WW Clubs and Groups - 55 or more pounds #55

If you have 50 or more pounds to lose, jump on in and join us! You will be sure to get a warm welcome! :)

What a day!!! We had torrential rains with high wind, temps in the 40's with wind chill in the 20's. A terrible commute. The wind was so strong this morning we were getting what my exdh calls "horizontal rain". I got to work at 6, and had pulled my pass card that I need to swipe to get into the building at that hour out of my purse. I'm usually the only person in the whole 4 story building at that time. Anyhow, as I was getting out of the car juggling that and my umbrella and my purse and my carryall bag, I guess the wind whipped the swipe card out of my hand- and damned if I could find it. I looked all over the ground around the car, then started searching inside the car. As I was standing up from searching under my car seat, a huge gust of wind came along and slammed my car door into the side of my head, hard enough that I have a large goose egg just above my ear, not to mention a headache! :dizzy:I had to call a supervisor who lives near the office and go by and get her swipe card. When I got back, I found mine on the parking lot near where I'd been parked- even tho I looked all over the place before. Guess it blew back. And then in the afternoon I had to drive to Virginia in all that rain. Thankfully. it was down to a light cold drizzle by the commute home. So. Texaslady, today I am indeed envious of your 70 and 80 degree weather! :D
Jan, I'm so thrilled for you- I know how much you want to be back in the classroom. I sort of had a feeling they'd go along with your proposal- they sure didn't want to lose you!!! They know when they have a good thing! I'm glad your dad fared well in your absence. I don't think he minds that you don't get to take hin out to dinner or shopping much. You're there for him every day- and it was wonderful to see the genuine and easy affection between the 2 of you. He's obviously quite proud of you! I don't blame you all for not kayaking in that weather! Although I'm not fond of saunas, the jacuzzi sounds wonderful! Oh- and by the way, would you be upset if I told the others your dad's "chapel" story? It was so cute.
Janet, how nice that your grocery store now stocks No-Pudge and Kashi! How do the prices compare to Trader Joes and the online places? I can see why you were less that thrilled with the clerk's sales pitch for the stuff- but I doubt if he meant anything by it. He was probably told thet were carrying it due to requests from WW members and so he was proudly passing along his knowledge! Look at it this way- he may have seen you before and noticed you've lost weight too! How's Motley doing on the anticonvulsant meds?
Saara, since you aced the English test, I KNOW you'll do well in the Finnish test! Don't work too hard- life is short!
I found a new snack goodie- new to me, anyway. When we were at Jan's she had single serving packages of the Pirates Booty, which sounded like a winner for portion control, so I went on the Robscape website she ordered from, and while there decided to also try "Potato Flyers" . They also are a 2 point snack. The stuff came today, and they are really good! They are like a real thick, wavy but puffy potato chip, and they are made from potaoes and rice. And they are filling, too. YUM!!

Well, I'd better run- this computer screen isn't doing much for my headache. Hi to everyone, and have a good evening.
Carol

Carol, what an awful experience in the storm yesterday morning; whew. Is your headache gone yet? I just hate high winds. And sure, go ahead w/the chapel story!

Saara, how did the Finnish test go? Is your roommate still cooking WW-style for y'all?

Janet, glad you can find Kashi and PB now in your store; wish I could persuade our local store to carry even a few of the things we like! Down here, we have to check expiration dates carefully, even, as they are often months overdue. That's why we try to shop at Central Market in SA whenever we're up there; they have everything, even exotic spices and sauces, as well as the freshest veggies, of all kinds.

Texaslady, isn't this weather lovely? Sure wish I could just take off work right now, and spend the day outside! But you're right, it's short-lived, and it'll be steamy hot soon enough.

Liz, JOYce and Rebecca, hope you're enjoying your trips!

Patti, NJNancy and NancyinTC, how are things going? Kendra, are you still with us? Would love to hear from you.

Dad got a roll of film developed yesterday, and it had pictures from last year's spring break, including some of me at the Grand Canyon. I had been a little down on myself for not losing very fast over the last year, but these pix helped me see that there has been a substantial change. I'm still not quite to goal, so I'm going to get dh or Dad to take some pix this weekend, both to compare to the old ones, and to see that I've still got work to do!

Everyone have a great Thursday ..
Regards,
Jan

Hi Everyone,

How is everyone doing?

I haven't written in awhile - it seems all I do is work, eat and sleep - in that order. I haven't been staying within my points very well but I continue to track everything I eat - so I know why I have been gaining a little weight. I feel I'm back on track now...so hopefully it will start coming off.

My Husband joined an At Work Program yesterday (didn't want to take the time to do it at night with me - he's so busy with his civic activities) so now I feel I have to be a shinning example for him. I sure hope he takes it seriously - I am starting to worry about his health.

Spring is almost here - but they are predicting a blizzard for us this weekend. At least it won't last long if we so get it.

I love reading all the post - I'm just not real good at responding to everyone (maybe one of the reasons I lurk instead of write)

Take care everyone,

Nancy in TC

Nancy, it was so good to hear from you. I know exactly what you mean about doing nothing but working, eating and sleeping. I feel like I'm in such a rut sometimes. Please don't ever stay away because you don't feel comfortable responding to everyone. Everyone has their own style of posting...you are part of the group now, and we love hearing from you even if you only have time to say a quick hi. I do hope that your husband does good with his At Work Program. I know that you will be a big help to him, and the fact that you feel like you need to set a good example for him will probably end up benefiting you too. :)

Jan, I meant to respond to the comment you made in your previous post about all that your sister had done for your dad while you were gone...and how you wished that you could do more. As soon as I read that comment, I wanted to type a response to you, but didn't have time. Anyway, I agree with everything that Carol said. As you all know, I was very close to my daddy...and it warmed my heart to watch you and your dad while we were there. The two of you share such a loving relationship, and I was very touched by the tenderness, patience and caring...and obvious love and respect that you showed him. It was also obvious that he shares that same love and respect for you. You do so much for him on a daily basis, and I think that you are both very lucky to share the bond that you share. I just wish my daddy was still here. I miss him as much today as I did when he died five years ago...and I know that you feel the same about your mother. One more thing...don't you dare get down on yourself for losing at a slow pace. I saw the pictures that Texaslady was referring to, and the change is remarkable. You have done a fantastic job, and you look great!! :cool:

Texaslady, please share the "Chapel" story with us because I don't remember that one. Also, Jan had asked me to share the painted squirrel story, but that was your story and I don't want to leave anything out. I still laugh when I think about it!!

Carol, how's that head today?? :eek: I hope you are having a much better day today! I know your story probably didn't seem very funny to you as it was happening, but I sure got a chuckle out of it. I'm sorry that you had to endure it, but like you said last night, it sounds exactly like something that would happen to me. The mental picture I was getting as you were telling me about it was just cracking me up. :lol: I am very glad that you are okay though...and that you found your card. That was so weird how it was there when you returned. We have to wear picture ID cards for the building that I work in. Some guards are very strict, but most don't even look at them...which isn't very comforting when you think about it. Anyway, I had lost mine for the last two days. I had it Monday, but have not been able to find it since. Then this morning, there it was...just laying by my bathroom door. I'm not sure about the prices for the items that I found in the grocery, but I will check on them and let you know. I know the Kashi was $3.59...but since we don't have a Trader Joe's, I'm really not sure how that compares.

Saara, how did the test go?? I have no doubt that you passed with flying colors. I'm sorry that you are having to work such long hours, but it's good that you are getting that paid study time. Post again when you get the chance. We miss hearing from you on a regular basis.

I have a question for y'all. I remember reading on one of the General threads months ago about a woman who had lost a lot of weight (75 - 100 pounds, I think). Anyway, she kept her points consistently at around 38 points the entire time. She said that she never wanted to lower her points because she didn't want her body to get used to the lower amount. She felt that would make maintenance too difficult for her to continue for any length of time. My question is this...do y'all go strictly by what WW says your points range should be, or have you tried to stick to a certain number of points even as your weight has gone down. It just seems hard to imagine that this woman continued to lose on 38 points, even when she was almost to goal. I do remember that she exercised, but nothing excessive. Speaking of exercise, Carol, how do you like your ab roller. Did you ever tell us??

Hi to everyone that I have missed...and to our travelers. Have a good Thursday!

Janet (Kudzu)

Hi everyone! We are about to blow away here, but at least the sun is shining!
Since Jan gave me her permission. I want to share a really cute story about her dad. When we all arrived at Jan's, Jan and her dad and her dh greeted us in the driveway. We first went into her dad's house (right next door to her). Much to Jan's obvious dismay, rather than taking us to the front door, her dad took us in through the garage and a storage type room behind it. Like all storage type rooms, it had lots of "stuff" stored in it. Jan's dad turned around to me and said, "I call this room my chapel, because whenever I bring someone in here they say *Oh, my God!!!*" It was so funny!!!Her dad is such a dear, and so delightful to talk to! Seeing and talking to him made me miss my own dad so much! Anyhow, that's my "chapel story"!
Jan, I'm glad you got to see the pix from last year so you'd know how much progress you've made since then! Sometimes when we're losing slowly (like I am now!!!) it's hard to feel like any progress has been made- you don't see the subtle changes that occured over time. I know one thing, though- having only met you as the thin person you are now, I would never have believed you were ever heavy. You move, eat and carry yourself like a "thin person"- which I consider a high compliment! You've succeeded in making a major lifestyle change, and you look wonderful! If you never lose those last 6 or 7 pounds, as far as I'm concerned you are at goal!!!
Texaslady, do tell the others your mom's squirrel story!!!
Nancy TC, don't worry about not being able to address each of us individually- just stop by and say hi!!! Like Janet said, everyone has their own style of posting. You're part of our group, and we just like hearing from you. By the way, good for you for keeping track even when you knew you weren't always op!! It shows you're taking responsibility for your actions, not ignoring them! I sure hope you don't get that blizzard this weekend!
Janet, I love my torso track- when I can use it, which hasn't been much for quite some time due to the back nonsense! I don't know what to think of the lady who stays at 38 points all the time. I guess it's just like being on a certain number of calories every day to lose weight. But the thing is, if she's losing at 38 points, sometime in her life she'll have to increase her points so she stops losing, so I'm not sure her reasoning makes sense to me. But, everyone's different- whatever works, I guess!
Saara, let me add my "how was the Finnish test?" to the others!!! Any movement from "the crush"?
Joyce, are you back from your mom's house yet? How were things going there, bith with her and with your sister?
Patti, how are things going with you? What day do you usually weigh in? Keep us posted on your progress!
Hi to Kendra. NJ Nancy, Rebecca, Liz- I know I'm missing someone but I can't think who!
My head's ok, thanks- the knot is getting smaller, but it's still sore and the headache is there. So, I let my hair go "au natural" today rather than blow drying it and pulling and brushing to keep the natural curl where I wanted it . I don't like it that way, but several of my coworkers did. But one nurse was so funny- she came up to me and said "Oh- you're hair is really ....... FLUFFY.... today!!" I took that as a "no" vote for the natural look! :lol:
Gotta run- have a good evening, everyone!
Carol :wave:

Carol, I loved your "fluffy" hair story. :D

I know that I've already posted once today, but I just had to share a major accomplishment...at least it was major for me. DD was supposed to go out to dinner with a friend of hers and then go to a movie. Her friend called and said that she was going to have to stay at the barn longer than expected (she "shows" horses). Anyway, Krysten called...all bummed out because she was craving Mexican food. They had planned to go to this wonderful Mexican restaurant called "Margaritas"...which sounds really good to me right now (the margaritas, not the food)! :lol: Anyway, I digress...Krysten wanted to know if I wanted to go with her since her boyfriend had jazz band practice, but I suggested that she call her grandmother and the two of them go alone. They adore each other and I love watching them together. Her grandmother jumped at the chance since Krysten is always so busy nowadays. My mother did say "what about your mom?" At least she was thinking about me. Krysten told her that I didn't want to tempt myself and go over my points. Mexican food is actually very low in points if you choose carefully, but I love it and can go overboard very easily...especially on the tortilla chips. This was just a small victory for me because I can't remember the last time that I turned a chance to go out down. Instead, I'm going home and cooking some of those Tyson chicken breasts that I had talked about in an earlier post.

Y'all are probably thinking what a goof ball I am...but I was kind of proud of myself. That's a nice feeling for a change!! :smug:

Have a good OP night!

Janet (Kudzu)

P. S. I have another question for y'all...not weight related. I have two 8 x 10 area rugs over my wood floors in my den and dining room. They both need to be cleaned, but I'm having trouble finding a cleaners that will clean them...so I was wondering what would happen if I put them on a tarp outside and tried to clean them myself. I don't think there is any wool in them so I don't think they would shrink...but would they be able to dry completely? Is this just a completely stupid idea?? They are dark colors and don't even really look that dirty...but with kids and pets constantly running across them, they just "feel" dirty. Does that make sense?? Have any of you ever cleaned an area rug?? Any feedback?? They weren't that expensive, but expensive enough that I wouldn't want to ruin them.

P. S. S. I haven't wanted to work today...can you tell???? :dz:

Janet, atta girl!!! Avoiding the Mexicsn restaurant to keep from being tempted by the high point treats is a major accomplishment! Especially if the tortilla chips are anywhere near as good as the ones we had in Mexico!
Re the rug- have you tried a spray on, vacuum off rug cleaner like Woolite? Or maybe try renting (or borrowing!) a rug cleaning machine- they rent pretty cheap. You could borrow mine, but I don't think it would be too cost effective for me to mail it to you!! :lol: Anyhow, I've had luck with both those methods on my big area rugs.
Carol

Hi!

Thanks for asking about my test, I don't know how I did. It was pretty hard stuff, but I'll let you know as soon as the results get in...

Janet, way to go resisting the mexican food. I love mexican food, and it's my biggest fear about coming to States and not being able to control myself, and gaining all the weight back... I have gained quite a bit on my each visit. Oh well, maybe it'll be different this time.

Speaking of which, I got some worrying news yesterday. There seems to be a problem w/ the exchange program. Usually by now we know how many students from my university will get placed, but not this time. One girl already got placed. Wasn't me!!! :( I just had to cry when I received an email about this yesterday, but then on my way to work I decided not to worry. I will not apply for any stupid leftover places in Europe, as my advisor suggested. If I don't get to come to the States for the next year, I'll just try to finish my studies quickly here, and then maybe try to get a post-grad study/research grant for the States or something. And I will come to visit next year anyways. i'll just keep working and saving money, and then will come for a few months or something. In 3 minutes I made this plan, and didn't feel so awful at all... And I do believe that things always work out the way they're supposed to be, so if it's not meant to be, that's OK.
And one more thing, if they don't place me, I just think I'm TOO GOOD, so they feel like they don't have good enough courses to offer me...

Carol, thanks for asking about "the crush". Well, nothing has happened, I do see him almost everyday, since lot of us just hang out at the university cafeteria for several hours each day... Yesterday we had so much fun just sitting there drinking coffee and talking. But I don't think he's interested, and I'm not having this huge crush on him anymore, but he is really CUTE! And he's really nice too, but at least we're friends... I'm just waiting for him to notice how great I am... ;)

well, gotta go to the university. I have a class, and then I'll hang out again... Have a good friday! Saara.

Janet,Kudzu, I have been wondering the same thing about some rugs that I have!
Mine are smaller, I think they are 5x8, and are under the dining room and breakfast tables. I'm really tempted to take them outside and clean them. I don't want to use the shampooer inside, because I fear it will ruin the wooden floor. I think you have given me courage to give it a try, just knowing that someone else has the same dilemma!

I had a MARVELOUS visit with Mother and sister!
Mother's assisted living facility is fabulous! they take very good care of her, and she is happy.
We went out for her bday dinner, our first choice didn't work out, so we chose a "hole in the wall" mexican place that my sisters enjoy. We went in earlier in the day to make sure they had room for us and could accomodate the wheel chair and that we could bring a cake. In fact we left the cake there in their fridge.
Later, when we arrived, they had put up birthday banners and balloons, had noise makers on the table , they put candles on the cake,and sang with us, and took poloroid photos! it was GREAT!! such service, and we were the only ones there,so it turned out to be a private party. OH! and they didn't charge for Mother's dinner!

My sister is doing great! She is a changed person since her "death experience". So pleasant and fun to be around! she really appreciated hearing the things I had observed during her unconscious time, it was neat to be able to share them with her.

I ate 2 lunches with Mother in the dining room at the facility. They were very much OP. Mother was concerned that it wouldn't be enough for me, but they were very sensible meals.

Today is the beginning of a 3 day Doll/Ceramic show at the fairgrounds, so that is where I am headed pretty soon. I'm going to see the show today and hopefully take some classes the next 2 days....so will try to catch up on other posts later. You say so much in 3 days! Hard to keep up, when one is gone!

gotta go!

:wave:
~~~~~
JOYce

Hey Everybody!!

JOYce- Am so glad to hear that your visit went well! And that restaurant sounds like a wonderful place. What service! Hope your mom had a great birthday!!

My little vacation was very nice. I swam on both Tuesday and Wednesday and had the most wonderful time swimming laps. I had the whole pool to myself so that made it even better! It was a great time for me, but DH probably didn't have a good time like me since he had classes and a test yesterday that took him about four hours. But it was nice for me to not have to cook, wash clothes, make beds, etc. etc. It was very hard for me to stick to my diet and I had two bad days. I tried to plan, but it went down the tubes. I felt horrible and like such a failure. :( But today is a new day, I am at home with all my stuff and I feel renewed strength and confidence. So here is to new beginnings!!

I did not go to a meeting either. And the reason is kinda silly. :o I had the hardest time finally going to a meeting and now that I know or feel like I know the ladies I see every week, I was scared to go to a new place, have someone else see how much I weigh and have to feel those scared and helpless feelings again. So I did not go and am hoping that next week when I go to my meeting, I will have met my 10%.

Not much else here, am expecting my folks for the weekend. :D I like company! And they haven't seen me since Christmas!!

But I better go get my house ready for company! You all have a great weekend!!

Rebecca :cool:

Nancy in TC, good to hear from you again! And I'll second what everyone else said, don't feel you have to reply to each person; just stop by and say hi. Glad to hear that you are OP again. You can do this! Sounds like you have the journaling part down, and that's one of the hardest things to do.

Rebecca, I like what you said about new beginnings; that's such a positive way to approach this project. I'm sure all that swimming you did last week will help, too, even if you were a little off program. Have a great time with your folks!

Carol, you are so sweet; thank you. Dad really enjoyed getting to meet you, Janet, and Texaslady; he's still talking about "those nice friends of yours." And I know how it is for you and Janet, missing your fathers; even after 9 years, losing my Mom, it's hard. How is that headache? Hope the lump is going down. I wince just thinking about a heavy car door slamming into your head like that!

Janet, thanks so much for the encouragement! And congrats to you on resisting the Mexican restaurant trip! Way to go! That really shows your commitment and strength. We're all proud of you! Re: the rugs, I think they'd dry outside just fine, if the weather cooperated. I've seen people dry their oriental rugs outside like that, though I haven't done it myself.

Saara, I'm sorry you haven't heard yet about the foreign exchange placement; maybe they're just running a little late, do you think? I'll keep my fingers crossed for you. But it's good to hear that you're planning a trip, either way; can't wait to meet you! I don't think you should worry about regaining when you come over here, because you've developed so many new skills and changed your lifestyle. The only difference over here will be that the restaurant portions are so huge, but I know you will be able to deal with that!

JOYce, so glad to hear that your Mom and sister are both doing so well! What a lovely birthday party that was, and how nice of the restaurant to go "all out" like that! Enjoy your doll show. What kind of dolls do you make?

Texaslady, sorry I got the stories mixed up; please do tell the squirrel story, it was so hilarious! Hope you're enjoying this nice weather.

We're supposedly out of school today, but we're hosting a UIL contest (an academic meet) so I came in to make sure all the kids' computers were working ok. It's so stressful for them to bring a laptop and printer on a school bus and hook it all up at a strange location, hoping everything works right! Luckily, with a few glitches that we ironed out, all the contestants were ready when their time came. Whew. Will also work all weekend, moving to a new office down the hall and making sure all my records are in order, as we're having a routine audit Monday. I hope everyone else has better weekend plans than that!? I know Rebecca does!

Hi to Patti, NJNancy, Kendra, and Liz; drop by when you can!

Regards,
Jan

Hi, girls! Sorry to be AWOL last couple days - actually have too many irons in the fire this week. Now I have to see if I can catch up with everyone -

Saara - I hope things work out for your acceptance into the program here in the States but I love your attitude that if it doesn't work out, well it doesn't work out! You are keeping things in a great perspective and I am proud of you for that. Like Jan, I am still keeping my fingers crossed for a while - maybe it will help! If not, then I am sure there's a good reason, even if you don't know it yet!

Carol - Ouch! How's your head? I feel so bad for your lousey weather - ours has been so splendid this whole week. I understand it is supposed to be about 80 outside right now, but I have been stuck in the office all day and couldn't attest to it. I hope it stays this way for the week-end!

Joyce - How wonderful that your Mom is getting such good care! I wish that all our elderly folks could say the same. You are very lucky that you found such a good place to care for her. Sounds like you had a special party and the people at the restaurant sure went out of their way for you. That was so nice of them. I know you will be doing a lot of walking at the doll show - don't overdo it now! But it is good exercise! :)

Janet - Way to go resisting the Mexican food!! Its baby steps like that one which will keep us on the right path! I am so proud of you for "just saying No!" I am also sure that your dd had a great visit with her Grandmother and that it meant a lot to your Mom. That's so sweet.

Rebecca - glad you had such a good mini vacation! Don't beat yourself up over the slip-ups! You are so motivation and exercising so well, I am sure you will be totally back on track right away. I find that I really do need to go to the meetings to be accountable although sometimes its really hard to go when I know that the scale had creeped upward - of course, I always know exactly WHY, too!

Nancy - Hope that you and your dh will be an inspiration for each other and it will be easier to keep on track. And blizzards should NOT be allowed after the first day of spring has come and gone! I am sure you feel the same way - enough already!

OK - I will tell the squirrel story! My Mom (who is 85) hung clothes out on the line to dry and a squirrel came and shredded some of her stuff. We guess he was looking for nesting material. Anyway, that started a vendetta between my Mom and all the neighborhood squirrels - of which there are hundreds! She got herself an animal trap and climbs up ON A LADDER!!! and puts it on top of the carport roof and baits it with peanut butter or pecans. Once she catches a squirrel, she takes the trap and hauls him off to her rental property and lets him go. After several weeks of doing this, she decided there were so many squirrels that the ones she had previously caught must be returning to her neighborhood trees. So she began to spray paint a dot of flourescent green paint on their tails when she caught them (before she released them on the other property) so she could determine if they were really coming back. Of course, they weren't - there's just so many of them that she is fighting a losing battle! I am sure someone over in the other neighborhood thought there was a new breed of squirrels around - ones with painted tails! This went on for months and months! Lately she hasn't been getting around well enough to be climbing on the ladder so the squirrels are probably celebrating their freedom!

And speaking of animals - do you know what I saw on the way to work this morning? Right at an intersection at the Beltway (huge intersection!) there was a PEACOCK walking across the pavement!! Where the heck he came from is a mystery. At least everyone had stopped and let him cross the street safely - this time!

Gotta go. Hope everyone has a great week-end. Will check in again later.

WOO-HOO!! -5.8 LBS! off to a good start!
I weighed in on the way to the doll show.
The show was great and I walked my legs off for most of 4 hours.
I got some nw molds for little things, eggs, magnets etc.

Jan. I make mostly porcelain dolls, like the ones on my webpage. I got a good picture of my eggs today, I will try to get it on my site tonight, so you can see them.

gotta go!
:wave:
~~~
Joyce

I just lost (due to my own stupidity) a very long post :mad:. I don't feel like doing it again right now, so I'll just say WAY TO GO JOYCE!! :cool: and have a good weekend, everyone!
Carol :wave:

Up way too early for a Saturday :yawn: - and the worse of it is I have been awake since 3 am. Just couldn't sleep and then once your mind starts working ..... well, you all have been there I'm sure.

Just wanted to stop in and say ATTA GIRL JOYCE!!! :smoking: What a great first week for you. Now hang in there for another one - OK?

Going to pick strawberries early this am with dd. The orchard hasn't had any Saturday berries for several weeks now but we called yesterday and they said if we came early we should be able to get some. So plan to be there about 8 am - its about an hour away.

Then dd and I are meeting with a Realtor to look at houses. She and fiance have decided to maybe buy a house, and he is tied up today with some volunteer stuff with an Explorer troop. Their apt lease is up the end of June and, as usual, my early bird dd thinks NOW is the perfect time to look. I think she is a little early - but I don't win many of those kinds of battles with her. :rolleyes:

Then, if there's any time left, we will make up some batches of the strawberry freezer jam! Sounds like a long day...... what we do for the love "love" of our children!

Better go and get myself together and all the baskets iin the car. Have a great SAturday everyone.

Well, let me try this one more time!!! I hope everyone's having a good op weekend.
It's been a quiet day- I watched my little sweetie for about an hour and a half while my dd went to her exercise class, but that was about it. He's walking like an old pro now- he looks so cute!! But he still has to snuggle with grandma for a while whenever he sees me,the little :angel:! My dd can't get over it- he doesn't do that with anyone else. Of course, I love it!!
I've spent most of the day watching a TVland channel 48 hour marathon of reruns of "Emergency!" , which used to be one of my favorite shows when it was on in the early 70's. I'm in sort of a low mood and watching tv seemed like a good, mindless occupation!
I made myself some really good chicken salad at lunch. I mixed low fat precooked chicken breast meat with pieces of apple, green grape, celery, fat free mayo and a little mustard and put it on fat free whole wheat bread. YUM!!!! And very low point.
Saara, I hope you did well on the Finnish test- let us know. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for you on the exchange thing! I'm betting you make it with no problem!!! If they don't choose you, it's their loss! But I like your positive outlook, and the fact that if it doesn't work out, you've got an alternate plan in place! You're a terrific girl, and you are going to do great things- I can feel it!! It's nice that you and "the crush" are friends- who knows? Maybe it will lead to bigger and better things!;)
Joyce, in addition to congratulating you on the loss before, I also wanted to say I was glad your trip was a good one, and that both your mom and your sister are doing so well. I look forward to seeing your eggs on your website. You are such a talented lady!
Rebecca, welcome back from vacation, and I'm glad it was enjoyable. I hope you enjoy the visit from your folks this weekend. You've been really busy lately!Don't beat yourself up about getting off program while you were away. Just jump ight back op- you know you can do it!!
Jan,my head's doing okay, thanks. It's still a little sore to the touch, but the headache and other stuff is gone. How did the academic meet your school was hosting go?
Texaslady, any more stray peacocks on your rush hour? :D I wish you'd send some of your waether here- we're fairly warm (near 60), but the winds are still really strong so it feels cold. Or at least it does to me! Sorry you couldn't sleep this morning- I bet you paid for it during the house search today! Did your dd see anything she liked?
Janet, how are things going with Motley? Has Krysten gotten her prom dress yet?
Hi to both Nancys, Liz, Kendra (where are you, girl?). Have a pleasant Sunday, everyone!
Carol

I'm back and I missed all of you and these posts sooo much.

Carol: How's your head? That must have been very frightening for you. While we were in Texas we saw all the storms on the east coast and wondered if there was going to be a new jersey to come back to!

Joyce: Congrats on the weight loss and that party sound so nice. Sometimes you get much better service at those small places (and better food too)

Kudzu: Did you get your rugs cleaned? I used to use one of those rug shampooers but I must admit that I did not have hardwood floors under them and never thought about that. I have hardwood floors now so let me know how things turned out.

Rebecca: My op went down the tubes also. i went with all the good intentions and actually made it through the first day. I brought fruit and some low point snacks. Well, they took us out to dinner on the first night to this wonderful place in Dallas (I think) called Cool River. OMG!
Everything was to die for. And the desserts! OMG. From that point on I was like a mad woman. For breaks they would bring out this platter of goodies and I would take one of everything, and not a small one either. We had to have the buffet at lunch and I always made two trips. I swear i am still full from tuesday's dinner. I had planned to go to a meeting yesterday but didn't have the courage. I couldn't even sign on to this site I felt so guilty. And at a time that I am supposed to be working on my self esteem I am not doing a very good job. Needless to say, I am a little depressed.

I do have to say I envy Texaslady and everyone on that side of the country that gorgeous weather! We did go outside for breaks just to soak up that sunshine. It felt heavenly. I am a little disappointed that they didn't arrange for a tour of the city. But I suppose that is the difference between a business and a pleasure trip.

I hope everyone has a great day

JOYce, whooeee, 5.8, way to GO! That is a tremendous loss; you are baack, yes indeed. And thanks for the pointer back to your site; I remembered you had porcelain dolls, but didn't know that was also what you made. You have so many talents!

Carol, so glad the headache is gone! Re: the academic meet, we are in first or second place, depending on how one-act-play goes this week.

Texaslady, how did the house search go? How exciting! And did your dd take those bluebonnet pictures this weekend?

Liz, don't dwell on the little transgressions ... Dallas really does have world-class cuisine, who wouldn't be tempted? -- just get right back op, you can do it!

Guess everyone is watching the Oscars tonight, huh? Anyone seen that lion-dragon movie that's winning all the awards?

Guess I'll have to retire before the best pic announcement. Am having my tech. team over for lunch tomorrow (8 people) and have a workshop to boot, so better be in good shape!

Hi to both Nancies, Kendra, Janet, Saara, and Rebecca!

Regards,
Jan

Good morning, everyone! Happy Monday!
My weekend was quiet- much too quiet, actually!!! That's the bad part about not working the 7 day, 60 hour weeks I used to do- and part of the reason I used to do it, but that's another story!:(
Liz, don't worry about letting your eating run amuck in Dallas! The main thing is to not dwell on it and just get right back op. You can do it!!Those buffets can either be a weight watcher's best friend or worst enemy!! It sounds like the cuisine you faced would be awfully tough for anyone to resist!
Jan, it sounds like you have your usual busy day today!!! What are you serving your tech team for lunch? You are such a wondeful cook and hostess that I know it will be great! It sounds like your school is shining bright in the academic meet!
Well, I have to get it together, so I don't have time to "talk" to everyone. I hope you all have a good day. Bye for now. :wave:
Carol

Good Morning Everyone!

Well first off, my visit with my parents went really well, except the eating thing. I made the meals, so that was good. Except on Saturday afternoon, we travelled to the farm they just purchased, checked out the buildings, etc and we ate lunch out. I thought I did so good, but alas, I did not. I was quite a bit over, but I have to say that I made better decisions. Soup, hamburger, no fries when what I really wanted was the hot beef sandwich with mashed potatos, gravy, the whole nine yards. Oh well, I am learning. Yesterday I did a lot better, and with exercising, I am feeling more on track.

Texaslady- I loved the squirrel story. I can just see all these squirrels with painted tails. :lol: And I know exactly what you mean about going to meetings, I didn't realize how important they were until I started going. Now when I miss one, I feel out of sorts. Wednesday is not coming fast enough for me. That's my meeting day and I can't wait.

Joyce- What a wonderful loss! WOOOHOOO!!

Liz- I guess we just have to look at our slip ups as just that, slip ups. We have to realize that even though we have bad days, that we just have to get op as soon as we can. And look back at those times as learning tools. At least I hope that is what I do.

Oh, I know what I was going to say. I saw some pictures of me from Christmas, I was so depressed. I looked so huge. I was so depressed. :cry: I kept them so that when I reach my ultimate goal I can look back at how much I have accomplished. It was just the seeing those pictures that made me realize that I have to do this and I can if I give it my all. Even though everyone said I am looking great and all that, I felt awful all day.

But other than that, not much here. You all have a great day and I will talk to you soon.

Rebecca :cool:

Good Monday morning, ladies!

Well, we picked a plethra of strawberries this week-end - about 50 pounds worth! Of course then they had all to be cleaned and bagged and we made about 2 dz jars of strawberry freezer jam. I may make another batch or two tonight. I have seen enough berries for a while - but they sure were sweet and good.

Looked at houses with dd Saturday afternoon. She found one that she liked and is going back tonight with fiance to see his take on it since he was unavailable to look on Saturday. She also turned up a couple others on the MLS listings and is going to see if they can see them tonight too.

Yes, they had they engagement pics taken yesterday and they lucked out with absolutely gorgeous weather. Just a few clouds and lots of sunshine. She said they had to drive almost to Chappel Hill to find some bluebonnet fields but they finally were able to find enough to photograph.

I guess all the assorted schools around here are all off spring break now. Traffic was really heavy this am after being sort of "reasonable" for the past couple weeks. Seems we are back to our regular old traffic patterns now and that won't change til school lets out for the summer.

Rebecca - I think it was Joyce who shared my favorite weight loss saying - "We only fail when we quit trying!" Remember that one - it has helped me through many situations when I was ready to give up! And congrats for making those wise choices when eating out! Like Janet's skipping the Mexican food, these are all victories and should be celebrated/

Got to get myself busy here at work now. Everyone have a good Monday!

Hi Everyone,

I wanted to post here again sooner, but was really, really busy with work and at home. My son is graduating in May and I'm trying to get everything done, dinner party plans, limo reservations, address lists......but the one thing I am putting off until the last minute is shopping for something to wear. I want to be able to get the smallest comfortable size I can. I weigh in tonight and I hope to get to 10 lbs.

I have really been doing great. I was a little disappointed that I only lost 1.6 last week but, I have come to the conclusion that I wasn't eating enough. I wasn't even eating at the low end of my points range. I know better than that of course, but I haven't been hungry or craving anything. Although, I do want some pasta and after weigh, in a friend and I are going to a place here called Copeland's and I will have some pasta but I'll make sure it has a light sauce. (light sauce in New Orleans.....rrrrright!!!) I'm sure I'll find something though.

We are also having a retirement luncheon for one of the guys I work with on Wednesday at a restaraunt here called "Bayou des Familles" (don't you just love that name)? Well all of the guys (18 of 'em) are having the works....gumbo, salad, seafood platters w/fries, and bread pudding. But, I've put in my order for grilled catfish and salad.

The thing I am most proud of though is I STILL haven't had ANY soft drinks!!!!! My family can't believe it!!!

You are all such wonderful inspirations, I feel very confident that I WILL do this. See ya, Patti

Oh I forgot!!

Does anyone know points values for snowballs, maybe you may call them snowcones? You know, shaved ice with flavored syrup. We have them here all summer and I love them but have no idea how to even figure them. I know they have no fat, but probably a gazillion calories from the sugar.

Another thing, boiled crabs ---- any other southerners out there ever figured points on boiled crabs? I love those too.

Thanks for your help!!
Patti

Hi Everyone!

Hello to you Patti!

Like so many of us, I have been on the run all week. Computer time was on the bottom of my ToDo List.

Old news, but good news... on my weigh-in last Friday I was down a pound. That's an eight week total of 8.5! So long poundage!! My starting weight was 241 (gasp!) and I felt every pound of it. It is amazing how good I feel already with the 8.5 gone.

My daughters' birthday sleepover went very well. We celebrated Spring by making tissue paper flowers and a decoupage notebook cover. Girls enjoyed the crafts. Being 6 girls, it got noisy a few times, but they were having a ball. We set up a tent in the family room. They loved their "cabin!"

I laughed over some of the recent posts... painted squirrel tails!! I love it! What a sight!

Glad to be reading and posting. Have a good OP day, everyone!

Nancy

Good morning ladies!!! Is this really spring? Yesterday we had a high in the low 40's, but with the wind chill it felt like 17 dgrees. Right now it's 21 degrees!! I'm tired of cold, and even more tired of these nasty high winds we've had for the past week! Oh well- at least it's not snow. I'll stop whining now! :lol:
Rebecca, I'm glad the visit from your folks went well, and it sounds like you made really good choices, even though you ate out at a less-than-WW-friendly place! Think how much different your next year's Xmas photos will look! I have very few "pre" pictures- like most of us, I avoided the camera. But the couple I do have I call my "incentive photos", and I keep them handy! In fact, for a brief time I kept one on the refrigerator. A picture is worth a thousand words, as they say.
Texaslady, your strawberries sound wonderful! I don't care much for jam, but I sure love the fresh fruit! You'll have to post an engagement picture when you get them! Having seen what a handsome couple your dd and her fiance are , I'm sure their engagement photos will be wonderful!
Patti, graduation is such a busy time, and so much fun to look back on!! What are your son's plans after graduation? Congrats on being down 1.6 pounds, and on being able to lay off the sodas! I never could give up my diet Pepsi- at least it's calorie free even tho it has caffeine! And good for you for making such healthy choices for the upcoming retirement luncheon! It's so hard when you're in a situation like that where everyone is pigging out. It's good that you could make your choice ahead to help keep temptation down. You definitely want to be eating at least your minimum in points- gotta keep the old metabolism revved up, after all! I can't imagine snow cones having many points- even tho the syrup is sweetened, they don't put all that much on it. And crab meat is very low point- what is it, something like 2 points for a 1/2 cup serving? Boiled crabs (which native So MDers love too!) don't have much meat per crab, and the spices shouldn't add much. They use Old Bay seasoning here- what do you all use? I'd think the problem would be portion control! The avid crab eaters I know can go through 2 or 3 dozen of the little guys in a heart beat!
NJNancy, congrats on the 1 point loss! It sounds like the birthday sleepover as a great success!!
Jan, how was the luncheon?
On my weigh in on Friday I stayed he same. I'm having trouble right now. I'm staying op but on the top end of my points more often than not, and not always making the best choices. I've got a number of very stressful things going on right now- nothing I really care to detail in an open forum like this- and it's hard to do the things I need to do to get the weight moving down again. I've always been a stress eater. But the good news is I'm making more thoughtful choices than I would have done 97 pounds ago, and sticking with program friendly munchies. Oh well- this too shall pass, or so I keep telling myself.
Well, friends, I've got to run. I'm only working a half day today, but it's the first half. I have a follow up doctor's appointment for my back this afternoon.
Hi to Liz, NancyTC,Janet,Saara,Joyce and Kendra. Have a good day, everyone.
Carol

YAAAY!!! Well I wanted to reach 10 lbs last night and guess what???? I lost another 3.8 for a grand total of 11.4 lbs. That was my third weigh in. So you see, eating more did help!!

And I did go out and have pasta with shrimp and mushrooms after, but couldn't even eat half before I was full. I also had a salad with honey mustard dressing using the old dip the fork method. It's amazing but you couldn't even tell I had eaten any of the dressing. But I still got the taste of it and was satisfied.

CAROL - My son has been accepted at the University of New Orleans for the fall and he will be majoring in Graphics Design. He is very excited. He is also a very good musician and wants to get into the Jazz program. Ellis Marsalis is the instructor.

We use Zatarains Crab Boil seasoning here. I'm sure it is a touch spicier than the seasoning other areas use. But it is wonderful. We also put good things in with the crabs like corn, potatoes, whole heads of garlic and my favorite - mushrooms (they just soak up all of that flavor). Take Care - Patti

WEIGH TO GO PATTI!!!
CONGRATS ON THE 10 POUND MARK!!!
I look forward to meeting that point again.
I am so glad that you have joined this thread. I would love to go to New Orleans. In the past few years, we have tried to use our frequent flyer miles to go places we have never been. DH has been to New Orleans, on business, but not me. :(
We are trying to get a trip scheduled in the Fall, but that will depend on my dh's job and what to do with 2 teenage girls that think they are all grown up. :D
BTW, I have tried many times to give up soda, but as I sit here sipping my Diet Pepsi, (at 8:00 a.m.) I don't think I am ready to do it just yet, even though I know I should.
I drink it like some folks drink their coffee.
I have heard that the caffeine inhibits weight loss.

Nancy, I must confess my mistake, My granddaughter Who I said was 8, is actually 9 on her bday! Time flies!
You must have your hands full with two 8 year olds! what fun! It is a delightful age for little girls, and it sounds like yours had a marvelous party!
I made 9 yr old Katie a bday card with my PrintMaster program, and inserted her face into a picture. It absolutely thrilled her! she squealed with delight!

I must get going... I get to pick up Melisssa from school at noon, to take her to get her Learners permit to drive. I dread going thru the training part. But it will be helpful for her to have wheels. she had a permit last year, but let it expire before she took the test. I think she was waiting til she was 18 to eliminate some of the restrictions that Calif has regarding other kids in the car. However gma and gpa have our own restrictions.:D

Wishing an OP day for each of you.
~~~~
:wave:
JOYce

Hi all! Sorry not to post yesterday; was just exhausted last night.

Carol, how did your doctor's appt. go today? Are you still doing pt for your back? Re: the luncheon, it went well. I made a Caesar salad w/ff dressing, a pork tenderloin (lean) stew with carrots, onions, etc., cornbread, and a berry trifle for dessert. Made that with layers of fresh berries, nonfat angel food cake, sugar-free nonfat vanilla pudding, & lowfat whipped topping. Almost everyone in our group is trying to lose weight, so they didn't mind things being lowfat.

Rebecca, good for you, making better decisions like skipping the ff. Don't be depressed by pictures (the camera adds 10 lbs anyway!) but instead, listen to those people who are telling you how good you are looking! You sound so determined, I am sure you will be a success at this!

Texaslady, the strawberry outing sounds like fun. Did your dd's fiance like the house they went to see?

Patti, congrats on the 3.8!! That's fantastic! And way to go on ordering the grilled catfish. New Orleans does indeed have incredible food, and I can remember times when I must have had 40 points at one meal there. But now, fried food doesn't even appeal to me any more; never would have guessed that!

Nancy, way to go, another pound gone forever! :)

JOYce, I've heard that about caffeine too, but I don't think it has that much of an effect. And now that you're teaching Melissa to drive, maybe it wouldn't be a good time to go cold turkey on the caffeine! ;)

Hi to Saara, Liz, Nancy in TC, Janet, and Kendra; have a good Tuesday night! Here in S. Texas, it's almost freezing cold; hope I don't have to bring the plants in! What strange weather...
Jan

Hello ladies!

well, my pc crashed, again. and a friend of mine will come and fix it for me, but since I'm working almost every night this week I don't know when he'll come. So I had to come to the computer lab at the university at 8 am to do my stupid Statistics assignments. Tried to come yesterday afternoon, but they were swamped and the wait was way too long for me...
I just wanted to write a quick note this morning to let you know that I'm still around. It's a busy week. No news about my Finnish test nor the exchange. But I'll let you know as soon as I hear anything.
Well, I had to give up my cats, found a good place for them. A friend of mine took them, and it we'll see after next year if she'll want to keep them or if I'll take them back. I don't have enough time to be home with the cats so I thought it's not fair to keep them. But giving them up was really a hard! But they have already adjusted to their new home.
well, I gotta run to class. Talk to you all later! Saara.

Good morning! Happy Hump Day!
Patti, WOW!!:D What a great loss on your 3rd weigh in!! And 11.4 pounds total is terrific! Do they still give you a bookmark for reaching 10 pounds? It sounds like your son is a very talented young man! My daughter's degree is in music. Your New Orleans crabs sound interesting. Here they just cook them alone, in the Old Bay seasoned liquid. I hate the idea that the poor things are alive when they are thrown in that pot to be boiled!!!:cry: I like crab meat- I coul starve to death eating crabs thenselves- I end up with very litle meat and a LOT of cuts on my fingers!!
Joyce, as I post now at 4:20 AM I am drinking a Diet Pepsi! That and tea are my drink of choice. I've never liked the taste of either coffee or alcohol. It sounds like you'll gain a gray hair or two with Melissa and her driver's permit- especially when gma and gpa's restrictions will be in practice!! But she's a good kid, at 18 she's more mature than most kids with a learner's permit. I wish all kids waited till they were 18 to start driving!
Jan, the doctor's appointment went well, but I'm restricted to not lifting more than 10 pounds for another 6 weeks :cry:. It's almost impossible when you live alone and have noone around to help with stuff, but I'll do my best. Of course, I do occasionally lift my little sweetie- I told the doctor that's a non-negotiable issue! :D He eyed my pruse and told me that probably weighed more than 10 pounds by itself- even tho I've downsized it, he's probably right. I have a little one that I took to your house with me- guess I'll have to work on using that daily. I'll add it to my weekend project list! I'm glad the luncheon went well- the menu sounds delicious!!! That trifle sounds wonderful, and so easy!!
Saara, I'm glad you checked in, even tho you are "computerless" at home. I'm keeping the good thought for you on both the exchange program and your Finnish test! I'm sorry you had to give up your kitties. However, doing so was the sign of a true animal lover, because you were thinking of them rather than yourself. Cats are such social animals- they don't like to be lonely any more than people do! I'm glad you found a good home for them, and have an option to take them back if your schedule improves. How is your roomie doing on WW, by the way? Is her back doing ok now?

Well, I guess I'd better run- I have a long, busy day ahead. Hi to Janet, Texaslady, Liz, both Nancies, Rebecca and Kendra. Have a good op Wednesday, everyone!
Carol

Morning everyone!

And a big congrats (sound of me clapping) for everyone who lost this week. Everystep forward is just that...a step forward. You all are my inspiration.

Gotta go back to a meeting this week and face the music from last weeks splurging. I am dreading it but I feel that if I don't know the damage I will just fool myself.

Am so excited....they say it is going to be in the high 40's today..Just want to sit in the sun and soak up those rays.

Busy week ahead. It is good cause it keeps me from nibbling all the time. And I am so proud of myself. I changed the battery in my car all by myself. Before my lifestyle change I never would have attempted it. Although I admit I plan on having one of the Engineers in my work check to make sure the fittings are tight enough. I imagine driving down the road and the battery coming loose!

Have a great day everyone

Good morning, everyone. This thread is getting close to 2 pages so I will start #56. Come on over!