Support Groups - Exercise, Diet and Support #5

Hey Girls I thought the other thread was getting a little too long so I started a new one...it also coincides with end of summer and fall starting.

I got back on the bike last night and cycled for 15 minutes until I noticed a poor tiny ant on the floor that was struggling...I think it had been partially squashed so I got off the bike and put it out of its misery....:^: at least now its not suffering.

I did ok food wise...I was at 1550 cals and 35 grams of fat. I have been reading alot about the south beach diet and I might give it a try...I'll see.

Here is a great article on dieting:

The Secret to Burning Fat Up To 300% Faster, by Tom Venuto
---------------------------------------
When is the best time of day to do your aerobic exercise? The answer is any
time! The most important thing is that you just do it. Continuous cardiovascular
exercise, such as walking, jogging, stairclimbing, or cycling, sustained for at
least 30 minutes, will burn body fat no matter when you do it. However, if you
want to get the maximum benefits possible from every minute you invest in your
workouts, then you should consider getting up early and doing cardio before you
eat your first meal - even if you're not a "morning person." Early morning
aerobic exercise on an empty stomach has three major advantages over exercising
later in the day:

Early in the morning before you eat, your levels of muscle and liver glycogen
(stored carbohydrate) are low. If you eat dinner at 7 p.m and you eat breakfast
at 7 a.m., that's 12 hours without food. During this 12-hour overnight fast,
your levels of glycogen slowly decline to provide glucose for various bodily
functions that go on even while you sleep. As a result, you wake up in the
morning with depleted glycogen and lower blood sugar - the optimum environment
for burning fat instead of carbohydrate. How much more fat you'll burn is
uncertain, but some studies have suggested that up to 300% more fat is burned
when cardio is done in a fasted, glycogen-depleted state.

So how exactly does this work? It's quite simple, really. Carbohydrate
(glycogen) is your body's primary and preferred energy source. When your primary
fuel source is in short supply, this forces your body to tap into its secondary
or reserve energy source; body fat. If you do cardio immediately after eating a
meal, you'll still burn fat, but you'll burn less of it because you'll be
burning off the carbohydrates you ate first. You always burn a combination of
fat and carbohydrate for fuel, but depending on when you exercise, you can burn
a greater proportion of fat relative to carbohydrate. If doing cardio first
thing in the morning is not an option for you, then the second best time to do
it would be immediately after weight training. Lifting weights is anaerobic
(carbohydrate-burning) by nature, and therefore depletes muscle glycogen. That's
why a post lifting cardio session has a similar effect as morning cardio on an
empty stomach.

The second benefit you'll get from early morning cardio sessions is what I call
the "afterburn" effect. When you do a cardio session in the morning, you not
only burn fat during the session, but you also continue to burn fat at an
accelerated rate after the workout. Why? Because an intense session of
cardiovascular exercise can keep your metabolism elevated for hours after the
session is over. If you do cardio at night, you will still burn fat during the
session, so you definitely benefit from it.

However, nighttime cardio fails to take advantage of the "afterburn" effect
because your metabolism drops like a ton of bricks as soon as you go to sleep.
While you sleep, your metabolic rate is slower than any other time of the day.

Burning more fat isn't the only reason you should do your cardio early. The
third benefit of morning workouts is the "rush" and feeling of accomplishment
that stays with you all day long after an invigorating workout. Exercise can
become a pleasant and enjoyable experience, but the more difficult or
challenging it is for you, the more important it is to get it out of the way
early. When you put off any task you consider unpleasant, it hangs over you all
day long, leaving you with a feeling of guilt, stress and incompleteness (not to
mention that you are more likely to "blow off" an evening workout if you are
tired from a long day at work or if your pals try to persuade you to join them
at the pub for happy hour.)

You might find it hard to wake up early in the morning and get motivated to
workout. But think back for a moment to a time in your life when you tackled a
difficult task and you finished it. Didn't you feel great afterwards? Completing
any task, especially a physically challenging one, gives you a "buzz." When the
task is exercise, the buzz is physiological and psychological. Physiologically,
exercise releases endorphins in your body. Endorphins are opiate-like hormones
hundreds of times more powerful than the strongest morphine. Endorphins create a
natural "high" that makes you feel positively euphoric!

Endorphins reduce stress, improve your mood, increase circulation and relieve
pain. The "high" is partly psychological too. Getting up early and successfully
achieving a small goal kick starts your day and gives you feelings of
completion, satisfaction and accomplishment. For the rest of the day you feel
happy and you feel less stress knowing that the most difficult part of the day
is behind you.

So, you say you're not a morning person? Take heart; neither am I. I can sleep
in like you wouldn't believe! But I get up anyway because I know the effort is
worth the results. When I have a bodybuilding goal that I am clearly focused on,
such as reaching 4% or 5% body fat for a competition, I'm on my Stairmaster for
45 minutes every morning at the crack of dawn without fail. Sure it's a
challenge at first, but you know what? After a few short weeks, It's no longer a
chore and I'm "in the groove" - and you will be too. Just try it. Make a
commitment to yourself to do it for just 21 days. Once those 21 days have gone
by, you'll already be leaner and you'll be on your way to making morning
workouts a habit that's as natural as brushing your teeth or taking a shower.
Once you start getting used to feeling that buzz, you'll become "positively
addicted" to it. The more you do it, the more you'll want to do it. Before you
know it, early morning cardio will your new habit; you'll b!
e leaner, your metabolism will be faster and you'll feel fantastic all day long!

Tom Venuto



Later Ladies

Cyan

Hey Cyan, thanks for starting a new thread. I guess that everyone is very busy lately. Well, I AM busy, but I wanted to come in and post. I wanted to post my measurements but I can't find my measuring tape.:?: However, on June 9, 2003, I weighed 196 pounds. Today on August 27, 2003, I weigh 170 pounds. That's 26 pounds! I have 30 more pounds to go to get to my goal weight of 140. This diet is so easy for me, that no matter how long it takes, I'm not going to give up! I feel too good (and look so good too!). The compliments keep coming and now my mother-in-law is giving it a try!

Well, I'll go for now. I have a drug calculation test I have to study for!

Lisa

Hey Lisa...amazing...you got take pictures and post them...I have to see the new and emerging you...how cool is that:)

Well I exercised again on the bike last night for 20 minutes...slowly I am getting back to it like once before ...so thats a great thing for me.

I have a mini vacation starting tomorrow...until monday and then I am back at work for tuesday...it will be nice to have four days off in a row...I am looking forward to that very much.

I am planning on going hiking in the exercise corridor in Morin Heights....it used to be a railway track but they turned it into an exercise route..people ride their bikes, run and walk there...its cool.

Anyway, have a great day everyone and keep plugging away at it

bye
Cyan

Yesssssssss....I am off that stinkin plateau after 3 long months!!! Since May I have fluctuated between 198 and 200 but today even after weighing 3 different times thru the day, I am at 195! I couldnt believe it! Majorly re-motivated now for sure! Dont have long to post because lots to do still before bedtime, but I just had to come share my news. My goal of 165 doesnt look nearly as impossible now.

Lisa, Cyan is right...we wanna see recent pics! That's an amazing amount in that length of time. You'll be at your goal in no time!

Cyan, wonderful for you having some time off. Enjoy yourself! My sis is doing the South Beach diet and so far, she's liking it. I think she lost 3 lbs the first week. She hasnt been doing it long.

Well really need to go get some stuff done. Talk to ya'll again soon!

Miki

Hi, everyone! Thanks for the new thread, Cyan; that other one was getting long.

Great job, Lisa, on the weight loss with Atkins--that is wonderful!

Congrats, Miki, on getting off the plateau. It's so frustrating when you're stuck, but doesn't it feel extra great when you didn't give up, and it pays off in the end?

I've had such a week! I won't go into it, except to say that it was one rough one, and my day today consists of mixing my regular Saturday errands, plus a noon dance class for my youngest, with going in to work for short periods to help out because no one except one girl wanted to sign up to work today. Even the boss made plans for the day!!!

My clothes are getting looser, especially pants. I have these size 18 khaki jeans I've been wearing for about two years that I can't wear in public anymore because they are so baggy. Because I loved the cut, I tried to find the same jeans in a 16, but Wal-mart didn't have them anymore :( Now I'll have to actually go shopping for new khakis. Maybe the "shopping for clothes" experience will be a bit more positive even with the small weight loss progress I've made.

I walked 1 3/4 miles on Thursday--was all ready to do it yesterday, but it started pouring rain. One thing about the distance--that was my summer goal--1 3/4 miles--so I've achieved it, even though I haven't done it consistently.

Well, got to go. Have a happy long weekend everybody!!

WEll, this is my last message from Taiwan for awhile. Though there is a typhoon at the present moment (never a dull moment here), we will be heading out to Taipei at 11am on Sep.2 and heading towards the USA 9am Sep.3 (that's 9pm Sep.2 EST).

I haven't been too consistent with the Xenical. I am right at 185, a little up from before, but oh well. The past week has been hectic so I am not worried. I am thinking of joining WW in the states. Not sure yet. Alot of people have been talking about the South Beach Diet too. We'll see.

Lisa and Miki and newbie you all are encouraging!!! that's great about losing. Nice Sep. beginning. Hopefully I can add some later. I will write you all when I get settled in the states.

Say a prayer the next few days. Thanks

Hi, all! The weather has turned sour here, so I am not having the gardening weekend I was hoping to--rain, rain, rain, rain!! :( Remnants from Hurricane Grace, the weather people say. I was hoping to restructure my flower garden because I've come to see that it is too big for me to care for properly. I did get started yesterday, but then it began to rain. I worked in the rain for about 3 hours. I transplanted about 1/4 of the flowers before I finally stopped. I'll have to work on it a little at a time this week in the evenings. I really need to get all the perennials moved ASAP because they need about 6 weeks to get established before 1st frost, which around here is about October 5-15. I love being in my flowers, though. It's really a great spiritual and creative experience for me.

Speaking of rain--Taiwan, take care with the weather coming home. There is some rough stuff near Hawaii these days.

I've got good news from the scale department. I lost another pound last week--I'm now at 161.5. (I'll be so excited to get below 160. I haven't been there in about 5 years.) And better than that--yesterday when hubby and I finally got to see "Open Range" (I enjoyed it--lots of killings at some points, but a good movie with interesting characters, an interesting plot, and a nice ending), I wore a pair of size 16 jeans that I could not wear 2 months ago!!!!! :D Actually I tried on two pairs I had, and they both fit!! That made me feel wonderful. I do have a little concern, though. I need to go to the grocery store and find some protein items that are good for a snack for me--maybe different from what I've been eating--for variety. I've awakened hungry in the middle of the night the last two nights, and Cheerios is what I've eaten. Now Cheerios aren't unhealthy, but carbs are a problem for ME, and I need to get some alternatives, so I don't stray from what I'm trying to do.

Well, I'm going to get going now. Take care, everyone. More later.

Hope you all had a wonderful long holiday weekend...I had a great one...it was kind of strange having all this time off from work...i felt a little jittering not working on friday..like i was playing hooky or something....yeesh!

Anyway, I have been cycling regularly over the weekend and I hiked for 5 kms on sunday...so it has been a pretty active weekend.

Food wise, I have done pretty well too, staying within my limit of 1500 cals and 30 grams of fat...i think its time to weigh in again and see what the nasty scale says.

I tried on my size twelve jeans and they fit...I still think a little to snug but my friends say I am crazy and that I should wear them...I will wait until they are just a little looser...hopefully it will be the end of this month.

alrighty then...yes I am at work so I best get to it

Hey Taiwan...are you visiting the states or are you moving back to the states? and where will you be?

Have a safe trip and take care of you

big hug to everyone

Cyan

Hey Ladies,
Hope you are all doing well…I didn't have a computer connection at home all last week.
Cyan, thanks for starting a new thread.

Cyan, Good for you that you are keeping up with the calorie count and still on that bike.

Lisa,
What can I say, you are a true inspiration!!!! :bravo:
What am I waiting for, I need to seriously get on that diet you are on! BUT, I am such a carb addict, I don’t know if I can go cold turkey!!!! Any advice you can give me, let me know!

Miki,
Congrats on breaking that plateau!!! I know how bad I want that feeling of getting out of the 190’s and I just can’t get myself there. But pretty soon! I will have the mindset to my butt back on track!

Taiwan,
Nice to see you are coming to the states. Good luck with whatever you decide to go on. I am gonna read up on that South Beach Diet…

Well,
I was out of work for 4 days and I also took advantage of the long weekend. And guess what I did.
ABSOLUTELY, POSITIVELY, NOTHING!!!!!!!!. That is right ladies, I didn’t nothing but hang out at home and rest. It was much deserved. I have been going for over 4 months now and I haven’t stopped, and I pulled out my WW books and I went and bought all my low point foods. And then, it happened!!!!!!!!!!!
My fridge broke down and all my fruits, veggies and meat went bad! This is just so typical of my life! But my landlord is going out to buy a new one and I will have it by Saturday, so it is eating out again this week. I have gotten to the point where I don’t even want to think about food.

I am having connection problems at home, so I will pop back in during the week at work.

Have a great day ladies. Take care.

Hello everybody!

Taiwan, sorry I didnt read your post in time to reply before you left out, but I hope you have a safe trip to the States. As soon as you're able, locate a computer and check in ok? We want to hear that you made it here ok. :)

Reina, I was just thinking about you today. I have no idea why, but driving home from work, you popped into my mind and I wondered how you were doing. Came home and here you were..lol Glad to hear from you! Sounds like you had just the weekend you needed. Hope you get the computer up and in good running order soon so we can hear from you more often.

Cyan, it's good to hear that you enjoyed your long weekend as well. A busy one but nice. How are your mom and dad doing these days?

Newie, try not to let the rain get you down. I know I start to get depressed if the weather stays bad for several days in a row. So far here, for the past week, we've had just quick little showers that only last a few minutes then it's over. Hasnt cooled things down at all. Supposed to be down to 60s this weekend. I'll believe it when I see it. And I hope they're right! Way to go losing another pound. Slowly but surely, we're gonna reach our goals.

Lisa, good luck on the drug calculation test. Check in again when you can.

Well all, better run. As usual, plenty to do before the nite is over.

Miki

Hey Reina ... glad you checked in...sorry to hear about the fridge going south on you...my fridge did the same a few weeks ago...lost all of my food too...that sucks!! I hope you get back on your diet schedule soon and that you break out of that plateau.

I do my weigh in this sunday so I am hoping to see that darn scale move to the left!!

Does anyone know if Taiwan is moving to the states or just visiting the states?

Lisa good luck on your test...kick some butt

Miki....How is the diet going this week...have you been walking? And what does the scale tell ya....is it good news?

Newie...hope you are doing well and hope to hear from you soon

Well Ladies...as usual, I am at work so I best get going..we didnt have internet access most of the day yesterday due to a blown router...but we are live today...ok...big hug to everyone

later

Cyan

Good Morning Ladies....

Well, after reading my weightwatcher magazine yesterday, I am jumping back on the bandwagon! I am searching for a new location for meetings, but for now, I am just counting points... Come Saturday, once I fill my fridge, I will have better options, but for now, it will be Subway for lunch.....and Dinner, maybe....

Anyway, I am giving myself the ultimate goal.... I have 3 brand new pair of pants that are size 16, that I have had in my closet, get this!!!! For 5 YEARS! still with the tags on them. Nice dress pants. Well, I had Alex and need I say more... that is why they are still in the closet. Well since funds are kind of tight right now, and I need new dress clothes for work, I am making myself fit into these pants by my 1 year 3FC Anniversary which would be for all of us this october.. SO I have my work cut out for me this month!!!! CAN I DO IT?:jig: Let's Hope.....

Cyan, maybe I will start doing my weigh-in at home on Sunday's too.

Miki, Thanks for thinking of me!!! That happens to me all the time, you guys just pop in my head! We just all have that bond!!!Can you believe that most of us have been talking for almost a year??? I can't believe it... Has anyone heard from Lady?? I am still looking for her address, I know she sent me a message. I am searching my old files.

Hope you all have a great day!

Hi, everyone!! I'm not lost--just busy, of course. I'm home this morning, but have to go in about 3. It seems like something crazy has been happening every day. Yesterday my Kathleen (3rd grader) was sent home from school for being "sick". She had the very beginning of a cold. I told her yesterday to save the sick day for when she really feels sick, but she didn't listen. I had to leave work 30 minutes after getting there. Now that probably doesn't seem like something I should be upset about because I am a mother, and that's what it's about, except that Kathleen has done this several times before, so I was really angry with her. Today she is more under the weather than yesterday, but I sent her to school as a lesson. We also discussed the story of "the boy who cried wolf" and the problems it can cause. I gave her medicine for sniffles and aches, and told her to use tissue if her nose ran, but she had to get through the day. I then talked to her teacher about the whole situation.

Miki, I did get out in the yard Wednesday evening, and plan to do so again for a little bit this morning. I think I was so depressed about the weekend because I've felt very overwhelmed lately--tons of stuff going on--both good and bad, and I really NEEDED to get out there for mental health reasons. It just gets me away from all my responsibilities and troubles for a while. I am feeling somewhat better now, which is good.

I've considered eating during this stressful time, but I haven't. Actually I didn't really feel like eating much of anything at all, though I didn't skip any meals. And I think I am learning the lesson that if I eat lots of empty carbs, etc. when I am depressed or angry, I end up feeling worse than ever when I've finished. I know I'll consider eating something empty, and then I remember the consequences. Then it's not too hard to say no. I've done walking three out of five days this week. I skipped this morning because I'll be outside digging soon.

I've had lots of fun reading everyone's posts for the past few days, since I haven't been on line since Tuesday, I think. I feel sad for all the refrigerator breakdowns. Mine is 14 years old. I hope I'm not next. I asked hubby to clean ours this weekend. I hate that job!!!!! He doesn't seem to mind. Well, I've got to go. I'll try to keep better touch. Talk to you all soon.

I love friiiiiiiidaaaaaaaaaysssssss yipeeeeeeee...but before I know it...it will be monday again but today is friday!!!

Its not that I hate my job or anything like that...its just I love the idea of not having to report in anywhere ...it feels great!

I'm gonna go hiking again this sunday..its just so beautiful this time of year .... the air is crisp yet warm enough to be outside...the sun is bright...the sky is blue and the clouds are white....what a day...can't wait to get outthere.

I have been doing well foodwise so no complaints....I havent cycled in the past few days but I will make up for it tonight.

Newie..sorry to hear that you are a little down with all the stuff going on in your life...we are always here to listen so I you want to vent ... tell us all about it and we will listen.

Reina...you can do it so get pumped up! now is the time to meet your deadline...thos size 16 pants need wearing...so go get em on ...but wait till there not too tight...dont want them to be "puta" pants :lol:

Ok ..gotta go...have a grrrrrrrreat weekend everybody and stay OP

check back in monday morning;)

bye
Cyan

Hey ladies. How was everyone's week? Well, mine was okay, it had it's okay moments and not so okay moments. Last Saturday my daughter had to get 9 stitches in her face because her and her brother ran into each other!:?: I took the stitches out yesterday (I'm quite the nurse!) and we are putting scar cream on to help reduce any scarring. I'm so worried about my little girl's beautiful face!:o

I flunked a test on Thursday so that kind of sucked. Oh well, better next time right? I must learn from my mistakes and keep on trucking! :^:

The weather is beautiful here as well. Tomorrow I hope to get some yard work done.

I'm doing well on Adkins. I cheated a bit on Monday, but have been faithful ever since.

I guess that's all, so I'll go.... hint hint...I hope to have some fun news by the end of the month.;)

Lisa

Hi, everybody--It's 12:11 a.m., and I can't sleep. The reason I can't sleep is that I quit my job tonight, and I am pretty much in a state of shock. I'm glad I did it--as you all know, I've had my ups and downs in that job and with my boss--remember how I tried to quit last spring? But this week something was wrong--she criticized me for every little thing. Then tonight after closing, she took me aside and began basically to tell me that I was not doing the job she hired me to do, not working enough hours, (she compared me to herself and how she comes in at all hours to work--as if that was what she expected me to do too), and that she was taking away a pay increase she offered me the first time I tried to quit. I tried to quit because she piled so much work on me that I couldn't keep up. She also has a history of browbeating employees. She had tried to do it to me, and I wouldn't put up with it. The raise she gave me allowed me to do some of my computer work at home, which I was doing. There were only two weeks out of the whole summer that I didn't do computer work at home, and that was because I was so busy at the store right before school started that I needed a break from it once I got home. I did come to work on two extra Saturdays, once a full day, and the other a half day, to make up some of the time. She never before tonight questioned me about how many hours I worked at home or anything. This was absolutely the first mention about any of it. Another problem was that she would give me responsibilities, and then in effect tie my hands so I couldn't do the job she wanted me to do. She wanted me to take initiative--do things on my own, but when I took the initiative, I would be criticized for doing it differently from how she thought it should be done. Of course, I wouldn't know how she wanted it done until after I did it, and she didn't like it. If I didn't take the initiative, she would criticize me for that. So basically I've been in a catch-22 situation for some time. I think I've known it, because I haven't been happy for some time, but family finances made me feel that I had no choice but to stay. After what she said to me tonight, I knew I couldn't work for her any more. I told her this wasn't the job for me. I didn't even really clean my desk--didn't care. I just took three things that were mine, said bye, and walked out the door. In a week or so, when the bookkeeper comes back from vacation, I will call her to find out about a 401k account I want to cash in and to mail me any check that is still coming to me.

Right now I'm not going to do anything except stay home and collect myself and get some rest and catch up on all the things I am behind on. I don't want to make any hasty decisions about my future. I feel a great death-like loss inside myself. Part of me wants to blame myself. I'm not perfect (just like everyone else) but I know I was doing my best, and that this woman has a reputation for treating employees badly. Most people don't like her. I honestly think she wanted me to be a superwoman. I'm not one of those. I guess it's credit to me that I refused to be her doormat. I used to let myself be one to people. I'm kind of scared because we have some credit card debt, and I don't know how we're going to work that out. I have a strong faith in God, though, and I know He'll pull us through it. I also think maybe He had a hand in this. I've often been thinking lately that I wanted to spend more time with my girls, enjoy them during this time of their lives, have time to enjoy life a little more, spend more time doing what I wanted to do, rather than always juggling six or seven things and being forever tired. I've learned in my experience that having something on my mind like that for a while is more than just me alone feeling--that it's a power greater than myself directing me. I know it will be okay--we got through hubby's unemployment for 2 years when I had no job and two small children. I just want the hurting/death feeling to go away. Hubby said it would take time. He was really supportive of me--much more than I expected. He told me to take a few days for myself and do whatever I wanted--that he'd handle the house and stuff like that.

Also, I just wanted to say--also to my credit--I did not use food to anesthetize myself in my grief. I did have a bowl of cereal, but it didn't taste really good to me. I also ate an Atkins bar, and I had a glass of wine--I really needed to take the edge off my shock. I am going to make sure to walk in the morning and every morning. I really need to take time for me.

You know, it's 1:00 a.m. I feel much better having talked about all this. Thanks for listening, ladies. You're a real support to me.

Hey Everybody..I hope you enjoyed your weekend...As usual, mine just flew on by...I saw a movie...The Order on saturday night....man is Heath Ledger a hottie...even in a priest's outfit...:s:

On Sunday, I went hiking in Mont Rigaud .... a very pretty setting..we did a 5km hike through the mountain....but I ate buger king...a whopper with onion rings!!!:^: So when I got home, I cycled for another 4 km because I had spaghetti for dinner.

Hey Newie...hang in there...you did the right thing quiting...life is too short to be in a work enviroment that is killing you...it doesnt seem like your boss would have changed and you gave it your best effort is trying to fix your relationship with the boss. I think it was time for you to move on to better things and a better work situation. Its a good idea to take some time off and relax a little bit...like you said...get caught up on things and when you are ready to find work...I am sure you will. Stay strong and good on you for not eating away your stress with lots of fatty foods!

Hey ladies...post in and let us know how you are doing

Cyan

Hi, everyone--I'm here and making it. My hubby has been wonderful with all the turmoil this weekend, and friends I saw this weekend were so supportive of my decision to leave my job!I've also seen a lifting of stress in myself each day, and a similar opening of my eyes in regard to how I haven't been able to be really there for my kids, husband, or home in the last few months. My husband (his name is John) told me this morning that I seemed different. I did send a message to my kids' school principal that I would be available for substitute teaching (I am a teacher by trade), but other than that, I'm just going to try to get my life and my family's life together. We're trying to make some financial decisions now--about how to eliminate what we owe on credit cards (that's our only financial issue).

I do feel a sense of loss that John told me won't go away for a while, and I feel an unfinished feeling in that I left my desk just as it was except for three things that were important to me (my Smurf coffee cup--given to me by a former student nearly 20 years ago--my white-out pen, and a special ruler). I have no intention of going back there for anything, so I'll have to get over that feeling. I plan to write the bookkeeper about mailing me my final check, and I'll ask her to send me a couple of tiny photos of my girls that I had hung up with it. If she doesn't, oh well. I have more. I guess I took with me the important things--my dignity, self-esteem, and self-respect. Material things aren't important.

On to other things--I weighed myself this morning--I lost another pound--I'm down to 160.5. I'll be so excited to get under 160. It probably will happen fairly soon, because I really don't have much of an appetite right now. The most challenging thing for me to do is to maintain the low carb plan without some of the more expensive options I've been using up to now--some of the Atkins products--very pricey--and low-carb bread and peanut butter. I know it's only a matter of making good choices and limiting portions of high-carb foods, and I can do that.

Well, I'm going to get to the grocery store and get some housework done--is this house ever a wreck!!!!! I didn't see how bad it was till I slowed down. I'm also going to my local bank to discuss a financial option a friend in the banking business told me might be a good option for us. See you all tomorrow!!

I need to say this--it's so nice to be able to slow down!!! I was so exhausted and stressed!

Hey Ladies,
I hope all is well with you and you all had a great weekend!

Newie,
Cyan is right, you did the best thing. Being in a horrible work environment doesn't do any good for your inner self, and we all know that In order for us to be happy on the outside, we must be true to ourselves on the inside.

You did the right thing. Clear your mind of any wrong doing that you think you did. You worked hard and you know that, so don't browbeat yourself for that.

Lisa,
I hope you daughter is doing fine. I am sure her scar will fade away in no time.

Cyan, keeping busy I see... Good for you.

Well, I filled my new fridge with all healthy and Point -friendly foods this weekend. And today< I officially started writing down what I eat again and counting points right.

I weighed in yesterday and I am still 191.2(which is good for me) I didnt' gain anything since the last time.. Now, I want to be down at least 1-1.5lbs by next week...
We will see....

FYI, I found Lady's home address and sent her a card telling her how much we all missed her and to please drop in and check in with us...

I hope to hear from her...

Talk to you all soon!!

Reina

Things are going through a slow period here at work...I should take this opportunity to read up on the lates trends out there in my field but first I will post here.

Hey Reina..I hope you hear from Lady soon and keep us posted.

I didnt exercise last night..but tonight I am on that bike if it kills me:^: I will focus on doing weights as well and some abdominals on my ball. All in all it should be about a 30 minute work out...yeeeeeeehaaaaaaaaaa....ok gotta go but stay strong everyone and lets keep losing losing losing.

Cyan

Hi, everyone--enjoying being at home--I walked two miles this morning. Still working through some emotional issues with leaving the job, but that's normal, and I am feeling better each day and more peaceful too. Thanks, everyone, for your supportive words. I haven't heard anything but support from everyone I know who knows what my situation has been. The only unresolved issue is finances. But we have a good friend who is a banker, and he is going to advise us on eliminating any debts so we can live just on John's salary. I think it will work out just fine. Take care, all--have to get something done. Bye for now.:)

I have been working hard on my diet...every once in awhile I get away from the basics and start introducing very caloric and fatty foods in large amounts!!!...then I wonder why I am not losing weight...sooooooooooo......

This week I went back to the basics of no regular soft drinks...even if its one can per week...it then becomes one can per day ...one can per meal and so on:nono: I do this for all forbiden foods but I digress:blah:

Anyway, so I have gone back to the basics and we will see what happens with the nasty scale...please move left:^:

I have found it very hard...I got used to drinking my regular sodas and loooooove them...so good..especially in the mornings..I also got used to having desert after dinner which ten turned into desert after lunch and then snacks accckkkk!!

So does anybody have similar stories where you slip back into old ways..I would be interested in hearing about that...

big hug

Cyan

Well ladies, sorry I haven't written sooner. We all made it and everything is going well. My boys adjusted well, quite suprising actually. We went to the Philadelphia Zoo today for Joshua's 5th birthday. Had lots of fun.
I won't be writing individual posts this time, but maybe next time. Has anyone tried Sugar busters? I am looking into trying something as I see it will be hard to watch my weight here in the states---too much food here in the USA:-)
Well, gotta go.

Deana

Hi Ladies,

I missed you all !!! The summer is over and I am ready to get back on track. My weigh loss has stalled and I need to get motivated again.

A quick update on what has been going on with me this summer...
we spent most of the summer at the lake house, renovating, fishing, boating...it was very nice. Although it needs a lot of work, the house has a beautiful view and the sunsets look like paintings. The house has no cable or computers and this forced my 5 and 8 year old sons to play together instead of watching tv or playing video games. They played chess, spent hours with their lego "inventions", built sand castles and forts on our beach, roasted marshmellows, and Jimmy my eight year started to get l interested in fly fishing. Now that school has started the boys are not watching as much tv and only played a video game once (when a friend was over) I hope to keep up the family time with them here.

Foodwise this summer has been bad! Too much ice cream , pizza, cookouts, wine, s"mores, fast food, you name it I was eating it this summer. Starting next week I am getting back on track. By Dec. 1st I plan to lose 20 pounds so I can look good for the holidays. Anyone want to join me?

I will do it by:

1. Eating breakfast every morning with the kids.

2. Taking a multi-vitamin for energy

3. Walking, biking, gardening, hiking, rowing, and doing my yoga tapes.

4. Put together a low-fat recipe book for myself of things I like to cook and I know my family will eat.

5. Take time for myself now that the kids are back in school ...get a massage, manicure, go to a few art museums, buy an outfit that I would not normally wear.

6. Instead of watching tv and snacking at night do something else..I signed my husband and I up for a landscape garden course that runs for 6 weeks on tuesdays in oct and Nov. I also want to put togethr some scrapbooks for holiday gifts and would like to work on them in sept, oct nov.

7. keep a food journal again and of couyrse start posting here again.

8 join weight watchers again.

9. Keep track of my goal on a weekly basis.

Currently I am 132 with 32% bodyfat up from 127 when I last posted and would like to be 112 by Dec. 1st with 25% bodyfat.


Well, I read a few posts and wanted to say I was so happy that lisa lost all the weight on adkins, cyan broke her plateau and is still as motivated, miki is still exercising, Deena is back in the states (and needs to visit me!), sad that lady is still missing, Happy that Reina is filling the fridge with healthy foods, and that newie is still part of the group. I'll write more individual posts in the next few days. I'm glad to be back!
1.

Hi ladies!

It's almost 11 pm and I still have things to do tonite but wanted to check in. I was thrilled to see everyone had posted! (just wish LadyRider would get back.) I dont have time to post much but foodwise I'm doing ok and still walking. Scale hasnt moved down anymore since last week or week before when I told ya'll I had finally gotten off that plateau. Maybe this week. I'll let you know. Sounds like summer is over and everyone is ready to get back into the groove of things. Hope we can all check in more now. Gotta run for now.

Miki

Hi, everybody! I haven't checked in for a day or two--still adjusting to my new at-home schedule and working through various feelings about my decision to quit my job so suddenly. I honestly don't regret it--I don't think I could have handled working for that woman anymore. Also, I've seen so much that I've neglected and am feeling so much less stressed. I've been very crabby for several months, and really wanted to stay at home anyway. I think God has been nudging me that way. The suddenness of the change is just a real shock to my system. The slower pace seems so weird right now--I'm so used to running everywhere, and everything always seemed to be a race against the clock. I can actually supervise my daughters' studying, and they've had afternoon phone calls from friends, which they could never have had before because they were in the school's extended day program. I'm yelling less and feeling less out of control, which are both good. There are just some things that feel so uncertain right now, like "what is my life about now?", learning to structure myself in an unstructured setting, being alone more, and learning to live on one income. Although John is very supportive of me, it has also caused him some anxiety, now that he is the sole breadwinner. He has experienced job loss himself a couple of times, and he has found himself asking if it could happen to him again, especially since his yearly review is coming up. That, I guess, no one can answer. We just keep prayer in our lives. The only other thing I am experiencing is this feeling of real inner sadness that comes and goes--I've been told that's a feeling of loss normal in this situation, and it will take time to go away. I feel sad that I really didn't get to say goodbye to my coworkers, and there were several I really liked. Anyway, I'm trying to be good to myself during it all--got a haircut today. And I work on household things that have been neglected, but I'm not killing myself to get everything done by tomorrow. I'm really trying to be very gentle with myself. I'm not sleeping well, so if I want a nap during the day, I take it.

I'm trying to take good care of myself food and exercise-wise. I'm walking 2 miles in the morning now--no deadlines to make me leave the track when I want to walk more, and I'm trying to stick to my low carb routine as much as possible. I am avoiding sweets like the plague--I'll get addicted to them again if I try even a cookie. Cyan, you really were talking to me when you spoke of how you start by having one of something daily, and then it leads to two daily, and then it grows and grows from there till you are out of control. I honestly think it's the addictive power of certain foods--for me it's sweets, anything crunchy that's either sweet or salty, and anything in the grain family--anything carbs, I guess. If I let myself start eating those things, then I begin thinking about ways I can include them more and more frequently, and then the more I eat them, the more I think about them, and on and on and on.

Anyway, it was great reading everyone's posts, and I'm sure that I'll be able to respond more individually as I get my head together. Thanks for listening as I work through this whole transition. Take care, everyone!!

Hi everybody:)

Newie, I'm sorry that your job ended the way it did, but overall, I'd say it was a positive thing. A paycheck isnt worth being stressed out and feeling as if everything around you is out of control. That's the way I had started feeling when I finally went from fulltime to parttime. I was feeling like none of it, my job, husband, kids, house, etc. were getting the full attention they needed. Now, I still work most days but just knowing I have the option of saying no when I need to makes it so much less overwhelming or stressful. Just the fact that you are feeling better and are in a better mood and frame of mind makes it worth it. I bet your family wouldnt trade that for anything!

Debee, so glad you're back! We missed you too. Your family time all summer sounds wonderful. I'd love to lose 20 lbs at least by Christmas so I'm going to join you in that challenge. My losing has been crawling lately but maybe together we can get the speed back up.

Cyan, I've been much more slack too in what I let myself eat or drink. I need to get more strict with it like I was in the beginning.

Deana, glad you made it to the states safely. Will you be in the Philadelphia area the whole time or traveling to different places? And for how long? You're welcome to drop by Arkansas. :D

Reina, I'm happy to hear your found Lady's address. Maybe soon we'll hear from her again. I hope everything is ok. How are you doing with your points so far? I hated finding out about your fridge...it's sickening when that happens. Girl, you are right about the year flying by...I cant believe we've all been around that long! Pretty cool our group is still going strong.

Lisa, how is your daughter's face healing up? Good thing she has a nurse for a mommy. :) Dont worry too much about failing that test...I'm sure you'll do better next time! Ok Im curious about your fun news...I'm not a patient person.:p :lol:

Well all, better run. Almost time for "taxi mom" to round up the kids. I swear I stay in the road as much as I stay at home!
:dizzy:

Miki

Hi, everybody--it was great to read your post, Miki. I agree that being stressed out for a paycheck isn't worth it. I'm a better wife and mom already. Everyone in my family can tell. I'm now struggling with something else related to the topic of jobs which has added a bit of stress to my life. My hubby got a short evaluation from his supervisor at work--he's in graphic arts--works for a publishing company. She said he hasn't been growing as much as the department had hoped he would. She said he needed to make improvements in his performance or she'd give him about six months to make other employment arrangements. Now I don't know how long he has to make the improvements--that all was pretty vague (my hubby is fairly new in the field and doesn't learn as quickly as some of the younger folks), but it didn't make me feel very good. I'm still glad I quit my job--I literally couldn't take that woman any more, but since 1995, when the General Mills cereal plant my husband worked at for 20 years closed down, my husband has spent 2 years in school full-time studying graphic arts, and has had three different graphic arts positions. One he was let go from, and the other one he quit for what he has now. Job loss, unemployment and financial insecurity are very scary things for me to deal with. We've been praying a lot about it and decided he should simultaneously do two things: 1) work to improve his performance so he can hopefully keep his position, and 2) begin a job search in case he is ultimately let go. As a matter of fact, I just finished helping him revise his resume. For now, I am still staying home--there is so much here that needs my attention, we're going on with our financial plans with our banker friend. At some point I may go back to work, maybe even teaching again. I am trying very hard not to worry about the future. I am a very religious person, but I have trouble with things that are out of my control. I am sure that a lot of my overeating behavior originates with that issue. I have used it to comfort myself in situations that were out of my control. I'm not doing that now, though. As a matter of fact, since I quit my job, I've lost 3 lbs. I'm down to 158 1/2 lbs. That's the lowest I've been in years. The change and loss and all that has gone on recently has kept me from eating very much. Anyway, I don't want to keep going on and on about my problems. It was so good to hear from all of you. I'll keep in touch. Tomorrow I am cutting the grass and beginning to work on the sponge painting of my daughter's room. I guess that will keep me busy for a while. I guess I'm taking it one day at a time. Thanks for being there for me. :)

Hi,

Back from another busy weekend at the lake. We had the house painted last week and I was anxious to see how it came out...we painted it something called cape cod gray..sort of a creamy tan color and had the trim painted a dark green. During the summer my son and hubby made pine tree cut-out shutters and I filled window boxes with flowers. It is beginning to look real cute! This weekend I vowed not to eat any junk food and I was pretty good...friday night we went out to dinner and I had one whiskey sour and a chicken dish, saturday I had one blueberry pancake for breakfast, lunch was some very hot chili, dinner was a little pasta , leftover chicken and a glass of red wine. sunday I had whole wheat toast and a small amount of eggs and ham, lunch was some brie, ham and french bread and dinner was an apple...although it is 8:30 and I could really go for a small snack..maybe some popcorn. Exercise this weekend was gardening and a nice long family walk. this week I plan to go for a walk each day and begin my yoga tapes again.

Miki, I would love for you to join me on my Christmas challenge! It would be great if we could package up a 20 pound weight loss...what a great gift it would be for ourselves!

Cyan, how is your mom doing. I think of you often...everytime I am food shopping and see sushi you pop in my mind.

Lisa, isn't it great that your first year of nursing is under your belt..also you muat feel so good with all the weight you lost.

Reina, make sure that refridge is filled with healthy food...hey I just had an idea..let's name the three most unusual things in our fridge. Here's mine

1. A three year old jar of lemon curd. My husband got it for me on a business trip in London and I don't know what you use it for but I can not throw it out.

2. Ginger root. I read somewhere if you suck on it if you have a headache it helps.

3. Slimy basil from my garden that about a month ago I was going to make pesto.

Newie, my mom always told me "When one door closes another opens ...or at least a window of opportunity " I believe things happen for a reason, at the right time that you need them to happen.

I would love to hear from Lady...maybe her new business really took off and she is really busy.

Deana, please check in with us and if you get a cahnce let's try to meet up for lunch (low-calorie of course!)

Hello Everyone!

DEBEE, HELLOOOOOOO There, I have missed you, I just found your address the other night, I tore it off the mailing you had sent me and put in a box and I just found it...

Sounds like you have a beautiful Lake house! I would love to see it sometime! Sounds like a regular Home and Garden Viewing Home!!

Well, I have tried to stay good this week, but I have to be honest, my flab is reallyyyyy getting to me. I am noticing that flab below my belly button is getting well, let's say FLABBIER!:(
and maybe bigger???

So, I am on a hunt for the perfect ab trainer! I need to get rid of that quick!

Hope you all had a great weekend! I got sick last week with Sinusitis and it wasn't pretty, my eyes were all swollen and red and I had to wear sunglasses for 4 straight days! But I am feeling better, I ate lots of sugar free jello, so hopefully that helped!

Well, gotta get back to work, I still haven't heard back from Lady! I gave her my phone number, hoping she would call me.....

talk to you all soon!

Debee, I am gonna take you up on your challenge, 20lbs by December! I am so there!
Let's plan out!

Hi,

I have a few minutes before I have to start cooking dinner and thought I would write. Today I skipped breakfast (very bad) and took Jake to McDonalds for lunch so I ended up having a small fry for lunch (very bad) about an hour ago I had the munchies and ate an apple (very good) but still was hungry so I had popcorn (sort of good) and I am cooking a pork roast for dinner with snow peas and baked potato. I will just have the baked potato with salsa and the snow peas. Hopefully I can keep the snacking at night under control. Exercise wise today it was very humid and cloudy so I didn't walk ((we may be getting some bad weather on Thursday with hurricane Isabel. It has rained so much this summer that I did not get a chance to do as many outdoor activities . I did use the row boat and tried to row by myself..half way out in the middle of the lake I needed to get towed by another boat...I guess I am not coordinated enough to row.

Reina, oh how I can relate to the flabby belly. I have a "spare tire " that belongs on a four wheel truck. I found that I need to eat less first then exercise to tighten. Eating right and eating less is key. The less you eat the less calories you need to burn.

Tonight I want to go through Halloween outfits so I can be prepared. Last week I got Jake a fly costume at Costco it is very cute. He is going to carry a piece of board and be a "fly on the wall" Jimmy can not decide yet what he wants to be ...we always have a big kids halloween party the second week of october and an adult one the night after the kids one. My younger sister is crazy about halloween and her house always wins the town decorating contest so my kids expect big plans from me! I was thinking about making a witches cafe in the garage this year...serving eyeballs (peeled grapes), bat wings (chicken wings) finger sandwiches. I have to think of more menu items.

Well, need to cook dinner....

Well, this has not been a fun day. Just rain, rain, rain. Thought I left typhoon season behind in Taiwan:-)

Haven't even budged on the weight control (aka--eating habits) thang yet. My mom gave me some WW material she had. honestly, I don't think I can work $10/week into my budget. Really, sounds awful I know, but it's true. i am still between the WW or South Beach (or anything else that lights my fancy). What do you all think? Of course, i need to start exercising. I need to get a pair of sneakers, but I need to get my driver's license first so I can go out and get a pair of sneakers. I don't like bothering people, especially my parents, about needing to get out of the house and get this or that. See, I let my license expire while in Taiwan, so I had to retake the test and have to wait like 10 working days while driving with a permit (welcome to teen years!!) and then take the driving test. Sooooooooo annoying.

Deb, I may take you half way up on the weight loss goal:-) I would like to lose 10lbs by Dec. 1, 20 would be great, but sounds to much for me. I like the numbers lower on the scale:-p

Reina-sorry to hear about your sickness. I had a bad sinus headache on Sat, my oh my, worse than I have ever had. I was in tears.Hope you are feeling better. You have a new job right? how is that goin?

Newie--sounds like you are doing well with all the stress in your life. Wow!! another 3lbs?!! that is great. Me, i would be chomping away, you've got great will power and determination. Sounds like you just need a rest for awhile. Sorry to hear about your dh's situation. Just support him the way he needs it. DH's are funny about certain situations. Will be praying for your situation.

Miki--sounds like things are going good for you. Well, for those of us who haven't lost, hopefully we haven't gained anyway;-) I really need to get something to get me moving. We live 20min from Philly, so yes, we'll be hear most of the time. Though we are traveling down south for a few weeks. Wish we could stop by Arkansas, that would be great, but doesn't look like we will this time.

Well, I know i have missed some people, but sorry, not that I am not thinking of you, I have to check on Josiah. Poor guy has had a horrible few days. Sat. started with a fever and moody(teething isn't helping). I noticed some canker sores on his gums. Sunday he wouldn't let me out of the nursery. Sunday night, sleep? he forgot about that, though he wasn't playing, he was screaming. Poor thing was tired, but just couldn't sleep. He is funny though. i think his binky is hurting his mouth with all the sores (he is hardly eating or drinking anything!) so he like gets mad at it and throws it across the room. He is sleeping fine now, hopefully he will tonight as well. He has slept a while so i should check on him.

Write more later ya'll.

Just wondering...are you living in the US now ...Taiwan?

Hey Debee I think I will join you on 15 pounds lost by dec 1 challenge...I need a goal. And you know...I think I will probably have sushi for dinner tonight:lol: So cool that your lake house is turning into your little haven...it sure would be nice to have one of those to relax in on weekends....you should post pictures of it so we can see :smug: all the hard work you have put into it.

Reina sorry to hear about your sinusitis..those suck....I suffer from those ocaisionally and oh...are they ever bad...I send you a big hug. I hope you hear from Lady soon

Hey Newie...Hang in there...sorry to hear that your hubby is having a hard time at work...I am a web developer and often have to do graphics so I understand how demanding it can get. But good on you for losing another 3 pounds...158...that rocks! Stay focused and before you know it...things will work out with your recent job worries...somehow things usually do.

Hey Taxi Mom Mikki...vroom vroom...can I get a ride? Its been working...tightening up on my slack list of what I can eat...every once in awhile I gotta sit down again and trim the fat off of my daily intake of food....my lunch today isnt the greatest but I forgot to make it last night so this morning I quicly made mortadella sandwiches ..I used white bread and buttered it:^: I put it into FitDay and the two sandwiches I made totalled up to 457 calories and 20 grams of fat!!:o So I will have sushi for dinner to counter act all the fat ingested for lunch! So my grand total will be 1515 cals and 51 grams of fat...sushi is amazing...thank goodness its there to save me from ingesting way more fat grams!

Lesson learned...never make your lunch in a hurry and the day of...I just plain forgot and I dont want to go out for lunch ...cause then I get used to that and before I know it...its 100 bucks later and way too many calories and fat grams ingested Ugh!

Hey Lisa...how did that jalapeno fudge turn out! Nice chatting with you on msn...later dudette

Okay I gotta get back to work...later all

Cyan

Hi,

Quick note before the school bus...had breakfast out with my hubby this morning but just had an english muffin with jelly and coffee. Lunch was a half slice of pizza. Planning to make a chicken pesto pasta for dinner tonight. Last night I started munching and had a handful of chips, blue cheese and almonds, small candy bar...if only i could stop the mindless evening snacking!

Today is a beautiful sunny day and I plan to go for a walk this afternoon and try to clean up the attic a little. We plan to stay home this weekend so I would like to get stuff done around here. This Thursday is my anniversary and Friday we are going out to dinner in Philly and maybe a show. I am going to save my calories for Friday night.

I am going to keep my weigh-in day as Friday and hope to post my measurements this week for my starting point for my 20 pound goal. Last January I started my weigh loss journey and wanted to lose 30 pounds...I lost at my best 15 and now gained back about five so 20 would be great but I would be happy even with 10 more. December 1st is about 10 weeks away so if I can lose 1 or 2 pounds a week I'll make my goal (not counting Thanksgiving) Also it will help me to stay good during holiday parties.

Hello ladies. It's been a week or so since my last post so I thought I'd update you and say HI!

Debee!!! I'm so glad you're back! Didn't you once say that you had a neigbor or someone that lost weight and was on the cover of a magazine? My family doctor's sister was on the cover of a magazine and I was wondering if it's the same person.

Well, I also wanted to let you all know that I'm taking some time off on the weight loss journey. I'll still be eating low carbs pretty much like I'm eating now, but I thought I might not keep my goal to lose weight for about the next 9 monhts or so. Actually, about 8 months now. In fact..... I might gain a few pounds here and there....if you know what I mean!


See y'all later!

Lisa

Congratulations Lisa,

You take care of yourself and stay as stressfree as possible these first few months.......

Debee, Keep up the momentum and motivation.... I so need to hear that right now!

Cyan, good for you that you know your flaws and are fixing them. I have to get organized enough to make my lunch in the morning!
But didn't that sandwich taste good??;)

Taiwan, I understand, I am itching to go back to WW meetings but my budget just can't afford it...Knowing their system helps me keep in line, and I am trying to do a good job. Whats with the South Beach diet... I don't think I can go through that 2 week period they want you to go through.
Good luck in what you decide.

Gotta get back to work, talk to you all later.

Hi,


Lisa, what wonderful news! Do you know if you are going to have a boy or girl? By the way my neighbor was not on the cover but instead in an article during this summer in Fitness magazine...she and her friend lost weight with a "buddy system" and they did an article on her.

Reina, that is what I loved about this site and really missed this summer is our buddy system of motivating one another. I feel accountable and can really picture each and every one of you when I am eating or food shopping... Cyan is always on my shoulder trying to make me buy that sushi, Miki is whispering in my ear that I should walk more, Lisa and newie are saying maybe Adkins will work, reina you are saying remember to count your points, Deana is giving me ideas for new diets, and all of you have helped me lose the weight.

Right now instead of heading for the fridge and doing my rountine evening mindless snacking I am writing here. Before I put something in my mouth I am really trying to take a few minutes and ask myself...am I hungry, is this really what I want to eat, does it taste good, is there something else that I can eat that is less calories but will satisfy the craving, can I control my portion size. Thinking while eating I think will help me. It is when I snack in front of the tv or computer and not even remember what I ate or how it tasted that really bugs me. I don't exercise enough to burn off all the calories that I consume and I will either have to start controling what I eat or exercising alot more...I think controling what I eat might be easier than exercising.

Well today was a good day, I ate a small breakfast, lunch an d for dinner had chicken pesto pasta and two small candy bars for dessert...no snacks. One day down....another 10 weeks to go until my goal.

Hi, everyone! Great reading in all these posts this evening! I've been adjusting to my new schedule and trying to change my point of view about the uncertainties of life, especially where jobs and finances are concerned. I really wish everything in life was all secure--ha!!! Isn't that a joke?--I've always had this problem with life and financial issues. I guess it's time I dealt with it. I am doing a lot of prayer about letting go and living in today and not worrying about the future. I've also come to the conclusion that I need to support my hubby as he needs it (like you said, Taiwan), not as I may think he needs it. I took my oldest to her allergist today for a check-up. She's doing very well. I then spent about an hour helping out at lunch at school, and then this afternoon I worked on some of my paper mess in our home office. I'm trying to clean this place without putting a lot of pressure on myself. My whole family has some stage of a cold. I just have the beginnings of it right now, as does oldest daughter. Youngest daughter (the one who brought it home) is done with it, and hubby is right in the middle of his.

The weather is absolutely beautiful here in Chicago--sunny, breezy, warm. I wish it was always like that. Take care of yourselves, Taiwan and Debee, with hurricane Isabel on the way.

I've changed a bit of the way I am eating--watching the dollars. I find I am eating more bread--not because of snacking but because of available choices. I am absolutely staying away from sweet carbs. I did have a few homemade tortilla chips yesterday, but they weren't that good. I am really aware that the carbs are what cause me to gain weight, so I have to be careful about what I put into my mouth.

Lisa, you'll be fine with the easing of your food plan. I know that keeping with the concept of low carb is the thing that helps me keep on track the most.

Debee, it sounds like you have a beautiful summer home. It sounds just great. I'd like my yard to be a haven like that. Maybe now that I am home, I can work on it more.

Well, I can't think of any more personal messages, though I'm thinking of everyone. I'm not going to join any challenges right now; I'm just going to try to do my best with my food and walking one day at a time--up to two miles now--just have to make sure to do it every day. Talk to everyone soon.

Hi everybody!

Lisa congratulations!! How exciting! Now, arent you proud of the weightloss you accomplished? Even tho you'll gain some naturally, I doubt you gain back more than you lost. It's like you already have a headstart on getting back to your pre-pregnancy weight.

Newie, I hope everything works out for the best with hubby's job. Sounds like you're as busy as ever even without a job...painting, mowing, tending to kids, being supportive to hubby, doing housework, etc. But arent those daytime naps the Best?? Now that's what I call luxury. lol

Cyan, I so need to get back into logging my foods into Fitday. I think that made me feel more accountable just knowing each nite I'd find out the caloric intake for the day. It's just hard finding time to sit down and do it. I know tho that when I dont do that, my estimates of what I've had thru the day are way off. It's easier to fudge with it when I dont calculate them exactly.

Taiwan, poor Josiah. Sorry he's having trouble. Probably not only his mouth hurting but just adjusting to a new place and change in time, etc. lately. Maybe tonite he'll feel better and you'll be able to get some rest for yourself. I really feel for him. Mouth sores hurt sooo bad even for adults!

Reina, I have honestly been thinking lately that my flabby parts are even more noticeable the more weight I lose.:?: That "inner tube" around my waist AND those flaps under my arm...ewwwwwwwwwww! Even tho I've lost 47 lbs now, I still could never wear sleeveless shirts. It's really discouraging. I am realizing that I have got to add some type of weight training to my workouts in order to tone up. I dont want to be flabby! I'd rather be a toned size 14 than a flabby size 8.

Debee, Happy Anniversary! How many years? Wow, I didnt realize there was only 10 weeks til our goal...maybe I should lower mine too...20 lbs would be tough in 10 weeks considering I've only lost 4 in 3 months:lol: (oh and I didnt have anything weird to share from my fridge..I actually cleaned it out 2 weeks ago. Now back then there was some stuff, but I honestly couldnt tell you what it was....too green to tell:joker: )

Well, Luke is calling me to come tuck him in. He's 11 but still likes mom to come say Goodnite. :) Josh, my 13 yr old, isnt so thrilled about it anymore so I have to enjoy Luke. Hopefully he wont outgrow it. (of course, like it or not, I still tuck Josh in also)

Bye for now..

Miki

Hey, Lisa!! I read your last post really fast, and I didn't realize you're having a baby!!! That's wonderful!! I still think keeping the carbs low and focusing on all those wonderful baby-growing foods (in moderation, of course) will keep you on track--even during the pregnancy. Great news!!!!

Let us know of your ins and outs during your pregnancy. Its a good thing you lost weight before getting pregnant...did you and your baby some good healthwise ...I am sure!

Well I had my Sushi last night for dinner...yum yum yum...I forget how filling it is aside from how good it tastes.

I need to get back to exercising...once again I have become slack in that department...I still walk to work and this morning I had to walk up the dreaded hill to make it to my office...ugh!

I brought a frozen meal for lunch today and I am not sure what dinner will be...I will figure that out later on in the day ... but I already know that I will make chicken breast and turn it into chicken salad for lunch tomorrow.

Anyway, I am rambling....good to hear that we have all decided to put forth a little more effort and take Debee's challenge to lose a determined amount of weight by a certain date..the only problem is my thanksgiving is sooner than yours:?: So I guess I will use the american thanksgiving date as my goal date of 15 pounds lost....hears to our challenge..cheers everyone.

So by my accounts it looks like Taiwan, Reina, Miki, Myself and Debee are doing this. Are you in Newie? Lisa ofcourse is preggers but I am sure she will be here to encourage us. I guess her goal will be to eat healthy and maintain her low carb diet.

so I want to lose 15 pounds by american thanksgiving..lets stay focused...and have a great op day

Cyan

Yes, Cyan, I'm in. I'll make the goal of 15 pounds lost by Thanksgiving. At first I wasn't in the mood--so much going on, but I think it will be good for me to have a positive personal goal going on in my life to focus on. I'll work to keep up my exercise and low carb plan.

I spent the morning sponge painting my daughter Veronica's bedroom (pink and blue on a white background--very pretty), washing towels, and a writing a cover letter for a job lead hubby has. Will okay it with him and fax tomorrow from the local currency exchange. Also have been praying for inner peace and to be a supportive wife during all the changes and potential changes going on. It works, but I have to keep at it. I've caught the kids' school cold--feels like I've got cotton in my vocal cords. Veronica is home today with it too--laryngitis and croup.

Well, there's stuff to do--finish the dishes, take some cough medicine, and some paper work to do. Take care, everybody. Talk to you soon.

Hi,

This is great that everyone is up for the challenge I really think having a goal and a deadline helps us keep focused and accountable ...well at least for me it does.

Today is a beutiful sunny day but i am in a bad mood...we are having a neighborhood water/flooding problem and just got into a "discussion" with our next door neighbor that regraded her water problems onto our property line..we now have two "lakefront" houses. Thursday night Hurricane Isabel is going to hit and I don't think our lawn can take any more water. About a month ago our new remodeled basement flooded a little (we were lucky it just dampened the under rug mat. I hope we don't get flooded.

Well, foodwise today I had an english muffin with a little melted cheese on it and a cup of coffee for breakfast, lunch was a turkey pita and a few carrot sticks, dinner will be chicken stir fry (I'll try to get more veggies and less chicken and rice.) Each night I am allowing myself a small chocolate treat (pudding, a mini candy bar)

Exercise will be trying to clean up the house a bit.

Hope everyone is having a great day and is making healthy eating choices!

Chewin’ the Fat
Our columnist analyzes the American Journal of Public Health’s reasons why the country’s so fat, and interviews a politician who’s battling the bulge


NEWSWEEK WEB EXCLUSIVE


Sept. 15 — You may have heard that America is fat. You may have heard that nearly two-thirds of us are overweight and 31 percent of us are obese. You may have even heard last week that the Department of Agriculture will soon decrease the number of calories a person should eat every day, an admission that there’s no point in designing diets for the healthy average American when the healthy average American no longer exists.

WE MUST BE fat. After all, Katie Couric did a two-hour special on it on Friday night. And even Dr. Phil, who previously spent his time shrinking heads, has moved on to shrinking bodies.
That’s why I was so happy to see that my favorite academic publication, the American Journal of Public Health, had devoted its entire September issue to why Americans are so freakin’ fat.
If you guessed, “Because we eat so freakin’ much,” guess again: The supersized portions are only the half of it.
You may not be a regular reader of the august AJPH (and when I say “august,” of course I mean, “widely unread”). That’s understandable. There’s not a hot celebrity on the cover or articles that offer new details of why Ben dumped Jen. Second of all, the writing isn’t too stylish. For instance, they keep using academic terms like “the built environment” when they really just mean houses, roads and neighborhoods.
But this issue is chock full of reasons why we’re a flabby nation:

1. We’re the only animals on the planet that live in communities that make us more obese. We’ve built suburbs (“the built environment”) so spread out that people must rely on cars because walking or biking simply isn’t an option. Many developers today don’t even bother to install sidewalks and some communities intentionally build new schools on the edge of town, hindering children’s ability to safely walk or bike to school (whatever happened to President Bush’s “Run No Child Over” education reforms?).

2. Americans bike and walk far less than their European counterparts (what article about American obesity would be complete without a gratuitous comparison with good ol’ Europe?). In the U.S., only 7 percent of all trips outside the home are made by walking or biking, compared to 39 percent in Sweden (hey, it’s cold there), 34 percent in Switzerland (hey, it’s hilly there) and 46 percent in The Netherlands (hey, it’s low and swampy there).

3. If you put less than three items in a list like this, it feels like the problem is too small to worry about, but if you put too many items in a list like this, it sounds like the problem is so vast that it will never be solved. I’m going to err on the side of the latter.

4. Transportation, environment, economic development, legal and public safety officials typically must sign off on new development. But public health officials are rarely, if ever, consulted, so our subdivisions actually make us fatter and lazier. And a lack of public health scrutiny goes well beyond new construction. New York City just signed a deal with Snapple to become the exclusive vender of soft drinks in the city. A spokeswoman for the city’s health department told me that the Health Commissioner was not even asked to review the deal, even though Snapple drinks are actually just liquid sugar. (Snapple’s own website admits that a 16-ounce bottle of “Snapple Apple” has 240 calories and 20 percent of your daily recommended intake of carbs and consists of only 10 percent real juice. The “best stuff on Earth” turns out to be “water, high fructose corn syrup, pear juice and apple juice from concentrates, citric acid, natural apple flavor with other natural flavors, fruit and vegetable juice (for color).”

5. Suburban sprawl also makes us lonely. Our communities, the journal says, “are not interconnected” and cause “a lack of social networks and diminished social capital, which can contribute to obesity, cardiovascular disease, mental health problems, and increased rates of mortality.”

6. And not only are we fat and lonely, we’re poisoning ourselves. Suburban sprawl turns farmland into housing, meaning that food producers must create the same amount of food on less and less farmland. That makes “agriculture more dependent on the use of pesticides [which] has had a debilitating impact on human health, resulting in greater rates of asthma and other respiratory problems.”

7. We haven’t learned from the past. In the 19th century, a new type of architecture was developed to cut down on epidemics of cholera, typhoid and tuberculosis. Yet in the 21st century, we’re doing just the opposite: Instead of designing walkable cities, we build sprawl that makes us even more dependent on the automobile—and only exacerbates the epidemic of the age: obesity.

And last but not least: No. 8. No one is doing anything about all these problems. OK, that’s not entirely fair. One of the articles lauded a handful of politicians who have been waging the battle of the bulge with their constituents, among them Mayor Charlie Ealy of Bolivar, Missouri (“Visit our new airport!”). After the 300-plus-pound mayor’s doctor gave him two choices—start exercising or start shopping for a casket—Ealy began walking. And he encouraged the citizens of Bolivar—average, patriotic Americans who, like Ealy, are very fat—to join him.

The journal article filled me with the vision of thousands of Bolivarians walking briskly with their mayor every day. But I knew something wasn’t right, so I called Ealy immediately. The Bolivar City Hall operator told me he couldn’t come to the phone right now because, wouldn’t you know, he’d just had quintuple bypass surgery. But under my relentless questioning, the operator gave me Ealy’s home number.
The mayor, it turns out, is recuperating nicely (I sent your best wishes, by the way). In fact, he credited the “Walk and Talk with the Mayor” program for keeping him alive.
“The doctors told me I would be dead if I hadn’t been walking for the past nine months,” Ealy told me. “It’s a real lifesaver, if you’ll pardon the pun.” (Sorry, Mr. Mayor, but only the governor has the power to pardon a pun that lame.)
But while Ealy was pleased with the personal results of his walking regimen (some regimen! One mile around the park three times a week. The mayor is a regular Rocky Balboa), I felt he was holding back, so I asked him the tough question: Just how many Bolivarians were joining him on these walks?
“We were averaging about 10 or so,” he said. “A lot of people didn’t find it convenient.”
Most of the country knows what Ealy means. On a recent road trip through Pennsylvania, a recent headline in the Daily Item (“serving the Central Susquehanna Valley”) caught my eye. It said that “many find it hard to exercise” because they can’t find the time. But you wouldn’t need to “find” the “time” if walking wasn’t “exercise” but a way of life.
“Going to the gym or using exercise equipment in the basement is not something most people have the discipline to do,” said John Pucher, a researcher who wrote about the importance of promoting walking and biking. He also walks roughly 10 miles a day because he doesn’t own a car.
“Whether I’m tired or it’s cold out, I have to walk to the office and back. My exercise is part of my daily life.” (So is bumming a ride from friends whenever he needs to buy something bigger than he can carry, Pucher admitted.)
So what’s the answer? Simply put: Burn down the suburbs, junk all the cars and start over.
“We need to change people’s minds about the benefits of living in places where you walk more,” said Richard Jackson, director of the National Center of Environmental Health and the editor of the AJPH special issue.
Will people really give up their Hummers? As we like to say in America: Fat chance.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gersh Kuntzman is also Brooklyn bureau chief for The New York Post and a formerly overweight apple juice addict. His website is at www.gersh.tv

Hello everyone. I hope you are all doing great today....Well there isn't much to report, I am trying to stay current with weight, I am eating pretty decently..

I am a bit frustrated right now. I went to pick up Alex from school yesterday, and he had a large Scratch(cut) on his neck! Do you know another 4 year old boy and Alex were sitting cutting pictures with the teacher and the other boy, grabbed Alex from behind and tried to cut his neck with the scissors!!!:yikes:


Yes, He ran the open children's scissors, you know the ones that are supposed to be safe, ran those across my son's neck, he broke the skin a little in the middle of the cut, but other than that there is a large long scratch on his neck, right over his juggler...
Do you know how :censored: pissed I was yesterday!

I just don't know how to react with this..... I have a picture of it, I took one for the school, for the boy's file, but this is unreal!!!!

I am soooooo :censored: upset and aggrevated! These aren't 6-7 year olds, where you can take them aside and have the talk with them. These are 4 year olds. How do you deal with this??

Well, I have to go, I am getting pissed again, and I have lots of work to do.

Keep up the good work ladies!!!

Reina

Well girls, it's getting windy here in Delaware. Cyan, I am here for 7months and then going back to Taiwan. We are on furlough, that means, missionaries go to churches sharing what we are doing and if we are lucky the church will financially support us. So this is no vacation mind you:-)

reina--you have EVERY right to be mad. Man, I can't imagine. I mean, Joshua was bullied at school at 3yrs old and I was quite upset, but what happened to your son is outrageous. I would call a conference with teacher and the kids parents to let them know that this WILL not happen again.

Lisa--congrats!!!!! Hopefully I can lose some weight and be in the same boat you are:-) My sister in law is going to have her baby anytime now (and a hurricane is here!!!). She lost over 120lbs and then unexpectedly got pregnant (and they have been married 15years!!)

Well girls, I have gotta do something. I discovered my pants are a little more snug than when I came, and it's only been 2weeks!!! My sister has a treadmill, I need to force myself to use that. I may check out the South Beach thing. Yes, the first two weeks are hard I think, but then you get to get back to normal again I understand, kinda like Atkins. We'll see. It's hard while living at my parents house as I am not the main cooker here.

Well, I need to get some things done. Talk to you later.

Today after work my friends come over with the dryer...My old one had to be thrown out...it was too old...the ball bearings were gone aside from a few other bits..the guy said it was too old to fix ...better to get a new one...so last friday at the movies...I was telling my friends of my woes and how I had to go buy a new dryer when my friend ...who I just met that day...says he has an extra dryer in his basement...and that he could give it to me if I wanted it....woooooooohooooooooooo...I said you bet I want it..how much do you want for it...and he said ...nothing...its yours:D ....so I said thank you so much....and then he offered to deliver it to my house and install this friday...now arent there amazing kind people in this world!...So Him and my other friend which happens to be his friend too are coming over after work...so I will take them out to dinner to say thank you afterward...and then, we are going to the movies to see Underworld.

I made an amazing lunch today...cant wait to eat it...its 2 bean salad...didnt have a third bean to add:lol: with tuna salad! oh yum yum yum.

Hey Reina..I cant believe that kid....I would be angry too if my kid came home with scissor marks on his neck! What did the teacher do? Unreal!

Oh cool Taiwan...7 months in the USA! I hope it all goes well for you and that you get the financial backing you need. Also...I hope you stay focussed and not gain all the weight you so diligently worked so hard to get off.

Debee...sorry to hear about neighbor problems..keep us posted.

Newie..how are you doing? Are things getting better...let us know

Well...its friday morning and its 9.30 am...A day of work ahead of me...well best get started...later ladies and have a great weekend

Cyan

Hi all,
I wish I could say I am being good today, but I am PMSing and I want Chocolate!

Alex is doing better, and I am working with the teachers and the parents on the issue...

I hope you all have a great weekend, and Taiwan, take it easy in Delaware... I hear those winds are crazy!


Cyan, how cool is that you got a free dryer! I believe there are good people out there.......

Talk to you soon,

YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!! we have electricity! man, 22hours without electricity entertaining a 14month old and a 5yr old is not what I call fun. Of course we all pigged out:-) what else is there to do without electricity. Didn't realize how much I was addicted to the computer. We are all fine, nothing happened to the house thank the Lord.
This weekend I am going to look at some books about weight loss, I DO NOT WANT TO GAIN!!!!!
Well, I need to check my gazillion other e-mails.
Take care

Hi, everyone! I am feeling pretty good today, despite the fact that I have a bad cold--caught it from the rest of my family. I get lots of bronchial congestion, croup, as well as the whole sinus clog mess that is part of a cold. The hardest part of it for me is that I cannot take anything for the sinus part of it because I am hypothyroid, and all the meds for nasal decongestion react badly with my thyroid med. (I know for sure because a couple of times I tried to take the decongestants--OTC and prescription--and--talk about a rapid heartbeat and dizziness!!) So I use a lot of tissue, cough drops, expectorant for the chest congestion, and cough suppressant if the cough gets out of control. I also drink warm liquids, eat soup, and cough out congestion (we won't go into that in any more detail, but it has to be done). Anyway, I am on the mend, day by day.

I am experiencing healing where my ex-job is concerned too. I received a note from one of my favorite former coworkers which indicated she understood why I quit. That helped because I was feeling very alone and as if I had never mattered to anyone in that job (I know that's not true, but when you're feeling down, you think goofy things). I also did receive my final paycheck, and a note from another woman in the office about obtaining personal items that I had left there--a table in particular that I want. I've decided that when I contact her about how to get the table, I am going to tell her why I quit as I did. She told me not too long before I quit that I was a real asset to the company. I believe that the owner more than likely said false or misleading things about me after I left, and I really need (for my own personal dignity and healing) for my words about my work, contribution to that company, and feelings about myself to be the last words spoken on the subject. That will really help me move on.

In regard to my husband's situation, I am praying very hard for myself to be a good, supportive wife to him in his situation, and for God to be with him and help him in every area of his life so he can go in the direction which will help fulfill God's plan for him. I am also praying for my own ability to let go of the need to control the situation, and to live for today, one day at a time. We were at the bank with our friend yesterday, where we applied for a home equity line of credit, which should help us manage our finances and even help us improve them, no matter what happens. We should know by Thursday or Friday if we've been approved.

We went to hubby's mom's 80th birthday party last night--I drank two glasses of wine on a pretty empty stomach, so I was feeling a bit drunk for a while (I'm not much of a drinker), but I laughed and had a good time for the first time in a while, which was really good for me. I really needed it. I think the wine even helped my cold, because the congestion is less this morning. I did eat some pizza, chicken, salad, garlic bread, and birthday cake too, but it was also the first time in two weeks that I've actually been hungry, and I stopped when I got full.

Other than the party, I'm doing pretty well on my food. People are beginning to notice my weight loss--11 pounds since I joined you wonderful ladies at this site. I found low-carb bread at the local bread outlet for 90 cents a loaf yesterday, so that will help me there. I'm not eating sweets except for special occasions, and I don't snack on any kind of junk food. I'm not going to weigh this morning because of the salt content of last night's dinner, but I'm still on track.

Thank you all for being there, sharing your stories, and supporting me. Congrats on your free dryer, Cyan--they're really expensive to buy. I'm glad things are getting better for you, Taiwan, in the aftermath of the storm. Reina--I feel for you with your son and the problems with other kid in school. I think it's wonderful how you are handling it. I've had a situation with my youngest that I probably should have handled more as you are doing yours. My Kathleen, who is incredibly shy and quiet, has always been placed next to the noisiest, rudest children in her class in order to help discipline those children, and I've never liked it because those kids keep her from getting the best out of her education and make her unhappy. But I never spoke up. I've never been much for questioning the teacher, since I'm a teacher myself and know there are usually reasons for certain decisions made, but now looking back, and hearing what you have done, Reina, I really wish I had said something. It's gotten better, though. Finally---this year the 3rd grade teacher moved her next to someone quiet, telling Kathleen it wasn't fair for her to have to endure a noisy person--thank you, Lord. My baby came home the very day her seat was changed to tell me how happy she was. I've made up my mind that if she is ever placed next to a noisy person again, I'll definitely speak up. Thanks, Reina. You really helped me.

Well, time to go now. I've got stuff to do. Talk to everyone later.

Hi everybody :)

Had a nice weekend but didnt get to walk Fri or Saturday.:^: Walked 3 miles this morning early but shortly afterward, it started raining and has been the rest of the day. I was hoping to get another walk in.

Reina, what a wild experience to go thru with a 4 yr old! I cant even imagine. You were right in stepping in now before something like that happens again. How did your battle with the chocolate cravings go?? I had peach cobbler today.:s:

Cyan, I enjoyed the article you posted..thanks. Very good points in it. That is so great about the free dryer!! Such a generous offer! Sounds like a good guy to get to know better for sure.;)

Taiwan, you poor thing...22 hrs with no electricity would drive me crazy even without little ones!! Thank goodness nobody got hurt and the house withstood all the wind, etc. Did you find any interesting new weightloss books you're going to check out?

Newie, sounds like doing well and getting on with life after the job-loss. That was a sweet gesture by your co-worker sending that note. I'm sure it made you feel much better. Good luck with the line of credit. That should ease your anxieties some about the financial change you're going thru now with only one income.

Lisa and Debee, I hope the two of you had a nice weekend! Looking forward to hearing from you soon.

Well, tomorrow it's "Just another Manic Monday":dizzy: Try to have a good one!

Miki

Its monday...mondays are so friggin hard for me...but if I didnt work mondays..well...tuesdays would be hard for me...oh well...how did I do food wise this weekend..well I went to Santropol on friday...a huge sandwich filled with chicken salad and cream cheese and honey and nuts ....sooooo good but its like eating a mcdonald's value meal!!:^: I then went to see The Underworld...pretty cool movie..it was entertaining.

On Saturday...I had chinese buffet...although I had mostly sushi and no deserts...I did have general tao chicken..but just a few pieces..I am sure a few pieces too many...I also had water with my food....I a had water with my sandwich too.

So not to good food wise this weekend....I also didnt do much in terms of intentional exercising...but I am back to it tonight...back on the saddle....

Oh since I have stopped taking the pill...I havent had a real period since july 16 :rolleyes: Thank goodness I dont have a boyfriend or else I would be freaking out right now. I hope my system kicks in soon and things get back to normal or else I may have to go back to the pill inorder to get things normal again...My doc did say to give it 6 month...so I am two months in...we will see what happens.

Hey Miki...good that you got your walk in this morning...better than no walk...right?

Hey Newie...good to hear that you are slowly getting back to normal. How is your hubby doing with his job? Let us know.

Oh Taiwan...22 hours with no electricity...yikes! Good to hear that you are electrified once more! Let us know how your book hunting went...I am curious about the South Beach Diet too.

hey Reina...good to hear that you are working out your son's incident...yeesh! scary situation there. Were you able to stay away from the chocolate:s:

Debee hope you are doing great..let us know

Well its monday and I gotta get back to work

later ladies

Cyan

Happy Monday everyone!!!

I wish it was a good start to the week for me. What normally takes us 30 mins to get to work and school this morning, took over 1 1/2 hours today! There was a bad accident on the xpressway this morning that had ALL the inbound lanes closed for over 3 hours, so that just created havoc on all the streets...It was horrible...

Ok, I wish I could say I stood away from the chocolates, BUT, I compromised.....I bought the mini chocolates from the candy store, and had those, rather than a large bar, I had a small piece when I was craving it this weekend! Other than that, I ate pretty good this weekend.
Right now I am eating my Burrito Bowl from Chipotle.... I love these things. I have them fill it with veggies and guacamole and grilled chicken breast and I hold the cheese and sour cream... It is awesome! I think I eat these at least 3 times a week! I am getting as addicted to this as Cyan is to Sushi:lol: :lol: :lol:

Taiwan, how horrible to be without electricity that long, how did you do it??

Newie, I am glad you were able to use my experience and learn that you can speak up when you need to... Believe me, if we don't speak for our kids, who will???

Cyan, Sounds like you had a fun weekend! It seems like eating bad comes with the territory! Glad to hear you are getting back in the Saddle. Then I will feel that I have to jump on too! I need to get back into the swing of things again!

Miki, your 3 mile walks inspire me. Where do you walk, what do you do, how do you past the time and not think of it as a "3 MILE WALK"????
I need the secret???

Have a great week ladies....

Hello everyone....

How was everyone's Monday? Mine was pretty good. Worked from 10 til 7 but not a bad day.

Cyan, that sandwich sounds Delicious!! You know I love anything with chicken. Hope your system gets regulated soon. Must be aggravating not to know if and when you'll get your period. Have the pills affected your weight any so far?

Reina, believe me, I am not some exercise finatic for sure. I only am able to walk everyday because my sis walks with me, and if either of us isnt in the mood, the other always insists we gotta do it anyway. On days when one of us cant make it, then the other usually ends up missing also. I just cant seem to motivate myself to go alone. We pretty much walk 7 days a week as much as possible. She comes to my house because my road is better to walk on than hers. We go as soon as the schoolbus runs, usually around 7:15 a.m. The time flies because we talk about everything under the sun the whole time. My husband cant understand how we can have so much to say...usually by the time she gets home, 2 miles from me, one of us calls the other cuz we forgot something.:lol: We never seem to get caught up with everything we want to talk about. I think you did well with your chocolate...the mini ones were a good choice.

Hope the rest of the ladies had a good start of the new week. Reina and Cyan, have a good nite. Talk to ya'll later...

Miki

Hi, everyone--I'm waiting for time to get my girls up for school. Last night I worked with older daughter on science report till 11:30--it turned out pretty well--I never could have helped her if I had been working--would have had no energy.

I received my last paycheck in the mail over the weekend and talked on the phone yesterday to two other ladies in the office where I worked (owner on business trip)--got some much needed closure--said goodbye, told them what happened, did some venting, made arrangements to get several personal items of mine that I left in the office. All I have to do now is pick up the items at one of the 4 stores owned by the company (the one where I originally started), and speak to the manager there about getting a letter of reference that I can use in future job searches--she will give me a good one, I know.

As far as hubby's job is concerned--he is on 3 days vacation (I was supposed to go on that business trip with boss), and we are doing lots of house work in preparation for carpet coming for girls' rooms (planned before I quit) as well as a new bed for us (also ordered before I quit). Last week he had a good week--his supervisor, he told me, took some time to work with him on some stuff he's been doing, and in general he felt he did a good job. This is how we're doing things right now: He's taking the opportunity he's been given to try to improve his work, in whatever capacity he can, get help if needed--whatever he can do to do his best day by day so he can keep his job if possible. We are also putting out feelers for job openings--sending out a few resumes, signing up with online services, stuff like that. After all, he hasn't been given any walking papers--told for sure he is losing his job or anything like that--just that he needs to improve or he will be given 6 months notice to find work. What I'm doing a lot of is prayer--as I've told you, I'm a very religious and spiritual person--have seen the power of prayer and faith in my life and in the lives of others I know. I've been praying both for myself--that I am a support to him--not a nag or someone who wants him to become what I think he should be (I've been guilty of the latter in the past, and it's time for me to change that.)--and for him--that he will be the person God wants him to be one day at a time, that he will be blessed in his work and led to the work he is supposed to do. I also pray that I can live one day at a time without worry about the future knowing that we are and will be taken care of. I've been praying with this book called "The Power of a Praying Wife" by Stormie Omartian--very powerful. It talks so much about letting go of control of your husband and giving him to God. In the last week, I've seen growing peace in myself and good things in hubby. At times I want to worry, but that just makes me feel crazy, so I keep going back to prayer.

Anyway, hang in there, ladies, with your food and exercise--I know how hard it is to stick with it all. I am needing to drink more water; also I wonder if my activity level has dropped significantly since I'm not working like a crazy woman anymore--I'm trying to be careful and keep up with my walking. Well, got to go--one kid is in the shower, and the other one needs to get up. I'm going to see the Gyn. today for my yearly check-up--haven't had my period since June--actually 100 days today--not pregnant, took a test a few weeks ago--just working on that menopause--feel great that way except for some interesting hot flashes--it will be interesting to hear what she has to say to me. More later. Bye, ladies, for now. :)

Well, it's raining again. I was supposed to take my road test yesterday (but DMV only takes so many and I was one number late). Now because it's raining, they don't have tests today. They don't test tomorrow, so I have to wait til Thursday. It's pretty humbling being 29yr and sooooooooo dependent on my parents. I know they are ready for me to get my drivers license too. I had let it expire while in Taiwan, something i just never thought about.

I don't know if josiah is going through a growth spurt now or what. Man, the past 2 nights he slept sooo well (previously he was sick, a mouth full of canker sores and wouldn't eat). now he is eating like there is no tomorrow!! He was up at about 1am and took a cup of milk. Up at 7am screaming! i ran into his bedroom and what was the problem? his mum-mum (binky) was on the floor! that was it. I thought he was in pain or something.

I am reading the south beach diet. It seems to deal alot with the glycemic (sp?) index. The first 2 weeks look pretty tough, but friends of mine who went on it said yes, the weight came off the stomach first. After getting into phase 2 they said it was much better since you could add things back slowly. the theory is that things high on the glycemic index burn faster and so you get hungry faster (kinda like a quick sugar high) things low in the index, burn slower so you stay full longer. I think I got that right. I haven't really tried it yet, still reading about it and checking the website out.

Well, I need to go. We may be visiting my brother today. My sil had a baby early this morning. Their first after 15years of marriage! she had the gastrio....bypass (i can never say that word) and lost 125lbs!! 1.5years later became pregnant. Dr had told them many years ago that they could never have children. she had something growing on her ovaries. So, she had a little boy Jacob Wayne Frost. 6lbs and? oz and 18in long. He will be spoiled rotten. She had way to easy a pregnancy and 3 hour labor---not fair I tell you, not fair. But I am happy for them, though seeing my brother as a father is hard.

Well, enough. talk to you all later.

Deana

I've decided to do an internal cleansing of my major organs..So after work I went to the herb store and picked up the stuff I needed...It will go on for about a month! I have another cold ...which is unusual and its good to clean out once a year...So I bought Milk Thistle...cleans out your liver, kidneys, spleen and stomach. I bought Sage...good for the brain (memory)cells and I bought grape vine...good for the blood. So I will keep you posted how things turn out.

Hey Miki...you are so lucky you have your sister to hang out with and exercise with....I am sure it makes things easier when you have someone special to share your activities with. I havent gained any weight since being off the pill so thats good.

Hey Reina Did you get some exercising in? I had all the intentions but I am under the weather again...another sinus cold...I hope to nip this in the bud with my body detox program...yeesh.

Taiwan....good luck on your driver's test thursday. And let us know how you are doing on your south beach..I am thinking of trying it but I might as well wait and see what you say about it.

Newie...stay strong for you and your family...I hope things work out for your hubby and work...keep us posted. have a good trip to the gyne's.

Hey Deb and Lisa...say hello when you get the chance.

Cyan

Hey Ladies,
Hope all is well today.

Miki, it sounds nice how you and your sister just talk and talk....I wish my sister would talk! she only wants to moan about all her health problems now. This is someone who never hurt in her life....

I don't know, but anyway, I wish I could say I exercised, but I didn't. I will try to work on some sit-ups today, my goal is to work on my stomach right now, nothing else! That is why Taiwan's idea of the South Beach diet caught my eye....:s:

I wish I got rid of this gut! it is yucky!!! and I feel like I am preggers! and I don't like that right now....

Well, I am off to pick up Alex and go home and watch 8 Simple Rules with the last of the John Ritter episodes.

Have a great night....

Hi all..

Reina, I forgot to watch 8 Simple Rules tonite!!:( I cant believe that. I watched all the specials about John Ritter last week and was so sad. I dont see how the cast is going to make it thru the first show without him where they deal with his death. It's still just so unbelievable to me. Hubby and I loved him...he was so hilarious. I cannot miss that show...in 3 weeks I think.

Cyan, I've never done an internal cleansing. Dont know alot about herbs, etc. Makes sense to do that occasionally, just never thought about it.

Taiwan, you must have brought all that rain with you!:rain: :lol: Good luck on your driving test Thurs. Congrats to your brother and SIL!

Newie, I too believe strongly in prayer. I've seen too many prayers answered not to believe. So just keep your faith...things will work out for the best, whether it's OUR idea of the best or not. Hope you have a good report at the doc tomorrow.

Well all, time for me to hit the sack. See ya tomorrow!

MIKI

Good morning, ladies! I took my walk this morning--2 miles, I think--I use the time walking for prayer. It also gives my day a good start--puts both my body and spirit in the right place for the strength I need now.

Yesterday was a busy day--somewhat stressful, and I didn't always feel good throughout it, but it was a day where many good things happened. First--my trip to the gyne--I see his nurse practitioner--she is absolutely wonderful--spends time with me, and is probably more thorough than the dr. himself is. She was thrilled with my weight loss and walking, and thinks I am truly on the way to menopause--100 days since my last period--only 265 days more to go. Of course, I had the pap and will soon have my yearly mammogram--don't really mind either of them--more an inconvenience than a discomfort to me, but they are very important.

I got all my personal stuff from my old job--down to a table and a garbage can I took with me to the office--had the opportunity to talk with two other women I was close to--asked one of them (a former supervisor) for a letter of reference for my files; it might come in handy someday--she said she would, but to remind her, since she can be a procrastinator with paperwork. Believe me, I will. I got a lot of emotion out of my system and received more closure. After seeing the two women yesterday and getting my stuff, I ate an ice cream cone. I was feeling pain, and I just couldn't deal with it. I knew I was comforting myself when I bought it, but at that moment I just really wanted something to help me feel good for a moment. It tasted good at the time, but later I got a stomach ache from it. Later, after the "drug" effects of the ice cream wore off, I still hurt. Anyway, that whole situation is working itself out.

We received preliminary notification from our banker that our home equity line is on the way to approval. There's just a drive-by viewing of the house by the bank to do, and whatever other official paperwork still has to be completed. Anyway, that is another thing that seems to be moving in a positive direction--I am grateful. I will feel even better when all the papers are signed, sealed, and delivered. Patience and prayer, I tell myself.

Taiwan--I don't know anything specific about the South Beach Diet, but when I have shared with friends the low-carb plan I am on, I have been told what I do is very like the South Beach Diet. I have also read about the glycemic index of foods playing a part in weight gain and loss, and in my personal experience, I have learned that the more carbs I eat, especially if no protein is involved, the more hungry I am quicker, and the more I get into a cycle of repeated carb craving and eating. I think it has something to do with insulin levels too. I have found if I eat plenty of protein--I personally am not particular--meat, cheese, fish, other dairy, soy, peanut butter (I don't eat eggs--make me sick)--as long as it's protein, I can eat a reasonable amount and not be hungry for some time. I am careful with anything with a high sugar or carb level, whether it be bread, fruit, cereal, pasta, yogurt, or desserts, because for me they trigger that cycle of carb eating. Anyway, that's my personal experience. Also, good luck on your driving test. I never cared for that experience myself. You'll do fine. Also, congrats on the new baby in the family.

Cyan, I also have never had experience with internal cleansing, though I have heard of it. Does that mean you are on the toilet a lot? I do like to eat plenty of fiber to keep regular.

I considered watching 8 Simple Rules and watching the other episodes leading up to the death of John Ritter's character, but I decided not to--too sad for me--I'm only 7 years younger than he was. I always have enjoyed him--he was hysterical in Three's Company--such a down to earth comic.

Cyan, take care of that cold of yours--I hate colds--thankfully mine is nearly over--pretty miraculous for me. It usually takes at least two weeks.

I agree, Miki, you are very lucky to have your sister as a walking partner. Having someone there to drag you out by the collar if you are trying to talk yourself out of exercise is a great thing. Thanks for your good wishes for me and hubby. One way or another, things will work out.

Well, got to go--things to do. Talk to you all later. Bye for now.

Well, sounds like everyone is doing well anyway. Anyone want to try the SBD (south beach diet) with me? I won't do anything till monday cause we go to a church on Sunday and they are taking us out to eat. SOOOOOOOOO I will wait til Monday, then I can also store up on somestuff.

Newie-sounds like you are doing good. Yes, the SBD is similiar to Atkins, but a little less strict I guess (so I've been told:o) It is starting to make sense to me. I did get a multivitamin today and flax seed oil and folic acid. I no longer take the Xenical, though still have some left. We are trying for #3 and so i don't want to take any medicine.
Cyan, I have heard of cleansing the system and have thought about it. Let us know how it goes. Some say you should do that like once or twice a month. Really does make sense and is probably more necessary in today's time.
Miki--I need to get my rump moving. I read today in the SBD book that the minium of 20min a day is necessary. If you sweat, you've reached your goal. So, gotta get moving.
Reina, how are you feeling? The weight I have gained has gone DIRECTLY to my midsection, the last place I want it.

Well, all, I need to do some schooling with Joshua, though it is about 1pm. Did errands this morning. go tomorrow at 6:30am to line up for the road test, tomorrow is going to be a busy day!!!

Talk to you all later.

Hey all,
Hope you are all having a great day!

Well, ok, I THOUGHT about working out, and then it went away! so no workout for me yesterday!.
I was way to aggrevated that my dinner just wouldn't come out right. My chicken quarters took forever to cook, and I don't know why, my oven works fine, but they just looked so darn pick, so I didn't eat dinner..

But I did watch 8 Simple Rules, and Newie, yes it was very very sad, it is so hard to see something that was so fresh, just recently taped and then poof, he is gone! that so scares me. You just never know! That is the scary part. But he had a great life, and that makes me look at all this so much differently... Live life for Today, not for yesterday, last week, or last year!
Wow, that was deep!!!!;)

Anyway,
I have lots to do today, so I better take off, I will talk to you all later.
Have a great one.

Well I am day two into my cleansing....

Newie...yes I spend a lot of time on the toilet:o But its all good!;)

The odd thing is...I was sick yesterday...truly feeling miserable...I slept for 10 hours...Today, I am so much better..I an not even taking any meds for my sinus cold...which is healing rather quickly.

It could be because I am cleaning out my organs! While I am doing this, I wont eat fried or processed foods of any kind. I will drastically reduce my intake of meats and dairy. I am also drinking lots and lots of water.

I feel great thus far! no weird symptoms or headaches..but being that I have a cold..its all a bit confounded. After the month is up, I will replenish my colon with good flora....its another set of enzyme pills to take...and then...I should be good for another year of poluting my body:lol:

Anyone interested in doing a cleansing: very simple....100 pills of sage (taken 3 times per day at each meal..two pills) 100 pills of grape seed...ditto above...100 pills of milk thistle dito above.

I would seek the advice of my doctor if I were on meds of any kind..and if you are pregnant..these herbs are not for you!!

I was told ..sometimes you body has a harder time losing weight if there is too much "guck" So I decided to give this a try and see what happens.

I will also add a glass of water in the morning with squeezed lemon in it.

Have a great day

Cyan

Hi ladies,

Well the past few days have been crazy! Last week we had heavy rains and our back yard flooded, then just a few days ago it rained more so...yesterday morning it was heavy winds and more rain, big trees knocked down and today we had landscapers regrading our yard bringing in tons of dirt ($4,000 worth) and I was so upset I started to EAT! I bought lots of junk food and have spent the evening munching away.

Now I have a wedding to go to on saturday night and need to fit into a long black shirt and sleeveless sequin top I bought hoping that I would be thinner. And to make matters worse I just got an invite to my 25th high school reunion for Thanksgiving weekend.

Ok I will stop complaining and start to take control I am interested in The south beach diet and in Cyan cleansing.


Well need to get the kids to bed....

Hi everybody!

It's 11 pm already so I dont really have time to post. Just had to drop in to say hello. Somehow I ended up with that stupid Blaster worm again!!:mad: Spent 2 hrs getting it removed. Seems that everything with the computer is fine again now tho, thank goodness.

Sorry I cant post individually. Hope you all had a good day. Just think, already it's almost the weekend again..Hooray!! Plus, I'm off tomorrow!! :D Will definitely get a good walk in the morning..supposed to be cooler and wont have to be in a hurry to finish.

Well, nite all!

Miki

I could have sworn I had posted today...anyway...if I did...dunno where it went...so Its day 3 of my cleansing and I am feeling a little headachy but it could be that I am just tired from working at a computer all day long:tired:

I am looking forward to going home, taking a nice long bath...eating something good and sitting in front of the tube and watching survivor!!! What a perfect evening.

I was planning on waxing the silverbeega this weekend but..looks like its gonna rain! My pod needs a good washing ...my bug has bugs on it...:eek: I might have to take it in to a detailer and have it done if the weather ceases to cooperate...although I think its fun and good exercise to do it yourself.

So whats everyone been cravy lately? I am having vivid thoughts of bigmacs! :s: and as you may remember..I pass one everyday on the way to and from work...ah the temptations one faces on the road to better health.:devil:

Well I shall be good...this is my mantra until I am safely pass the golden arches and in my cabana for the evening

later ladies

Cyan

Looks like everyone is enjoying their friday...two more hours for me and then its FRRRRRRRRRIIIIIIIIIIDAAAAAAAAAY after work...ahhhhh two whole days to chill and not have to deal with clients and coding and all that jazz

Looks like saturday's weather is improving...it might not rain sooo what that means...I can wash and wax the silver beega myself:D

I had sushi for lunch...so I am not sure what dinner will be.

Well everyone..just wanted to say hello and wish everyone a great weekend and I will see you all back here on monday

bye girls

Cyan

Hi, everyone! It's the end of the day, and I'm ready to go to bed. I've been very sore today--yesterday I spent about 4 hours doing yardwork--everything from weeding a flower bed I hadn't touched in months to moving concrete scallop dividers to make another one smaller. I also cut the grass, cleaned a bit, met with some other mothers to help out with a character education program at the school, and signed my Veronica up for the school band. Today I did some painting--flowers on a painted wall border in my Kathleen's bedroom--in preparation for the carpeting, took mother-in-law to the doctor, entered 100 checks into my check balancing software (only 2500 more to go before I'm caught up--I'm three years behind), and did some cleaning. The kids were off from school, so they were hanging around the house all day--rained today--they did clean their room and fold some laundry.

I think I am starting to become accustomed to being at home--I still feel a little bit empty at times--and I'm so behind in so many things that sometimes I don't know where to start. But it is getting better, and I definitely feel less stressed as time passes, and I get farther away from the job. And the further away I get, the happier I am that I finally got out of there. Wednesday I substitute taught at the kids' school for the last 2 hours of the day--2nd grade teacher got sick and had to go home. Since I am busy for the most part just being home, I keep asking myself how I managed before. I do know that I was pretty much on the edge of insanity quite a lot of the time.

I've been walking 2 miles per day, except for today. I was just too tired and sore this morning. I'm trying to be careful on the food, but I find that I am eating things like pasta--not much--that I wasn't eating before. We'll have to see how things go.

I am really taking hubby's situation a day at a time--praying for him a lot and trying myself to live in the moment and do the best I can where I am planted today. I am trying to be as supportive as possible. We're waiting for word from the bank on our equity line--supposedly yesterday an appraiser took pictures of our house--he called Wednesday night to say he'd be here. I never saw him when I was working in the yard, so I don't know when he came. Anyway--that's one day at a time too.

Cyan--that cleansing sounds like something different to me--I know there are some people who really swear by them. What does it do for you long range? Do you feel better--healthier, I mean?

Taiwan--I hope your dl test went all right.

Miki--It sounds like you're really looking forward to the weekend. Enjoy it.

Debee--hang in there!!

Reina--I know about waiting till the exercise urge passes--I do much better when I have a routine, and it's just part of my schedule. I'm sure I would have walked today--tired or not--if my kids had gone to school and I was driving by the park. It's hard to motivate myself without that routine.

Well, ladies--time to go--I'm going to look at some frugality sites--trying to get into the money-saving mode. Have a great weekend!! :)

Ah yes...its monday morning yet again! Sometimes it feels like there are only two days in the week...fridays and mondays:lol:

Anyway, I did get to wax silverbeega on saturday...she is sparkling like a jewel now...but it promptly rained on saturday evening and only stopped this morning...but the coat of wax get my car clean!

So it day 6 of my cleasing...things are coming along swimmingly...the only minor side effects I had were headaches over the weekend. I feel great...I was able to fight off my sinus cold. I seem to have more energy and I am more focused. I am not as foggy brained in the morning.

I must confess...:^: I have been very bad with the exercising...I havent done any intentional exercising in over a week...but tonight...this is gonna change...I will cycle for sure.

Hey Newie...I always wanted to try a body detox ...they call it this cause I heard it helps revitalize your liver, spleen, kidneys, stomach, blood and intestines. So I figured...maybe thats a good thing...hopefully stay disease free for my life....I like the idea of preventative medecine a lot ...so after doing research into this and finding out about side effects and such...I figured it would be a good thing for me to do.

I am drinking juices...like carrot juice, organic apple juice, orange juice and lemon water. I have noticed that I am not craving junk food as much and that I am not as hungry...so far its been a positive exerpience for me.

Well I hope all you lovely ladies had a wonderful weekend..and I am looking forward to hearing from you soon.

Cyan

Ok,
I know I posted here before the weekend, so I don't know what happened????????

But I wish this was a good message today... I am flying out tonight to Vegas. I wish it was for a nice little vacation, but my aunt passed away in her sleep Sunday morning, so I am off to a funeral....

I am really bummed, because she was the only connection I had to my father.... That really blows!!!


I will try to touch base with you all when I get back Thursday or Friday...

Have a great week ladies, and stay on track.....

FYI, I haven't heard anything from Lady, so I am kinda worried...

Take care..

Well I got back on the wagon last night and cycled for 30 minutes...a distance of 9.1km

Tonight I plan on doing the same thing but add some ball exercises!

Hope all is well...I am busy here at work so I gotta get back to it...hugs to all

Cyan

hey where is everyone....come back and post!:cry:

anyway...I am on day 8 of my cleansing...all is well...no side effects anymore...feeling good actually. I also exercised for 20 minutes on the bike and cycled 6km.

Food is ok...I am drinking carrot juice, organge juice, apple juice and lemon water on a regular basis. I have a ceasar's salad for lunch and multigrain snacks with me.

Well I am looking forward to hearing from everyone soon

hugs

Cyan:grouphug:

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Did You Inherit "Fat Genes?"
---------------------------

"Battle Your Biology? Fat Chance," proclaims a recent headline in the health
section of a popular newspaper. Quoting new research and citing psychologists,
dietitians and physicians, the article says that more and more evidence proves
that your weight is genetically determined, and if you're fat, "it's not your
fault." "We've known for a while that genes - more than environment and behavior
- explain obesity" argues Dr. James Rosen, an eating disorder specialist and
professor at the University of Vermont. While genetics are definitely a factor,
believing you are destined to be overweight for life because you've inherited
"fat genes" is the most disempowering and self-defeating attitude you could ever
adopt. The only way you’ll lose weight permanently is to accept total
responsibility for yourself and acknowledge the fact that you have the power to
change, regardless what mother nature has given you to work with.

There's no denying that heredity plays a major role in how difficult it will be
for you to lose fat. You inherited a body type, a predetermined number of fat
cells, a metabolic rate and body chemistry just as you inherited your eye color
and hair color. In the 1930's, Harvard psychologist Dr. William H. Sheldon
developed a classification system for these different body types called
"somatotyping." While there are no absolutes, Sheldon identified three basic
somatotypes: ectomorphs, mesomorphs and endomorphs. Ectomorphs are the lean,
lanky types. They are usually very thin and bony, with fast metabolisms and
extremely low body fat. An ectomorph can eat like a horse without gaining an
ounce. Mesomorphs are the "genetically gifted." They are lean, muscular and
naturally athletic. Mesomorphs lose fat and gain muscle with ease. Endomorphs
are the "fat retainers." Characterized by round features, excess body fat and
large joints ("big bones"), endomorphs usually have great difficu!
lty in losing body fat. They have slow metabolisms, they are often carbohydrate
sensitive, they gain fat quickly if they eat poorly or don't exercise, and they
lose fat slowly - even on a healthy diet.

The tendency of endomorphs to store fat easily can be partly attributed to
metabolic problems. For example, endomorphs often metabolize carbohydrates
inefficiently. Normal people can eat lots of carbohydrates - up to 60% of their
total calories - and they still stay lean. Endomorphs produce too much insulin
when they eat carbohydrates and this leads to increased fat storage and
difficulty in losing existing fat. This condition is known as "insulin
resistance" or "Syndrome X."

Scientists claim that the tendency to gain weight easily may also be due to
chemical imbalances in the brain that cause people to overeat. Researchers at
Johns Hopkins recently announced the discovery a compound called C75, that
blocks an appetite-regulating hormone in the hypothalamus. In mice injected with
the substance, 30 percent more weight was lost because the drug caused the mice
to eat less. More research is planned to develop a similar appetite-suppressing
drug for humans. Unlike Xenical, which blocks fat absorption in the intestine,
this new drug would affect the brain's chemistry so that people feel full
sooner.

Many physicians and health professionals consider these metabolic disorders and
chemical imbalances as genetically transmitted "diseases" that require medical
treatment. "Obesity is a disease and should be treated like one" says Jackie
Newgent, spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association . This idea should
be viewed with a great deal of suspicion however, because weight loss is
potentially the biggest market in the world for drug sales. According to Justin
Gillis, a staff writer for the Washington Post, more than 45 companies worldwide
are trying to develop new obesity drugs, and the stakes couldn't be higher.
Gillis writes, "In world where a blockbuster drug is worth $1 billion a year in
sales, analysts give $5 billion as the low estimate for sales of an important
obesity drug. If a company developed a truly safe, effective weight loss drug,
and sold it for $3 a day to one quarter of the 97 million American adults
estimated to be overweight, sales would exceed $26 bi!
llion a year in this country alone."

Basically, what the medical community is trying to tell you is that if you are
overweight, it's not your fault; you were born fat, so don't feel guilty - and
don't worry, we have a drug that can "cure" you. Sounds like there's an ulterior
motive at work here, wouldn't you agree? Before you run to get a prescription
for the next "miracle" drug, you'd better wonder whose interests are being
served; yours or the pharmaceutical giants. Besides, drugs can never be the
solution if they treat the symptoms and not the cause. Drugs should be
considered a last resort for the morbidly obese who have already tried
everything else without success and who will face serious health consequences if
they don't lose weight. The editors of obesity.com said it best: "Weight loss
drugs do not take the place of diet, exercise, patience, and perseverance."

"Dieting can be an uphill battle against your genes." says Post writer Joyce
Cohen. Unfortunately, if you're an endomorph, Cohen is right. Losing weight is
definitely easier for some people than for others and that doesn't seem fair.
But that's the way life is. Life isn't fair. Let's be honest; not everyone is
going to become an Olympic Gold medallist, a Mr. America or a fitness model. But
don't despair - you are not doomed to live a life of fatness if you don't have
"athletic genes."

Obesity is the result of many influences. Genetics is only one of them. Like it
or not, the primary cause of obesity is your own behavior. Most of the factors
that affect body composition are entirely under your control. These factors
include how much you eat, what you eat, when you eat, what type of exercise you
do, how frequently you exercise, how long you exercise and how hard you
exercise.

If you have the genetic predisposition towards obesity, you can lose fat like
everyone else, you're just going to have to work harder and longer at it than
other people. "There is a genetic component to weight," Says Dr. Thomas Wadden,
a psychologist from Syracuse University, "but no one is destined to be obese. If
weight has been a major problem in your family, you may not be able to become as
thin as you'd like, but you can lose weight."

If you find losing weight to be a slow and difficult process, the empowering
thing to do is to look at it as asset, because overcoming this obstacle will
force you to develop discipline, determination and persistence. These traits
will carry over to other areas of your life and make you a stronger person all
around. Arnold Schwarzennegger said, "Strength does not come from winning. Your
struggles develop your strength. When you overcome hardships, that is strength."

The first thing you must do if you want to lose weight or succeed in any area of
your life, is to accept complete responsibility for your situation. In a short
but powerful little book called "As Man Thinketh," the author James Allen wrote,
"circumstances do not make a man, they reveal him." What he meant was that we
are not products of our environment or our heredity (our "circumstances"),
instead, we products of our own thinking and belief systems. We create our own
circumstances through positive thinking and positive action and we create
negative circumstances through negative thinking and lack of action or wrong
actions. In other words, we are responsible for where we are, what we have and
how our bodies look.

Some people get very angry with me when I tell them this: They say, "Wait a
minute, Tom. Are you trying to tell me that when bad things happen to me, it’s
my own fault? That I brought unemployment, financial hardships, failed
relationships, weight gain or even health problems onto myself? Because if
that's what you're saying, that's totally unfair!"

Well, my friend, with very few exceptions, (some things really are out of your
control) that is exactly what I am saying.

If you refuse to accept the fact that you are 100% responsible, you will never
be successful. When people find themselves in undesirable situations or they
aren't getting the results they want, it’s all too easy to make excuses: It's my
genetics, I have big bones, I have a slow metabolism, I don't have enough time
to exercise, etc. etc., etc. Making excuses is relinquishing control. It is
conceding that you a victim of circumstances instead of the creator of your
circumstances. Stop blaming and start taking responsibility for your life. Take
action! Start working out. Eat better. Do something - do anything - but don't
just sit there on the couch and curse your chromosomes.

So, are you a frustrated "endomorph?" Do you feel like dieting is an uphill
battle against your genes? If your answer is "yes," please don’t just quit and
chalk in up to "bad genetics," and don't believe that drugs are the answer
either - they're not. Your genetics will largely dictate your athletic ability
and how easily you will lose weight. That doesn't mean you can't get lean; it
only means that you're going to have to work harder and be more persistent than
the genetically gifted people. You're also going to have to adjust your diet and
training to fit your body type. Maybe obesity really should be classified as a
genetically inherited "disease." But frankly, if you have a "disease" that
forces you to learn more about exercise and nutrition, to eat nutritious foods,
to adopt a healthier lifestyle, to develop a strong work ethic and to become a
more persistent person, that sounds like a blessing in disguise to me.


Tom Venuto

I am here and PMSing :p I haven't started any diet yet, I want to read the book first and understand it before I dive into anything. So, i will write when my mood is better:-) and hopefully my 5year old will still be alive then--ah! the joys of boys
Bye for now

Hi, everyone! I've been very busy the last few days--being at home doesn't mean I have nothing to do. I've been cleaning and organizing and in general making up for the stuff I haven't done for the 6 years I worked! I'm still having down moments, but those are more about having hubby's issues on my mind than my own new life. I'm still praying and taking it one day at a time, and I know that somehow everything will work out fine.

I've been doing my walking except if the kids don't have school. Today I walked 2 1/4 miles!! It's the first time I went over 2 miles. I haven't lost any more weight--still at 158.5--but I haven't gained either. Today I ate a brownie that I made the other day--that happened though because I woke up with a headache today, and I haven't been able to get rid of it, though I've lain down on the couch, in bed, put ice on the back of my neck, and ate about 10 ibuprofen (since 7 o'clock this morning--not all at once). Hopefully it will go away by tomorrow. I have to start washing a couple of bedroom walls because the bed we ordered the day before I quit my job has come in. It wasn't supposed to be in for another 2-4 weeks, so I need to get on the ball.

I've also been getting my garden ready for next spring--transplanting and stuff--and working on painted borders in my girls' rooms--we're getting carpet for them soon too. Yesterday I cleaned both bathrooms in our house. The girls' bathroom hadn't been cleaned in literally months!!! It took me an hour and a half to do it, and there isn't even a tub or shower in there--terrible neglect!! I do hope I can stay home for a while--I've been remembering what I wanted to do with my life when I was a little girl--it was always to be a wife and mother--the idea of career came when I was in high school. I've been praying that I will have that opportunity. I'm a much nicer and more productive person when I am not constantly running--wearing myself out.

Well, not much else to report--Cyan--I skimmed the article you posted--very interesting. I figured that there was some kind of genetic component to weight and weight loss--you should see all the big girls on my side of the family--from my father's side. My mother has 11 granddaughters--from mid-20's to 1 year old--and 6 of 10 older ones are and have been overweight since about 6-8 years old. I was the same way. Thank God my two daughters were spared. I know that Kathleen takes after her father--tall and skinny. Veronica is petite and tiny waisted--not at all like me. I do agree with the author, though, that genetics is not a license to do nothing about being overweight--we just have to work harder at it.

Well, time to go--have to check some other e-mail. Talk to everyone later.

Hello everybody!

Well, I've had a busy several days. I kept my adorable 2 yr old niece, Kaylen, from Saturday until yesterday. We had so much fun with her! Didnt find time to post or exercise any while she was here.:^: I took her home yesterday afternoon. I really hated for her to leave.:( I dont think her mom and dad would have let me keep her another hour tho...they were missing her by the first nite.:lol: My sis called me probably twice a day every day Kaylen was here.:dizzy: I think her feelings were hurt because Kaylen didnt want to take out time to talk to her. Of course, why would she...she rules the roost at Aunt Miki's house.;)

Reina, I'm sorry to hear about your aunt. It's hard to lose someone suddenly like that. Hope you have a safe trip there and back.

I hope the rest of you are having a nice nite. I was off today but I've got to work the rest of the week. Tomorrow I will start back walking for SURE!! Next week, I plan to work in some weight training also.

Gotta run for now....still lots to do before bedtime. Ya'll have a good day tomorrow!

Miki

Well I didnt cycle last night...but I most certainly will tonight...its a must! I have to add air to my exercise ball...I will have to attend to that.

I was planning on going hiking this weekend but the weather is forcasting rain for both days...every weekend it seems...rains:(

I am hooked on survivor...and its friends too...and will and grace...lets just say..its great tv night.

I have to organize my closet...I need to bring forward the winter clothes and put away the summer clothes...its getting rather cold rather fast..it will be 1 degree celcius tonight..almost freezing:eek:

Looks like Cyan my furbaby might be providing me with some btu's of warmth ...we havent turned on the furnace yet.

Miki hope you get back to your walking soon ...how cold does it get in your neck of the woods?

Hey Newie...good to hear that things are starting to settle for you...how is your hubby doing with work? Are things better? Is your headache gone?...headaches are the worse.

Hey Taiwan..sorry to hear you are pmsing...mine has been very eradic since I stopped the bc pill...but looks like things are straightening itself out.

Well girls...have a great rest of day. hugs to everyone

Reina...my deepest condolences to you and your family...sorry to hear about your aunt..I hope you are feeling better.

Cyan

Hi ladies,

just a short note to say that I am trying to get back on track. The past week I had so much junk food that I did a mini-cleansing and tried to drink fruit juice today. Yesterday I had a big mac the first in about 5 years and it really upset my stomach. I have also gained almost all the weight I lost last year and my jeans from last spring do not zipper up...my mini goal is to zipper those jeans!

Hope to be able to write to everyone more next week. we are going for a long weekend to the lake house and won't be back until Tuesday.

Hey girls! Sorry it's been so long, but you have no idea how horrible I have been feeling.

Well, I'm six weeks preggers today. This week has definitely been the worst so far when it comes to sickness. I don't know why they call it morning sickness and not all day sickness. I've been eating carbs again...not because I have to health wise, but because of cravings. I'm always hungry and if I'm not at home I have to eat whatever is available.

Don't get me wrong. I'm thrilled to be in this "condition" but I still need to whine and complain so I can get sympathy. Sympathy from others makes me feel better. (I'm such the narccisist) (sp)

Well, that's all,

Lisa

Hi everybody!

Hope you all had a nice day. Mine was ok. Eating was so-so and I only got to walk 2 miles, but considering I havent walked in a week, that's an improvement.

Cyan, the weather around here is so unpredictable. For instance, this week the morning temps have been mid40s-50 F, but I heard that by Saturday it may be as high as 82 F again. We rarely get a good snow in the winter, mostly ice, and winter days can vary from freezing down to the low teens. You just never know. This week has been great tho. Hardly any humidity and cool. Highs have been upper 60s. Tonite was perfect walking weather. Never even worked up a sweat.

Debee, have fun at the lakehouse! Try not to snack too much while you're there.:s:

Lisa, poor thing. I don't envy the sickness part of your condition for sure. I never had it very bad, but my sis who is due in Nov was sooo sick at first. I felt so bad for her. You deserve a little whining having to go thru that.:) Try to be careful with those cravings. Dont want to undo all the good you've accomplished. You definitely need to gain, but hopefully it'll mostly be from baby. I bet the cravings will subside some once your body adjusts to this new phase it's going thru. How is school going? I bet it's tough concentrating while feeling yucky. :grouphug: There's you a big hug from all of us. Hope that helps.

Taiwan, I can relate to the 'joys of boys'. My Josh will be 14 next month and Luke will be 12 in Jan....wish I could tell you it gets better as they get older...but it just gets different. :dizzy: Don't get me wrong...I wouldnt trade them for anything, but they can be trying at times to say the least. Hope you're having a better day today.

Newie, I'm glad you're able to experience being just a wife and mom for now like you used to dream about. I worked several years myself ( about 10 yrs) before I realized that being home was something I really wanted. I still work alot, but it's not nearly as important to me now. I'd much rather be home tending to my house and family. Good for you going past your 2 miles this time!

I hope Reina had a safe trip to Vegas. I too am really worried about LadyRider..just wish we knew what was going on with her.

Well folks, need to get some ironing done. YUCK.

Later!

MIKI

Did I ever mention I love fridays!!!

Hey girls...lots to do this weekend..I think I may have mentioned this...I have to rearrange my closet...gotta take out the winter stuff. I also have to shop for the kitties....they put in their order for food.

I gotta take the winter coats to get washed and I have to take out my mother's winter garbs and put away her summer stuff.

Ah the chores never end.

Hey Lisa...hang in their...try not to barf too much...ahh the joys of being pregnant. :lol: I send you a there there and a big hug

Well looks like I gotta get working here...

later

Cyan

Well, we are here. It is cold here, well for us anyway. My parents haven't turned the furnace on and brrrrrrrr!!! it's cold for us tropical weather folks:-)

Lisa, I had all day sickness with Josiah. I had so many colds/ear infections, etc with him. I could have slept 20 hours a day and still be tired. Congrats though!! Whine all you want dear, BTDT:-)

Miki, thanks for the encougarement:-) Some told me that though they pluck a nerve, when it's done, they'll just find another one! Yeah, this too shall pass, to the next level that's all. I love my boys, but sometimes AAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!

Debee, how did the mini-cleansing go? good luck with your goal.

well, I am sure I missed someone, but not on purpose. Love ya ladies!!! seriously, I love coming here and talking with you all.

Have you ever thought about trying something new and really want to, but scared to? I think that's how I am with the SBD. I really want to try it, just think I am psyching myself out. Oh, get this, my sister is having the gasterio----bypass (never can get the whole name right) and she had to have so many dr's appoints. Well, the last one the nutrionist talked to her. Her diet afterwards will be mainly like SBD/Atkins. HIGH PROTIEN low sugar and carbs!! hmmmmmmmmm, vewwwrry interesting isn't it?? Well, I need to get myself to do this SBD I guess. How can I pyske mysefl up for it. Well, I need to go bed soon. Night all

Hi, everyone! Happy Sunday! We're busy here cleaning, etc. Our bed is coming on the 13th. It was supposed to come in late October! Well, I guess that just shows you that things don't happen the way you plan them.

Yes, I do like being home. Actually I am so busy I don't know how I did all I did when I was working. Maybe that's why I had to stop. It just was too much for me. This week I've actually been finishing things. I finished the flower transplanting in my yard--Thursday, it was--despite the fact that right in the middle of the whole process, a yellow jacket bee was hanging around me, and as I swiped it away, it somehow got under my garden glove and stung me on the wrist of my right hand (thank goodness I am left handed). Boy, did it hurt!! I've been stung many times before (as a kid I used to go outside barefooted and would get stung on my feet), but you never know when you could become allergic, so I watch myself for unusual symptoms. Between a baking soda paste and ice, it felt better after a few hours. My hand was sore till the next day, though. I think he got me in a vein that went down into my hand. I was telling my mother-in-law what a bee sting feels like (she's never had one). For me it feels like when you get a shot in the doctor's office, except in the case of the shot, the pain stops when the needle comes out. With a sting, it keeps hurting. Anyway, that was my yard adventure.

Hubby hasn't heard anything about his work either way (I guess no news is good news)--but he is working to improve his performance, get help when he needs it, and ASK QUESTIONS if he doesn't know how to do something. I pray for him every day, and it seems to be good for him. It brings me peace too. I pray that if he is meant to stay with his company, he will be given the skills to do the job, and if he is not, that he will be directed to where he is supposed to be. I pray for myself that if it is meant for me to stay home, I will be given the means. If not, I ask to be told what to do next. I've tried to give up control of the whole situation. To do that really helps me. I don't want to be in charge of so much!! I also will have the chance to sub teach again--November 11--for my Veronica's 7th grade class (she is thrilled, not!), and the principal is giving my name to parents of students who would like to be tutored. So, one day at a time, things are working out. I also got a $300.00 insurance refund check yesterday, just in time to pay 2 bills I didn't have money for (the line of credit hasn't been given final approval yet, though we did get preliminary approval right away after applying--I wish I knew how long it takes for that kind of thing--part of me says to call and ask, and the other part (where God is) says to wait and be patient. I guess I'll wait for a little while longer.

Yesterday hubby went for my walk with me--I told him I walk 2 1/4 miles, but he wanted to do it with me. It practically laid him out--it really shows that you have to build up to being in shape.

Lisa--I feel for you with your all-day sickness. With both of my girls, I was sick for 3 months!!! I never threw up though--I wish I could have. It would have probably made me feel better. Unfortunately the only thing that would make me feel better was to eat, which I did. With each of them, I gained exactly 15 pounds in the first trimester. My craving, and the only thing that would help my sick feeling was--and I know this sounds awful--baked potatoes with margarine, cottage cheese, pepper, and yellow mustard on top! And I always had this awful metallic taste in my mouth--for 9 months. I think that is also why I ate too much--I was always trying to get rid of that taste. Anyway, I know your struggle. I was so happy for the baby, yet I couldn't stand how I felt, and how I wanted to eat, cuz I was thin before my pregnancies. It's rough!! Hang in there!

Taiwan--this cold weather must be really hard to get used to after being in the tropics for so long. I have trouble myself adjusting to cooler temperatures, and I've lived in northern Illinois all my life, so it must be really tough for you. It's supposed to warm up a bit this week here, so maybe you'll get the warm weather soon your way.

Miki, thanks for the encouragement about staying home. I hope and pray that I can do it for a while. It's what I always wanted. I was at home when my girls were tiny, but I found it hard to enjoy that time because hubby was out of work the last half of it, and I had depression the first part. I'm also not a baby person. This is such a blessing for me now, and I have the opportunity to do more of my own thing since the girls are in school from 8-2:30 every day. When they come home, there is time to spend with them, whether it's looking at their school papers, helping with homework, listening to reading, or taking them to their lessons. I also actually feel like making decent dinners. Before, I was always dead by the time I walked in the door, and didn't have the energy to do anything else.

Cyan, I hope you didn't have to spend your whole weekend in your closet switching for the season. I'm going to have to look at a map to see how far north Montreal is. When does it start snowing up there?

Well, got to go. Lots of stuff to do today. More soon. Bye for now. ;)

Hi ladies!

Hope you're all enjoying your weekend. It's almost over. Too bad they don't last as long as the week does!:dizzy: It was perfect here. High 70's with NO humidity! That's a rarity for sure.

A friend of mine from another thread, under the Exercise heading, sent me a new workout tape to try. She bought it on DVD so she's letting me have the VHS one. It's Tamilee Webb's "I Want That Body". My sis and I did it yesteday morning. Neither of us thought we got in a good workout because of trying to get the routines down right. Sometimes by the time we figured them out, Tamilee was finished and on to the next one. I almost did it again last nite just because I was thinking I didnt accomplish much the first time. Wellll....I'm glad I didnt! This morning I am SORE!! Guess we worked harder than we thought. I love that sore feeling after working out. Makes me feel like it's working. We walked 3 miles today which helped the soreness. We're going to do the tape Mon, Wed, and Fridays and walk the other days. We dont want to give up the walking as long as the weather permits us to keep it up.

Now if I can just get the eating back on track! I'm ready to get back to giving 100% to this healthy lifestyle. I've really been slack lately. I badly want to lose more weight before Christmas!!

Well, gotta run. I just noticed one of my sisters online and want to go talk to her a minute. (the one closest in age to me...she lives a little less than 3 hrs away)

Bye for now..

MIKI

Ah the pleasures of monday morning at work:dz:

My weekend was great! Spent way too much money but on things I needed...I bought kitty food in bulk! I should be good for a few months. I rearranged my closet..It wasnt too bad Newie...it just took be about an hour..if that. I also went through my Mom's closet and cleaned out her old stuff from the eighties...I filled up 6 garbage bags of expensive clothes...My Mom always bought very expensive clothes and always looked impecable..it was her thing! Anyway, I brought them over to non profit foundation who give the clothes to people in need. Her closets were too full of stuff she will never wear again and it was stuff she had in her closet for many many years without wearing them...so I hope she forgives me for giving them away...at least it was given to people in need.

I also bought smoke detectors for the rest of the house...we only had one in the basement...so I picked up three more for the rest of the house.

I did my usual chores..of vacuuming and such..oh my friggin pump for my heater broke so that is hopefully getting fixed today...the house was so cold...ugh!

I ate pretty healthily this weekend...no restaurants...yay! That was so cool not eating out...I didnt do any intentional exercising but I did do lots of housecleaning and the sort.

I am still on my cleansing schedule..actually I am sipping carrot juice mixed in with organic apple juice..yum yum.

Good to hear that everybody is doing well...have a great rest of day and week and I will pop back in later

Cyan

What can I do, I was so dedicated before and now I lost it. I have nothing left!

Lisa I am so sorry you feel so bad...I remember that feeling when I was on the train to work, or in the car home, or even when I moved in my seat at work! All-day sickness is the right name for that... I hope you feel better soon...

Cyan, I was sooooooooooooooooooo close to ordering sushi on Friday, the waiter was ready to bring it out to me, and I just couldn't but he said, he will pay for my lunch this week, if I try it and don't like it.. So I am going back this week to take the Sushi Plunge :-0

Miki, let me know how the tapes are, I think I have to go back to working out with videos, I just don't have the time to work out...
Keep up the good work with the walking, might just start that with Alex and let him ride his bike, this way, it will be fast walking, because I have to catch up... I am so worried about Lady, I addressed the card to Lady and Bryan so maybe he can get back to me...God forbid something happened to Lady...I just wish I hear something back...

Newie, Are you a CUBS Fan???? I am so excited about the Cubs!!! It has been a very long time and my husband is a die-hard Cubs fan, so the excitement at my house is awesome!!!

Deana, Good luck on the SBD... Try it, and let me know how it works...

Debee, good luck on the zipper dilemma... I am starting to feel like the lost weight has been found again... We need to get back on track and realize what we worked so hard for this past year!

Take care everyone and I hope you have a great week...

My heater pump will only be fixed this thursday....ahhhhhh...my house is sooooo cold!:flame: Thank goodness Cyan slept with me and provided a little pocket of heat and love for his Momma!

Reina...you have to try sushi....free sushi! oh wow....how lucky..but I am sure you will like it...or maybe you can say you didnt like it and get it for free :s: Let me know how it goes this friday...now i want some! Even my boss has sushi at least once per week...more like a couple of times...thanks to me :lol:

Anyway, I didnt exercise last night...I was too cold...so I took a hot bath instead.

Other than that...my cleansing is right on track..I am sipping my carrot apple juice....whole wheat pita with tuna and a mixed green salad for lunch...all is well in the food department.

Alright ladies, have a great day and stay op

Cyan

Hey girls. Just wanted to check in. I took today off from school as I seem to be getting some upper respiratory gook or something.
Cyan, I'm glad you are getting your heater fixed. Here in Kansas, it's supposed to get up close to 80 degrees. So, I'm putting on shorts.
Baby and I have been doing okay. I seem to be having some spastic colon problems, but I'm managing fine. I have not been staying on Adkins because I'm eating whatever sounds good and a lot of times Adkins friendly food makes me want to vomit. I haven't weighed myself and I don't think I will. Why bother?

Well, that's all for now.

Lisa

Hi, everyone! Just a quick check-in--I've been so busy the last few days--cleaning in preparation for our new bed coming Monday--we're switching rooms and cleaning them while we're at it. What a job!! I've been walking 2 1/4 miles a day. It feels really good. I have no idea about my weight. I'm trying to do well on food, but sometimes I don't always do the low carb thing. I'm trying to be moderate with everything and eat only when hungry.

I don't really have time for individual posts, except for one. Reina, I have been a Cubs fan since 1969, when I was 13. I even have a newspaper scrapbook from that year. I was in love with them. All the years of losing have been very sad for me, so I haven't always followed them closely in recent years, but this year seems like it might be theirs. Hubby is even watching them, and he is normally a Sox fan--South Siders, you know. I really want them to win this year, but I'm afraid to be happy yet. I am going right now to catch the end of their first game against the Marlins. Hubby just told me the score's 6-6 in the 6th inning. Hopefully they will pull it out. Well, got to go, everyone. I'll post soon again.

Its hump week...thank goodness...I am looking forward to this weekend...its thankgiving For Canadians on monday ...so I get to stay home and chill. Also it looks like the weather is cooperating and it might turn out to be really nice! Yipeeeeeeee.

I would like to go hiking this weekend and take pictures of the fall foliage and of silverbeega!

Food was good today...I had my usual carnation instant breakfast..mid morning snack was a cup 1/2 of grapefruit juice. Lunch was chicken breast about 3 oz with a caesar salad. My snack was a brownie...:ink: bad me!

Dinner ... I might pick up some sushi inorder to cut down on fat grams and stay within my limit...not sure yet.

I am gonna get on that darn bike tonight and cycle cycle cycle...I have been very lazy this past week...but I have to get back to my intentional exercises.

Not much else to report...its 3.20 and I wish it was quiting time already..I have worked way to much already .... I should have been born rich..I am more suited to be a woman of leisure:lol:

later girls

Cyan

Hi, everyone! I was watching the Cubs game, but I got tired of sitting in front of the TV. Hubby yells when something good happens, so I get to come and see the highlights. They lost last night but are leading 5-0 in the early innings. It would be so-o-o nice to see them in the World Series. They haven't won a championship since 1908.

My day was pretty uneventful today. I was tired from doing too much cleaning in these two rooms, so I didn't sleep well last night, which then made me even more tired today. I spent the morning at mother-in-law's. She had a telephone man in installing some stuff they want everyone to have, and she didn't want to be alone in the house with a workman. Then when I went home, I rested for two hours. After I picked up my girls from school, I washed part of a wood floor and moved furniture for about 2 hours. I'm making good progress on the room switch, but I'm getting sick of the heavy cleaning and disorganization involved. I am continuing to walk in the morning--2 1/4 miles daily--tomorrow I have to skip because I am taking daughter to the orthodontist for a morning appointment. Maybe I'll walk in the afternoon, before I pick girls up from school. The walking gives me time to meditate and pray--gives me strength for the day--and also gets me fit. I really find it an important part of my morning.

I have to say, Reina and Cyan, that I will not be joining you in the sushi club. I'm not much of a fish person, even when it is cooked; I can't imagine eating it raw---ugh! More power to the two of you, though.

I've eaten a few animal crackers in the last two days. I have to be so careful of stuff like that. I am trying to eat more protein and veggies and fewer grains overall these days. I am just more satisfied that way. I also lose the weight better. I weighed myself tonight. I'm the same, from what I can tell from an evening weigh-in.

Well, I'm going to go now. Talk to everyone later. Bye for now. P.S. Cubs/Marlins score is now 6-0--Cubs ahead.

Just a quick note...waaaaay to busy at work...I dont even have enough time to eat!

Anyway...Ohhhhh Sushi is the best...I am so addicted ..Its not even funny:hun: I am always wanting to sushi...although Newie...not all sushi is raw and not all sushi is fish...there is tons of stuff to choose from...delicious:lol:

I did ok last night...i didnt have the sushi..instead I had manicotti with a mixed baby green salad...quite good...I had left overs so I had it for lunch today.

Now once again..dont know what to have for lunch!

Oh I cycled for 8.1 km last night...thats about 25 minutes!:encore: I hope I have an encore tonight and cycle some more..although I am aiming to use my exercise ball!

We'll see...take care all

Cyan

Well, thought I'd drop a note before taking Joshua to karate. Luke is mowing the grass and has Josiah with him on the riding mower. Joshua is playing at a friends house for about 15more minutes.

Haven't done the SBD yet--I am lazy what can I say. Haven't exercised either. I really need to get moving. In all honesty, I can see the SBD plan working. Maybe not going on it all the way, but just doing a truly low carb lifestyle. I don't want to go through the two weeks strict phase--I know I am a scaredy cat!!!---but just weaning myself off stuff may just work. What do you all think? I am drinking some more water, though need to drink more. Exercise, I need help girls. My clothes still fit at least,so I can still buy a size 16, but would like to be a size 14 at least.
well, it has gotten quiet outside,surely Lukes not done so soon---nope,just tired of holding Josiah in his lap. well, I need to make sure I watch him now. My mom says Josiah is God getting back at me for being an "active" child--hahahahahaha!!!!
Ok, crying going on. talk to you all later.

Hi, everyone! I had a good day today. I took my oldest to the orthodontist to see if she will need any permanent teeth extracted because there isn't enough room in her mouth, and her bicuspids (eye teeth) can't come in. Thankfully, we don't. They are going to try to reshape her bite--it's too flat, and hopefully that will make enough room for the two teeth that are stuck in her gums. Poor kid! She's been having orthodontia since she was 8 years old. She'll be 13 next week. No wonder she's crabby.

Okay, Cyan--you got me! I obviously have a very limited understanding of what sushi is, so I'm going to need you to explain it to me so I don't go through the rest of my life with misinformation plus a narrow view on the subject. Let me tell you what I know. My understanding is that it is a Japanese food. I think a college friend of mine (a Japanese girl) took me to a Japanese restaurant MANY years ago and told me about it, but I can't remember if I ate any or many of the facts about it. I do remember not feeling good about it. I remember things rolled up--kind of like a jelly roll--seaweed, rice, fish. I've heard of people getting sick from eating raw fish sushi, which is why I think I remembered it as basically raw fish. Please, tell me which of my "facts" aren't facts, and what I am missing from my memory.
I'm looking forward to what you can share about it.

Well, I don't have anything else to report, except that I ate some cheese crackers today. I hope I am not toying with dangerous territory with a high carb snack. I know I could get addicted again. I didn't walk this afternoon. I missed it too. I'll be back out there tomorrow morning. I've made progress on my cleaning too--moving some clutter to the basement to deal with on better terms--in other words procrastinating.

I hope everyone is doing okay. It's practically Friday, so that will be good. Bye for now.

Hi ladies,

Well, I decided to take some drastic measures to start losing weight again....I signed up next tuesday for a "body wrap"` at a spa...you are suppose to lose at least five inches after a few sessions. The results don't last forever but it is suppose to detox you. I thought it would at least motivate my brain cells if not my fat cells.

I also went to the natural food store and bought my hummus and rye crisp snack food and the adkins book. I started to think about it doing it for weeks and my neighbor told me he is on it and lost weight. Deana, do you know the difference between adkins and the south beach diet?

Reina, it sounds like you need to be motivated as much as I do now. Do you want to be my co-chairman of the zipper club? By the end of the month we have to lose enough weight to zipper up easily without holding our breath our tighest jeans. Anyone else in?

My downfall lately has been sweets ...too many halloween candies already in this house. I also have been eating lots of pasta. Comfort food I guess. I need to get myself motivated again!

Hi everybody!

I'm kind of behind on all the posts. Been busy this week so havent been online much.

I'm loving the new exercise tape I'm using right now. The 30 minutes literally FLIES by which is a big plus. My sis and I do the tape on Mon, Wed, and Friday and walk the other days.

My eating is still not great. I started out ok yesterday with oatmeal but ended up working thru lunch. Got hungry and all that was available in the break room was Cherry Cheesecake.:s: Healthy lunch huh?:^: Had a hamburger and Baked Lays chips last nite. Today was better but I really need to work more on eating right. My eating sometimes defeats the whole purpose of all my exercise I think.

Weather is still in the 70s here. Really nice for walking. Cyan I hope you got that heater fixed today. Being cold is sooo miserable!

Lisa glad to hear you and baby are doing well, just sorry you've got that upper respiratory junk. Feeling better today??

Newie, I've never tried sushi either. Just the name gets me, I think. Hey, so the scale stayed the same...that's better than gaining right? :)

Taiwan, what your mom said was so funny!:lol: How does Joshua like karate? My dh was into karate several years back..actually got his black belt. My kids have never taken it tho. Phil said it was a great workout. He was in much better shape back then because of it.

Hi Debee! The "body wrap" is a big fad around here right now. A co-worker of mine actually lost about 15 inches in just 2 sessions!:o I just dont understand exactly what you lose and where it goes.:lol: Glad you mentioned hummus...I havent had it in ages..had forgotten all about it. Gonna have to get out and get myself some. I love it. (thanks to Cyan, who was the first I had ever known to eat it)

Reina, have you had a chance to start walking with Alex? I promise you'll feel great once it's done. I'm to the point now where I get in a BAD mood if I cant get my walk in. You might like the tape I'm doing. It's Tamilee Webb's "I Want that Body". Total body workout in 30 min. and it's not hard at all, but I was sore after the very first time I did it.

Well, I need to go. Just got home from a "Donkey Basketball" fundraiser game at the kids' school. Anyone ever seen one?? They actually have a basketball game where each player rides a donkey and can only shoot while sitting on one. The animals are really stubborn and the players are on the floor about as much as they are on the donkey. It was hilarious.

Tomorrow is Friday....Cyan's favorite day!:D Enoy it everyone.

Miki

Sushi is the most famous Japanese dish outside of Japan, and one of the most popular dishes among the Japanese themselves who usually enjoy sushi on special occasions.

During the Edo period, "sushi" was pickled fish conserved in vinegar. Nowadays sushi can be defined as a dish containing rice which has been prepared with sushi vinegar. There are many different types of sushi. Some popular ones are:


Nigiri
Small rice balls with fish, etc. on top. There are countless varieties of nigirizushi, some of the most common ones being tuna, shrimp, eel, squid, octopus and fried egg.

Gunkan
Small cups made of sushi rice and dried seaweed filled with seafood, etc. There are countless varieties of gunkanzushi, some of the most common ones being sea urchin and various kinds of fish eggs.

Norimaki
Sushi rice and seafood, etc. rolled in dried seaweed sheets. There are countless varieties of sushi rolls differing in ingredients and thickness. Sushi rolls prepared "inside out" are very popular outside of Japan, but rarely found in Japan.

Temaki
Temakizushi (literally: hand rolls) are cones made of nori seaweed and filled with sushi rice, seafood and vegetables.

Oshizushi
Oshizushi is pressed sushi, in which the fish is pressed onto the sushi rice in a wooden box.

Inari
Inarizushi is a simple and inexpensive type of sushi, in which sushi rice is filled into aburaage (deep fried tofu) bags.

Chirashi
Chirashizushi is a dish in which seafood, mushroom and vegetables are spread over sushi rice.

Note that "sushi" becomes "zushi" in word combinations in which "sushi" is the second word, e.g. nigirizushi.

The good old USA has come up with the now venerable California roll which contains avocadoes and imitation crabmeat. Other creations now use mayonnaise, tuna (yes, it was not used in traditional sushi!), beef chicken and cheese.

Many people do not know the difference and misuse the terms:

"sushi" :

vinegared rice served with pieces of something else - not necessarily raw fish, and not necessarily fish at all. The majority of the times people use the term "sushi," they are referring to the rice with raw fish, but not always. Sushi can come in the individual (about two bite-size) pieces that may be called "nigiri-sushi." Or it can come in rolls cut up in to pieces (probably called "maki-sushi"). The rolls make for a bit easier eating, so if someone is self-conscious about how he/she is going to look eating it, the "maki-sushi" might be the way to go. [It's possible that you may see "sushi" spelled as "zushi" in these combinations. I don't think it makes much difference in the pronunciation.]

"sashimi" :

always means raw fish without the rice. (I would prefer always to eat sashimi but without the rice filling me up, I would never stop and run up a bill the size of the national debt!)

Oh dear... Now I have to have sushi this weekend...perhaps a little sashimi too....YUM:hun:

Hey Miki...I didnt know that I was the first person you knew that ate Hummus! Thats so cool...funny enough ...I seem to be the person that introduces new foods to most of my friends! If you like hummus...you would like babbaganoush ..not quite sure of the spelling but instead of chickpea ...they use eggplant...and its soooooooo good as a spread...yum yum yum

well later ladies...yay its friday...have a great weekend...its thanksgiving here in Canada ...so Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Cyan

Hi, everyone! Busy day today--I cleaned two area rugs with this powdered rug cleaner I use called Capture--have to use something like this because of my daughter's allergy to mold--and varnished a piece of molding to fit a place where one was missing in our new bedroom--we took it out a couple of years ago to put a phone jack in, and it broke. I also got word that our home equity line of credit is approved. Hallelujah!! Now we can get rid of the credit card companies. We are cutting all but one low-limit card up. Closing on the transaction will be October 25--just in time for the November bills. Anyway, slowly but surely we are making progress. It's nice weather--low '70's and sun--but I know cold weather is just around the corner.

Thank you, Cyan, for all the information on sushi--I really didn't know there was so much to it.

Miki, it was good to hear from you. Take some time for yourself this weekend. It sounds like you are incredibly busy. I know what you mean about not feeling the same if you don't get your exercise in. I have begun to feel that way about walking, especially as I am walking longer distances. A day without walking (and the prayer/meditation I do during it) isn't just as good as a day with it. Also, I love donkey basketball!! I saw my first game when I was in high school, and when I was teaching, the school where I worked sponsored it once. You're right. It is hysterical. I love it when the players try to make the donkeys move, and they won't, and they push, pull, anything to get them to go, and they just won't budge! It's a riot!

Well, everybody, I'm going to go surfing for a few minutes before I put the baked chicken in the oven. Tonight it's two things--moving our computer and its desk from one room to another, and watching the Chicago Cubs game. They were wild the other night--took the Marlins 12-3. I'm hoping we'll have another win tonight. This weekend hubby is going to wash the room where the new bed will go, except the floor. That's my job. Actually getting down on my hands and knees is pretty good exercise. I'm glad not to have to do wall and ceiling. My shoulders and neck are on the weak side from a whiplash I received 20 years ago, and wall/ceiling washing makes me very sore. Instead I'm going to catch up on the flower bed at the church that I take care of. Let's say that I haven't taken care of it for a while, so it doesn't look too good. Have a nice weekend, all!:)

Wow Cyan...you're a walking sushi dictionary!:lol: Thanks for the interesting info. I had no idea it was so involved. Hummus is actually hard to find around here and I dont know of anywhere near here that even serves sushi. We have Chinese restaurants, but not any Japanese ones. I'd probably have to drive a couple of hours to find sushi so I doubt I try it anytime soon.

Newie, glad to hear your credit line was approved! That has got to be a load off your mind, especially with Christmas getting closer on top of all the bills. I hope you have nice weather this weekend so you can get your flower bed done. I have to work tomorrow but I'll get off by 4 so I hope to still be able to walk afterwards.

Ladies, hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

Miki

Ok ladies...it's been 3 days since anyone came to post and I'm lonesome in here!!:cry:

I had a wonderful 3 day weekend ...it was thanksgiving for us Canucks this past monday.

Miki...hugs to you for feeling lonely. Have you weighed yourself lately?

I plan on not getting on the scale until the american thanksgiving...by then, lets pray that I have lost a few pounds!

I saw Kill Bill this weekend...very good...Tarantino is so good...I love his angle on things...very quirky.

hey Newie..looks like you have been very busy and your house must be spotless!! :)

Oh I didnt have sushi this weekend but I did go shopping for winter trousers! I hate shopping because it reminds me that I am not losing weight...I bought from the petite section because this way I dont have to hem the trousers but they were a size 14p....ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh the size 12p were too snug and I don't like tight clothes! What an eye opener...I guess its making me more determined than ever. Sizes are so strange...I could me anywear from a size 10 to a size 14 depending on the the brand name of the clothes.

Ok enough ranting...I gotta get to work.

Later ladies

hey what sizes are you gals wearing?

Cyan

Hi, everyone! Sorry I haven't posted in a few days, but it's been very busy here. Our new bed came in yesterday--it's beautiful!! I also had a little extra money, so I bought inexpensive side tables and lamps to finish off the room. We deserve to have something nice. Cyan, I wish I could say my whole house was spotless, but unfortunately it's not--maybe two rooms are clean, but this is an old (built in 1941), dusty, 4 bedroom house with dining room, living room, kitchen, 1 1/2 baths, sewing room, a full unfinished basement full of stuff from the upstairs--and really neglected for the last 6 years except for the bare minimum to keep it decent. I've missed working on our house so much. I'm a sewer/crafter/creative type, and I just haven't had time to do much of this over the last few years with work and all. Now I am getting my chance. I like things clean and pretty, but not necessarily expensive. I figure it will take me 6 months to a year to really get things the way I want them. I'm just taking it a day at a time, and making sure I take time for myself each day so I don't burn myself out.

The question was raised about clothes sizes. I wear in pants a size 16. I'm just the tiniest bit too tall (5'4") for petite pants usually. Sometimes I'll get lucky and petites will run long. Mostly, though, I just cut off the misses' sizes. I really hate that. What a pain! My size in tops is a little more uncertain, since I lost the 11 pounds. Before, I was wearing an 18, but now that size is too big for me. I am guessing I probably wear a 16 in a top too, or a 1X. Size XL right now is probably too narrow in the shoulders for me. My shoulders are broad, and my arms are long. I come from broad shouldered Irish stock on my father's side. I've been told many times over the years that I don't look as large as the size I wear. Anyway, I am getting tired. It's about time to hit that new bed. I didn't walk today because I volunteered at the school, and it rained all day as well. I need a good walk tomorrow. More soon. Bye for now.

Hi Girls...this article is written by Anthony Ellis, a fitness expert. Very interesting read


Hi,

They’re at it again. Spurred by a truly disturbing increase in the number of
overweight and obese Americans – and a parallel rise in type 2 diabetes –
doctors and federal health officials are building new food pyramids and issuing
new guidelines on what seems like an almost daily basis. Unfortunately, these
brand new strategies usually contradict the guidelines we’re used to. What’s
more, they often contradict each other.

So what’s the fuss about? A super-sized portion of excess pounds. According to a
March 2002 Harris Poll reported on CNN, 80% of people over 25 are overweight,
based on their body mass index. In 1995 the figure was 71%. In 1990 it was 64%
and in 1983, just 58%.

That’s a remarkable rise in so short a time and experts agree it constitutes an
“epidemic” of overweight. What they don’t agree on is why Americans are
expanding so much and so fast.

* Lack of exercise. Virtually everyone agrees that Americans don’t move as much
or as fast as they should. But there’s been concern about our sedentary
lifestyle since at least the 50s so it’s hard to see our couch potato status as
causing the sudden rise in overweight.

* Tasty, inexpensive fast food meals. There has already been one lawsuit based
on the idea that a fast food outlet caused two young people to become
overweight,

* Increasingly generous portion sizes both in restaurants and at home.

* A general failure on the part of Americans to do the right thing. This view
was summed up nicely by Dr. Louis Aronne of Cornell University’s Weill Medical
College who told CNN “If Americans were to make the effort to manage their
weight using a variety of options, including better nutrition, more exercise,
approved medications or even surgical approaches, we would be rewarded with
significantly better health.”


====================
Too good to be true
====================

The top suspect in many peoples’ opinion is the United States Department of
Agriculture’s food pyramid. Published in 1992, it replaced earlier charts that
simply grouped foods together and offered the common sense advice that everyone
should eat foods from each group – in moderation – every day.

The new pyramid, on the other hand, ranked foods -- with carbohydrates (up to 11
portions a day!) as its base and fats and oils at its “use sparingly” top. The
implication was clear: carbohydrates were “good” foods, fats were “bad” ones. It
was a very short step from there to the idea that it was fine to eat all the
safe and healthy carbohydrates you wanted as long as you avoided fats.

At the time, plenty of people wondered how this could be true. After all,
everyone knew that if you ate more calories than you used you’d gain weight –
whether those calories came from sirloin or spaghetti. But the idea was so
attractive it was hard not to at least give it a chance.

After all, if it were true, you could make mashed potatoes with skim milk and a
bit of diet margarine – and then eat the whole bowlful. Half a loaf of crusty
French bread was fine as long as you skipped the butter. And pasta – modestly
dressed in low-fat tomato sauce -- became the queen of the dinner table.

To make things worse, the food industry climbed on the bandwagon. Taking all or
most of the fat out of foods took most of the taste with it but food processors
soon discovered that if you replaced that fat with plenty of sugar, things
tasted good again. And with that Snackwell cookies – and all their competitors –
were born.

The results, as they say, are weight gain “epidemic” history.



======================
Reshaping the pyramid
======================

Today, the federal government is working on reshaping its pyramid – and so are a
number of other groups. A Newsweek cover story, enticingly titled “The Perfect
Diet” explored some of the alternatives, including one new pyramid devised by
scientists from the Harvard School of Public Health. This new chart breaks up
the old food groups (like meats, fruit, dairy and grains) and ranks foods solely
on whether they are healthy sources of nutrition. Whole grains and vegetable
oils rank best; red meat, white rice, pasta, potatoes and sweets rank worst.

There is some very good science behind this new pyramid including data from
large, carefully controlled studies. At the same time, it’s hard to accept the
idea that rice and pasta are bad for you when the Asian and Mediterranean diets
have consistently proven to be exceptionally healthy.

Just to make things even more confusing there’s no shortage of other diet plans
designed by experts.

* The Atkins diet scraps carbohydrates in favor of fats and protein.

* The Zone diet, favored my many athletes, includes all kinds of foods but
requires very specific percentages of fat, carbohydrate and protein.

* The Ornish diet, which is largely vegetarian, allows only 10% of calories from
fat.


All claim to help you lose weight and gain energy, good health and protection
from various diseases. And they do – for some people some of the time.



==========================
Time to think for yourself
==========================

You wouldn’t buy a car that was perfect for cross-country trips if you lived and
drove in Chicago. And you wouldn’t buy a makeup that was perfect for Nordic
blondes if your coloring was Mediterranean. So why put your faith in any diet
plan that doesn’t respect who you are and how you live?

To lose weight – and keep it off – you’re going to need to think for yourself,
gather the information you need, consult experts if necessary and take a
realistic approach. The following steps are a good start.

1. Consider your health. If you have problems like diabetes, high blood pressure
or heart disease talk to your doctor before you begin any diet.

2. Consider your ancestors. Did your grandmother have diabetes? Did your aunt
fall and break her hip? Does your dad have a heart condition? Having a relative
with a particular condition doesn’t mean you are sure to have the same problem
but it does mean you should try to eat in ways that help prevent that problem.
You can learn more about the relationship between various conditions and diet
from your doctor or a nutritionist. You can also find information at the library
or on line.

3. Consider WHY you eat. If you’re doing it to calm down or cheer up you may
need to make some stress-reducing changes in your life before you can lose
weight successfully. A talk with your doctor or a counselor might make a real
difference.

4. Consider family demands. If you leave work, pick up your children at the
sitter, stop at the market and arrive home at six with two cranky, hungry kids,
a meal that requires an hour of preparation and cooking is a really bad idea. So
is a meal that neither child will touch.

5. Consider your lifestyle. If your job and commute take nine or ten hours a day
and you also have to clean house, tend the yard, run the errands and spend time
with your spouse and kids, you‘re probably not going to get much out of a health
club membership.

6. Consider your tastes. A diet that forbids all the foods you like or insists
on foods you can’t stand might work for a week or two but certainly isn’t going
to become a lifelong way of eating. Yes, you may have to cut down on some foods
you enjoy – even save them for very special occasions. But eating is too
important a part of life to turn it into an unpleasant experience.

7. Consider your budget. Fresh fruits and vegetables can be expensive,
especially in winter. So, unfortunately, can fish. Look for ways to save money
on other food purchases – for example by not buying snack foods, soda, sweets
and other low-nutrition foods. And do try using canned and frozen fruit and
vegetables in your recipes. They are actually often higher in nutrients than
fresh and are usually substantially less expensive.


=======================
Find what works for you
=======================

Once you’ve thought all those issues through, it’s time to come up with
realistic weight loss strategies that will actually work for you.

If your budget allows, a nutritionist can be a real help in doing this because
he or she can design meals that will appeal to you (and your family), provide
good nutrition, and keep you from being hungry all the time. If you’re designing
a diet program on your own, be prepared to try new strategies, evaluate them,
then keep what works and scrap the rest. Strategies you might try include:

* Simply not buying low-nutrition foods like cookies and candy. If they aren’t
in the house, you probably won’t get up and drive to the store to get them when
you’re in the mood for a diet-busting sweet. (If you want to keep some sweets
for the children, choose ones you don’t like.)

* Make it a point to snatch small bits of exercise during the day. Take the
stairs, offer to be the one who walks to the corner store for lunch. Park as far
away from the entrance as possible.

* If you’re dining out and the portions are huge, set half aside to take home –
then focus on how nice it’s going to be not to have to cook dinner tomorrow.

* Be creative. You’ll probably come up with some entirely new strategies
tailored especially for you.


Finally, be patient with yourself. If something doesn’t work consider it a
learning experience rather than a failure. And remember that finding a way of
eating that helps you lose weight and keep it off is worth however much time and
effort it takes.


====================
Where to get started
====================

For those wanting to learn more about how to diet and weight train to help lose
fat and build muscle I highly recommend Tom Venuto's ebook, Burn the Fat, Feed
the Muscle. To read more, just go to http://www.fatlosstips.com/burnfat

It's great for those wanting to incorporate weight training and dieting for
maximum fat loss.


Sincerely,

Anthony Ellis
http://www.fatlosstips.com/burnfat

Hi ladies,

It is a very windy day...there was a live wire down the street that I almost ran over with the car this afternoon...cops and fireman came down the street screaming at me...what a close call!

Well, hopefully I will not lose this post before the power goes off.

I went on tuesday to the spa for that "body wrap" I have been wondering how they work for years and finally decided to do one. Well, the postives were that I lost 4 inches (1 1/2 in my bust!) and now have very soft skin because they wrap you in aloe linen wrap that you sit in for 2 hours. I still have another one that I have to do in the next month. They make you pay for two up front. I really wanted to lose some in my stomach to jumpstart my weight loss plan but it did not budge. I am suppose to drink a gallon of water in the next few days to fliush my system. Well, it may not have helped remove fat cells but it did help me motivate my brain cells.

On saturday night we are having an adult halloween party. Everyone has to come either as a dead movie star or someone from a movie. It is being held in our" finally finished" media room in the basement. My husband and I are going as sharon stone and nick cage from leaving las vegas. I am making the basement look like a las vegas casino. Our frinds really get into the halloween parties and the costumes are great! I am going to try to wear a las vegas showgirl outfit. That is one reason why I needed that body wrap!

Well, I came up with a way to try to keep myself from eating too much. I wear my couple pair of skinny jeans instead of sweats so if I overeat I can feel it in my pants. Right now I am dying to unbutton my jeans but it is preventing me from eating cookies. Crazy logic but it seems to be working.

Cyan, I loved learning all about sushi and yes you did have me trying sushi a few months ago, I guess it is an aquired taste because I just am not sure about it yet. By the way I don't know if I told you but I was a this chic philly store that had a perfume called sushi...I am not sure who would like to smell like fish?

Miki, sorry I haven't been posting as much...just way to busy. I still do need you to hop on my shoulder and scold me when I want those sweets!

Newie, my goal is to also have a clutter free and clean house...oh well, maybe in another life!

Reina, Lisa, deena, where are you?

By the way I am still planning to have my weigh -in on fridays. My body fat is out of control this week I have had a high of 35%. My lowest last year was 28%. I need that old motivation again. I am still up for the christmas challenge.

Hi, everyone! Today has been a strange day. I've been very tired--probably because of all the work I did to get ready for our new bed, and now that it's all over, I feel like all the stuffing has been knocked out of me. Yesterday I also volunteered at our school's values program, called K4J (Kids for Jesus). We were teaching church manners to PreK, Kindergarten, and 1st Grade kids--part of teaching the value of humility is teaching humility before God--and I knelt down on my right knee 24 times during the day. Needless to say, my right thigh is quite sore today. I took it pretty slow today--rested quite a bit, and did housework, errands in between rest periods. I am so grateful to have time to rest. It was so hard when I was working.

I've been starving all day--probably due to my fatigue--I tried to eat sensibly all day and stay away from carbs for the most part. I tend to overeat when I am tired. Right now I'm making peanut butter cookies for the family--more economical than store bought ones. I tasted a tiny piece of batter, but I won't even touch a cookie. Peanut butter cookies are my favorite, and it will only take one to addict me. So, I just will stay away from them. I'm still doing my walking, though I missed yesterday because it was raining all day. It's really becoming a necessity in my day. Last night hubby and I watched the Florida Marlins upset the Chicago Cubs--it was absolute torture. They went from leading 3-0 to being down 8-3 in about 15 minutes. They have one more chance to get to the World Series--tonight. I certainly hope they win, or it will be very depressing here in Chicago for the winter. The game comes on in an hour.

Well, I have to get my girls finished with their dinner, make hubby's and mine, get the girls to finish their homework, and finish those cookies before the game. More soon. Take care, all.

Hi everybody :)

It was nice to come in and find new posts!!:D

Cyan, I am still standing firm on 195. I've been at that weight since July I think...maybe longer. At least it hasnt gone up any, right?? lol Just 30 more lbs, but at this rate, it might take years.:dizzy: I havent taken time yet to read the article you posted, but I plan to soon.

Debee, your party sounds fun. You always amaze me with your creativity. Good idea wearing your 'skinny' pants to keep you from overeating. I should have worn some today when I had Chinese buffet for lunch.:^: I'm still curious about those body wraps. Cant wait to hear the results of your second visit.

Newie, sounds like you've been going full steam ahead since you quit your job. Maybe you need to take a day just for yourself to regroup, rest and relax. How did the Cubs do tonite?? I'm sure Reina was watching.;)

Oh, almost forgot Cyan asked about sizes. The last couple pairs of pants and the last 2 or 3 shirts I bought were Size 16W. I still havent ventured into the regular sizes to try them...I still migrate to the 'plus' side of the stores. I think 16W is bigger than a regular 16 ..is that right? Anyway, this time last year, I was wearing 22/24W so 16 is an improvement. One cool thing was last week my mother-in-law bought my son a pull-on shirt, Men's Size Large, and I wore it to work Saturday. It fit me fine. I was very surprised. :)

Reina and Deana, how are ya'll doing? Lisa, not leaving you out....just thought those names sounded cute together.:lol: How are you and baby? Still doing great, I hope.

My eating still isnt the best, but still faithfully doing my total body workout tape on Mon, Wed and Fri and walking on other days. Guess that's why I havent gained, yet also havent lost. Gotta work on that food part.

Well all...better run. Gotta iron before bedtime.

Miki

Well here I am ladies. We were away at a missionary conference this past weekend. It was fun BUT they fed us all too well. I didn't even have the chance to get hungry. And boy can those ladies bake----ahhhhhhhhhh!!!!!
Well, I put on a pair of jeans last night and they were snug:-0 I was so disappointed. But my willpower is so pathetic. I haven't done the SBD cause I don't have the willpower to do it. I am wondering that if alot of my problem would be better if I exercised? I need to start doing that. SO today i will try to walk for at least 20min. That's my goal. I am not going to worry about what I eat today (though I won't go overboard), just try to start up exercising plus water and then go from there.
i am at a size 16 and I want to get down. Can I share something here? I am upset at my sister. She is 26yr and going to have the gasterio bypass (is that the correct word). Yes, she is overweight, at a good 300lbs, but she had started to lose weight on WW but didn't stick with it. This to me is just a lazy way to lose it I feel. I dare not say anything cause that will make me a bad person, but I feel that she should try other ways. My sil had it and lost 125lbs. so my sister is expecting to lose alot of weight. And knowing the family they will rub it in. I don't know if I am being bitter or jealous?
Anyway, it's 8am. I still have all day to walk. Maybe after I homeschool today or after lunch. I WILL get it in today ladies. If not someone kick me in my big backside:-)

Gotta go, josiah is waiting for breakfast.

Deana

It was so nice to see everybody posting again...for us ole timers...its been one year we have spent together in cyber world discussing, sharing and participating in each other's lives...isnt that amazing...I send you all a big hug and to many more years of friendship:grouphug:


Taiwan...I understand where you are coming from...I think you are a strong woman for doing it the traditional way....keep plugging away at it and if need be...My right leg is gearing up for a cyber kick:lol: A size 16...you must not go a size larger young lady...you have worked too hard for that....I challenge you to be a size 14 by christmas!!

hey Miki...16 is a huuuuuuuge improvement over 22/24...WOWOWOW You go girl....I challenge you to be a size 14W by christmas!! And no weight gain is amazing...and you should be very proud of yourself for your weight loss too. And slow weight loss is the best way to go...it means you are changing your eating habits for the long hawl...I think you are doing it the right way...so kudos to you.

Hey Newie...good to see you are enjoying your baseball:lol:

Debee...you know...funnily enough, the other day I too put on extra tight pants and it did keep me from overeating...I was so uncomfortable in them that the thought of eating was far away from my brain. I should do that whilst at home...the tight pressure on my stomach keeps me from overeating...great little trick..its almost like an outer lap band on your stomach from the outside!!


well back to work for me

Cyan

Well all, I walked .5miles today. Joshua on his scooter and Josiah in the stroller (he woke up right as I was putting my shoes on--kids and timing, I tell you!!). Eating hasn't been great so far, but that's ok, we are human right?

We'll see if I can get dh to walk another .5 with me today, I don't know if he will or not.

chat later all

Hi ladies,

Well, my tight jean diet is working! The last few days i have been good because my tight pants are a reminder of what I am eating. Cyan I guess we are on the same wavelenght...who knows this can become the new fad diet!

Miki, I am not too sure about the body wrap..it is motivating me to be more aware of drinking water and trying to not have junk that would be toxic to my body but how much is it in my mind or body I do not know. I guess all great diets start in your mind anyway.

Deana, come on and do the south beach diet. I will try it with you. Tell me when you want to start and we can come up with weekly menu plans. that way you will be losing the old fashion way and your sister-in-law will be the one who will be jealous.

Newie, hope your new bed is giving you a good night sleep.

Reina, Lisa hope to hear from you soon.

Well as far as sizes go I have been as high as a size 16 jeans after the birth of my first child. In the past few years I have been between a size 12 and 14. About six months ago when I was at my lowest weight I was in a size 8. I am now in a size 10 but it is tight. All my adult life was was a petite size 6 so a 12 is twice my size. I would like to stay a comfortable size 8. This week I did weigh in and am down to 131. My goal by next week is to break the 129 mark. By thanksgiving 125 and by dec. 1 120. The only way I will be able to do this is if I go on a diet..adkins or south beach for at least a month. I will alos need to not buy anymore sweets and be very careful with holiday parties. For exercise I will also need to walk and do yoga.

Well, its a plan...

Cyan, isnt it unreal that we've been posting here a year?? It really has flown by. In another way tho, I cant imagine not coming here. Seems like we've known each other forever.

Taiwan, glad you got to walk today. Exercise has been a big help to me. I know that for several weeks I didnt watch my eating at all...in fact, I am sure I ate too much, but I never slacked up on the exercise and I didnt gain an ounce. HOWEVER....when Kaylen, my niece was here for 4 days and I didnt walk at all, I was up 5 lbs. By the end of the next week, once I was back on schedule, the scale immediately moved right back down. It was good to know as long as I continue my workout plan, I am able to maintain and not gain. Now, if I can just cut back on the eating plus keep exercising, maybe the scale will go down again and not just sit still. I know what you mean about having mixed feelings about your sister's surgery. I had a friend who had it several years ago who was my size at the time. She lost down to a Size 4 and loved talking about it. I felt like it was a cop-out. She was just as able as I am to get off the couch and do some activity but she always used the weight as an excuse that she physically couldnt workout. She never even tried to start out walking gradually and work up to something more. It's pretty sad now. The weight fell off of her because she didnt eat much BUT it was because she physically COULDNT because of the surgery. Now, 5 years later, she has gained most of it back. Just because she was small didnt mean she had learned the right way to eat or to exercise. The surgery was all in vain and nowadays she stays depressed alot of the time because of her weight gain.

Newie, I happened up on the tail end of the sports news this morning and if I heard correctly it sounds like the Cubs had a terrible thing happen last nite with the fan tipping the ball away from the outfielder. Did I hear that correctly?? If so, I feel so bad for the Cubs!( and for the fan...I'm sure he didnt realize that would happen)

Debee, I strongly believe that weightloss is a mindset more than anything else. I know I had tried many times before, but this time something just "clicked" and I have been more determined than ever. Like Cyan said, thru the ups and downs, we're still here after an entire year!! I think that says alot. Coming here is a huge motivation for me also.

Reina and Lisa, hope you two can join us soon. We miss you!

Well ladies, have a great Friday and enjoy your weekend!

Miki

Hi, all! I only have a few minutes--am going to Milwaukee--2 hours from here--on a field trip with Veronica's class today. We leave at 6:15 this morning. Also, it's Veronica's birthday today--she's 13. How fast the time has flown!

Yes, girls--I do believe that exercise is the key. I really think that it helps us not to gain for sure, and it also facilitates the losing as well. It's also a stress reliever. I'm going to miss mine today. Hopefully the Milwaukee Zoo will provide some exercise. I just need to watch the Old Country Buffet at dinner tonight. I need to watch the carbs for sure.

Yes, the Cubs lost--Marlins in the World Series. ("Wait till next year" as they say.) Miki, you were right about the fan tipping the ball away from the outfielder. It caused such an uproar. The poor guy had to be escorted out of the stadium for his own safety. He later apologized publicly and said he didn't even see the outfielder there (he was jumping for the ball).

Let me get in on this gastro bypass discussion. Hubby's sister had it 1 1/2 years ago (by necessity--her health was declining--she is 52 years old--was easily over 300 pounds). She has lost steadily since, but you girls are right--they are forced to eat correctly--similarly to Atkins--protein first, then veggies--carbs last. I've heard stories about my sil eating too much and then getting sick from it. Another girl--31 years old, I think--mother of a girl in my Kathleen's class--had it done around the same time--elective--didn't want to be fat anymore--knees bothered her. I don't know more. She is now model size--looks really good, but it seemed so easy for her--weight just fell off. Are they really addressing the "whys" of overeating? For me, that's everything. I know what we do is a lot harder, but I also think we learn a lot more about life and ourselves and really grow inside while we shrink outside. Would I do the bypass thing if I were really obese? I don't know--would never want to get to that point. I am grateful, though, for every step of progress I make.

By the way, Miki, on Wednesday I did pretty much take the day for myself--laid around, napped, watched TV--I was very tired after the whole furniture moving thing. I am very grateful to have been able to have that day.

Well, girls, I have to go. I've got an hour to get everything set to go on the field trip. Sorry I couldn't make more personal replies. Have a good weekend all. Bye for now.

Its my favorite day of the week!!! I love fridays...yes I do...sing along girls!!!:lol:

I plan on going hiking tomorrow to Mont Rigaud...it should be fun and very colorful with all the leaves changing and all.

I am nearing the end of my cleansing and this is what I have to report...it cleaned me out...if ya know what I mean. I had a cold starting the day before I started the process and the next day, I swear...the cold was gone...amazing....I feel great ...no ill feelings...I did get a headache a few days into it...but after that, it all cleared up. Thats about it.

Hey Miki...I hear your walking shoes calling out for you:lol: Isnt it great to feel stronger cause you work out your body regularly...it feels so empowering to do that...good stuff.

Debs...the tight pants are the best for me...I wore them at home last night and I didnt binge at all...too tight and uncomfortable to eat...but my waist hurts today...argh!

Newie...how's your hubby doing at work? Are things ok? And are you enjoying your new furniture? How fun..I love redecorating...Debbee just finished redecorating her basement...right? and her lake house.

How many weeks till american thanks giving?

new mini goal is to be a size smaller by then!! that would make it a size 12p if I purchase jones newyork trousers...my sizes vary depending on brand...anywear between a 10 to 14...go figure!

Ok ladies...have a great weekend and I will post back here on monday.

Big hugs to you all

Cyan

Hey girls. How are all of you. Our computer has been in limbo for about 2 weeks now off and on. I, of course, have been busy with school and being sick! I have thought about all of you though!;)

Deanna, I read your post about your sister having gastric bypass surgery. I understand your frustration about her being lazy and not willing to work at it. However, my sister-in-law is having the surgery next month. She's around the 300 lb mark also. I've seen her on so many diets. She's spent so much money and time on trying to lose weight. The thing is is that when you weigh that much, losing even 20 or 50 pounds doesn't make that much of a difference. You still look fat and other people don't even notice. It's psychologically and emotionally difficult. I'm so excited for my sister-in-law. She's been overweight her entire life. So, my advice to you is to support your sister in this decision. Also, the surgery is very risky and she will need all the love and support she can get.

Okay, sorry if that was preachy. I don't do that very often. :) :soap:

Well, I'm doing fine. I'm still feeling sick. I'm glad for that though. It lets me know that everything is okay. However, it's hard to get anything done because I'm so tired and sick all the time. Hubby has been very supportive though and understanding that I need to rest and that I don't have any energy.

I've been eating horribly until yesterday. I'm back on Adkins. I don't want to have a Huge baby and gain more weight than neccessary.

Well, that's all for now!

Lisa

Hi ladies,

Just a quick note...

Stressed out ...the house is still a mess and I am having 40 people her saturday for my halloween party...thank god the lights will be dim and the natural cobwebs that I have can fit into the theme. I ran through Costco today and probably did 2 miles in the store but I bought the creme puffs there for the party...they are my downfall...the best melt in your mouth good..after the party I will have to either give them away or throw them out.

Well, I need to get my vegas showgirl outfit together for the party...I hope I can fit into the skirt...maybe the skirt will be tight and prevent me from eating the party food.

By the way we should have a list of measurement aand weight and the top five things we learned in the year since we have been posting together..kind of an aniiversary update. What do you think?

Hi everyone

Just stopped in to say hello. Ready for the weekend..Yeahh! Tomorrow is Josh's 14th birthday. Having a big family get-together tomorrow nite....ham, potato salad, baked beans, cole slaw, corn, lemon icebox pie, fruit salad, brownies, etc etc etc. Better wear those 'skinny' pants for sure.:lol: Oh, by the way, it's also my mom's birthday. Cool huh?

Dont have alot of time because I want to try to do most of my housework tonite. I hate waking up to it on Saturday mornings. I'll post again later tomorrow nite.

Lisa glad your computer is back in working order. :) Newie, I'm sure walking around the zoo will be lots of exercise. Debee, have fun at your party! Cyan, think of us while you're on that beautiful hike. Reina and Taiwan, have a good weekend. Hope I didnt miss anyone. If so, it was totally unintentional.

Bye for now...

MIKI

Hi, everyone! The field trip was wonderful yesterday. The zoo was great--good for walking too--we also went to the Milwaukee Public Museum--kind of like a history museum--and the Jelly Belly jelly bean factory. We ate dinner at an Old Country Buffet. Kids sang Happy Birthday to my daughter on the bus, and I had time to spend with some of the other mothers that I haven't seen much--one chaperone for about every 3 kids. Foodwise I did very well. I wasn't interested in jelly beans, but I did buy a small amount of chocolate covered coffee beans--I LOVE coffee and chocolate together--and enjoyed eating every one of them. For dinner I had one piece of fried chicken, green beans, brussels sprouts, salad w/ blue cheese dressing, and a small amount of a warm chocolate dessert that seemed like some kind of bread pudding. We did have cake and ice cream for Veronica when the day ended, but I felt overall that I did very well. I decided to eat the chocolate things on the trip because I have been feeling sad lately, and I just wanted to treat myself with a luxury I don't usually have. I am trying to get more back to the Atkins direction--low carb, high protein. I want to lose more weight, and for me, that's the way to do it.

Cyan, in response to your question about my husband's job, we don't know any more than we knew six weeks ago. No one has said anything to him about his performance since that one talk, and he has been trying to get help when he has a problem and overall do better. He told me he is doing his best. He is due for his regular yearly review, and his supervisor did mention to him this week that it will be delayed for about a month because the owner of the company, who okays raises, etc., is about a month behind with reviews. So we have absolutely no idea what will happen. He has been sending out his resume in response to openings he has learned about because he doesn't want to be unemployed, but no companies have replied as of yet. I don't know what to think. We both find it to be very difficult to be left hanging. John gets very down on the weekends. I pray a lot about it and try to support him the best I can, but there's this unanswered question that hangs over us. It just seems to me to be so unbelieveable that I would feel that quitting my job was such a right thing to do, and that staying home right now seems to be where I belong, and then he would lose his job too. It sort of feels like there might be a bad dream about to happen. Anyway, I won't go on and on about it. I try to have faith that things will work out, and patience seems to be the virtue most on the agenda lately. We do love our new bed. There is so much more room. John still takes all the covers, but that's not too much of a problem because I get night sweats and don't need them too much anyway. Our cat had some problems with the change. She couldn't figure out where the old bed (her bed) went, and it took her a couple of days before she would accept the new one. It was also higher too. She has since started climbing up on it and sleeping there all day and all night too. We're getting the carpeting on November 5. I have some more sponge painting and wall washing to finish before then, but I have plenty of time. It will be so fun to have the whole house decorated at the same time. Also, American Thanksgiving is November 27.

Lisa, hang in there with the all-day sickness and exhaustion. Do you usually feel better after the first trimester? I always felt wonderful during the second trimester and then tired again during the third from carrying those babies in front of me (both of mine were big--8 lb. 14.5 oz for #1, and 9 lb. 5 oz. for #2--and carried in the front--couldn't sit down or get up with any comfort, bend over, get out of bed without hubby giving me a push for the last 6 weeks--big heads that sat on my sciatic nerve too). Also, you are right about severely obese people getting so frustrated about weight loss because there is so much to lose. I remember my sil trying to lose on diets. She would lose some, but it wouldn't really show much, and then it would come right back. I do think, though, that even with the gastric bypass, some kind of counseling would be a good thing, especially if there were emotional/psychological issues that needed to be addressed. I too have heard of people with that surgery even gaining the weight back. Do you know if people with the bypass surgery get counseling to help them cope with emotions they might have dealt with before by eating?

Miki, have a nice birthday party. Isn't it amazing how fast these kids are growing up. Debee, I hope you enjoy your Halloween party. I am not really a Halloween person myself, though I really loved making my girls' costumes when they were little. Veronica is going to her first boy/girl party on Halloween evening--7-10 p.m. only. It's with her classmates and lots of adults and structured activities at one boy's house. That is much better than running the streets. Can you imagine? Big city at night (neighborhood gangs in particular roam then), Friday night Halloween, and teenagers? Now that is a scary scenario.

Well, it is time for me to get going. I've had a headache all day today, and I am going to lie down for about 45 minutes in that fine new bed and see if I can take a nap before cooking dinner. More soon. Bye for now.

Oh I do wish I was sleeping right now...I have had problems sleeping the last couple of nights...I went to a dinner party saturday night and left rather early...by the time I finished driving everybody home and got home myself...it was 3 am and I tossed and turned all night long...And sunday night...I didnt get to sleep until 2 am and didnt sleep well at that...I had so many vivid dreams...I had this one dream that I had cancer on my bottom lip!!!! and that things were so backed up here in our hospitals that I had to wait because they considered this elective surgery...anyway....so it was not a restful sleep.

So...I feel like a zombie right now and I am not sure if I can stay awake all day today ...so I might go home early and sleep sleep sleep.

later ladies

Cyan

Hey Ladies,

Sorry I have been in Limbo. Last week, we were overwhelmed with work and the Cubs... So I wasn't even thinking of getting on my PC at night.

Work has been very hectic, So many fundraisers coming up and meetings to plan, and not enough time to myself.

Flav and I had a long talk yesterday about me gettting back on track. I have just lost myself, I can't get myself to eat right, or think about anything. I am starting back at Curves, which is closer to my home now, so maybe the working out first and then the eating will kick in.

I have to say, with much disgust, I am back into an 18 again......I just hit 16 when my life fell apart this past summer, so I am back where I started...

I know I could come here for support, but to be honest, I am in a self pity mode, and I have to get myself out of that alone! I am the way I am because I am NOT doing anything about it...

I hope you are all true to yourselves and keep up the long hard work that everyone has put into themselves. Don't be like me and forget why you are doing what you are doing!

I will find myself, and when I do, I will be here full-force! Until then, I will check in periodically....

I love you all and wish you continued success...if you all need to reach me, you can email me at rfernandez@childrensmemorial.org

Take care and I will talk to you all very soon!

Today is such a crappy day weather wise...it rained all night and it looks like it will rain all day too with the possibility of snowing late this evening...ugh.

I finally got some sleep last night..I took a sinus cold med with a sleep aid...I was out like a light.

Reina...you are a strong brave gal and I hope you find your strenght and get back on track. As you well know, we are hear for you and we dont mind that you are in a self pity mode...so dont feel like you cant post here because you fell off the wagon. Come back soon and let us know how you are doing. Remeber, this place is not only for the successful losers...its here for everyone who needs help, support and a littly cyber kick :s:

Well as usual, I am at work so I best be getting back to it...its been very busy .

Later ladies

Cyan

Well, I don't know if I will be posting the next few weeks ladies. I may have access to a computer and then again maybe not:-) We are traveling to FL--stopping at SC and GA on the way down and another spot in SC on the way back. I probably will get more serious after those 2 weeks since when visiting others, you kinda depend on want they want to eat, etc.

Reina--sorry to hear you will be leaving, but you know what is best. Hope you can work things out and come back to us soon. Remember to stop in every so often.

Cyan, hope you are feeling better. My mom is battling a cold of somekind and having 2 grandsons running around and being noisy isn't helping her much either.

Miki-how did the birthday party go? I am sure everyone had fun. We didn't do a party for my Joshua, which is fine for me, I am not a party type person. how is your new video's going? I need to get something I can use here in the states

Debee, have you recuperated from your party yet?:-) A list of measurements and what we have learned would be good. Hey, I would like to put you all on my Christmas card list, those who want to be, can you e-mail me your address? deanapan@yahoo.com just write me there.

Newie, how are things going now? my mom said she was on atkins, but then had problems with her thyroid (it's a hereditary in our family)so she went off. I am not sure what I want to do, but gotta do something.

Well, all, I need to let my 5yr old use the computer (that I promised to let him get on 30min ago proves he is learning patience!!)

Love ya all. We gotta keep our chins up ladies!!! GO GO GO

Deana

:grouphug: A hug for Reina! Sorry you're feeling depressed lately. I hope getting back to Curves will make you feel better soon. I know with me, when I get out of exercising, I end up getting in a bad mood. Usually I dont even realize that's the problem at first, then it hits me. My sis is the same way. Both of us get that way when we dont get to walk. It's such a stress relief to exercise. Even when my eating isnt great, I still feel better doing something active each day. Please be sure to check in with us when you can to let us know how you're doing. We miss you when you're not around!

Cyan, glad you finally got some sleep! It's a miserable feeling to be tired and really wanna sleep but not being able to. I bet all that rain helped huh?

Taiwan, we had fun the other nite but I ate too much just like I knew I would. Back on track this week tho. :) I'm still loving my new video tape. This is my 3rd week of using it on Mon, Wed, and Fridays. Still walking 3 miles on the other days. Hope you have a safe trip travelling the next few weeks. Pop in anytime you can.

Newie, sounds like you had fun on the field trip with your daughter. Did you get rid of that awful headache?

Debee, how are things with you? How was the party? Did you wear your "skinny" skirt??:lol:

Lisa, hoping things are great with you.

Well all, I gotta go for now. Talk to ya'll again soon.

Miki

Hi, all! Just wanted to send a quick note--I've not been in the best of moods the last couple of days--I think I've been grieving my job a bit--not that I want to go back or anything--I don't. I think I am just going through the stages of loss/death/grief. I'm going through an angry stage--a "how could I have trusted?" stage. I don't worry about it. I know the feelings will pass in time. I also sometimes get down with hubby's uncertainty. Still, I'm hanging in there a day at a time.

I've got a concrete goal to work for in my quest to lose a few pounds--my mother-in-law ordered a jacket/blazer from TV that was too big for her--guess what? It is just the tiniest bit too tight for me--and gorgeous. I figure if I lose down to 150 lbs., it will fit me. That's 8 1/2 lbs. I'm going to try for Christmas as a goal.

Reina--hang in there--we're behind you 100%! Sometimes it can get pretty rough, and worse when we get really off track. Please do not beat yourself up about it. You can do it.

Well, everybody, take care. Don't work too hard, anyone. Take care. More later.:)

Hey Girls

On Monday morning I orderd hubcaps for my winter tires...I have mags for my summer tires but I dont want to use them in the winter...anyhoo, they quoted me a price of 22.84 each for newbeetle hubcaps..I was very happy with that price so I ordered them...they said it would be ready wednesday and that I could pay by phone....so I call this morning and they ordered caps for my mag wheels...:dz: well I dont need those I say...I need hubcaps for my steel rims!!! Oh,..so sorry well we have two in stock but we will have to order two more which we will have tomorrow...and the price is now 40 dollars each:mad: and that's there cost price plus 10 percent..or else they would of cost me 58 dollars...yeesh! That dealership has made nothing but mistakes ...and then they have to correct them...thank goodness they have so far but I am afraid to bring in my car for maintenance for fear they will screw something up:(

Well that was that...other than that...I have been sticking to my food allowances and doing pretty well...I havent been exercising so I gotta concentrate on doing that.

later

Cyan

Hey girls! How are ya!:)

Reina, hope you get back in the groove real soon! Life is difficult enough without being a woman with weight issues. It just doesn't seem fair sometimes.:?:

Cyan, the problems with that dealership sure do sound frustrating. However, I'm jealous of your new car!

Well, as for me...I'll be nine weeks pregnant tomorrow (Thursday). Tomorrow is my first OB visit. Today I went to my family doctor because I HAVE A HERNIA!!!:shrug: Can you believe it?! I'm not sure the cause, but I think it's because of my surgery in January and my growing uterus has made it worse. Anyway, the doctor said she is going to talk to the other doctors and see if they should try and get me through the whole pregnancy or if my growing belly will only make it worse. She said that they will get back to me.

For some good news, I got a job! I start on November 14. It's a Nurse Tech job PRN on the Medical Telemetry floor. I'm so excited. I think it will be very helpful to get experience. They are very flexible with scheduling and everything so I think it will work out great!

Well, that's all for now!

Lisa:wave:

Lisa, Congratulations on your new job!!:bravo: When do you start? What exactly is the 'telemetry' floor?? (sorry if that's a dumb question, but I dont know that term:dizzy: ) Sorry to hear about the hernia...are you having any pain from it? Let us know when you find out something definite about what the docs want to do.

Cyan, how I wish we could combine our efforts! I'm not having a problem exercising...just with my eating. Wouldnt it be nice if I could exercise for you and you could eat right for me??:lol:

Newie, that new blazer sounds like a good motivator for a Christmas goal. Maybe you can make your goal a little early and have it to wear to some Christmas parties.:hat: I think the feelings you're having about your job are perfectly normal. Just try to think of all the positives that have come of it tho. You're more in control, are getting your house organized and fixed up, have lots more time for family, and are getting in many more walks than before. That free time probably won't last forever so try to enjoy every minute you can. :)

When I have time, I'll try to locate my measurements again. It has been an entire year now since I started this healthier life. I'm sooo hoping for a loss this week. I'll let ya know.

Hope the rest of you ladies are having a nice week. Bye for now..

Miki

Hi, all! Not much to report today. I'm doing my walking--weather is brisk--good for it. I'm doing pretty well on eating, except I had a couple of sweet things today--two pieces of broken cookie and a sample of jelly beans--neither was too good. I had my yearly mammogram today--they're no big deal to me--hopefully nothing wrong.

Cyan--sorry for the runaround/mess with your car dealership. Isn't it the pits when they can't get it right? It makes you wonder about people sometimes.

Lisa--take care with that hernia--don't overdo, especially with your new job.

Miki--how are things going for you? You must be super busy. It's been quite a few days since we've heard from you. Take care.

Taiwan and Debee--hope all is good for both of you.

I'm feeling better inside my head today--did some research online on abusive/bully bosses last night--in response to my sadness about my former job and boss. I think the old girl was a workplace bully--a number of the feelings I've had lately--anger, guilt, lack of confidence, a strange mix of feelings--are common with people who have been bullied on the job. What I didn't realize when I was there was that the obvious confrontations she and I had were not the only incidents of abuse I received. Her attitude and expectations, way of communicating and treating me on a daily basis--all of them were abusive, whether subtle or overt--she showed no respect for me as competent person, waved her power around, made the workplace a catch-22 situation. I knew deep down it wasn't right, but I thought I could handle it. It was interesting to read the physical and emotional effects of workplace abuse on the worker. Not allowing her to continue the abuse was a wonderful thing I did, but the suddenness of quitting was a big shock to my system--almost like being laid off. I'm dealing with lots of feelings of betrayal and untrust and loss of a way of life, even though I am sure I belong at home right now. Hubby told me this morning that family life is better with me a stay-at-home mom. Anyway, I don't want to go on and on. Some might say, "It's over. Put it in the past and go on." And I will. I'm just one of those people who has to work through all negative feelings. If I don't, I'll probably behave in an unhealthy way over it--like maybe eat or get depressed or something.

Well, anyway, enough for today. Tomorrow I'm going to sponge a star border on my 13 year-old Veronica's room. I'll let you know how it turns out. Bye for now.

Hi Ladies,

Just a real quick note before I put the kids to bed. The party on Saturday night was great. I wore a seqined black and red jacket, black shorts, and black tank top and black fishnets. I had a feathered head dress and everyone said I looked like a show girl..oh well I guess it was very dark and my friends were very drunk!

I have been real busy..I am having a party for Jake on Friday night and next Sunday having one for Jimmy. I also might be on Home and Garden network television show on antique collecting. They did a pre-production filming on monday. I will let you all know if I am selected. This way you will get to see me and my house.

Foodwise I have been very bad too many sweets!

Man has it every been busy at work...work work work ...and then more work...anyhoo

Congrats Lisa:cp: on getting your first nursing job...ditto what Miki says...explain the telemetry question. I hope your hernia problem has a quick resolution and I hope that you are not suffering from it too badly...yeesh keep us posted.

Hey Miki...you and I should be one person...that would be cool...plus I would have a husband:lol: instead of being single but I do have my eye on this guy that seems rather interesting...he is well educated, has his own building and loves to cook...so stay tuned girls:smug:

Hey Newie...you know what I say...good riddance (sp?) to that horrible bully boss...who needs that..life is too short and you dont need a b**ch like that making your life hard. May she never darken your doorstep again...movin on girlfriend...keep the faith and you shall see good things will come your way.

Hey Debbie...why would your friends be drunk or your basement too dark....You are a hot babe...repeat after me...I am a hot babe...I am woman...hear me roar!!!!!!! :lol: So ..please...no self depricating comments or disparaging thoughts.

Well I finally got my hubcaps...and my friend is kind enough to pick them up for me...so I will have them in my hands by this evening

Later ladies...stay strong and positive
Cyan

Hi, ladies--it's been a long, long day today--lots has happened. Last night hubby came home and told me that his supervisor asked him to come to a meeting in the HR manager's office on Friday at 11. She didn't say why. He is due for a yearly review--the only thing is that a week ago the supervisor told him that reviews were running about a month late. Tomorrow is only two weeks late for him. We're thinking it's about what was said to him 6 weeks ago--improve or else. We don't know for sure, and I'm sure I sound as if I'm looking at the situation pessimistically, but John has already been laid off twice since 1995, and it felt both times like we were kicked in the stomach and thrown into the air. I guess we're trying to prepare for the worst--don't want to be caught off-guard or in denial. Anyway, I have made sure I have taken care of all doctor things--have been doing that anyway, but today I refilled prescriptions and picked up Veronica's new glasses. All those things are covered by health insurance and won't be if he is let go. I didn't sleep well last night--kitty slept on the couch right next to my heart all night. She is such a blessing in our lives. I spent a lot of time praying today--that we'll be taken care of. We always have, and I have faith we always will be, but I get very panicky when financial insecurity strikes. I was raised with an alcoholic father who spent all the money and had trouble keeping a job, and my mother vented all her money worries on me. Anyway, I worry about money a lot.

Speaking about money and prayer--yes, I am going to speak about both in the same sentence, and after that last paragraph where I was very down. This morning I received an answer to my prayer about being taken care of--talk about God listening and then answering!! About an hour after I talked to a friend and my mother-in-law this morning about what was happening to hubby and me, and they told me to have faith in God--that all would work out, I received a phone call from the principal of my kids' school asking me if I would be willing to substitute teach the first grade for about 3 months because the regular teacher is having surgery in about 4 weeks. Most of my experience is 6th grade and up, but I've worked some with smaller children and have no problem relating to them. The subject matter is the challenge for me. Anyway, I accepted her offer, so I will start working every day beginning around November 24 or so. To me that is a real God sign that everything will be all right, though it might not be easy, and I will probably be scared all along the way. The best thing about the sub job is that I will be near my girls, and I will have time to get my house the rest of the way in order before starting. Will it last longer than 3 months? Possibly. This same teacher had surgery like this (back) last year, and ended up having to have it redone. The principal told me that might happen again, and I committed to a second stint if needed. It's really important to have consistency for the kids. Anyway, Miki, you're right. I will be busy sooner than I think, so I am going to appreciate the slower pace I have now. And about the old job--I'm glad I got in touch with the "bully boss" concept. It has helped me understand quite a bit of what I experienced in that job, and you're definitely right, Cyan, I DON'T want to work in that type of situation. If I need teaching materials for my class, I won't even go into her stores. I know of others I can go to. I never want to see her again. Also, when I am subbing, I am going to do my walking after school--maybe before going home, even--take my kids with me--get them some exercise too.

Debee--it sounded like your party was great. Cyan is right. Don't put yourself down. We are all beautiful. I love shows about antiques--too bad I don't have cable TV, or I'd look for you on TV with your antiques.

Well, everyone, got to go--it's time to make dinner. John will be home in an hour. I'll let everyone know tomorrow what happened with his job. Bye for now--thanks for listening.

Only time for a very quick post...Josh is dying for me to get off and let him chat with his friends.:dizzy:

Just had to share my good news tho....Finally today I was off that 195 mark I've been stuck on since June or July!! This morning it was between 192 and 193!! I know that's not a huge amount but compared to NOTHING, it's GREAT! :)

Oh, more good news...today was teacher/parent conferences at school and both kids made Honor Roll.....Hooray again!

Ok, there's more...I only had to work one day this week...so far anyway. I've enjoyed it so much. I fill in for all the depts for whoever happens to be off, and for the last 3 days, every person was actually there! That's rare.

Cyan, keep us informed about that new guy.;)

Newie, see how it all works out? You were worried about finances and already you have something in the works. :)

Debee, if you get on the show, you've got to let us know when. That would be so exciting to watch you! I'd have to get all my friends to tune in also. I'd tell them I know a celebrity.:lol:

Well, Josh is really griping because he has to go to bed shortly and hasnt had a chance to chat yet. Guess I'll give in since he made Honor Roll...lol

Bye for now

Miki

Its FRIIIIIIIIIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAYYYYYYYYYYY:dance:

Need I say more!!

Looking forward to sleeping in...ahhhh can't wait.

Hey Miki congrats on getting off the plateau...you are on your way to slimdown ville...enjoy!! And it must feel good to have such great hard working kids.

Hey Newie...I hope things work out for your husband today...let us know what happened and how it turned out. And good to hear that you have a teaching job set up for november...its good to know that things are working out...slowly but surely...big hug to you and yes...cats are amazing...they are very intuned with their family members emotions...give kitty a little hug and kiss for me.

Well I got my hubcaps ...so now silverbeega has her new snow shoes..all shiny and new:lol:

Ok, gotta go

have a great weekend everybody

Cyan

MICKEY!!! you go girl :cool: :cool: :cool: :strong: :bravo: :cp: :hat:

I am so excited for you. My hero, you are an encouragement to me!!

Well, I need to get off my friends computer. Talk to you all later.

Deana

Thanks Cyan and Deana. :) I am far from being 'hero' status tho.:lol: Hope everyone has a good weekend. I have to work tomorrow but it's ok since I was off 4 days this week. No news, just wanted to say hello.

Miki

Hi, all--well, it happened. Hubby was let go from his job yesterday. We really expected it. At least the suspense is over now. Yesterday we were all just very tired and relieved. I had trouble sleeping last night--hot flash woke me up--this morning I have this heavy feeling in the pit of my stomach. I just keep praying. I know it will all work out. It always has in the past. It's just hard. This morning we are scheduled to close on our home equity line. We're just going to go over and sign the papers and be done with it. Hopefully it will be a simple matter without any questions. Having our bills consolidated will make life much easier during this time. There will be one bill to pay instead of 5. Of course there will be unemployment compensation, plus what I will be making for three months. I just find the uncertainty of it all very difficult. It will just be one day at a time, with a lot of prayer. If you ladies are religious or use prayer in your lives, will you all please pray for us? And thank you so much for all the support you are giving me each day.

A side note--I lost 2 pounds this week--probably stress induced, plus I was also watching the food more--but I'll take the loss however I can get it. Monday I will be subbing for the 1st grade teacher half the day--she has a doctor appointment.

Well, have to go. I want to e-mail my mother with the news. Talk to you all soon.

Newie, so sorry to hear your news! As bad as it is, at least you arent still in limbo wondering each day if and when. I will definitely have you and your family in my prayers. Now that it's fact and not speculation, your hubby will be able to get out and see what's out there for him. It's hard to look for a job while working at one. I hope he finds one that he just absolutely loves!! ( and SOON)

Congrats on the 2 lb loss...just sorry it came off due to stress.

One day at a time is the only way to handle your situation. Sounds like you have a good attitude about it which should help your hubby. He'll need that!

Well, better run for now. Worked today and have things at home I need to get done now.

Miki

WEnt to a fall festival for Awanas (Christian kids program alot of churches have) and so eating was nothing near great. Walked around alot though.

Newie, sorry about all that is going on. Something positive will come of it. Take some special time during the days with your dh and relax. Something better is near, I just feel it.

Take care all. Still in SC, traveling to FL on Monday. Not fun!!!

Newie...sorry to hear about your hubby's job loss...I will say a special prayer for you and your family. Stay strong, positive and motivated and hopefully soon , your hubby will be back on his feet and doing a job he loves.

I had an uneventful weekend...lots of rain ..ugh..I did see Mystic River...very good film

I had this craving for smoked salmon and in two days time..I ate 1lb of it...yep 454 grams of smoked salmon..it was soooooo good...I also had sole this weekend...and shrimp..looks like I am on a fish kick...at least they are low in fat and very nutritious for you...which is good.


oh I almost forgot...congrats Newie on losing two pounds...rock on!

well as usual, its very busy here at work and I best get back to the task at hand

later ladies

Cyan

Hi ladies,


Sorry I have not been abloe to post as much as I would like.


Newie, remember when one door closes another one opens..I always found it to be true that sometimes hard times just make you appreciate the good times more.

Cyan, now young lady we all want to know about this new guy! Have you madee any moves yet?

Miki, pretty soon you will be in a size 6. You are one motivated woman. Just think of how well you did in the past year! I will let you know if I am selected for the show. The are planning to film Novemebr 10-14 so I will know soon. This way you can see all the junk that I pick up from auctions every Thursday.

Deena, hope you are having fun traveling.

Lisa, how are you feeling? Do you have any names for the baby picked out yet?

Reina, I miss you I hope you come back soon.

Foodwise it has been very tough for me in the past few months I think I have too many party foods around the house that I keep eating. Plus we have had so much rain that I have not been walking.

I was hoping to lose by Christmas but I am just not sure how. I think I will try the 90/10 diet that I did last year. I need to plan out my meals and have a plan to lose weight. I think I am pretty active with day to day things I do ...it is more about the eating...the mindless snacking and bad choices and big portion sizes.

Well, need to go and deal with the children...

Hi everybody!

Ok confession time...I dont know what's wrong with me. I finally get off that plateau so Fri and Sat I go and eat too much!!! I'm always sooo mad afterwards so why do it in the first place?:?: Back on track as of Sunday. Walked 2 1/2 miles yesterday, did 10 min on my Air Walker, had healthy small meals and did well with eating today also. Did my workout tape before work this morning so hoping I didnt do too much damage Fri and Sat.

Taiwan, hope you had a safe trip travelling today. Glad that you've been able to find access to a computer so far. I keep meaning to send you my home address like you asked but cant remember by the time I finish posting. I'll try to do that soon.

Speaking of that, I'd like to have everyone's home addresses if it's ok with all of you. It would be fun to send a note or card on special occasions or just to say hello sometimes.

Cyan, if you have to have a craving, at least it's a healthy one!;) Is this interesting new guy the one who gave you the appliance recently? (cant remember what it was...refrigerator or washer or dryer maybe?)

Debee, glad you were able to drop in again. We missed ya. Cant wait to hear if you got the show. Christmas is still almost 2 months from now so there's time for a loss if we all get to work on it. I'm like you, my eating kinda erases my exercise at times.:lol: Dont give up...I know we can do it if we just set our minds to it!! I think that's over half the battle.

Newie, today started a new week. I hope this one is a good one for you and your family. :) How did the meeting at the bank go?

Ok, I'm going to TRY to motivate myself to get off here and hop on that Air Walker again. I'll let you know tomorrow if I made it.

Miki

Hi, everyone--thanks for all of your encouragement and prayers. I have faith that hubby will find a job that's right for him, hopefully soon. Yesterday he applied for unemployment benefits--he's entitled to 6 months--it's almost as much as he was bringing home a week, thank God. The meeting at the bank went well--it felt weird, though, like we had this secret. We only have to go back Thursday afternoon and sign one more paper--after a three-day waiting period, and then all is done. I hated not sharing with our friend, but we really need this arrangement. It will be so much easier managing with one payment rather than five, which is what we had before. And we know that there will be no way we will miss a payment--we have funds that can be drawn upon if needed. And we will be able to pay off all we owe so much faster this way.

I had the first grade class for three hours yesterday while the teacher went to the doctor. It was considerably more difficult than I had thought it would be, especially management of the children; however, I did walk in cold, without a clue as to what was going on or what this teacher's schedule or style was. I did math, handwriting, art, and daily oral language. I realized that there is really one word that sums it all up--organization. I also saw that the attention span of the children was extremely short, and that they could not listen for more than maybe 15 or 20 minutes before needing a different activity. I also need a very structured, set routine, which I will plan. This teacher doesn't have that. The order in which she teaches things is different every day, she said to me. I think the kids will benefit in this situation from a set schedule too. I will officially start November 26 and work for about three months. I received a summons for jury duty scheduled for November 21; I'm on standby for a one-case, one jury system. Hopefully I'll get out of there in one day.

Hubby was very sad yesterday--I think he is afraid he won't find a new job. It doesn't help that his brother and my brother are also out of work at this time. I keep telling him he can't think about failure or what if's--that he has to keep his sight on and expect to get what he wants (a new job) and accept nothing else (not finding one) as an option.

I'm continuing my walking schedule. It relieves stress that I feel in the morning. It's a great prayer time too. It's gotten quite cold, though, not out of the 40's yesterday. I don't care, though. I'm going to keep it up.

Boy, Cyan, you sure are a fish girl. I can eat it from time to time, but I've never craved it before in my life.

Miki, your experience with eating too much after leaving a plateau reminds me of something I've done a few times in the past. It's almost as if a weight loss for me deserved some kind of eating reward. I would then overeat and then sometimes undo my success. I don't know if I couldn't handle it or what.

Debee, maybe I can see that show you might be on at my mother-in-law's house. She has cable. I'll keep my eyes on your posts to see if and when you are on the show.

Lisa, Taiwan, and Reina--I hope all is going well with you.

Time for me to go--kids have to go to school. Bye for now.

Newie..hang in there...things work out for the best and hubby will be back on his feet. I love fish...shellfish and seafood in particular...my lunch is a tuna sandwich:lol: yum yum

Miki you are the most determined lady I know...good on you...no, its not the guy who gave me the free dryer..although a very nice gentleman at that. I am not sure if this new guy likes me..although he has invited me over to a few dinner parties...group dinner parties which was very nice of him. He enjoys gourmet cooking...but I am not sure if I like him more than a friend..too early to tell. I will probably invite him out to a movie to see what I feel and of course if he likes me too...but its all too early and I am not in a rush...not at all.

Hey Debee...Miki is right...its not too late...you can still lose some weight by christmas...stay motivated and how cool...your home is being featured on a show...really cool.

Hey Taiwan...all that travelling...stay strong and positive...I send you a hug

Cyan

Hi ladies...

I didnt have to work again today which makes not eating harder since I'm here and food is readily accessible so I had several smaller meals throughout the day instead of the normal 3. For breakfast, I had oatmeal. About 2 hrs later, I had sugar free, fat free orange jello, for lunch Campbells Select Chicken Noodle soup, hour or so later some lettuce with Fat Free dressing. I had a late afternoon snack of string cheese then tonite altho I fried chicken strips and fixed mashed potatoes for my family, for myself I fixed stir fry veggies with a little chicken. I will probably have some kind of healthy snack sometime before bedtime but I think my calories will still be pretty low for the day. (my snack will probably be sugar free, fat free, white chocolate instant pudding with a little whipped cream..yummmy!)

I did end up getting on that Air Walker last and went for 30 min. I did that again this morning early then this afternoon, my sis and I walked 3 miles. I'm going to have to break down and get myself some new walking shoes before I walk again. The ones I've been wearing are completely worn down. There is practically no sole left from being shaved off by the pavement.:lol:

How is everyone else doing in the exercise and eating departments? Is everyone getting hyped up to try to make some goals by Christmas?? Come on everybody...We can do it!!!

Well, now that it gets dark earlier, the time slips up on us, and kids end up being here after dark and need a ride home so they dont have to walk in the dark. Better run as duty calls.

Miki

Hi ladies,

I just got home from a night course that I am taking in landscape design at Temple university. I love to garden and thought that this might be a good mid-life career switch once both kids are in school full-time.

Miki, I know how easy it is to reward our weight loss with over eating...I do it all the time...a little bite of chocolate that turns into a big bar.

Cyan, I think you should invite the new guy to lunch or drinks it is too hard at the movies to really talk to someone.

Newie, take it one day at a time. Sounds like the first grade experience was well... quite an experience!

I would also like to have everyones home address so I can send out photo Christmas cards.

I am so tired and will start to munch if I don't eat to bed soon.

Hi, ladies--had a busy day yesterday with hubby--helped him with cover letters, job searching online, he made some follow-up calls. Less busy today, but still calls to make, things to search out. I will do lots of work in the house today. We're taking it one day at a time--only way possible. I go through different feelings at different times--up, down, hopeful, worried, tired, sad, peaceful--ate 5 malted milk balls and some cheese puffs yesterday--but overall I am eating less than ever--not hungry lots of the time. I didn't walk yesterday because I was helping hubby get into a home routine. Today I will get out. I think teaching first grade will be a good experience once I get organized. When I was there Monday, three teachers at the school who were also my children's former teachers AND my customers at the teacher supply store where I worked approached me, welcomed me, and offered me any help I might need. How wonderful to have such caring people around me! Well, got to go. Have to make school lunches. More later.

Another crazy day here at the office...more projects upon more projects...but I shouldnt complain and I am grateful to have a job in the career I studied....web business is a dog eat dog kinda world...I am sure Newie, your husband could relate.
You have to create amazing designs on the spot and have it done yesterday:tired: very tiring...thankgoodness we are nearing the weekend

Hey..guess where my boss is taking us for christmas dinner...YUP A sushi restaurant...I've got him hooked...and all our employees like sushi...so yippeeeeeeee:T :cp: We are going to Takara's or sushi kaoboi

Gosh, I have been craving smoked salmon again..I might have to go buy some tonight...geesh...whats up with me lately...I was talking on the phone yesterday and I was thinking smooooooked sallllllmon...so I might just have to go get some.

I havent been exercising often enough..I need to have a word with myself and get serious about this...way to lenient..oh great..I have Dr phil's ad here to my left of my monitor telling me to get real...I guess its a sign...

Hey Miki...I'm in for the christmas challenge...shoot

ok gotta go

Cyan

Hi ladies,

Well, today I started out great..I had oatmeal for breakfast, brought our cat buttercup in for Jake's show and tell (they needed to bring in a furry friend for F week) Jake was the only kid that brought in a live animal instead of a stuffed one.

Well, it was raining most of the day and I started getting into a depressed mood so I went shopping and instead of being motivated to clean up the house and get ready for Jimmy's party on Sunday, I ate a big lunch and just wasted the day! So of course, I got more upset and ate chocolate. Now I decided to have a glass of wine and decide how I am going to get back on track with my eating and exercise.

Every morning I start out with great intentions and then ....I blow it by 3p.m. I know I need a rountine but I am feeling too stressed to take the time to start one. OK I'll stop complaining.

I hope every one is up for that Christmas challenge and we can motivate each other.

By the way I read last night's post and I must have been very tired ..." when I said eat to bed" I guess you all knew what I meant.

Well, today was fine with the exercise but not quite as good as yesterday in the eating department. I am going to try to put everything in Fitday shortly to see how many calories I ate. None of it was bad for me, it was just several different little things all day. Walked 30 min on AirWalker again then did my tape tonite. I think my goal for Christmas is going to be to lose 10 lbs by then. That should not be unreasonable for 2 months. Of course on the other hand, it would also be pretty amazing since I havent lost that much in the last 6 months.:dizzy: Anyone else have goals set? What are you going to do?

Debee, I laughed at what you said last nite but I understood it.:lol: I think it's cool you're taking a landscaping class. Wish you lived closer to me! I could use help in that department.

Newie, must feel good to know there are people at work willing to help out and make you feel at home. I know you'll do great once you get things organized. Did you get a walk in today?

Cyan, good for you getting your boss hooked on something healthy! Will make it easier for you to stay on track at the work Christmas party. If I'm not mistaken, I hear your stationery bike calling, Missy.;) :D

I hope Taiwan, Lisa, and Reina are having a good week. ( as well as the rest of you of course:) ) The week is halfway gone which means it's almost Friday again....I know Cyan is getting excited.:D

Talk to ya'll again soon...

Miki

Hi ladies,

Well I got a call from the producer of the tv show tonight and they are going to use me and the house! Now I am really stressed out...they are going to film between the 11/10 and the 14th. That means I need to clean up 10 years of dirt around the house, 10 pounds of fat off my body and 10 years of wrinkles off my face...oh well I have always said I work best under deadline!

So here's my plan for the next 14 days...

1. Lose ten pounds.....Eat a healthy breakfast, drink plenty of water, have a good healthy lunch , the same one every day maybe my turkey in a pita, no snacks, no chocolate, and every sunny day take a walk. Hopefully I can try to lose 5 pounds a week.

2. Clean the house...doing some heavy scrubbing will help me burn calories and if I just clean up the cllutter in the play room, and kids rooms, I will be in pretty good shape. I will just hid the rest of the stuff under the beds.

3. Lose the wrinkles...well I guess I hope they just will have good lightging and make-up.

I'll keep you updated...

Hi, everyone--I'm up early today--I am not sleeping well--sometimes I have trouble going to sleep and always wake up early. I've been down the last couple of days about hubby's situation. I know it's really too soon to get like that, and we are so blessed in so many ways. I guess I get scared. It reminds me of my growing up years. My dad was an alcoholic and drank up much of the money. He also had trouble keeping a job till he got in with the post office. My mom used to share her money woes with me (not too good to do with a kid, I think), so I've always worried about stuff like that--feeling safe and secure has always been a big deal with me. I'm also a person who likes to be in control--makes me feel safe. And this situation is one where I have very little control. I can help hubby--with resumes, cover letters (that's where my English major helps out), other types of support--but I can't make people return his follow-up calls or contact him after he has sent his stuff out. I feel like I mostly just have to wait, and I'm not very good at that. I know I feel better when I am busy at my own stuff--last night I spent a couple of hours finishing the sponge painting on Veronica's bedroom--very pretty--and believe me, there is plenty for me to do, especially with carpeting coming next Wednesday and the first grade job beginning in 4 weeks. I think I need to get busy and stop worrying. I also think I need to put my faith into better action. I just wish it were all over and worked out RIGHT NOW!!! Anyway, thanks for listening, everybody; I'll try not to burden everyone with all this too much.

I did get my walk in yesterday--it felt wonderful. I have also lost one more pound. I'm now at 155 1/2 pounds. I ate some more cheese puffs--a few with lunch, and some more in the middle of the night. I hope I don't have to keep them out of the house. The last thing I need to do is to stress eat. I think that will be my Christmas goal--to avoid stress eating on a daily basis and to keep up my exercise routine. Anything more concrete is just too much for me right now.

Debee, let us all know when your house will be on TV. I'll try to get to mother-in-law's to see it. Cyan, your love of fish reminded me that the other night I ate baked salmon for dinner--first time I had salmon other than out of a can. It tasted good, but I wouldn't want it regularly. I skipped the skin--yuck! Miki, thanks for your encouragement--I feel I'll do well too. I've already got some things in mind that I want to do, especially routinewise.

Well, I've got to go--almost time to get the first girl up to shower. Today at school is Halloween party. Tomorrow there is no school--some kind of teacher conference. Both girls have parties to go to--Veronica, her first boy-girl party with most of her classmates at one boy's house--from 7-10 p.m., and Kathleen, a sleep-over, trick or treat, out for pizza event sponsored by mom of one of her friends who just lost her grandfather. I am so grateful they have something fun to do. More later.

So last night I had my smoked salmon on cream cheese on a bagel topped with onions...oooooooooooo sooooooo gooooooood

infact ...I am having it again for lunch:^:

Hey Miki..you are right...I hear my bike calling...its getting mad and loud so I best go use it tonight...thanks for reminding me.

well I am drawing a blank so I will post back later or tomorrow and let you know how i am doing with the exercising.

later

Cyan

Hi ladies,

Today was a pretty good day...Jake had a playdate and while he was with his friend I was able to clean up the dining room. I also did 5 loads of wash and cleaned some of the wood work.

I skipped breakfast and for lunch took the kids to KFC. I had a flour torilla with chicken, lettuce and tomato and only ate half. I was really good this afternoon and did not have my afternoon chocolate fix. Dinner tonight is filet mignon with onion, peppers and rice. I am just going to have a small portion.

Hopefully, tonight I can try to clean up the play room although I love watching the show extreme makeover...it's about real people who get made over...everything, liposuction, nosejobs, breast implants, its on ABC at 8p.m.

Miki, I agree with you it helps to get on fitday and record what you eat every day.

Cyan, is there a Costco near you ? They have great salmon there.

Newie, just take it one day at a time. Don't worry things will work out.

Hello everyone! :)

Debee, I am so excited about the show! Be sure to let us know all the details as soon as you find out everything. I love that extreme makeover show also. I keep trying to get someone to write and tell them I need help!:lol: I could keep them busy for sure.

Cyan, can you believe I've never tried smoked salmon?? Maybe I'll try it soon and love it as much as hummus.:D

Newie, you're never a burden to us. Vent all you want--that's what we're here for. And we'll be here too when you come to tell us about that great new job dh is going to get soon.:)

I ate too much tonite and didnt exercise but I havent missed a day in a long time and just felt like a break. I'll be back to it tomorrow, I promise.

Bye for now..

Miki

Hi, everyone--I am feeling pretty good this morning. Yesterday was a good food and exercise day--also better mentally. Thanks for all your support, especially your comments, Debee and Miki.

I completely finished Veronica's room with the sponge painting. It is so beautiful--I wish I could send a picture! We live in an old cape cod style house, and the area is upstairs. The ceilings are slanted with a short, flat area in the middle. The background is white--dawning the actual color--white with a rose cast. Over it I sponged with pink and blue. Where wall meets ceiling, I painted a 6-inch blue border which I sponged with stars of three different sizes in three different colors--pink from the wall, a darker pink, and a darker blue. The ceilings are still white. Carpet is coming Wednesday. It is pink. I've done three more rooms upstairs in similar ways over the past three years--Kathleen's room is sponged pink, mint green, and white--with flowers in her mint green border and darker pink accents on border. (I still have to finish the accents--rather tedious handpainting.) The bath is white sponged in pink with a white vinyl floor and picket fence/flower border around top. The final room (my craft/sewing room) isn't sponged (some calmness is needed somewhere) but painted a paler pink with pink border sponged with hearts of various sizes and coordinating pinks--hearts are my favorite symbols in the world. It's definitely a girls' place. Even my husband is impressed with the look of the area, though he always worried when I started on a room because I was never quite sure how it would turn out in the end.

Last night we signed the final papers on our home equity line of credit. Today our mortgage will be paid off, and money to pay for the carpet has been released. That is one burden off my heart--someday, when hubby has a new job and is well established in it, we will tell our banker friend what we went through as this arrangement was finalized. At least now there will be only one bill each month, which I know we can manage. Thank You, Lord. Another blessing is this: As I mentioned yesterday, I grew up with money always being a tight thing. My husband always had plenty of money, so never felt the need to watch the pennies. In our 14 years of marriage, that difference has always been an issue, though we never spent uncontrollably or excessively. I always had trouble getting him to wait to buy things, and somehow it was easier for me to be more like him than to fight him. He told me last night that he understands now what being frugal is about--that I have taught him that. I am so glad. I have expressed to him my determination never to be in debt again, and he agrees with me. I don't think his cooperation will be too difficult to get in the future.

Yesterday hubby got a call from one of the companies he followed up on. Unfortunately he was taking his mother to dr. so he wasn't home, but man gave me instructions when to call back today. He also wrote a letter to another company he is interested in working for--it was a beautiful letter, must have been divinely inspired. Today he wants to write one to another company and follow up on another application. I feel blessed by how he is handling each day--very different than he has ever been in this situation--I am praying so much--I think my prayers are being answered. Also, yesterday I found a job loss support site with a forum where there was a thread for spouses of unemployed people. It was very helpful, and I will return to it regularly. Also, I was drawn to a spiritual book my mother-in-law gave me several years ago that I could not ever get interested in before. I had met the author, the late Catholic Archbishop Cardinal Joseph Bernadine of Chicago, so I knew whose ideas I would be reading. When I started this book yesterday, I was amazed at how suddenly easy it was for me to read. The title was The Gift of Peace, and it was about how to deal with the adversity and pain of life through a Catholic Christian perspective. It was his spiritual memoir of the last three years of his life. If any of you heard in the papers, he was falsely accused of sexual abuse and then contracted terminal pancreatic cancer, from which he died in November 1996. He was someone who touched me during his life, and I was deeply touched and inspired by his book. By the way, I finished it early this morning. It gave me peace. The ideas and faith in that book will be very helpful to me for the rest of my life.

Well, I think it's time for me to go. I have to finish the rest of my on-line stuff. We try not to tie up the phone lines during the day. Have a happy Halloween, everyone. I'll be in touch soon.

Hey Ladies...its friiiiiiiiiiiiiday...need I say more?

I might be going to a halloween party if I feel up to it...but tomorrow I am going to a thai restaurant and a movie with the architect guy I told you about earlier....I also invited our mutual friend too...like I said earlier, I am in no rush.

Hey Debbie...Yes there is a costco...several..and you read my mind...I am off to Costco this weekend to get me some smoked salmon in industrial quantities....:lol:

Hey Miki you must must try smoked salmon...try it on a bagel with light cream cheese , onions and capers...devine!! Or my favorite...you start off with a lettuce leaf, you put a thinly sliced salmon layer, you add feta cheese and stuffed olives and then you roll it up all into a bite size...maybe two bite sizes ....I tell you...it is sooooooooooo good...you will love it. They make great hoeur-d'oeuvres for any ocaision and they are atkins and soutbeach diet friendly. I use light feta cheese


It looks like this saturday in particular is gonna filled with restaurant meals...in the morning I am going to a breakfast brunch...then I am going to a friend's house to paint her face for halloween...its been a tradition of ours for the last three years...she is this really cool older lady and I think the world of her and her husband...who is in his late 60's and has survived lung cancer and a heart attack...he just keeps on ticking. Then I will go to dinner and a movie with Anita and Richard...geez...what a day.

Well looks like I am off to start my day at work. Have a great day and weekend everyone

Cyan

Hello Ladies!

I just couldn't stay away!!! I so miss you all and I was given one of the biggest incentives this month, and now the questions is, Can I DO IT???????????????

Congrats to you all who are losing and breaking that plateau!! How incredible is that feeling??????

Lisa, congrats on the new job! I hope all goes well with the hernia situation!

Well, I have to tell someone, I have received confirmation that I will be celebrating Xmas this year with my half-brother and his family. I haven't seen him since I was 6 years old.... I am so excited that I immediately have given myself a goal of, I know, I have heard myself say this before, but I have to give myself something to go on.
I want to lost 10 - 15lbs by Xmas! I need to feel good about myself when I see him. I don't want to be self-conscious about myself...So after this big candy day, I am starting... I don't know what, I think I will start with a cleansing and then work from there. I always need to jumpstart my body with a shock treatment. Low calorie diet then change as needed.

I want to thank you all for being there when I am down. You don't know how much that means to me. I have had some massive ups & downs this year, and you all stood by me.

Wish me luck, I really want this to be a great christmas, so I am going to get tough on myself to make sure it is...

Have a great Halloween Ladies.....

Reina

Reina!!! So glad you're back with us!!:cp: I meant to send you an e-card to let you know how much we miss you but as usual my good intentions didnt get carried thru...sorry,... but I really have thought of you often. :) We will work on this together...my goal also is to lose at least 10 lbs by Christmas. That is not an unreasonable goal so let's do it!! :) How cool that you'll be seeing your brother again after so long!

Newie, sounds like things are looking up already. I'm really glad to hear it. Just keep your faith...things are going to work out fine, I just know it. Your house sounds beautiful.

Cyan, extra busy weekend for you. Have fun and fill us in on all the details. Sounds like lots of fun.

Exercised plenty today but still a little high on calories. I gotta get rid of this Halloween candy! ( and Not by eating it):lol:

Well, gotta run. Both kids are gone tonite so hubby and I have the house to ourselves. Hooray!;)

Have a great weekend, all.

MIKI

ahh its monday again! I had a nice weekend...saturday was busy and the dinner movie thing with my new friend went very well...the more time I spend with him, the more I like him...so thats coming along nicely.

I am doing well in the food department not counting saturday...I went to a breakfast buffet and then a thai dinner...no lunch! thank goodness for that.

Hey Reina...glad you are back with us and ready to shed some pounds! Its great having a goal to work towards. I am planning on losing 10 pounds by christmas...as usual...I am still plugging away at it.

Newie..hope things are going well with the job search.

Debbie...how are you doing? Let us know

Lisa...how are you doing...the pregnancy?

Miki..did you enjoy having the house to yourself?

hey Taiwan..hope things are going well for you too.

Well its monday so I best get back to work

later

Cyan

Hi ladies,

Reina, I am so glad you are back! You were one of the main reasons I got motivated last year to lose weight. We can both help each other get motivated. remeber everytime you want a bite of something off your diet just think of all of us sitting on your shoulder. Take a moment and try to think of what each of us would say to you....you might be able to find the willpower to just put it down.

Cyan, sounds like this guy make just be a keeper! What are you going to do for a follow-up? Why don't you invite him to your house for dinner? Maybe an indoor winter picnic...some wine, a fire and of course sushi!

Newie, it sounds like tolove to decoate as much as I do! I am always redoing something in the house. My last big project was our art deco movie themed basement.

Lisa, how all is well and you don't have morning sickness.

Miki, did you get rid of the candy...my kids counted theirs last night..Jimmy got 162 pieces and Jake 135. I have almost three pieces of candy in my house!!!

Something's burning....post later

Hi,

Ok I'm back...

Some pasta just burned.

I just read my previous post..I really need to proofread before submitting or at least not try to type and do ten other things at the same time!


Halloween was great we went trick or treating with the neighbors and then went to a friends house for more trick and treating...one house in her neighborhood rents a cotton candy machine and gives it out as a treat...too much candy and wine.

Sunday was a beautiful day and I did lawn work and cleaned the shed. Jimmy's boys night out party was at 5 p.m. and I had a group of his friends over to watch ghostbusters and have pizza. Afterwards we had a mini firework display.

Hi, all--I'm doing ok, I guess. I have a lot of ups and downs in the day, so I guess it depends on when someone asks me how I'm doing. Not much news on hubby's job search--a promising lead turned out not to be what he had hoped. There is another person he followed up with who he hopes will call him. I try not to get too excited--don't want to be disappointed. If the call comes, it will be this week, the person told him. I'll let you all know. I'm subbing tomorrow for the third grade--my Kathleen's class. It is her 9th birthday tomorrow. We were planning to take cupcakes as treats. This way I'll get to see the whole experience. I've finished all the painting on the upstairs rooms, thank God--I was really sick of painting stripes and flower centers with a Crayola watercolor brush. Kathleen's room really looks good, though, as does the rest of the space upstairs. Tomorrow when I am at school, hubby will take up the area rugs we've had on the bare underlayment for about a year and remove any small pieces of furniture. He then will vacuum the whole upstairs. Wednesday the carpet will be here. I walked my laps today--rain and all. Halloween candy has been calling me a bit, but I am only answering once in a while--like maybe one or two pieces a day. I recall that in past years, that would make me gain, and I don't want to mess up my success this year. Later this week I may meet my mother--she lives about 25 miles from me, and I don't see her as often as I'd like--it's an hour drive each way--at a nice thrift store she frequents. I told her I had lost some weight and that a lot of my clothes are too big. I can't afford to buy new clothes now, so I figured I might be able get a few secondhand things. When I lost weight the first time 18 years ago, that's what I did because I needed a whole new wardrobe. I bought all these great designer jeans for next to nothing. It will be good to go out. I need to get out of the house. She also invited me to help her with her craft booth at a craft fair she entered on the 15th. I'm looking forward to it.

Anyway, there's not really much else to report. I've got to check on the oven. I've got a chocolate cake and cupcakes in there. More soon.

winter is around the corner...today I saw my first flakes of the season albeit a little frozen they were...more along the lines of freezing rain...hohum...I guess its time to get into the spirit of christmas and winter.

I have been doing great with the eating...but I must say, not so great with the exercising, I am in this rut and I cant get motivated...ugh! I will try and try again...hopefully tonight by bike will call me...let's hope.

Debee..yeah this guy has promise but I wont be inviting anybody home because my mother has alzheimers and its too uncomfortable to have new people over. But, he does have a great loft house...its right out of the pages of a magazine...very beautiful.

Hey Newie...have fun shoping and how cool...you gotta get new stuff cause yours are too big...what an acomplishment...keep going!

well I best get going on my work...later ladies

Cyan

Hello everyone

Cyan, happy to hear the movie and dinner with your new friend went well. I hope it turns out to be something more than just friends in the future.;) I cant believe you've already seen snow! It has been 90 degrees again here the last 2 afternoons. Definitely not winter weather yet for us.

Newie, sounds like even with your ups and downs, things are going well for you so far. It's cool that you are going to be subbing for your daughter and able to spend the day with her on her birthday. And buying new clothes, even if they're just new to you, will surely lift your spirits. I love to find second-hand bargains.

Debee, I like your posts just the way they are...no need to proofread. I always get a good laugh plus it's nice to know I'm not the only one who is a little ditzy at times:dizzy: :lol: (we're both blondes, ya know..lol) Still candy here too but so far so good...I've had a piece or two occasionally but am doing fairly well from overdoing it.

Still exercising every day so far and my eating has improved this week. Hopefully I'll keep it up.

Reina, Lisa, and Taiwan...hope you ladies are doing well. Come post when you can...we miss ya!

Miki

its hump day! My boss is taking all his employees to the movies today ...after work...to go see Matrix Revolutions! He wants to treat us geek techies for a job well done...so who am I to disagree...to the movies we shall go.

well I gotta get going on the job so talk to you later

cyan

Hi, all--carpet installers are upstairs--have been pounding and slamming for three hours. What I've seen is very pretty. I had a difficult morning today--with all that is going on with hubby, the telephone was dead this morning. It's fixed now (how would I be doing this if it wasn't?), but not fixed till 3:00 this afternoon. Yesterday was pretty interesting in the third grade. Kids don't listen like I remember. My voice was hoarse at the end of the day. Still I was glad to be there. Got to go--carpet men will want money soon. Bye for now.

Well, I just finished a major upper body workout with weights with hubby and sis. I am going to be sooo sore tomorrow!! I can already tell. Think I'm going to get a hot bath soon to hopefully get a headstart on easing the pain.:lol: Eating today wasnt the best but not the worst either.

Newie, hope your carpet looks wonderful when they're all finished with it. Sorry about your voice but at least you got to spend the day with your daughter. :)

Cyan, have fun at the movies. Sounds like you have a cool boss.

Gotta run for now.

Miki

Hi, everyone--food not as good as it should have been yesterday. It wasn't quantity, but quality of what I ate--several poor choices. I am feeling tremendous anxiety about hubby's situation. It's hard with the ups and downs involved in the whole job search thing--prospects that don't work out, wondering if "this one" will be it, hoping he makes the right decisions. I just want it to be resolved, but I know it isn't as I would have it; I'm not in charge. God is, and I'm not very patient. I'm trying very hard to let go and trust that it all will work out, but it's not easy for me. Hubby has an interview this morning at a shop doing something quite different (but in the same general industry) than what he has been doing. I've been praying that it works out in the way that is the right way. One thing that I have realized is that I don't know what the right thing is. I guess that's a major step in letting go.

This morning I will take the kids to school, go to Mass, take my walk, work in the house, pick the kids up at 11:30 (parent-teacher conferences this afternoon), eat lunch, go to my conferences at 2:10 and 2:20, then finish my day. I guess I will pray all day during all this. I'll try to be accepting, no matter what happens.

Well, got to go. Hubby asked me to make him some oatmeal. Talk to you all later.

Well I saw matrix revolutions...its was great! I also had sushi in line waiting to get it to the movies..yum yum but I shared with the boss and my coworkers.

Tonight I exercise...I will do the bike for 20 minutes and then some weights.

Miki...man you are the new exercise queen...how cool...let us know if your arms are tucked under your arms like a t-rex cause they hurt :lol:

Hey Newie...how does the carpet look...good? what color?


well I gotta get to work later

Cyan

Hi,

Just a quick note before making dinner. Had a busy day...took my cat buttercup to get declawed (he ruined our leather couches in the family room and my husband said declaw or else), got my highlights done and went shopping for an outfit to wear on TV. I hate to shop under pressure...you know when you have to buy something for a wedding or other occasion..I love to shop (I do it almost every day but when I am forced to buy something of course I can not find anything!

The producer of the show called and said that I can not wear black, white, red, jeans, or other light colors, no sweaters. They suggest a light blue or green...it shows best on tv I guess.

I cleaned up most of the downstairs of the house...now I just need to clean the kids rooms. Most of the stuff I probably should not do until Monday because it will be a mess in a few days anyway.

Foodwise I was pretty good, I skipped breakfast and ended up not having lunch until 2 p.m so I had chicken, salad and a few pieces of halloween candy. It is raining so I might just have some soup tonight.

Miki, you are so motivated and I think it is great that your husband and sis work out together...too bad we don't live closer or I would join you.

cyan, your boss does sound great. I went to the movies saturday night and saw Sylvia (about sylvia plath, the poet) it was very depressing.

Newie, I am also doing some home renovations..we are doing some work on our kitchen..a new range, dishwasher, sink, knobs for the cabinets and window seat for breakfast area.

Well, I need to cook dinner and help Jimmy with his homework.

Well,just a quick note to say that we are home. We got back on Wed. Drove 12hours on Wed. It was tiring. Now I need to get back to doing something now. My parents put the treadmill downstairs, so I will use that for at least 15min. today and am thinking of going out and buying pilates. Does anyone use them?

Well, going to have my bagel:)

Hello everyone,

I promised Cyan that I would post today...
Cyan, it was great talking to you again today. I miss our daily conversations....

Well, since you are all my intervention, I guess I have to come clean and admit the obvious... I have gained back 5lbs and not an ounce less....

Yeah, I am thoroughly disguested with myself, but I want to make this work. I am seeing my faults and losing myself in my work, so obviously eating happens only when I can get it in, and it is never good... But now, going forward I will think before I eat.
I am cleaning out my fridge and and getting rid of all the crap out of there.

I swear, I don't even think about what I am eating until I finished it and licking my fingers clean! YUK!!!!!
I am a sick puppy but I will change... I really want to feel good on Xmas so I am going to start working out this week. even if it is tapes in my room. I haven't gotten back to curves, and I hope to do that this weekend, but we will see.

Thank you all for your kind words ALWAYS.... You never give up on me and you are always willing to get me through this, so I will make you all proud and get back on track!

I hope you all have a great weekend and I will touch base on Monday and let you know how well I did this weekend. Being Accountable will be my priority this week.

Debee, I am using your weekly goals again.
1. Drink water vs-soda
2. thinking before I eat
3. Work out to a video at least 3 times this week
4. Go throw out that box of Fannie May Candy that is on my dresser in my room( I KNOW, it should have never been there)
5. BELIEVE IN MYSELF AGAIN!!!

Later ladies.....

Oh I so love fridays....its my Mom's bday today, so I will take her to a restaurant tomorrow...that should be fun.

I had sushi and sashimi for lunch...oh that was so good...I thought it was a better choice than the spaghetti I had made...last night's dinner.

Hey Reina...welcome back....and you will lose those 5 pounds and then more...one pound at a time...stay strong and motivated and yes...the key to success is believing in yourself and loving and respecting yourself above all...you must believe you can do this at the core of your being...that my friend is the key.

well it 2pm and I dont feel like working much so I will good off a bit before I go back to the grind.

Welcome back Taiwan....how are you doing...details please

Lisa..hope you are doing well..let us know how the baby is doing.

Miki, my new exercise queen...you rawk...such an inspiration to me...my motto...if Miki can do it...I can do it.

Hey Debs...what channel will you be on..I will see if I can get it up here...or tape it and send it to me...lol

hey Newie...hang in there, something will turn up for your Husband...he just started the search so be patient a little while longer...things will work itself out....just breathe and cherish the time you have with him now before he goes back to work...stay positive

ok Ladies...bring on the weekend

Cyan

Well thats all folks

Hi ya'll

Believe it or not, I wasnt even sore from my workout! That was really strange because I was dreading it. Did that same workout again today so we'll see how it turns out again. Ate too much tonite...Chinese Buffet!! I gotta stay away from those!

Going to my youngest sister's baby shower tomorrow in Shreveport, Louisiana. My cutie niece, Kaylen will have a little brother in a couple of weeks. :) Cant wait.

Sorry I dont have time to post individually but I did read all of yours. Let's all try to stay positive and get on track! I'm ok with the exercise but the eating has got to improve. Let's do it ladies!!! ok???????????

Miki

Hi, ladies--sorry I haven't posted in a few days, but we've had a couple of hard ones here.

Cyan--the carpet is a soft pink--really pretty--works perfectly with every paint I used in the walls. We're going to do the base moldings ourselves--cheaper. We bought about 1/3 of what we needed, will start to measure, stain, and install this weekend.

Also, thanks for your encouragement about my hubby. We've been very down this week because we haven't even been able to find many leads in his field. It has been really depressing that way. We'd also been trying to decide whether he should stick to the graphic arts field in his search for a while, or broaden it out to do any kind of work that matched other skills he has from his previous work in manufacturing (he worked for General Mills for 20 years making cereal before he got into graphic arts). Yesterday he spoke to a very kind woman at an employment agency which deals in graphic arts, and she told him that right now the market in graphic arts pre-press is very poor. We considered that information a sign/answer to prayer to us about what direction he should go. He is still going to apply for jobs in his field (in fact he interviewed for a job as an entry level engraving press operator on Thursday--will call Tuesday to see what happened), but he is not going to limit himself to graphic arts. That opened up a variety of fields to him, from manufacturing to driving to warehouse work to whatever he thinks he can do. That made us feel much more hopeful. Hubby was more upbeat and energetic right from the moment we decided--has all kinds of search plans for this week. We also decided that I would definitely go back to work full time after my commitment to the sub assignment I have is over, which will be next June. I am going to apply to that school for a permanent position first, and then go looking for other teaching or other types of positions after that if there is nothing at that school. I still feel a bit worried and frightened, but I am much more hopeful than before.

My food hasn't been the greatest lately. When I am upset, I don't think too much about my choices. I tend to eat the simplest thing to pick up, though I have not been eating large quantities of anything. I have not weighed myself, so I don't know if I've done any damage that way. I did not walk at all this week except Monday--subbed on Tuesday, went to church on Wednesday and Thursday, and didn't go anywhere on Friday. Now I have a slight cold, so I'm not sure if I will go out this weekend. I am due to sub on Tuesday, so I don't want to have laryngitis or anything. Starting today, I will be more careful about my food choices. I certainly don't want to undo any of my success of the summer. I will also keep busy in the house, so I don't think about my problems. I have a lot of planning to do before I start my first grade assignment, so I need to focus on that as well.

Reina--don't give up on yourself during this difficult time you are having. We all go through rough spots, both in life and in our own development as people--I can certainly attest to that!! We're not always going to do the right thing or the best thing, and sometimes the struggle to get through each day is tremendous--I can attest to that as well!! But keep starting over each day--keep recommitting yourself one day at a time--don't give up! (Perhaps I should take my own advice in my own life situation.)

Miki--keep up the good exercise work--I wish I had your energy.

Lisa--how are you feeling these days--taking care of yourself, I hope?

Debee--I love making home pretty--I will enjoy finishing my girls' area by getting the molding done and bringing their things up from the basement (the cleaning of the basement I won't enjoy, but the neatness at the end of the process will be worth it). Next project will be related to crafting--a quilt for my Kathleen's bed which has been cut out for over a year--plus other undone things--that way I can make progress without spending money.

Taiwan--glad to hear you arrived home safely--you go, girl, with the exercise plans--my hubby walks on a treadmill too.

Finally--thanks, ladies, for being here. You are all a wonderful, sunny part to my day--you especially bring me back to the positive when I am not feeling at all that way on my own. I love you all. Bye for now.

Ah I dont like Mondays..tell me why...doodoodada...anyway,

My weekend was good...a little cold but good none the less...I took my Mom out for her birthday, she got herself new shoes and winter boots for the year...I then took her out to a chinese buffet...it was a nice day. And I didnt stuff myself at the buffet either which was nice.

I installed my winter tires on the silverbeega this sunday...and stored away my all seasons with the mags. I cleaned the house, cooked ...lets just say it was busy busy busy.

I havent done any intentional exercising...so soo sooooo bad...but my eating has been good and I did do hard labor cleaning out my side yard and prep work for tire storage...but I must get on the bike tonight....yeesh...its been some slump I've been in.

well I gotta get back to work...hope everyone had a great weekend

later
Cyan

Hi, all--not too much happening here--trying to do better with my food choices--some success--gained one pound back--probably those carbs I ate last week. I haven't been walking--pretty cold outside--also change in routine with subbing--I leave at 7:15 on days I work (today I have 7th grade--older daughter's class)--also I've had a bit of a cold. Finally, I am just not motivated--don't know what has happened. I feel down at times about hubby--he assures me he will get a job of some kind, but I just wish it had already happened. Yesterday I cleaned house while hubby was out looking for work--washed two floors and did a lot of floor dusting. I crocheted a lot too--it makes me feel better when I am down--Sunday I had some time to myself in the house--hubby and kids went to grandma's to watch NASCAR race on cable. I watched two old Whoopi Goldberg movies on TV--"The Long Walk Home" and "Sister Act". It was a nice escape--from the family and the problems.

Please forgive my blues--this is just the third job hunt we've been through since my hubby graduated from graphic arts school in 1997 and the 4th since his General Mills plant closed in 1995. I'm just so tired of it. I'm tired of the rollercoaster and uncertainty. I know I'll hang in there, but I'm just so tired of it all.

Well, I have to get going--need to print some resumes for hubby's job hunt today and to shower for school. More soon.

Well this morning I had to hoof it to the dealers to pick up snow blades for my silverbeega...I met a nice portuguese piece department guy and we chatted for awhile...he's married so it was benign and pleasant but none the less nice. So I got my winter blades and he gave me a littel discount..which is always nice. He then arranged for a ride back to work with the courtesy van they have for their customers...which happened to be another portuguese guy so he dropped me off first which was very kind of him because I was already stressing that I was late for work. So I got to work at 9.30 am instead of the usual 9.00 am.

My arms are a little sore from the yard cleaning. I also cleaned my silverwear last night...so my skin on my hands are a little dry. yeesh!

Girls...I need motivation...I havent done any intentional exercise for a long time... I think I may need a serious cyber kick! Help.

Newie...hang in there...it takes time sometimes to find a job...it hasnt been too long...things will come around...just stay positive
envision good luck coming to you and your family...envision your husband in a job interview of his choice and that it is going well. I send you a big hug and lots of good energy.

Well I am already late with my work...so I best get back to it

Cyan

Well, now that Josiah is napping, I can write. I had a note written last night and the little booger turned the computer off. This will be quick as I promised Joshua to take him to the library.

I guess Lisa and I are in the same boat--yup, due in July 2004. Was still hoping to lose some weight before this happened. I have gained 14 bls since being in the states--AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!

I have started watching what I eat as in nutritional value and Mon. did 20min on the treadmill, will try to do it everyday this week. Gotta get a habit. Don't want to go overboard with this baby. Am looking into eating things for overweight pregnant moms. Back at 198 was not my ideal goal!!!!! And being uninsured while in the states too isn't the greatest feeling, but such is life:-) we are happy. Luke says if it's anothe boys he gives up:p Joshua says he wants a girl, so maybe he has extra sense or something. Hoping for our Hannah Joy--cause we don't have any other boys names!!!!
Haven't had any symptoms other than being tired (was this way with Joshua too).

Ok,so much for short note:-)

Hello everybody!

Taiwan, congratulations!:D Your news surprised me. I bet Lisa will be thrilled to hear it too. Glad I had a hysterectomy...seems to be some 'pregnancy' virus running thru this thread.:lol:

Newie, sorry you're so down. But dont get discouraged...in reality, your hubby really has only been out of work for a short time. I'm sure something will come up for him in the near future. Besides, remember God's timing is better than ours even when it doesnt seem that way. :) And look back to what perfect timing it was when you got the sub job...exactly when you needed it.

Cyan, wish I could help you with the exercise, but I have to admit, I've gotten in a rut for the past 2 or 3 days myself. I havent exercised plus my eating has been terrible. I dont know what's gotten into me. I'm disgusted with myself for getting off track. I guess it started with the baby shower Saturday...cake, punch, finger foods, chip and dip...all my downfalls. Anyway, that was no excuse to just keep it up. I've got to get back into my healthy groove SOON!! I just cant undo all the good I"ve done!

Well, gotta run. I want to watch "8 Simple Rules" tonite.

Miki

For some reason...this week is just draggin by very slowly...I wish it was friday ..I know I shouldnt be wishing away my days...but I really dont feel like being at work this week...ugh.

Hey Miki...sorry to hear that you are in an exercise slump...I am feeling so lazy that I am not even motivated to lift my foot to give you a cyberkick...to much effort...:rolleyes:

Congrats Taiwan...You have 3 kids plus one on the way? Am I correct? Man...just the thought of being pregnant once in my life is too scary...I dont think I could handle giving birth..way too scary...I would like to adopt..but for now...my furchildren keep me very happy. Let us know how you are doing.


I will pledge to myself that I will cycle tonight for at least 20 minutes....I will fing the motivation to get on that darn bike...yes I will.

Ok..back to work

later

Cyan

Actually Cyan, i have 2 boys and we work with teens--aka fosterparents basically. We also have 2 teens girls at home as well. Feeling fine so far.

Didn't exercise yesterday. Kept saying later and never got around to it. Not sure if I will tonight or not though.

Can't write individual posts today. Sorry girls.

Well, the filming was yesterday and it was fun, I'll let you all know when it is on...sometime this spring.

I am ready to really get motivated and make some changes in personal development before the new year:)

reina I am going back to my lists ...writing down my weekly goals here really helped me to be accountable. You guys helped me to make the food :devil: go away.

Sorry, something happened to the computer and I submitted before I was finished typing. :dizzy:

Deana, I am so happy for you! I hope it is a girl.

Miki, I agree with you I hope that the baby virus isn't going around. Miss Miki I need to have you on my shoulder again. I am healthy food shopping on Thursday and I am going to take you along...we can buy the hummus but I am counting on you to give me the willpower to not put the potato chips in the cart.

Cyan, remember you are the exercise queen and our leader. Last year we all had a healthy lifestyle started let's keep it up!

Reina, I am with you! I am going to post my weight and my goals for the next week every friday. Let's keep each other accountable and make sure we do at least a few things on the list.

Newie, :) things will get better! Life is like a river, sometimes there are rapids,sometimes it drys up and sometimes it runs smoothly:lol: I just kind of made it up and it doesn't make much sense but my mom would always said things like that and it made me feel better!


Well, here is my list of what I plan to do by next friday 11/21.

1. This week I will get rid of all remaining Halloween candy.
2. I will go food shopping and get healthy snacks
3. I will pre-plan my dinners so I will have healthy options picked out
4. I will eat oatmeal for breakfast
5. I will start having my turkey pita for lunch every day
6. I will just eat out twice this wek and try to limit portion sizes
7. I will only make two types of xmas cokies with the kids
8. I will make an non-edible gingerbread house
9. I will wear my skinny pants to try to keep me honest
10. I will not eat after 8p.m.

Hopefully I will be able to do at least 8 things last week on the list.

Hi,

I have a few minute of down time...Just finished helping jimmy with homework and I am giving myself a half hour to relax.

I was trying to remeber why my weight loss worked and I think it had alot to do with taking time for yourself. The more I took time to do little things for myself the more in control I felt withmy life. I then felt I could control more of my eating. I think most of the time I eat just because I am either bored, angry, stressed or tired. I know that I realy don't need to consume the large amount of junk food that I do or the sweets but I do then I feel guilty then I set myself to fail again because I expect too much too fast. i guess when I was not depraving myself of the extra pampering I did not need to reward myself with food.

so I decided that next time I am

*bored instead of eating i will clean up the house, work on a scrapbook project, write or go on the internet.

*angry instead of eating I will write down why i am angry, what is causing me to be angry and if I can change it

*tired instead of eating I will go to bed or take a nap

*stressed I will do yoga, breathe deep, take a walk, take a bath, read to my children

Hopefully this will help. I am so ready to get motivated again and really make my goal of 20 pounds by January 1. Even if i just lose 10 I will still be happy. Since it is getting colder outside I probably won't be walking as much so I think I will dust off the exercise tapes and do them with the kids or get up a half hour earlier in the morning and do them. I also have to stop comparing myself to all the skinny moms i know. I need to lose th weight because it will make me feel healthy.

sorry I am rrambling but I am in a very motivated mood and I don't want to lose it.

Well its thursday...I must admit, this week has been slow slow slow...I am so looking forward to the weekend ... I need to veg and of course drive my car:lol:

Hey Debee...man I hope some of your determination and motivation rub off on me...its so good to see you in fighting form...if you can do it...I can do it. thanks for pulling us together with your newfound determination.

I will make my own list too

1. no eating after 8pm
2. cut back on portion size
3. no mindless snacking at work.
4. EXERCISE at least 3 times per week until I am back to my old routine..I dont know what happened but I sure fell off the wagon here:?:
5. cut back on deserts and chocolate.

Well thats my top five for the next month...once I have mastered these..on to the next five.

Taiwan...are you hoping this baby will be a girl? Let me know.

Miki how are you doing with the exercising? And your eating? details please:)

Hey Newie...how are you doing today? how is the hubby? Let us know.

Reina...I hope you are doing well..let us know how you are doing when you get the chance.

Lisa...same goes for you..how is your pregnancy? Scool and work ...man how do you do it...and you have kids and a husband...geez...kudos to you for holding it together.

well ladies...as usual, I am at work, thank goodness its almost lunch...I am in the mood for a tuna sandwich so I will probably go get one...yum yum with a side salad.

I bid everyone a great day and lets get back in the losing spirit:lol:

Cyan

Ok,
looks like everyone is getting that motivation pumping..

Well, you would all be proud... I started Atkins today.. I never ever wanted to do it, because I am such a carb addict, that I said "I CAN'T DO IT" .
Well as Flav, pointed out the other night, it's not that I can, it is that I won't because I won't give up those favs of mine. Well, I started today, so I am sure I will be *****y for the first few days but I hope to get by, my boss has lost some weight on it and only has been on for a couple of weeks... He said it was hard, but worth it, when you get on that scale. So I have my big jug of water next to me and I had a wierd lunch.

This diet goes totally against what I have believed is right for so long. Lisa, how did you adjust to that...
I had a double cheeseburger with bacon today, without the bread of course, but YUK.... all that meat made me more sick looking at it than anything else.

I don't know, we will see....

Deb, good to see your lists again. I glad to see everyone's...

Good luck and I will check in later.

Hi, everyone--sorry I haven't posted the last few days, but I've been busy with each day and really couldn't motivate myself to write. Thank you so much, everyone, for your encouragement. It really helped me. Actually I've been feeling much better the last couple of days--I think it is good when hubby goes out in his job search. I really hate it when it's just the two of us in the house with that shadow hanging over us. I enjoyed teaching the 7th grade on Tuesday. I think I know why I quit my job in September. I think I am supposed to get back into teaching. I really like this elementary school level. When I was in training in the 70's, I wanted to teach 6th, 7th, or 8th grade, but I never got the chance because the job offer I received (and there weren't many offers out there back then, so I took what I could get) was for 9th grade. The paperwork for an English teacher on the high school level was so incredible that after 11 years I just couldn't take it anymore. Anyway, we'll see how things work out for me. I have come to a place of "one day at a time".

I think hubby's job search is progressing pretty well, though we don't have anything definite yet. One prospect that he will follow up on as far as it goes is a manufacturing job for a company that makes parts for Ford. A huge industrial park is opening very close to where we live that will be supporting a Ford assembly plant near here. (Most Ford Tauruses and Mercury Sables are assembled at a plant about 3 miles from my house.) Hubby has the 20 years of manufacturing experience with General Mills behind him. He filled out preliminary applications Tuesday and was invited back for 2-3 hours of testing a week from today. Hopefully he will make that cut and be invited for an interview. Again, we're taking things "one day at a time". I don't know how I got to this place of peace from where I was the other day--maybe my prayers and those of others around me are being answered. Hubby gets down, especially when he is home, not out looking, but I'm trying to keep him busy doing house projects he hasn't had time for before--things that will both accomplish something important in the house and help him feel productive as a human being. We're due to get our first unemployment check this week. Hopefully it will arrive on time.

I went back on Atkins induction today. I've been having more and more problems with the carbs, and yesterday I ate a whole bunch of cheese puffs--two bowls full--about 4 cups!! They made me feel gross, and I think I've gained two pounds. My body just can't deal with the carbs. Once I start eating them, I begin craving them, and then I start gaining again. I know it's that whole insulin situation in the body. Reina, I know how you feel about all the meat. I'm not much of a meat person myself, and I get sick from eating eggs. I do a lot of cheese, cottage cheese, and peanut butter. I don't do Atkins to the letter, even induction, because it is too restrictive for me, but I do cut out most flour, starchy veggies, and as much sugar as possible. For me, the carbs are the problem. Already today, after one day my craving for sweets has reduced. I don't lose as fast as some people do on Atkins, but without it I don't lose at all. Two weeks is all I can take of the Induction stage, but that's enough to jumpstart the weight loss thing for me. Also, Reina, if you start to feel constipated, get some Metamucil (I know it's not the best, but it works.) The meat can do it to you. And wrap meat or cheese in lettuce instead of bread for a different kind of sandwich.

I'm not walking--I don't know why I stopped--but I'm going to get the food back on track first. I haven't forgotten that jacket at my mother-in-law's house that I want to fit into. And I found somewhere to wear it. Being the first grade teacher means I will have to participate in the school Christmas program. I really need to look decent for it--sometime in the first half of December.

Congratulations, Taiwan, on your new baby--that's wonderful. Also, there better not be a pregnancy virus on this computer. At 47, a new baby is not the thing for me. Also, Debee--congrats on the filming of the TV show. Let us know when it will air. Also, Miki and Cyan, thanks for everything you say--I love reading what you write.

Well, hubby wants this computer, and I have a couple more e-mails to look at. I will get back to you all soon. Bye for now.

hey Girls

Last night was so windy that the roof siding on the building next to mine ripped off last night...so this morning...a chunk of roof siding was dangling precariously over my precious silverbeega:eek: I got dressed so fast and with my dad holding open the entrance door...I got the car out before it fell....phew! But the winds were so strong that when I opened my car door to get it...the door escaped from my hands and hit against the side of my house...therefore I have tiney chips where the door hit the wall right on the lip of the door...oooooo I am soooooooo mad...I cant even think...it didnt go down to the bear metal but the primer is exposed so now tomorrow I have to use touch up paint on my chips but its never the same..I know I will be able to see it...but its a metal door and winter is coming and I dont want it to rust...argh... I should of bought door protectors...guess I will be making a trip to canadian tire tomorrow and get me some door guard protectors...yeesh:mad: :bomb: :yikes: :fr:

well other than that...its friday and I must resist the temptation to run home and hap hazzardly blob some touch up paint on my door lip and making it worse..I have to do it when i am calm...grrrrrrrrrrrrr.

Ok I gotta go..have a good weekend
later

Cyan

Hi everyone,

Cyan, wait before you paint! I always try to touch something up and then make it worse. It was so windy here in philly last night that one neighbor across the street lost 15 trees, another lost about 25...tv news camera were on our street all day filming the mess.

Reina and newie fill me in on what you eat on a typical adkins day...I think I will give it a try. i know carbs are my downfall and I know lots of people who did lose weight on adkins. It seems that there are more products on the market too.

Well, today on my weigh-in I am down to 131.6. I am still up 5 pounds from my low last year of 127 and 20 pounds away from my ulimate goal of 110. However, if I could lose 10 pounds by xmas I would be so happy.

Foodwise today I had coffee for breakfast with whole milk, lunch was a turkey pita and I have been drinking green tea. Tonight for dinner I made roast chicken, carrots and red potatos I will only have a salad with a few pieces of chicken. It is boy scout bingo night so I'll be out of the house and hopefully will not get the chance to eat tonight.

saturday Jimmy school is having a family hike day so that will be our exercise and lawn work. The other exercise I have been doing is getting christmas decorations ready. I really want to enjoy december this year and want the presents wrapped, cards sent and the house decorated by dec. 1 so far I am 95% done with shopping, and since we put up three trees, I put up the retro silver one in the basement yesterday. we plan to get the
real one the sunday after thanksgiving and the fake one in the dining room I want done by dec. 1

Well, have to run..have a great weekend everyone!

Hello :)

Just got home from Josh's basketball game. He's a starter this year on the Junior team, and we won.:D I think Josh made about 8 pts.

Aside from walking around the mall all day yesterday while my car was in the shop, I have had no exercise this week.:o Monday and today eating was fine, but yesterday shopping with my sis while waiting for my car also meant eating out at Applebee's. We both had the grilled steak covered in melted monterey jack cheese and onions and peppers, a side of garlic mashed potatoes and a slice of garlic cheese bread. We also shared a dessert....a blonde brownie covered with walnuts and vanilla ice cream with a maple sauce drizzled over the whole thing.:s: YUMMY!!

Hopefully this week off was the break I needed and I'll be psyched up again to get back into some heavy duty exercise starting Monday if not before.

My youngest sis, Joy (kaylen's mom) has a doctors appointment Tues afternoon to see if she's far enough along that they are going to induce labor. She was dilated to 2 today. Cant wait to see the new baby. :)

Reina, it's good to see you in here again! Miss you when you arent around. I hope you do well on Atkins. I just havent been able to get to the point I am willing to restrict myself that way. And exactly how do you eat a cheeseburger out of a bun?:lol: I've got to get back to keeping a big jug of water with me too. I know that's a huge factor in how I lost before, but I just cant seem to make myself do it.

Newie, I am so glad you are feeling better! Keeping my fingers crossed for the manufacturing job....well, actually keeping my fingers crossed for the RIGHT job to come along SOON, whether it's that one or not. Dont want to settle for less than the BEST one for your hubby! Try to get back into your walking...I know I'm one to talk since I'm not doing great either:^: BUT you know what a stress reliever it is. :)

Cyan, Wow what a close call for your beloved car! That is sickening about the paint but thank goodness it wasnt worse. Try not to let it ruin your favorite time of the week...the WEEKEND!;)

Debee, you amaze me. 95% finished with Christmas?? I havent even STARTED!!:eek: Did you stock up with those healthy foods yet? Did you buy hummus but NOT chips??:nono: :lol: ;)

Taiwan and Lisa....got ideas on baby names yet?? Maybe we can all help...lol Hope you're both feeling well. Post when you can.

Well, this is like the longest post ever so I guess I should end. Everyone have a wonderful weekend!

Miki