was 39 again.<sigh> I've gotten so much support here. These girls are alot of fun. When it gets down to business we all step in & help eachother.

Well ladies, again, Happy New Year to All My Wonderful Friends.

Hugs,
:grouphug:

:hat: :hat: HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! :balloons: :balloons:

May this be the best ever...good health and much happiness to all of my friends here!

Cindy, Lou Who...cute name and welcome! Age doesn't matter, tho, of course, I'd love to be 39 instead of 49! :lol: A fellow Illinoisan...I'm in Wheeling, nw of Chicago, where are you? Everyone here is very friendly, and most importantly, supportive.

How is everyone? Wow this place certainly looks different, doesn't it? Talk about a Fresh Start for a new year...and you all know how I feel about fresh starts :lol:

Have a great New Year's Day,
~Jen

:balloons: HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Thanks so much for the words of welcome! I'm glad to be here and hope I can offer encouragement and support to you all too!

I am relatively new to Illinois Jen, my 3 children and I moved to Kewanee (about 3 hr. west of Chicago) in Spetember 2001, I got married to my "Amecian boy" in October of the same year. I am originally from B.C. Canada and met my husband online, and after going back and forth for 2 years we decided to get married. The last year has been one of big adjustment for myself and my kids (I have almost 13yr. old twin boys and an almost 8 yr. old girl) but now we are finally starting to feel "at home".
I am from the Rocky Mountain region of Canada so the landscape of Illinois has taken some getting used to.:dizzy: :)
Anyway now that things are settling down and I've started a new job (in October) I am ready to resume my weight loss efforts.
I lost about 25 pounds three years ago and want to lose another 60. I have lost and gained back the same 10 pounds for the last two years and now I'm ready to get off my behind and finally "JUST DO IT!"
My plan is to follow the WW point plan and to walk. I work in a school as a special ed. aide and have access to the gym everyday and 25 laps is equivilent to a mile. My plan is to get in 75 laps a day! Fortunately I have great support at work and have 2 other ladies who are more than happy to join me!
SO here's to the new year, new possiblilites and "fresh starts" (love your name too Jen ;) ...I'll check in regularily

Cheers!
Cindy

Happy, Happy, Happy New Year!!!!!

I hope that today is the start to a wonderful year for all of you, my friends.

I just got in from the mall....some major sales going on now. Greg is on the golf course, as usual but should be in any minute now. I don't know what we'll do, if anything today.


Cindy ~ Welcome to our wonderful group. Oh, to be 39 again. :D We're all great friends here and can always use another one to cheer us on or give us a pep talk. I hope that you start that walking ~ I wish I could get started. My resolution for this new year is exercise.....starting slow but getting started. I've lost about 33 lbs in the last 4 months and I really need some toning and all around exercise. Again, welcome!

Es ~ change your mind?? :nono: Not with us here to cheer you on. :) Thursday is the day for many, many people and we here in the FAB 40's & Beyond are going to conquer this year. I won't forget to find out about that little booklet on Saturday when I go to WI.

Jen ~ Don't you just love FRESH STARTS? :D This is going to be the year of success for all of us. How is your friend doing now? I pray that she and her family are getting through this rough time.

Hi to everyone else. Hope your New Year's Eve was wonderful and fun and that you all have a healthy and prosperous 2003.

Zoe <>< Soaking up the "SON" in Texas
199.4/166.8/148-ish

Hi Girls:wave:

Sorry to say I'm not going to rejoin today. I'm not saying I'm not rejoining at all it's just that I have to feel ready. I've joined too many times in the past & didn't go back. This time once I do it there's no quitting till I lose at least my 10%.

After I sign off I'll do some cardio then I'll take my tree down.:( We're suppose to get snow AGAIN!

There's this big article in the newspaper today about fitness. Can't wait to read it.

I'll be back later.

Have a nice day everybody;)

Love,
Es

Hi Buddies,

Welcome to our new friends, Cindy LouWho and Leann:dancer:

We really started the New Year off with a bang, we were at 3 parties between New Year's Eve and New Year's day.:hat: :hat: :hat:. Nothing wild, just lots of good friends from our church. We were also kidless for the duration, as both of our sons had parties with friends. We regrouped last night and all had dinner together.
We have had so many food oriented occasions lately, I will be so relieved to rejoin the WW effort. I am looking forward to going to meetings again. I think I need the accountability of the weigh ins and the motivation of the group effort. The other thing I really like about the meetings is that every week is a fresh start! I will do the best I can each week, and put it behind me and start with a new 7 days. When I am doing it on my own, I tend to look at the whole big picture and it can be overwhelming.

I wish a healthy, safe and joyful year to all my friends here; Es, Jen, Teri, Dianne, Ruth, Zoe and Jane, and new buddies, Cindy and Leann

http://home.attbi.com/~sandyboz/wsb/media/141216/site1004.jpg

Es,
You will do it when you're ready. In the meantime you are exercising.....which is so important and so hard for many of us to commit to. :strong: good for you!! :D

Sandy,
Thanks for the new year greetings! The start of a new year is inspirational, good luck :D

Cindy,
Your plan for walking is great! Having buddies to encourage you is so important. The Flatlands of Illinois must take some getting used to....on the other hand, I freak in hilly/mountainous areas, am afraid of heights :lol:

Zoe,
My friend is doing well, thank you for asking. You have done so well the last 4 months, I'm proud of you. Thank you for the inspiration you've given us!

We had a nice family dinner yesterday, keeping with my Mom's New Year's tradition we had a baked ham. When the kids left I gave them all the Christmas goodies that had "mysteriously" appeared here....cookies, candy, etc.....so I will not be tempted. Still trying to get my sweet tooth under control.

HI :wave: Terri, Dianne, Janie, Ruth, LeeAnn.

~Jen

Zoe -- sorry to hear about the sinus headache. I've had those myself and know how painful they can be. I hope you're feeling better. :^:

Sorry I haven't written since my first post, but for the first time ever I actually had plans for New Years and I wasn't online. Went to the Fireside Theatre in Ft. Atkinson, WI, for lunch and a show, then went to a friend's house for movies, good company, and a relaxing evening. The next day I hit just a few of the sales.

A little about myself. I'm 40, turning 41 in March. I'm single w/no kids, work full-time at the local community college as a secretary, I go to school full-time for a BS-MIT (bachelor's in management information technology) in an accelerated program, and help out my mom and aunt as much as I can. While there is alot of school work to do, I occasionally go out with friends. :dizzy:

I have four cats but would love to eventually get a dog when I get a house. Right now I live in an apartment. I'm also a card-carrying chocoholic, which has to be my greatest struggle with weight loss. When I have time (translated as sticking to my schedule), I sew my own clothes and love reading mystery novels.

Thanks again for the warm welcome. I am looking forward to getting to know you all.

I hope you all have a great day.

LeeAnn

LeeAnn, I am 48 turning 49 in April. I've been happily married 22 yrs. to a wonderful man. He raised my son who is 31 yrs. old now. I have a cat(Fluffy) 17 yrs. old & a Chihuahua(Susie) 10 yrs. old. I'm a legal secretary. I've been a WW practically all my life. I'm 5'2 & currently weigh 178. Not to brag or anything I carry my weight well. It's all because of the exercise.

Jen, New Years when David left after 12:00 I sent him with goodies also. We both love sweets. I had baked a cake & told him to take the rest home.

Sandy, you party animal:lol: My church has a huge dinner at the end of January. They pay for everything. We look forward to it every year. I will go back to WW meetings eventually. I have to find one that I like. It would have to be Sat. or Friday. I have to lose 30 lbs. I have to lose at least 10 before I renew my license in April. If not, I have to look at that picture(round face) for the next 4 yrs. :eek:

Hi Terri:wave: Ruth, where are you? I saw you & Dianne online this morning. I tried to create a private chat room but it didn't work. :(

We need to set a time one weekend to chat. I think that would be so cool.

Well, buds, till later or tomorrow.

Hugs,
Es
:grouphug:

HAPPY NEW YEAR MY BUDDIES!!! :hat: :grouphug: I wish you all a healthy, happy and loving 2003!

Welcome to Lee Ann and Cindy - glad to have you join us. I, too, wish I was 39 again :D

ZoeGirl - You must be on :cloud9: and doing happy dances all over the place. You really do inspire the rest of us girl:)

Es - mi amiga, you're right about waiting until you're ready - otherwise, it won't make sense. Its so great that you have the whole exercise thing going for you. I wish your brother much success with his gym! Sorry I didn't see you on-line this morning - it may have been Willie on my screen - he just closes up any message from people he doesn't recognize - Sorry! We should all set up a date/time to chat - it would be fun.

Jen - You're right to send those goodies packing:lol: Let them (the kids) get fat, just kidding. Sorry to hear about your friend's loss.

Well, I started fresh today and Willie is joining me in the battle. I will probably go back to meetings soon, but for now, I'm just going to count my points and start using the "walk away the pounds" tapes again.

Hi Terri, Sandy, Janie and Ruth :wave:

Well, its late (its actually tomorrow) and I'm gonna get my butt to bed. We spent 3 hrs in the movies :yikes: watching Gangs of NY - very violent film, but Daniel Day Lewis was excellent.

Okay guys, I'll talk to you's tomorrow - Cindy and Lee Ann, we say "you's" in here, its our little inside joke.

Hugs,
Dianne

Dianne, mi amiga, WTG with starting fresh. Alot of people that I know are starting different kinds of diets. Most of them are doing Atkins. I'll stick with WW. I'm really not a meat eater. How's Willie doing? Pete wants to see that movie. Maybe we'll go Sunday. Is it snowing by you?

I am counting my points & I'm getting back into my Firm tapes & my treadmill. Weekends I guess I'll be working out at my brother's gym while I help him out. I did slack up alot during the holidays but no biggie Fresh Start for 2003.:)

I will be staying home today. Weather is crappy. They're predicting icey conditions.

My buddies, have a nice day.

Love,
Es

Hello my wonderful friends :wave:

I've been dragging this week with a cold/flu thing. I am going into work today but I think I'll leave early, come home and rest. I don't get sick too often but when I do, wham, I seem to get all the things I didn't have. :(

Es ~ You are taking the right approach. Joining WW when you're not ready is only going to set you up for failure. Believe me, I know. It has taken me almost 3 years since being here in this group, to get myself "wanting" to do it. All the other times I've joined (I have each card from each time), I only stuck with it for a month, maybe 6 weeks. So just go with your own feeling and you'll know when you're ready. You have one really good thing on your side and that is that you exercise. You inspire me andf I'm hoping that your inspiration is enough to get me started with some sort of exercise program for 2003.

Dianne, my friend.....so glad to see you. I think we all feel that FRESH START feeling now and I really believe that we'll all succeed. It's nice that Willie is doing it with you. Greg is OP too but not WW so it makes it a little more difficult but we get by. :) Oh, and I sent my goodies to work on Tuesday. Let THEM have the added pounds, huh....... :lol:

LeeAnn ~ So glad you posted again. Sew your own clothes?? Wow, you are energetic! I have a sewing machine (a soar subject in my house) but never use it. You seem to have a busy life. Be sure to make time for us......you're gonna love it here.

Jen ~ we had ham (spiral) for New Year's too. I don't ever make ham, I don't know why, cuz I really like it. We each get a spiral ham from our job at Christmas so we use it on New Year's and give the other one away. :?: Crazy , huh?

Sandy ~ you party animal! :lol: Now that all the festivities are over, you can rest up. You must be exhausted. I know I was just reading. Ha!!

Hi Terri, Janie, Ruth and Cindy ~ hope everyone has a great Friday. Hopefully, I'll be coming home early today and sleeping some, getting rid of this cold. (Oh, my nose is so red)

Talk to you's guys later.

Zoe <>< Soaking up the "SON" in Texas
199.4/166.8/148-ish

Dianne,
Good for you and Willie! It should be easier with both of you eating the same things...which is why I chose WW ( the first time :rolleyes: ) when the kids were little, so I could cook the same meal for us all. I have you to thank for the walk away the pounds tapes, which are so cool. Still haven't even attempted the 3 mile walk yet...the 2 mile is a killer right now for me! Hopefully it'll be a piece of cake by the time I can walk outdoors again. Good luck :D

Zoe,
Awww.. feel better, sending good vibes your way.. :goodvibes: Take care of yourself and relax this weekend!

Es,
It'll be so cool to work out in your brother's gym. Between that and what you're doing at home, you'll keep the title of Exercise Queen here. I've always kind of considered Terri the Points Queen, as she lost and reached goal first...you're the exercise expert, and I can tell you won't let us down. It looks like you're getting hit with lots of snow again? We've been lucky so far.

LeeAnn,
You must be incredibly busy with working full time and attending school full time, that's great! A bit about myself: I'm in a suburb of Chicago, am turning 50 :eek: in May, married 31 yrs. to Joe :love: , have two adult kids, Jessica is 28, (mother of Brandon,7, and Matthew,2, but thinks he's 7) and Joey, who's 24 and single. I'm currently temporarily "retired" from my job of 24 yrs....have knocked around taking some classes at our local community college and doing volunteer work for our village. I love to garden and read; have joined WW more times than I can honestly count. Am in week 1 doing it online this time and so far so good, am trying to concentrate on the big picture..just eating healthy and getting in exercise.

Have to drive into the city this morning for the funeral of my friend's father. Then look for a birthday gift for my brother, we're having dinner with them tomorrow evening...my first eating out challenge since I restarted. He's talking about a seafood restaurant, so that should make it a bit easier.

have a wonderful Friday...HI to everyone!!!
~Jen

Es – :wave: Glad to meet you. I’ve discovered that, for myself, if I my heart isn’t in what I’m doing, I’m very rarely successful. Very smart to wait to rejoin WW until you’re ready. Good for you on exercising and best of luck to your brother on his gym! Wish I could get into the “exercise” thing. I’m still trying to find something I enjoy doing so I won’t get bored. :rolleyes:

You know, I never thought about sending stuff home with people to get it out of the house. See? You guys are already giving me helpful ideas. :dizzy:

Dianne – :cp: Good for you on your fresh start. Do you really like the WATP tape? Is this an audio or video? I’ve seen it mentioned before, but really don’t know anything about it.

Zoe – Drink lots and lots of fluids and get lots of rest!!! It seems like the viruses going around are more difficult to get rid of unless you take the time you need to get better. :o

Jen – :wave: Glad to meet you as well. How did you get to temporary “retirement” status? That sure does sound nice. I’m also in week 1 of WW yet again. My sister in TX and I are trying to support each other. Actually, she’s the one who emailed me the address for this web site. Support certainly seems to be a key to weight loss for most.

Yesterday wasn’t so great. I miscalculated and didn’t eat enough protein for lunch. By the time I got home from work, I was ravenous. Ate absolutely everything in sight. :moo: So, I’m now 9.5 points behind. I’m determined to make it up by the end of the week (Wednesday), but I’m a little disappointed in myself that I didn’t plan better. Oh well, live and learn. I’ve readjusted my menus so I shouldn’t have the same problem today.

Hope everyone has a terrific Friday.

:grouphug:

HI everyone, Happy New Year!!!

Sorry I haven'e been here in a while. I have been down lately with all the Mom junk. I consequently had not been staying OP at all. Actually gained quite a bit of my wieght back since the fall (15 lbs). It is a New Year and I am determined to get back to where I belong.

I haven't had a chance to catch up on all of the posts but I feel better just getting back here with all you loosers ;) I missed you.

Welcome to our new friend!!!

More later after I catch up on the posts.

-JanieD

Janie:wave: I was thinking about you. Glad you're back with us. I missed you. I've stayed the same but it got out of hand over the holidays with chocolate! We're all getting back on track. Zoe on the other hand, has been our Rock! She is steadily losing.

LeeAnn, my downfall is sweets. That's why I give stuff away because if not I'll eat it all. I'd rather give up a plate of food to have 2 cups of light ice cream or skim milk with a sleeve of cookies. I won't do that but I would like to.:lol: Sometimes if I know I ate more than I should have I'll exercise a little harder. Those tapes that Jen has may be good for you. I bought them for my sister but she hates exercise. I don't think she even took them out of the wrapper & I gave them to her in October! They're called Walk Away The Pounds. I don't know if you have a Cosco or BJ's where you live but they sell them for a great price. Walmart may have them too.

Jen, thanks for thinking of me as the Exercise Queen.:lol: I've been exercising since 1988. I was always dieting & starving myself. Before my job moved they built a women's gym right up the block so I decided to join. That's when it all started. I changed the shape of my body & had definition in my legs! I liked what I saw & how it made me feel & I got hooked. I have my lazy days but them I get right back into it. I can't stop for too long cause then I don't feel right. If I lived close to all of you I would be picking you all up to go for walks.:D:strong:

Till later:wave:

Love,
Essie

Hello All!
I'm sorry I haven't posted in a few days, but my computer at home has DIED! I don't know what happened...it was working fine and then boom, decided it couldn't detect a modem anymore!
We have been trying to figure it out for the last two days but still are not having any luck.
I am writing a quick note from work today cuz I don't want you to forget that I'm here!:spin:
So far so good with week 1 on WW. (Just from home) I'm writing down EVERYTHING that is going into my mouth and I did get my walk in today and yesterday. I don't like going out in the cold so I probably won't get any exercise in this weekend. I so do appreciate the access I have to the gym at work!
So hopefully we will get our computer back this weekend and I will be able respond with a better post....but for now, know I'm thinking of you all, and wishing I could get in here more often!

Have a FAN-TAB-U-LOUS weekend!
Cheers,
Cindy

Hi guys :wave:

Just chillin' with willie today - we were supposed to pick up Alana from her sister Lisa's today, but we didn't want to go out in this lousy weather. Now, it looks like tomorrow will be worse:( She's visiting her sister a lot more now that her "friend" Casey also lives in Staten Island.

Casey came to visit us last week and I don't know about you, but I felt a bit uncomfortable when he and Alana were watching t.v. and he was "laying down" on my sofa:s: I mean he's nice and all, but I would never lay down on my boyfriends sofa the first time I visited his parents - you????!!! I mean they weren't doing anything wrong, and Alana was sitting up (she ain't crazy:p ) but it just seemed really nervy to me. Also, I knew Willie would be coming home and would probably not be happy about seeing this guy on the couch! Its hard enough for him to realize Alana is growing up and has a boyfriend!

Es - It just starting snowing here, but its supposed to get worse. Do you have snow by you? Willie's doing great, thanks for asking. He's so funny with the points, he keeps saying "okay, what can I eat now":lol: Maybe it will keep me on track, keeping him on track!

Jen - I haven't done the 3 mile walk away the pounds tape yet either - in fact, I now have to start over with the 1 mile tape. But that's okay, like we love to say in here "thank God for fresh starts".

ZoeGirl - Hope you feel better soon - take care of you! It is a lot easier with willie being OP with me, but, lol, he never had a choice - when I do ww, he does ww, lol. Actually, he has been bugging me recently to get back OP because he likes the way we eat when I do ww, and he loses too, which is an added bonus.

Well, today's the last day of my holiday break - I go back on Monday, it was fun while it lasted.

Lee Ann - I work at a University too and we have something else in common - mystery books - I love them. I have read all of James Patterson's books - do you read him? I do like the WATP tapes (video). There are 3 of them - 1 mile, 2 miles and 3 miles. They also came with some blue balls that you fill with water, but that did NOT work out well for me, so I gave up the blue balls, lol. I like them because my favorite exercise is walking and since its hard to do that in the winter, this is perfect for me. I gave then to my sister for xmas too.

Hi Terri (how are you doing?), Ruth (are you back at school?), Janie (glad to see you back here, girl), Sandy (have you stopped partying yet, lol?) and Cindy(how's your 1st week on ww going?).

Will talk to you's guys soon.

Hugs,
Dianne

It is so cool to see all the posts here!

Dianne,
I definitely agree with you, it would make me uncomfortable to have the boyfriend laying around; kids today are different tho....geezzzz that makes me sound OLD!! :lol: they're much more laid-back than we were, don't you think? My Mom really stressed what was "proper" and we didn't dare veer from that.

Es,
Give me sweets anytime! I'd gladly forego a dinner for some chocolate or pie. And oh, how I wish we could walk together!!!

LeeAnn,
The WalkAwayThePounds tapes are great, especially for those of us in the dead cold of winter. I bought my 3pk of vhs online at Amazon for about $30, and they came with the blueballs that Dianne was talking about. (Which I don't use either, I use my handweights if I want the added workout) BUT WAIT!!! Yesterday at Best Buy I saw the 1mile and 2 mile workouts on one dvd for $9.99 that's a great deal. They then have the 3mile workout on another dvd for the same price. If you're thinking of getting them, you should buy them there.
My "retirement" was my way of saying I Quit...was burned out after 24 years of customer service, plus we weren't paying tuition anymore for the kids, which was the reason I went to work in the first place. I don't collect a pension yet, am too young :D I'll have to get a job soon, tho, as: a.) I miss getting out every day and b.) miss the extra $$$

Janie,
Good to hear from you! I was mortified to weigh in and find I had gained 12 pounds since summer ended :o but we're putting that behind us in the new year, right? Good luck, keep in touch :)

Cindy,
Our puter did that also, couldn't detect a modem. We had to go buy a separate, "free standing" modem as the one inside the cpu wouldn't work anymore. My son did it all for us, thank goodness...he's our "tech support" :lol: good luck with yours.

okay, I've written a book!
Terri, hope your trip home is safe. Ruth, do you go back to class on Monday? Sandy, HI! Zoe, hope you are feeling better :flow2:

~Jen

Hi Girls:wave:

Today is my brother's Grand Opening. I'm a little worried about him cause he hasn't had any sleep since yesterday.:tired: I spoke to my SIL before & she's worried about him too. I'll get on his case when I get there:lol:

We didn't get the snow they had predicted. We got a dusting.

Jen, I got WATP for $20 at BJ's. All three of them with the balls. They're on VHS. My sister called me before & I asked her how did she like the tapes. She hasn't tried them yet.:mad: I asked her about the blue balls & she asked what blue balls!(heeellloooo)
I guess that was a waste of money. If I could retire I'd be buffed cause I would always be in the gym.:strong:

Dianne, I remember years ago, David brought a girl that he only knew for 1 week & she layed down in his bed to watch TV!! You know I had to say something.

LouWho, I hope you get your computer fixed soon. Way To Go with your journaling.

I'll be back this evening.

Have a great day:)

Love,
Es
:barbell:

Hello All!

My dh fixed our computer! :cb: I came home from work yesterday and it was all OK! This man never ceases to amaze me!

Jen - These walking tapes you are taling about....are they "follow along " tapes? Are you actually walking in the livingroom to the tape? At first I thought you were talking about cassette tapes you plugged into a walkman as you walked....guess I was wrong. Who hosts them? I'll have to have a look for them when I'm out today. Although the only place there is to go here is WalMart....I will have a look though.

Dianne - I agree, that scenario would make me abit uncomfortable as well, how old is your daughter? I can remember such strick rules my mother had for my sister and I when we dated. I was NOT ALLOWED to take a boy into my room, even if the door stayed open....big no no and I can still remember the first time I brought a boy home. I think I gave him a list of the way he needed to "behave" when he met my parents. LOL I do not have teenagers yet (close, in 2 months my twin boys will be 13! :eek: ) but I'm sure I'll be into situations that I shake my head at one day as well...

Well, I'm on day four of my first week of WW. I kinda went off track last night, I know why it happens. I get lazy. Friday nights I'm home with the kids while hubby goes off to work the night shift. It's just easier to make something quick (and usually in the high fat catergory) and that's what I ended up doing last night *sigh* However, I am back on track this morning and not beating myself up over my indulgence. I weigh in Wednesday mornings (at home) and then I'll see if any damage has been done.
My motivation and determination are strong today so I'm sure the weekend will be a good one.

I know that I can be successful on WW. It's a program that I can live with, REAL FOOD, REAL LIFE, REAL RESULTS , :)

And being able to come here and sit at my computer keyboard and freely "vent" I find very liberating! Thank you all!

Cheers! :wave:
Cindy
:)

Good morning to everyone!!! :wave:

Hope everyone is doing well, feeling great, and generally having a super day!

Dianne – Haven’t read any James Patterson. My favorite is Lilian Jackson Braun’s The Cat Who series. I’ve got them all, including the cookbook, the companion book and just recently a collection of short and tall tales. Since I’m partial to cats, these are right up my alley. :D Thanks for the info on the WATP videos. I’ll be investigating them very soon. I also agree with you about the boyfriend on the couch. It would definitely make me feel uncomfortable.

Jen – Thanks for the heads up on WATP. 24 years in customer service??? My, you have patience!!! :angel: I would say the break is well deserved. I understand your feelings on both missing the $$$ and getting out of the house. If I stay home on a week vacation, by the end I’m just about stir crazy. It isn’t that I don’t have things to do or hobbies to pursue, but it’s nice interacting with people.

Es – How did your brother’s grand opening go??? :strong:

Well, I weighed myself this a.m. (couldn’t resist). I’m down 2 and my “official" weigh-in day isn’t until Thursday. Now, if I can just maintain this 2 down through WI, I’d be ecstatic. :dancer:

:grouphug:

LeeAnn

Good Sunday morning,

Last night's birthday celebration w/my bro and his wife turned out better than I had hoped for, points-wise. I only went over for the day by 1 point :) I think I'll end the week this evening by being 11 points in the hole....but that is much better than I've been eating for a long time! The total amount of points I'm allowed for a week (at the high end) is 217; I know I've been eating far far more than that for the last year. So I'm happy with what I accomplished this week.

LeeAnn,
It's hard to resist weighing in more than once a week, isn't it? I've got a SIL who weighs a couple times a day, even in the middle of the night...and then makes herself crazy w/every fluctuation. I force myself to stay off the scale :lol: can wait if it's bad news.

Dianne,
I've recently discovered James Patterson, had found a couple of his books marked down; I like the way he writes.
A neighbor told me about his favorite book, The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett...it is really good. I would recommend it highly.

Cindy,
The WATP videos are done in front of the tv...it consists of a warm-up, the walk, and a cool-down. They are definitely a nice alternative to walking outside, I get more of an upper body workout than I do outdoors.

Es,
How did Tony's grand opening go? Are you ready to switch careers? I hope the bad weather didn't keep people away.

We're staying home and vegging today, have a low points onion soup from Trader Joe's to try...watching football playoffs...Packers lost... YES!!!!!!! Go STEELERS (hi Terri!)

luv,
~Jen

Hello:wave:

My brother's grand opening went well. Because of the weather I think people stayed home. Around 6 people came in asking questions. It's very nice. It's toned down & cozy. Not like these other gyms with all the mirrors & the wild music. I walked in with a bunch of balloons. He is very happy. I wish him lots of success. There's alot of competition out there. His dream finally came true.

Jen, he has 3 trainers & he still talks about me being the manager. Right now I can't leave my job but I could help him out on the weekends. Do you count points weekly or daily? You count the total for the week then subtract each day?

LeeAnn, 2 lbs. is great! What are you allowed(points)? I useto weigh myself every other day. The bad thing about that was if I was up the day before weighin I would skip that week. Eventually I would stop altogether cause I didn't want to pay the weeks that I missed. That is why I really have to make sure I want to join again.

Cindy:cp: I'm glad your hubby fixed your computer. I would be lost without mine. Pete (my hubby) thinks I spend too much time on mine which I don't. Lots of times I'd rather spend time here than watch TV.

Well, I go back to work tomorrow:( I really enjoyed being off. I could get useto this. I only work 4 days a week so it goes by fast.

Let me go check out some threads.

Hi, Terri, Zoe, Dianne, Ruth, Janie & Sandy.

Have a nice day everybody.;)

Hugs,
Es

Hi guys -

Today is such a lazy day for us - we've been watching dvd's. I really wanted to relax since tomorrow's my first day back in 2 weeks. Actually, I'm kinda looking forward to getting back - I probably won't feel that way 10 mins after I arrive, :lol:

Jen - thanks for the heads up on that book, I'll check it out. I think you may like one of Patterson's books called "Diary for Nicholas" - its different then the rest of his books which mostly involve murder - I really enjoyed it. I'm curious too, like Es - are you saying you count points by the week? That's interesting, if so. Tell me how the ww on line is.

Hey Es, mi amiga - glad to hear your brother's opening went well, don't worry I'm sure he'll get plenty of customers once word gets out. I wish him much success:smug: It will probably be fun for you too to help him out on the weekends. Who knows, maybe he'll become so successful, you'll be able to quit your job and manage for him, that would be :cool:

Hi ZoeGirl: What's up? Are you feeling any better? Hope so.

LeeAnn - I haven't read any books by that author, maybe I'll check her out. Unfortunately, I am Soooooooo NOT partial to cats:lol: It's a weird fear (maybe phobia???) I have about them. Anyway, congrats on the 2 lbs., that's great. It is hard not to weigh all the time.

Hi Cindy, Terri, Janie, Sandy and Ruth - how are you guys doing?

Well, willie and I are on our 4th OP day, so far so good. I think it is helping me that he's doing it too (harder for me to get away with things:devil: We are not going to weigh ourselves until thursday morning, that will make 1 week. Now we just have to take the time to do the WATP tapes. Tomorrow's bowling, so that's not going to happen, maybe Tuesday. Anyway, its been okay so far, hope that motivation continues. I too gained back the 12 pounds I had lost and I was so close to goal, but like you said Jen, no looking back - we'll just keep going.

Well, gotta go, we're having grilled chicken salad tonight - I looovvvvvvve chicken!

Talk to you's soon.

Hugs,
Dianne

Hi guys -

Today is such a lazy day for us - we've been watching dvd's. I really wanted to relax since tomorrow's my first day back in 2 weeks. Actually, I'm kinda looking forward to getting back - I probably won't feel that way 10 mins after I arrive, :lol:

Jen - thanks for the heads up on that book, I'll check it out. I think you may like one of Patterson's books called "Diary for Nicholas" - its different then the rest of his books which mostly involve murder - I really enjoyed it. I'm curious too, like Es - are you

Hi guys -

Today is such a lazy day for us - we've been watching dvd's. I really wanted to relax since tomorrow's my first day back in 2 weeks. Actually, I'm kinda looking forward to getting back - I probably won't feel that way 10 mins after I arrive, :lol:

Jen - thanks for the heads up on that book, I'll check it out. I think you may like one of Patterson's books called "Diary for Nicholas" - its different then the rest of his books which mostly involve murder - I really enjoyed it. I'm curious too, like Es - are you saying you count points by the week? That's interesting, if so. Tell me how the ww on line is.

Hey Es, mi amiga - glad to hear your brother's opening went well, don't worry I'm sure he'll get plenty of customers once word gets out. I wish him much success:smug: It will probably be fun for you too to help him out on the weekends. Who knows, maybe he'll become so successful, you'll be able to quit your job and manage for him, that would be :cool:

Hi ZoeGirl: What's up? Are you feeling any better? Hope so.

LeeAnn - I haven't read any books by that author, maybe I'll check her out. Unfortunately, I am Soooooooo NOT partial to cats:lol: It's a weird fear (maybe phobia???) I have about them. Anyway, congrats on the 2 lbs., that's great. It is hard not to weigh all the time.

Hi Cindy, Terri, Janie, Sandy and Ruth - how are you guys doing?

Well, willie and I are on our 4th OP day, so far so good. I think it is helping me that he's doing it too (harder for me to get away with things:devil: We are not going to weigh ourselves until thursday morning, that will make 1 week. Now we just have to take the time to do the WATP tapes. Tomorrow's bowling, so that's not going to happen, maybe Tuesday. Anyway, its been okay so far, hope that motivation continues. I too gained back the 12 pounds I had lost and I was so close to goal, but like you said Jen, no looking back - we'll just keep going.

Well, gotta go, we're having grilled chicken salad tonight - I looovvvvvvve chicken!

Talk to you's soon.

Hugs,
Dianne

Sorry, girls, I kind of mis-stated my thoughts....what I meant was that I was eating like a real oinker up to this point....and that if I'm allowed as much as 217 points per week (max of 31 per day x 7 days) then I know I was waaaay over before! I'm counting points on a daily basis, like we always do. I'm in the 26-31 points range :rolleyes: and have managed to get in the hole...Online totals and banks for you automatically, and I'm at -11. But what I meant was I know even at this point I'm doing better than I was eating before!!!

Sorry for the confusion :?:
~Jen

Jen – It’s nice to know that I’m not as compulsive as I thought. I don’t know that I’d even find the scale in the middle of the night, much less see the numbers. J (Hmm – happy that the Packers lost) Go Steelers??? Steelers who??? ;) (just kidding!)

Es – Glad the grand opening went well. It’s always nice to hear when someone follows their dream. My point range is 22-29. I don’t know if they have it by you or not, but here WW has the option of paying a couple $$ more per week, but you don’t have to make up the missed weeks. You can have up to (I think) 4 or 6 consecutive missed weeks before they drop you. You’re still smart waiting. Have any of you gone on to www.mayoclinic.com lately? They also have a weight loss program similar to WW, but it’s free. You may want to check it out.

Dianne – It’s ok that you don’t like cats – I’ll still like you. :D Mine are more like dogs than cats actually. They even come when I call. I’d be lost without them.

Well, break time from homework is over. Time for dinner and then back to programming. Ok – only three more classes, only three more classes, only three more classes! :tired:

Later! :wave:

LeeAnn

OMG - was I drunk or what??? I posted 3 times! Well, I know what happened ---- when I submitted my post, I got a message saying site not responding or something to that effect, so I tried twice more - Oy vey:lol:

Jen - thanks for clearing that up.........well, it could have been interesting to do it that way too I guess:devil: How does the on-line work - you weigh once a week and then enter your weight on line? And how does it count the points for you automatically? And how much do they charge you, if you don't mind my asking. Sorry for all the questions, just curious.

LeeAnn - I'll still like you too, even though you like cats;) Just teasing ya! Thanks for the info on the mayoclinic site - I'll check it out. Every little bit helps right?

Starting to snow here now and we just lost cable because of it.......willie's not a happy camper :devil:

Okay, I'm outta here for now - 2 posts in one day (well actually five with the 3 extras:s: ).

Will talk to you's tomorrow.

Hugs,
Dianne

Dianne,
Online is 14.95 per month, which is alot less expensive than going to meetings. There is a one-time registration fee, I think it was around $59 to join, including the 1st 3 months. You enter your starting weight, chose a goal weight, and it's all up to you. There is an online journal to fill out, it automatically totals your points and lets you know how much is left per day, how many points banked,etc. Lots of recipes and motivational stuff, a graph charting your weekly losses, based on you weighing yourself each week and posting your weight. No "live" interaction with WW personnel, so if that's what you want, it'd be better to go to meetings. If I find that I need a peptalk or some inspiration, I can go online and get it instantly, no waiting a week for a meeting. Remember this is my first week, the chance that the novelty of the new toy will wear off is always there, but I'm determined to see it through.

LeeAnn,
ooohh, didn't register that you're in Wisconsin and could possibly be a P*ckers fan.....sorry! :lol: a friendly rivalry perhaps? good luck w/school, hang in there!

Terri,
Are you home yet? The kids go back tomorrow, don't they? How was your trip?

see you's tomorrow!
~Jen

Well, it is early, but I just had to come here before taking my shower to see what everyone is up to.

Dianne -- I'm actually an animal lover, :love: but cats suit my busy schedule. I don't have to walk them -- just clean the litter box. It's nice to be able to cuddle when I want to, and having 4, there is always at least one in my lap. I signed up to the Mayo Clinic site to start next Thursday (in keeping with WW). Let me know what you think.

Jen -- Not a Packer fanatic, I just root for the home team. I like to see a good game, no matter who's playing. :cb: As for WW online, I've been a member for about a year now. If you renew for 3 months at a crack, you save an additional amount. $3 for the 3 months, I think. Thanks for the luck on school. I may need it to get through this class! :)

Well, off for my shower. Will check back later. Hope you all have a super day!

:wave:

LeeAnn

SEE YOU ON #134!!!!