Sugar Shakers - Sugar Busters Weekly Support Board 3/19-3/25

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

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

MONDAY-MOTIVIATIONAL MONDAY
TUESDAY-TUESDAYS TIP
WEDNESDAY-WEIGH-IN WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY-THURSDAY RECIPE DAY & CHAT AT 9:30PM EST
FRIDAY-FRIDAY FITNESS

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


http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/showthread.php?threadid=2389[/url


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


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


http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/showthread.php?threadid=2379[/url

We have FOUR INFORMATIVE BOARDS!!!! Please take a few minutes to visit them! New information is continually being posted, so please make sure you visit them often:

THE RECOMMENDED READING BOARD:


http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/showthread.php?threadid=2342

THE TOOLS & TIPS BOARD:


http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/showthread.php?threadid=2344

THE FOOD INFORMATION BOARD:


http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/showthread.php?threadid=2365[/url

MOTIVATIONAL & INSPIRING THOUGHTS BOARD


http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/showthread.php?threadid=2359

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


http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/showthread.php?threadid=3224

WANT TO POST YOUR WEEKLY WEIGHT LOSS INFO and BE COUNTED in our weekly totals of pounds lost?? Go to the WEEKLY WEIGH IN BOARD BELOW to post your stats!


http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/showthread.php?threadid=3225


NEWBIES! (aka new members) If you would like to REPLY to any of our threads, please hit NEW REPLY NOT NEW THREAD then type your message in and hit SUBMIT REPLY. Also, when the board gets to the 2nd & 3rd page, sometimes it may take a little longer for your message to appear, you can refresh your browser, or wait, but it will show up! If you need to edit your reply, just click on edit reply located in the body of your post and make changes as you need to, then hit SUBMIT NOW.


WELCOME! :D

Good Monday Morning Everyone:wave:

Just a quick post to start this thread off this morning. I will be backon later after I get the kids off to school and my walking in. Have the whole morning to devote to the board!!!:)

I decided to try the NEW POLLING FEATURE available to us. Hope you don't mind that I didn't pass it through for everyone to vote on, just looked at it this morning and took the initiative. BUT, I would love suggestions for future polls-I think the info on the will be interesting to read and learn from. If you have any ideas, please e-mail me with them. Also, please make sure you TAKE THE POLL!!! I will post the results of the poll each week when we start the new board on Mondays.

It's MOTIVATIONAL MONDAY so if you have any great words, quotes or stories of inspiration that will help us on this journey, please try to post them today. Here is my contribution, and it really hits home for me to read this, I hope you all think so too.



Many men fail because they quit too soon. They lose faith when the signs are against them. They do not have the courage to hold on, to keep fighting in spite of that which seems insurmountable. If more of us would strike out and attempt the "impossible," we very soon would find the truth of that old saying that nothing is impossible... abolish fear and you can accomplish anything you wish.


~ Dr. C. E. Welch ~

Anyhow, I will be on later like I said and will reply to all the posts.

I hope you ALL HAVE A WONDERFUL SB WEEK!!!!!:)


Debbie
194/TBA/129
Miami, FL

Hi,

I am a new member here, but have been doing the SB thing for a few months. Here in Louisiana, we all know about SB!

I have had a hard time lately staying on the plan, and I don't quite know why. I lost 15 pounds, which is about enough for me. Now I am eating things like fried chicken, fried catfish, and other Louisiana delicacies which are not on the plan. Part of it is because I have been eating out a lot lately.

I am determined this week to do the REAL DEAL, and stay on my plan. I will also watch those legal carbos, I think that is one of my problems. If it's legal, I sometimes eat too much.

I'll be lurking and reading, hoping for inspiration! I don't even remember how I found this site, but it's a great one! Now off to teach those second graders to read!!!!

MargaretA

MARGARETA - Welcome!!! Just remember that everyday is a new day!! You probably have reached your goal weight and figure it is ok...once in a while it is....I bet it is isn't hard to slip ip in LA. You will get back on track...don't give up. Congrats on the 15lb lose.

DEBELLI - I love the new poll!! It should be interesting to see how it turns out each week.

HELLO EVERYONE ELSE - I have still be neglecting the board lately with so much stuff going on!!! UGHHH!! Will get back on track soon.

I have also been neglecting SB a bit. Gained 3 pounds over the weekend!! I am determined not to give up.

Happy Monday Everyone:)

I love Mondays because it means a fresh start and and new beginning. Anything can be accomplished if you begin and start.

Here's my motivational saying for the day:

" If you have no confidence in yourself, you are twice defeated in the race of life. With confidence you have won even before you have started."
--- Marcus Garvey

Remember that we all have the power within to make major changes in our lives. It is up to us to have the confidence to do it.

See you later:)

Anna
222/139/140

Morning all!

I'm looking forward to a good week! I know that if you believe in yourself that you will not fail.

One of the things I have learned since July is that I am stronger than I thought. Especially during Lent when eating off program is not an option for me. When I am tempted, I have begun repeating to myself "I am stronger than.. ." (fill in with whatever is tempting me). It's a small truth, but a powerful one. I am stronger than a cookie, or a piece of bread, or whatever is providing the moment's temptation. I may not be stronger than all food, but I am more powerful than that one thing--and when I recognize that truth the desire for it leaves me.

MargaretA--Welcome! You will find a lot of support here. It sounds like you have reached your goal and need to find out how to maintain your weight loss. I think the sample food plans in the SB book are designed more for maintenance than weight loss. You might try looking at that for your guidance.

Deb--I like the poll! It's fun to see a snapshot of where we all are with the program.

Have a good day everyone! It is a bright new week!

Susan
300/25bv6/150

Wow, I totally went off the program. It was that darn PMS chocolate thing. I thought what the heck and now I fine myself 4 lbs. heavier and craving the "stuff" again.

Sunday I did well as far as sticking to low g.i. foods but I ate alot of it. No problem as I know I'm getting back on track.

I'm taking Magnesium (and Calcium) as it's suppose to help with PMS craving. Also, picked up some Chomium Picolinate. Anyone else taking supplements? Love to hear what and why!

Welcome...to all the new people!

Great going... to all you who lost & maintained

Hang in there...to all who gained. You know what to do!

My personal Motivational Thought:

Learn from your "mis" takes and dust yourself off and move forward...

WOW! What a fabulous way to start a Monday, and a new week!:wave:

Got my walk in this morning, 4.5 miles in 1 hour 1 min. 20 seconds, sweating like a piglet, with the dark clouds hanging over me and a big threat of rain-not back for 2 minutes and it started to rain!!!! I consider myself LUCKY!

To back track a bit...yesterday we went to the Italian Renissance Festival at Charles Deering's estate that was built 1914-1916 called VISCAYA, it's really pretty there. The weather didn't cooperate, and as much as we desperately need the rains here in S. FLA., I sure didn't want them to come yesterday, but who am I that Mother Nature would listen to me?? Despite the rains, we still had a nice time. They play a human chess game which was interesting to see-everyone dressed in the period-some very voluptious woman there, and they make sure you know it! You think they'd pop out of those dresses!

Well, ALL day long, I was making potty visits, like the flood gates had just opened up! I knew last night when I jumped on the scale that I would have a decent WI this morning, and I was right! Back to my low of 134!!!!!:spin: I wish I could show you my weight graph on the WC program how I went up and down, like a yo-yo-but patience FINALLY paid off! Now, I just pray I stay at this weight or go down, at least until Thursday!!! Cross your fingers for me!!!!:^:

THEN, yesterday, I didn't have any of my walking bras (ones that have gotten a little big for me), so I had to wear one of my regular ones instead. Didn't have anothe clean one, so pulled out an old one, smaller-IT FIT!!! I am know in a 36D, compared to a 42DD before-Eli says I have nothing but skin left-YEAH, RIGHT!

The other day at the HFS I saw these thin crackers called FINN CRISPS, so I bought them, I LOVE THEM! Just wanted to pass that little info onto you all.

Forgot I told my sister I'd go with her to JCPenneys this morning, so have to run and get ready to go with her. She needs to get some things for my nieces, so I told her I'd help her out to get my extra discount. I'll have to finnish this up when I return...

HOPE, thanks, we did have a nice time, despite the rains. Hope you have a good week with the little ones!!

QUILTER, thanks for mentioning VIV-she e-mailed me as well:) I'm looking forward to getting to meet her in 2 weeks, even if only for a little while. Thanks for the French toast tip-will have to try it with that bread one day. Right now, I'm loving it with PB&J. The carob chips probably have barley malt. Go into the regular baking section and look for them bagged and see what exactly the nutritional value is and the ingredients. You can ask someone in the bulk food section what brand it is that they are getting in, they SHOULD know. I have tried them in the past, and actually like them, but again, not sure that they are legal, you need to check.

CHERI, did you get your walk in yesterday morning on such a pretty sounding day?? I think I should send you and Kim one of those pictures-on-a-stick things, like a paint stirrer, with my 8x10 glossy cut out and stuck to it!:lol: Do you realize you are just 4lbs from another great goal! Under 275-isn't that great!!!!

ROSALIE, sounds like spring is slowly coming to Canada! The Swedish Cabbage sounds interesting, please let us know how it turns out! Glad to hear your bedroom is done, I'm sure it will be nice to get things back into their proper place. You keep on going Marie, you'll get to goal, it may take time, but oh what satisfaction you'll have and how great you'll feel! I give you a lot of credit for sticking to it, many would of given up long ago.

KAREN, glad to hear that you found those clothes fitting you again, that must of made you feel really good;) I can totally relate with the chocolate, that's why I stayed away from it. Whereas others opt for it early on in their WOE, I chose to wait a year to partake. I honestly thought I wouldn't be able to stop, and the first day, it was hard, just tasting that again after sooo long, but now, I have 1/2 of what I am allowed, and it's really good, but doesn't have the effect on me it use to have. I think you know yourself well enough that if keeping it in the house isn't good for you-ditch it, or give it to someone.

IAMAP, I don't know if anyone in your area has the agave nectar. I personally wouldn't use the fructose because of the corn. There are some recipes you can use honey in, that when broken down, you will get 3grams or less per serving, not sure how they would work out using sugar, but agave is the best. I don't use artificial sweeteners, so I can't be of any help on that end. I guess you could use some fruit juice in concentrate, but no idea how that would work out for you, or on the plan. That's great with the clothes, take out old, put in some new!!!!

STAR, hope you had a nice hike yesterday.

GATOR, yard work does count, it's not all that easy-I'd rather sweat walking than do that-so yes, it does count! I highly doubt if Eli will get to any shows, I can never get him out of a casino long enough. He has no idea what Starbucks will have planned for them, so until he knows, he just speculates. Only thing for sure he better remember to do is go to Trader Joes!!!!

VR, glad to see you back on the board. I think it's hard to go off and on and off and on any WOE. The key is sticking to it and getting the support you need (here, of course). You can make as many excuses as you want, but that won't get you where you want to be. You know you can do it, just get back into the same mind frame you were in when you started with our board way back then. You were so upbeat, added so much to the boards and were very involved, and you did well from what I can remember-you sort of said this in your post as well. Try to get back into that frame of mind and you'll be back on track. Just let us know how we can help!!

BIGO, got the pics from Kim, the one of you and your statue to too funny. Can't wait for her to get them scanned and on the board!!

FILLISE, boy, it seems I'm congratulating you daily, you're definitely on a roll as the scale inches down-way to go! I see a major goal being hit soon for you!! I really love your outlook, reading your words is like a breath of fresh air!!! Glad you like the polling feature as well.

ANNETTE, ouch, the computer crashed!:eek: I sure know what that is like, twice over. Glad you were able to get it back up and running. Glad you liked the hummus recipe, easy, wasn't it?? All those crackers, KAVALI, RYCRISP, etc ARE high on the GI, but you need to pair it up with something low GI, like hummus, and it makes it a moderate GI food.

BEACH, glad to hear it's nice in your area and that you got in your walk. I believe it about the walking-I think I'll be walking the rest of my life, G-D willing! Way to go on maintaining, I'll hopefully be asking for pointers when I get there! Thanks for posting a motivational thought-I love reading them all.

OVERCOME, glad to hear the shower was a success!! Just remember, if you are up on WIW, it's probably water weight, so don't let that get you down if that happens.

BUNNY, glad to see you back on the board. When you go to reply, the smilies link will be to the left, just like the old board, just click on it and it will show you the smilies. There are lots of new ones and some old ones, and some of the old ones have different symbols now that I am trying to get use to. I would tell you to definitely start journaling so you can actually see what areas you need help in, it does make a difference when you write EVERYTHING down!

ONEMORETIME, WELCOME TO OUR BOARD How long did it take you to lose this 45lbs?? Are you doing anything different since you got on this stall?? Are you sure you are eating enough?? Try to let us know what you think so we can try to help you figure this puzzle out. It can be MANY things that is causing this, but without more information, giving feedback would be like pulling at straws. We'd love to help you out in any way!!!!

MARGARET, WELCOME TO THE BOARD!! Being that you are at goal, possibly your mind set is that you achieved what you wanted and now you can eat anything? Just my armchair theory. I think once you reach goal, it's a good idea to go down another 5lbs, which is a nice number to have to play around with. I think once you reach goal, it's a good idea to add some non-SB legal items slowly back into your daily WOE, like fruits and veggies and see how you do with them. If they effect you badly, take them back out-sorta like what you do with a baby when they first start eating baby food. Some things, I can't imagine why you'd want to eat again, like white rice, white pasta, white bread-BUT, if you are at a restaurant and that's all they have, once isn't going to kill you. Everything in moderation is the key!!! Going out to restaurants too many times can be a killer-it's nice not to have to cook, but it does make following this WOE harder. We'll be happy to support you in any way! Glad to have you join us.

DIDJA, hope you get back on track, 3lbs may be just water weight, or just a fluctuation from something, but you don't want it to go back up:nono: Glad you like the polling feature, it will be interesting to see how it turns out the end of the week.

JAN, you're probably needing to eat more protein-what do you think? Usually when you get cravings like that you MAY need more protein, otherwise, you may be like me, where I need to eat more carbs to be satisfied, but more LEGAL CARBS!!! I'm sure the gain is from water weight-I can gave 5lbs in one week. Just continue to stay on plan, and the scale will go down-I can tell you that from much experience!

VIV, oh VIV, where are you?!?:confused: Just get on the board and at least post a hello-we won't get down on you if you fuss-what are friends for anyhow???

Well, my day is about over, have to start getting ready to go get Michael from school-where did the day go???? I'll check in later tonight-our UK friends are coming for one last visit sometime this evening-they leave for Orlando tomorrow. Sharon is coming over tonight as well-seems like a full house!! Eli works late, so as soon as the computer is free-I'll check in.

Please remember, tomorrow is TUESDAY TIPS so if you have any good tips that you'd like to share with the board, please try to post them tomorrow!!

Have a great day!

Debbie
194/134/129
Miami, FL

EVENING EVERYBUDDY :D

Ok, WHERE IS EVERYONE?

I'm busy cooking a big pot of beef soup. Just using beef, snow peas, zucchini, cabbage, onion and a few turnips.
Sound good to me...I'll let you know if it turns out ok.

Not much new here..still raining (which is good) and I think everyone on the West Coast of FLA visited my hospital this weekend. Really busy day and tomorrow will be just as bad!

By all means, rent Dr T and the Women...it's really good.
Meet the Parents was just ok in my opinion. Wouldn't want to see it again.

I'll check in later

BOB

Hi chickees!

I'm glad to see everyone so motivated and energetic here. I don't have time to catch up as I'm at work. Just checking in...I had a fit with half a bag of potato chips over two days and have decided to release potato chips from my way of eating (how's that for jargon). I'm working my way up to letting go of french fries and hash browns too...perhaps even this week.

Oh....Big Orange Babe asked:
SPARKLE: If you don't mind me asking, what other board do you post on?
Do you all have the same influx of tourists that we do here in FLA?

Weight Workshop (http://www.atforumz.com/forumdisplay.php?s=&forumid=58)

Well I started out posting here about a year ago but have been putting my energies in this smaller forum because my best friends run it and I would like to start my own forum in the next few years. But of course, as is natural when things are new, I am GIVING a lot of support, and am finding this well-established and close-knit community much better for GETTING support, which really helps me!

Tourism is our #2 industry (behind highway construction and ahead of military spending. ;) ) The local businesses have catered to Japanest tourists for years and still seem to have a hard time adapting even though the Asian economy went downhilll years ago. We have a lot of mainland and European visitors but I think that we, as a whole, could be more enthusiastic and innovative about attracting them. I think probably more people are moving to Florida than are moving to Hawaii. We do have lots of people moving in but even more are moving out due to better job opportunities on the mainland...especially young people.

*******

I'm always glad for Monday too because it's a chance to start anew. This week is going to be very important in terms of moving forward with my goals. I quit smoking for ONE DAY so far (yeah!) bought a racy sexy new bike yesterday (yeah!) and made an appointment with my OA sponsor to do some work on the 5th step (which involves going over all the sordid details of my past which led to the fat on my ***) which is a BIG DEAL for me because I've been stalling on it for over seven months now.

One thing that keeps me motivated: I started the practice a few months ago of forgiving myself nightly and in writing for all the things that I could have done better that day, then I let it go as best I can. This has really helped me because I have a lifelong habit of waking up in the morning feeling pretty good, and then as I slowly gain consciousness, I mentally go over all the things I have to be depressed about. It's like waking up feeling light and free and then putting on a suit of armor to wear all day. I'm changing those patterns.

Accentuate the positive.

Love,

Chris

Evening AGAIN :D

Can't get ANYTHING by that SUPER CHICK!
Yes, I know that turnips are a little high on the scale, but I knew that I couldn't put any potatoes in, and no macaroni, and no lima beans, so I settled for just a little bit of turnips.

CHRIS; One word will do it BRAVO GIRL!!!
I've often thought about going to OA, but haven't taken that first step as of yet. I know there is a reason why I buy EVERY DIET BOOK that hits the market, and I know there is a reason why AFTER GOING THROUGH THE PAIN OF STOMACH STAPLING I let myself gain all this weight!
I do know that a big part of my problem stems from my parents obsession to start my weight loss journey at the age of 8! What ever I did, it wasn't good enough. This has followed me for forty years, and I can still feel it inching up on my "bumper" every day!
You're to be admired for what you've accomplished....KEEP IT UP GIRL!!

Well, I'm off to lurk for a bit. New show on tonight at 9pm (est) about the first year lawyers. Looks like it might be good, so I'm going to check it out.

Later

BOB

I all!

Welcome MagaretA and OneMoreTime. You've come to the right place, you'll get lots of support and motivation here.

Didja: Don't worry about the 3 lbs. Just stay as determined as you are, stay OP and it'll happen.

Beach: You're right. Monday's are like new beginnings. I'm choosing today to renew my vow to walk 5-6 days a week. I love your motivational saying.

Susan: I think that with your determination you can suceed at anything you put your mind to. And with the help and support you'll get from us, you can't help but get there.

JanCan: Chocolate will tempt us every time. Just remember "JanCan" and you'll be back on top in no time.

Deb: I'm crossing my fingers! And I did get my walk in yesterday, it was so nice out. I like the "pic-on-a-stick" LOL. I could even put you up on my fridge and then everytime I go to open it I would see you :nono: I could really stay on track. You're right I can hardly wait to get past that next goal (269). I'm shooting for 10 pounds at a time.

BOB: You're soup sounds really good. I could adapt that to my WOE too (Veggie).

Chris: Congratulations on your decision to stop smoking. You're in my prayers.

You all are in my thoughts and prayers. Take care and have a great day!

Cheri
287/273.5/145

I too would love to know where everyone is today. Actually, the site has had a few error messages, which Suzanne IS aware of, so that may be the problem, or the excuse:s:

BIGO, sorry to put that little damper on the turnips-hey, at least I e-mailed you with the info and didn't put it on the board, BUT, since you already confessed...

SPARKLE, give those potato chips a rest girl! Just imagine what you are actually eating there. On SB you can have the Sweet Potato chips made by Terra, not the spiced ones though, and they are quite good, I think. You can try to make some yourself. You'll feel better once you get those high GI foods out of your system. I see in a mag that Honolulu is the #1 place to live this year-lucky you! Congrats on trying to quit smoking-I quit cold turkey 20 years ago.

CHERI, glad you got that walk in. :lol: That would be a hoot, having my picture on your fridge-with little devil horns on me, and then, for an added feature, a recording of my voice!!!!:eek:

Well, I'm off of here again-hope you all:?: have a great evening!

Debbie
194/134:D/129
Miami, FL

Hello all-
Quick post before King Of Queens. That show is so funny.

I'm going to show DH zuchini crust recipe. Sounds good!

We're invited to dinner at a friends house tomorrow. She's making spaghetti and meatballs. I am making my WW spaghetti here at home and bringing it to her house. This means I'll have to explain a bit. I haven't really talked about my new WOE with my friends. I don't want to be in the spotlight with this. Oh well. THere's no way I'm eating regular spaghetti after the weekend I had.

So far I've been on the treadmill both days this week. I look forward to it when I have a good book to read. Right now I'm reading John Grisham's latest...The Painted House. I love to read.

I have the munchies (TOM is coming). What should I munch on??? :(

Anyone who would like a handstamped card, email me your snail mail and I'll get one out to you this spring. Debbie, send me your addy and I'll try again!!!!

BBL

Ashley

Wowee! Thanks for the warm welcome, this is one enthusiastic group. I had a good day today, foodwise and otherwise. The kids at school are so happy that last week's statewide testing is over, so are the teachers.

DIDJAEVER: You're right..I'm getting a little lax as I near my goal weight. I need to watch that attitude.

FILLISE: Thanks for the info about the book being better for maintenance.

JANCAN: I hate to tell you how I lost my PMS craving for chocolate: I HAD A HYSTERECTOMY!!!!!!!

DEBBIE: Great ideas about losing an extra 5 to have some wiggle room.

I will figure out who is who and who does what as I go...I am thinking of a tip for tomorrow. I feel that whatever I post may very well be old news to this group, so bear with me! Nighty-night!!

Margaret

Originally posted by Debelli
SPARKLE, give those potato chips a rest girl! Just imagine what you are actually eating there.

You're telling me, sis! I thought I could handle them because my trigger foods are usually sweet. But they really did a number on me. So my point last time was, I at that moment decided not to eat them again....FOREVER (or Just For Today, whichever comes first). With the other foods I mentioned, I almost always (to be honest) have french fries or hash browns with a combo meal, which I eat far too many of. And after the potato chip incident, I realized that those fried starchy foods really do not add ANY enjoyment to my meals, or feeling of fullness, or anything. It's just habit. I don't think I will stop eating fast food all at once, but cutting 300 or more calories from an already questionable meal is going to make a big difference. Sheesh, I'm feeling pretty motivated already.

Okay, from this moment potato chips, french fries and hash browns are no longer a part of my way of eating or my way of life!

Was that so hard? (sweat sweat)

~Chris

OH MY GAWD! This soup is DYNOMITE
even with the turnips :lol:
I'll post the recipe and you can just leave out the turnips! Basically, you could put any and every legal veggie in this available. I started to use some kale and put it back...now I wish I had put it in. I will next time!

Off to watch the new show...

Later
BOB

What a day we had today! We busted ALL day. No lunch break, I was soooooo tired, I wanted to come home & take a nap. But a friend reminded me that if I found an excuse today not to walk, then I'd always look for excuses not to walk. So guess what I did? I got home at 3:45, changed out of my uniform & went walk for 55 min. Didn't measure the distance yet. Will have to do that tomorrow am. But as tired as I was, it made me feel better that I had not let myself down. I am sticking to my goals. Because I CAN DO IT & I'M WORTH IT! ALL YOU SB GALS, DO YOU HEAR THAT? YOU ARE WORTH IT. That's my motivational thought for today!

Debbie, I like the poll, neat idea. Will have to brain-storm to see if I can come up with idea to send ya. I see where you'll are finally getting some relief from the drought down there. Hope it helps. Human Chess game? Hummm, that must have been interesting to see. Back down to 134! CONGRADULATIONS!!

MargaretA, Welcome!!! Glad you found us & decided to join in. Hang in there. This battle of the bulge is not always easy, but this WOE is the best I think. What part of LA are you from? I'm down here about 25 miles SW of Lafayette. Now we're 3 of us regulars on this board.

beachfan, you're so right about Monday being a fresh start. You've always got some uplifting ideas, thanks!

JanCan, glad to hear that you're back on track. Welcome back. Now that you're back OP, you'll loose those 4 lbs you found while you were away!

BOB, Those that didn't visit your hospital this week came to mine...LOL
You thought you'd squeeze past Super Chick with those turnips, huh? LOL too funny.

SparkleScamp, Chris, you won't be sorry that you've decided to quit smoking. You are stronger than that cigarette. Remember that! There will soon be 18 years that I quit, also cold turkey like Debelli said. I have NEVER regreted it. You will feel better with the nicotine out of your system. Good idea to omit the fries & hash brown too...LOL

OVERCOME, glad to hear that your shower went ok. Sounds like you had lots of SB goodies, how wonderful, introducing those to your friends. Why not bring enough of the WW pasta for the others to try also? They may enjoy tasting it & finding out how good it is. Some of my co workers think I'm a health nut with this WOE. One of these is a diabetic & much over weight. I've tried to encourage her to try some of the things I bring for lunch, but she tooooo skeptical. But I'll keep trying! Maybe one day she'll try something that would be good for her.

VIV, miss you...hang in there girl, we're here for you when you need us. Keeping you & your dad in thoughts & prayers.

well, all you :angels: I will check in later. Keep up the good work.

Finally checking in. Hope you all had a super, terrific, happenin' kind of day. We had sunny skies, but brisk temps today. (I'm never going to be able to wear my cute new capri pants. Boo hoo!!!

MARGARETA---Hey, welcome to the board!!! Sounds like you know your way around SB pretty well if you’ve already lost 15 pounds. Way to go!!! I know you will get great support for the people on this board. They are all FANTASTIC!!! Sounds like you are living large with the fried stuff. But you are so smart to get back on track NOW instead of after gaining any. I can really relate with both things you said: Eating out isn’t easy and eating too many legal carbs. I have been known to go crazy while eating triscuits. I need a portion-control-policeman looking over my shoulder!!! Anyways, glad you are with us. Hope you stick around. We’re a barrel of laughs!

DEB---I too love the poll. And I haven’t said this yet . . . but I LOVE THE NEW BOARD. It’s great. It just took a while to get used to it. But you are right, there are a lot of things different and good about it. Hey, congrats on getting back to 134. That’s SUPER!!!! I’ll bet you’ll be there on Thursday. What a way to celebrate your anniversary!!!!! You are truly an inspiration--a model for the rest of us. Thanks for the email. I'm going to check now about the other threads thingy and will let you know how it works. Your day yesterday sounded great!!!! And to answer your question . . . no I didn't dress up like a wench. We were just wearing the normal 20th century fare. He told me that the year before he'd gone with a girl who had on some strange get-up that embarrassed him, so I'm happy that I went for my usual semi-normal stuff. Ha!!

DIDJA---Hey, girl, you’ll get back on track. And when you do we’ll all be here to give you lots of hugs. It’s easy to slip, I think most of us can relate. Just stay strong!!!

BEACH---Loved the Marcus Garvey quote and your thoughts were so inspirational for me. Thanks for sharing them.

ORANGE---I agree with you about meet the parents. It kind of ticked me off. I thought the girl was “out of it” and put him in some stupid situations. Your beef soup sounds wonderful. Wish me and Paully could rush over for a big bowl!!!! Is that the one and only SkeeterMan you posted??? What a handsome face!!! What do you think of Miss Maddie???

CHERI---You go girl on the weight loss. You are (as I used to say) kicking butt and takin’ names!!! I can’t wait for us to meet. We will definitely have to take Deb to TJs somehow. I could always call her from my cell when we are smack dab in the middle of the place. That would be too funny. I love the idea of her pic on the fridge.

OVERCOME---That’s so smart to take your own ww pasta. I hope it goes well for you. Yes, I’d love to have a hand-stamped card. I’m emailing you tonight as soon as I finish this post. By the way . . . remember my girlfriend with the breast cancer??? Well, she’s also a stamper. I talked with her yesterday and she’s feeling a bit blue (long story I’ll tell you later) but she wants to send out all these thank you notes to people who have done things for them over the past month. And OF COURSE, she cannot send out “store bought” cards. So guess who’s going over on Friday and spending the day and stamping. My first lesson. I’ll let you know how it goes. I thought of you when she mentioned needing help with them. I thought, Oh Ashley will be so proud of me!!!

Well, girls, sorry this is my first post of the day. It’s always a late day for me on Mondays as you know. I really don’t have any kind of a quote for motivational Monday. But I’ll tell you what’s been running through my head since I got off work. And I think it’s pretty appropriate. I tutor a guy who’s in his late 30’s and is a low-level reader. His life story is pretty harsh and he didn’t get many breaks in life. Now he’s been in a program with the Salvation Army to help him change his life around. He’s been a drug addict for many years of his life, since early teens. This coming June he’ll celebrate 3 years of sobriety. That’s been three very difficult years, but he is bound and determined to NEVER go back to that other way of living. I look at him and wish I had his courage and strength. He has a solid support system and is learning how to lead a life without drugs or dependency to alcohol. He inspires me to do the best job I can do in every aspect of my life, especially my eating/health regime. Hope this makes sense to you all and that I’m explaining it all correctly.

Gotta fly.
Take care, my friends.
Kim

DH is right now TALKING to his brother through Instant Messenger. Not typing, but actually talking. Has anybody done this kind of thing yet? I'm not sure how it's working, but I'm thinking it could be a wonderful addition to the SB group bonding. Imagine what it would be like if we could talk to each other. Oooo just think . . . Gabfest 101. Right here, every night.

Nite all!
Kim

Big Orange--Was that supposed to be you stirring your pot of soup? You definitely are not a witch! The soup sounds great.

I've had trouble with the munchies lately too, like some of you others. Don't know why. I usually can be pretty controlled. Don't have TOM to blame! :)

Annette--Congrats on Penn State's win over UNC. That was a great upset. If they keep it up, they will get the chance to upset Mich St. again for the Final Four.

Its been raining here all day and we really need it. Have you been getting any rain Beach Fan? It crimps the walking, but I went to the gym and lifted weights.

Gotta go. Just wanted to check in.

Here's a pix of me exercising. Walking.

Hey Gator:)

Yes it has rained all day! I was off today and had a ton of things to do but one of the most important items on my list was a walk:( I ended up doing a Kathy Smith tape. I don't enjoy it as much but I do sweat more!

I also was planning on grilling out chicken tenders. I ended up marinating them in Italian dressing most of the day and then broiling them. They were still good but not quite the same. We southerners really are spoiled when it comes to the weather. I like bright sunny hot days! It had been rainy and cold for several days now. Waiting on that spring time days of 75 degrees and then this summer of 100 :cool:

Big O: I agree you don't look like a witch to me...well maybe only when Tennessee plays Auburn but it was a cute witch. Your soup sounds good. I've been craving veggies lately. Had fresh asparagus for supper with my chicken and brown rice.

For the munchies...THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT...Eat what is legal until you are full. I would have days where I couldn't stop eating but I ALWAYS ate foods on the WOE. I also tried to eat more protein than carbs but sometimes I would eat WW bread. My favorite munchie snack is to cook cheese toast, have grapes or even eat lots of grilled chicken. Remember the key is to eat until you are FULL. If you don't fill up you WILL get tempted to eat potato chips, crackers and cookies.
See you later.

Anna

Just a quick post to say hi!

Welcome, MargaretA and Onemoretime :wave:. Glad to have you join us! This is the best group of people for support.

Beach - thanks for the advice about the munchies. I will truly keep that in my head for those tough times.

Checked out another natural foods store today. Deb, I picked up some almond butter and cashew butter. I tried the cashew - who-hoo that stuff is good :devil:. I think you talked about the Maranatha almond butter? I saw it there but it was about twice the price. Is it twice as good as the other brands? This was quite a large store. I wanted to buy natural nuts, but basically they had organic natural nuts and were priced out of this world:spin:. I'll keep looking around. I found another natural foods store that is an outlet, and I will have to check that one out. Found lots of legal breads though, so I stocked up for the freezer.

I'm in the process of reading a 3-part article on "The Insulin Threat" which appeared last year in Health magazine. I'll have some info to share with you from the article later this week.

Time to go - hope everyone had a good Monday and is pumped up for a great "on program" Tuesday!:angel:

Karen

Good evening all! It's a warm evening on the west side of the nation, we were up around 90 today. Summer is just on the other side of April...

Evenings and early mornings seem to be my time at the computer as the family is sleeping. I enjoy all of your motivations and thoughts. You are all inspiring me, my motivational thought for Monday (better late than never):

" Dreams are renewable.
No matter what our age or condition,
There are still untapped possibilities within us
And new beauty waiting to be born."

--- Dr. Dale Turner

Most of us dream of being healthy and in our own minds we have pictures of what we want to look like. One person described it as what was beneath the layers of fat. When I begin to lack motivation I remind myself of who I am inside and it drives me to show it to the world. A catapiller in it's cocun grows to became a beautiful butterfly.

Overcome: Your webpage is fun and I liked the use of cardinals rather than the old fashion bullets. As for the munchies, raw veggies seem to fill me up the best and give me the crunch I am often desiring.

Margareta and Onemoretime: Glad to have some fellow newbies on the board. This is my 2nd week with this group and I can't wait to get home at night to read the daily posts. The commararde and support is honest, fun and inspiring.

Debelli: The new poll is great! Congratulations on being so close to your goal and sticking whole heartly with the low glycemic way of eating.

Sparklescamp: Congratulations on giving up those greasy french fries and potato chips! Having 3 small children and a husband who love hamburgers and fries they seem to be in my home more than I like. Although I haven't cheated they still smell inviting. The last time we had burgers, they had french fries and I ate fresh green beans. My little ones thought it was fun that Mommy had green, crunch "french fries" too. Also, congratulations on the smoking cessation. It will be 4 years this June for me.

Good night all!

Lara

Good Monday-well its Tuesday -oh well! just me! Everyone had such great posts they take sooooo long to read! You all motivate me bunches -even all you newbies your helping this oldie alot! Your motivation and determination really is great! Keep it up!!
I am having one of the I feel fat days!? I think my hormones are messed up for one. I don't own a scale as you might know -thank god :D I had a pretty normal week end did have a few slip ups on both days excersised on Saturday none Sunday. I really don't know whats going on with me. I am hanging in there did great today stayed in my point range (ww thing) and did my excersise tape with weights that i kept pushing off all day too. I just feel like i have no oomph left! I really want to get to goal soooooo i guess i have to put up or shut up right?
Deb-My fingers are crossed but i know you'll stay there and go lower! I have been watching your progress too soooo i know your cycle! Mine is similar but its due to being a food addict! I could have been to goal months ago butttttt......oh well excuses don't help! Keep it up woman! I am proud-tell Eli to be quiet! This week end a friend said i had no butt left! gee thanks I think i have no waist and hubby says the top is going -what left but these big thighs!!!! lol :D
BOB-I have been making veggie soup every week latley i have a bowl before my meal sooo i feel fuller i just use chicken broth water bullion and tomato paste garlic-throw in all those "legal" veggies. I usually have it all week =yours sounded good too.
Quilter-great story its great that you have the patience to help this man! He is helping you too which is also great
MargaretA-welcome!!!!! keep up the good work! your worth it!!!
Sparkle-you sound like you have it going on girl!!! keep it up. my new motto is its all in our heads not what we put in our mouths!!!! thanks for the motivation
I could reply all night but gotta go to bed! Take care everyone! You all ROCK!!!!!!
Rhonda -Mass
201.2/14?/135

Eating breakfadt and about to hit the shower. Just wanted to check in and say HELLO!

Had a St. Pat's party :D here at the house on Sat night which consumed all day Fri and Sat with prep, Sun was for recovery. I managed to OK with satying OP, not as good as I usually do, but still not too bad. I did mangage to eat a chocolate mint brownie or two. :nono:

It's almost TOM and I am ready for it. TOM [assed me by last month and I feel like I'm carrying 5 extra pounds as a result. YUCK! :rolleyes: THough I did have one of those "skinny" days in my pants yesterday. The scales don't always tell the story.

I hope to post later on this week!

BOB - Survivor is a re-run this week isn't it? Booo! Do you watch The Practice? I think that you enjoy many of the same shows that I do.

BEACH - You are doing great at your goal!

NEWBIES - Welcome to all of you! It's good to have new people to keep the board going!

Peace,
Frog

I want to read the posts from yesterday and will try to respond to as many as I can.

H U R R A Y!! I can reply again! I'm so excited!

Now I forgot what I was going to say~

Rhonda: Yes, I do watch the Practice....I didn't know Survivor was a rerun...glad you told me..I'll check to make sure. It's on Wednesday for good now?
I love soup...any kind....any how....I LOVE SOUP
I agree on the little bowl before a meal too. It really helps.

Quilter: No, that isn't Skeeter, but it looks exactly like him. Is that really Maddie?
Tell Paul he's getting to hi-tech...I have the connection for the microphone, but don't have one..guess that would be a good investment

Oops...gotta go...hear the boss...more later...

BOB

GATOR: I forgot to tell you...I heard that there will be a new b'ball coach at Tn next year...but not Pitino..he will more than probably go to Louisville.

BEACH: I wish we did play Auburn in F'ball. we haven't done that in years. Maybe they will rotate the schedule soon.

Rhonda & FROG: SORRY I got your posts mixed up....

FROG: Yes, I watch the Practice. Survivor is just starting to get good..can't wait to see how long the two "down South" people stay on the show. I've seen a lot of promoting of Rodger lately..a dn the lady from Knoxville seems to be liked pretty well...WE'LL SEE!!

Rhonda: Sorry about the mix up...Yes...I love soup and agree with your suggestion to eat it before meals. It really does work.

Better get to work for real this time!~

Chris this attachment is for you and your chips!!!

BOB

Good Tuesday morning! The high is suppose to hit 94 today, yikes!

As it is Tip Tuesday, I've been trying to thing of how I could contribute. Then I went over to the sweettalk message board and found a recurring theme over there that doesn't seem to be here, how to cheat and get away with it.

I do not cheat, as adpoting a sugarless lifestyle is all or nothing for me. When I can't stand the urge for sweets any longer, I treat myself to sugar free ice cream or yogurt. I never buy a carton, but go down the the local ice cream shop and get the smallest bowl. This does the trick. This is my tip.

Have a great day! I have to get the kids and I ready for the day.

Lara

Hi Guys -
I am barely keeping my head above water. To the point where it's masking my excitement over our upcoming vacation....and I've been obsessing about the vacation for 6 months!

Thank you for all the nice wishes, it's great. I jut printed out this week's thread so far and decided to do that every day as I really haven't had time to read all the posts - quickly scanned them - I thought I would put the whole week together and then read them all onthe plane! If my kids are occupied, of course! That will be fun reading.

I don't know if I gave you the basics - oh, did I? Well, I think I did - anyway, I have been on the phone constantly to Calfornia - doctors, independent living facilities, the council on aging - Dad doesn't have email, which is so annoying - si I've been writing him lettters chock full of info Ive gotten - Thursday is the biopsy and altho we won't have results for a few days, I am freaking that we will get them mid-vacation and I will have a meltdown.

so here is my advice to ALL of us!
1. Buy long term health care insurance (no, I am not related to ANYONE i nthe insurance industry!)
2. Bump up those IRAs and 401Ks. No matter how much it hurts and no matter how schizo the stock market is~!

Does that count for a TUESDAY TIP??

SB wise I have been OP altho I answered the poll that I eat off program DAILY - because if I grab one piece of pasta from my kids - or 1` chip - or a taste of a cookie - that should count. So sorry, took the poll down......

But it looks like I may be up to a 10 lb loss - which brings me 1 lb away from my FLA goal - I don't know if I'll get to that goal, but close enough counts!

DEB - My manicure is at 4pm that Friday, March 30, in Boca. I hope you'll be up for the drive. I'll find out the name of the place. :)

Oh - does anyone get Parade Mag with their sunday paper? It did a thing on diets this weekend and again lumped SB in with Atkins. I'm going to email that reporter I've been in touch with in protest. And yes, her column is online, so if and when she does something on SB i'll lead you all to it.

OK, gotta do some more research for DAD.....I'll try to post again before we travel....I need a change of scenery sooooo badly....

And everyone, please think goooooooooood things on Thursday./

Thanks and LOTS of hugs to you all - I will get back to posting individually soon, I promise..

Viv
146/136?/135 (fla goal)/128
Simsbury, CT

GOOD TUESDAY MORNING EVERYONE!:wave:

What a GLORIUS day! Can you tell that I'm upbeat!?! Woke up this morning to lightening and thought my chances for a walk were shot, but after taking Michael to school the skies started to clear up quickly and I was able to get in my 4.5 miles-AND, I had the [b]fastest walk ever!!! I did the 4.5miles in 58 1/2 minutes! My best time before was 59 minutes 55 seconds-I beat it by almost 1 1/2 minutes!!!! WOOO HOOOO!!!!!!!! :spin: But boy, do I stink up a storm after a session like that!:^:

Also, down another 1/2 pound today! So this is now the lowest I've been. I'm now on the final countdown to meet my goal, less than 5lbs-can you imagine?!?!? I tried on those infamous jeans yesterday, and they are still tighter than a boa constrictor on me, I didn't have to lay on the bed to zip them up this time-so that's progress!! Maybe one day I'll actually take off the price tags and where them!!:lol:

Today is TUESDAY TIPS and this is my contribution (hope I haven't posted this one before, can't remember):

Does working out in the morning keep your metabolism up all day?

Answer: Exercise can increase one's metabolism even after exercise, due to the lingering effects of hormones, such as adrenaline released during exercise and due to an increase in circulation in attempt to dissipate the heat created from exercise. But the duration and magnitude of the increased metabolism post-exercise may not always be significant enough to burn a whole lot of calories. You can expend as little as an extra 40 calories to as much as an extra 400 calories or more. The harder and longer your workout was, the greater effect it will have on your metabolism. But, another real benefit to exercising in the morning is the release of endorphins, our natural painkillers, which gets you in a wonderful mood to start the day with. Plus, you can feel a sense of accomplishment and relief that you got that workout in. Think of all the times you intended to work out in the afternoon or evening, only to have interruptions throughout the day to throw off your routine or by the end of the day your too tired to want to work out.

OVERCOME, do you watch Everybody Love Raymond?? It was hysterical last night!! I love that show. I think that's great that you are taking your own sgetti tonight for your dinner, I do it all the time when invited to others homes-everyone knows I'm on SB though, and no one says a word, not that I'd care if they did-this is too important to me for anyone to screw up-so I say, good for you!!! I'll e-mail you with my addy again, hoping I get to see some of your handiwork this time :)

MARGARET, glad to hear you had a good day all around yesterday! Don't worry if you post some old news, most of the time, old news is good news and it's worth repeating!!

SPARKLE, just take one day at a time with the food. Hopefully you'll nip those carb cravings in the bud-you're body will thank you in the long run. I haven't eaten fast food in over a year, and before that, it was RARE. That's where it really hits you, not in the pocket, but in the belly. When you opt to eat healthy all the way around, you feel better in more ways than one. One demon at a time for you:devil:

BIGO, glad to hear the soup was a success. I like soup, hate making it. I love good, thick soup, like barley mushroom, but then again, love French onion! Glad you are able to reply again at work-what do you think made it start working??

MELF, way to go on that walk, and what a good friend you have to push you out and go! YOU ARE WORTH IT! Glad you like the polling feature-I wonder if non-registered users are allowed to vote? Waiting for an answer from Suzanne. Send some ideas for any polling questions my way. Did you see my message last week about the pledge??

QUILTER, glad you like the poll feature and the new board. I'm getting use to it too and liking it better daily. Thanks for all the words of encouragment-it makes my day so much brighter when I read words like that. Ahh yes, pray for me over the next 2 days-down or the same, I don't care, as long as I'm not up!!! What you are doing with that guy is wonderful, that must make you feel so good!!! You're such an angel:angel:

GATOR, loved the pic of the Gator walking!!!

BEACH, glad you got in your walk, despite the rains. I know how it is when you want to walk and can't-it really screws up one's day!!! Thanks for the tip on the muchies, it's a good one!!!!

KAREN, glad to hear you found a few things at the HFS. MARANTHA carries organic almond butter and regular, try to find the regular if you can. Here in my stores it's a ridiculous $7.99 a jar, go to TJ's and you can find it for less than $4.00! BIG difference! I haven't tried the cashew butter. You could buy some almonds yourself and throw them in your food processor and make your own AB. I do that with peanuts and make my own PB.

BLOND, thanks for your Motivational words!! Are you being effected by the rolling blackouts there?? 94 degrees, yeck!:eek: Thanks for your tip, it's a good one. I feel exactly the same way. I won't cheat for anyone or anything-no matter what. Keep that frame of mind and you'll be at goal before you know it!

RHROO, you'll get to goal soon. Just remember, when something comes along that's not on plan, just ask yourself, would I rather eat this, or get to goal, which is more important-what you decide to do is totally up to you and how you feel. No pressure here, huh?

FROG, glad you checked in, we miss not seeing you on the board as often as before, but a little something is better than nothing:)

VIV, glad to see you back on the board. I've been trying to find time to reply to your e-mail, please, be patient with me. I found those carob coated almonds, wish I hadn't! They are delicious! I only bought 12 of them, and boy, that was more than enough, I ended up eating 9 of them! I hope all goes well with your Dad, keep us posted. That's great your only 1lb from your FL goal, I remember you asking me if it was possible when you started - anything is possible!! Kids have no school that day, yippeeee, so I can't see why I can't meet you!! Make sure you call me when you get the chance.

Gotta run, it's getting late. Will check in with you all later. Please remember, [b]TOMORROW IS WEIGH IN WEDNESDAY!!!![b]

Later!

Debbie
194.133.5/129
Miami, FL

Mornin,

I'm in a crappy mood this morning. It's the first morning of spring and I'm looking out my office window to see big fat SNOWFLAKES falling! AAARRRGGGHHH! This is Alabama--the deep south for cryin out loud--the azealas are bloomin and it's snowing. I am so ready for spring and for spring break.

Beachfan--I heard you were getting some icky weather up Birmingham way too. It won't stick, but it's cold and rainy and the snow is adding insult to injury. Ick--I left the midwest and moved back south just to avoid this type of weather! Apparently I need to head to florida with Deb and BOB!

Viv--I feel bad whining about the weather when you are dealing with major life trauma. I'll be thinking about you and hoping that everything will be better soon. Like you I'm a woman on the edge of a vacation!

Sparkle--congrats on giving up the cigarettes and the starches. I think you really will see a difference. One thing I've ntoiced is that when I go out to dinner I don't eat the bread they bring out. After the meal, when everyone else is complaining about being stuffed, I feel satisfied but am not miserably stuffed. In middle age I finally learned the difference between "satisfied" and "stuffed."

Deb--it's good to hear that you are back at your low--I hate all that bouncing around the scale does. But at least it bouces around at a lower level than it used to--way to go!!!

Need to grade some papers now--but thanks for being here when I need my morning sanity check.

Susan
300/256/150

:wave:

Its been really busy at work and at home and haven't had much time to think and post. Just wanted to let everyone know that I'm still here. :)

A question for polls...

How many times per week do you weigh yourself

What kind of food is the hardest to resists?

Choices should be chocolate (not SB legal kind), Pasta, Potatoes, etc...

I'll think of more...

:wave:

Hi everyone!

Just wanted to tell you a littel story. This will help to understand just how important eating the right kind of foods can really be.

I have a friend in her early 50s. She has Chondrocalcinosis (spelling). It's like arthritis. She was on all kinds of anti-inflamatories. She couldn't walk without crutches and was the youngest person her doctor in Ann Arbor had seen with this condition. It gets worse and usually does not get better. Well, she started her change in diet with a change in water and drank only distilled water. Then other changes, no processed foods, whole graines, etc. The moral of this story is that she now walks 2 miles per day, has no medications to take and of course is without the crutches. Her doctor didn't think it was possible but is now using her case as an example for his other patients. So...... I believe that with the proper diet, we can do anything.

I'll check in later too

Cheri
287/273.5/145

Hi everyone

This is just a quick post as I have to get ready for work very soon and have a pile of dishes in the sink. Haven't time to read all the posts but hope to get through them later. I tried getting on this morning but the board was down for maintenance work.

Deb, I like the idea of the Polls, I will respond to your e-mail later.

I had a good start to the morning. Did the 2 mile walk video. This is one I like to do first thing in the morning while I have energy as it is the only aerobic tape that I have. I tried it a few days ago late in the evening but I was too pooped to finish it, only managed 1 mile that day. The scales were good to me yesterday, I was down one pound. The pound came back this morning but I hope it is the beginning of a downward trend. Even though I haven't lost much lately my new clothes are beginning to get a little loser - so that is a good sign. Maybe I am building up some muscle.

MargaretA, Welcome to the board. You will get losts of support here.

Viv, I am thinking of you and praying that things go well for your Dad. That was a good idea you had of printing out the posts. I may do that so I can take it to work to read.

I made the Crockpot Cabbage Rolls a couple of days ago. They were very good. I will post the recipe on the Recipe Board. I also tried the Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken - that was really yummy. The recipe does call for some brown sugar but I am sure a sugar substitute would work just as well. I will post this recipe also.

BigO - SUCCESS AT LAST - glad to see you posting from work.

Have to run.

Marie :)

Hi, everyone....

Just wanted to post a quick note to let you all know that I'm not MIA -- I've just been have a VERY rough past few days!

We had to have our septic tank pumped (yuck!), which resulted in them telling us that our entire drain line needs to be replaced -- a nice $1300/tear up our backyard operation!!

Then, on Friday, I ended up getting hit with a horrendous migraine, which had me down and out until yesterday!! The only good thing to come of that was that since I wasn't able to eat, I lost another 4 pounds! (Not healthy, I know!)

I'm hoping this week is going to be BETTER!!!

CATS: Thanks for asking about my kitten!! Abby is doing fine, and actually got the bandages off her paws this morning. She only had the front 2 paws declawed, plus was spayed. She's back to her feisty little self now!

DEBELLI: I like the polls...it's a neat idea! I am so impressed with your walking habits -- I really need to get myself out there!!

BOB: Wow...you're soup sounds delicious! I will definitely have to try that recipe! I'm planning on making my SB-legal chili tomorrow...yum!!

QUILTER: I'm impressed with your tutoring -- I'm a teacher (on hiatus) and a tutor, but only work with elementary kids. I can only imagine some of the difficulties in tutoring adults, especially ones with problems. BTW...where in Cincinnati are you from??

ONEMORETIME and MARGARETA: Welcome!!!

Best go check on my boys -- hope you all have a great day!!

Deb :wave:
168/160.5/<130

Hello My Friends,

I'm back! Actually I never went anywhere! Time has been a factor. I've been extemely busy at work with some mission projects! For those who don't know, I work in the ministry. We have a mission in the inner city of Baton Rouge. Very rewarding ministry!

I was able to walk my half mile on Monday (VERY MINOR back pain). Actually I bumped it up a little. I'll make that 1 mile hike yet!!!

Confession time: I ate a hamburger yesterday, and feel pretty good about it. Am I suppose to feel guilty? Maybe, But I don't and I have no regrets. IS THAT NORMAL??? AM I NORMAL???? I don't feel as though I cheated (even though in SB terms I did) but the burger was something I wanted and I ate it. And I'm okay with it.

In the past, while dieting on other plans I would have been emotionally distraught if I had ate a burger! But I'm still focused and feeling good.

I ask again..is it normal to feel that way?

I'll do my half mile today when I get home and I'm actually looking forward to it. I'm nearly to the point of being "obsessed" with this WOE. How's that for an attitude adjustment???

Thanks Ladies! You're the angels in my pocket!!!
StarChaser

Good Afternoon everyone.

It's a wonderful warm spring day in California (with or without power).. It's probably good to take a step back and power-down every once in a while.. Gives you move time to walk, etc. I had to work in downtown San Francisco yesterday and it was absolutely beautiful..

IDBLOND: You must be in Southern Calif. because we're only in the high 70's and low 80's in Northern Calif...

I'm doing better OP. I think I just needed a little bit of the "sunshine"!:cool:

DEBBIE: Just got back from Trader Joe's.. Had to pick up some milk (no growth hormones in it) and the flourless bread that I love.. In your honor, I picked up Almond Butter $3.89 (cheap).. I bought some Tomato Splash.. hadn't noticed it until you mentioned it in one of you posts. Last week I made the 17 Bean Recipe on the back of Trader Joe's 17 Beans.. It was great, I used the TJ's marinara, etc. Today I got some TJ's peanut butter and pure fruit jams and a few other items to send to my son :devil:... my 21 year old baby who moved to Tulsa in February..
He loves his job... loves the people (some from CA/PA/TX/WI/AK/WA/CANADA/SWEDEN/AUSTRALIA- everywhere but OK).... but is having a hard time getting used to the weather.. go figure Calif to OK!! I don't think it sunk in when we told him that he was moving to Tornado Alley.. hope he knows enough to get in a bathtub instead of under a table!!!

Did I every mention what my son gave me for Christmas.... A darling little guinea pig, Miss Piggy!! She is black and fairly short haired.. still pretty tiny. Does anyone know when they are considered full grown? He was anticipating a move and I"m sure he thought this would help me get through the empty next syndrome! He took he three ferrets (Rocky, Cleo and Kyra) with him to OK. Good thing too because they are totally illegal in Calif. The pet stores sell everything you need for them however. Somehow I had become there primary caregiver and he has had them for almost four years. I cleaned the cage/litter pan daily and bathed them weekly.. compared to those three, a guinea pig is a piece of cake (sugar-free)... Believe it or not I miss them, they are wonderful pets, but not the work!

My throughts and prayers go out to everyone on the board!!

Back to work.. I am so fortunate to be able to telecommute (thank you God!). :angel:

EVENING EVERYBUDDY :D

Well, I KNEW IT WAS TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE!
After those two posts I did this morning, the board started rejecting me again. I have emailed Suzanne ONE MORE TIME about this. It's so agrivating! Who knows what happened to let me do it, but I'm back to
reading and wishing I could post again!
Also, at work, when I bring up the "post reply", I'm able to see the previous posts....on my computer here at home, I have to click on the "here" at the bottom of the screen to see the previous posts. It opens in a new window which won't stay open when I start to post.
b*i*t*c*h...b*i*t*c*h....b*i*t*c*h.......ONE OF THE PERKS OF BEING A WOMAN

Hope everyone had a good day. I had my soup for lunch, and it was SO GOOD!!! TURNIPS and ALL :lol:

I'm off to feed Skeeter...

BOB

Surfing tidbit for the day from Shape Magazine:

How America is Making You Fat
(http://www.shape.com/magazines/magViewer/FitnMagArt.asp?Catid=233&Objid={2C648B9D-0F67-11D5-B8A0-0090277C0A31}&curpage=1&curCatID=181&SuperCID=181&CID=B&SubCID=A)

BOB: I couldn't see your attachment about the chips but I would like to!

As I've posted before, OA is not the magic cure for everything, but the program has honestly worked miracles in my life. My obsession with weight started early too--at the age of FOUR my identity was "the fat girl." My father and brother are compulsive overeaters to the point that they don't lead a "normal" life because of their addictions.

I feel there are three components to successful recovery: physical recovery, spiritual recovery, and reaching out to the greater community. We can go to the gym 8 hours a day and live on celery fumes, but unless we address the emotional issues that are keeping us fat, we will always sabotage ourselves sooner or later. OA addresses the emotional issues and provides community support while not interfering with the physical side of recovery with "diet plans." That's up to us. I'm sure there are other ways to get support but you can't beat the fact that the meetings are FREE.

cheri45: Good luck with the walking routine! Sounds like you have the right idea.

overcome: One of the hardest parts of adapting to a new way of eating (or way of life as I like to say) is OTHER PEOPLE. Fortunately I've trained most of the people in my life quite well over the past year. ;) The hardest was my mother, who lives to feed us. I call her a "compulsive feeder" instead of a "compulsive eater." Well the routine when I go over to her house is to offer me stuff to eat. Usually I'll give in. Okay, to be more honest, in the past I would just open the refrigerator and help myself to whatever until I was stuffed.

So when I started my recovery last year, I simply avoided her house for nearly 6 months. I couldn't handle it! Finally I went back. Well, the routine started. "Do you want ice cream?" (It was ten in the morning for chrsssakes!!!) "Do you want cereal? Do you want a sandwich?" No thank you, I answered each time. This went on for about five more items and I said no thank you to each one. Finally I started SCREAMING! "NO THANK YOU NO THANK YOU" over and over until she stopped. A few minutes later, in a very small voice, she said, "do you want a tomato?" and handed me a very nice one. So I took it home and made beef tomatoes for dinner.

Well, she still hasn't stopped the "do you want" routine. But every time I go to her house, I just say no. I have a firm resolve never to snack at her house and have done a pretty good job over the past year.

Melf: Yes you ARE worth it, and didn't you feel better after that walk? I can't remember ever saying, gee, I really wish I didn't do that three mile run today! ;)

beachfan37 : I like your idea of eating good stuff until full...I *know* all this stuff in my head but it's amazing how often I still fall into old, worn out traps...and one of them is trying to have "self control" and skip meals, then get hungry and eat the first thing I can grab.

Idblond: The story about the green french fries was just way too cute! I know what you mean about having stuff in the house. I am so used to living alone but I have a roomie now, for 7 months. He's pretty good about food and understands that I have a problem, but occasionally there are challenges. He brought this onolicious pudding cake home from Safeway and although I was tempted, it helped to know that I just DON'T eat cake, that it's not even an option to eat cake. So I didn't have to agonize over the decision.

Then there is the massive TV that is suddenly sitting in my living room after nearly 5 years of spiritual silence and bliss. I don't know how I'm going to deal with the TV in the house. I knew he was going to buy one but now that it's in the living room, and so BIG, I'm having issues. I shelled out 25 bucks for a network cable so I could at least move my computer in the dining room a few feet away from the noise. Sheesh. Frustrated.

Viv, I second the emotion about long term care insurance, and 401(k) contributions. I'm in financial planning and it's amazing the stuff that makes so much sense now but I wouldn't have dreamed of doing before I got into this field.

I'm so stoked that you are so close to your goal! You rock! Good luck.


Debbie: sheesh! 58.5 minutes = 13 minute miles which is nearly as fast as I RUN and believe me, I'm sweating like a horse! I'm way impressed. I know what you mean about one demon at a time. It's like if I'm too "good" I feel kinda naked! ;) But I am determined to make progress and I have the tools to succeed!

Fillise: That's a great idea about not eating bread at dinner. When I was a teenager I couldn't understand anything in between eating boxes of chocolates and living on lettuce. It took me a long time to realize that I can go out and enjoy a good meal at a nice restaurant, and not overeat, simply by eliminating bread and dessert!

Way way past time to get back to work. I would like to heartily thank everyone for the good wishes on giving up smoking!!! It means so much to me to have your support. Today is the third day, I'm halfway through and my resolve is strong! I do however, feel like I'm blowing up like a balloon. My tummy is so poofy :( :( :(

I need some suggestions, peeps, on little things I can do to relieve stress and anxiety, now that I'm not smoking. All I can think of doing is eating! Argh! So if you have any suggestions, please share!

Love,

Chris

SparkleScamp - Your story was inspiring. I too come from a long lin of over feeders. My reply in those situation has been "Don't love me with food."

Congrats on making it another day without a cigarette! Remember that :smoking: is a :nono: !

Peace,

Frog

Happy to say that I am back on track again. Yesterday was a good day for me food-wise. Today I started off with an hour long run in the woods near my house. The sun was shining, the birds were singing and my legs were stinging! Weight is down a pound so far and I'm hoping to be at goal (13 lbs. lighter) by my 40th birthday which is at the end of June. Very do able I think!

Deb... Sounds like a great walk you had the other day. You are right, Finn Crisps rock! I appreciate your advice on upping my protein. I'll give that a shot. I'm also more conscious of drinking my water which has always been a struggle for me.

Chris... thanks for the wonderful night-time tip. I love it!

Cheri... you are sweet! Geeh, just like that chocolate I ate. :)

Ashley... way to go with the planning ahead with the pasta.

Margaret... well I think I'll see how the magnesium goes first before I book the hysterectomy, thanks. :)

BOB... I love soup. Look forward to trying your new recipe and thanks for the encouragement!

Thanks all,

Jan

Hi Everyone:)

Well it is the first day of Spring and I woke up to 3 inches of snow and slush on the ground. The snow melted quickly but it has rained all day and been cold. Like Fillise I too love the warm weather and live in the sunny south for it. I think I need to move to Florida too!

My tip for the day is based on the poll. It is obvious that most of us eat off plan every once in awhile. The key to success on this WOE is getting right back on track IMMEDIATELY. Don't wait till tomorrow and then eat off plan all day. At the next meal, eat right. Begin Again right away and not sometime later. That is how you can keep eating healthy for life and losing weight.

Well, I won't get excercise in today. But hopefully tomorrow I can walk.

Hope everyone has a good WIW.

Anna
222/139/140

Hi all! I posted yesterday but it didn't make it to the board... not sure why. I tried to attach a cute kitty at the end and it said it was too big, so maybe that is why!

OK... here goes. I am feeling WAY sorry for myself and so I went to Chilis tonight and drank draft beer and ate chips, concaeso (spelling?) and salsa.... I feel awful right now... tired and lathargic!

I was on SB for 4 weeks straight with absolutely no cheating except if you count the sour dough. I would go down on the scale to 196 then back to 198 then back to 199 then back to 197.... Anyway, I am reading all this stuff about everyone being so successful and I just lost it. So, the last week, I have been cheating about once a day - little things until today...

I was put on a medication about 3 years ago now that I gained 60 pounds in 2 months while I was working out twice a day! I weighed 135-140 before this med. I WAS AN AEROBICS INSTRUCTOR FOR GOODNESS SAKE! So, I gained this weight and have tried EVERYTHING to get it off and been very unsuccessful. The only thing that worked at all was Atkins, but as soon as I went off (who could stay on it forever!) I gained the weight back within a week!

I keep reading about all of you that are so successful and it is just really getting to me right now... sorry I am such a downer,but I really needed to tell someone.

Those of you who believe in a higher power, please pray for me to lose or feel better about myself - either would be great!

On the positive side... I have been lifting weights twice per week for 2 weeks now. I have not been doing aerobic though. With the problems with my feet (from the year of teaching aerobics) I can really only ride a bike and I have not been doing it.

Welcome to all the Newbies! I again apologize for being a downer... between being sick and now feeling sorry for myself, you guys are probably sick and tired of me!

Well, going to go before I get kicked off!

thanks Gator for the enthusiasm about the NCAA - my hubby is having a fit!!!

Love you ALL!!! Annette :crying:

Good afternoon everyone. I came in here to cool off under the fan! It's been a warm one today.

I spent some time today juicing a zillion lemons to make lemonade like Debbie mentioned she did. We have 2
lemon trees but the lemons usually go wanting. I'll try to use them this year. I read a recipe in Joy of Cooking that makes a syrup out of sugar/water/lemon juice. I just used Stevia, but of course didn't get the syrupy consistency. But it tasted good. When I put the LARGE pot on to come to a boil, dh asked me outside to check on some measuring he's doing for a new patio. I forgot the pot, and came in the house to lemon juice spilling all over the stove and dripping down the cabinets. Ugh. It's cleaned up now. Thought the sticky would never come up.

Debbie, I am so thrilled for you about your weight and upcoming anniversary. Cudos and then some!! BTW, and on a totally different subject, when I hit reply, I don't have the smilies on the left like before. I wonder why?

Had fun going on a shopping spree with QVC this afternoon. They had sterling silver jewelry from Taxco, New Mexico. I LOVE their handcrafted jewelry and bought a bit too much. Haven't broken the news to my dear husband, who has gently requested I STOP BUYING. I swear I'm compensating shopping for food. My credit card is burning up.

Well, better get the table set and get ready for dinner. I'll be checking back later to catch up on all the posts. Till later.

Hi SBers:

Here's my Tuesday tip from the Real Age web site:

Milk is not your only ally in the battle for better bones. A glass of fluoridated tap water may offer benefits, too.
According to recent studies, regularly drinking tap water that has been treated with fluoride can help increase bone mineral density and may protect against breakage. Maintaining your bone density as you age helps to prevent osteoporosis.

Keep drinking:wave:

Karen

Well Ladies, I've been off lurking in places unknown and have come back to wish everyone a good nights sleep!

Chris: I've discovered that the attachment I wanted to put on for you is on my computer at work! I'll keep trying, but if I don't succeed, I'll search for it and send it from home.

BEACH: SNOW? I thought the 58 degrees that we have here tonight was cold! Sounds to me like someone
got BEAR BRYANT riled up (wherever he might be) and he's taking his frustrations out on you AUBURN people! BUNDLE UP AND STAY WARM you don't want to get sick again!

ANNETTE: Keep that chin up girl! Everyone has their bad days...Don't let Barb see you say you cheated! You'll get it good from her! HI BARBIE, I KNOW YOU'RE LURKING OUT THERE
Wipe that grease off those hands and climb back up on that wagon! I'm here for you.....WE ALL ARE

NITE NITE
BOB

Hello fellow losers!

I did it again. I walked 2 miles today. My back aches, my right foot hurts, but I did it and I'll do it again tomorrow. I am so psyched up about exercising and losing weight I am just :dizzy:

Tomorrow is WIW. I hope we all can report losses.

Everyone have a great evening and for those who are feeling depressed, cheer up, you have all of us :D we love you!

Cheri
287/273.5/145

Hi Gals! Well, I hope you all had a super terrific Tuesday. Mine went pretty smoothly. I finally got the courage to step on the scale. The needle was teetering between 179 and 180. That was disappointing, but it was after I ate breakfast AND my hair was wet. You do think that wet hair weighs more than dry hair, right???? Anyways, I’ve decided to go the “Debbie Route” and start weighing every morning. Years ago I read that Carbohydrate Addicts Book and they suggested weighing every day and doing a weekly average. That sounded like a good idea. However, I will still give my true WIW weigh in tomorrow. The average will be for my own personal sanity.

DEB---What kind of jelly do you use on your PB&J? I have not even thought about jelly since starting SB. I thought you couldn’t eat fruit with anything else and I guess I just thought that since jelly is made from fruit it would be considered a fruit. But since you mentioned it, I’ve been thinking how good that sounds. I sure do hope these unsweetened carob chips are legal. I really like them and they really hit the spot for a little something sweet. Next time I’m at WO I’ll check the label on the bulk bin. And 133.5 . . . all I have to say is YOU RULE!!!!! That is so great! How happy were you when you saw that you were down another half??? Did you do the happy dance?

MELF---Congrats on staying strong and not giving into the temptation to NOT walk. You had to have been so proud of yourself. Way to go!!!! You are inspiring me to go get on that TM again! Also I loved the Friendship is Contagious image.

KAREN---Am eager to hear what you learned from the articles on Insulin. Please share.

BLOND---Thanks for the motivational thoughts. I love imagining all the possibilities that are just “brewing” beneath the surface for each of us. Thanks so much for putting that into your post. Awesome!!!!! Also really appreciated your tip today about not buying the carton of ice cream. I never have ice cream for that reason. Too afraid of having it calling to me from the freezer. But I think your idea sounds like a good one. Where do you go and what kind do you get. I know nothing about sf ice cream because I’ve tried to distance myself from it.

RHROO---Hey, gal!!! For the life of me, I’m sitting here trying to imagine somebody telling me that I don’t have any butt left. And quite frankly . . . I can’t even get it into the scope of my thinking. Good for you. That must have made you feel great.

VIV---It was good to see your post. I know the vacation will be great and I will say all sorts of prayers and good thoughts for your dad. I like your idea about printing out the thread. So smart. And congrats on the 10 pounds. That’s great!!! Two 5-pound bags of sugar (or flour or whatever) are gone from your body. I learned in WW to visualize your loss. You could also visualize it as 40 sticks of butter. Now that’s impressive!!! If I don’t talk to you, have fun on the trip. Let us know as soon as you hear something about your dad.

FILLISE---So sorry to hear about the flakes this morning. Truly not the way anyone wants to usher in spring. Especially you southerners. That’s really stinky!!

CHERI---Your story about your friend just blew me away. She’s living, WALKING proof that our health is all about what we nourish our body with. How great for her. She is probably really enjoying life more now since she was out of commission and not able to do anything. Thanks for telling us about her.

ROSALIE---It’s always good to read your posts. I draw so much inspiration from you. Since we both have the Leslie Sansone tapes I feel a kindred spirit with you. Glad your painting is finished. That has to be a good feeling. What’s the next big project???? Coming to my house and helping me????? The trouble is I have so many rooms to do, I don’t know where to start.

DEBSTAHL---Do you know my fair city? If so, how? Have you ever been down here? Do you know people who live here? We live in a section called Mt. Airy. It’s just about 10-13 minutes from downtown. It’s on the west side of town. The east side is the posh “in” place to live, but I’m not into that sort of impressing everybody thing, so we’re happy to stay right here. We both work downtown and it’s an easy drive in. I knew we had things in common. I LOVE TEACHERS . . . even when they are on hiatus. It’s the BEST profession there is with the most important stakes. Pity none of you are paid what you so greatly deserve. Don’t get me started on that. Ha!

STARCHASER---That’s so cool about your ministry. I’ll bet you really love it. Keep going on those walks. They will seem shorter and shorter the more you go. And as far as the hamburger goes . . . if you don’t feel any guilt, then don’t feel guilty. (Wasn’t that wise?????) It sounds like you know what to do and what to eat. Sometimes I think it’s better to take care of a craving right at first because I’ve been known to build a craving up so big that it needs its own zip code. Then I binge like crazy. Of course, I haven’t really done that on SB because I think the cravings are so much weaker than before. They just don’t have a lot of ooompf for me. Easier to ignore that way.

VR---I loved hearing what all you bought at TJs. I can’t wait to hit the one in Indy with CHERI. But I had to laugh, because that was probably pure torture for DEB and ORANGE. They’ve got it BAD for TJ and can’t get to one anytime soon. Is yours right where you live? Also loved hearing about your new little house buddy. She sounds sweet. I’ll bet she’s soft and soft can be. Why are ferrets illegal in CA? I’ve never heard that one. Seems a bit discriminatory to me.

BOB---I could never understand why you have two sign ins. Can’t you just sign in as BOB where ever you are. I check the board from all sorts of different computers, not just my home one. Have you tried logging in under the normal name? I feel like I’m just being very dumb here and that there is an obvious reason why you need to do it. Please enlighten me. Anyways, hope you get it figured out soon. Sucks to have a disobedient computer. Next time you see Ann tell her I said hi. Paul is going to scan the pictures of our get together tomorrow and then I’ll email them to you and Deb. I don’t know how to attach. Wait a minute . . . I’ll bet I can do it. Give me a couple of days . . . I may just be able to master it. BTW . . . that really is Miss Maddie in my avatar. Isn’t she beautiful? I wish you could see her in person. She doesn’t look like a 9-year old dog. I guess all that expensive dog food is paying off.

SPARKLE---What you said about OA was very interesting? Are there chapters all over the country? How do you get involved? I’ve always suspected a little bit of sabotaging on my part, but couldn’t put my finger on the why. Let me know more. If you’d rather, email me about it. I’d love to hear more. I loved your story about your mom. I come from a long line of “true happiness comes from stuffing yourself or those you love”. I could so relate. I did have to laugh at the tomato. Good one.

JAN---Congrats on being so close to goal. What a way to celebrate 40. I have to say that I’ve been happier in my 40’s than any other period of my life. I think being 40 and at your goal weight would be so wonderful. You’d have to pry me off the ceiling I’d be flying so high. I’m pulling for you, girl. You’ll make it.

BEACH--Sorry to hear about your weather. Springtime slush is worse than winter slush . . . because it’s so unnecessary. Right? Your tip is good and work printing out and hanging on the bathroom mirror. Thanks bunches.

ANNETTE---Consider yourself “prayed for”. I will keep you in my thoughts and really pull for you to see a loss soon. Of course, after the Chili’s incident, we may have a wait a couple of days, right??? But you’ll get there soon. Keep the faith. If it makes you feel less lonely, I gained four pounds over vacation and now have my loss total at a whopping 5 pounds. That’s not too impressive for two months work. But I’m still going to kerep with it. And do the best job I can at staying on program. Hang in there with me. We’ll creep down those scales together. Okay? Speaking for myself, I am neither sick nor tired of you. The board is for good times and bad times. The next time you need to vent, come here first before the trip to Chili’s. Maybe we can put up a mental & emotional roadblock for you.

BUNNY---I sure don’t envy your sticky kitchen mess. That would have made me cuss . . . no doubt about it. I love QVC. Watch it every morning while getting ready for work. Didn’t see any sterling on this morning, but your morning would have meant the middle of my workday. Hope you enjoy your purchases. I haven’t bought any jewelry from there. But I have to tell you that the Diamonique is certainly tempting me. It looks really nice on the screen . . . just wondering how it holds up to real life examination.

Okay, I am not a basketball fan (please still be my friends) and I don’t have ANYTHING to add about the playoffs. But I can tell you one thing for sure. UK fans (and there are A HEAPING BUNCH around here) are not one bit please that Pitino might be going to Louisville. Not even two hours from the sacred grounds of Rupp Arena and Wildcats everywhere. Whew!!!! I’ve heard that some are in total shock and disbelief. This will be the only mention from me about any college sports.

Good night all. Think I'll go soak my aching bones and read for a bit.
Kim
185/180/139

Hi Everyone!
It's been mighty chilly here for the first day of spring, but a beautiful day none the less. Had a busy day today. I've been involved in a food pantry ministry for the past 6 years. We do this once a month. Today we had 30 families to come for food. It sure is a rewarding thing to minister to them. Some are like my grandmother. I miss them, worry about them, & have to hug their necks when they come.

Anyway, I didn't get home till late & didn't get a chance to walk, so I'm dissapointed about that. I did drive the distance of my walk yesterday & found that it was 3.3 miles. WOW! I was excited that I had actually walked that far.

Well, this is short, but got to go iron a uniform for tomorrow. Got 12 hr shifts the next 2 days. I'll be glad to see DST get here on April 1st, cause then it will still be light when I get home at 7:30 & I'll be able to walk!

Sorry I can't respond to any posts tonight...Hope to do that later. Good luck on WIW, hope there are lots of losers!!!

Annette, I would suggest that you look at yourself through the eyes of your Creator. He is the One that gives you dignity and worth, and according to scripture, you are worth everything to Him!! Try Ps. 103 or 139 when you are feeling down and worthless. The higher power, who I call God, doesn't grade based on what you weigh or what you look like. He "grades" on your heart and in what you trust. So, gal, smile because someone really loves you. :)

Marie--How have you been doing lately? I've been thinking about you and changes in your life.

Sparkle--I agree with you about Debelli's walking. I can hardly imagine walking that fast. When I was running I was doing 10 min. miles, and I think Deb walks that fast. I can't figure it, either. Her legs are not very long. I get tired just thinking about it.

Star--It sounds like you have a healthy attitude about the burger. So often we beat ourselves up over just a normal bit of food. You aren't gonna die over eating a hamburger, for heaven's sake. And you are choosing to get on plan with your next meal choice. So good for you with a good attitude. BTW, what kind of work do you do, specifically?

DebStahl--We had our cat declawed on its front paws last month. We went out of town for a week and just took him in the day before we left and picked him up when we got back. So I only had to fiddle with the torn newspaper bit for a couple of days. He had never been left at the vets before and acted really clingy after he got back. He is an indoor/outdoor cat, and sleeps outdoors at night except when it is really cold. We got new furniture and was tired of the damage he did on our old leather couch!

VR--We used to live in San Francisco 36 years ago, the first year of our marriage. It was a great town to live in as a young couple. We were dirt poor but SF has so many things to do that are free. A wonderful place. We still visit there occasionally.

Big Orange--Hope you get the computer-SB board thing to work at your office. I miss your "BOBAW" byline.

Fillise and Beach Fan--It's hard to imagine snow in Ala. It sounds incompatible. Be patient. Spring comes tomorrow so it should get warm soon.

Gotta go, my DH just got home and we want to spend a little time visiting. We've both been having meetings almost every night, and are like two ships passing in the night. So we're gonna visit.

Here's a picture of me, still walking. I couldn't find one of me biking, but that is the exercise that I'm planning to do tomorrow.

!

I am amazed at the amount of posts on here!! Holy Moly!! I'll never be able to respond to everyone!!

First...I brought my own WW pasta to my friends for dinner. PETE MADE IT FROM SCRATCH FOR ME!!! Is he sweet or what? He met me there for dinner. He was coming from home, I was coming from work so I asked him to bring some WW pasta. Of course I was referring to the box of WW pasta and he went ahead and made it from scratch!! It was wonderful. So light and airy. We froze the rest for another time.

Now my secret is out! I was laying low with this WOE b/c I didn't want to draw attention to myself. Well, the hostess, my very good friend and colleague, is really interested in this WOE. You all are probably thinking, great, turn her on to SB. I feel very self conscious about the whole thing. Oh well, we'll see.

Someone mentioned white whole wheat flour. Guess who makes it?? Hodgson Mills of course. Here's what I found...

"White wheat has been around for centuries and has been the mainstay crop for regions like Australia and Eastern Europe. In the western part of the world red wheats dominate. While its name is White Wheat, this wonderful wheat kernel is actually tan in color and produces a milder, sweeter tasting flour than red wheat. Try our new Whole Wheat White Flour in all recipes that call for whole wheat flour. Just substitute our White Wheat Flour in the same proportion."

$3.00 for 5 lbs.

I also found UNBLEACHED White flour from them...

"Unbleached and unenriched - a combination hard to find in an all-purpose white flour. Hodgson Mill Unbleached White Flour is made by removing the bran and the germ, leaving a naturally white flour consisting mainly of the endosperm (inner portion of the wheat kernel). We never use bleaching agents or any other chemical in the milling or packaging process. Use in place of any all-purpose flour. This flour is particularly popular for people on iron-restricted diets."

Deb...what do you think of the above. Legal or not? I;m assuming not, but I think it is interesting.

Quilter...you get a gold star for responding to everyone :) Hopefully I can do the same SOMETIME this week.

Goodnight!
Ashley

Wow, I finally get to have my turn on the computer. Didn't get home til almost 9pm from a full day out, only to find Michael on the computer, then Lauren needed it and now it's my turn.

It's great to see the board so busy today-you gals are going to keep me busy tomorrow getting in all my replies to everyone, just no energy to do so tonight-hope you understand-it's almost 11pm!:yawn:

Just a quick reminder, tomorrow is WEIGH IN WEDNESDAY and I hope and pray the scales are kind to us all tomorrow.

I'll be back on sometime tomorrow, not sure how my day is looking, so I can't commit to morning or afternoon, but you can be sure, I'll be on this board at somepoint-if not, that means only 1 of 2 things, my computer crashed or I'm dead!:eek:

See you all tomorrow!!

NITE!:dz:

Debbie
194/133.5:D/129
Miami, FL

Just a quick late night post! Everyone is sooooo busy posting such nice long posts!! very motivating!
Viv i totally forgot to tell ya that i was thinking of you and your dad-what a helpless feeling he should be thankful for such a great daughter. I also thought of you when i bought some more chocolate-on sale again do ya need some ? :nono: ((hugs)) to you too!
Deb-133.5 wooooooooooooo hoooooooooo I hope i get to weigh tomorrow after my walk and before i take hubby to luch for his bday!!! I am not expecting anything short of a miracle! but the past two days i have been great! thats as good as a loss for me. I feel in control-again! :D
Ldblond-great tip about going out for your treats! I can go overboard with a half gallon of sugar free icecream! I saw somewhere when someone wanted a candy bar they make themselves walk to the store to get it!
All you excersises out there sound like your doing awsome! i am very proud of you. Excersise is a big part of this i think.
Debsthal-cheer up!!!!! hope tomorrow is better for you!
Star- Big wooooooo hoooooo on the walk -keep it up it is addicting and soooooooooo good for you-watch those inches fall off!
Jancan-you can do it it sounds like a reasonable goal!!!! good luck!!!!
Annette-we are here for you girl!!!! you can do this!!!!! way to go on the weights- i have started twice a week and i think i am developing a tiny bicept!
Quitler-you go girl on that excersise! I get my jelly at Trader joes or in the supermarket i get the 100% fruit. I would feel great about the no butt comment if everyone would stop attacking the way my body looks! Latley no one can just say i look good they have to comment on this or that! I do it to myself good enough i don't need them. My mom did it tonight she looked at me shook her head and whined cuz she can't do it "you look soooo good-your butts is flat!?" whats up with that? why are people looking at my butt! LOL then she goes on about how thin my face is!!! its to funny i should write a book about these comments! I really think getting rid of sugar in my body and excersise has made me lose in places i normally wouldn't! does that make sense?????
well gotta go to bed night everyone good luck tomorrow!!!!

Good morning all :)

Good news this morning. I am down to 203 pounds - 2 pounds less than the last time I posted for WIW. That's 2 pounds in three weeks! :dizzy:

Off to work again this morning. Hope to have time to read more of the posts either this evening or tomorrow.
Plan to go for badminton this evening if I am not too pooped.

Marie.
235/203/190

HEY ROSALIE---I'm giving you a big old YEEHAW AND a YIPPEE tacked on for good measure. That's great that you lost 2 pounds. You are so close to a huge breakthrough. Think how awesome it will be in a few weeks when you cross over into the 190's. That's a perfect short-term goal!!!! HOW SWEET IT IS, HOW SWEET IT IS!!!


As for my weigh in, here's the deal. You be the judge. I am down FOUR POUNDS from my weigh in of yesterday. How can that be??? Was my wet hair really that heavy? Anyways, that means I'm back to 176 which I was already at a few weeks ago. Since this is a re-loss, does it still count as a loss for the WIW board? Not quite sure. I am definitely counting it as a loss for me, but just not sure about being official.

That's it. Gotta skeedaddle and get ready for work.
If I listen real close, I can hear the sound of your scales moving in the RIGHT direction! Have a GREAT day!!! Be back tonight.
Kim

Good morning, everyone!!

After my illness-induced 4 pound loss, I've come back up a bit. I'm now at 161, which is actually a 7 pound loss since restarting SB last Monday!! That definitely makes me happy!! :spin:

I finally came up with a lunch meal that's SB-legal (that was my hardest meal, for some reason!). I'm using the Toufoyan whole wheat pita (1/2 piece), thinly sliced oven-roasted chicken and a pinch of shredded Mozzarella with deli-style mustard. I throw it in the microwave for about 30 seconds, and YUM!! Pretty simply, I know, but it makes my tummy happy!! I'm making my SB-legal chili tonight for dinner -- it is SO good. I will have to post the recipe tomorrow.

STAR: As long as you are OK with it (and don't make a habit of it!), I wouldn't sweat about your burger. I think sometimes you've got to give a little, or else you'll go WAY overboard and gorge one day!! Great job with the exercizing -- you've really hit a groove now that you're looking forward to your walks!

SPARKLE: Your post about compulsive feeders is so true...I had a friend I used to live near, and she ALWAYS was making little "treats" for me. My sister also has tendencies to want to feed -- can definitely make things difficult! Good luck with the no smoking -- you can do it!!

ANNETTE: I know exactly what you are going through...it's the same thing I did and ended up totally falling off the wagon. That was 8 months ago, and I am back with SB. When I think about all the weight I could have lost had I stayed true...UGH! Just dust yourself off from this setback, and realize that you CAN lose this weight! Like I've seen others post, "Nothing tastes as good as being thin feels!"

QUILTER: YES...Cincinnati is my hometown!! I actually grew up in Montgomery, and my 2 brothers and parents still live in the area. I moved away in 1994 (after marrying my husband), but we come back at least once a year. In fact, we're coming up there in June to visit everyone before we head back overseas! I can definitely agree with you about the whole teacher pay issue! I'm actually express mailing my application today
to the Department of Defense...hoping to get hired on by them for next school year in Guam. It's been 4 years since I've been in the classroom -- I'm a little anxious! And I would definitely count your weight loss...you counted it when you went back up, right? Yippee for you!!

GATOR: Our vet actually bandaged Abby's 2 paws, and they actually stayed on until yesterday, so I never had to fool with the cut-up newspaper. She got them off yesterday, and everything seems fine! She's just an indoor cat...although I'm flying her to Guam in 3 weeks :( to begin her 4-MONTH quarantine there. She'll be in an outdoor kennel...it just breaks my heart that she has to go through it, but I can't imagine not having her there with us!

DEBELLI: Guess what! I actually found a HFS near me!! It was really hidden in a tiny little strip mall WAY off the beaten path...I'm hoping to stop in there sometime this week (w/out kids!).

ROSALIE: YEA on your 2 pound loss! That's fantastic!!

Well, the kids are getting restless...best go feed them some breakfast!!

Have a great day!!

Deb :wave:
168/161/<130

Boy, it's early in the morning and we already have some great losses reported. Way to go guys! I'm down a pound, but I'm getting those twinges for TOM, so the hormones are probably jumping around right now. I never know for sure when these things are going to happen so. . . . Happy to see that there are losses to report and I know we will see more today!

I'm really trying to be a straight arrow now before we go on vacation to get rid of as much of this excess baggage, I mean fat, as possible.

Quilter - I'll try to put some high points on the board from the insulin article. I think because it's a year old, some of the information has been further researched. From what I've read so far, it's not an endorsement for SB or the Zone way of life. I hope to post about it tomorrow night.

Have a great SB day, everyone!

Karen
207/193/?

MELF - congrats on your go get'em attitude. we all need to push outselves sometimes. I walk out the front door at lunch yesterday and just started walking towards the river. It felt good to walk...then I decided that I better turn around before I got too far away and would have to take a taxi back to work...hehehehe

QUILTER - you will have those cutie capri's on real soon..... I have not been able to find a decent pair yet. Some are cut real funny.

FROGLOVER - Today is my skinny day in pants....hehehe I think it is really after wearing my jeans a couple of times before washing I just stretch them out to accomodate for the fat...hehehe

VIV - I must have missed the earlier post about what is going on with you....BUT HANG IN THERE!!!

Happy Hump Day Everyone!!!

Sorry about my rant yesterday. It is still cold and damp here today, but no snow thank goodness!

Today I'm holding steady at 256. Given last week's losses I'm fine with that.

Last night I made a wonderful pasta a a la vodka. I'll post the recipe on the recipe board. I saw it on Martha Stewart a few weeks ago and it has become a favorite. The best part is that the longer it sits in the fridge, the better it gets. I will take it for lunch the rest of the week--which solves that problem! I forgot who is was that said lunch was the hardest meal to plan for--I find that too! Making double potions for dinner and eating the left over the next day helps with that.

Annette--I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers. I know how hard it is to fight getting discouraged, but please stay with us and let us help you through!

Big Orange Babe--you seem almost gleeful that the weather is getting to us Auburn folks! ;) I'm gonna try your soup recipe--without the turnips. It sounds yummy.

Gotta go now--papers to grade and lectures to write.

Susan

FILLISE - now you have my mouth watering....cannot wait to see this recipe....

Didjaever-- The recipe is now up on the March recipe board! It's really good. For those of you who don'twant to use half-and-half, I combine equal parts skim milk and non-fat dry milk and get the same consistency as cream or half-and-half with none of the fat.

Susan

Honestly I think the success of this board is overwhelming – so much to read! Now I answered everyone but probably won’t be able to read my writing and forget someone….

Same old same old. I am in a fog. Thank you to all for the good wishes – Dad got a call yesterday that it doesn’t look like TB so he must do the biopsy – I am flipped out that we will get the results while on vaco and while I feel very selfish feeling that way, gosh, can’t I just have one good week after all this misery? And my Dad too – ignorance is bliss, can’t we just push this thing back a week? I am trying to reach his pulmonologist, but keep missing him…

Today’s Words of Wisdom: Don’t Smoke~!

I emailed our newspaper columnist yesterday regarding the Parade article that mentioned SB in the same breath as Atkins – when I get back we will be spending some time on this issue. It’s the least I can do.

Who’s going to get voted off tonite on Survivor? Jerrijerrijerrijerri!!!! Enuf of her! Has anyone logged onto survivorsucks.com? They have the most hysterical summaries – maybe a bit risqué, but the people writing them are clearly inhaling something. If you’re into Survivor they are fun to read.

Still down at 136 – I am very pleased. I feel better, certainly look better. When I get back, my goal will be another 8. I feel I can do it, esp with the nicer weather, more conducive to walking! I do hate the treadmill, but force myself to get on it…

Deb – 5 lbs to go! You rule, girl!!! Now, I know you are petite, so I wonder if when you get to your goal you’re going to lower it…depends upon your frame, I know…when I got married I was 113 – LOL!! AT 5’4”, 5’5” gosh did I look great! I eat those carob nuts when I need a protein boost and they don’t seem to have impeded my loss – I don’t really count them as I eat, just try to keep the serving small. Of course, I asked DH to go to WO to get me more, he comes home with carob covered raisins,,,,if I had a sense of humor right now, I would have laughed….Did you get the manicure place info?

Fillise – DO NOT feel bad about whining! I whine about my nails! About the color of my jeans! Anything! Please carry on as normal, it helps, really….

Catsrule – Just want you to know that I am a fellow cataholic. J

Cheri – That was inspirational about your friend. Good for her. And good for you on your walking – I wish I had the TIME to go 2 miles! Right now I do about 1.25 in 20 minutes and that’s all the time I can spare.

Marie – Can you email me those crockpot recipes whenever you post? I love the crockpot and esp love cabbage too….vkelba@hotmail.com. Whenever you have a moment?

Didja – Your riverwalk sounds great. I almost moved to Philly once, when I was with HBO – what a very civilized city!

Debstahl – oh, I feel your septic pain! We haven’t had to o anything yet, but we are very paranoid about ours! What grade do you teach? As I’ve told Overcome, I love teachers. I have been very lucky that both my kids have had great ones so far. This morning I learned that the gifted program, which my older son qualified for, is being cut out of the budget for nexct year. We live in a great school district but now it seems they just train the kids to do great on their standardized tests so we get ranked #1…oh, I could go on!

Star – don’t feel bad about that burger, that’s like my pizza slip up, BUT next time that urge hits you bad, how about just using half the bun?

VR – what do you do as a telecommuter? Tell me more!

BOB –I just love the gifs you attach. Almost as much fun as the posts themselves!

Rhroo – I JUST finished one bar of the chocolate! Are you proud of me? I think that too a month…pretty good. So I don’t think I’ll need any for a while, but it was a good deal and may take you up on it in the future. Gald to hear you’re getting “Flat butt” comments – I don’t think that will EVER happen to me! Can you do me a favor and double space between your paragraphs on your posts….must be middle age but I have a hard time reading them when they are all in one paragraph…thanks!

Rosalie – you’re almost at the 200 mark! Congrats!!!

Annnette – hang in there! This works – but maybe you should use Fitday for awhile to make sure you are getting the right percentages of nutrients, fat, protein, etc….have you tried it? Also, I am sure you have had a full medical workup, re: thyroid,etc. You can use Dr. Deb, she is the EXPERT and pinpointing what we can do to be more successful!

Bunny – I want a lemon tree.

Karen – that was interesting gabout the water. Thanks for posting it.

Jan – 13 to go! Awesome! It will FLY!!

Kimmi - -4? How excellent! You should weigh yourself daily with the same stuff on or off – I always thought wet hair weighed more but I think that’s not true….see what it is tomoro and I hope it stays that way, sis! I sort of weigh every other or every 3 days….depends on how flat my tummy looks in the AM. It was nice having a quick chat with ya last nite….((()))

Sparkle – thank youfor sharing your Overfeeder story with us. My Dad is an overfeeder (and used to be an overeater but he now weighs 149 at 5’9”) and I had to live with that too – he was always worried that I didn’t eat enough. I think that had a lot to do with the Holocaust mentality. I was never a very overweight child but I was chubby till about age 12 - I am VERY careful with my attitude towards food with my kids. What worries me is that they always know I am dieting in some way or another – I wonder what effect that may have on them? I find financial planningfascinating and it’s one of the things I would have done if I could have done it over. I hope you make people lots of $$!!!

Overcome -= did I congratulate you on reaching goal?If not, congrats! I tell EVERYONE who will listen about this WOE – I feel like I have found the answer to global warming! What a nice DH – I wonder if home meade WW pasta tastes better than boxed, because I still cannot get used to the boxed….

OK, is this enough for today? Now let’s hope it takes!!

Viv
Simsbury, CT
146/136135 fla mini goal/128

Gosh ladies.......all these posts are making me :dizzy: I so enjoy reading whats going on with everyone. Each new post is a new learning experience. I just wish it didn't scare me so from posting. I do have good news to share!!!!!!!!! I am down 2 lbs from last WIW :cool: If any of you remember how the weight loss has been going for me, you will know I feel like I have accomplished a major feat - I AM NOW BELOW 130!!!!!!! :O It truly is a miracle. This past weekend was rather rough trip-wise all the way around. My DH had a terrible time trying to race well. We had a horrible time that began soon after we were on the road. We pull a trailer behind the truck that carries the race car. Well, my DH felt something, we pulled over, only to discover a tire along with the wheel, lugouts etc...just completely broke off!!!! So, the trip just went downhill from there. I am sooo thankful we are back HOME!!!!! It was kinda tough staying OP. A few times it was rough, especially with all of our attitudes and morale at a low. I am so happy to hear so many upbeat stories on the board. And to those of you who are struggling, we all will keep you in our prayers.


Cheri - your post stuck with me about getting your walk done despite the aches.. GOOD FOR YOU. If you can, try taking at least 1 Aleve every day to help with the aches. Also, are you stretching good before AND after your walk??? I have noticed it has helped me. Keep up the good work:D

Debbie- BIG pat on the back with those walks and another move on the steel monster in the RIGHT direction!!!! You are SUCH an inspiration - right gang???? It takes ALL I have to do a mile in 20 minutes. I still feel proud of what I am accomplishing. We all should - APPLAUDING EVERYONE

Ok, I better stop it here before I get the disconnecteroo :lol:

I hope there will be lots of GREAT news where the steel monsters are concerned ;)

This is how I want to look in the future :D ~~~~~~~

Just a quick message to say hello and happy Wednesday!

Since 2/4/01 - 15 lbs! (Yes I did the happy dance this morning after I tried on a 11/12 junior outfit that a girlfriend gave me and it fit!!)

My payroll deadline is looming and my teachers's must get paid - so I have to run. I'm thinking of all of you and printed out your posts so I can read them on my lunch. I will try to post early tomorrow morning.

Lara

Hello everyone!

Congratulations to:

Rosalie on your 2 lb loss. That's terrific. Before you know it you'll be at your goal. :dizzy:

Kim on your 4 lb loss. Definitely count it. You had to count it when you gained it back, so.... it should count now :)

Debstahl: 7 lbs loss. Wow! And just since Monday. Keep it up. :spin:

Karen: 1 pound. Every pound lost is a pound toward your goal. Keep it up.

Susan: Sounds like you have everything under control. You're holding your loss, "that's a good thing" (as Martha Stewart would say) :)

Viv: It is so great that you are able to hold and not gain with the problems in your life right now. I commend you. Also, you and your family are still in my prayers. "With God's help, all things are possible"

Amseraphim: Congratulations on the 2 lb loss. and the fact that you are below 130. That's great. The last time I was ever even near that was 26 years ago when I got married. I weighted 135.

Idblond: 15 pounds and 11/12. Oh the memories. Congratulations. It must feel awsome!

Debbie: I think it's so great that you have finally gotten the scale to go down again. You are so patient and good with this WOE. I don't know if I could have been as good with it as you have been. Of course that's how you got to where you are today. (And that's probably why I'm where I'm at today).

Ok now I guess I'm going to have to fess up. I weighed in this morning. I was so excited to get on the scales because I have been making sure that I drink my water and have been walking my 2 miles. Well..... I'm up 4.5 pounds. I think I'm going to have to blame it on the "dookey" thing :D I'm certainly not giving up. It's just another day in the life of a Sugar Buster :)

Everyone have a great day!

Cheri
287/273.5/278 :cry: /145

Happy WIW Everyone:)

Hope the scales are good to everyone. Just wanted to check in and say hi. I'm still at 137 and holding steady on maintenance.

Thought I would give a tip to measure if you are at a healthy weight. This past week in Parade Magazine it stated that if your waist is less than 35 inches you are at a healthy weight for you body type.

For those who are struggling, remember that we have all struggled. I started at 222 and it took me 15 months to get to goal. There were weeks of no weight loss and even months where I would be 5-10 pounds heavier than the month before. Just REMEMBER you can do this. Making up your mind and following this WOE is the key to success. Also, remember we are here for you and it is ok to share your frustrations not just your successes. You should have seen the posts from Debbie and me several months ago when we just stalled completely out and couldn't get the scale to move. So remember we care and want to help you be a success.


See you later,

Anna
222/137/140

Just thought I would pop in again. WOW, twice in the same day:P

Well, I have not made it yet to any HFSs around here. I have been able to find a few things at Krogers. I bought some sweet potato chips, and found some NSA ketchup.....wooweeeee. I really need to go on an adventure sometime and see what awaits me at a HFS.

Have I mentioned that I am in a wedding March 31?? That was one of the few motivating factors for me choosing this WOE. Well, I had to have my dress altered some ;) I had to drop by yesterday and try dress on to see how seamstress did. Well, it's a tad tight through the bust area and through the rib area. I am going to work really hard from here on out. I feel like I can get some smaller by then. Say some prayers for me :^:

Lara - Big congrats on that 15lb loss since 2/4. I am impressed. It has taken me 2 1/2 months to lose 12.

Cheri - Thanks for the compliment on my loss :)

Anna - Those words of support were good to read. Thanks for the encouragement.

Guess I better head in the direction of the kitchen and wave a magic wand :lol:

Hi all,

I haven't really read many posts yet, but I liked someone's idea to print them out and read them in between other odd jobs. I believe I will do that, just as soon as I put my new ink cartridge in this silly printer.

I had gained back 4 pounds from not busting sugar...today I had lost one of those after only 2 days of strict watchfulness. This WOE shouldn't be so effective--it's like magic.

I am making crawfish etouffee from the cookbook "SUGARFREE QUICK AND EASY" by Deanie Comeaux Bahan. I don't know if you have discussed that cookbook, but it really is easy and everything I have made is good. Yes, I have finally agreed that whole grain flour CAN make a decent roux! My fella is coming over to eat, he also busts sugar most of the time. But you know how single men are...they really don't mind grabbing a burger and fries.

My best news: I got a position teaching first grade at the best school in town for next year!! I am at a very low performing school right now, and this will be like a new lease on life. I have always taught at-risk students, and have become a little burned out. So I am extremely excited. We only have 9 more weeks of school for this year.

Gotta go, I'm going to read all your posts later.

EVENING EVERYBUDDY :D

Far be it from me to question the ONE EYED MONSTER, but the little devil says I've lost 5.9lbs!
WOOOOOO HOOOOO

CHRIS: I found the gif I've been trying to send from work. I'll attach it at the end. Please don't think that I think you look like this woman, the chips are what I'm looking at!

ANOTHER new developement in the mysterious case of not being able to reply from work saga. I can reply to other forums.....JUST NOT SUGAR BUSTERS Am I confused? You bet I am....

GATOR: Our B'Ball coach resigned today!

BEACH: I have a friend who lives in Oneata (sp?) (can't say it either!) and it was featured on the Weather Channel today showing the snow! Did you get more?

AMS: If you haven't been to the NEW KROGER over on Johnson Ferry Road...YOU'VE GOT TO GO!! I was amazed...they have everything...a LARGE selection of HF'S too...

Better throw Skeeter a morsal or two...He's sitting here gazing at me!

I'll check in later

BOB

I believe it is time for another WIW Rap!

"It's Weigh-In-Wednesday, time to get on the scale,
Gain or lose, you'll be able to tell,
Eat right and be smart without cheating,
And you’re gonna lose weight with this way of eating!"
Peace Out! :smoking:

I am pleased to announce that I am no 1/2 way to my goal weight! :smug:

Peace,
Frog

190/160/130
(30 down, 30 to go!)

And this is what I feel like doing!

Hi Friends :o)

It looks like you are all doing great! Me... well some days real good and others not quite. But I'm responsible for my own actions. I need to get motivated and start losing for the upcoming trip to see the inlaws. I am feeling pretty good about myself, just hate it when I have a craving and act on it!

I haven't been around for awhile, but will try to visit daily, if ds gives me equal time on the puter. LOL...

Have a great night, talk to you later...

Cathy in Ohio

Good evening everyone :)

Deb, congatulations on the walk yesterday and on being so close to goal. You will be wearing those jeans very soon. You'd better get the price tags off. And thanks for posting that Tuesday tip. I know what a difference it makes if I get my exercise in first thing in the morning. It is so easy to keep putting it off because there are other things to do, or it's lunch time, or it is too soon after lunch or breakfast, etc.

Overcome, I know the question about the flours wasn't directed to me but I checked out the Hodgson Mills web site. The unbleached flour would not be legal as it has had the bran and the germ removed so is not 'whole wheat'. I'm not sure about the White Whole Wheat Flour as it doesn't say that it is Stone Ground. The only legal wheat flour I see listed is the Whole Wheat Graham Flour and the Whole Wheat Pastry Flour. Both of these are described as Stone Ground. I've sent an e-mail to Hodgson Mills asking about the White WW Flour, whether the bran and germ is retained and if it is stone ground. Hope they respond.

Gator, I'm doing fine thanks, and thanks for asking. It is strange being alone after being together for over 30 years but dh was ill for over two years so for him it was a release. I'm glad I still have a son at home. I would find things much more difficult if he wasn't around. I'm trying to keep busy. I'm working a bit more, I wasn't able to work more than a couple of days a week during the last couple of years. I'm also getting involved in other activities like badminton and aquafit classes.

Debstahl, I am eagerly awaiting your chili recipe. I have tried a couple that are on the board which turned out very good but I am always willing to try another new one.

Fillise, I like what you said about knowing the difference between being 'satisfied' and 'stuffed'. I can really relate to that. I always used to eat the bread that came before the meal and when the meal came I would feel full about halfway through so wouldn't get the same enjoyment from the meal as I would have done without the bread. Now I try to avoid eating the bread.

Cheri45, that was a great story about your friend. I think it proves the point that 'we are what we eat.'

Starchaser, I wouldn't worry about the burger. I don't think once in a while would do any harm, as long as you don't make a habit of it. As long as you can get right back on track. I used to eat a burger once in a while from my favourite hamburger joint but they recently changed their french fries to those coated things and I haven't fancied one since. It was the fries that I craved once in a while, the hamburger was secondary. Maybe it is a good thing they changed!

Sparklescamp, congratulations on cutting out the cigarettes. It's not easy but IT CAN BE DONE. I smoked for many years but gave it up about 12 years ago and felt much better for it. When you feel the urge to smoke try telling yourself "I Don't Smoke". It may sound kind of silly but this is one of the things we were told during a group hypnotherapy session I went to and this stopped me on many occasions. There were many occasions when I would think about having a cigarette (although I didn't have any around). After smoking for so long there were many situations when I would automatically think about having a cigarette, for instance whenever I would sit down to read a paper or a book or a letter. But I would have to stop and tell myself "I Don't Smoke". It stopped me running out to buy a package. In the past when I had tried to quit before that's what I would have done.

Annette, I am sure no one is getting tired of you. The reason we are all here is to support each other. If we didn't need the support we wouldn't be here. I'm sure if you continue with this woe you will lose eventually. For some of us it just takes a little longer. Have you been assessed by your doctor recently regarding the medication? And don't worry about the sourdough bread. It is considered legal.

Beachfan, hope the weather is better for you to-day. I think we are all sick of the snow this winter. Everyone seems to have had so much more than usual. But hang in there, spring has to arrive sometime soon.

Cherei45, congratulations on that walk yesterday. I hope your back and foot are feeling better to-day.

Kim, you were asking about jelly. I don't use jelly but I use Smucker's 100% Fruit Spread. This is the nicest fruit spread I have tasted and it is sweetened with grape juice, with no other additives. My understanding is that the fruit rule refers to fresh fruit only. If the fruit is cooked then it is allowed with other foods. I don't have any more painting projects planned at this time. The only part of this project that I did was take the old wallpaper off. My ds did the rest. My dd was going to help me with the painting but ds decided he may as well finish it as that was the easiest part after he had done all the preparation.

Well I had better go and see about supper. I'm also heading out to play badminton. Maybe supper can wait until after the badminton.

I'll have to finish going through the posts later. The board has been so active lately. I still haven't gotten through most of to-days posts.

Will check in again later.

Marie.
235/203/190

Hi everyone! Thanks for all the support! I really needed it!

I printed out the board, just since Monday, today at work and got 29 pages!!! Geez, we are all busy bees!

Karen: Congrats on your pound. I am not weighing in today - still up from a bad week! Vacations are a great incentive aren't they!

Barb: Thank you for all your support last night! I definitely needed it! I hope the rest of your evening went well.

Did: Thanks for the encouragement! After reading several other peoples versions too, I am going to do just that... dust myself off and begin again. I have that saying "nothing tastes as good as it feels to be thin" on my fridge.

Quilter: Congrats on the 4 pounds! I think wet hair is definitely heavy, but not that heavy... I cracked up at your message yesterday about the breakfast and wet hair! Tee Hee

DebStahl: I am glad to hear you are feeling better! Way to go on the seven pounds! The lunch idea sounds great! Lunch is hard for me too as I am at work and don't feel like packing in the morning, but I think I will try your idea and pack at night.

Star: Sounds like you have peace of mind and that is what is important. I agree with DebStahl.. I think that I waited too long to cheat a little and then went on a binge!

Sparkle: I am an Alanon from way back and am thinking very seriously about trying OA. I miss the support of the 12 steps and I don't get myself to Alanon anymore because I no longer live with drinkers.

Rose: Great job - 2 pounds in a week. Did you start losing that fast right away or did it take a while. Just curious. Barb told me that it took her a while to start dropping. Badminton sounds great. I used to love it when I was a kid.

Deb: Hi lady! I can't get that kitty joke to load for everyone, can you try to post it - I just thought it was sooo cute.

Gator: Thank you for your support; It really meant a lot to me! Geez, a Gator supporting a Lion... what would they think in Gainesville.... tee hee!

Well, I am off to church... sorry that I didn't get a chance to write to everyone... maybe later...

Love you all, Annette

Good Wednesday Evening Everyone!:wave:

If I could wish for a day to be beautiful, it would be just like the one we have today-it is just soooo beautiful here! The temperatures dipped a little and gave us lows last night in the 60's-today is a high of 75 or there about. Just a picture perfect day.

Got my walk in early this morning since Michael got picked up. Another great walk, not as fast as yesterday, but my second fastest walk, just 15 seconds longer than yesterday. Come tomorrow, I think I'll just be walking at my regular pace.

Well, it's WEIGH IN WEDNESDAY!!!:o The scale is up from yesterday, so I'm at 134 today. From last week, it's a loss, but honestly, I'm at the same exact weight I was 1 month ago! So, no cigar here, and no posting on the Weight Loss Board, not til I get under this number. Sharon is so funny, she says that I'm walking like a mad woman and not losing, and here she is not losing and not walking-she'd rather do it this way than kill herself and walk and have no losses. Really, I'm not worried at all, I KNOW the scale will go down. I hope you all have a good WIW today!

Will tomorrow being a major day for me, I just hope and pray my weight stays put or goes down-please, pray to the Diet Godess for me!:^:

Thanks to all of you who have already e-mailed me with some ideas for future polls. If you haven't done so as yet, please let me know if you have any ideas via e-mail. Also, this weeks chat is scheduled for tomorrow night at 9:15pm, so please try to attend.

I ran around with Sharon today-for those of you following the "SHARON SAGA" her husband got served with divorce papers last night. He was suppose to get them Monday, but for some unknown reason, the server went to his job and didn't get to give them to him. She spend last night and Monday night here-she's going home tonight, which I worry about. It seems it's going to be a nasty fight. He cut off her cell phone which was under his name-this is just the beginning it seems:(

FILLISE, hope your weather has improved by today. Amazing that it's snowing so far south-you and BEACHFAN both deserve some nice warm sunshine! You sure are right about the scales being up and down, but at least on a lower level. Be happy when you lose or stay the same, it's when we gain we have a license to B*TCH! Okay, so being women, we have a license to B*TCH without any restrictions or expirations!!

CATS, glad you came "on board" to say hello. I know it's not always easy to find time to get on for people, but a quick hello is always appreciated and welcomed!! Thanks for the polling questions!

CHERI, thanks for sharing that story about your friend! I truly believe that all the refined products and synthetic ingredients wreck havoc in our systems. Since I've been on SB, I've really become intuned more with what I'm eating and what's in what I'm eating. That is wonderful she was able to get off meds and get into walking! Congrats on walking despite how you are feeling-you go girl-literally! Don't worry about being up, it's dookie, or hormones, water weight, full moon, but definitely not FAT! Just be patient. You'll see the scale go back down.

ROSALIE, I have some dishes in the sink, care to come down and do mine??;) CONGRATS on the 2lb loss!!!! Your patience has paid off, way to go! Hope you had fun at your badmiton game. I'll get those tags off those pants soon!!!

DEBSTAHL, sounds like you are having some rough times with all the things going on-the septic tank sounds like a real "stinker" of a problem:s: CONGRATS on your loss. Just keep tabs on yourself so you can keep that sick weight down. You lunch sounds yummy-I love pita bread and use it mostly to make SB legal pizzas. Great about the HFS, let me know if you find anything interesting!!!

STAR, congrats on getting that walk in despite your back, that's a great feeling, isn't it?!? What's wrong with a hamburger? As long as you don't have the bun, or you use a WW bun, what's the problem?? Either way, don't let it consume you in any way, it does no good. Many would say I'm obsessed with this WOE-so, what's their point?:lol:

VR, happy to hear you aren't in the part of the state with the heat wave. Though I guess you are getting those black outs. You have the electric problems, we have the water problems. It's always something. RUB IT IN! UGGHHH! How I wish I could of been with you at TJ's. Glad you found that tomato splash-it's delicious when Eli makes it with chicken-I want him to bring home 6 jars of that stuff, at least! I think I better send him with an extra suitcase. Sorry, no input on a guinea pig-though they are cute, I've never had experience with them.

BIGO, WOW GIRL! What have you been eating, or not eating?? Way to go on that tremendous loss! Lucky you!!! I'm jealous! One loss like that and I'd be at goal! Hmmm, that is strange that now you can't post again-let me know what Suzanne says, or if you need some help getting through to her. I absolutely LOVE the latest gif!!!! Oh yes, Sharon just walked in the room, and I told her about your loss, she says CONGRATS, you female dog you!!!! (okay, I was trying to make it less vulgar).

SPARKLE, I know OA isn't for everyone, but whatever works for you, that's what you do! We all have to deal with this issue in our own ways. Some people find their strength through religion, family, friends, meetings and even this board. It's just important that you do something to better your life and the way you feel, that's most important, even before the weight loss. It seems you've made great strides in your life, just continue on, you're doing great! To relieve some stress, why not treat yourself to a massage, or a manicure/pedicure-I personally love foot rubs-they tend to put me to sleep on the couch and eventually sleep like a baby.

JANCAN, sounds like where you run is beautiful. Not like where I walk, on busy main streets inhaling lovely car exhaust!:eek: And not to mention, dodging idiot drivers who don't pay attention! Congrats on being down another pound! Finn Crisps and you rock!

BEACH, we'd love for you to come live in Florida-we need more Americans down here! :lol: You would just love being here today-it's so beautiful! Glad to hear you are still holding strong-that's great. Thanks for reminding me about those old posts-it enforces why I don't give up, that there is a brighter side around the corner when you are patient.

ANNETTE, I wish I could send you my weight chart from the last month. Like you, I was up and down. Exactly 1 month ago I weighed the exact same weight as today-this happens, but you just need to be patient and get through these times, the scale will move. It's much easier to give in than continue the fight. Don't let others successes get you down, it's not easy for any one of us, but as each of us are so different it takes a different amount of time to lose what we want. Just stick it out, and I promise, you will lose the weight. It's up to you to decide how to go about it-like I've said before, when you are going to eat something off plan, ask yourself, would I rather have this, or stay on plan and be strong-only you can decide. ON THE OTHER HAND, don't you realize that once you start to lift weights, you are going to gain muscle and that could be a reason you gained?? This is why I won't lift weights until I get down BELOW GOAL!!! Oh my, 29 pages, and it's only on page 2, that's scary!!!

BUNNY, gosh how I wish I had a lemon tree!! We use them A LOT in our home, you have no idea!!! Lucky you. You could make the syrup with agave nectar, I bet it would be delicious! I have no idea why you don't have the option to click on SMILIES when you reply. It should be there. If you continue to have trouble let me know and I will contact Suzanne.

KAREN, Congrats on the loss!!! Thanks for that Real Age tip-didn't know that about the flouridated water. I should drink our water, but I don't, drink more bottled water, easier to cart around and take with me in a pinch.

QUILTER, congrats on the loss-you go girl!! Don't ask how or why, just take it and be happy. In all actuality, you shouldn't post a loss that you gained back. That's why I haven't been posting my loss on there-just not too fair. Soon you will be doing so, like me, I hope!!! I use the Jok n Al brand (made in New Zealand). It's actually low carb and made with Splenda. I use only a teaspoon, whereas a Tbl is 10 calories, I think. It's really good. I was happier yesterday than today about the scale, but hey, I know it will go up and down for the rest of my life and it's just a numbers game I have to play with and understand. BTW, Maddie is beautiful!

MELF, that's great to hear you are getting 3.3 mile walks in when you are able, that's a good distance. I got your e-mail, just haven't had time to reply to all my e-mails yet-have to fight for time on the computer lately-I hate it!:mad:

OVERCOME, glad to hear your dinner went well, and Pete making fresh pasta, well, geez! What a guy! I would tend to say Stone Ground White WW Flour is fine, but the other one isn't. I've read about it, but haven't been able to find any locally, so will check out their site next time I need some WW flour.

RHROO, hope you got to weigh in, and I hope the scale was kind to you.

VIV, just think positively about your Dad, and stop fretting over What Ifs. It does no one any good. When you get results back, then you can deal with it, but worrying just doesn't help the situation and all parties involved. You've been looking forward to this trip, don't let this put a damper on things if you can help it. Yep, I'm a shorty and yes, when I get to my original goal, I plan to take it down 5lbs more. It may take me 6 months, but that's okay if it does, I just want to get the next 5lbs off of my by the end of April/Mid-May if possible. Got the info about the manicure. I'll take my kids, or at least Lauren shopping up that way since they are out of school and meet you-we'll get all the particulars done when I have a free minute on the computer.

AMSER-CONGRATS on your loss-2lbs is great!! You must be so happy getting below 130, I hope to be saying that in the next month or two. Every milestone is a big deal! Sorry to hear things didn't go as planned for your trip. I'd like to look like that in the future too-blond!! LOL!!! I'm sure you will look stunning in the dress for the wedding!!

LDBLOND, 15lbs in about 1 1/2 months is awesome-way to go. Getting into a 11/12 junior-what can I say-that's wonderful! I'll e-mail you with the zuchiini recipe later.

MARGARET, glad to hear you are down a pound. It will continue to go down as you continue to follow this WOE-just remember, not to get discouraged at the times you may go up, it just happens for no reason sometimes. Other times, you'll know the reason. Hope your dinner comes out well, sounds delicious! I think I have that book-I have too many to remember if I do or not. I have a collection of cookbooks, and I hate to cook-go figure. Congrats on getting that new position next year!!!

FROG, you are too funny! I loved the little jingle! Congrats on being down half way to goal. How much was the loss for you this week??

CATHY, you can do it, and as you said, you just need to put your mind up to it. Don't do it just for the trip to the in-laws, do it because you really WANT to do it. For yourself. Trust me, it doesn't work for other reasons.


Gotta run, Survivor is soon to come on! Lets pray Jerri is given a nice swift kick in the rear off the island tonight!! I;ll try to check in later this evening if possible.

Please remember, TOMORROW IS RECIPE DAY AND TOMORROW NIGHT IS CHAT AT 9:15PM EST

Have a wonderful evening!

Debbie
194/134/129
Miami, FL

Ooooh fellow busters, I just had to tell you what I'm eating right now. I stopped at the store and bot a "mess of greens" (I have no idea what kind they are and cooked them up with the Wiley's season. Mmmmmmmgood. I'll tell you what . . . when ORANGE tells you something is deeee-licious, believe her. I am really enjoying them. Not really sure if they are done, but they've been cooking for at least an hour. AND made my wonderful Salmon patties tonight and instead of using cracker or bread crumbs, I threw in some puffed Kashi. They also turned out really well.

Now I'm going to go read and post, but just had to tell you about my oh-so scrumptious meal.

BBL
Kim

I’m back. Well, the dinner was really great. I love eating a wonderful meal and having NO GUILT upon finishing it. Can you imagine what great meals we’d come up with if we were all to meet in one huge kitchen. Now that would be one noisy, fun place!

Survivor was a big let down tonight. I knew it was going to be a rehash of previous shows, but please. Do you think the sponsors were pleased with Jerri’s song? Did you hear her say Fiona Apple sings in my key??? Oh GAWD, for all the millions who are in alliance with me on this one . . . GET OVER YOURSELF!!!!! I swear I’m going to stop watching. It’s really getting under my skin.

DEBSTAHL---Thanks for the lunch idea. Your warm sandwich sounds yummy. I think I’ll have to copy it. Do you ever put any veggies on it? I might have to add some wacko veggies like cukes or sprouts or even a pale winter tomato. Thanks for giving us the brand name on that pita. Hey, a misplaced neighbor!!! I’m so glad to hear you are from here. It’s a great place to live. When you’re here in June, let me know if you have time to meet for a coffee. We could go to Starbucks in honor of Deb and Eli. I know you’ll have tons of family to see while you are here, but if you find yourself with some free time, let me know. That would be so much fun. If we do get together, we could go to Wild Oats and shop for goodies that you may have trouble finding in Guam. Good luck with the job hunt. You’ll do really well. I have a feeling about it.

KAREN---Thanks for the email . . .you are so sweet. And congrats on the loss. You are wise to “dig in” before vacation. That’s what I should have done. Please learn from my mistake! Ha!

DIDJA---I hear you talking abou the capris. I tried on at least a million pairs (well maybe just 10) before I found ones that looked good on me. I bought two pairs and fear that I shrunk one pair in the dryer. Boo hoo. Bad cotton!!!!

VIV---Congrats on the weight!!! I’d really love to be sitting on that same number with you right now. But I know you’ll get to goal an dwait for me to meet you there. Right? Survivor is a bunch of old clips tonight that we haven’t seen before. I’m wishing that I don’t watch it, but will probably turn it on anyways. I’d rather read posts and write messages that waste my time with those people. But I feel like I’ll miss something if I don’t watch.

AMSERAPHIM--Congrats on losing two more pounds! That’s great. But sorry to hear about your rough weekend. So glad nobody was hurt and that you all made it home safe and sound. I agree with you . . . DEB is simply the BEST leader and encourager and role model for us. You are so right in singing her praises!!! And I’ll keep my fingers crossed for you and the bridesmaid dress. You can do it . . . just keep downing that water like crazy. You’ll pee away enough to make the dress looser.

BLOND---You have every right to do the beloved happy dance. You are literally working your buns off. You should be very proud of yourself. Way to inspire the rest of us.

CHERI---I would definitely vote for the “dookie” as being the cause of the upswing. Why not try getting on tomorrow morning and see if there’s a difference. I am really getting into this idea of weighing every morning. So far it’s kept me in complete control for two whole days. And that’s really good for me. I’ll bet if you get back on tomorrow some of the will be gone. And I’m so glad that you said you aren’t giving up!!! That is truly the best part of your post. You’ve got such a winning philosophy that I am so sure you will get to your goal!!!!!

BEACH---It’s so good to hear that maintenance is going well for you. Thanks for your pep talk. Your words of encouragement mean so much to me and I know to everyone else. Thank for really looking out for us and for really remembering what we are going through. Please promise to never leave the board until each of us is at goal. Okay?

MARGARET---Way to go on the new job!!! That sounds so exciting. You will have a GREAT summer looking forward to your new position.

ORANGE---5.9 pounds. You are truly THE QUEEN!!!! That is so wonderful . . . I think I’ve just been rendered speechless. Did you do anything different this week from the past week? If so, spill it, sister!!! I sure hope you didn’t cheat this week, because DEB will be really feeling the injustice! Ha!!!!! Did you and Sir Skeeter do the happy dance????

FROG---Loved the rap. You have definitely got some untapped talent. Congrats on being half way there. What a huge accomplishment!! Are you breathing a sigh of relief that you are halfway there?

CATHY---I’m glad you are back. And glad that you feel good about yourself and your efforts. Keep it up! And remember the mantra that was said earlier in the week, “I AM STRONGER THAN ___________(insert the food that’s giving you problems).” That has worked for me more than once this week and I’m so thankful to whoever said it. I need to go back and re-read the posts to properly thank the wise person.

ROSALIE---Thanks for the advice on the jelly!! I’ll have to try it. AND if we can have cooked fruits with other things, what’s wrong with making a pie with ww crust???? Am I dreaming here???? That would be wonderful. Thanks for the tip. I’ll be excited about this for a while and THEN somebody will come on and say “nope, no PIE!” But until then, I’ll have fun planning for it. How’s the badminton going? Have you spiked the birdie into anybody’s face yet? Just kidding. I know you’d never do that.

ANNETTE---Sounds like you are having a much better day today. Remember that you have a ton of friends right here who are really pulling for you to succeed. We will all get through this TOGETHER. Way to keep your head up!!! Somedays are definitely harder than others.

DEB---Can I have an “amen” on the footrubs idea. I LOVE THEM and make poor Paully give me one practially every night of the week. I agree that they are an immediate stress reliever. Also a hand rub can be a wonderful thing. I’ll stop there before I get too personal. You were talking about being the same weight as you were last month, but I have one thing to say. Remember how sick you’ve been? I think the fact that it took practically FOREVER to get rid of that gunk had a terrible reaction on the scale. Your body was all out of wack and now that you’re feeling better, it will start up again. Plus the closer you get to goal, the more stubborn the pounds are. They need that extra little nudge to “leave the premises.” Did you get the Jok n Al at WO or TJs? I agree, Maddie is quite the pretty one. Pity she doesn’t have a good personality to go along with it. Just like the homecoming queens of our pasts (sorry if any board members were h.q.’s . . . i’m not talking about you . . . honest!) I’m glad I didn’t post on the weight loss board. I thought it made sense to not re-count that in the grand total of things.

That’s it for me. Already after 10 and I’m just now finishing the posts. Have to go clean up the kitchen. Where’s ROSALIE when I need her????

Take care.
Kim
185/176/139

Hey everyone! You are all a bunch of BIG LOSERS!!!! ;)
I am real proud of all of you who hung in there and just DID IT!!! Dosn't it feel great??????? I myself didn't get to a offical scale or time to weigh today but work has one and i had shoes on bla bla it was at night bla bla went to lunch with Hubby bla bla and after i took of some LBS for the big lug boots i am the same - I think! :smug: LOL Even so I have excersised all week-gotten alot of BUTT comments and so on!!!
I was reading my Walking Mag. for this month and it was depressing. Obisety is the 2nd leading killer now i guess. This article talked about Diabeates being an epidemic.....my mom has it and its a major reason for my weight loss and for me keeping it off forever. Anyway this article said that if your at risk for getting it -if you have it in the family then a BMI of 23 -25 is what you want also that your more at risk if you had babies over 9 lbs. Just a few factors.....I think at 135 my goal my bmi is going to be 25 hmmmm.....people think i am to thin now then what if i go below? My two boys where over 9 lbs at birth.....hmmmm. And like i said Mommy has it. It also talked about excersise and how important it is I hope you all start to think about working your bodys now that spring is here. I hear alot of excuses from people I know around me at work and you just gotta do it. This article said 40-60 min 5x a week! I thought at goal i could find an ammount of excersise that i could do that i would still maintain my weight -mannnnnn! i won't get out of it huh? :nono:
Enough ranting!!!!!!!! I was just alittle depressed but more determined to get to goal and stay there for my kids, me -and my mom to show her she can do it too!!

VIV- sorry about my poor posting i think its due to the 12:00 a.m time that i post -very sleepy! Your doing good with that chocolate! keep it up and hope your doing better -I agree Don't :smoking: its nasty!

Deb-congrats on the walk! Tomorrow will be a hard day for me -my best friend is going to court for her divorce and i am the hand holder. I talked to her tonight and she was very emotional i think she is starting to morn. I am having a hard time because i have not been through anything like that, but i am supporting her. She is the one that has lost over 80lb since she kicked him to the curb sooooooo tell Sharon she can do it too. I think i sent you the web page she has made. I am so proud of her. They both will make it we just gotta be there for them. Does Sharon have children?? Keep up the great work and thanks for the motivation you give us!

Cheri- I was laughing all day at your dookey comment! i kept thinking of the Limp Bisket song ( i have a teen ager and a hubby in a band!) I did it all for the nookie is a song -i was singing "I blame it all on the dooky yeah the dookey!" you gave me a giggle! :lol: you have an awsome attitude! you go girl!

Beach-i have to take my measurments again-i don't think i am 35 inches but i am losing alot in my waist-no waist no butt no boobs! LOL You are right -my favorite quote "its not a race its a journey!"

BOB-WOOOOOOOO HOOOOOOOO :D thats awsome! where was that stuck???? did ya do the dookey thing!!! Patience has paid off girl!!! You are my idol!!!!

Frog-WOOO HOOOO on the half way point!!! Feels good huh?!

Well gotta go get my beauty sleep-another strom is brewing outside might have to leave early for the court house. Thanks for he motivation everyone.

Rhonda
201.2/143/135

Thank you for your warm welcome.


Answer to Deb's question:
Stress, overtime at work, bad back and no motivation may have caused my pit-fall.
I lost 55 in 12 weeks. I have gained back 10 and have not lost any in four months.
I have been unable to exercise for one month due to an old injury. I was eating
great until I had virtually no time to prepare meals. I'm usually gone about 14 hours
each day.

So, for me, exercise is Number One, food is Number Two, stress is Number Three. I know
what to do, I just need ENCOURAGEMENT.

I will read your posts and gather ideas and learn.

Thank you very much!!!!!!!!!

Hugs, one more time

Hi All~ Or should I say "GOOD MORNING"...

Well you're right Deb I should do it for me not for someone else. But it makes me more determined to do it before vacation, because the last time I saw my MIL she was rude enough to take a picture of my "BIG" backside and then had the gall to give me the picture...But anyway, I love wearing a smaller size(went from a 20 to a 14 so far).

Well I just wanted to wish you all a wonderful thursday. The end of the week is nearing...

I'll check back later after work!

God Bless~
Cathy in Ohio

Just got on to see if anything happened after I went to bed.

CATHY---when you told your sizes I literally gasped. What a wonderful thing to go down that many sizes! You must feel great. I can't wait to get into a size 14. I have so many things in boxes upstairs that are 14's and some even still have the tags on them. So if I were you, I'd stick my size 14 fanny in every picture your MIL takes. If she is so focused on it, then let her have it, girl!!!! Have a great vacation. After all the hard work you have put in, you deserve it.

RHROO---Your blah, blahs made me laugh . . . and I'm hardly awake.

Scales stayed the same this morning. That's okay, I'm gearing up for a drop this weekend. We are going out Saturday night and am committed to going to a restaurant where I can get a SB favorable meal. Wish me luck. Also going to see that movie with the word dragon in the title. Something crouching????? Anybody see it yet? Heard it had action and a true love story. A perfect date movie.

Have a great day, y'all!!!
Kim
185/176/139

Y'all are doing GREAT!

I was so excited about posting yesterday that I forgot to say that my loss for last week was 3 pounds!!

Hope to be able to read all the posts and catch up!

I will try to get on for the chat tonight! Hope to see you all online!

Peace,
Frog

Good morning all

Just a quickie before I get on with my 2 mile walk (video) and get supper started. Had crockpot suppers twice last week and going to make a Crockpot Garbanzo Stew to-day.

Quilter, Fruit pies are legal as long as the crust is made with SGWW flour. I don't usually make pies but I love the APPLE BROWN BETTY that Deb posted a while ago. This has a topping of oatmeal and wheatgerm. Yummy. I've seen the movie CROUCHING TIGER, HIDDEN DRAGON. I think this is the one you are referring to. It is a really lovely movie. I enjoyed it very much.

Must go and start walking before I decide I need to eat breakfast first.

Marie :)

Morning Everybuddy,

Ok, Kim I tried what you said, and so far so good. I removed the automatic cookie and signed in with my
home name.
YOU ARE SOOOOOOOOO SMART!!

Ok, I've got a confession to make.....I LIED ABOUT MY WEIGHT LOSS
I got on the scales this morning and I guess in reality,
I really only lost 4.9 NOT 5.9 I'll take that too I sat down and "ciphered" everything out and boy was my face red!!!! SORRY

I was SO READY for JERRI to be booted...Didn't know it was a flash back show until I started watching. I think she will get it next week. I know that Rodger HAS to be
coming up for departure, I sure do want him to beat Jeri!

I better get to work....

BOB

I'll post more later, but I have two quick questions. I picked up a package of unsweetened carob chips. I tasted them - ick! Anyone have an suggestions, like maybe melt them and add a legal sweetener? Second question, at the same time I got some chocolate roasted bean chips that are not sweetened with refined sugar. The label indicates cane crystals as the sweetener. Anyone know if this would be legal, since it is unrefined? Also, awhile back there was discussion about cane juice. Did anyone ever determine if that was legal, as I see a lot of foods at the HFS using that? I guess that's 3 questions, sorry.

Thanks for the education if anyone knows the answer.

Karen

Good Thursday Morning Everyone!:wave:

Another glorious day today-it's so beautiful here, if every day was like this I could learn to love Miami!!!

I have a NEW BEST WALKING TIME!!!! I said I was going to take my walk at my normal pace today, then got out there and said "what the heck" and started pounding the pavement-beat my best time by 14 seconds, which doesn't sound like much, but for me it is. My new best time was 58 minutes 18 seconds!!!!:smug: I'm feelin good!

Well, today is really an important day for me it's my 1 YEAR SB ANNIVERSARY!!!!! I just wanted to take this time and thank each and every one of you, whether you are new to our board or have been with us for months. Without each of your presence and input on this board, there wouldn't be a board, and I probably would not have been able to celebrate this day. You all have kept me going on the straight and narrow road towards my goal. I've said this in the past, which I repeat often, that staying on this WOE for this long, without cheating is more incredible to me than the weight loss. Also, following this WOE has also given me the strength in resisting eating out of emotions.

For those of you who are newer to the board, you should know that I have always been fat, since I was a baby. Being short didn't help matters. I have vivid memories of things in my life since elementary school having happened to me just for being the "fat girl" Being sung, "fatty fatty two by four", being beaten up in the girls bathroom in 6th grade just for being fat, being dragged to WW with my Grandmother at an early age-this was just the beginning of my problems with my weight.

I tried hard to lose weight, so I'd be liked by friends and family. I would hear from my Grandmother (who is still alive) that I was getting too fat, or she would make rude comments to me. OR, worse yet, she'd go to my parents and ask why they weren't doing something about the problem. None of the diets I was on worked, I ate because I was unhappy, not always because I was hungry. I was in a vicious cycle.

I continued to get fatter through the years. When I got married at 18 1/2 years old, I really ballooned to my highest weight ever. My mother said it seemed like it came on over night. I was 284lbs, and being only 5' 1 1/2 inches tall, it wasn't a pretty sight. I was so unhappy, you have no idea. Not to mention I felt awful and looked much worse. I couldn't even find clothes to fit me. I finally had my stomach stapled in 1984 because I knew I would die if I didn't. I lost weight, big time, but I ended up gaining all but 40lbs back-I didn't deal with the real issues. I had done this for everyone else, not for me.

About 6 years ago that little light bulb that was so dim in my brain finally had a flash of energy and I knew I was ready to lose the weight, for ME! I didn't know what I wanted to do, I had failed at so many other diets in the past, and once I've failed on it, I don't try again, except for WW, and that was only because they kept making it NEW:rolleyes: So, I was at a garage sale and found the Richard Simmons Deal-A-Meal and started that the following Wednesday. I lost my weight and got to my goal. I had one issue I hadn't contended with, and that was my emotional eating. After our trip to Europe and having gained 10lbs because I ate my way through every country, then coming home to have many problems with our pizzeria and employees, I started to eat due to emotions. The one thing I hadn't done something about, though I knew it was a problem. I kept swearing to myself I wouldn't get about 140, then 150, then it was up to 175. I couldn't get a grip on myself. As I began to gain more and more weight, I felt like I was losing control. I did try WW again, and why I don't learn that this plan, no matter how they revise it, just doesn't work for me. Not only did I gain back what I had lost, but then some. Well, 65 pounds later of a gain, and the reality of seeing 200 again:eek: that little light finally gained it's momentum and shined bright in my brain. I felt an energy to take charge of myself once again. And again, I didn't know what I was going to try. I decided to read up on the latest "diets" and looked into whatever was available, spending hours reading, the Schwarzbein Principal, Atkins, CALP, Suzanne Sommers books and Sugar Busters, just to name a few.

I chose SB because it really made so much sense to me. After all the years of cutting fat and calories, and that not working, maybe this book had an idea that was right on the money, for me at least. It seemed healthy, well balanced and I knew I wasn't going to be depriving myself of any one food group. So, this is the plan I chose to follow. Being that I would take chocolate, ice cream and cookies over a well rounded and nutritious meal any day, I knew this WOE was something I would have to do wholeheartedly or not do it at all. Getting through the first 3 days is always the hardest for me, but I made it through with flying colors, and it's been smooth sailing for the past year.

When I started SB, I had envisioned that I would make my goal by October, which of course, didn't happen. As the months went by and I knew this wasn't going to be, it didn't even bother me. I felt good, I was eating healthy, and I had the support of this board. Here I am a year later, still not at goal, but feeling just the same I did all those months ago. I'll get to goal soon, a few more months won't make a big difference one way or another, I've come so far to let that bother me-but I know it's coming!!

I guess what I really wanted to convey to all of you is this CAN work and it does work-it's up to you to make it work. There is no one diet out there that works for everyone, we are so different. BUT, I truly believe that a WOE that is so well rounded works much better than a diet that is more of a fad and puts many restrictions on you.

Again, I just want to say THANK YOU EVERYONE! and here's to the next year!!!!!!

Okay, sorry I got on a roll there....

On the Sharon saga...I got a call last night at midnight, cops where at her house, haven't gotten the full story, she is supposed to call me later this morning after she goes to the courthouse. I know she's fine, but I also knew she shouldn't go home. I'll let you know what's happening. Sorry to bore those of you who don't know what's going on, but others have met her and though she's not on the board, she's also following SB.

QUILTER, I agree, Survivor was a let down, and I'd have much rather of gone to the mall like we had wanted to, but ditched that idea to stay home to watch Survivor. Let's hope Jerri gets the ax next week-she's so evil! Paul is such a good guy like Eli-though Eli has gotten lax on the footrubs lately-he's been working late hours in the evening, so by the time he comes home, I'm dead to the world. I know what you say about the weight and being sick must be true, I'm okay with that, just add another month for me to reach my goal, I figure by mid-May. The jelly I get is from a low-carb store or HFS, but it's a little independent one. They have it on line as well, but if you can find some type of low-carb store in your area, they may carry it there. I love the raspberry and strawberry. Here is their website from NZ, just to give you some info about them: http://www.joknal.co.nz/ and here's one site that sells their jams & jellies: http://www.synergydiet.com/jams.html As for Crouching Tiger movie, it's Michael's favorite movie now, I think he's seen it 5 times-he's dying for me to go see it. I'll wait to see your review of it first. It's really suppose to be wonderful.

RHROO, hope things go well with your friends divorce-I'm sure I will be with Sharon when she goes to court as well. She has an attorney with a wonderful reputation of being a "ball buster" (woman, of course) and I hope she does a great job for her. She has one son, but he's 19 already. I'll give your message to her:)

ONEMORE, WOW, your weight loss in 12 weeks is not only unbelievable, but a bit scary. That's just way to much weight in such a short time. You lost almost what I did in a years time. I just wonder if the gain and the 4 month plateau has something to do with losing too much too fast. Can you share a little more about yourself, like what weight you started SB at, your goal, etc. You haven't gotten your BIO on the BIO BOARD, so I really don't know where you started and where you are going. Would love to learn more about you, as I'm sure all the other gals on the board would. :)

CATHY, I tried to lose weight 2 years ago, (again) motivated by my son's upcoming Bar Mitzvah at the time (Nov. 2000). It didn't work, I just wasn't ready to lose it. Not until I decided it was my "time" did I get on the SB wagon and start losing-you can read that from my too long post above. This of course, is just my opinion and my personal experience. For many, an impending wedding, trip, event of some kind and get someone on the wagon to weight loss and be successful-whatever motivates you do it, but again, making yourself the priority for doing this is the main goal!!! Going down to a size 14 pant is a big victory, keep going and soon I'll have to send YOU those size 6 jeans I have shoved in my drawer!!!

FROG, thanks for letting us know you had a 3lb drop-that's wonderful!!! CONGRATS!!!

ROSALIE, hope you are enjoying your walk today. How's the weather been up there???

BIGO, I'm going to whip you with a wet WW noodle for that lie!:lol: Hey, we all can't be mathematicians! You are forgiven-still a wonderful loss, and one to be quite proud of!!!

KAREN, can you list the ingredients in the carob chips for us?? No sugars are allowed on SB. Cane juice or cane crystals are a big NO NO:nono:

Just got an e-mail from BIGO, where she was able to post earlier, she said she can't now, from work. Hopefully, she'll get this resolved-gosh knows, she needs to get in her "board work" before her "work work", right BIGO? They may think she's having major withdrawls of some kind when she gets the shakes from not being able to post from work!!!
:lol:

I will get on here and post a couple recipes this evening, remember, it's RECIPE DAY!!! If you have any good SB legal recipes you'd like to share with the board, please post them on the MARCH RECIPE BOARD, located at the following link:

http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/showthread.php?threadid=2379

Also, don't forget [b]CHAT TONIGHT AT 9:15PM EST!!!!

That's it for me for now, have to get in the shower and get ready to get Michael soon, early release day down here for the kids, and after I get Lauren, I promised to take her to the mall to Penneys.

See you all on the boards later!! Again, thanks for being such wonderful angels in my life:angel:

Debbie
194/133.5/129
Miami, FL

Morning everyone!

I'm at work, but wanted to take a quick minute to congratulate Debbie for her one year anniversary on SB!

Reading through your post this morning, I can sympathize--been there done that. Tried every diet known to mankind, been up and been down (but mostly up). But you've discovered what we have all had to discover--diets don't work. You have to change your entire attitude, way of life, and your nutritional habits for a lifetime.

I want to thank you for always being such a wonderful inspiration to those of us who are still trying to figure this out, and to change our lives for the better. Your support, your cheerleading and advice really makes a difference to me. I appreciate you--and all my new SB friends on this board!

You go girl!!!!!!

Susan

ps--congratulations to everyone on their weight losses this week! There were some pretty good losers out there this week!

Hello Ladies,

Good Morning All! What a glorious day here in south Louisiana. 2 days of perfect weather!

Deb, thanks for your post, regarding your journey! It made quite an impact on me. Thanks for sharing!

Work has been sorta hectic this past week! Hopefully next week will be back to normal and I can participate on the board more. As, always I appreciate you all!

Okay, I can't stand it any longer, I've got to tell everyone. I'm about to bust a gut!...I WALKED 1 MILE YESTERDAY!!!!YES!!!
HAPPY DANCE...HAPPY DANCE....HAPPY DANCE
Of course I was dragging butt (literally) but I made it back home.

Got a question for you experts out there: I bought some Polanders All Fruit, thinking it was legal! The label reads that the sugar content is "directly from fruit!" I may have been mislead! I havn't eaten any yet. What do you guys think?

Gotta run. Work is calling!
Star

Well, It let me back on....I won't question..but it seems that if I log off and then log back on, it lets me reply.

Deb,
Even though I already know your storey, It still gets me
revved up reading it. CONGRATULATIONS!!
You should be proud of yourself no matter...goal will come...like you tell me, BE PATIENT

You're right about the "board work" a girl has to have priorities!!

Guess I'll try to get just a little something done...

Later
BOB

DEB!!!! CONGRATS ON 1 YEAR BUT MORE IMPORTANTLY ON BEING SUCH A GREAT PERSON!

Can't talk long. I've had one of those "days". Car broke down etc. :( We are suppose to be going on a trip this weekend and now I'm in a dilemma about getting there! Hope it will be fixed.

Quilter: I will stay on the board for a long time. I can't wait for everyone to get to goal and we can talk about maintaining. I really appreciate how kind everyone is on this board and the support they give.

BOB: Congrats on the loss!!! You're doing great. Happy dance for you:)

Rosalie: Glad you are doing ok.

Everyone Else: Stick to it!

See you soon.

Anna

222/137/140

Hi all :)

It's a bright, sunny, beautiful day here. It feels like spring is almost here. :dizzy: The temperature is a balmy 46F. O.K. you gals down south I know you would freeze at this temperature but after putting up with the cold winter temperatures everything above freezing feels like spring.

Deb, thanks for posting your story. It is really inspirational. And congratulations on THE FASTEST WALK and your SB ANNIVERSARY.

Kim, I think you had better find someone else to help with your house chores. I can't even find the time or inclination to do my own most of the time! :D: Too many other things more interesting to do, like being on this board.

Onemoretime, I agree with Deb that was an excessive amount of weight you lost in such a short time. So maybe being on a plateau for a while has been a good thing but I am sure if you stick to this woe you WILL START TO LOSE AGAIN. Could it be that you are now not eating enough? That can sometimes cause our metabolism to slow down and stop the losing. Hope you can find the time to post your BIO so we can get to know you better.

Starchaser, CONGRATULATIONS on that one mile walk. You deserve to do the HAPPY DANCE. If the sugar content is all from fruit in the Fruit Spread I would say it is legal. The spread I use contains only fruit, grape juice and pectin. I prefer to use this one as all the other sf spreads have other junk in them and/or artificial sweeteners which I don't like to use. It also tastes much better than the others.

All for now.

Marie :)

I finally put my chili recipe on the March recipe board! I made it last night...boy, was it yummy! (Plus lots of leftovers for lunches!)

I am getting pretty frustrated with my whole septic situation! The contractor was supposed to fix everything yesterday, but supposedly he didn't get the permit from the Health Dept. until yesterday afternoon (although my "contact" at that office says it was faxed to the contractor on Tuesday afternoon!). SO, now he isn't coming to fix it until tomorrow morning!! ARGH!! I haven't been able to do laundry in over a week...and with 2 small kids, that's a long time!! I did finally break down and run the dishwasher regardless of the circumstances...I was tired of using styrofoam and plastic! We're leaving Sat. to go to St. Petersburg...so after they get done tomorrow (probably around noon), I'll be spending my entire afternoon and evening doing laundry!

OK...enough ranting!

DEBELLI: CONGRATULATIONS on your one-year anniversary! :spin: I never knew your entire story regarding weight loss...you are truly an inspiration!! Great job on the fastest walking time, too! Pretty fitting accomplishment for the day!

QUILTER: It would be great if we could get together when I come to OH -- we'll be there about the last 2 weeks of June. Great idea about the food shopping, although I'm not sure about how I'd get them to Guam (customs can be pretty strict, plus I'd have very little extra packing room!). Hopefully I can find a HFS in Guam, or a website/catalog I can order from!

FILLESE: Your chicken recipe sounds delicious! I will definitely have to try making that one!

VIV: How frustrating having the school cut the gifted program (although kudos to your son for qualifying!)! I absolutely hate the standardized testing; the school's always end up being more interested in the scores, which result in teachers "teaching to the test". Ugh...I could go on myself!

AMSERAPHIM: Congratulations on your momentous loss! Being under 130 lbs. is my goal -- hopefully I'll be joining you soon! Sorry to hear about the difficulties with your trip -- like they say, there's no place like home!! :)

BEACHFAN: That was an interesting tip you posted about waist size...I had never heard that before. You have quite an inspirational story yourself -- I really enjoyed hearing it all from someone who's met (and surpassed) their goal! WAY TO GO!! Hope your car situation gets worked out in time for your trip!

MARGARETA: Congratulations to you on your new job!! That's fantastic! I taught in the Guam public schools for 3 years, and it was pretty pathetic, so I think I can relate to teaching in a bad school. They now have Dept. of Defense schools in Guam, and I'm really hoping to get hired on by them for next school year. Teaching first grade is a challenge...what grade(s) have you been teaching? I prefer the middle grades (3-6), especially 4th. I will definitely have to look for that cookbook you mentioned -- if it's easy, I'm there! :D

FROG: Half-way to goal?! That's fantastic!

CATHYH: I, too, was really impressed with the drastic decrease in your size! Like Quilter said...flash that backside to your MIL every chance you get! :lol:

RHROO: I can't wait for the day people make comments about my butt getting flatter (if that day ever comes!)! What a compliment! Your weigh-in story cracked me up!

ONEMORETIME: Wow...your initial weight loss is pretty unbelievable! 55 pounds in only 3 months--jeez! Like others mentioned, maybe your body just needing a plateau time to accept the changes, and once you get with the SB WOE, your weight loss will continue! Just remember, we're here to encourage you EVERY step of the way!!

BOB: 4.9 pounds is still a VERY impressive weight loss for the week! You go, girl! :smoking:

STAR: Great job on your mile-long walk! You must feel great!! I checked the SB Shopping Guide, and Polaner's All Fruit is listed as a legal item, so enjoy!!

Hope you all have a great evening!

Deb :wave:
168/161/<130

All I have patience for is a few lines :cry: :cry: :cry:
I had such a NICE LONG post typed with nice replies back to others and - no the puter didn't crash - I don't know WHAT happened???? :cry:

I wanted to tell everyone my accomplishment for today, but next to Deb's it's miniscule. I did 60 minutes.. yes a whole hour..... on the TM. I managed to get 3 miles. Deb you making me look bad, but at the same time inspiring me too. As I start to struggle and look to see how the time is going and it feels like TWICE the amount the timer says I just remind myself " DEB walks 4 1/2 stinking miles in LESS than an hour :dizzy:

Anyways, ladies, I have been trying to make a better effort at posting more and now I will be leaving in the morning for the SUNSHINE state!!!!! My aunt and uncle live in Hernando, FL. DH will be playing in a golf tournament with my DU - get it, dear uncle - :lol: We will be back Sunday sometime, so all you gals just keep on doing what you are doing :D I am so proud of ALL OF USSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO DEB on 1yr of SUGARBUSTERS!!!!

BTW - I gotta keep it honest - I weighed this morning :(, and "the" STEEL MONSTER said 129. I may have read the scale wrong yesterday - ARGHHHH

Hi everyone. My computer must need optimizing. Everything is SOOOO slow. It took me a minute just to get my trash emptied. So I guess I'll need do back up some stuff and then run through an optimizing program. Ugh! I hate that maintenance stuff.

BOB--I just finished making Wiley's pole beans for dinner tonight. I had a small dish for a snack, and they really are yummy. Will cook a rump roast to go along with them. Maybe do a little "fried" cabbage, and add some Wiley's to that too.
Congratulations on your loss. Keep it up, girl!
BTW, I'm shocked at the UT coach resigning. I think their season resulted from the fact that UT's team was a bunch of individuals, rather than a unit. Much more that than any poor coaching. That's the scuttlebut. I've even read that in the USA Today, which we get.

Well, just wanted to check in. Lost a pound. Have another meeting tonight. Hope to see my DH before 9 p.m. I told him we were having roast beef, so maybe he'll het home by 6 pm.

Take care.

Happy Thursday! Since I don't usually work on Fridays, my weekend starts now, Yipeee!!!

Frog Lover - Way to go on the 3 lbs! Awesome loss:cool:

Cathy - Wow, you've been working hard. You are a great inspiration, but don't lose it too fast, it's not good for your body. Hope you post more!

Onemoretime - You can get back on track. If you aren't exercising like before, it will probably come off slower, but you can do it!

BOB - Still a great loss!!! Hopefully more of us can report numbers like yours next week.

Deb - Thanks for your story. I've always been heavy and like you was teased, especially by my brother. I don't really remember alot about my childhood and I think that's the reason--I was unhappy, embarrassed, etc. You have such a great attitude about reaching your goal. Half the process is the journey and learning about yourself along the way. By taking longer than you thought, this will probably be a lifelong success story for you! Way to go! I second everything Fillise said, too.

Those chips I mentioned this morning are Tropical Source expresso roast chocolate chips. The ingredients are chocolate (unrefined cane juice crystals, chocolate liquor (non-alcohol), cocoa butter. tofu, lecithin (a soy-derived emulsifier, vanilla bean oil), french roasted ground expresso beans. Something really interesting about the packaging is that nowhere does it give the nutrient breakdown. It does indicate that they are all natural, dairy free, egg free and made without refined sugars. Guess I'll have to use them in something to take to the office for everyone else to eat. My DH is not a big chocolate lover, so he won't be missing out. I'll still have to figure out what to do with the unsweetened carob chips. Maybe I'll melt them down with sweetener and add my own nuts.

Star - I'm doing the Happy Dance for you, too:spin:

Amseraphim - Great job on the 60 minute TM. And yes, it's hard to believe what Deb does--don't think I'll ever get there, but we'll keep trying, right?

I'm going to get my TM walk in before supper as soon as my DH comes home. Sure gives me more energy for the night. I'll try to get on later or check out the chat!

Karen

Hi everyone!

It's great to hear so many doing so great! Kim, I did as you suggested and got on the scales again today. I lost 1.5 lbs from the 4.5 I was up. Whew... I guess "dookey" and "water retention" will do it every time.

Congratulations Deb on your ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY! You are such a motivator. Just reading the struggle that you have had helps to keep me going. You give us the answers to help make it a little bit more bearable for the rest of us. Thanks!

Beach: You are another one that helps to keep me motivated. Just knowing that you all have had the same struggle and you know how difficult it all is and that you can give us answers to help us get through it all is such a blessing. Thanks!

BOB: After reading that you and Deb have both had your stomach stapled and still gained back the weight has helped me to make the decision not to have it done. I had been considering it for a while now. I think that this is the way to go. With each other for support, we can't go wrong! Right? Oh and by the way 4.9 pounds lost is AWSOME!

Rhoo: I agree with you that our health is the most important thing. With diabetes, high blood pressure, hear disease threatening our future with our families. I for one want to get as healthy as possible. I have two beautiful grandchildren that I want to be around for and I want to have the energy and vitality it takes to KEEP UP WITH THEM :) You are doing so great! thanks for the inspiration!

OneMoreTime: 55 pounds in 12 weeks is an awsome amount of weight to lose. I'm like the others, I think that your body is adapting to all of the sudden changes it has undergone and if you hang in there, it will start to drop again. Don't try to lose it too fast though. You want this to be the last time you have to lose it.

Cathy H: Going from a size 22 to a size 14 is wonderful! It's ok to feel great about how your body is changing. When the MIL gets out the camera this time turn around and offer your posterier for another picture and let her know how proud you are of yourself. Go girl! You're awsome!

Kim: You're like me, I am constantly coming in here to my computer to make sure that I'm not missing anything on the board. You all have become true friends to me even though we haven't met. As for the "Dragon" movie, I haven't seen it yet. Let me know if you think it's good.

Frog: Congratulations on the 3 pound loss. You're half way there. That is truely GREAT!

Rosalie: Let me know how you like the Crockpot Garbanzo Stew. That sounds like something that I would like.

StarChaser: Congratulations and HAPPY DANCE to you for your MILE walk. That is fantastic. Keep it up and it'll become a piece of cake! (oops that's a bad word!) Oh, well, you know what I mean.

Everyone have a great evening and hopefully we'll all get to chat this evening at 9:15.

Cheri
287/276.5/145

WHAT A BEAUTIFUL EVENING HERE ON THE WEST COAST OF FLA!
Hope everyone else's weather is as nice as it is here :D

GATOR: My cousin in Knoxville said almost the same words about the team....except he used the words BIG HEADS I believe in my gut that the have asked the coach to resign. It's a shame, he was a good coach.
Glad your beans turned out good. I believe I'll have some myself for supper! You know me, I've always got them in the icebox!

BEACH: Hope you get that car fixed...nothing worse than having to "walk" on a trip...interstate can be really busy on the weekends. If a BAMA fan saw a whole FLOCK of you AUBURN people waking on the side of the road with suitcases, it might not be a pretty site!

Watching the weather, and it doesn't look good for all you people along the "Northeastern Coast" ...looks like more snow for you!

STAR: WAY TO GO ON THAT WALK! I must admit that I got a visual on that butt dragging behind you and it wasn't a pretty site :lol: KEEP IT UP....you'll catch up with DEB before you know it!

ROSALIE: 46 DEGREES? Did you put that THONG on and get a little sun?

DEBSTAHL: I thought of you seeing that septic scene when I was watching "MEET THE PARENTS" . I had to laugh out loud! I know it's not funny, but you instantly came to mind!

ANN: Enjoy your trip to the Sunshine State...Hope the weather holds for you!~

KAREN: ESPRESSO CHIPS? YUMMMMMMMM Hope they turn out to be legal for you..

CHERI: WAY TO GO ON THAT DOOKEY LOSS!
About the stapling...I would do it again if I knew that I could have the same results as before. I know a lot more now, and there is so much support around. When I did mine in 81, there was nothing! I lost all that weight and felt sooooooo good, but there was no one to tell me what I needed to do or how to do it! I definately would only do it as a last resort (which I thought it was at the time). We can get all the support we need RIGHT HERE...it might take us longer, BUT WE CAN DO IT.....I KNOW WE CAN!!!!

Well, I'm off to gnaw on some chicken! Hope everyone can make chat!

BOB

Dear Deb - What a wonderful and personal thing for you to share. You know best that we all learn from each other here. Thank you for letting us all know your journey.

I know that I would not have found this site, and probably wouldn't have been successful without Deb finding me on the SB site and inviting me here. This mrning my husband saw that I had posted 100+ times since October/November 2000. He said, "That site has really been good for you hasn't it?" And it has, and again I must say, I owe much of it to Deb emailing me the link.

I am not one of those people who can go it alone. I need people who understand to stand up and cheer over a 1/2 loss and be supportive when there is a gain. I need people to hold me accountable, to see my weight out in cyberspace - I have to say that seeing my weight on my computer screen was very eye-opening. I want to thank all of you for your continued support, especially Deb.

DEB - I hope that you will celebrate your anniversary with a special gift to yourself. You've already given yourself the gift of health, I'm talking about something from the mall - new panties or a bra, new walking shoes, something you wouldn't ordinarily go out and buy yourself. Go For It!

BOB - sorry that your computer is testy. I always enjoy your posts, you gotta stay online! Way to go on the loss! You kicked that one-eyed monster in his metal *ss! Hey to Skeeter!

VIV - I hope you will let us know if you here back from Parade Magazine.

ROSALIE - Way to go on the loss babe! Glad to see your posts.

BEACH - Thanks for your advice!

AMSERAPHIM - Did I ever tell you that I am orginally from Columbus, GA? I lived there until I was 27 years old. I love Savannah, it is a beautiful and romantic city. Congrats on landing the job you wanted.

QUILTER the greens sounded great. I have to admit that I miss the cornbread that goes so well with them.

RHOO - Glad to see you back on the board! So good that you have been exercising!

ONEMORETIME - Welcome. You will get plenty of support from a great group here!

CATHYH - You and I started at approximately the same size and we are both about the same size now. I haven't taken any pics of my butt lately, but I need to. I posted a pic a while ago when I was just getting started on a diet, before SB. It was awful to see, but it is a good reminder.

FILLISE - HEY home girl!

STARCHASER - your La weather has come this way. Today was beautiful, tomorrow is supposed to be beautiful! Yeah for the mile!

Hope to be back on at 9:15 to chat. Hubby and I are gonna watch "hoopties" (basketball tonight) Duke U is playing, they are North Carolina's last team in the tourney.


Peace,
Frog

HI All

Its been a great day! You are all a wonderful bunch of folks! You inspire me to keep on keep'in on!

I hope you all have a wonderful evening and a great friday!

Hugs!
Cathy

Hi Everyone!

I just had to post to say Debbie, you are an inspiration. Thank-you so much for writing about your journey. I needed to hear about it to motivate me! You are such a caring and wonderful person; we are very lucky to have you here as Moderator (aka Super Chick).


Star: Was it you who had the burger the other day. I went to Friendly's today for lunch and they have whole wheat buns! They actually have them on the chicken sandwiches, but I had it with a burger - had a craving. I am sure there is some sugar in it, but I just ate about half the bun and figured it was much better then a white bun! The burger was delicious. The wicked waitress kept trying to get me to have a FREE hot fudge sundae, but I told her No Way!

Gator: Thanks again for your support, I needed it.

Overcome: Thanks again for your words. I went to church last night and prayed about my situation and I feel even better today.

Melf: How is the walking coming? That contagious friendship thing was really cute!


Cheri: Way to go with sticking to your exercise! I lifted weights again today and feel good about it. I wish that I could walk, but can't (problems with the feet), but I figure if I build the muscles, it will burn fat faster!

Beach: Sorry to hear about your weather. I hope you are staying warm!

Overcome: What a sweetie you have in Pete! That was so cool! I bet it was good too. Tomorrow is my 6 month wedding anniversary... tee hee. I went to my husband's work and tied 12 helium balloons on his mail case - he's a mail man! Pretty funny - he got WAY TEASED. Good men are hard to find; we are lucky!

Karen: Great job with sticking straight as an arrow before your vaca!

Viv: when do you leave for sunny land! It is absolutely beautiful here! You picked a great time

Liz: I leave for PA on Monday! I hear I need to bring lots of Woolies!!! Hope to hit the last week of skiing in NY!

Rhoo: can't remember if I congratulated you for the big 2 pounds... hope so! If not consider yourself patted on the back!

Debstahl: How ya feeling? The Chili sounds good. Please post it! Thanks for the encouragement on the weights. I did it again today - just about killed me, but got it done.... WooHOO

Rose: Congrats on your two pounds! How was badminton?

Fillise: Stay warm!

Big O: Geez, you are having the board problems! Congrats on your weight loss!

Welcome to all the Newbies!

200/197/140

Evening Everyone!:wave:

Want to get into a post before I start my evening. Have to drop Lauren off at school for 2 hours, Eli, have no idea when he's coming home (thought he'd be here already), and Sharon is coming to stay with us for two weeks-the saga is getting nasty.:eek:

Took Lauren to the mall. I can totally understand what my Mother went through with me as a child and being heavy. It's so hard to deal with the situation of having an overweight teenager-gosh, I wonder if I was really like this! She wants all these tight fitting clothes, and nothing looks good on her-I'd love to buy her things, but do I do it and not care how bad she looks, as she doesn't see herself in that frame of mind, or do I say NO?:nono: What's a Mother to do?!? It was interesting when we were in Dillards, I tried on a pair of jeans, they were too small, size 6 petite, but when at Penneys, I tried on a pair of girls plus size 12 1/2, which were too big, needed to try on a 10 1/2, but they didn't have any-what a hoot-I find something that would of fit me in the kids dept. Their relaxed jeans really are perfect for my frame-not that I am going to buy any right now, but hey, I found something, right?!?

I didn't mention anything before, as I really don't know what to think about it, but for about 2 weeks now, my eyes have been puffy, red underneath some days, and yesterday, woke up with both upper lids swollen, one a lot bigger than the other, looked like I had two lids:eek: They went down during the day, but I'm not sure what the cause is. I haven't changed make-up, detergent, anything. The only things I can say I have changed is having the SB legal chocolate and SD bread. I ate SD yesterday, no problem, but didn't chocolate, so will try a bit tonight and see if that could be the culprit-geez, after all these years of eating chocolate, could you even imagine having an allergic reaction to it-I'm sure I'm wrong, but it's a theory. Sharon says it's from spending money on myself. Considering that I never buy myself anything, and what I bought was all 75%, I think I'd go blind if I bought anything full price!:lol:

FILLISE, I'm sure we all have weight loss (horror) stories to tell. Even when I reach goal, it isn't over, it's a life long battle with me, and I know if I even THINK about eating something off plan it's probably going to be my demise. Thanks so much for your congratulation! I'm sure I'll be saying the same to you one day soon.:)

STAR, CONGRATULATIONS! Making a mile is wonderful. Happy dancing for you here in Miami!!! If the Polaner has no sugar added in the ingredient list, then it should be okay-post them when you get a chance and we can throw out our 2 cents. Hope things lighten up for you at work soon.

BIGO, it seems there is something up with the cookies in your computer. Hope you can find a way to get it all resolved. Thanks for the congrats. When I make goal we'll have to do dinner in Marco!!!

BEACH, thanks for the congrats as well. It wasn't long ago when we were congratulating you, and hopefully, we both will be congratulating others in the future of meeting goals and other SB milestones. Hope things work out with the car, don't let it put a damper on this much needed and deserved trip.

ROSALIE, glad to hear it's "warming up" up in Canada. Thanks for the double congrats:) Eli is suppose to go in a few weeks, Montreal and outside Toronto. He wants me to go as well, we haven't had a vacation together in YEARS, but I don't think I will. It's a free trip all the way around, staying with 2 different sisters, airfare free, but I just am not in the mood to travel during that time, esp during a holiday week and by standby! BUT, if by a slim chance I do, I'll let you know.

DEBSTAHL, the recipe you posted looks yummy-that's one I may eventually try (pray for the poor souls who eat it besides me!). I'm a terrible cook! Thanks for the double congrats, it's very much appreciated. Hope the septic tank saga ends soon! You should try to meet with BIGO when you are in St. Pete, I don't think she's too far from there-she's a real hoot!

AMSER, I had that happen with my post as well, I hit one of the lower left keys and it just vanished into thin air, and I don't know which key is the terminator!! Please know, every accomplishment, no matter how small is worth posting. No one should outshine anyone else-this is a group effort. You should be proud of doing an hour on the treadmill, it's not easy. Remember, I have flat ground down here, I'm sure you must be walking on a slight incline-that makes a big difference! Have fun here in FL-the weather has been wonderful!!!

KAREN, thanks for those nice words. I think growing up, my worst critic was my Grandmother, to this day, I'll never forgive her for how she made me feel. It seems if you weren't the way she wanted you to be, she didn't love you. She is totally weight obsessed. This comes from an adult, I can understand a brother, but not from an elder. On the choc. chips, sorry to say, but they are definitely NOT legal.:nono: If you want choc., why not get some SB legal choc. and chop it in small chunks-tastes a lot better too.

CHERI, thanks for the congrats. Glad to hear you are down a bit, I've had days like that. Be patient, I can tell you from experience, as long as your are following the plan, you will lose it again-it's NOT fat, just water/dookie weight!!:lol:

FROG, you are so sweet! You've added so much to this board since you began, I'm happy to have found you. I really don't send our link out to too many people. I get a "feel" for some people through their posts and then e-mail them to let them know about our group. Hmmmm, I guess that's probably why we have such a great group of women on this board!!!! I am definitely making good on the "rewarding myself", even though I can't afford it. I have to, the stuff I have looks like maternity wear on me now-at least it's all been on sale!!!!

ANNETTE, thanks for those kind words. Please don't forget chat tonight!!!!!

I've got to run get Lauren from school. I'll be on later for chat, if I'm a little late, don't worry, start without me. Sharon just got here and she is soo upset. Things are not good today.

Later!!

Debbie
194/133.5/129
Miami, FL

FIRST THINGS FIRST . . .DEB, YOU ARE AWESOME. YOU ROCK! YOU ARE AN INSPIRATION TO ALL OF US. Thanks for sharing your story. I didn’t know even half of it. Wow!!! Thank you for being so strong. Your strength gets directly transmitted to each of us. How’s that for empowerment!!!! Anyways, congrats on the one year. What a hurdle!

WHAT A GREAT CHAT TONIGHT!!! For those of you who missed it, try and come next Thursday. There were so many people all talking at once. It was too much fun.

I have a theory . . . want to hear it???? Ever since we had that poll question at the beginning of the week, I have been true blue 100% faithful to SB. Now I must confess that I am NOT one of the three who NEVER go off plan. So I think the fact that I truthfully said I ate off plan one or 1 times a week was kind of a slap in the face for me. It really bugged me that I couldn’t report what I wanted to report. So I really think it’s helped me get back on the wagon. Great idea Deb.


DEBSTAHL---Well, let’s try to meet up while you’re in the Buckeye State. When the time gets closer I’ll email you my phone number and we’ll make arrangements. I do hope that you can find the right food while in Guam. You could always make lists fo non-perishables for your family to ship over. Listen to me . . . finding things for other people to do!!!

BEACH---Every single time I read your stats after your signature, I think to myself, “I want a piece of that action. I want to be where she is. I want Beach’s self-control and willpower.” You really do make me think that this is going to happen for me. Many thanks!!!!

AMSER---Do I hear you discrediting your self for spending 60 grueling minutes on the TM beast????? Are you crazy???!!! That is an outstanding effort. I can barely last 20-25 without gasping for breath. Keep up the good work. You are going to see more great results with that kind of a push.

CHERI-Glad to see the re-weighin went well. That has to make you breathe a little easier. We all seem to be spending way too much time thinking about dookie. Ha!!!!

Well, friends, I want to email Debbie those pics of the FL get-together. Maybe they’ll be up soon. We had so much fun. Hope you enjoy them.

Take care. And pleasant dreams
Kim
185/176/139

Annette--I'm going to be at a meeting starting Friday (tomorrow) night and going until noon Sunday. It is in south Daytona Beach. Isn't that near you? Are you in Port Orange? Anyway, I have Saturday afternoon free and if you are close, I could meet you somewhere. I'll have my car so I don't have to rely on anyone else for transportation.

It's going to be a little hard this weekend, because all my food is prepared by someone else. I understand breakfasts are sweet breads or bagels and OJ. So I think I'm gonna have to take some of my own food. Ought to be interesting.

I hope my new avatar works. Thought it was appropriate for my name!

BTW, Annette, I'll be here until about 1 pm. tomorrow, and will check the board before I leave. I'm staying at the El Caribe Hotel in Daytona Beach.

Having a heard time with the chat "thang" tonight. Sorry to have missed you all. Any plans to chat again this weekend?

DEB - At the risk of playing doctor, do you know if you have any seasonal allergies? Have you done the WEB MD search or about.com search for more information? Is anything else swollen or puffy - Other parts of your face, hands, etc? It could be a 100 things, but I had a similar sounding experience that was a food related allergy or a mix of 2 foods. Are you on a medication that has that as a side-effect?

Hope that you discover the cause soon!

Peace,
Frog

Well, I am not completely packed yet, but have everything organized for the most part :spin: I know I mentioned in earlier post, but not sure anyone responded..... any of you SUNSHINE STATE gals heard of Hernando???? It's near Ocala. I have been watching the weather reports online, and it seems to be for the weekend. Close to 80 in Hernando. Hey.. I might catch some rays.

Frog - nice to know another good ole Georgia girl. Thanks for the compliments about this fair city. I think you have me confused with someone though, about getting a new job :lol: I am a domestic engineer by trade :cool:

Debbie - About those swollen eyes... could it be allergies. You walk outdoors everyday. Could there be something blooming that is not agreeing with your respiratory system??? And, thanks for the compliment about my hour long 3 mile walk :dizzy:

Kim - Thank you also for the words of praise. Hey... I never said I wasn't gasping for air :lol: You will gradually build up, just as I have.


I hope everyone will have a nice weekend. Do something special just for yourselves. We all deserve it. We work HARD don't we ladies!!!!!!! I will check in on Sunday. Hope you all will miss me just a tad :^:

I gotta run, but Debbie, GO TO THE DOCTOR. I had an eye infection that I ignored. It was a viral infection on the eyeball itself, not in the lids. I mean like in front of my pupil. It was made worse by my contact lenses so I had to stop wearing them. As soon as I thought it was getting better it turned into simple pinkeye (which was going around at the time). Well, I'd been to the doctor twice by this point. Then one day I woke up and couldn't bear light. I thought this was a bad sign so I went back to the doctor. Turns out I had an autoimmune reaction where the actual rods and cones in my eye were inflammed and I had to take steroid drops for a long, long time. Meanwhile the virus healed but it left scars on my eyeballs. Doctor said it was a wonder I could still see. It's been months and months and I STILL have to take the steroid drops because my eyes will always flare up under stress now. I don't know when I'll be able to wear contact lenses again. Maybe never. I'm hoping my eyes will eventually get better so I can get laser surgery. So the moral of the story is, don't mess around when it comes to your eyes! Lots of love, Chris

Good Friday Morning~

Well the weather had been nice the last 2 days. Getting ready for a little snow! "Darn"... It was a real treat talking with you ladies on the chat last night... Can't you tell I have a quiet life! LOL

Well I just wanted to wish you all a great day and weekend. I might not make it to the board this weekend, a dear friend of mine is getting married on Sunday and we have lots to do!

Take Care and have a great day!

Hugs~
Cathy

Good Friday Morning Everyone!:wave:

I am late but just wanted to let you all know I would be gone from the computer most of the day, taking Lauren on a field trip. Will be on sometime this evening!

Have a wonderful day and a great weekend!

Debbie
194.133.5/129
Miami, FL

Hi, just wanted to quickly post before I continue my pre-trip frenzy - I'm going to print out all the other posts I haven't read and take them with me....great plane reading (in between naps!)

First of all = my Dad's biopsy was moved till today, at 9am california time. So wherever you are, think good things. The doctors told me if it is cancerous the next step would be to remove it, and that he could withstand the surgery. So I guess, in all, that's something to make me feel better (?). Thanks so much for those good thoughts!

Second - I DID IT! I MADE IT TO MY FLORIDA GOAL! Of course, being stressed and having no appetite certainly had something to do with it, but I am looking forward to doing laps in the pool(s) and taking some good early evening walks to keep this going. I'm thrilled - thanks to all of you for the great support - Upon my return, it's at least 7 more to go!

Third - I forgot. Oh well, guess I'm stressed. Gotta go and pack.

Hugs to all and I will look forward to reading the posts on the plane - and no email for a week!

Viv
Simsbury Ct but Florida bound!
146/135(!)/128

Here's Frog with your Fitness Friday Article for March 23, 2001

"Are You Allergic to Exercise?"
from April 2001, Runner's World, article by Bill Donohue.

While this is a funny excuse for not getting off the couch, there actually is an exercise induced allergy. Symptoms include itching, hives or redness of the skin, and difficulty breathing. These symptoms typically begin just minutes after a person starts to exercising and usually subside wtihin 2 hours after the workout.

"The allergy seems to be triggered by a rise in body temperature which is why the problem tends to occur on hot days," says Mark Niedfeldt, M.D., a sports medicine specialist at the Medical College of Wisconsin. "When you have a reaction, stop exercising and find shade, especially if your symptoms are severe. Also, try exercising during a cooler part of the day."

2 of the most common types of exercise-induced allergic reactions
1. Cholinergic Urticaria (hives).
This rash usually occurs on the neck, chest, and arms. An antihistamine such as Benadryl, taken before exercise, will help reduce the breakout. For a natural remedy, try a soothing oatmeal bath afterward.

2. Exercise-induced Anaphylaxis (A sudden and possibly severe reaction).
Symtoms include fatigue, redness and warmth of the skin, severe itching, and hives. Some cases can even lead to swelling of the throat, making it hard to breathe and swallow. (In this case, seek immediate medical attention.) To prevent or reduce reactions, avoid foods such as nuts, shell fish and celery before you run, and don't exercise in very hot conditions. Taking aspirin, ibuprofen and antihistamines (or epinepherin in serious cases) may also help. Two natural substances offer protection: Quercetin, an anit-inflamatory found in apples and onions; and bromelain, an enzyme found in pineapples.

And that's your Fitness Friday report for Friday, March 23, 2001.

Hi all, Getting ready to go over to Daytona Beach for the weekend.

Annette--oops! I see you are from Ormond Beach, not Port Orange. Is Ormond anywhere near Daytona. If it is, contact me at the El Caribe Resort and Conference Center in Daytona Beach. I'll try to send you an e-mail with my full name. Otherwise, ask for Gail with the Westwood Alliance group. Then maybe we can get together Sat. afternoon.

Viv--have a great trip. I wish you WARM days and an idyllic time down here.

Who's going to Hernando? I know there is a Hernando county, but what town will you be in? The town of Hernando. I think, then, that is is a small town.

Gotta go. Take care all you losers!! :-)

Yippee!! They have FINALLY fixed our drain line, and I'm now doing laundry like a mad woman!! :dizzy: The contractor is giving me some run-around, though. First, they damaged our inground sprinkler system, so now we're going to have to dig up the backyard again to try and repair it! :mad: Then, after giving us a quote of $1250 last Friday, he's now saying we owe $1350!! I'm so ticked -- I'm passing the buck on to my husband for this one...he can deal with it!!

We ended up cancelling our plans to go to St. Pete this weekend, and I'm not too sad about it. I really didn't want to go anyway, and after having to spend all this $$$ on the septic, it just really seemed like a bad plan! We're hoping to do some yard work, etc. this weekend instead -- we really need to get this house sold!

AMSERAPHIM: Great job on the TM!! One hour is definitely an accomplishment! I'm hoping now that our weather is so much nicer I can get out walking with my boys!

BOB: Haven't seen "Meet the Parents" yet, but now that you've mentioned a septic scene, I'd better go rent it!!

DEBELLI: Sure hope the problems with your eyes clear up! Maybe you should go to the Dr. -- eyes aren't something to mess around with!!

VIV: CONGRATS on reaching your FL goal! Way to go!! Hope everything goes OK with your Dad's biopsy...I missed exactly what the problems are, but hope you get some good news! My parents are both in remission now with their cancers (Mom - colon; Dad - melanoma), but I can relate to the stress you're going through!

EVERYONE ELSE: Hope you're having a great Friday!!

Sorry I missed the chat last night...I will definitely have to try to join in on the next one! Sounds like a good time was had by all!!

Off to fix some lunch now -- and do more laundry, of course! :lol:

Deb :wave:
168/161/<130

Hi everyone, I'm home sick today & have finally had a chance to read the board for the week. Sorry I have not been able to respond this week. It's been a rough one.

Haven't been able to walk since Monday when I did my 3.3 miles. Not sure if I'll get to walk today since I have had to make frequent potty calls since 1am. Not too pleasant...sorry.

Debelli, thanks for sharing your story with us. It surely is a motivation for all of us to stick with it. Hope that swelling problem gets better. The eyes are certainly not something that you want to mess with, so if it doesn't clear quickly, get to the doctor!

Annette, amseraphim, GatorGal, Viv, & Beach...all of you going on trips. Hope things go well for all of you. Be careful. Can't wait for our time to come for vacation.

Viv, yes, keeping you & your dad in prayer. Hope that you can get some positive news before you leave for your vacation.

Mary T8M, welcome to the board!

Star, great about your 1 mile walk! You CAN DO IT!

BOB, glad to hear that you're able to post at work again.

debstahl, glad to hear that your sewer problem is finally under control. You reminded me that I need to get in there & get some laundry done too. Yuck.

Well, I tried coffee & cereal earlier & it went right through, but I need to get something in my stomach. So I'll check in later. Sorry I missed the chat last night.

WIW wasn't good for me. I was up to 164, but this am the scale said 162, but I'd better not count it yet. So I will not report a weight for this week.

Hello Busters!!!!

Hope everyone has had a wonderful Friday. I spent the morning with my friend, Jackie. She's the one who found ou tshe had breast cancer just over a month ago. Had her first chemo this week and now she's waiting to see what's going to happen. It was a great morning. We just sat at her kitchen table and made cards. (Yes, OVERCOME, I got my first stamping lesson!) She talked a lot about the illness and what's gone on so far. Her attitude is so positive. Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers.

Now this part of the post has to be dedicated to OVERCOME. Here's why. Earlier in the week we made plans to visit our good friends for dinner. I said I'd bring the lasagna and they'd supply everything else. I was feeling pretty lazy so I had decided to just stop at the grocery and pick up a Stouffers frozen family size. How much easier could it be? Right? And the conversation inside my head was, "Yes, it's regular pasta in that lasagna, but it's just that one meal and it won't kill me to eat the regular pasta and blah, blah, blah (to quote RHROO!). " Then here comes OVERCOME's post about going to eat with friends and she thought she'd take her own pasta. Well, I was starting to feel pretty guilty. This stouffer's lasagna was taking up way too much of my brain time. So last night I told Paul I was going to make lasagna using the legal whole wheat noodles. So that's what I did. It's finished and sitting on top of the stove resting. I feel so great, so committed to the plan. This is my fourth straight day with "all things SB" and no deviations from the plan. I'm interested to see what kind of breads they have there tonight. I'll probabyy pass on the bread anyways, because of the noodles. We'll see. Anyways, just wanted to share that with you all. It's totally 100% because of this board that I went the extra mile and made wwlasagna. Without the accountability that comes with being part of this wonderful group I would have folded. Thanks for the support.

One other quick item. I've been so busy today I haven't had time to read. But wanted to tell you all about a wonderful store we have here in Cincinnati. It's called Jungle Jims. It's a one of a kind place. The man who owns this place is incredible. He started out selling produce ou of the back of a truck and now has one of the best stores in town. It's HUGE!!!! And it carries everything. Every kind of ethnic food is represented, plus a produce department and wine and cheese shop and just SO MUCH. It's about 20-25 minutes from us and we usually don't drive that far for groceries. But I stopped today. I didn't have my listed of recommended foods, but I did see Marantha Almond and Cashew Butter. The cashew butter was over $7 a jar. Whew. Think I'll pass on that for now. I was in a hurry and didn't take a lot of time, but did manage to buy a bag of the Sweet Potato chips. MISTAKE!!!! Those babies are just too good. I had to quickly put them on top of the fridge to stop eating them. Anyways, while I was there I could just imagine BOB and DEB just going nuts in this place. I'm wondering if it's kind of what TJs is like. Guess I'll find out when I go see CHERI.

Better go. Have to go pick up Paul and then head over to our friends' house. I'll check back tonight or tomorrow a.m.
Have a great evening.
Take care.
Kim
185/176/139

Hi everyone, TGIF and all that!

I had very good intentions to read, or at least print and read, everything for the week. I have been swamped at school and not much puter time this week. Well, I only printed out Monday by accident, got to school to read it, and it was all old news. Anyway, I hope everyone had a productive week of weight loss.

I was an angel with my WOE this week, until last night when I just HAD to have fried shrimp. But it was my parents' anniversary dinner and I decided to do the bad thing. At least I didn't overdo it, and it was the only slipup this week...quite an improvement.

Spring break starts today, I am a happy happy teacher. I am going to veg out and then visit friends in Baton Rouge later in the week. Mary, I believe you are from Abbeville (unless I'm confused again), and I do know where that is. Do you know where Minden is? That's where I live.

Everyone have a safe weekend, and next week I am determined to get everyone identified and straightened out in my head!

Dragging for the moment.....

You all have such funny abbreviations....I really thought TOM was some guy who was coming to visit. But I noticed he seemed to be coming to see an awful lot of you, and you didn't seem very glad about it. So I decided he was some kind of sugar-pushing obnoxious internet stalker. Then it dawned on me! Sometimes I even amaze myself.

I also thought WW meant weight watchers, and couldn't figure out why you were posting on this board.

Just wait, when I have lots of free time next week, I will even figure out where you find those cool pictures you attach to your posts. Of course, someone could clue me in and save me the hassle.

Cheers!

Fooey! :sad: I just checked the board and got the message from Gator, but it is too late... does anyone know Gail's last name... Not sure I can call the El Caribe and say " can I have Gail's room." If anyone knows can you either post or call me at 386-615-9440. Thanks!

Annette

Evening Everyone!:wave:

Long day out today. Lauren had a drama thingie at another school, I was the chaperone/chauffer for her, her teacher and 3 other girls. Then had to run and get Michael and 4 of his friends at school and drop them at the Youth Fair-in between, picked up Sharon.

Last night's chat was wonderful-the biggest turn out yet! I needed to do speed reading to keep up with all you fast finger gals! Looking forward to next weeks chat.

Thanks for all of your concerns about my eyes. Really, I'm sure it's nothing, and it isn't anything to do with my actual eyes, it's the skin around it. Where it's bad enough I have dark circles underneath, now, I have dryness there, and then the upper lid, esp. on the one eye, swelled up-but it's nothing to do with my actual eye ball. My chocolate theory is defunct, had a small square last night, didn't do a thing to me, so it must be something else.

Scale stayed the same today, which is just fine with me. I'm sure it will go up a bit, TOM is a few days away, or at least it's suppose to be. So, if I start to fret about the scale, someone please, shove me back to reality!!;)

It's FRIDAY FACTS and here's my contribution:

Body Fat Distribution & Health

Fat above the hips carries a far greater health risk than fat on or below the hips - better to be a 'pear-shape' than an 'apple-shape'.

Abdominal obesity greatly increases the risk of developing diabetes, coronary heart disease, high blood fats, hypertension, stroke and some cancers.

Visceral Fat Versus Subcutaneous Fat

Specifically, it is an excess of visceral fat (which surrounds organs in the abdomen) that is a potential health danger. Visceral fat is more metabolically active; and is much easier to shed than fat on the hips and buttocks.

By contrast, subcutaneous fat (just beneath the skin and including fat on the hips, thighs and buttocks), carries a relatively minor health risk, if any. So-called 'cellulite' carries no extra health risk.

The relative amount of visceral and subcutaneous fat varies greatly between individuals and is genetically determined - and while not distinguishable by eye, waist circumference still best indicates health risk.

High Health Risk - Waist Measurements:

Men - Above 100cm (39 inches)
Women - Above 87cm (34 inches)
A Waist-Hip ratio above 0.9 for men and 0.8 for women also carries similar health risks.

Women's Hips And Thighs

The fat in women's thighs serves the biological function of an energy storehouse were a famine to occur during pregnancy or lactation. Women who become obsessed with dieting away their thighs and buttocks on an otherwise lean body, are fighting mother nature and may well be inviting health problems.

If you are within a healthy weight range, it is better to exercise regularly to maintain body shape, rather than to be constantly dieting and lacking in energy. Accept your body shape and focus on other pursuits and enjoying life!
*****

QUILTER, I didn't want to bore you through Naples and dinner with my whole story, which I didn't fully cover on the board, you'd of really wondered what you had gotten yourself into if I had!:eek: Glad to hear you've been 100% since you took the poll, it's not so bad, is it?!? Got pics, I downloaded #2 & #3, but nothing was there, plus, #2 took 13 minutes to download:eek: Will let you know later if any of them materialize. Glad to hear you and Jackie had a nice day together, I'm sure she appreciates your friendship and support more than you'll ever realize. You go girl-that lasagna is probably 10x or more better than that frozen crap (sorry for those of you who buy it). Sharon makes the best veg. lasagna, I'll have to post that recipe one day!

FROG, I think OVERCOME mentioned she'd like to do a chat this weekend as well. Pick a time, and see who can show. I'll always show if I'm around (and the computer is free). Thanks for posting that FRIDAY FITNESS fact!! Thank goodness I don't have any of those problems, just eye problems!!

AMSER, thanks for letting us know where Hernando is. I definitely know where Ocala is, my kids go to camp outside of Ocala, so I'm up that way more times than I care to be during the summer. There's a great flea market in WEBSTER, only on Monday's though-love going there! The weather is gorgeous down here! Hope you have a safe and wonderful trip!!!

SPARKLE, that eye thing sounded nasty:eek: I have nothing at all like that-see above. I hope your eyes get better. Sharon tells me that same moral-she says I won't be happy until....

CATHY, have a wonderful time at your friends wedding this weekend. Take a pic to post on the board!!! Of you!!!!

VIV, I know by the time you read this you will be in FL, and I'll be seeing you soon!! Let us know what happened with your Dad when you get a chance. Congrats on reaching your FL goal-hopefully you can enjoy your vacation without putting much, if any, of the weight back on. You're so close to goal, remember that!!!

DEBST, glad to hear you've fixed the spetic tank. I had a picture in my mind of you feverishly doing wash, and oh so wishing you were here to do mine!!:lol:

MELF, sorry to hear you aren't up to par today-hope you get on the mend soon. Glad to hear you are down to 162. Once you are feeling better, you'll get back to walking and the scale will continue to go down. Sorry I haven' replied to your e-mail yet, I promise I will soon-just enough to get onto the board, I have e-mails since the 12th t respond to, so please, be patient with me:^:

MARGARET, glad to hear you are on spring break, enjoy your time off. Down here it starts next week-I'm already ready to pull out my hair! It's hard to keep teenagers busy. Don't worry about the one meal of shrimp, one meal won't kill you, it's those continuous screw-ups that do. If you are going to be near Mary, maybe you two could meet! :lol: TOM, almost as bad as when someone (can't remember who), thought BOB was a man, and it's BIG ORANGE BABE!!!! BUT, WW is Weight Watchers, some people follow that with the SB rules, helps them keep better portion control. Now, WIW is WEIGH IN WEDNESDAY. HFS is health food store. OH, other half, DH, darling husband-did I forget anything??

PLEASE REMEMBER TO E-MAIL ME WITH ANY POLLING IDEAS YOU MAY HAVE!!!!

Well gals, I'll check in with you all later. I hope you have a wonderful weekend and I'll be checking in to see your posts.

Debbie
194/133.5/129
Miami, FL

Feeling better this evening, thanks Debelli.

Margaret, :lol: that was tooooo funny about TOM, but sometimes it's hard for me to figure out what some abbreviations are too. It took me the longest time to figure out BTW(by the way) :)

Yes I know where Minden is, or about, anyway. And yes, I'm about 1-1/2 hr away from Baton Rouge. That's where StarChaser is from! Debbie is right, we should plan to meet. It would be great if we could all 3 meet in Baton Rouge. I have a few days off next week.

STAR, What do you think??

There are a couple of other gals that were following this WOE not to long ago, also from LA. Not sure if they still lurk or not. How about it FRUITLOUPE & WANTTHEOLDME?

Later!

EVENING EVERYBUDDY :D

This will be a quick one...my all time favorite movie is on Turner Classic Movies tonight GONE WITH THE WIND They do it just as it was premiered all those years ago complete with the overture, intermission etc!

Just had to tell you all about my deal of the day! Went to Burdines (dept store like Macys) today to pick up a few of my favorite "float" dresses. I just love these. I come home and OFF COMES THE BRA and on comes the
dress...SO COMFY but anyway I went upstairs to poke around in the housewares dept and found a CALPHALON 3 qt suise/skillet originally sells for $120 for $29.99 less 15% ended up paying $27 and some change! WOO HOO!!!!

Gotta go....Scarlett is about to eat BBQ!

BOB

Hi Everyone:)

Just wanted ya'll to know I would be off the board several days vacationing.

Everyone stay true to the plan and remember we do this to be HEALTHY!

Anna
222/138/140

Evening Everyone!

BOB: I love your bear attachment. It's too cute! I really like Gone With The Wind too but I can't get the channel that it comes on. Watch it for me too :)

Chris: I sure hope that things will get better with your eyes so that you'll either be able to wear contacts again or you'll be able to get surgury to correct your eyesite. You're right, don't want to mess with the eyes.

Cathy H: Enjoy your friend's Wedding. (Hope the snow doesn't come). It's supposed to get cooler tonight here in Indy too.

Viv: Congratulations on making it to your Florida goal! I hope that you will be able to have a wonderful time on your vacation. Your family is in my prayers!

Frog: Thanks for the information on Exercise and Allergies. Maybe that's why I hyperventilate just thinking about that walk! :eek: Just kidding :D

Gator Gal: Have a great weekend in Daytona. Hope that you and Annette get to meet.

Debstahl: So glad that your septic is fixed. Sorry you had to postpone your trip though. Hope you'll be able to get in on the chat next Thursday.

Melf: So sorry to hear that you are feeling ill. I hope that you will feel much better soon.

Kim: I hope that your friend Jackie gets through all of this ok. I know that it'll probably be a long road ahead of her. She is in my prayers. You are so awsome. I really think it's great that you fixed your ww lasagna. I'll bet that it will taste so much better than the kind you would have bought at the store. You go girl! Oh, Jungle Jim's sounds like the neatest store. I'm getting excited about visiting Trader Joe's.

Margaret: Congratulations on sticking to this woe this week. I don't think one small shrimp dinner will hurt you. After all it was your parents anniversary. I know that you'll get right back on track. That is so funny about TOM. I had a few days in the beginning trying to figure it out too. Don't feel bad. I think we were all there once :)

Annette: Hope that you'll be able to meet Gail. Good Luck!

Debbie: I hope that your friend Sharon is ok. I know that she is having a really hard time. I went through the same thing last year after 25 years of marriage. She is in my prayers. Also, please be careful with your eyes. It does sound like some kind of allergy though. Thanks for the information on Fat distribution and the health of our bodies. I guess I am in the catagory of "Apple" I look like I'm 12 months pregnant :cry: . At least it says that is the easiest to lose. I sure hope so.

Well, I hope everyone has a great weekend!

Cheri
287/275/145

Good Evening to all

First of all COngrad to Deb, doing this for a year is no small thing. Thanks for the hard work you put into the board.

About the abbreviations...the one that took me the longest to figure out was lol. I think that it really has two meaning. Lots of luck and laughing out loud.

This has been a good week, but busy for me, but who isn't. I have really enjoyed the peace and quiet in the house. My 20 year old moved out a week ago Tuesday and I feel like I am finally getting some decent nights sleep without waking up when he comes home at all hours of the night. I do miss him, but this is the best thing- he needed a dose of reality. Thank God he has a wonderful girl friend that supports and challenges him, and she is only 19.

Weight wise- things are going good even though I don't think I am going to make my goal that I set. I really wanted to lose 50 pounds in five months and I am only a pound or two away. I am still trying to make it, I have until the 27th.

Well got to get going, have to be at work at 6:00 am but hopefully it won't be a full day's work.

Have a good day, Laurie :wave:
350/302/170
Port Charlotte, Florida

Happy Friday everybody! Wow I'm on page 3 and this thread is up to page 5 so my head is spinning, but it's great to see such support here!

Viv...it's great that you are concerned about affecting your kids. As I said my family all has serious problems. The only grandkid is my 3 year old niece. I hear my father telling her she's fat and then feeding her sugary junks all day long all in the same breath. It makes me so furious I want to smack him up upside the head. But I can't do anything. As far as financial planning we are lucky if we aren't lynched in this market, never mind about making money! ;) Funny how people don't understand that this is the best time to buy, sort of like a sale at J. C. Penney. Congrats on reaching your Florida goal!!!!

Idblond....congrats on the 15 pounds and on fitting into Jr's clothes! I was just nutzoid when I fit into a 13 for literally the first time in my LIFE, about a year ago (I'm 27)

Beachfan37....you quoted "This past week in Parade Magazine it stated that if your waist is less than 35 inches you are at a healthy weight for you body type." What kind of body type? That seems pretty big for most women. I am thick waisted with a 30 inch waist and 35 inch hips and consider myself 30ish pounds overweight at 164. By the way that you reached and surpassed your goal is truly an inspiration for me. I mean I can't begin to express my admiration. 15 months seems pretty fast to me when I've been struggling since I was 4 years old and have never YET reached my goal. You and all the other wonderful ladies here give me confidence that it is possible. I'm glad you didn't give up even when the scale slowed down.

amseraphim, good luck with the wedding and I'm sure the dress will be gorgeous!

MargaretA, congrats on the spiffy new job!

BOB Thanks ever so much for the image, it is so cute! I saved it to my hard drive. Well I guess it looks a bit like me. ;) I have so many traumatic potato chip stories. (but not as many as chocolate). so I have released BOTH from my way of eating.

Oh this is my mug. I'm so glad Suzanne & Co. allow images now!

http://www.shapeshakers.com/0301_4.jpg

Frog Lover Wow halfway to goal! That's incredible! We are at almost the same weight, starting point and goal so I really feel a connection!

Rosalie, thanks so much for the support on quitting smoking. I do that too! That is, since I quit I have been repeating to myself over and over, "I am not a smoker." "I don't NEED to smoke" (I hate the idea of being addicted to anything.) I am happy to report that I am still smoke free!

Super Chick Debbie, I'm so glad your eye problems aren't serious like mine but if they get worse or your symptoms change please go to the doctor!

Congrats on the new walking time record and also for a year on Sugar Busters! I wanna say that I for one really appreciate the time and effort you have put into this rockin' forum. As I said I remember you specifically from when I used to post here a year ago but at that time I was putting my energies into getting the Overeaters Anonymous forum going, which it did while I was there! It took me a long time to discover the benefits of a sugar-free lifestyle, and being hardheaded, I had to make a lot of mistakes and figure it all out on my own before it sunk in! I hope you don't mind I copied and posted your story HERE (http://www.atforumz.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=39589) so that the folks on my forum can be inspired too. If you mind I'll take it down.

*Whew* sorry I can't answer everybody...but I always enjoy reading everything you have to say!

Love,

Chris

194/163/130

In celebration of Friday, although it is pretty much over for ya'll on the Mainland, I'm posting a list of websites that I spent quite a bit of time compiling for the other forum I post on. I have reviewed these sites for quality, although not in great detail. I especially enjoyed the personal web sites, some of which are from the 3FC list. Enjoy!

*****

OTHER SUPPORT COMMUNITIES

3 Fat Chicks on a Diet (http://www.3fatchicks.com). Busy forum. Still the best online community for weight loss support that I have found.

Diet Talk (http://www.diettalk.com/). This seems like a lively weight support forum, although I haven't had a chance to check out the individual posts yet.


FAT ACCEPTANCE

National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance (http://www.naafa.org/). I don't necessarily agree with fat acceptance. But here's the official site on the subject.

Thrive Online--Plus Size (http://thriveonline.oxygen.com/weight/plussize/index.html). Check out "Sexuality," a collection of stories about being a plus-size sexy chick.

Fat Acceptance Stuff (http://www.casagordita.com/fatacc.htm). A large collection of links, well-organized into categories for your viewing pleasure--sorta like this post.

Fat? So! For people who don't apologize about their size! (http://www.fatso.com/)

SizeWise (http://www.sizewise.com/) contains some neat size-related news snippets.


WEIGHT MANAGEMENT RESOURCES

Arnot Ogden Medical Center--Weight Management (http://external.aomc.org/HOD2/general/weight-Contents.html). Wow! A LOT of information on different aspects of weight management, organized like a table of contents. Comprehensive.

Fitness Partner Connection Jumpsite--Managing Your Weight (http://primusweb.com/fitnesspartner/library/weight/weight02.htm). A large collection of articles, simply and elegantly organized.

iVillage.com--Diet and Fitness (http://www.ivillage.com/diet/). Pretty standardized e-magazine fare, but seems to contain a great deal of information.

Healthy Body Calculator (http://www.dietitian.com/ibw/ibw.html). A through quiz that determines your "healthy" weight range and other things.

Food Fit (http://www.foodfit.com/). Healthful recipes and information.

At Home with Richard (http://www.richardsimmons.com/main.asp). Richard Simmons' web site. So delightfully cheesy, you MUST visit!


PERSONAL STORIES Here's where wading through dozens of pages of BAD web design came into play. I picked sites that had a pleasing design, in addition to content.

Cat/Astrophe* (http://www.geocities.com/Wellesley/Garden/2723/) (formerly known as Pink Pig Scribbles). The best web design I have seen in a long time. Simply beautiful!

Such a Pretty Face (http://nodltd.com/leigh/is/fat/). Stunning web design and a good collection of fat-acceptance related links.

Cat's House of Fun (http://www.catay.com/cat/index.html). A FUN and artistic page featuring photo collections of this decidedly "healthy" female. Impressive. Check out "All time worst photos!"

I'm Fat...For Now (http://www.niagara.com/~jgosh/). Cute site, and this chick has let go of over 90 pounds this past year!

Blue Collar Diva (http://members.aol.com/BlueCollarDiva/home.htm). Includes the Diva's story on weight loss surgery.

One Fat Man (http://www.onefatman.com). Fred has lost 125 pounds since May and met his wife on the Internet too!

Pound--It's flesh (http://www.poundy.com/). A wicked sense of humor makes it worth a visit. Check out "the fugly side of Sears."

*****

It has been a very good week. Being smoke-free, after the first four days, has been wonderful for my energy levels! I've been doing reasonably well, but I'm motivated and ready to move to a different level.

After well over a year of sane eating, I still have a hard time putting BALANCE into my diet. I realize that even though I have been sugar-free, my fat intake is out of control. So I worked up a little chart as a guideline for my daily food intake. It looks like this:

http://www.shapeshakers.com/calories.gif

The way it works is that for each meal, I broke down not only the total calories for the meal but the number and percentage of fat, protein, and carbohydrate calories. Of course, I don't plan to follow this chart exactly but it give me some general idea of what I'm doing, at a glance, instead of staying in the dark. I might have to adjust the percentages over time, also.

1800 calories is a healthy level for me. I always try to eat less and end up shooting myself down. I also have a big problem with skipping meals...I would rather not eat than have to deal with the choices and temptations. Well, tonight I was tempted to skip, but instead I had a big bowl of frozen strawberries and plain yogurt, with Splenda. I was still hungry so I made myself a rather interesting salad of carrots sliced with a potato peeler, mayo, raisins, almonds and a bit of lemon juice. I had a bit of that with a slice of cheese. So maybe it wasn't perfect but it's certainly better than the pure cheese/carb meals I've been having lately. :(

The next step is the gym. I have been doing moderately well for about three weeks now, going three to four times a week for 20 to 40 minutes each time. But I really want to kick things up to a new level as I said. So my new guideline (not a rule to beat myself over the head with) is to do 1 hour of cardio, 6 days a week, and 2 upper body strength training sessions in addition. I'm also going to do abs the minute I wake up in the morning, 7 days a week! All of this is going to be a real challenge to me because it's much more than I've been doing lately. But like being smoke-free, after a few days it will be much easier. The main thing is to get started. I did quite well today by starting my 50 situps, but my abs were so weak that I had to go to crunches after about 15! Then I put in my full hour. I started off on the recumbant stationary bike but my butt got sore so I moved to the elliptical crosstrainer. I get bored really easily so I brought a couple of professional journals to read at the same time. That slowed down the pace of my workout but kept me from going crazy, and I learned some good information too!

So one day down! I have a lot more changes I'm going to make but that will do for now. I feel really good for the first time in a long time.

Love,

Chris

Good Saturday Morning~

I woke way too early and could not get back to sleep. Well I hope you all have a wonderful weekend. It will be a busy one here. Need to get to the store and purchase some more chicken for my friends wedding!

If I do take a picture to post, where would I post it? I don't know a thing about computers... So any help would be appreciated.

I was bad last night, but plan on getting 100% back on plan.

Anyway I'd better run, lots to do.

Oh I noticed the time is off on this site. I never post late at night?(Confused)

Hugs~
Cathy

But it's raining, too bad. This is a quick one, I am truly going to the gym in a few minutes. I only went twice this past week, and I don't like missing too many days.

Laurie: I totally understand about sleeping better when your son isn't home. When mine is home, even though he's 27, I worry. Now why don't I worry all the time, because he lives in New Orleans and I am sure he's out late there also! Mothers are funny.

Mary: I will be in Baton Rouge Friday and Saturday. The only problem is that I am at the mercy of my friend's schedule, which seems to be jampacked at the moment. I visit a lot, so let's plan to get together the next time. I will make sure not to be in such a hurry then.

Chris: I have been smoke-free for 3 months now. It isn't that hard after the first month, and I know I feel much better. I wouldn't even attempt exercise while I was smoking, so smoking was not a weight loss tool for me. I know some people think it helps. Keep it up, and I will too.

BOB: I am jealous of your great buy on the cookware, and I also love to watch Scarlett eat barbecue. She seemed to be able to suck in her gut pretty well when Mammy started lacing her up though...don't think I could do that!

Oops, the man is here to look at my air conditioner, it won't be long until we need it here.

More newbie confusion: Should I have started a new thread for Saturday, or do we just reply to the last message wherever it happens to be?

Have a sugarfree weekend, everyone!

IT'S BEAUTIFUL HERE ON THE WEST COAST OF FLA

Hope everyone is having a great start of the weekend.
Mine will be spent INDOORS because I have to get started with my housecleaning. My DB and the INSPECTOR GENERAL will be here on Good Friday, and that only gives me TWO WEEKENDS to get my house in order. I don't have that much to do, just NO TIME TO DO IT!

CHRIS: Thanks SO much for all the great links. AND NO YOU DON"T LOOK LIKE THE LADY EATING THE CHIPS!
Did you quit smoking COLD TURKEY? or are you using the patch? AHEM I'm a smoker, and have been toying with the patch idea.

I got hold of a copy of CALORIES DON'T COUNT by Dr Herman Taller. This book comes from research he began after WWII because of his OWN weight problem. He promotes good carbs, more protein..NO WHITE THINGS...In a sense, he was one of the pioneers of the WOE that we do today! There are only
about three others before him starting in the 1800's...This WOE has been around for a long time, and YES, my Mother has now told me that this was one of the MANY diets that I was on back in the 60's! She says that it worked great, but as with anything else, the minute I started eating all the WHITE THINGS, my
weight came back!
I'm going to start using some of the info from the book for Tuesday Facts. If you can get your little hands on a copy of this, for no other reason than to read the history, IT'S AMAZING TO SAY THE LEAST

Deb: I hope your eye area is better! Just keep the area moist so it won't crack!

Ladies, I'll address everyone later....If I don't get up from here NOW, I will still be sitting here this time tomorrow!

DEBBIE: NOT YELLING...JUST WANT YOU TO READ THIS! WHAT DO YOU SAY ABOUT HAVING A "AMAZING PAST POSTS" AREA?
It would be a thread dedicated to a post that someone does whree the info is SO AMAZINGLY HELPFUL that we don't want to lose it! It would be a "move only" thing that YES, would give you JUST ONE MORE THING TO DO.
No one would be able to reply is my point...it would just be moved there for easy access...

GOTTA GO...
Later
BOB

Margaret: No, you don't have to start a new thread. We do that on Monday's only, and Debbie gets us started with her "intro" page about the forum.
Just ALWAYS reply anytime you want to post.
Have a GREAT DAY!

Happy Weekend everybody--

I am amazed at the amount of posts!! WoW!! I've been reading all week, but haven't been able to post. Busy Busy Busy...

First DEBELLI...how does it feel to be starting your SECOND year of SB??? I am impressed with you. You are an inspiration to soooooo many people. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Hope your eyes clear up soon. Skin irrations are hard to diagnose. My mom had something similar and I believe the dr. prescribed a cream steroid, but he didn't really know for sure what caused it. How is Eli doing with the clinical trial for cholesterol? A friend of mine suggested taking 500 mg of niacin a day to reduce cholesterol. I'm going to do a bit of research on this and ask my gyn in may (he is the closest thing I have to a family dr!!). I read your delimma with Lauren and buying clothes that are too tight. I'm not a parent, but I can remember the arguements my mom and I had about clothes. I'm sure as a parent you pick your battles...maybe this one is one to avoid? Let her wear what she likes (within reason of course) and hope she realizes for herself. Of course the problem is spending the $$$ and then she may decide she wants something else....guess I'm not much help! I copied your Friday facts and emailed it to my friends who would be interested. Thanks for posting it...it applies to me def!! I feel like my thighs look like cottage cheese in some places! That article helped put my thighs in perspective!!Where did you find the info?

GATOR GAL...I think last week it was you that tried to go to my stamping site...sometimes yahoo has a bit of trouble loading...here's the addy again if you're still interested... http://stampcreations.homestead.com I had a typo last time! Hope this works for you.

SparkleScamp..Great picture!!! You are so photogenic! I can see you are really dedicated to your health too. Keep up the good work. I enjoyed checking out some of the links you posted. Sounds like you really are kicking things up a notch with your workout schedule.

Cathy H....if you go to your profile and then choose edit options, you can change the time to match your time zone. I think the default is either England time zone or Greenwich Mean Time. How was the wedding? Weddings are so exciting...starting a new life and declaring your love in front of all your friends...and it is so special when it is a dear friend of yours. I can't stand going to a wedding of ppl I don't really know and was only invited b/c they work with my husband or something like that.

debstahl...so glad your septic problem is resolved. No one tells you owning a home means one thing after another that needs to be maintained. I try to put it in perspective...I'm lucky to be able to own a home and have the means to fix something if it breaks down. Although I don't know what we'd do if we had a problem like yours!!! I'd be calling my parents for a loan!!!

amseraphim..hope you had a good time in FLA. I admire you for being on the treadmill for an hour. One day I hope I post the same message!!! I started doing 35 minutes, now I'm up to 45 minutes, and I just know 60 min. will be in my future!! I don't pressure myself, otherwise I'll start to resent it. Thank God for my bookholder! It keeps me going!!


Quilter...thanks for sharing your lasagna story!!!! I'm glad I shared my story and it had an impact on you. Yes, this board is the best as far as support goes. So, how was the lasagna???? And HOW WAS STAMPING?? Did you enjoy it?? I'm stamping this weekend...i have to make 20 birthday invitations for a friend (her hubby is giving her a surprise party but I have to help every step of the way). I went to a stamping party this week and it was so fun and inspiring!! I'll get a card out to you sometime in April. I hope your friend doesn't get too bad of a reaction to the chemo. There are so many different kinds of chemo and ppl react so differently. It just sucks. Jungle Jims sounds soooooo cool. Here in the sticks we have nothing like that. I'm just greatful we have a HFS!!

Hi margaret A...welcome! I'm sure the fried shrimp wasn't harmful enough to sabotage the work you've invested in this WOE. As everyone says, its important to get back on the wagon right away. This board will help keep you motivated and excited about following SB. Wish we had a spring break!!! My kids (first graders) are sooooooo chatty!! We only have about 54 days of school left and I know they are going to fly by!! Also, as far as the abbreviations, WW can mean weight watchers but it can also mean whole wheat. SGWW means stone ground whole wheat. Those abbreviations can throw you for a loop!
If you want to find some cool pics to attach, just use a search engine to search for free clip art. There are thousands of sites to choose from!!! :)


VIV...I've missed your lovely sense of humor on the boards. Hope you FLA trip refreshes you! I'm anxious to hear the results of your dad's biopsy. Cancer used to equal death..but no longer!!! Still its impossible not to worry. You've got lots of ppl pulling for you and I'm convinced that makes a difference.

MELF..glad you're feeling better. I'm sure the signs of spring must make you feel good too! I'm looking forward to them here in the poconos!!!

BIGORANGE...my DH is on a mission to find new cookware. He found an Emeril pan on sale and has been happy with that so far. We have scan pans from some scandanavian country but they are getting pitted or something so Pete wants something new.

To everyone else...have a great sugar free weekend!! And keep on posting :)

I am making peanut butter cookies from one of the recipe boards. The dough has to chill so I'll let you know how they turn out later :)

My secret is kinda out at school that I'm following a low sugar WOE. PPL are interested. I'm just kinda pointing them in the right direction. It will be interesting to see what develops!

BBL
Ashley

AFTERNOON EVERYBUDDY :D

ASHLEY
My GYN perscribed the exact same thing. The only difference? NIASPAN which is by perscription and is a "timed released" vs the over the counter kind. Cuts down on the "flushing". ALSO mix up some METAMUCIL the orange flavor sugar free version to take your pill with. The combo of the two promotes the cholesterol lowering agent. It works..my triglycerides were 438 and I brought them down to 189
in two months! I'm about to get back on the combo myself after visiting the Dr this month. Not because she asked me too, but because I don't want them to creap back up!
Way to go on that TREADMILL...I'm not up to that time yet, but on my way!

Later,

BOB
aka:THE BIG ORANGE BABE!

Between my work deadlines, home life, and having something resembling the stomach flu, the week zoomed by. I think I finally have been able to read through most of the posts this week.

A few quick answers to questions:

Yes, I live in So. California where Spring means summer is just around the corner.

When I go out for sf, nf ice cream it comes from Baskin Robbins. They have vanilla nonfat, sugar free soft serve. There are other options, most have chocolate and/or coffee in them and unfortunately those are in my life any more. (I used to be totally hooked on Starbucks as there is one down the street from my house).

Congratulations to all who lost weight, maintained weight and/or gained a little. For the accomplishment is that we are all continuing to eat healthier than be for. I got an email this week and clipped part of it as it really puts things in perspective. It reads like this:

A man found a cocoon of a butterfly. One day a
small opening appeared. He sat and watched
the butterfly for several hours as it struggled
to force its body through that little hole.

Then it seemed to stop making any progress.
It appeared as if it had gotten as far as it could,
and it could go no further.

So the man decided to help the butterfly.
He took a pair of scissors and snipped off
the remaining bit of the cocoon.

The butterfly then emerged easily.
But it had a swollen body and small,
shriveled wings.

The man continued to watch the butterfly
because he expected that, at any moment,
the wings would enlarge and expand to be able to
support the body, which would contract in time.

Neither happened! In fact, the butterfly
spent the rest of its life crawling around
with a swollen body and shriveled wings.
It never was able to fly.

What the man, in his kindness and haste,
did not understand was that the restricting
cocoon and the struggle required for the butterfly
to get through the tiny opening were God's way of
forcing fluid from the body of the butterfly into its
wings so that it would be ready for flight once
it achieved its freedom from the cocoon.

Sometimes struggles are exactly what we
need in our lives. If God allowed us to
go through our lives without any obstacles,
it would cripple us.

We would not be as strong as what we
could have been.
We could never fly!

With this have a wonderful weekend and I will see you all Monday morning!


Lara

Hello everyone,

I have not yet begun SB. I just ordered the book. I am looking forward though to reading everyone's success. Speak soon!

Happy Saturday Everyone!:wave:

Finally have a few minutes to post before I hop into the shower (please, don't try to visualize this). Went to some garage sales this morning, bought a few items, one was a really nice silk jacket type of blouse (can't figure out how to describe it), it needs a shell/tank underneath, and I just so had bought one 2 weeks ago-looks great together.

Scale moved down again, hit 133, finally. Just weighed myself now, still at that weight, even after eating today-but I think it's a DOOKIE HOUSER issue that I finally got rid of that helped. Hoping the scale goes down again tomorrow!:^:

MELF, I hope you STAR & MARGARET can meet soon! It's so much fun when you do. Always nice to put a name with a face. If you do, you MUST take pictures!!!! The old board members are no longer around, pity, but they are always welcome back!

BIGO, congrats on the bargains, you KNOW how I love a good deal!! It's in my blood!:lol: I, like you, love to strip and get comfey in my nightie when I know I'm in for the night. I need to get some new cookware too, from now on it's stainless steel, Eli has really messed up my nonstick pans. Hope you enjoyed watching GWTW. Nice LONNNNGGGGG movie! I will do a survey of the board on the amazing posts question-would you be willing to keep it up if it is given a thumbs-up???

CHERI, thanks for the message for Sharon, I will relay it to her. It's always hard going through a divorce, but people just want to make it harder than it has to be, dragging it out and having it get nasty. Hey 1 pound more and you'll be under the 275 mark-great milestone!!! Actually, getting to 275 is also a great milestone-and there's more to come!!!

IAMAP, thanks for the congrats, I appreciate it. Hey, you may still make your goal, and if not, it's not a big deal being 1-2 pounds away. I always set a EOM goal for myself and never make it, but come within 1-2 pounds, and that's okay, I know I will get there soon enough.

SPARKLE, what a wonderful picture-you are adorable! Thanks for sharing it with the board, it's always nice to put a name with a face. Thanks for all those wonderful thoughts-but I couldn't do it without the support of all of those on this board. Remember, our entire life is a learning process, and what you've learned from past experiences helps you become a better person, not only to yourself, but to others as well. I surely don't mind you sharing anything from this board to your OA board-no matter what we are doing to lose weight, we're still in the same big boat together! Thanks for sharing all those great FF, that must of taken a long time to compile and I really appreciate you posting it for us. Congrats on day 4 of being smoke free. You have too pretty of a face and complexion to be smoking anyhow-I've seen what years of smoking can do to a pretty face, not to mention lungs!:eek: Keep up the great work. Conquering 2 devils at the same time-way to go! Loved the chart! Sounds like you are getting things together for yourself and really taking care of YOU! Try to cut out those raisins, very high in sugars-carrots are too, but raw in small amounts are okay - I know, baby steps!!!

CATHY, I can help you do the picture, but if it's small enough in bytes you can post it right onto the board when you reply-otherwise, send it to me as an attachment via e-mail. I had trouble getting QUILTERS for some reason, but haven't had trouble with other peoples. Would love to see your pic!!! Have fun at the wedding, throwing chicken instead of rice???:lol:

MARGARET, hope you got to the gym and enjoyed your work-out. As BIGO mentioned, we start a new weekly board every Monday. There is always a link at the end of the old board for the new board.

OVERCOME, hmm, starting my 2nd year, wow, that makes it sound so long that way! Just another day it seems, happy to be getting closer to goal and looking forward to others following in my footsteps soon. Thanks for the reminder about Eli's chol. thing, have to remind him to remember to call for an appt! Found the info for the FF on the web, always surfing for interesting things. My thighs are awful, just think of an elephants thighs, and you can figure out mine are the same, just lily white!:eek: PB cookies-legal ones??

LDBLOND, I've seen the butterfly story in the past, it's always nice to re-read it. Loved the Snoopy pic!!!!! Have a great weekend!!

GUESSWHO, WELCOME TO OUR BOARD Please don't hesitate to ask any questions in regards to this WOE or anything to do with the book. The gals on the board are extremely supportive and eager to help all newbies out. Looking forward to having you join us and learning more about you. Where in NY are you?

Well gals, my honey is off tonight so we are going out, not sure where, but somewhere-hope Ole Ole, in the mood for a salad!

I'll check in tonight or tomorrow sometime after my walk.

Have a good one!

Debbie
194/133/129 (4lbs til goal and counting!)
Miami, FL

Thank you for the welcome that is very kind.

I live in Westchester county New York. I teach in the south Bronx. Someone has to live the glamorous life! I have recently become engaged and in June I will move to Sweden to be with him. Come and visit.

I have lost 50lbs..simply by cutting out all sugars and cutting back of course on some types of fatty foods and lots of exercise.

I have stopped losing though. Mainly because I have stopped exercising and probably a bit of stress. It's a hard school year and I am waiting for my permit to move to Sweden. Long process! I do know I am addicted to sweets. I love sugar and I know there is a huge difference im my moods when I am off and/or on sugar. So I have just purchased the book and it should be delievered to me by Monday maybe Tuesday. I am looking forward to beginning and I am thrilled to have found this site. I hope that this will be the extra edge I need to good health.

Have great weekend!

Well I was able to get out & walk this morning. Got my 3.3 miles done in 50 minutes. Scale still said 162 this am, so if it does again tomorrow am, I'm going to claim it!


Debbie, Thanks for the email about all the helpful hints. Some of those are really neat ideas. Kinna scarey about the uses of Coke though, huh? I use to drink 1 or 2 DCF cokes a day, but since Jan, I can probably count all the cokes I've had on 1 hand! I am doing better about drinking water too.

Cheri, Congrads on getting to that 275 milestone! Way to go Girl! You are really doing great.

SparkleScamp, Nice pix! Great to be able to visualize what other people on this board looks like. You were really busy posting last night :) Thanks for the links. Some interesting ones there, including your OA board.

BOB, very interesting about your book CALORIES DON'T COUNT. I sure didn't realize that this WOE idea has been around that long. INSPECTOR GENERAL coming, eh??? :lol:

MargaretA, that's ok about not having time to meet next week cause I'm working those 2 days, but we definetily need to plan something next time you're in the area.

OVERCOME, Thanks for posting what SGWW means... that's one I had NOT been able to figure out at all...I knew it was WW flour, but the SG threw me...:)

ldblond, Thanks for posting that wonderful inspirational butterfly story. I read this before, but it was good reading it again because it really does fit us here on this board. "Sometimes struggles are exactly what we
need in our lives." This is soooooooo true & sometimes we fail to see that it is to our benefit that we need to go through certain things in order to get stronger. Thanks again.

Danielle, WELCOME! Glad you found us. You'll like this great group of gals on this board. They are all inspirational & supportive. Looking forward to getting to know you & reading more of your posts.

Well, my break has been long enough, time to get back to my house cleaning. No inspector General coming here, but DH just came in from his yard work & gave me the "eye" :lol:

Hubby and I went to our little mall here in Burlington today and did a little shopping. I am busting at the seams, pun intended, to say that I am down a cup size from last summer and 4 inches in "girth." I was also able to buy some adorable size 12 pants! WOOO HOOOO! I never thought I'd see size 12 again!!

Hubby was very excited for me too. I vene got a little teary in the dressing room.

Just wanted to share my fun day at the mall.

DEB "Dookie Howser?" That was cracking me up. That's better than us referring to constipation as "packing dookie." :laughing:

SPARKLE You Wahine Babe! You're adorable! (No mahalo neceassary!) It's fun to have someone on the board who is about the same size and weight. We both even have short hair. I however do not live in an island paradise!! We visited Oahu in the summer of 99 and I cried on the way to the airport 'cause I didn't want to leave. I listen to Hawaiin music at work on the internet and have several CDs of traditional Hawaiin music here at home. We try to have "Aloha Friday" here and when we're stressed we mentally go to Hawaii. You are so blessed to live where you do. Would love to talk more about it sometime.

MELF It was good to see you on the board!

Gotta run 'cause Duke is playing b-ball on the tube.

Peace,
Frog

Hello all-

Well the cookie dough (yes, its LEGAL...I'm using agave nectar and SGWW flour!) is still chilling in the fridge...haven't gotten to it yet! Looks like it'll be tomorrow night. I got the recipe from one of the recipe boards awhile ago. I went to look for it today but I don't think I see any other recipe boards, except March. Is this right Deb?

I just spent a loooong time stamping 20 invitations to my friends surprise birthday party. It was fun but now I have a big mess to clean up!

I wanted to share this link to cookierecipes.com which has its very own section for sugar free cookies! Just skimmed it so I don't know the particulars, but there is bound to be something!

http://allrecipes.com/directory/2371.asp

Of course we'd need to sub. SGWW flour for the nasty white stuff.

BIG ORGANGE...thanks for sharing the info on the niacin. I bought some at CVS that does say time release on the bottle...I'm still going to ask my gyn. I don't know if I could drink the Metamucil with it though....:p

GuessWho...welcome! Many ppl will tell you that there are plateaus that come along with this WOE. Hang in there! There was a post not too long ago about that. Anyone remember where/when?? I'm a teacher too (first grade). I'm worlds away from the Bronx though! Rural Pocono Mts.

ldblond..thanks so much for the poem. I had never heard it before. It has a wonderful message. I am going to really try to keep that in mind when I am struggling with anything, not just food!

I'm so HAPPY...Pete (DH) works at night during ski season. Tonight is his LAST night. He's back to days. Whoppee! No more nights alone :) I'm sure he'll start driving me crazy in no time but nevertheless...we're happy :love:


Good night..
Ashley

Good evening everyone!

I have been doing taxes today :( I absolutley hate doing them. At least mine are done. Now tomorrow I have to do my moms. Better than having H&R do them. They told me yesterday it would cost me $150. I said, "No way, I'll do them myself!"

I did get in a mile walk today. It was great. I think my back and ankle felt a little better today.

Thanks for everyone's support. I hope everyone will have a great day tomorrow.

Welcome GuessWho. You'll definitely get lots of support here. Everyone is so motivational. Moving to Sweden sounds very exciting. I wish you and your future husband all the best happiness. And congratulations on your 50 lb loss.

Melf: 3.3 miles. That's great. I am giving myself a goal to do 5 miles by the end of summer. I want to be able to do it in 75 minutes. I don't know if I'll get there by then but I'm going to try.

Frog: Size 12 pants, that is wonderful! I'd be crying in the dressing room too. Congratulations!

Overcome: I don't know how long it took you to stamp 20 invitations, but when I started my Memory Book for my Grandson, it took me 2 hours to do one page. You must be exhausted.

SparkleScamp: Thanks for posting your picture. It's great to be able to put a face to your name. Also, thanks for all the links you gave us. I haven't had time to look at all of them, but I definitely will.

Cathy H: Have fun at your friend's wedding and don't worry too much about your bad evening. You're right back on track and that's what counts.

MargaretA: Congratulations on your 3 months being smoke free. I know it must be tough making all those changes at once (this woe and smoking). You are doing great!

Ashley: Let us know how the PB cookies turn out. They are making my mouth water just thinking about them :)

Idblond: Thanks for the poem. You're right it does put everything into perspective.

Debbie: Congratulations on having the scale move down to 133. 4 more pounds until you're at your goal. That is totally awsome! It seems like such a long road to get where you are today. I went up a pound again today. My mom said she's going to hide the scales because I get so upset. I like to see what is happening to my weight everyday though.

BOB: What a terrific deal on the pan. I saw some at the Lazrus here in Indy. I need new pans when I moved. After looking at the price I :eek: I looked elsewhere :)

Laurie: Congratulations on you weightloss and your walking. You are doing great. A couple pounds away from your goal is pretty good I think. Keep up the good work!

Kim: I found another Starbucks. It's really close to my house and may be the one your brother was talking about. It's on 82nd street just before the Castleton mall and after the Shell station (going west). It opened not long ago.

Everyong have a great day tomorrow.

Cheri

Cathy H, there are two ways to post a picture: attaching it and posting it (putting it in the message). There is a size limit on attachments and you should be courteous and keep the file size small (under 50KB) for posting too. To post, when you reply, look for something on the left called "forum rules." Look for a link called "vB code is on. It will tell you everything you need to know. To post you need to have your image uploaded into a web space. If you don't know how to do that you should attach. To attach, look at the bottom of the reply window for "attach file."

Margaret A, it's raining in Hawaii too which is completely unfair and immoral. We are supposed to have perfect weather all the time! ;) Smoking made me too tired to exercise at my best but I did it anyway!

BOB, I never smoked heavily but it's still not easy, because my roommate smokes constantly. Don't apologize for smoking...it took me a long time to get motivated to quit.

I think your star posts thread idea is a good one, but I can see where that would put additional responsibilities on Debbie. If she agrees, is there some way you can do the maintenence? In the other forum I post on some of the forums have co-moderators, which is one option so that you can access the administrative features (move, copy, split, etc.) I know I'm still a newbie so I hope I'm not stepping on any toes, just tossing around ideas.

I loved your matroshka doll gif. I have a small collection of real ones from my visit to Russia in 1997.

Overcome, congrats about coming out of the closet about your lifestyle....your sugar free lifestyle that is! Thanks for sharing that link, although I don't think I can handle cookies yet!

Idblond, I loved the butterfly story! I have a small ice cream maker and have developed an easy recipe for sugar free but nice and fat ice cream that's just out of this world. I usually make vanilla and strawberry (never chocolate).

Debbie, once again your post was an inspiration. I can tell you don't want to spend money on clothes!!! I'm the same way but hey! You're pretty much at your goal and you look fab, splurge a little. I got a couple funky, unusual blouses from Goodwill recently. I usually shop at Ross, I don't know if you have those over there but it's an "off" quality outlet store. The best thing I got recently were two pairs of cotton pants, I can't remember if I posted about those already. But so comfy and good for work or play. I have been dying for a pair of sporty looking casual shoes, they are Sketchers and racy black and silver, about $45, but I can't find them in my size anywhere on this island and I called just about everywhere. So I got a funky looking pair of Aerosoles at Ross, they aren't quite pumps and not quite sneakers, kinda in between, black, for $17 on clearance so that satisfied my urge for the time being.

About the raisins and carrots well one thing at a time. I can see where the raisins are high-sugar and they definitely need to be a garnish only. I try not to get freaky about stuff like putting a couple of teaspoons of brown sugar in my bbq sauce tonight. But the best thing I did in my sugar abstinence was (mostly) cutting out fruit juice. I think I've had two small cups of oj in the past two months. That was a huge source of hidden calories that did nothing to fill me up.

Guess Who, welcome! and congrats on the 50 lbs. Sounds like you know what to do....but it's not always so easy is it? Good luck and what inspires me is that so many of these lovely ladies reached their goal! So I know I can too.

Melf, great job on the walking! Keep it up!

Frog, I know very well the estatic feeling of fitting into a size 12!!!!! Wow! It's like the magic cutoff number between "normal" clothes and hideous orange and green tents. What a head-spinning experience. I am a size 12 still yet (for a year now :( ) and lost a cup size too! I hope that we can both continue to make steady progress...together!

Cheri45, I haven't done my taxes yet (sigh). I asked my boss for a day off of work to do them but she didn't like that idea much. ;)

I had a whirlwind of a day today. Started off with a small but worthwhile OA meeting. Then I went to this little booksale on the other side of the island. Almost all the books are only 5 for $1!!!! It's only a couple hours a week so I usually miss it. I picked up an entire huge box, as much as I could carry, for the price of one book that I got at the mall last week. I got biographies (Nixon, Kennedy, Anne Frank, Ghandi, Roseanne (formerly Barr/Arnold), etc.), a few novels that looked promising and lots of rather outdated but hopefully still useful books on finance and real estate.

Then after a little shopping and family time I spent the entire evening cooking. *Whew.* I'm so excited because I made some 9-grain bread that turned out onolicious. We have a breadmaker that was a total score at a garage sale...$5 brand-new! Wow! I was all excited about using it but haven't had the energy to do anything but white bread. And before my sugar abstinence, I *accidentally* ate almost a whole loaf. That killed the breadmaker phase! So I finally went to the health food store and took some action. My recipe, which I modified from the breadmaker book, contains a coarse-grained 9-grain cereal and a hefty handful of wheat bran. It has some white flour (don't shoot me) but turned out quite filling and with that appropriate "healthful" taste. ;) My roommate even ate some...normally he doesn't touch what he terms my STRANGE food...like the omelette I made with raw oatmeal this morning! (yummy)

I find that I feel best when I eat balanced meals (I don't mean 33% each food group, but according to my own balance, see food chart above.) I have tried very low carbs but always end up feeling kinda crazy after a while. So my challenge lately is finding ways to get "healthful" carbs into my diet...I find it easier to ignore them altogether! ;) The whole wheat flour and 9-grain cereal (used for baking) are a start. Also oatmeal, and more starchy veggies like carrots and peas instead of potatoes. This way of life is going to take much more planning than I have been putting into my meals!

Well, I'm going to take a nap and if I feel like it, go out dancing tonight purely for exercise (drinking diet coke). There are some advantages to being single and free!

Lots of love,

Chris

Hey Ladies,

Quick note to everyone! It's late (actually early 1:15 a.m) and the Sandman is calling my name!

Hope everyone is having a great weekend. I'm looking forward to starting week 4 on SB. It's getting easier everday!

DEB: One thing I had a hard time giving up is my cereal. I was a rice crispies and frosted flake addict. I bought a box of Kashi tonight. I'll try it for breafast in the morning!

MELF AND MARGARET: Anytime you are in Baton Rouge, look me up. I would very much enjoy meeting you. That goes for anyone that comes to the Baton Rouge / New Orleans are. LOOK ME UP! I'm hard to miss!!!!!

BIG ORANGE BABE: Haven't kept up with the news the past few days. Are there any SEC teams left in the playoffs?

See you guys,
Star

WHAT A BEAUTIFUL DAY HERE ON THE WEST COAST OF FLA :D

FROG: CONGRATS ON THE SIZE 12 I know you must be doing the happy dance! I just hope you're still dancing afte DUKE plays MARYLAND....I'll keep my fingers crossed for you...

ASHLEY: Please try to use the METAMUCIL, it's the combo of the two that make everything click. It's really not so bad, I mix mine up in a juice size glass, pop my
niacin and then drink it down. It's definately not a sipping drink! Just be sure to look for the SUGAR FREE one!

LARA: I'm not an icecream person for which I'm very grateful. Sounds like they have really adjusted their menu to accomodate the latest WOE though. NOT A STARBUCKS FAN? BOO HISS Don't worry though, I DRINK ENOUGH FOR BOTH OF US!

DEB: I swear, I'm putting a jar out today to catch all my extra change, then I'm coming down there and go to these GARAGE SALES with you!
Yes, I would be willing to keep up the new thread. BE WARNED THOUGH you will have to teach me the basics of moving the posts...I'M NOT COMPUTER SAVY AT ALL! but, am willing to learn

GUESSWHO: WELCOME You're doing great already, so keep it up. The book will bring a wealth of knowledge, plus everyone here will help you all we can!

MARY: It's just awful to feel this way just because my SIL is coming, but I just can't help it! I'd much rather make the 100 mile trip to their condo in Naples, but SHE has decided they will be coming here AND SPEND THE NIGHT!!

CHRIS: Sounds like we have a lot in common. I LOVE BREAD...any kind...any how.... I have a bread machine, but have never used it...that's a good thing though...
My problem with smoking? I really enjoy it! (I can see Deb's face as I type!) and I know that until I'm really ready to quit, there is no use to try! BUT, I'm going to have to make the effort....$30 for a carton! WHEW...that would make a lot of SB meals!

STAR: NO SEC TEAMS LEFT!! BUT, the South is still represented by DUKE...guess we'll have to help FROG cheer for the team!

Well, I must go...today is BATH DAY FOR SKEETER
It's so hard to get him in the tub, but once he's there, he really enjoys it!

KIM: Your girls team beat the BIG ORANGE GIRLS....BOO HOO!! Where have you been this weekend?

Later everybuddy!!!

BOB

Mornin’ Friends!!!

So sorry I haven’t been around much over the past couple days. We are still in the middle of our Spring Purge and must strike while the iron is hot and before everything becomes sentimental again. But you all have been in my thoughts that’s for sure!!!

ROSALIE---Did you know that Leslie Sansone has an infomercial out now? It’s one of those 30 minutes deals and it’s for something called Walk off the Weight or Walk of the Pounds or something like that. You get 3 new tapes; 1- 2- and 3-mile. And she has some sort of 10-day eating plan that gives menus and that sort of thing. It looks pretty good and I think it’s only 39.95. Also, we loved Crouching Tiger/Hidden Dragon. It was really wonderful. I was a little leary about whether or not Paul and our friends would like it, but they said they did. (I know how some ppl don’t like subtitles, but I don’t mind them at all.) Thanks for the recommendation.

CHERI---So glad you hopped up on those scales again. Sometimes it makes a world of difference. I’ve been weighing everyday and really like it. The thought that EVERY morning I’m going to get on it really makes me think twice about what I eat. Thanks also for your good thoughts about Jackie. It helps to know that there are so many ppl all over the country pulling for her complete recovery. I think I know that Starbucks. I think that’s the one we passed when we went to Outback that night last month.

GATOR---I have really tried to follow what’s going on with the tournaments but it’s too much for me. Do you follow the women’s teams at all. I heard last night that the Xavier University women beat the Vols (so sorry ORANGE!!!). XU is right here in Cincinnati and kind of a small school. I’m always glad to see the underdogs win a few.

FROG---I so agree with everything you said about the support this board gives. I find you such an inspiration. Thanks for being there with bits of wisdom and tips for us to live by. Also enjoyed the article about evercise allergies. I don’t get hives, but it seems like everytime I start up with some regular routine, I get a cold or some sort of sinus thing and have to stop until that clears up. The last time I was exercising every day was when I came down with that horrible flue that we all had. I must admit I’m a little gunshy to get started again. Size 12 pants??? I just read that and have to say “YOU ROCK!!!” That’s great. Go ahead and get a big head. You deserve it!!!! I am eager to get into a 14, but can’t even imagine the feeling of zipping some 12s.



DEB---I can really relate with what you are saying about the overweight teen. I’ve been on the upside of the scale my whole life. Actually, I think my first 3 years were okay and then the love of food just got to me. Anyways, I remember having the fights with my mom about me wanting to wear something that was definitely NOT good for my body shape and size. Because I’m such a *****, she usually gave in and got it for me. Now when I look back at the pictures I see how stupid I was and how my mom was right. I’m not sure if that’s a good thing necessarily, because seeing those pictures really feeds my sense of self-loathing that pops up from time to time. Yes, the pictures are funny now, but I remember being so uncomfortable in those short skirts and hip-hugger jeans. I knew that I didn’t look like I wanted to look, but really felt helpless. I think I would have taken fashion advice from somebody else (like a respected aunt or maybe somebody a little older who dressed cool) better than from my mom. Too bad they don’t have places for teens to go to have makeovers and learn the basics for their body shapes. Also, thanks for the info on fat and health. Told DH he needs to get serious about his health with his waistline being over 39 inches. Last night at the movies he got a big old thing of popcorn. I just looked at him, but knew nagging is NOT the way to encourage. But I didn’t eat any which made me feel good. Have to say that I thought it smelled terrible. I must be getting the SB nose!!!

MELF---Hope you are feeling better and that those nasty “runs” took a hike. Doesn’t sound like much fun.

MARGARETA---Hope your spring break is wonderful. Relax and take time to pat yourself on the back for being part of such a noble profession. I applaud you!!! You made me LOL about your interpretaiton of TOM. Really funny.

ORANGE---I think you and I have the same taste in movies. GWTW was my favorite for such a long time. You’ve got to really appreciate how long ago it was made and what all they had to do. Did you ever see the Carol Burnette spoof of it? Man, that is funny! How’s Skeeter boy??? Is he behaving? I went out into the kitchen this morning and saw that there was an empty ww pasta box laying in the middle of the floor. It had been in the garbage but “somehow” had been moved. Hmmmmm. I’m betting on the four-legged daughter. Sometimes she just can’t help herself and gets those dog tendencies back. You got a great deal on that skillet! Way to go! Hey, I’d love to hear some facts from that book you found. Isn’t it amazing how this way of eating has been around for a long while, but just hasn’t gotten the notoriety of other programs. I really appreciate how you are out there always looking for information and willing to share. Keep up the reading!!!!

SPARKLE---I just have to say that I am impressed with your chart. That’s real work you put into it. If you keep up this kind of work ethic on your weight loss efforts, you are sure to make your goal. Keep it up!!! You’re going to love the end results.

OVERCOME---The lasagna was fabulous. So much better than the store-bought kind. That was such a cool mini-victory for me . . . thanks to you. Also, the stamping was lots of fun. I have a card to send to you if you’d like. Jackie gave me two to bring home, so I’d really like to send one to you. I love all the little gadgets that you can get for this artwork. It’s so neat. A very peaceful thing to do if you are not under a time crunch! Also glad you’ll be cuddling with your honey now in the evenings and not with your computer any more. This also means he’ll be home to cook more. Right???

BLOND---Don’t you hate getting behind on reading the posts??? Whenever it happens I feel so “out of it” like there are things going on and I’m not part of it. Amazing!!!! Also, I loved the butterfly story. What a perfect concept!!! I’m going to send that to my friend Jackie. I’m sure she will be able to relate to it with what she’s got going on in her life. Thanks for sharing it.

GUESSWHO---Welcome to our board. You’re going to get a ton of support here. Hope you get to the book soon and can start up this wonderful WOE. Another teacher in the group??? Yippee. We love teachers!!!

Where is DIDJA??? Have we heard from her since Thursday night at the chat? Just trying to keep track.

Once again I’ve talked WAY too long, but always like to get to as many ppl as possible. To those of you I missed, just know that we are all in this together . . . a great and powerful team!!!! Hope everyone has a great Sunday. It’s back upstairs for some more purging. Between working upstairs and doing laundry in the basement, I should get a pretty good stair workout today.

Take care everyone!!
Kim
185/175/139
(down another pound for the past two days . . . I’m calling it a 10 pound loss!!)

Good Sunday Morning Everyone!:wave:

Another beautiful day here in South Florida-why can't it be like this EVERY DAY:confused: Didn't feel like walking this morning, but finally pushed myself out there and was happy once I got into it, and ended up doing my usual 4.5 miles, not fast, but a decent walk. That gave me 27 miles for the week.

Scale is down 1/2 pound, can't complain. I know TOM is just around the corner and it will go up, so I'm happy to see losses before that lovely event.

GUESSWHO, another teacher? If so, you have many collegues on this board-such a noble profession! Congrats on the engagement, and the move to Sweden, I may take you up on that offer one day! That is one place I've always wanted to go to since I am part Swedish, and I am SURE one day, I will make it there. We have neighbors from there as well, so blond and tall-and thin! 50lbs is awesome-how did you lose it, just by cutting back on sugars, or did you follow one of the diets out there? How long did it take you to lose that? Stress can cause you to stall or gain, but it may be from other things as well. Hope you are eating enough, if not, this can cause you to not lose. We'll be happy to help you sort all this out!!!

MELF, did you claim that 162 this morning? Glad to hear you got in your 3.3 miles yesterday, doing good! Glad you are doing better drinking water. If you like soda, don't forget you can get flavored seltzer water, like RITZ, it has just a hint of flavor. I like the new tea I got at Starbucks made by Tazo, the Wild Orange-yummy!

FROG, happy dancing here for you in Miami-size 12's! You go girl! I know exactly how you feel since I started trying clothes on-what a great feeling, though, sometimes, I find I REALLY like something and go try it on, only to find it's too big and they have no more smaller ones, I get a little peeved, but then think about it and I'm happy again!:spin: Before you know it, you'll be in 10's!!!!;) I was wondering who would get the Dookie Houser-we must think alike! BTW, they changed the :laughing: for :lol: I'm still learning too!!

OVERCOME, waiting for the cookie report. The March recipe board should have all the links for the old board where you can click on it. You can also do a search by putting in the key words and looking on the SB forum, then things come up easier.

CHERI, glad to hear your feeling better and got in your walk. Don't worry about the pound up, you know how that goes. I think if anyone hid my scale, I'd have withdrawls-not a good idea:rolleyes: I want to see those numbers.

SPARKLE, yep, we have Ross, TJMaxx and Marshalls-I use to go to the thrifts a lot, but not much anymore. I can find better deals at the stores, esp with Dillards having that 75% off sale recently, and Penneys. I don't like spending money on myself, and I really don't need many clothes since I don't have a job. I go for comfort, not style. It's hard to change yourself as you know-slowly but surely I will. I have the chapagne taste, but beer pockets:) That's great you are making small strides in the right direction. For some people it's a drastic change that works, others, it's little changes over time-whatever works is what's important!!! Next time you hit book sales, look for old vegetarian cookbooks, or natural cookbooks, if you like to cook. Usually you can get many good SB legal recipes from there-and ones that have honey, you can sub agave nectar for the honey. Hope you got out dancing tonight- ahhh, to be young again!!!!

STAR, hope you liked your new found cereal-let us know what you thought about it. Which Kashi did you choose?? Boy, you sure were up late!!!

BIGO, did you get the envelope from Eli yet?? When I post info onto another board, I don't do anything but copy and paste it, I never move anything by administrative buttons, I think moving is only for the thread, not an individual post. I thought about another idea when I was walking today, but you think I can remember it now?? Come one down, you never know what you'll find at G sales here!! I told Eli when I reach my goal, I want to go back to Marco-but I told him since we were just there, I'll make it my second goal instead.

Well ladies, gonna go and do something today before the day is gone. Please remember, TOMORROW STARTS THE NEW WEEKLY BOARD and it's MOTIVIATIONAL MONDAY TOMORROW so if you have any words of inspiration, great quotes, etc that you'd like to share with the board, please try to post them tomorrow.

Will check in later!

Debbie
194/132.5/129
Miami, FL

ORANGE---Thanks for missing me. Warm fuzzies!!!

SKEETER---Head for the hills while there's still time, little buddy!!!

KIM: You were too late to save SKEETER he's already been up and down the "wash board" and put thru the "wringer"...He feels better, looks better, and by the way smells better too!
Sorry Maddie slipped up and inspected the garbage...Skeeter did that the other day. Not the norm for him, he just has to be nosy every once in a while! The pollen is really taking it's toll on him. The VET says to be sure and wipe his feet with a wet washcloth when we come in from the potty. He said all the animals are really having a rough time. He winked at me yesterday with the eye that just had surgery, so I guess it's getting back to normal!

DEB: if I tell you that I've never pasted anything before, would you label me an idiot?
No, I haven't gotten my envelope from Eli yet, when did he mail it? I'm sure it will be here soon.
Sounds to me like you're in the early stages of CRAFT'S DISEASE (layman's term can't remember a
******* thing)....I'm sure there's medication for that...I'll check on that and let you know!
Have you seen VIV yet?

Better get back to my laundry..I'll check in later

BOB

Hello everyone,

Happy Sunday! As many of you know I haven't received the SB book yet. If you could share with me some of the fundementals of the program and the chages you have seen since starting the program. I would be very appreciative.

I apoligize because many of you are past this stage. I am just looking for the basics and don't expect anyone to rewrite the book. :)

Thank you in advance,

Hi Danielle-

Here is a great web site that gives lots of basics about SB and many name brand food choices.

http://www.prettyimpressivestuff.com/sugarbusters/index.htm

Sugar Busters in mainly a low glycemic way of eating (WOE). It cuts out foods that produce a high response of insulin in your body. It is not low carbs, just the right type of carbs...basically whole grains with the least amount of processing.

Since white flour products are a no no, you might find this helpful.....
I still eat bread but only 100% Stone Ground Whole Wheat. I buy Pepperidge Farm as it only has 1 g of sugar per slice. Others may have up to three or four so check the label. I also buy Pepperidge Farm Dark Pumpernickel. I also buy Damascus brand whole wheat pitas..these are great for mini pizzas or a sandwich (fill the pocket). Your grocery store may carry ww tortillas (check the ingredients) which I love for making wraps.

Check out the web site...it will probably answer the bulk of your questions and you'll be able to go right out and shop for all the right foods :)

Ashley

Hi all-
You know some of my friends are now interested in SB since they found out I'm following it. I'm not a big salad eater, but one of my dear friends loves to eat salad. What legal dressings do you use? I thought I saw someone mention Paul Newman's Lite Italian once...

Any info you can post would be appreciated and passed on...

:)
Ashley

Quick check in!:wave:

QUILTER, no pictures, lots of giberish-don't know if you got my e-mails or will read this post first-try, try again!! Hope you enjoyed your cleaning!!!!:lol:

BIGO, what the heck is CRAFTS DISEASE-or are you just trying to be funny??? Down here we call it ALSHWEINZERS DISEASE, and yes, I do have the early stages of it!:( Was all that aspertame from before I think!! Eli sent it last week-let me know if you don't get it by tomorrow-may be lost:( Pasting is EASY, you just left mouse click and highlight the area you want to copy, right mouse click and go to COPY and then get to the area you want to go to, in this case, the reply board, and right mouse click again and hit PASTE-viola, that's all!! Practice it and let me know if you are able to do it. Meeting VIV on Friday late afternoon!

GUESSWHO, the site that OVERCOME suggested is the best, I'm sure many answers will be answered for you on that site. Always check out our INFORMATIONAL BOARDS as well. There are links at the top of the very first post each week. We look forward to helping you out. Anything else you don't have answered from that site, just ask!!!

OVERCOME, thanks for helping GUESSWHO:) Just make sure with the salad dressing that it's regular, as usually low/no fat has added sugars. I like Maries, but just found some new ones at Publix, posted the info last week or so, but will get the names and re-post it again soon.

Gonna run-check in later!!!

Debbie
194/132.5/129 (3.5lbs til goal and counting down)
Miami, FL

Thank you so much that website is great and it answers a lot of questions!

Hi All! Boy it is getting really hard to keep up! I did not get to meet Gator after all. Thank you to all that tried to help! My life got crazy Saturday and I did not make it.

Well, I will be off to Erie, Pa next week, so not sure how much I will be on, but will be thinking of all of you and keeping you in my prayers.

Asph: Where are you? Did you leave for your mission trip already? I will keep you in my prayers.

Deb: So, How exactly does it feel to be 133! Woo hoo, I am sooooooooooo happy for you... You deserve it; I know you are one of the 2 never cheaters!!!

Ashley: Congrats on your hubby being home nights! It is great being happily married isn't it? I am hoping to get one day in skiing at Peak and Peak when I am home. No one will go with me though.... boohoo! They are all skied out! But, I am going to go myself if they are open... good exercise!

Viv: Are you here? It is soooo beautiful today that I hope you are enjoying some relaxation.

Barb: Hiya! I guess we will have to wait to get together until I get back! Life gets sooo busy!

Frog: SIZE 12 - wow! I can't wait! You are my idol for the week! I have a ton of 12's, want to borrow them until I get there???? Seriously, let me know, I will send them to you!

Margaret: I am sooo happy for you about being smoke free.... I still smoke on a social basis - about 1 pack a month, but still not good.

Sparkle: Great picture! I love your hair! You are a youngin huh? I plan on starting OA when I get back from Pa... I miss the support I used to get at Alanon... wish me luck. congrats on the bread maker! Way to go you bargain shopper!

Ida: Thanks for the poem. It will help! I was in Oahu once. Back then I ran everyday and really enjoyed the flowers! It is beautiful!

Cheri: good luck with those taxes! I will not get to mine till about the 10th LOL....Good job on the mile!

Guess Who: WELCOME! This is a great bunch of gals! You have found the right place for support!
Sweden: I am jealous! I am a newlywed myself and it has been wonderful!

Melf: Wow, you are a walkin machine!

OC: My niece is really into the stamping thing. She made me some great note cards for my wedding. I love them so much I don't use them... silly huh! I had never seen that website you gave to Danielle. I am going to check it too! Thanks. I just realized that I wrote to you above too to ashely... duh, a little slow sometimes!

Cathy: Don't worry about the fall off the wagon... I fell off for two days and only gained one pound. You will be fine!

BOB: I am going to check our store here for the pan tomorrow... wish me luck!

Gator: I am soooo sorry that I missed you! Things have been busy here trying to get ready for "mom" to go back to Pa... You would think they had never been without me... but makes me feel good! Thanks for the invite though.

Quilter: never think you talk too long... we all appreciate your babbling... tee hee! Great job with the stairs and the laundry!


Anyone I forgot! Talk to you soon!

Annette

Hope you all had a good weekend.

Since I haven't posted since Thursday it's taken me ages to go through all the posts. Haven't done much in the way of exercise this weekend as I was working but I was busy at work for the last three days and did a lot of walking so hope that counts as exercise.

Cheri45 - I wasn't too impressed with the Garbanzo Crockpot Stew. I found it rather bland even though I added a few more spices. It was also more like a soup than a stew even though I had put less water in. That's the first time I have used garbanzo beans in a stew. In the future I will stick to lentils as they seem to have more flavor. I do like garbanzo beans made into falafels though. That's one of my favourites although I haven't made them in a while. Isn't it a good feeling to get those taxes done. I just finished mine this weekend. I did them on the computer the last couple of years. So much easier to have the computer do the calculations.

Annette - I am enjoying badminton, just wish I could get there more often. I've only managed to go one day a week for the last few weeks so far. They have it a couple of times during the day but I usually end up working those days. They are going to have a tournament in a couple of weeks. Just amongst the group I play with but I don't know yet if I should participate. I am trying to figure out the rules of who serves and where to stand etc. It's a little confusing. I am sure I will work it out eventually but maybe they won't want to tell me what to do if it is a tournament. So we'll see how many practices I get in before that time.

Debbie - Hope you decide to come on the trip to Canada. If you do I would love to meet you. I checked out Waterdown and it is near the towns of Hamilton and Burlington, which is about halfway between Toronto and Niagara Falls. I thought you had said previously that Eli had relatives near Canada's Wonderland, which is just north of Toronto. I'm about a twenty minute drive from CW and about an hour or less drive from Hamilton. Hope your eyes are better now. Sounds like it was an allergy. I used to occasionally have similar symptoms where part of my face and/or lips would swell but it hasn't happened in a long time. I never did find out what caused it. I'm glad to see you are treating yourself. The silk jacket sounds fab. Glad to hear the scale went down again after getting rid of the dookie. Did you have a good night out yesterday? Talking about the new board, if it is to be for copying/pasting posts only and not for replying, how would BOB be able to do this unless she had special privileges. (I'm assuming it would be a locked board so that no one else would be able to post to it.) Just a thought.

Quilter - That was good that the poll helped you to get back on track. I'm glad you liked the movie Crouching Tiger/Hidden Dragon. I don't usually like movies with subtitles but this tme it really didn't bother me. Probably because it was such a good movie, also it was large screen and it was easy to read. Thanks for the info on Leslie Sansone. I'll keep my eyes open for it. Although it's quite likely not being shown up here. Which channel is it on? Glad to hear your lasagna turned out good. I have a bakery close by which make there own pasta. It tastes so much better than the packaged pasta.

Gator - How did your weekend go. Were you able to get some decent legal food.

Amseraphim - Hope you have a good trip. Congrats on achieving 60 minutes on the treadmill. That's a great workout.

CathyH - Hope you enjoyed the wedding and had a good weekend.

Viv - Glad to hear you reached goal before your Florida trip. Hope you are able to relax and enjoy the vacation. YOU DESERVE IT. Hope you get good results from your Dad's tests.

MargaretA - Glad you got the abbreviations sorted out. Some of them can be quite confusing. It took me a while to figure out what TGIF meant.

Melf - Hope you are feeling better now. 3.3 miles is great.

Sparklecamp - That is a beautiful picture. Thanks for posting it. Thanks for posting all those websites. I haven't had a chance to check them out yet but plan on doing so soon as I have time. I can see you are really motivated to get going on this woe. You are doing a good job with your planning and I am sure it will produce the results you want. Your whole wheat bread sounds delicious. I've made quite a bit of bread recently. My favourite is oatmeal/whole wheat, a recipe I adapted for SB. It's very easy to make but not for the bread machine.

BOB - I haven't been able to find the book CALORIES DON'T COUNT. On one site where I saw it mentioned it said it was out of print. I did read a synopsis of one of the chapters and it said to start your meals with 2-3 tablespoons of oil (I forget which kind) . That sounds kind of yucky to me. I'll be interested to hear more of what it has to say. I loved the cat in the pot.

Ldblond - Thanks for posting the poem about the butterfly. I, too have seen it before but it is good to read it again.

Guess Who - Welcome to the board. If you have any questions after you read the book just ask. Someone is sure to have an answer for you. Sounds like you have a good start having lost 50 lbs. I am sure you can start losing again if you adopt the SB woe. It is a very healthy eating plan and quite easy to live with.

Froglover - That's wonderful to be able to get into a size 12 again. Congrats. Doesn't it make you feel good.

Bye for now.

Marie.

Well?????? Did anybody miss me?????:o

For the ones who responded back about where I went, Hernando is near Ocala, or 40 miles or so nw of Gainesville. Does that help??? My aunt and uncle live on a lake. When my grandmother was alive we used to go every summer, when I was a kid. Now it's kinda sad especially since FL is in such a drought. The lake has really suffered. My DA/U have GAINED at least 150 feet of yard due to the lake's water level dropping so. And the grass!!!!!! :cry: They are losing their grass. The yard is so sandy. I do believe God allowed traveling so us humans can realize "the grass is not always greener" elsewhere. I think you all can get my drift. :?:
Well, DH & DU came in 2nd place in the golf tournament :D I was happy for that. DA and I stayed up until 11pm last night just knowing we had won the 24M!!!!!!!!! Yeah, right - :rolleyes: Lotto is now 30m, and so, I gave her some money for tickets, :lol: Our lotto here is 7M.

Well, I think it's pretty safe to say I was 98% OP over the weekend. Fri morning we did stop for breakfast at Denny's.........OK,ok, I had buttermilk pancakes!!!!! I ate MAYBE half of the 3. I did try sharing and encouraging DA with different suggestions about this WOE. I think my DU is a lost cause :smug: Have any of you ever heard of Archie Bunker??? That should answer that then.

I got to get back with the program including my trusty TM. I won't be setting out for another hour long session tomorrow. Maybe another day :s:

Well, I just wanted to check in. I may be back later. Who knows :spin: I hope everyone's weekend was nice. From the posts it sounds like it..........

It's getting a little late, so I'll reply to some posts tomorrow.
I did get a 2.2 mile walk in today, giving me a total of 8.8 miles this week.

DH took me out to lunch. I did stay OP. Ordered Grilled Tilapia & asked the waitress to omit the baked potato & give me a larger salad instead. It was wonderful! I'd never had Tilapia before.

Had an interesting breakfast this am also. We were out of milk, so I took 1/2 c. low fat cottage cheese & added 1/2 c fiber one to it. I really enjoyed it.

Hope you all have a wonderful evening & see ya'll tomorrow! :wave:

It was beautiful here the last 3 days. I've got spring fever so bad. I really want to start wearing crop pants and sandals - MAJOR faux pas in this part of the South to wear white before Easter and after Labor Day, and it appears that some other trends kinda follow that trend. Though I do break out the crops with the 3/4 sleeve tops this weekend. Still too cool for sandals yet. Won't be too much longer.

Hubby and I went running today, just a quick 1 1/2 around the neighborhood. Was great to get out. I can tell a big difference in the amount of weight I'm not carrying now that marathon training this time will be much easier.

Has anyone else found that the more the lose the more "skin" they're willing to show? I find that I don't want lose fitting dresses anymore (had to fire Omar the tent-maker). I tend to want things that have a sightly deeper neck-line (V vs. round), be more fitted and have a true waist, etc. Last weekend I went had my short hair cut even shorter because my face isn't so round. Then I hopped on down to the Gap and bought some low rise jeans that are kinda figure hugging. I refer to them as my "J-Lo" (Jennifer Lopez) jeans. I've even tried on a few swimsuits! Am I going crazy? I don't plan on dressing scantily, I guess I just don't have the need or desire to hide in my clothes anymore. It's liberating!

There are so many posts and I want to respond to them all. Here's my attempt:

BOB - I like Calphalon too. We have a lot in common - I had a dachshund as I kid and still love them (My Dixie is a chocolate Lab, kinda big, but she thinks she's a lap dog), I work in an allied health field (aren't you too?), I like all the voyuer t.v. shows, as God as my witness I too love GWTW, I am working on lowering my cholesterol, I like SEC sports (Even though I now live in ACC county), I grew up on football,etc. You cracked me up with the "inspector general comment!" Duke made to the Final 4. Think they'll win the whole shabang? All cheers appreciated. They are more of a local favorite for me. I live 45 minutes from Wake Forest, UNC, NC State and Duke! This is basketball country!

LAMAP - Good that you are finally getting some sleep. There was an article on the site recently about how important sleep is to weight loss.

OVERCOME - You're a stamping machine! I think I missed what you and BOB were taking about with the Metamucil, but my guess is that it was A "dookey" issue. My response is Fibercon! :D Pass the cookies!

MARGARET A - Yeah to you for going to the gym!

IDLBLOND - Thanks for your moving anecdote.

GUESSWHO - Welcome to our group. Hope your book comes soon. Keep those questions coming. Moving to Sweden? Fabulous. I lived in Germany for slightly less than a year. Europe is a wonderful place to live. Will you be there long term? Do you speak the language? Congrats on your 50 lb loss!

DEB - You are so close to your goal. I am green with envy and full of joy for You! I know that if I keep working on it I will be where you are soon. We all know we can't do it overnight. It's like eating an elephant; "One bight at at time." I can remember being one of those beligerant teen agers and arguing with my Mom. That never got the end result that I was hoping for. :devil:

CHERI45 - Glad that you felt like exercising! Taxes Hmm? Not a whole lotta fun!

SPARKLESCAMP - Onolicious - I got it. Wonder who else did? How fun to be 27 again. I feel like I'm 27, act like I'm 27, and get frequently asked if I'm 28, but alas, I'l be 35 in June. I think that I will just start telling people that I'm 28! I would love to go out dancing just for fun! My hubby likes to watch me dance, not much on the participating though. Did you ever see any of the Real World housemates at Local Motion or anyother hangouts? We were there when they were taping the show or just after they wrapped. The BayWatch people were also just getting started.

QUILTER - Thanks for your kind comments!

I wasn't quite finished!

QUILTER cont'd - Regarding sick when working out, that is a sure sign that you are overdoing it unless it is a strange coincidence. When you get back in it, don't go more frequently than every other day at first.

DEB - I too found myself getting a little miffed that I wanted a pair of 12's at TJ Maxx tonight and all they had in this particular pant was a 10 and a 14. I almost bought the 10's in hopes that they would fit in about a month but decided not to.

BOB - Glad that Skeeter is winking again. Don't you love it after they've had a bath? We call it "1/2-heimers."

Okay - I think that's everyone.

In regards to the previous post regarding my desire to wear clothes that show more flesh, I am NOT interested in duplicating J-Los' Oscar night look! Did she LQQK in the mirror? As BOB would say, My GAWD!

Have a good night.

Peace,

Frog

Getting ready for bed, just wanted to repsond before I hit the hay:dz:

GUESSWHO, glad to site was helpful, she has a great site and we refer many newbies to her site:)

ANNETTE, don't remember if you mentioned what was going on in Erie-what will you be doing there? Ahhh, as I get closer to goal, it feels better and better. I still am looking forward to the long term future of following this WOE-the fight isn't over even when I get to to the other side of the river.

ROSALIE, doesn't seem like I will be going with Eli to Canada-sorry:( But trust me, there WILL be another trip in the future, I am sure. I thought his sister was near CW, which I've taken my kids to many times. I actually like the mall in Canada (can't remember the spelling of the name, but something Square), but on the way to going to CW. The board that BIGO will do will really just be for posting things she finds should be on there, if someone wants to add something on how inspired they are from a certain post, then they can. Not many people reply to things already posted on those boards anyhow. Hope you have a good week and get in a few games of badminton!:)

AMSER, of COURSE you were missed, but we knew how much of a good time you were having!!! I can relate to your story of being on the lake and being it was your Grandparents. My Grandparents just gave up their cottage right on Lake Ontario in Rochester after owning it for 49 years. I would go there as a kid every summer, and then I started to take my kids there every few years. My Uncle and Aunt now have it, so I will miss going there! Congrats to your DH for coming in second! Glad to hear you are back safe and sound and stayed OP 98%;)

MELF, congrats on your walking this week, that's great! I love tilapia-thought when I make it, I usually hate it, like it when I go out though. It's not fishy at all. I too do the same thing with CC and Fiber One. Good in yogurt too!

FROG, glad to hear you had a great weekend. I don't go for fashion, I'm more for comfort. I don't wear white, so it's not an issue for me. Black, that's another story! And for showing skin, the only skin I'm willing to show more of it from my ankles down!!! Hey, before you know it, you too will be at goal! I remember 30 pounds ago, it wasn't that far away, really.

It's time for my beauty rest. Will be posting the new board tomorrow morning!!

NITE:yawn:

Debbie
194/132.5/129
Miami, FL

It's MONDAY and time for the NEW WEEKLY SUPPORT BOARD

Just click on the link below and it will take you right to the new board:


http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/showthread.php?threadid=3507

See you on the new board!!!!:)