Weight Watchers - Let's Support Each Other III, We ran out of room again, come join us for support!

Well, here we are on a new thread. Please feel free to join in, there are some of us who've been doing this together for several weeks and some who are new. We welcome you and our objective is to chat about what is working and not working for us. We have helped get each other though some difficult times in a weigh loss journey, such as death of a friend, illness, vacations (fun, but a stumbling block!).
We're good friends now and hope to support each other!
Come join us!
Linda in NH :smug:

Linda - Thanks for starting the new thread. The other was getting a bit too big.

Dawny - Thanks for the kind words. DH's birthday is 9/11, and it hasn't been much for celebrating the past few years, poor guy. I just got an e-mail this morning forwarding a newpaper article about an ex-boyfriend (first love) that is now a Marine in Iraq. I have not heard from him for about 9 years, so I can't really describe the feeling it gave me, but I will definately add him and his family to my prayers. My brother-in-law is going to be sent over (National Guard) in a few weeks and that has been really hard for his Wife to deal with. I really get tired of mean people causing trouble. :mad:

Nat - I have been wondering where you are from. Duh, didn't think to ask! I am not a techno-girl, so I still think it is great that we have the internet to connect us! The WW Family really is huge! (no pun intended) ;)

Hi everyone, thank goodness for a new thread, I think we have all had a few pc probs lately, and whether its to do with the length of the last one or not remains to be seen, but this is worth a try. Glad we're all still together!

WI last night was ok. I stayed the same, which I guess considering there was no exercise the past 2 weeks due to the dreaded 'illness', whatever it might be, and TOM then thats not too bad. Anythings better than a gain, but even a small gain would have been ok. Now I'm working hard to get everything back on track, and who knows after 2 weeks of nothingness then being back to normal may kick things into gear a bit.
Oh Melanie, what a day for DH to have a birthday. Its going to make things hard every year. My AJ was just 5 days old on 9/11 and as I sat holding him in my arms and watching the devastation on tv, I just sobbed and wondered what kind of world I had brought my little boy into. All the nasties that are going on all over the world at the moment should make us appreciate what we have, hold everything very dear close to us at all times and maybe just not worry so much about the little things.

How did your WI go Melanie, have you broke your 00's yet?

At our meeting last night, we have pledged to make no more excuses now if we have a bad week. We have all had a summer of vacations, barbecues, parties and general excuses as to why we haven't lost as much weight as we could have done. Although we all have 'dodgy' moments, all we should put it down to is not sticking to the plan, and not blaming everyone and everything around us. It's only us that put that extra sticky bun into our mouths. No one forces these things down our throats. No more excuses now ladies, it's only 16 weeks until Christmas, (I'm sure you will thank me for reminding you of that one, seeing as Summer is barely over!) Lets blast everyone away with our new image by Christmas, Just think how many pounds we can lose by then. I'm still aiming for goal by then. 16 Pounds in 16 weeks is possible. Lets do it!!!

Sermon over. Back later.

Dawny- Don't be harsh on yourself, I'd call staying the same for 2 weeks a miracle, considering you've been sick and housebound. You should be thrilled you haven't gained anything, so now nothing sets you back, you can continue from exactly where you were before. That's a good thing. :)

TOM is here again, which for me means a slight lack of appetite, so I hope that's a good thing! My tummy aches a bit, I'll probably take a painkiller later. I didn't realise it's 16 weeks until Christmas! I'm kinda happy that summer ends, it wasn't a good one for me, and it's always harder to stay focused during the summer. Winter seems a much better season for losing weight, don't you agree? 16 pounds in 16 weeks, now that's a nice goal!! I bet we can all do it together. It's much more fun dieting with all the support and occasional chatting we do here! We really are a great team! :D


The tragedies that happen in the world affect us all, in one way or another. The latest one in Russia left me broken-hearted. It's so unbelievably sad, and illogical for such incidents to take place. Nothing else I can add to the subject, let's hope everything will turn towards good.

Greetings, all! I’m over here in KY, USA doing my happy dance! I did it! WI last night put me under 200!!! Yippee!! I lost 1.4#. Anyone want to dance with me? Cha-cha-cha…

I’m still trying to get used to the 24 points (stepped down). Last week, I used about 30 FPs. I guess that is what I am supposed to do, and I did have a loss. But, I miss those 2 points, and it makes me nervous about stepping down again. It doesn’t seem right to eat less than that. But, then… I guess that mindset is what got me here.

Dawny – I agree with Natalie. No gain after the 2 weeks you have had is a great accomplishment! I’m glad you got to go to the meeting. It sounds like it was very motivational for you. I’ve been going through the same thing. One week, it’s DH’s grandfather’s birthday with ice cream cake. The next week, it’s a holiday and trip to my mother’s house. This weekend, DH’s birthday and banana split night for the kids at church. Next week, well… you get the picture. I could say, “SPECIAL OCCASION” just about everyday! But, that wouldn’t help me reach my goal. Actually, I was very fortunate over the weekend trip that my mother took efforts to cook healthy for me and I pitched in on chopping veggies and making a low point dessert. I ate most of a cantaloupe by myself. I have searched the past few days, but cannot find one to compare. It was ripened perfectly. Ooooo… I want more!

Natalie – I didn’t realize Christmas was that close either! Eek! Thanks a lot, Dawny! ;) Oh, well. I wish we could save points from week-to-week so I could have about 60 extras for that holiday!

Strange how TOM effects people differently. TOM is the reason that I was holding the carton of ice cream two nights ago! Okay, I was the one who went to the freezer, but I still say it was TOM’s fault. But, last night, I ate half a sf ff pudding pack and didn’t want the rest.

Well, they don’t pay me to chat with you gals all day. Gotta go. I’ll check back with you later.

Morning all,

I am not new to 3FCs or WW, I got to goal 3 years ago, got well under goal (down to 140 which was too thin for me) gained almost 30lbs over in 3 years and now am just about 10lbs over where I should be (yah!). I started going to meetings regularly this summer and that has helped oodles. I have lost 10.5lbs since I started on July 20th. I am 26, a clerk/researcher/go to gal and work for the government here. I am doing core this week and am enjoying it. I love flex too though.

Dawn: Excuses are my downfall:) It's easier I find to lose weight in a routine. I think my only advantage for losing weight in the summer is that my appetite decreases when it's hot and muggy.

Cheers!

Ali:)

Emerald: It feel good doesn't it!! I remember getting below 200lbs almost 4 years ago.. hat was a great early Christmas present for me. In fact once I got below 200 I fully believed I could get to goal!!

Cheers!

Ali

Melanie, that is fabatastical news!!! :cb: I knew you was going to do it this week. Just think what you could have lost if TOM hadn't been an univited visitor too! Thats one milestone gone now for you, I'm so pleased. :cp: What's your next one going to be?

Welcome Ali, :spin: It's nice when we start a new thread because we get alsorts of new visitors popping in to see what we are up to. You are near to goal again now, it must feel great to know that you CAN do it, and this time, you WILL stay there!

If there are any other 'lurkers' out there who like to read our innermost thoughts about weightloss and this and that, don't keep lurking, come and say hello, we don't bite and who knows, we may all make a few new friends out of this. :grouphug:

Talking of lurkers, where's Dale and Fiona, not heard from you guys for a while now.
How are you doing?

Oh well, gotta go again now. I've just eaten a packet of lite crisps for 1.5 points, and thats taken me to 12 for the day so far, not leaving me too many for the rest of the day. I do like to save one or two for supper to save me from the munchies if I'm watching tv. But if I will insist on using 18 points total for the day, then I only have myself to blame. If I can lose the next 2 pounds, then I will officially be in the 18 point zone anyway, but then where will I squeeze an extra point here and there from in the evening when I really need them? At the moment if I've used 18 and need a little assistance before bed, if you know what I mean, I can at least go into my other two points up to 20, but not for much longer. OH, waffling again, :blah: ignore me. Back later.

Hi guys! This new thread downloaded quite quickly, for me that was a great thing, no computer freezes! Yippee!
Melanie, under 200 - way, way cool for you!
No more excuses for me, either, guys - time to get to work! I've been back on program for three days, my scale has not moved but I am forever hopeful! It will happen!
Welcome Ali! Sounds like you belong with us! We'll give you some extra encouragement. WE all need it! Nice to have you with us.
Natlie, I didn't know where you were from as well, so cool! Are you from there originally?
Today has been good for me, stayed right on my core program, but am within flex point ranges as well. I have incredible will power right now!
Dawny, I think you did very well staying the same without meetings, being sick and not exercising! Congrats!
The 9/11 anniversary shall be a grim one, forever, what a bad day for a birthday. Maybe you guys should start celebrations on the 9th or 11th? But, we must move on from that terror, we can't let that act haunt us all our lives. We need to reflect and think, but we also need to try to find solace.
I was also deeply sorrowful about the Russia school tragedy as well. What is it that motivates these barbarians? To do this kind of thing to children. I don't think they will get what they wanted by doing what they did, either, I think it only added to people's anger at terrorism in general? Those poor children and their families, I pray for them.
I hate war, I hate violence, yet I strongly feel that our country (and those who have joined us there) must do something and must take a stand someplace and some time. We can't just sit around and wait for them to attack us again! Hope that remark is not offensive to anyone. I don't mean it to be. I have some friends who are very against the war. We can't talk about it any longer without getting in an arguement. I would rather have some other way, but these people don't seem to know how to deal in other ways. I don't get it.
At any rate, we will all experience certain emotions on 9/11, we must NOT transfer those emotions into emotional eating. Time to take action in another way on that day.
Firstly, we must tell our loved ones we love them and give them an extra hug!
We must reflect on what is GOOD in this world, and there certainly is!
I do think I might do something to help others that day.... I have been working on gathering quilters together to make quilts for the families of service men and women who have been killed in Iraq. I will probalby work on that on Saturday, my way of paying tribute. I am also thinking of planting a bush or tree on my property as my 9/11 "living tribute". I am full of ideas and want to make the day a special memorial "celebration" of sorts, not a happy "celebration", but a day of reverence and remembering.
Hard to imagine your AJ, Dawny, being five days old on 9/11. I had just returned from an antique collector's convention the day before that took place near Boston, and people from all over the world were there. I was in panic about several friends who were flying out of Boston on 9/11, all of them were ok in the end, but on several planes that were grounded. One couple were grounded halfway between Boston and CA and rented a car to drive home from Ohio, they were too upset to fly and planes were grounded for a few days anyway. It was hard to track them down, but I finally did!
I paniced that day, got funds from the bank, put gas in the car (was hugged by a lady at the gas pump in the next car over who I never saw before in my life) and packed family necessities (which are STILL packed to this day all ready "in case") and thought about my kids, who were in school. We were told they were "safe" there and we should leave them there, but I kept wanting them with me - but stuck by what I was told.
A very rough day for so many.
Linda in NH, not letting all the bad things make me eat!

HI all, I feel full of beans this morning, I've just walked AJ to nursery, (I'm still off work until Tuesday), had a nice cup of tea in the garden, reading my new WW magazine, and I MAY even dig out an exercise video for later, I may even do it, who knows!
I don't think the scales have moved either since Weds, but I also feel positive and ready to face the world, whatever it has to throw at me!

Linda, although I obviously sympathise deeply with the troubles of 9/11, I find it hard to comprehend quite how much it has affected you all in the US. My cousin, who lives in Newark, NJ, lost a friend then who was one of the air stewardesses on one of the planes. Plus a friend of mine at work, lost 2 dear friends in the Bali bombing a short while afterwards. It is things like this that bring it closer to home to us who are so far away. It is so sad, and yet you are right. We must remain positive, look to the future and enjoy what's around us. And yes, not do too much comfort eating if we can help it - again, it is no excuse for filling our faces with yummies. And for putting an extra few inches on our waistline!

We had a programme on tv last night about the problems of obesity in this country. They were comparing us to the US and saying that we are now not far behind you! I thought this was a strange way of making us eat less, but the message they were trying to put across was right - we need lifestyle changes, for life, not just as a whim!
They are getting 200 people off of one street and challenging them all to change their lives, by losing weight, getting fit, and psychologically changing the way that they think about a healthy lifestyle. Then, they will see if it lasts, or fades away when the cameras go away. I will watch with interest to see if any of them can stick to it, lets face it, if we can do it, anyone can!

Ok, off for now, see ya later.

Interesting experiment with the 200 people, let us all know how that works out, Dawny. They've done things like that here in the US as well. I especially liked one of our morning tv programs taking a group of teens who were overweight and putting them through a diet and exercise program (the kids did this quite willingly) and the differences in them were amazing. I would love to see a follow up to see if they have, in fact, stayed in better shape.
We all know it's easier to lose weight than to maintain a weight loss. I truly am getting myself psyched up for that part. I hope it won't be long before I reach my goal. When I do, I recognize that I will be having a totally different lifestyle change, a change that I want to stay with me for the rest of my life. I will be able to add a few more foods, maybe just ONE food extra each day? Or, will I have to eat like I am, but maybe allow myself one special food each week that I am not allowing now? It's all a mystery to me right now, I think it will be "tricky" and I will strive for a balance. I did become a Lifetime member with WW before, but then after awhile felt that I was invincible and stayed away from meetings and re-gained. I went back to ww several times, tried and tried, but still was never able to get back to goal weight. I am determined not to allow that to happen to me again this time. I firmly believe that I will need to go to ww meetings for the rest of my life. I truly want to be a part of their organization it will help me to stay at my desired weight and I hope to be able to share what I have done (and not done in the past) that led to success. I wish I could be doing that right now.
Dawny, the USA is such a varied country. As we are what is called "the melting pot" and are a nation of immigrants, people's reactions and opinions about 9/11 are as varied as the people who make up our culture. One thing that I think happened to the majority of Americans was a "wake up call". We are still in shock, for the most part. I also don't think we, as a "people", are truly anything like we are viewed by other countries. We are not as our celebrities, and our movie culture, shows us to be. The majority of Americans are good folk who have strong values and beliefs. The antics of a few who get on the news and the main populus of our country are like night and day. I get angry sometimes when I think that perhaps those who "hate" American truly view us as the media portrays us or by ONE politician or something. We are not that person, they need to get to know us and then perhaps we would not be hated? My good friend who came from the UK to live here (grew up in the Dorset area, is that near you?) was amazed when she came here, and this was before 9/11, at "flags flying and patriotism" and how common it was to see the US flag just about everywhere. She and her husband were amazed at how often we Americans pause and sing our national anthem, at sporting events and just about anywhere. I cry when I hear our national anthem, by the way, and have always done this as an adult.
We are a proud nation and have felt very invincible in the world, it was such a shock for our people when 9/11 came, it was an unfathomable attack on our soil. No attack, since Pearl Harbor 12/7/41 has been on OUR soil. Perhaps we were living in a dreamworld, but the idea of someone coming over and doing something like that was just beyond us Americans. It was a rude awakening for us to realize that people like Bin Laden and his followers hate us so. I find it so hard to believe that we can be judged by what our "culture" portrays us as vs. individuals who are honest, hard working, loving and caring - those who have families. I have always wished that our enemies would truly KNOW us before they judge us by the few they know. Then, they would not hate us and all of this would not be happening, at least I hope.
At any rate, I am so very proud to be American. I would give my life for my country and am so thankful for countries like yours who have stood by us during this time. So many other countries have not stood by us, but we would be the first to come to their aid if there was ever a problem there. I think that is the most hurtful thing, at least to me, that so many countries have not stood by us at this time. We stand for truth, freedom and are interested in stopping all terrorists. We would not impose what we think on them, yet they do not back us up, as they are fearful.
I feel like we stand alone, at times, yet I am comforted by your country and Tony Blair's firm stand (though he faces lots of protests) to remain by our side. I love that guy! I think we Americans love him more than he is loved in your own country? I'll never forget his face after 9/11 when he was here. He reflected our own horror and he vowed his help and support, he made me cry! It was not a political thing, either, he saw the devastation, hurt and knew what our nation suffered. His face said it all more than his words, I felt. What a guy!
At any rate, way too much info about this vs. our weight loss this morning, yet this 9/11 anniversary is certainly a time of reflection. Also a time to NOT eat!
Today, the scale didn't move again. I ate a very good breakfast of 1/2 cup egg substitute, ff mozarella cheese and stauteed peppers, onion and fresh tomato. I will save my fruit that I usually have with breakfast for a snack later on.
Today, I will do an energetic workout and get on that treadmill! I will drink tons of water and I will see that scale reward me tomorrow! It just HAS to after I've been so good! A good day to be rewarded on 9/11, my way of telling terrorists that they can't get me down!
I shall be planting something tomorrow, I have made up my mind. Not sure what I will pick, but it will be something that is flowering or evergreen - maybe evergreen?
Also, we will do our share to help our economy as well, as my husband might buy a new car tomorrow!
Linda in NH, keeping the faith! :coffee:

HI, its me again. Can't keep away this morning. Sorry, afternoon. Linda, you are right about Tony Blair, people over here are criticizing(?) him constantly about his stand with America, but someone has to stand up to these people. By the way, Dorset is at the opposite end of the UK to me I'm afraid. I have been, a past boyfriend of mine (many years ago I hasten to add) lived in Dorset. It's a lovely part of the country though, Somerset too, with its famous cider(!!!) is nearby there, and I love that part of the world. In my neck of the woods, we are celebrating from tomorrow 800 years since we were granted by King John a charter to begin trading our outdoor market. The market is still there today in the centre of town, and is one of the oldest, if not THE oldest in the country. During the festival there will be lots of events, and I'm looking forward to stalls on the market from all over the world which will be selling their wares. Lots of yummies there then. I will just have to try not to indulge too much while I am in a good losing weight frame of mind.
I just got back from a 2 mile walk, I thought I might enjoy the fresh air more than standing in front of an old exercise video, and I'm shattered. I think the fact that I still haven't been out much since being ill is taking it's toll, but I'm getting there.

I've just also had a nice healthy lunch, of baked potato, salad and a little bit of chicken, and have so far for the day had 6 large glasses of water. I will be in the bathroom quite a bit later on, methinks. I do usually have my 8 glasses a day, but spread out throughout the whole day, so to have had this many by lunchtime will make me suffer later, but all in the greater good.

Oh well, we've put the world to rights again. Don't spend too much on the new car Linda, I hate car shopping. Cars and carpet. My worst shopping days out. See ya later.

I feel a little awful today, I have my period and I fainted twice in the morning. I was in pain and just stood laying in bed. I had some fish for lunch, I still feel a little weak and I have a meeting this afternoon which I can't cancel. I took a painkiller and I'll take one with me in case I start hurting again while outside. Please, send me healthy and pain-free thoughts! :)

Hello all. Two days in a roll that I have exercised in the morning. I slept later than intended this morning and only got 20 minutes in, but I’m building on the habit.

Linda – Thank you for your words on our country. Considering that I work in a law office, I often leave very discouraged about my neighbors. It’s hard to remember that the majority of people are not like the 40 or so that have come in the door that day to talk about their 12th husband or criminal offenses. Mmmm… you breakfast sounds so yummy. I didn’t have time after the morning exercise. I’m stuck in the office with a RF poptart and banana. Tomorrow, I will have to fix a good breakfast for DH’s birthday!

DH still won’t tell me what he wants to do for his birthday. He’s been struggling with sinus problems and may not want to do anything. I intend to at least get a good dinner out of it! Hee-hee. I may have to celebrate without him. But with not too many points.

Dawny – your festival sounds like fun. But also a temptation. I wanted homemade ice cream from a stand last weekend, but settled on flavored ice. Good work on your exercise. It’s hard to get started back after an illness. I was off a week with the bad ankle and then a sinus infection. After 2 ½ weeks, it is hard to start back. If DH had not had car trouble causing me to walk home, I doubt I would have done anything last week. (Still waiting for the car BTW. URGH!)

Poor Natalie - So sorry you are feeling so bad! You have my happy thoughts going out to you, and a little prayer. And here's a point-free kiss for you. :chockiss:

Hi, Ali! I think I've seen you around. I'm glad you decided to post. You are doing what I want to do. Yes, getting under that 200 mark was awesome! I have not done that in about 4 years. It makes me feel more "normal", though I will never completely be. :crazy: My next goal will be get under 190. and I would like to reach 180.5 before Thanksgiving. That will be 50#. My mother has promised a huge shopping trip if I drop 50#. The holiday would be a great time to shop with lots of sales. Too many people, but lots of sales. 18.3# in 11 weeks will be difficult, but not impossible - 1.7# per week.

Yesterday was a good day. I might be getting used to the 24 points. I only used 2 APs and 1FP. I was a tiny bit hungry last night when I was trying to go to sleep, but this morning I have had a glass of juice, but still am not terribly hungry and it is 8:30. I think I was really thirsty and felt hungry or it was just head-hunger.

Today, will be a good day too. I just decided I will cook fish for dinner. Yum….

My work is going through rotating strikes so I was on the picket at 6am, but thankfully our shifts are 4 hours long (I chose the 6am one) so I got to go home... I wish we didn't have to strike though:(

Linda: I was amazed back in '93 when I travelled around New England and saw so many US flags... Ooo a new car, I wish I could get one of those. Maybe next year .

Nat: I am sorry you're not doing too well.. Rest up, tea is always good.

Emerald: I have never or will I ever be normal:) I like quirky to describe me:) I have been trained as a paralegal, but I do legal research and tons of other duties now.

Cheers!

Ali:)

Hi girls. Just a quickie today. Been to the towns 800th anniversary festival this morning. Not very thrilling I have to say. Quite a few stalls on the market from Europe, especially France, but other than garlic and fancy cheeses (of which I have to force myself to stay well clear for obvious reasons) there wasn't much to write home about.
Trying to save a few points today for later, fancy some wine tonight, haven't had much in ages, and although I have to say that I'm really not missing it that much, especially while I've been ill, today I feel the need. So I'm going to be really good, take my mind of food and play with AJ and his new toys.

Hope you're feeling a bit better Nat, I've never suffered in that way too much, thank goodness, so far anyway. At least you know it's only for a few days, the only thing is, if you suffer in the same way every month, you know it's only a matter of time before its with you again.

Ali, hi, oooh, being on strike, something I've never done and don't care to, I have to say. We don't have too much of that here in the UK in recent years, although last year we had the firefighters on strike for a while and the army had to step in with fire engines that were out of the ark! My sister is coming to Canada, and possibly it could be near Ottawa, for Christmas vacation. She's really looking forward to it, I wish I were coming with her.

Oh, well, time to go again, DH is working this weekend, something I have to get used to with his new job. We got out of the habit with his old job which he had done for years. He's enjoying it though, the money's better and the stress levels have dropped dramatically, which above all else is the most important thing at the moment. Less arguments I hope!
See ya later.

By the way, nearly forgot, don't know how, my thoughts prayers and hopes are with all the families today who were involved in anyway with 9/11.

Lets look to the future, learn from the past, and beat this thing.

Dawny: Ottawa is nice, so is Montreal:) My parents are from the UK and I hold a passport from there. I have relatives near Middlesborough, Nothhampton and in Wimbledon (my immediate family are the onlys ones who have come across the pond). My dad grew up in Wimbledon, and my mom grew up in Kent (Navy brat). My brother just did his Masters at Exeter. I've been over twice for two months total. I am thinking of starting to save to head over in 2007. So three years from now to visit.

My prayers are with the families of 9/11 victims.

Ali

Natalie, I hope you are ok! I've never fainted before, you must be going through a great deal with your periods! You poor thing! I hope you are better by now!
Dawny, my husband's business might be expanding to the UK, he might be going there and I wish I could "piggy back" on his trip and go. Have always wanted to see some of the sites! Yet, financially, it's doubtful for us right now.
We didn't buy a new car this morning, the numbers were way out of line, and I felt badly as my husband had that happy glint in his eye when he got behind the wheel of this really cool car.... maybe sometime soon we'll save a bit more? We both are "car" people, some could care less about what they drive, but we love cars and tend to get bored with what we have about every two years.... it is time for him to get a new car, but we just can't go quite that far right now. We'll figure out something at some point though!
Glad you guys didn't mind my heartfelt 9/11 and USA and UK post, I was feeling emotional yesterday, I guess?? Can't help it this week, especially with that Russia thing with the children. What can we do as individuals to help our world? I don't have an answer to that.
By the way, I truly am a huge Tony Blair fan, I like him better than our own current presedent or his opposer in the elections. If people in the UK are not happy with him, I'd gladly have him here as our leader! Oh well.
Today, I've been good so far, but I am just dying for something chocolate and rich..... is trouble heading my way? I hope I can resist.
I'm getting off line next and will march myself into the kitchen and make some sf and ff chocolate pudding and eat enough of it to satisfy whatever nasty urges I am having! Even if it's more points that I might normally have it's better than a hot fudge sundae!
Lovely day here in NH, hope you all are having nice weather. I am feeling sorry for Florida residents with another hurricane coming their way. I hope they get bypassed this time, they look so tired on the tv.
Linda

Oh dear, I had a chinese take out last night and I regret it. I wasn't planning it, I didn't really want it, I had already planned the meal for last night, but I did enjoy it! :hun:
I hope I haven't damaged this weeks hard work and walking that I've finally been making the effort and doing. The scales didn't look too healthy this morning, but I guess the food was still in my stomach weighing heavy as I did eat quite late. I will blame anything except my lack of will power yesterday. I had been really good all day too, Oh well, looks like a bit of extra walking before wednesday then. :tread:

I've been to a large shopping centre in Sheffield this morning and spent AJ's birthday money. He had so many new toys, that he didn't need more, and he did need some woolies for the cold weather to come, so it came in handy for that. He did sneak two little toys out of the cash though, I can't resist some of them, even though I really know he had no need for them at all. I'm sure he'll get at least 5 minutes play out of them!

Sorry you didn't get the car yet, Linda. Something will come along at the right time, at the right price - it usually does with cars - as long as it isn't a Ferrari you had in mind, that is!!! It would be great if you did get the chance to visit over here. It's not just the plane fare though is it? There are so many expenses with travelling abroad, and eating out here is usually not that cheap either. If you did come,though, the sites to see can be amazing. Even our little town's main church has a crooked spire! Just about everything for miles around tends to be named after it! You can see it for miles. When I was young, I didn't live in this town, and my grandparents would bring me here on a bus. I would see the spire in the distance and every single time comment that the banana was still there. It will still be there for a long time to come too, I would imagine.

Ali, So you too are 'officially' British too! Some of my family members have at various times lived around some of the places you mentioned. I once had a very interesting new years eve with my Mum in Kent. I remember very little about it, except 3 litres of white wine tends to stick in my memory for some reason!!! :hat:

Ok, well time to go again, I'll pay another visit tomorrow, and promise not to waffle too much next time - there's got to be a first time eh!

Hello! It looks like my crazy home computer is going to let me post today! I haven't even been able to access the site from home all week!

It's been a good weekend. I didn't even use may FPs yesterday while we celebrated DH's birthday and got in some good exercise. I picked up a used Yoga video for $1.99 and plan to give that a try later today. And I won an ebay auction for 4 more videos that will give me some variety. Hope to get those soon. I have done well with the daily exercise and plan to keep it up. I hope the scale shows it this week.

Congrats, Dawny on conquering the food booths at the festival! Bet you are glad that isn't added to the Chinese food, so I guess it was a victory, eh? Yesterday at the mall, we were surrounded by cute kids and hearing about AJ get the thoughts in my head more. But, I still think we will wait a while. I am 28 1/2, so I would like to start our family reatlively soon, but we have only been married 6 months. I don't think we have settled in enough with the marriage stuff to add a bundle of joy right now.

Linda - hope you can get in on that trip. I have images in my head of old "I Love Lucy" shows and how she would some how manage to sneak in on the act. Did you see the one where she got stuck in the trunk that Ricky was taking overseas? Might be some good research for you! :D

Well, I'm going to keep this short in case the computer decides to change it's mind. Just want to add a NSV. I am wearing a skirt suit that has been hanging in my closet for about 5 years, since I could last get the skirt to fasten. The waistband is a bit snug, but I feel victorious in it!

Melanie, congrats on you NSV! I should try on a few older clothes as well, maybe I'll be wearing them now?
Dawny, you'll do ok with the take out Chinese as long as you watch what you eat the rest of the week, exercise, drink your water and stay away from any high sodium stuff!
I think sodium in Chinese food is sometimes what causes almost an immediate weight gain! Think about that soy sauce and all the other stuff in it! No wonder we all love it so much!
Last night, I used 14 flexpoints, so am not doing much better than you, Dawny! We dined out at a local Lebanese restaurant, it was so good. I had pita bread with butter, been so long since I allowed butter! I had beef shish ka bob with french fries and salad, It was very, very good! I resisted other things, but did have dessert (flan) at home. I figure 14 points, but I still have 8 left between today and Tuesday when I go for weigh in. I might have blown it a bit, but you know life is too short and I still (though I want to behave and lose weight, of course) firmly believe that one must not completely deny oneself all the time, or the diet will get so "old" that one will end up going off it permanantly.
So, today, I have done well and went out and did some painting on our deck and stairs. I've been on program all day, so last night did not start me on a binge!
Oh, one more thing, if Mark does go to the UK, it will be a long time from now. I should probably get a passport just in case I could go, but not thinking too much about it. My daughter has a chance to go to Disney in Florida for one week in April with her chorus from school and will need us to come up with funds for that. As the typical mom, I would save for her trip rather than me to take one. Just how the typical mom is, I guess! I want her to have that experience!
Linda

I am doing core and pretty much used all my flexpoints last night.. No worries though, I exercised oodles yesterday. I did a WT video and ran 5kms (I am a runner).

Linda: My mom definitely would have done the same for me... well if you make it over to the UK it's a wonderful country, I love the architecture and the countryside. It's so beautiful.

Dawny: I never weigh myself until a few days after a treat meal. Usually things do settle down. It's funny, I never have actually been to Kent, all of my mom's family have moved from there. New Year's and wine is always fun!

I am getting my hair done Tuesday... Trying to find a style, I think I am thinking long layers with volume.

Cheers!

Ali

Emerald: I get the "I want to be a mom" pangs too. I am almost 27, unmarried, but living common-law. I'd like to probably be 30 and married before kids just so we can save up, get me out of debt and just enjoy a few years on our own. Apparently though kids in my family "just happen" as my mom says. Yah for your NSV!!

OOOh, I love coming here and finding lots of posts to read.

Melanie, I keep thinking about yoga too, is it something you've tried before or are you a first-timer? I keep thinking pilates too, I'm not entirely sure what the difference is, perhaps I should try some cheep vids too, at least to give them a try. Oh, and on the baby thing, DH and me waited to be married 9 years before we started trying for a baby. We had been there and done that, travelled a bit and got the house nice, and when I turned 31, bang, the urge was there, next thing we knew, AJ was on the way and the rest is history. I do think its wise to get used the married thing first. With the best will in the world, and lovely as our blokes are, living with them is another matter, it can take a while to settle in sometimes, and from one old married lady to a few others, I'd advise to take your time anyday. Unlike my beloved step daughter, who of course has just turned 22 last week, and will be expecting in November! They barely have any furniture in their new house, and have just announced their engagement. Nothing like doing things the other way round huh!

Hi Ali, I used to do a bit of running. It started affecting my hip though, and ever since, if I try to do only a little bit I know about it straight away. I do miss it sometimes though. I think the weight would drop off if I could get into it again. My sister has started doing some running, and is planning a 10km run in October. But she has been ill lately, and training hasn't quite gone to plan, so we'll see if she's up to it. She did a 5km run earlier in the year, and did it with flying colours. I'm so proud of her. I would never have though 2 years ago that she would have lost 70 or so pounds and be running up hill and down dale. I just wish I could join her. I'll have to walk instead.

Linda, Hi, thanks for the advice after the Chinese. I would never actually have thought about avoiding more sodium for a few days after eating it. I see where you are coming from, I'll give it a try. I know what you mean about Jamies trip too. There's no way any of us with kids would ever put our own enjoyment over theirs. We always tend to do anything in our power to help them where we can, and if it means us losing out a bit, then so be it. I often feel like its months since I went clothes shopping for myself, and just treated myself, but AJ always needs new stuff. There's never much cash to spare,and if he needs something then we can't even consider needing something. It's just life and being a mum I think. But we love it.

I feel fat today. I haven't gained by my scales, but not lost either, maybe the Chinese still? I'm walking everywhere, and need to get some more exercise in, before wednesdays WI, I don't want to have stayed the same again. I will not stand for it!!!
I am determined to do something about it, in fact I'm going to go to the park with AJ now, It's about a mile away, so it won't do me any harm, he doesn't know yet but I'm sure he won't complain. I've got my pedometer on, (I had lost it for a while, but found it yesterday under the bed), so I will get some miles in some how, even if it kills me later!

See ya soon.

I, too, love checking in here and reading all your posts each day! As they say in the UK, we are all "mates", or here buddies!
Ali, hope your hair comes out well. I'm stuck in a rut with my hair, I think. With these wonderful menopausal symptoms, I swear it's thinning as well, and I hate that as mine has always been fine and difficult to deal with, now it's worse! I always hate whatever style I pick afterwards as well! I wish perms were back in again as they were years ago, my hair responds well to those and has some lift and body for a change. Maybe I'll do that anyway, but they are so expensive! I want a style (why does everything always relate to my weight?) that makes my face look thinner as well!
I forgot, kind of, about your step daughter expecting, Dawny! Hard to imagine it when AJ is so young, but it was your husband's first marriage, right? Do you guys in the UK have baby showers? Will there be one?
Never fear, those of you who are feeling sad about not being married and having a family! I didn't meet my husband until I was 27 and had my first child at 32, it can happen for you! I swear I was ready to give up.
Was was in a "dead end" relationship with a guy for four years, I wanted to get married, but he was one of those who couldn't make a committment. He said we would get married "some day" but never could follow through. I left him, thinking I had given him enough time to make a decision. We lived together, as well, and I got tired of being the "common law" wife and not having a ring of my finger. I wanted the house, kids, dog scenario very badly. Interestingly enough, I met my husband and left this other guy not knowing if I would ever even go out on a date with Mark, but I knew this was a person that I could spend the rest of my life with when I met him. I left the four year relationship and was very, very brave and asked my husband out for "drinks" after work one night (we worked together). He agreed and now over 21 years later, we are together, happy and have our two children, the house and two cats (never did get the dog in the end!). In my life, I never have asked a guy out before, always letting them lead the way, this was a huge step for me! I feel badly as that guy I left was an "ok" guy and I would have married him, if he would have committed to me, but I am glad things turned out as they did as I truly am happier with my husband and our life. He is really right for me!
Sadly, the other guy called me after I left him, begging me to come back, even crying on the phone and telling me we would get married right away, but it was too late. He should have thought of that a year or two earlier in our relationship. The worst part, I hear from a few friends who know him, is that he still has never married and is now all alone. Still makes me feel badly, but he did this to himself, I think.
I am glad we took our time before we had our first child, who is now 16. We were married for four years and then had him. We traveled, had a "nice" home, "nice" cars (nice meaning, decent, but we are not rich), nice life in terms of going places, dining out and enjoying each other. After four years, we were ready to settle down and have me stop working to bring up kids. We couldn't have afforded having me stop working before we had Jeff as well. It is always tough on one income, but I am so very glad we did it that way. I think my kids reflect the time I spent and dedicated to them, they are good kids, polite and caring people. Some of their friends who were in daycare (not that there is anything wrong with that, truly, and if it's what you have to do, then that is that) just don't have the same manners, etc. that other teens have. I think only a parent can be the one to teach day in and day out "right from wrong" and having me there, consistently, was most important in their earlier years.
Nowadays, I wonder if I should get a job again, and then every time I think about it seriously, I find there is a problem and my kids end up needing me. Then, I am grateful to be not working, so I can help them.
I will work for Weight Watchers, though, when I reach my goal, or close enough so they will allow me to work for them! I am a Lifetime member, so could go to work for them! I really want to do that! But, that can be part time!
Last night, my husband and family dragged me out to eat again, I hope that my choices weren't all that bad and I still have a loss tomorrow. I had broiled haddock, mashed potatoes and beets. I did eat a few of my husband's onion rings. I would not have put butter on the mashed potatoes, either, but they put some on and when they arrived, with the butter over top and flowing down them, I ate them - I was starved. So, that was not a good thing. I know I used up all the rest of my flex points on the Core plan last night, so today will be especially good.
Still haven't seen the scale move at all, sadly. But, if I stay the same this week, maybe that is the best I can hope for? I will be doing a work out and treadmill shortly, though, and plan on eating "perfectly" today!
Linda

Beautiful morning and I am not on the picket today so I am at work yah!! I much prefer this.

Linda: I got my guy to commit to a mortgage (actually he got me to commit to a mortgage) but luckily he's now at least talking about us getting married. He even let me look at a ring section with him and he asked me which I liked best. I would liek to stay home with kids too... I don't know if it will happen, at least I get a year of maternity here though. But if I have more than one I'd like to take advantage of some unpaid leave I have at work where I can go and take up to five years off to look after young ones. My mom is moving near me and has already volunteered to be a caregiver.

Dawny: it usually takes 2-3 days for my weight to go down after a big meal. I stepped on the scale this morning and was up about .5lbs, oh well I know my weight loss is never a straight line.

Cheers!

Ali

Only have a moment here, Ali, just wanted to say that I had an emerald ring with tiny diamonds from this other guy, but not committment to get married. I also had a home, and mortgage with him as well..... yet no marriage. He felt that was enough, I guess? I needed the formal thing, with our names the same, etc.
When I said, house, kids, dog.... guess I really meant to say marriage of everything in life, a true committment in legal terms to be together for a lifetime. Though, with today's divorce rate, who is to say what a "lifetime" is, sadly.
I hope you get what you want.
But, if nothing happens and time marches on, I wouldn't hesistate to give an ultimatum! (sp??) I'd wait until you are in those size 6 leather pants you want to wear and then say, it's time to get married or I am "outta here".... something like that at least!
I hope you get everything you want out of life, him, the weight, the kids, have it all!!!!!! You go girl!
I, on the other hand, have that stuff and cherish it! I shall do something for my darling husband today, just thinking about this subject, to show my appretiation for him! He's such a good guy! I'm lucky. Not trying to brag, just have been where you are a long time ago and appretiate what it takes to get HERE.
By the way, no life is perfect and my husband and I have our ups and downs as well.....
Take care, walk a few extra steps today everyone!
Linda

HI, Linda, nope, we don't have baby showers as such here. I wish we did. I should start a trend maybe. I'm still in the shock though of being a granny so young. DH was married the first time at 19, TOO young, and had 2 children by the age of 22. I could never have coped at that age if it had been me. Maybe they couldn't either and is why he's now been married to me for 12 years! AJ goes to daycare, but only for 3 days per week, so he gets the best of both worlds I think. His nursery is very high quality, he gets to socialise - hence lots of friends at his birthday party last week - and he's learning loads of stuff already. At only just 3, he knows his alphabet (to sing anyway) and can count to 20. That's the easy stuff. The manners etc seem to come quite naturally to him. He's a very 'pleasant' little boy, who seems to get on with everyone, doesn't beat up his friends too often(!) and is a natural entertainer. I'm happy with the care he receives, but I do sometimes wish that I could spend more time with him, I would love to be able to afford to stay at home full time with him, but, for now, it's not to be. I'm sure I would get alot more housework done too if I wasn't working. At least I don't do too many hours. I'm back at work tomorrow, by the way, after a couple of weeks off, I'm not really looking forward to it that much, but once I'm there, I'm sure it'll be fine. We have a load of kiddies from Chernobyl coming to have their eyes tested with us tomorrow. We see them all on a visit once a year, they visit the town for about 4 weeks every year and see and learn lots of things, and have lots of healthchecks while they are here. They are gorgeous. We always look forward to seeing them, and some of them are familiar as some are the same kiddies every year. It will be fun, but sometimes sad, as some of the children are ill, some have no families and when you see them looking so happy with the little gifts we give them on their visit, their little faces light up, it can be a bit overwhelming. I'll let you know how it goes.

Hi Ali, I think we should stop looking at these scales for a week, if we possibly can, and break the habit, as it's so addictive to keep getting on and off of the things. We get a bit 'miffed' if the results aren't what we expect to see, and get over optimistic if they look better than we could have ever hoped for. That could almost be a mini challenge to us all, to avoid the home scales for one week, and not weigh at all until the official WI. I don't think I could do it, do you?

Oh well, I'm going again. Linda, thanks for sharing the little bit of your past with us, sometimes its good to get it all out, and it helps us to know you a bit more too. By the way, did you keep the first ring? I'm curious as ever.

See ya later.

Linda: Thanks, I hope and think I can get what I want from my guy; he's wonderful in so many ways. He knows how I feel about marriage and kids and lately he's the one bringing it up. I guess the thing is, I haven't exactly been in a rush to get married either, not that I don't think he's the one, just more I guess I wanted to be on my own two feet more (I enjoy being independent). We compliment each other very well. We respect each other’s space and just have so much fun together. I still get butterflies when he comes home after work. I even am aware that common-law people who get married have a higher divorce rate. My parents started common-law and now have been married for 30years and know they are now becoming a rare breed. Thanks for having my interest at heart, I know what I am doing has risks involved, but again, thanks for sharing. I know I do need the piece of paper eventually since it means a heck of a lot more than that.

Dawny: yeah I know, I just don't like suprises at WI, so I like keeping tabs. I also know my weight loss likes to bounce around. That's awesome that you can do a part-time arrangement. I could possibly do that too when I have kids... I hope I can stay home for at least a while.

Cheers!

Ali:)

Hello you talkative people! Lots to read this morning, indeed!

Well, day 5 of morning exercise for me. I still don't want to get out of bed that early, but I believe it will be worth it.

Sorry about the "fat day" Dawny. I will feel slim & trim one day, and the next like a whale! I wonder if DH ever feels that way? Or if he cares that he does? I may have to ask. I still get amazed at some of our differences. He gets mad if I watch him in the kitchen. I know I make some awful facial expressions when he is dropping pasta or rice everywhere. I hope you and AJ enjoyed your outing to the park. I wish we had one better situated to our house. There is one nearby, but you have to cross 6 lanes of traffic at a main intersection to get there (or walk an extra ¼ mile out of your way). I just had a notion to borrow my FIL’s bike this afternoon and get in some more exercise.

I definitely prefer the yoga to the Pilates video I have tried. My friend is the opposite, so it is something we must each choose for ourselves. For some reason the Pilates bored me. The Yoga relaxed me, but still was a good stretch, which I think is good for toning. I ran out of time before church and didn’t get to finish the video. I think I will try to do the entire thing tomorrow. It is the first that I have tried. For $1.99, I figured it was worth a try.

Ali – I didn’t meet DH until Feb 2003. We were married March 2004. So, I know how that clock starts ticking louder!! It’s good that your guy is talking about marriage himself. I had a friend that practically begged her live-in guy of 4 years to get married. He finally proposed (somewhat under protest). Not surprising that turned out badly. One thing I love is that I met DH when I was trying WW for the first time and weighed 210. I started losing again in June at 230. I know that when I hit my goal, I can say that DH loved me through “thick & thin.” I have always been overweight and have had some people be very mean because of it. I appreciate that DH looked past the weight and saw me. As for the maternal instincts, I have a secret cure. Go to the Laundromat and hang out for a couple of hours. When you leave, you will have wanted to beat at least a dozen children that run wild and do not seem to have very good sense.

Linda – Mmmm… butter. I’ve definitely had too good of a relationship with my potatoes lately. We ate at Red Lobster for DH’s birthday and I suddenly realized that I had spent about 2 minutes just very intently focused on my baked potato! Felt like a dork. Luckily, I like them very well without sour cream and butter, so I can eat them plain when eating out away from my ff choices. I was also very proud that I ate only ½ of their yummy biscuit and then put the rest on DH’s plate or it would have been eaten.

Last night was ice cream night for the kids at church. I passed, but for dessert last night made my own version of a banana split with lf or ff selections. It was hard to not indulge with everyone else, but I still got the treat.

Have a great day, everyone!

Melanie: That's sweet... it's funny both my BF and I had lost significant amounts of weight before we met so we relate well on that and he doesn't mind me always cooking healthy meals. Sure he likes to go to restaurants a lot and occasinally order pizza (we just moved so he's trying to figure out which is the best Pizza near us), but he doesn't keep junkfood in the house and he likes my healthy meals so it's all good. My dad has seen my mom at all sorts of weight and he loves her no matter what. Yeah a friend of mine set out an ultimatum for her bf of 6 years, he finally asked her, they've been married for a year now. I found going to the store and having hyper ADD types or crying babies seem to act as temporary birth control for me.

I am weighing in tonight and getting my hair done. I am not too optimistic about WI, I seem to be up .5, but that happens I know.

Anyhoo have a good day!

Ali

Hi everyone, not alot to add today, had a good day foodwise. Trying to avoid carbs at lunchtime to at least give me one carb-free meal per day. I thought I'd give it a try to see if helped me out for a while. Still don't think the scales have moved in the right direction, so maybe I've begun to plateau a bit, so I think that I need to try something a bit different to help the loss on its way. Don't know if it will make the slightest bit of difference, or how long the carb free lunches will last, but maybe worth a try. I've been downing lots of water, and back at work today, lots of good old English Tea too. I can't seem to move away from the bathroom for more than 20 minutes though which is a slight problem. Especially when I'm supposed to be with my patients. The Chernobyl kiddies came by the way. They were as gorgeous and hyper as ever. They brought us a little gift from Belarus, Chocolates! We decided we may not eat them, wise decision probably, in case they are 'infected' with radiation. I'm sure they would be fine, but you just never know do you! I think we are probably being really stupid, but it's a good enough excuse for me to not eat any of them.

Ali, hope the new hair-do is ok. I'm ready for mine, for I've been trying to grow it for a while, and I don't really want it all cutting off again, if you know what I mean. Enjoy WI, I'm sure it will be better than you think.

Melanie, Linda and anyone else, hope you are all ok. Speak soon.

Dawny, I had to laugh when you said if you were home more that your house would be cleaner - I think it's the opposite! My sister used to work full time and she would say that the house got NO messier all day when she was working and her son was in daycare! So, if it was picked up the night before and they rushed out in the morning, it was better that way. At least for her, anyway! When she and her husband both worked, they could afford a maid service as well. Must have been nice.
I gave that first ring to my sister, as "costume jewelry" as I didn't want to look at it. Sadly, someone broke into her house and stole it later on.
Maybe for the best?
Ali, I hope things go well. I am glad "he" is bringing up the married thing now more than you! That is a good sign! Didn't mean to pry.
I, also, step in my scale at least once a day. I wonder if I could stay off it for a few days and learn to relax? We'll see.
Melanie, so glad your DH has been there for you through thick and thin!
My WI was "ok" today, lost .8, will send a PM to Natalie tomorrow. Am totally out of on line time.
Linda in NH

Ali - LOL! Yep. The supermarket is a good place too! Sorry about the little gain. A grain of sand. Nothing at all. You will get rid of it stepping off the scale!

Dawny - Good idea. Just think of chocolate as posion. :hungry: Good luck with cutting back on carbs. I'm trying something new today. Usually, on Wednesdays I get fast food breakfast: Cappicino, Egg McMuffin (taking out yolk). Today, I am having a Cappicino and Fruit 'n Yogurt. I’m hoping that switch and no soda today will make for a better WI result tonight. For some reason, the scale on Wed. is just not showing what I think it should.

Linda – Good luck with the scale removal. I usually weigh once in the morning (like the littler number) and once at about 6:30p (regular WI time). I know it is silly, but I want to see if I’m making progress. Unfortunately, I feel lately a little obsessed with it. Talking about recipes, exercises, clothing, etc. I feel like I am becoming a bore. I hope it one day soon becomes second nature. Good work on the loss. .8 is healthy and good. Of course, we always want more. 2.8 would be nice, I know. But considering that you are changing course of action and still getting the hang of Core, that is really good!

Well, yesterday I had a chubby day. I just didn’t feel like I had made progress because I was looking at how far I have yet to go and feeling like I won’t make my 50# goal by Thanksgiving (11/25, for those not U.S.). I asked in prayer last night that I get some encouragement today because I want to keep going. And, today has been good so far. I got dressed, looked in the mirror, and wearing clothing that almost fits (not too big), I decided I looked skinny. :smug: I could see the results. I hope the scale tonight sees the results too. :goodscale:

Later!

Hello all,Linda, yeah, I think I have to agree about the housework thing, if I think if through properly... although if maybe I was the only one in the house all day, it could work. That just aint going to happen though. Congrats on the loss. I knew you could get some off this week, as Melanie says, we do always want more and we are obviously naturally greedy about that I think, any loss, is, at least, a loss.

Melanie, hi, I never know quite how to work things on a WI day, as I don't want to fill up too much during the day and weigh heavy falsly on the night. I also am not the sort of person to starve myself all day in the hope that might do the trick. Do you just have brekkie, or do you still snack through out the day on WI day? I'm glad you are having a 'skinny' day today. It's hard after you have had a one bad day to pick yourself up again, and not feel too down about things. I think it's a good thing to have a goal in mind, like your thanksgiving goal, but I wouldn't get too obsessed with reaching that figure by then. I think the way that you are going that you have every chance of reaching it without a problem, but you mustn't be hard on yourself if you don't, as you have already done fantastic anyway. I already know that my mini goal of 2.5 by tonight is a million miles off. I will be lucky if .5 comes off this week. Don't know why really, and I said no excuses, so I can't blame the Chinese from the other night. I have been walking alot more than usual, I have done my Tae Bo video this morning, for 30 minutes. I have to admit that I had to blow the cobwebs off it as I haven't used it for about 3 years! I'm aching. I've also just done a 2-3 mile walk pushing AJ on his little trike to our local canal to feed some swans. Its a nice little walk, a bit hilly in places but all the better if I think of the fitness benefits - if I don't think of that I'd stay at the bottom of the hills!!! At least I don't have to cross 6 lanes of traffic to get to these places, like you Melanie, I can't imagine that, I suppose although we're all very similar to each other inside, the worlds we live in make our lifestyles very different. For example, we could get on our bicycles at home, head down to the canal, and follow the pathway for miles, away from any traffic, if our butts would take it that is, in beautiful countryside with gnats, flies and mud everywhere. Really, we ought to take advantage of our surroundings much more than we do, I suppose like alot of things, we do take it for granted.

Anyway, I'm off to check progress of some stuff on eBay, nothing exiting though, just some tools for DH, thrilling day I've got then. Good luck with the rest of the WI's, back later.

Hi everyone, me again, just a quick visit after WI, and I am not a happy bunny. I have put on .5 this week, and so, despite doing all the exercise, still not done well. My leader assured me that because I've upped my exercise dramatically in a short length of time, then I will have retained more water to protect my joints, and it should drop off next week. Don't know if I believe her or not, but next week will tell. I just think its part of the plateau, I will just have to keep grasping all of your support and keep going regardless, and not feel too defeated. Oh well, that's it for tonight, see ya later.

Hi all,

I just started WW yesterday and started the program (as far as food and what not) today. I am doing fine, not much problems. Here is my question. What do you do about serving sizes when you have a cute as a button 4 yr old who wants to "share" mommy's food? It's very cute. Today I got the cravings so I decided to have a 2 pt protien shake and she loves it so she drinks like half, but being that it's not a clear container, i have no way of knowing the exact amount she drank, lol.

I have heard that you should have at least ALL your points but this may put me under. I am not far enough in the program to start witht he activity points and want to save my extras for the weekend when me and the hubby go out.

I just want this to work so bad and do not want anything working agianst me. So just let me know.

I am not doing an individual post at this time, it would take me hours to read all the posts, so I'll start from here. Thanks for having me and helping!

Dawny - the walk you described sounds wonderful! I live in the middle of town. While it is not a large city, there are roads and businesses everywhere. There is a state park that has a lovely walking trail (where DH proposed), but I feel silly driving 20 minutes to walk!

Shucks! Hate to hear about the gain! But, .5 could have been anything. I agree w/ your leader. If you stick with it, you will probably see a loss next week. Are you eating enough? Getting your dairy? I have read over and over that if you don't eat enough points, you just won't lose.

Bella - Welcome to our thread! And to WW. I don't know what to tell you about the sharing, unless you can talk her into getting her own "special" cup to drink like Mommy. Then you could figure out what you have given her.

I understand not wanting any road blocks. A good start helps so much in motivation. Just remember, that it is a start and may take time to get the hang of everything.

I've rarely if ever eaten below my points. I ususally use a couple of FPs. But, I have read posts from several people that say they lose better if they eat their points + some Flex. If you eat below your daily min., you body will not want to let go of what it's got!

BTW, Husband insists that we will one day name our first born daughter Bella. He actually told me that before we were even engaged!

I'll check back in either tonight or in the morning to post my WI results. Happily, I hope!

Good evening! Sorry I was absent for a bit, was soooo busy yesterday and today! I missed you guys!
Welcome to Bella! I think the answer for you is to go on to WW new Core program! If you eat all "core" foods they tell you to, of course, use portion control, but you eat until you feel "satisfied" basically. So, by going on the core plan, if your little one takes a bit you won't feel as if you are losing your food, but dish out a tiny bit extra that you put away if she doesn't eat it? If she doesn't want it, you have to resist thinking of it as your "bonus". Does that make sense? Also, maybe buy a very tempting and attractive dish, cup and bowl set for your young one that makes "their" own portion very special!!! That way your food won't be as tempting?
Also, one other really humorous thought is to keep eating what your little one hates! Silly me!
Melanie, I feel FAT this week as well, not sure why. I feel like I don't LOOK thinner like I was looking anymore. Maybe it's just getting used to the initial change in my body of losing some weight and now it seems to be coming off SO slowly! Darn!
Sure wish we could just wave a magic wand and all the pounds we want would just dissapear.
Dawny, pnt 5 could have been different socks, don't worry! I keep hearing that exercise makes you hold fluid in your muscles and it's important to acheive a balance. I'm not "there" yet, just so you know!
Gotta go, sure wish I had more time tonight.... tomorrow is another day!
Linda in busy NH

Hi, all! Doing my morning check-in before slaving away for the paycheck!

Linda - Sorry about the blahs. They happen. For me, it ended yesterday. I don't want to give up. So, I prayed for motivation. Then, the next day (yesterday), I got dressed, looked in the mirror, and I saw the difference. I looked at myself and saw someone thinner looking back at me. I went downstairs to make sure my husband had noticed it too. (smart man agreed with me) Then I was on my way to work and realized that my prayer had been answered. I did not wake up to see a size 8 person, but my attitude was changed to see the good. Very cool. So, that's my solution to the blahs. Turn it over to the Big Guy.

I agree. It had to be the socks. Before I went to WI last night, I weighed with the pants on that I had worn to work. Then, I weighed with the shorts that I usually wear. It was a .5 difference, so I wore the shorts. :D A lady asked me what I was going to do in the winter. I told her I would get a big, long coat!

So, my news… lost 3.2#!!!!! I did a few things different this week. I exercised every morning for 30 min. (gee… maybe “they” are right about this exercise thing) and did not drink a diet soda the past 2 days. And, I moved to the 24 pt scale. So, I am going to try to do the same things this week too. That puts my grand total at .1 away from 35#. What the heck. I’m adding another little dancing guy. You guys won’t lock me up for cheating a little will you? I’m sure that .1 was ear wax or something. And I had my watch on. ;)

Later!

Emerald: sorry about your chubby day. I got those even when I was skinny. I retain water so easily. I guess that's why I am so blase about 1 gain, I get mad if the trend is upward, but if it's downward I am fine, but my I water retain for everything it seems.

Linda: Speaking of little ones, I read somewhere we should start thinking of food in childlike terms. We have our "good" foods and "sometimes" foods etc. You quilt? I'd love to do that one day. I should be finally bring my sewing machine to my new place soon.

Dawny: I was up to. It's probably a blip.. I get small gains and then a big loss so I end up going down overall. Have you taken your measurements?

Bella: Welcome!

I am doing well. I got my hair done and it looks great!

Cheers!

Ali

Hey guys!
Thanks for your "get well" comments. I used to faint every time I got my period a few years ago. I had some tests and there was nothing wrong. Then I stopped fainting, but it happened again now, and I just can't understand why. Anyway, I feel better now, TOM has gone and I also lost another 3.3 pounds, I'm really happy!!
My computer broke down so I couldn't get online to talk with you, but I'm back now!! :) I'm running a little late now, so I'll check back later. Take care!! :)

Hi Ya'll!
I'm new to this site but back at WW for I think the 3rd time. This is my third week and I'm determined to DO IT this time. Hope it's OK for me to join ya'll on this thread. I've never in my life been active on a discussion board, so be patient with me while I learn the rules of the road. I'm more motivated this time in WW because I'd reached an ALL TIME HIGH or low, depending on how you look at it. I saw that number and was shocked. Yeah, I knew I couldn't fit into hardly anything, but something about seeing the number just really got my attention. I got serious and I've been focused and doing well these first two weeks and am in the middle of my third week. I do find myself eating the same 'safe foods' over and over again. I fear I may get bored and end up going off program. I also have the likelihood of sabotaging myself over some emotional upset. Anyway, I'm here and hope to get some pointers from this place.

Hello everyone.

Well its the day after the night before and I think I can cope with the fact that I gained this week. I haven't had that many gaining weeks so it was a bit of a shock to the system, but I'll live, I'll concentrate on that Christmas goal. Of course I've counted the weeks and its 14 weeks, not 16 as I thought, (you'll be very glad to know I'm sure) and that puts my target of 16.5 pounds by Christmas a bit tougher now. We'll have to see how it goes.

Bella, hi there, welcome to our board. I have a little one too. My AJ was 3 last week, and doesn't pick too often off of my plate or drinks, but when he does steal his share, I just don't bother with it. I will have already worked out my points and as we really have no way of knowing if they've had as much as .5 pts worth or not, or more, then I don't bother. Likewise, I do have to watch if I pinch any of his! I do sometimes, one of my downfalls at times I'm afraid, and it can be hard to remember to count those points, I will learn one day.

Angela, another new 'loser' to join us, welcome. I had never done this type of board before either, and do you know, I've made some great friends, I couldn't have made a better choice of thread to join. Bear with us. We do talk food, we do talk points, we do gossip alot too and sometimes talk a bit of nonsense (in my case anyway), but it's very addictive on here, and there's always someone not too far away if you are struggling or feeling down. Share the good days too, it makes us all feel better!

Linda, sorry you are having a 'fat' week. I have a few of those, but not as many now as I used too. At least you lost this week. You'll feel different again in a day or two, especially if you've been too busy to do much exercise or anything. I think you always feel worse if you haven't had chance to do anything to feel better about yourself. I hope you get a bit of time to yourself soon, and enjoy it. You can appreciate me-time alot more when you have had a few days of not having any.

Melanie, great loss again. That is fab. Your prayers are obviously being listened to closely, someone if paying attention and even DH is doing as he is told. Dont worry about your dancing man. .1 wouldn't even be noticed or counted over here, so consider yourself at 35 down. Congratulations. I'm proud of you. I tend to change clothes before WI too, if something I'm wearing is just that .5 or more than I want it to be then I'll find something lighter. I wouldn't ever consider jeans to wear to WI, they add at least 2 - 3 pounds. That would never do. I do however now blame my .5 gain on the fact that my hair is getting longer. I know I said last week no excuses, but you need some reason at least, don't you?

By the way, Angela, or can I call you princess? I eat alot of the same foods all the time, and I always have done. Don't get bored with eating foods that you don't like for the sake of being 'healthy'. I believe in eating things that are good for you, obviously, but also, a little bit of what you fancy does you good. Every so often if you crave something, a tiny piece of chocolate for example, then have some, in moderation, it takes away that desperate 'need', you will get it out of your system and not feel that you have blown it. You can then continue as you were without feeling too deprived, or bored. That's probably a load of waffle, but I know what I mean.

See ya all later.

Ali – Glad you like the new do! I am considering something different. Definitely need to liven up the color. Since my mother is a hairdresser, I play a lot.

Natalie!!! You are back!! Well, most of you. 3.3# less, huh? Just had to beat my 3.2, didn’t ya!?! :D Just kidding. Good news, great job. I’m glad you are feeling better.

Angela – Your Majesty, welcome! Always love to have new folks join! I’m glad you found us. Three weeks! How is it going? As for the discussion board, I had visited several times in the past, but didn’t make it a way of life until a few months ago! The ladies on here are just so great, I don’t like to miss a day checking in! Gotta know how everyone is doing and share what is going on with me (assuming everyone wants to know ;) So, just chat away. If you need some variety, I have a TON of recipes I have copied from this website and others – with the points already tallied! (I’m too cheap to buy a cookbook) I also have some recipes for crockpot and non-cookers if you need. Just let me know.

Dawny – Hello! I expected you would have some great advice for being a good, point countin’ mommy! I sometimes will guess a little high on points and write it off as probably being over somewhere else. While I think we should try our best, you are right. We’re not doing brain surgery. An occasional point off won’t be terrible.

Oh, I hope you don’t lose hope on reaching your goal. I know it’s tough, but you can still do it! Just gotta figure out how to get things cranked back up. Didn’t you move down in points before the numbers said you should? Maybe you are actually not eating enough. I have heard that can cause you to not lose. Just a thought. BTW, I agree. There is a difference between excuses and reasons.

I have an idea. Since there are several new people on here, I though maybe you gals would like to do a quick survey to introduce ourselves. If you don’t want to answer, no prob. Just thought it would be good to know a little about each other.

Name: Melanie
Location: KY, USA
Marital Status: Married 6 months
Kid/ages: None
Occupation: Paralegal
Hobbies: Reading, cooking, volunteering at church, swimming (when the weather allows), movies (all kinds)
Preferred Exercise: Low-impact Aerobic videos, Yoga videos, pool volleyball
Reasons to lose weight: easier to put my feet up in movie theaters and annoy the person in front of me; easier to find clothing at yard sales; my furniture will last longer; not feel like people are watching me when I order ice cream; less effort expended to fasten seat belt; my suitcase will weigh less on the next vacation; I can pack more in my suitcase on vacation; to name a few. :lol:

Well, time to go home. I’ll check back in later.

Thanks all for the welcome. I am just amazed at how easy it is to do the points plan, now I have a good bit of points and can't believe I am allowed to eat this much on a "diet" plan. This is day three and I am totaly on program and SO proud of myself!

I can't wait till next week when I can weigh in. And that is SO not like me on any plan, I usually HATE to get weighed in! I am just a little worried that the scales will stay the same because of all the food I am allowed to eat. But we'll see. If they do not go down, then at least I'll know I have done my best!

Thanks for the support!
Bella23

HI everyone!
Welcome to PrincessAngela! Were you affected by the hurricane a bit, or now? Definitely add some variety to your diet as boredom is not a good thing and leads to cheating and binges! There are tons of good recipes on this site and we all post them from time to time here as well. What are you craving?
Melanie, such a good girl! You did the right thing and you are showing it! Way to go! Putting it in the hands of the man upstairs is the way to go as well! I put my husband's job and our financial situation in his hands as well not long ago, and I can feel that certain changes might happen in the near future, at least I hope so!
It had to be socks Melanie! By the way, I went to the store and hand weighed all the socks, bras and underwear in there and now have a "Tuesday" set of special underwear (yes, I am certifiably nuts!) that I wear on weigh in days! I wear the same exact thing every week as I don't want to see a change in my weight because of what I wear. Of course, the thin cotton short sleeved blouse won't be very warm in January, but, maybe I will "bite the bullet" and wear a warmer shirt one week and continue wearing that all winter on Tuesdays? We'll see. :cool:
Nice to have you back, Natalie, was wondering about you. Glad you are feeling better and what a great loss! You are doing so very well, surely people are really noticing now! You must be so happy!
Dawny, I've had my gaining weeks as well, this you guys know. I've been at this since April and have only lost 12 pounds, but was down to 13 pounds a few weeks ago. I have 14 left to get to goal. I am not giving up and I know you are not either.
It's the hardest thing you will ever do in your life, I am convinced and takes daily moment by moment will power.
Hey, here is a CORE recipe, probably 2 points a serving, and you guys might really like it......
Take an apple (you can peel it if you want to, but I like the skin), cut it in chunks and sprinkle Splenda (or other sugar substitute) and cinnamon and nutmeg. Cover and microwave about 2 minutes, set aside to cool. Then, make up sugar free, fat free vanilla pudding with skim milk and stir in the apple mixture. Put in 4 serving dishes (use a wine glass to make it pretty!) and chill. Sprinkle a bit of nutmeg over top before eating. Really a comfort food tasting thing..... enjoy!!!!
Linda

Hello! Okay. I am really excited and determined to meat (ha, ha. what a typo here!) meet my Thanksgiving day goal. I want to hit the 50# mark before then and use that time to take my mother up on her offer of new clothes when I make that goal. I still can’t believe that “I”, the person who does not want to get up until I have to be out the door for work, have actually exercised each morning for a whole week! And I am starting to enjoy it! That is the strangest thing. DH, who is supportive 99% of the time, is not helping in this matter though. He’s not a morning person AT ALL, and wants me to stay and cuddle with him. I really got peeved this morning, because it made me feel bad to leave him, but I have to stick to this! I have a feeling that if I can get past that 50# mark, I will be more determined to reach goal and keep the weight off. Mr. Been-Thin-All-His-Life-While-Eating-Two-Candy-Bars-A-Day just doesn’t get it sometimes. But, he is good for the most part. I am trying to write it off as morning madness.

Now, here’s something REALLY weird. I’m sitting at my desk, and I am anxious for the day to be over because I want to go for a long walk. Okay. I have craved brownies, pizza, soda, cookies, and even broccoli. But craving physical exercise? That’s just not like me!

Bella – I’m glad the WW plan is going good for you! It does seem like a lot of food when you first start, huh? Some people have trouble because they are still trying to fit a Big Mac into the mix. But, if you learn to make healthier choices, you get lots of food. And, as you go along, you learn how to really stretch those points (low fat cheeses instead of regular, spices instead of sauces, for example). Excited about WI? Yep. When I know I’ve done good, I am always anxious to step on the scale. But, when I’ve been bad, and I know I’ve been bad, I’m not so happy about it. So, being excited is a good sign!!

Linda – I don’t see any craziness. I’ve already given thought to what I will wear each Wednesday during the winter! And, I know that my fancy aqua look-at-me bra isn’t the best choice either. Building the top makes the bottom look better, but I know it has to weigh more than my modest flatter ones. Thanks for the recipe. I was trying to think of something new to make this week. And, thanks for an idea I got off another of your posts. Pizza night sounds great. But, I’m not much of a cook on Friday and Saturdays. I will probably make a big salad and go to the grocery to discover the healthiest choice of frozen pizza. Might end up getting a Lean Cuisine for me and regular for DH. Or maybe making my own (but I doubt it). I have been wanting to try Heaven’s Bistro frozen pizza, but it is not sold in my area and I would have to order it on-line. I might try getting one and see what happens. If the reviews match up, I will have to stock up in my MIL’s deep freeze.

Well, I will check back later. Hope everyone’s weekend is off to a good start!

Hi there, loads of posts to read again tonight, it's definitely keeping me out of mischief and away from the kitchen, and for that, I thank you all!

I've had a good day I think today, a couple of nice comments about the weight loss, which of course always goes down well, and a nice healthy dinner tonight. I think I'm going to skip the idea of dropping to 18 points too early for now. Melanie, I think maybe you could be right and although I haven't really gone under the 18, and sometimes have used all 20 points, maybe it's too little, too often. So, I'll fill myself up a bit more, and use 20 for a while, and together with a bit more exercise, who knows, maybe I may be back on track before we know it. This exercise thing is addictive isn't it? I have been in the situation before where I couldn't get enough of it, and it's taken a long time this time to get into it, but now, even the extra walking is appealing. I always used to get up extra early and do my large selection of videos, or even go jogging, can't do that now though, and AJ might not be too impressed going outdoors at 6am, me neither come to that, but at other times, who knows!

Going to have to go for now, DH is moaning I'm on the pc for too long, and he's feel rejected. I'll be back tomorrow, sleep well all.

Good Morning Everyone!! Thanks for the welcome! WOW! First, it's taken me a while to figure out where I posted LOL... I'm crackin myself up here... been searching for daayyyzzz... but I found myself so now I know where I am and I know how to find myself again so I'll remember how to post here again. Ya'll can call me Angela, the Princess thing is a long story and I'll go into it later. I have WI today -in a few minutes as a matter of fact, so wish me luck, say your prayers, whatever works for you, DO IT! I feel confident that I've lost again this week. I did find some other things to eat thiis week. I found my old food journals, so I'm doing much better about eating a variety of things. I hate to be so brief but I gotta get ready to go WI. I'm excited and nervous at the same time.... I gotta figure out how to be all cute with those little characters.... don't worry, I'll be catchin up with ya'll in a few. Thanks again for the warm welcome. Oh, naw, I didn't get any of the storm, thank goodness, but we did cancel a road trip / vacation we had planned thru that area. Those poor folks, keep them in your prayers. Make it a great day everyone : )

Hi, all! Just popping in while I have a few minute and the computer is working.

Today is shaping up to be a busy one. I REALLY wanted to sleep in, but DH woke me up about 6:30. He gets stirred, and just rolls back over for more sleep. I, on the other hand, cannot got back to sleep at that time of day. So, after pestering him for a few minutes, I gave in and got up. Had to be at church for a meeting at 8 anyway. Urgh! It was my first Saturday morning meeting for the kids' group. Only 3 other leaders showed up (out of about 20). I thought about calling everyone else to wake them up!

Oh, well. Then I came home and again enjoyed the wonders of the egg substitute. I was leary at first. It has taken me months to get past my fears that they would be like powdered eggs (kinda gritty and obviously fake), but I had one of the best omelets ever. Then, I pulled out the Yoga video. (enjoying the play-by-play, folks?). And, Surprise!, MIL has offered to take us to lunch. Wish I had known that before having my big ol' omelet! So, now I am going to get ready for a light lunch with her and DH before going to the grocery and baking a cake for the potluck tonight. Sigh. Maybe I will rest tomorrow. But, it will be a good day.

Hope the WI went wonderful, Angela. I'm sure it did! I will try to click on later to check! Some weekends the boards are kinda slow, as we are all so busy. But we try to keep in touch!

Someone take a nap for me! Please!

Hi, I made it back, sorry it's a day later than I expected, but better later than never!

Angela, hope your WI went well! :goodluck: I'm sure you've done fine, I think that if you are looking forward to the WI, then it's a good sign that you will have lost. Have a little treat after WI, I do, it's my time of the week when I can enjoy some things that I've been missing. Usually take outs or something like that. That way I don't feel deprived.

DH is cooking me a meal tonight. :chef: I almost passed out when he told me. I think it's pasta, but who cares! I've left him a list of how much I can have, he must weigh everything, and how long to cook for etc, but I think he'll do ok. Can't remember the last time he cooked for me. I did get breakfast in bed while I was ill, but it was only cornflakes, so that doesn't really count does it? :hyper: I've noticed him looking secretly at the candles too, so I'm wondering a bit what he's up to, but maybe it's all innocent, and we we just have a really nice evening in. I'll keep you posted. I have loads of points saved up, so I can enjoy it too!

Melanie, like the idea of a little intro from us all, to those who don't know us too well yet. I just hope I don't frighten anyone off, so here goes:
Dawny, live in sunny Chesterfield, England,
Married, 12 years in October, 1 little boy, AJ, was 3 last week(I don't think I mention him too often do I?)
started WW for the first time in Jan 2004, still going, enjoying every minute.
First diet I've been able to say I enjoy!
starting weight 181.5, current weight,142.5, goal weight aprox 126 - expected as near to Christmas as poss, although know now that it may be just after rather than just before!
5"1', so I'm a titch, so every pound shows.
I enjoy walking, reading, working - I'm an optical dispenser (I measure you up for your new specs!) playing with AJ and generally being a mummy. Oh, and I do enjoy a glass of red wine now and again, but it doesn't like me too much any more, I don't drink too much these days so it knocks me out when I have some! :cheers:
Can't think of anything else, hope I didn't bore you.

Off now to enjoy the rest of the weekend. See ya later.

Hi guys!
Melanie, you go girl with that exercise! We have people that sabotage us at times (like my husband as well with his nightly ice cream "fix") and we have to learn to deal with and counteract that.
Why not invite your husband to join you in some exercise or walks? Perhaps if you make it sound like a romantic thing he might think about it? :devil:
Pizza night was really good. By the way, the Polenta crust recipe you posted, Melanie was such a hit - just fabulous! And, using eggplant and portabella mushrooms (the huge ones that are about 4" around) were so very good! Yummy night and low on points and mostly "core". I ate well and felt great, it was yummy! What more could one ask for? :chef:
Angela, can't wait to read how you made on in your weigh in. This is a fairly large web site, there is a spot to click on at the top called Thread Tools and you can click on that and subscribe to threads (or sections) of this site and get e-mails when new posts are made. I am on about 4 or 5 threads and try to stick with only those. I seldom have time to browse through this entire site and read lots of stuff, but have settled into a few threads that are right for me, and I love everyone who posts here! Newcomers are always welcome, though. We've been helping each other and getting to know each other.
Also, if you click above where it says post reply, you get a selection of smiles and little animated cute things on the right and you can add those in where the cursor is. Also, if you click below them where it says "more", you get more choices, lots of fun things to put in! Like this: :strong:
Dawny, I was thinking that you were eating to few points, to be honest. One thing I have learned is that you should eat your full points allowance and not cut yourself back too much or you will end up staying the same or on a plateau. I do think that a person's body thinks it is being starved when you eat too little and that can slow down the weight loss. Odd that this can happen, but I think it's true. If you step up your activity level a bit and eat all 20 points, you'll probably see the weight start to drop a bit. I am sure not an expert, though, as you know that I've been "hovering" at about the same weight for ages, it seems. But, I am really feeling more in control and better this week than I have in ages.... maybe, just maybe, that scale at ww will be kind this week?
I worked out this morning and did the treadmill. I "felt" skinnier and more powerful today, for whatever reason. I was doing my outer thigh exercises and for the second time in the last week, I was able to keep up with the aerobics person on the tape and NOT quit early! A great NSV (non scale victory for the newcomers!). I felt so accomplished!
Melanie, keep that in mind, working out makes you feel happier, stronger and more powerful as a person! I've been working out and doing the treadmill since April and I am finally really taking note of big changes in my body. Even the backs of my upper arms aren't "jiggling" as much and look smaller to me in the mirror, a way good feeling!!!!!
Also, Angela, Dawny is right about allowing yourself a little "treat" after weigh in. I usually have something for dinner that is very high in sodium either the day of or day after weigh in, like ham, packaged taco mix (which I adore and know it's bad for me) or something like that. The sodium can really make you retain fluid and cause weight gain, never had something like that a day or two before weigh in if you can help it!
Good idea about the introductions, Dawny! I'll do mine.
Linda, live in Plaistow NH (southern NH near Mass. border and about 6 miles from the ocean)
Married 20 years since June, have two children one 16, Jeff who plays amazing guitar like Eddie Van Halen and one Jamie Kate, 13, who sings soprano and will be appearing in Godspell sometime soon. Both are very musically talented and my husband and I are not, we joke about them getting their talents from us, and don't really have a clue how they got so talented! My daughter Jamie is also going to WW with me and is doing quite well, has lost 8 pounds since about July?
I'm a "Lifetime" Weight Watchers person. I lost all my weight, originally, when my daughter was about 3. I stayed slimmer for awhile and then, gradually, gained it all back. My biggest downfall was assuming that I could keep my weight off by not bothering to continue to go to ww meeting. A huge mistake! Don't EVER do that guys, keep going and keep aware, never give up!
At any rate, I tried going back to ww several times and would get so far and then drop out again after starting to re-gain weight. I'd lose a little and lose control.
This time is different. First, I am now 49 and getting scared about all the health risks associated with a body mass index of over 25. I was at 30 before and am now, according to ww, at about 27 - a bit better!
My goal weight is 136 and I am "hovering" at about 150ish, and have lost 12 pounds. I was down 13 pounds and then went away for a long weekend a few weeks ago and put 1.8 pounds back on in one weekend, a disaster! But, have to admit I totally enjoyed that weekend! OH well.
I love sewing and quilting and cooking. I do lots of volunteer work and make quilts for the homeless and children who have cancer. I am presently working on quilts for the families of soldiers who have died in Iraq or Afghanistan.
So, life is busy, but a happy life for us.
Oh yes, I just LOVE chocolate....
Hope to hear more from the rest of you, it's great that we've all "bonded" here. We have something very important in common, we all help each other and it's so fun to get to know everyone!
Linda in rainy NH were we have the remnants of hurricane Ivan today.... nasty stuff!

Hi all! I am just on cloud 9. Today is day 4 for me and I am totaly on track. I don't think I have ever been on a diet or way of eating for this many days with out me being a complete mess! I am just amazed also at what I can eat. I love hamberg helper and on most plans it is a NO NO. Well It was 9 points, but I was able to eat a little over a cup and feel satisfied. I love that. I never crave anything. I am still a little worried that I won't loose anything when I weigh in on Tuesday! I guess i'm just used to starving and loosing a bit not eating and being satisfied and loosing.

Well that's all the ranting I'll do tonight lol. I can't wait till Tuesday!!! I just want to believe that this will work for me!

TTYL,

Dawny - I'm excited to see how the romantic dinner went! You have to fill us in!

Linda - You are right about how we are bonding on here. I thought of you twice this weekend. Once when eating pizza last night and again while cooking a chocolate torte today! I thought, "Gee, Linda would love this." I'm glad your family liked the polenta crust. I need to fix that again. I was craving some pizza yesterday, so I got online and figured out that Domino's hand-tossed w/ ham, pineapple & onion was only 4 pts per slice! And they cooked it for me! :D It was YUMMY! But, after that, today's lunch, and potluck at church, I'm feeling like a :ink:! But, was was OP yesterday and only used about 3 FPs today, so I think it will be okay at WI.

Bella - It's great to hear you so excited about WW! People are amazed when they see the yummy things I eat and I am still losing weight. They ladies I meet with at church are doing a different food plan that isn't as flexible. They are really getting irked that I am losing so much more than them and I am still eating fun stuff. :lol: We must all find what works best for us! Keep up the good work and high spirits.

Well, we just stopped to rent a video, so I had better go give some attention to DH. I was going to take a day off from exercise tomorrow, but the way I feel right now, I had better do a double dose!

Love to you all. :grouphug:

:cb: WI was a SUCCESS!! 3#'s down, Lordknowshowmany to go! I'm not even counting THAT number yet!! Had a pretty good day. Mostly just took it easy. I'm still trying to learn the fun stuff related to this posting thing. I wrote a post earlier and somehow managed to lose the darn thing. SO frustrating! :shrug: Wanted to thank ya'll for the warm welcome. A little about me. I'm Angela, lived in Texas my entire life, 37, 'single' (THAT's a story I'll tell later when we're gossiping :gossip: ), no kids, BUT I happen to have the most precious nephews in the entire world. CJ is 7, Jordan is 5, Jackson is going to be 2 on Wednesday and that's where the Princess stuff comes from. They are my little universe! I'm a Clinical Social Worker, who ended up on the corporate side of the mental health field (somebody's gotta run those places!). I work alot, but I love it. Oky Doky, enough about me (for now). I'll talk to ya'll later. Let's see if THIS one goes thru!

Bella, glad the plan seems so good for you. Be careful with Hamburger Helper, I love it too and it's chock full of sodium. You can find recipes, I'll scout for a few for you as well, that are similar in flavor and texture, but without all the additives. But, you can work that stuff (in moderation) in to your program, and that is the wonderful part about flex points! Sometimes, you just have to give in to your desires for a certain thing in order to acheive your goals. Of course, here I am lecturing you, and I had Chinese food last night. I was VERY careful to use portion control and threw the leftovers in the trash and that is "it" for me as far as a main "treat" for the weekend, though. So much sodium in that, and I weigh in on Tuesday, I need to be careful!
Melanie, that hand tossed pizza sounds pretty good to me. Glad you thought of me when you were eating, I can "share" your treats without seeing them on my own hips!
Angela, I'll just bet that after you reach your goal weight, you won't be "single" much longer! I don't mean to think that no one would love you with your weight on, in fact one of us who posts here knows that for sure! I'll let her tell her own story!
At any rate, your nephews sound wonderful. I have two kids due to my nephew. When my husband and I got married, we were going to be professionals and not have kids. Then, my nephew Matt was born and I "fell in love" and that darn biological clock thing happened and I was "hooked". Soon, afterwards, my Jeff came along and my life was totally changed! I wouldn't have it any other way!
So, it's off line for me now, have to get ready for church and then we are painting.
Am thinking of a day off from my workouts? Sunday is supposed to be a day of rest, but I did have that Chinese last night (however, used the flex points within my program to do so, at least).
Linda in sunny NH where it's a cool 43 degrees today

Well this may get me totally kicked off here, but I'm not single b/c of my weight I'm single because I'm a lesbian and can't legally marry ;) . It's certainly not a big deal to me but sometimes people freak out. I just wanted to clear the air. I do think that once I lose the weight I will be more 'attractive' although that's never kept them at bay. I wish I could have kids, I've literally tried everything, every medical procedure, not gonna happen. I've considered domestic and international adoption. I think I've decided to be the best Aunt in the world. Lord knows those boys need as many 'parents' as they can handle. Ya know, I had chinease food yesterday too - right after weigh in. I'm still dying of thirst (paying for THAT one!) Guess that means I'll get all the water in huh? Ya'll have a good one!

Hi everyone, just a quick one today, (yeah, I know you've heard that one before!).
Had a great meal last night. DH cooked spaghetti bolognese, he counted my points and I didn't do too bad at all. We had a lovely time, dressed up, danced (thats a first)and even had ice cream. Then we decided to watch a movie, and snuggled up and promptly fell asleep. Well the thought was there eh?

Sounds as if everyone is having a lovely weekend too. Lots of pizza and chinese particularly by the sounds of it. I love chinese, but I think lasts weeks will be the last for a while, after my little gain,and Linda, you are so right about my points. I will stick to my official 20 for now. I've done it all along, and now I will not drop my point level until I'm told to!

Angela, fantastic loss this week, it's fab when it works out as planned. Even sticking to WW is easy though I think, but as I haven't done too badly up to press, then I suppose I'm biased. Thanks for sharing the personal stuff. I personally dont care what people do, what colour they are, or what religion or who people want to go out with. As far as I'm concerned, you either have a partner or you don't. Unfortunately for you, at this moment in time, you don't, but you have some new friends here, and I'm sure they will agree with me, that we will be here to support you no matter what.

Bella, glad to hear you are still going strong. Not long now until WI and that fateful day will be one to be enjoyed. Eat, drink and be merry!

Melanie, what's this about chocolate torte? I've just had to put in my choice for the Christmas menu for the work party, and the desert choice I made was trio of chocolate torte. Does that sound scrummy or what. It was either that, Christmas pud, or a cheese board, which I would eat far too much of, and I (and everyone else) has decided that the torte sounds fab. I hope you enjoyed yours and the pizza too. I love pizza, but I can't get too carried away for now, because I've just eaten my dinner, (lamb and mint sauce, new potatoes, veggies and good old yorkshire pudding) and I feel very full to bursting. I'm trying not to go too mad today after last nights yummy meal, but I did save some points earlier in the week so I don't feel too guilty. Can you save points if you don't use them? We can save up to 4 unused points a day for a week maximum out of our daily allowance of 20 or whatever we get. As we don't get any flex points to use, then it's the only way, other than getting extra from exercise, that we get any extra points to use for special occasions.

Linda, hope you are enjoying your weekend too. The chinese sounds yummy as usual. Enjoy and make up for it tomorrow.

I'm off for now, got to mop up AJ's mint sauce! See ya later.

Hello everyone. Just got home from another meal that has me ready to pop. Family dinner to celebrate DH's birthday last week. I will have to have faith in the points this week, because I'm keeping it good on paper, but still feel like a :ink:. Probably tuna salad for dinner, if that much. It's strange that last week when I moved to 24 points I was hungry. Now, I feel like I'm pigging out!

Linda - I would gladly eat all the pizza you want! :D

Angela - Great idea! Eat chinese food to encourage drinking water! :lol: I will think of that the next time I want to splurge. But, I have a WW recipe that I am going to try for Ranch Chicken Stir Fry and Asian Green Beans. Maybe that will keep the cravings at bay. It must be a theme weekend. We had a missionary at church this weekend talking about China! As for the "confession," don't worry about it on here. We have a lot of things in common. But are also different. Due to my personal beliefs, I will never lie and say I agree with a choice that I don't agree with; but, I will never be mean or judgmental acting to someone for making a choice I don't agree with either. Gee, I hope that came out right. It's hard to express some things in writing and not offend, and that is certainly not my wish. If you promise not to be upset that I'm hetero-, I will return the favor. :; I hope you keep up the good work with WW to meet your goals for yourself. It's exciting to see new people on the board and get revived by people entering the program. I think it keeps things fresh for those of us who have been doing it for a while.

Dawny - Well, the torte was supposed to be a chocolate layer cake. However, it did not exactly look like a cake when I got it out of the pans - a little flat. So, I just changed the name and enjoyed. It was pretty tasty. Kept me away from the Red Velvet cake that others were partaking in! The "date" sounds great. We tried that last night. Potluck at church, rented a movie, everything was great - then the argument. I really wish that I could fastforward sometimes to 5 years from now when we have, hopefully, learned to communicate better. Oh, well. We will struggle through.

Well, I think I will take an afternoon nap now to get up the energy for the kids' club tonight and maybe a walk. I would like to suggest it as a romantic time with DH as Linda suggested, but with his current allergy problems, I don't think it would be very romantic.

Later, all.

:ink: :moo: :ink: :moo: :ink: :moo: That's me about now. I just got home from a Southern Living Party. Why do I do such things to myself? Anyone else here sabotage themselves? I could have politely declined the offer. I KNEW there would be awesome food there. I'm also going thru and emotionally upseting time and just knew it would be a set up. So here I am. All porked out. SO.... my plan... 1) no flex points, period for the rest of the week. I figure between the Chinese food and the Southern Living feast I've overdone it. 2) Can I eat less than my points for the rest of the week to make up for it? Work out more? Drink more water? Pray harder? UHHHHHGGGG. Why do I do this??? If I gain an OUNCE over an hour and a half stupid party I'll be so disappointed! Help me folks! What do I do now?? :?:

What do you do now? You stop beating yourself up, pick yourself up, and start over. Slip ups happen. Although I am not usually an emotional eater, when DH and I was fighting today, I really wanted to cram the rest of his b-day cake in my mouth. Luckily, I have learned by past mistakes that would not be the right decision.

Do you think you really ate all your points? Sit down with pen and paper and try to remember what you ate at the party and guestimate the point values. Maybe you didn't do as bad as you thought. If you did eat all the FPs (and then some), just try to stay on-point the rest of the week. You will probably surprise yourself at weigh-in. I would not suggest eating below your points, because I am told that will put your body into starvation mode and it will not want to lose what you have eaten.

One of the things I love about FPs is that it is designed knowing that we are not perfect. We all slip up from time to time. We are on a journey. I would guess that most people who are on a long journey will take detours and check out side roads along the way. There will be potholes, speed bumps, and hills to climb even on the main road. You didn't "blow it." You just got detoured.

Hope this helps! Now get a carrot, young lady!!!! :D

Thanks for the encouragement. I am a bit down today. I am fully on program, but my husband is, at this point, being less then supportive. He thinks I'm eating way to much to loose any weight. I just don't understand why he can't just support me and encourage me. AAAAHHHH Well he has now planted the seed in my head and I'm having problems believing this will work as well. I fully intend to stay on program and see, but am now more nervous then ever. I have noticed that my rings are loose and that isn't normal, so I do hope its a good sign!

Linda, I was a bit bloated after the Hamburger Helper, but just drank extra water. I am just glad that I never have to crave anything. That I can incorperate it in to my life. Oh what part of NH are you from? I grew up in Vermont.

Angela, I have no problem with you being a lesbian and do not think that will get you kicked off the boards! I can't wait till I'm at your weight. I haven't been there since I had my first daughter, lol (7 yrs ago!!!!!)

Well I have to run to the store so I'll chat later,

Good morning all, thought I'd check in and see what you are all up to - sleeping no doubt as its only 9.15am here and I think you are all around 5 hours or so behind. I wish I were still in bed. I seem to have had a couple of late nights, and AJ has woken me 10 minutes earlier than normal, and 10 minutes makes all the difference to what kind of mood I get up in. I'll live.

Angela, I truly believe in what melanie advised, just stick to your points, poss do without the flex points, and you should be fine. I always have to force myself to stick to points after a pig out. My natural instinct seems to be to eat a bit less for a day or two, and I know now from experience that it just doesn't make any difference. You may as well keep eating, and even if you lose a bit less than you would have done without the over indulging, then you should at least still lose, or at the very worst, stay the same. In my book, if you have had a really good night out, eaten a bit more than you would have planned to, then just remember what a good time you had, and put the food thing down to experience and move on to the next day with optimism. I like Melanie's idea of the roads and speed bumps etc, its a good analogy and its true. Keep going girl.

Bella, methinks you worry too much. Until you have overcome your first real WI, then it is hard to appreciate just how much stuff you can eat on this programme. When you have done countless diets in the past, and half starved yourself to death who knows how many times, its hard to understand that you are allowed to eat more than two lettuce leaves a day, and can still lose weight on it. Trust me. I love my food, (obviously, or I wouldn't be in this situation in the first place!), and if I had had to live on nothing for the past 9 months, I wouldn't have got past a week. I feel I eat as much now, or at least it feels like that, as I would have done before. I assume my portion sizes have naturally got smaller, and my food choices are healthier in order to stay within points, but I very rarely feel hungry. When your hubby says anything, just try to ignore him, put him off with 'well, lets wait and see shall we' , and you can show them all that you can have your cake and eat it! You must have lost some weight if your rings are feeling looser, I think you'll have lost loads. What day is WI? We'll be there in spirit with you.

Melanie, sorry you've been having some bother with DH. I guess it takes a while to learn to live with someone. I've been with mine in total 13 years, and its as bad now at times as it always was. In the nicest possible way of course. We just argue about different things now. In fact, I think we argue more now than we ever did, more to do with stress, tiredness and stuff though. You'll get through the worst of it, and he sounds so lovely anyway, that if you get fed up of him for a bit, we'll share him too!!
We'll sort him out for you. Make him see your point of view. Hopefully, by the time you read this you'll have kissed and made up anyway, so you will be fine. Glad you fought off the call of the cake, that's a good sign that maybe you weren't really upset as you thought you were. Or maybe the cake has dried up by now.

Oh well, I'm off, probably be back later to see how your monday is shaping up. Bye for now.

I was just trying to envision a "romantic" walk, Melanie, with an allergic husband - made me smile to myself so early in the am.... it's 5:00 am and I've been up since 4:30. Have a very busy day ahead with many weight loss challenges! It's my monthly quilt guild meeting - a meeting I cherish with about 250 women from all walks of life. We come together with a common bond. But, these people spread FOOD across two huge tables every month and these tables are about 8' long banquet tables. I think I will bring my own coffee and a ww 2 points bar and stay away from that area during the break?
At any rate, speaking of people from all walks of life, Angela, please don't feel unwelcome here. People are all different, and by me saying you won't be "single", it can mean any kind of partner. As my family has always said "whatever floats your boat". One thing I read, though, that I will share with you here.... (not meaning to hurt you at all but to HELP you) is that some people who are gay tend to compensate for their negative feelings about how the world accepts them by overeating. Also, in the back of their minds, they sometimes find that being "large" a way to keep the opposite sex at bay without having to address the gay thing. Just something to think about.
In fact, I'll share something with you. My own daughter has a couple of friends who are gay and I have had a rought time dealing with that as I think they have a totally different lifestyle. Her 15 year old friend is "dating" a lesbian woman (and I stress the word woman, as she is nearly 22 years old and has even served in the military and lived away from home and been in college, etc.). I have told my daughter she is not to be around them. However, my daughter is upset with me as she thinks it's becuase they are lesbian, yet that is not it at all. She fails to recognize that a 22 year old male or female who is an adult has no business (in my humble opinion) dating and having (forgive me for being explicit) a "sexual" relationship with a "child" who is 15. This adult is old enough to drink, legally marry and is more ready for a very adult relationship. This 15 year old is easily influenced, a bit "wild" and having troubles at home with alcaholic parents. Just an explosive situation waiting for trouble.
So, my daughter accuses me of being predjudiced against gays, but I am not and accept them as "people". What I don't like is the influences of a very older person being put upon a young girl. So, we battle this constantly.
At any rate, I have no problem with you being here. We share a common bond, no matter what.
Bella, don't worry so much. This change in your lifestyle takes awhile to just sink in. You are new to all of this, give yourself time. Heck, I am still not all there yet and I've been doing this a great deal longer than you.
If you need more flex points, go for a walk for 20 minutes and give yourself just ONE. Eating something filling like popcorn (my favorite) and drink extra water. You'll do just fine!
Well, time to get rolling and make school lunches and breakfasts.
Have a great day everyone.
Hope what I said isn't bothersome to anyone about my daughter's friend. Maybe you guys can help me address this better. My daughter is very unhappy with me. I do think it's weird when adults in their 20s want to spend time with kids....I keep trying to explain this to her, yet she doesn't "get it" and thinks I am the bad person here. So tough to bring up kids.
Linda

Hey all,

doing okay, had too much alcohol at the wedding I was at this weekend... oops, it was open bar;) Still I usually don't drink, but oh well, I wasn't too bad. I still ate too much, but could have done a lot worse so I'll get up, exercise and eat well. I am going back to points, but will mostly stick to eating core foods. I think that's the best way for me to go, since I was pretty much doing that anyway.

Princess Ang: hugs sweetie, we've all been there, no worries okay... Bascially I usually audit each indescretion and figure out how I could have done it better and just try to apply it to the next situation. Tomorrow night I have a uh party to go to (like a tupperware party where they don't sell tupperware;)) There will be a lot of us gals together, wine and junk food. I am driving so I won't be drinking, I will bring a bottle of diet coke and make a dish I can eat without a worry. That's my strategy.


Linda: I remember when I was in high school and this girl I knew who suddenly became a wild child was dating a 20 year old guy and I thought it was wrong, I still do. Yes I do think it's odd and chances are the 20-something is hanging out with a 15 year old, regardless on how mature they are. A 15 year old still has to grow up a lot. The fact is, a 22 year old can have a lot of influence on a younger person and perhaps explain it to your daughter that way, that they're only young once and it's best shared with people the same age, who understands what the other is going through. This has nothing to do with the sexuality of the friend either (I am very open on this stuff, one of my best friends is gay and so is my brother). Later on age matters less and less, but for now when someone is that age it's a huge biggie.

Anyway gotta run!

Ali

Good morning everyone (except Dawny – where it is afternoon). Mondays are not a good morning for me to exercise! I did not want to get out of bed, but did anyway. Urgh. Still waiting to be happy about it.

DH and I have made up. While I was slaughtering him in a card game, we had a very good talk about a lot of the issues we are dealing with. Mostly, we are calling it growing pains. He is struggling to establish himself as the husband, and I am struggling to give up responsibilities in the house for him to help deal with. It’s hard for me to go from being completely independent to sharing life in a package. So, he over compensates by being overbearing. Which makes me pull away more. Ah, the circle. Dawny, you are right. He is a keeper, even if I want to throw him back sometimes. :yes:

Bella – I dealt with the same hubby issues when I started WW again. He was certain it wouldn’t work because I have tried it before and INSISTED that I do what his mother and sister are doing instead. Each week, his protests got quieter and now, 35# later, he is finally admitting he was wrong. :smug: Just keep strong and tell him to give it a chance. What’s the worst that could happen in a couple of weeks!?! It may seem like a lot of food, but I bet you are making healthier choices than in the past and still not eating as much.

That reminds me. At Saturday’s potluck, I was spooning out my veggie casserole. The pastor was in like behind me and with surprise said, “You can eat that? With all that creamy sauce?” I informed him that it was 98% ff cream soups. Then at the table, I took a bite of my one sausage ball and told him that I bet I enjoy my one more than he would 5! Later that night while DH and I were watching a movie, I portioned out 1/8 c Goobers’ candy. I have no had this in months. I took my first bite and thought I would fall out of the chair! OMG it was sooooo good. I thought my tongue was going to slap my brains out!

Linda – When I think of raising teenagers (especially 15 yoa girls!), I think Wild Kingdom and Discovery channel. “Watch as the adolescent cub begins wondering from the den into the forbidden mall area. And in the distance, we see the hungry tiger watching the young one as she tries on the studded halter top. The tiger closes the distance and as he is ready to pounce, we see the mother bear pulling her young one away from the danger. The tiger (knowing better than to mess with a mamma) scurries for cover, looking for other prey. The adolescent resists the parental teachings but will live to test the boundaries on another day.” I think you are on the right track with the friend issue. I don’t have kids yet, but I work a lot with other peoples’ kids. The older I get, the more teenagers seem like little babies. In my opinion, a 22 year old in a relationship with a child, is usually a very insecure and immature person looking for someone they can impress. There is no way I would let my teenager regularly hang out with an unrelated 22 year old, even as friends. I just don’t think it is healthy. DD is probably just playing all the cards she has in her pocket to try to get you to bend. Isn’t parenting always grand? I admire you for sticking to your guns. I see to many parents letting the kids rule the roost and they just can’t do it. And, as for WW, I hope you made it through your meeting without much of a slip!

I did a practice WI last night with the official scale at church. (DH called me an addict) I had only lost .2#. But, I consider that normal, since the weekend is my higher point days and the weekdays are the lower days. Hopefully, the decrease in points today and tomorrow (and no more dt. sodas) will put the loss where I want it. Plus, I was wearing thin jeans last night. Who knows what that added! I still have about 20 FPs left, but maybe I counted Sat. lunch too little. Lowering the points scale is always a frustrating trial and error for me. I think I should have all the FPs, but I’m scared to do it (sorry for those who have heard this from me before). I will go with my gut this week and try to stay OP until WI.

Melanie: Ie. Linda's DD situation, I couldn't agree more about teh older person probably being insecure. I am sorry you and your hubby had a row:( but am glad you made up.

Cheers!

Ali

Had a HUGE fight with my girlfriend this morning, grrrr, she makes me SOOOOOOOO mad :devil: Thank God for work, otherwise I think I would have stayed and argued all day!

OK, about the daugther's friend dating the 22 year old. Doesn't matter, gay, straight, yellow, green, whatever, that's just WRONG! It would be wrong if a 22 y/o male was dating a 15 y/o female, but adolescents don't see that and you aren't gonna convince her. At 15, Mom's don't know ANYTHING :dizzy: !

I'm still bummed out about the binge yesterday, but I have taken the suggestion to write down what I think I ate, although at some point it became a blur and I was just shoveling it all in ... it will be a good exercise for me to write down what I ate and the feelings I was going through at the time... I think I told ya'll I'm a Clinical Social Worker, so I kinda know all about that stuff anyway, not that I ever apply it to myself :^:

Thanks for the warm welcome I've received here from everyone. I'm totally comfortable with my sexuality. Have not ever had a real struggle with it. My weight issues come from other places that I'm real aware of and that I've been able to deal with and that's why I really feel like I'm ready this time to tackle this problem and do the work it takes to get this mess off of me for good!

Whew, I already feel mo' bettah!! :cool:

Just called in for a quick confessional. I just 'stole' some of AJ's chips (fries to you).

I don't know why, they just looked so good while they were cooling down for him that I couldn't resist them. The worst bit is, I don't have the spare points for them today either. Oh well, Now they're in, they're in. Lets just hope they don't stop in for long!!!

Back later. (I did only have 3, does that still count?)

Hey guys, I don't have much time here.... but just want to say thanks for the support on this thing with my daughter. She is "pushing all my buttons" and I have had to really stand my ground. I really have been accused, by her, of being "gay prejudiced" and I really feel I am not, it's the older person thing. I so like the comparison to the wild animals on Discovery Channel thing, etc. as that is just SO true! If this were a 22 year old guy with a 15 y.o. girl, I would feel the same way, I know I would.
Interesting about the insecure and looking for someone to impress, I hadn't really thought about that. I kind of felt (but I know the people involved here) that this person was looking for someone to "prey" on, much like the wild kingdom thing. This 15 y.o. has two messed up alcoholic parents and seems to be looking for attention, love and recognition. She's dated guys and never was in a gay relationship before, and when she dated guys was always selecting the ones known to be on drugs, etc. To top it off, her parents didn't even know she was dating anyone and when another parent approached them to warn them about their daughter, they were given the "brush off". Sad situation. I think this older dating relationship is a way for this girl to claim independance from some messed up parents and she is testing the system. She claims that she is moving out the moment she turns 18 and finding an older "companion" (who also grew up in a messed up home environment as well and is very "needy") might be her way of placing herself in a relationship where she knows she can just leave home and have a place to go? I keep waiting to hear she's run away. No need for my daughter to hang out with any of these people, she's a good kid and has a very safe environment. Sad circumstance, no matter what.
Another parent actually was going to report this relationship to the police, but the problem is that no one has witness to anything "sexual" with actually is a felony. So, without evidence, nothing can be done. But, this older person is a Karate instructor and around kids all the time. I can't stand that she is working with kids all the time and thinks nothing of "dating" a young person who is also a "student". Pretty creepy, regardless of sexual persuasion.
Forgive my spelling here!
At any rate, as far as my morning is concerned! I had a NSV today, though my scale seemed to hop UP a few pounds this morning (always right before weigh in, right????) I went to my guild meeting and had veggies, fruit and a ww 2 points bar vs. the cakes, muffins, doughnuts and cookies that were there! I did it! This is an absolute first for me to attend a meething with a huge spread of food and be able to resisit it.
Wow!
So, even if I have a gain tomorrow, I am happy with this choice that I made.
I am hoping that my ever fluctuating scale will not indicate that I will gain this week.
If I have a gain, I am going back to flexpoints and giving up on CORE.
Linda

:rofl: Dawny - don't think 3 fries will hurt very much.

I just had to share tonight's dinner recipes. I know you ladies will be interested in low-sodium, super easy Chinese recipes! Not exactly take-out, but very yummy:

Ranch Chicken Stir Fry:
1TBSP veg oil
1/2 lb chicken breasts (cut into strips) NOTE: I used double and counted points
1 pkg Ranch Salad Dressing Mix
16 oz veg medley, thawed
2 TBSP water

heat oil. add chicken & mix in dressing mix. Cook till chicken is done. Add veggies & water. Stir-fry about 2 min. 4 servings, 1.5 pts.



Asian Green Beans (very close to my favorite in restaurant!)
1 1/2 lb Fresh green beans (snapped)
3 TBSP reduced sodium soy sauce
1 TBSP sesame oil (or any other oil)
1 tsp sugar
6 cloves garlic, minced

boil beans for 4-5 min. Combine next 3 ingred and set aside. Drain beans. spray wok or skillet. Cook garlic 20-30 seconds. Add beans and cook for 2 min. Add sauce & cook until desired tenderness. 6 servings, 1 pt. each.

Again, I found these on the internet somewhere and can't give credit to the original source. Just had to share it!

C-ya tomorrow!

Thanks for the recipes, Melanie!
Well, this morning I am calling "bite the bullet day".... I know I gained this week. So, due to changes in weather conditions, getting colder in New England, I am going to modify what I wear for weighing in days to a bit of warmer clothing! So, as I have a gain anyway, I will also have one due to a change in clothing. May as well get that part over with.
I am SO confused today. I was an "angel" this week as far as being on program. Like I said before, the Chinese food was my flexpoints that I was entitled to, maybe I miscalculated how much though, or is it just sodium or ME? My body is settling into this darn aging process and I will be 50 in February. But, I feel a bit defeated today, in a way, but also accepting at the same time.
I am going to my meeting and am going to have a chat with my leader and this may be "it" for the core plan, I think. I said that last week, but had a loss and figured I would give it one more week.
Not sure what to do, maybe my scale is so nuts that I won't have a gain? Maybe I will figure out something different to do in the upcoming week that will get me of this ______ plateau.
I'm going to post a new thread on the ww general site, by the way, called something like "plateau breaking ideas" to see if I get some suggestions from people. It will have nothing to do with our existing thread here, so will still be here doing what we do. But, if you see it, maybe you might find something interesting for yourselves, but some of you are not in this "place" that I am in right now.
Here I am a person who has been a Lifetime member, on again and off again with WW and for WEEKS the same 1 or 2 pounds keep getting gained and lost.
I need progress.
Linda, dismal today

Hey guys! A couple of new faces here, welcome to all!! :)
I'm doing ok, although I'm been outside home most of the time and I find it a bit hard to eat healthily, actually to eat at all. I feel thin though, and tomorrow is my WI, I hope I'll lose a little something. I wish you guys all the best regarding fights with husbands, girlfriends, daughters, I'm sure it will all be fine soon. I don't have anything else to share, I'm in a hurry actually. Take care all!! I miss you ! :)

I didn't do to well last night, not too badly but not that well either... I was really hungry (I am having a mini-TOM right now (I ain't due for another 2 weeks and it's lighter) and I have a cold.. On the points scale I was fine though, I had about 28 points (4 activity points earned) so I was okay.. Tonight is my gals night party where my friend will have someone come over and sell us uh... fun stuff hehehehehe;)

Linda: I am giving up total core as well... I will count points, mostly eat core foods (I did before anyway), but I like a little bit of lee-way for stuff like bread and what not. I can't weigh-in tonight either, oh well, c'est la vie.


Angela: I am so sorry about you having a row yesterday... I have been there with the food too. I find one thing that helps is to try and make a mental check list if you're in a situation where you know overeating will most likely happen and consciously say "I am eating a piece of cake" just recognizing what you eat while you're eating it can help (I have struggled with binge eating for a long time and have only started to control it again).

Natalie: Good luck at WI.

Dawny: 3 fries, you should be fine! Take care!

Melanie: those recipes look delish!

Cheers!

Ali

Ali and Natalie, good to hear from you guys!
Well.... just back from weigh in and I lost, but only .2
Now, I am confused.
I wore my heavier clothing, but took off my watch and belt for a change....
I must be crazy, but I think I am going to give this core thing one more week..... but no Chinese food this coming weekend.
Well, it's off to get some stuff done around here.
Linda

Hi everyone, a very quick (yes honest) visit tonight, as it's taken so long to read all the posts since yesterday.

Oh Linda, its a hard situation with Jamie, I don't envy you one bit. I won't offer any extra advice on this one as its probably 'doing your head in', but I offer my sympathies, I'm sure it will turn out for the best eventually. So you are sticking with core for one more week then? Congrats on the loss, you see, even if you think you can't possibly have lost anything then a little bit still comes off, well done, .2 is still .2 and in the right direction. I have a feeling that you will go back to flex points before long, but you have to do whats right for you at the moment. My friend that I see at my WW meetings is older than you, late 50's, and shes been going since about feb, and only lost 7 or 8 pounds in that time. She went last year, and then did very well, but is finding tough going this time. Maybe our bodies adjust somehow to a particular type of diet after a while, and to try them too often doesn't work. Who knows. I think that the choice of doing core of flex is probably a good one for you, as it will help your body feeling 'bored' with just one diet and its limitations.

nat, good to hear from you. Just keep going, girl, your doing great up to now, so don't let it all slip because things are a bit different at the mo.

Angela, sorry about the fighting, it's hard when you fall out with a loved one, but don't let it take over the eating. Its so easy to fall back on the food when you are a bit upset.

Ali, hi, and Melanie, glad you are all ok. I've got to go now, almost AJ's bedtime.

By the way, it ended up being more than 3 chips - more like 6 - but I think I can ignore for now, the scales were ok this morning.

gotta go. Bye.

Hey losers!

Just a quick note... stayed OP yesterday even though emotionally I was a train wreck. Feeling more in control emotionally today and 'we' are getting along better. I'm glad I lucked out finding ya'll! Not going to let ANYONE get in the way of MY success this time!

Ok, well I think my husband is now a believer! I got weighed in today and lost 5.2# ! ! ! I am SO happy. I am just amazed. Well this is a quick post, I have to go to school. I'll chat with you all later.

Just popped in quick, its quite early here. Bella, fantastic news, I knew you could do it. :cb: 5.2 is an amazing loss, even for a first week. That'll show that husband of yours! :cp:
Of course, the first couple of weeks alot of the loss is water, but if you hadn't been following the plan, then there's no way that that amount of weight would have come off at all. Well done.

Angela, glad you are feeling a little bit better now. :halffull:

My WI tonight, possible pound or so off today, we'll see. Back later girls.

Forgot to mention, Linda, finally got around to buying the treamill that we were on about a while ago. Its not a motorised one, magnetic, but it was only £40 on ebay, a new one, so it will be better than nothing for now. I decided that it could go in the garage, and I could be out of everyones way and get some much needed exercise in at last. Gotta go, see ya later.

Hey guys, just a quick note. Lost 1.1 pounds this week. Congrats for the great loss Bella!!!!

I'm in a terrible hurry, take care all!!! :)

:coffee: Good morning fellow losers!

Thanks, Dawny, for your sympathies. I must tell you I walk a very hard path with two teenagers in my house, at times. Yet, a parent is forever "in love" with their child, no matter what they do. Jamie will understand, in time, I hope why I have placed this restriction on her. I want to keep her from harm and making the wrong choices. Today's world can really be overwhelming and there are so many things out there that can put your child in harms way.
I swear, there were times when I wanted to move way out into the countryside and "home school" my kids to keep them from outside influences, but I soon realized that the "real world" would just overwhelm them when they became "of age" and ended up on their own. Best that these issues come up one at a time. Sometimes I feel like a warrior with a shield who is constantly stepping in front of my kids to keep them from harm. Yet my child wants the things I feel are harmful and doesn't "get" what I think is wrong with this situation. A very hard thing for us both.
Yet, yesterday was a good day for Jamie, she lost another 1.4 pounds. I was very happy for her. :cp: She is now down 9.6 pounds, and I promised to pay to get her nails done when she was down to 10 pounds, so she is really looking forward to that! Also, her 14th birthday is in a few weeks and she has chosen, rather than one big gift from us, to go on a shopping spree to the local mall. Having lost a few pounds makes her excited about buying and trying on clothes! I will take her and a friend to the mall for the day and they will surely tire me out! But, I will enjoy watching her spend her money. Usually the grandparents give her money too, so she will be "loaded"!
Dawny, also, there is a brand of oven roasted French fries here in the US now that 1/4 of the bag is only 2 points and they taste really good, so if you are craving "chips", I am wondering if you can get them in the UK as well? In the freezer section of the store where you might find frozen potato products, take a look for them. The brand name here is Alexia. Wonder if you guys get them, or even anywhere else in the US? They have various flavorings added to them, like garlic and parmesan, rosemary, etc. With a family of 4, I bake these on a cookie sheet and divide them into 4 portions which are almost equal in volume to McDonalds small fries. We have ketchup with them and I think they are great! If I make burgers for the family, I have mine without the roll and have these on the side. I am quite happy with this choice! :chef: Yummy!
Angela, glad you stayed on track even if you were not the best, emotionally. We (me included) have to learn to not let those things get in the way. On days when you are feeling really high emotion, it's time to do other things. Take a walk, drink a big glass of water, take a hot bath, light candles, play soft music, etc. The bath sounds good to me right now and I'm truly not on an emotional overload right now, just really sore from yesterday's work out.
Bella, ah the first week big loss! Good for you! Don't expect losses that high the entire time, but it's always gratifying to see a big loss the first week when you really need that assurance that you are doing the right thing.
I just have a HUGE breakfast, in fact, no one in their right mind would believe I was on ww if they saw it. It was a bit larger than normal for me, but I seemed to need it. It was 7 points, but so healthy. I will do at least 2 points of exercise today, maybe more as I am "thinking" of gardening some. So, I'll be ok.
By the way, this seven point breakfast was CORE, but using one flexpoint. I'm back journaling again. I'm trying to fit the CORE foods into the flex plan, if that makes sense. Also, the journal makes me so much more aware of portion control.
Dawny, your remark about your friend at ww who is losing slowly hit home for me. When one is over 40, the metabolism really slows and losing weight is amazingly hard. I have my days when I feel so defeated and other days when I have a "can do" attitude. Luckily, I have you guys and my ww meetings! These things boost me up and keep me motivated. :wave:

If any of you get a chance, take a look at my plateau busting post and the one and only answer I got:
http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/showthread.php?p=677375#post677375

I was totally "bowled over" by this one response and really have taken it to heart. I think the long thing this one person wrote in response to my question for very appropriate for me. But, truly, not only me, but I think some of you guys might benefit as well. Even the newcomers! Weight does come off so easily in the beginning, but when people get "lost" is after the initial "honeymoon" period and the hard stuff comes in to play. I am definately in this for the long run, though.

Natalie, great loss, I'm so proud of you! Way to go!

Dawny, just some friendly advice..... I have a truly lovely bedroom "suite" in my home and the appearance of it could be "ruined" by the ugly treadmill sitting in there all the time. It's fairly big, black and nasty looking. However, it's right where I SEE IT all the time. It's also placed so I can watch TV while on it. You might want to give some thought to not placing your new one in the garage, but having it visible and also having it where you could watch TV?
I have the remotes beside me and generally watch CNN news or something like that while on the treadmill, occasionally I will watch home decorating shows (which I love). But, the TV really helps me from being bored. Before I could watch tv when on the treadmill, I was not using it as much, as I ws so easily bored. Considering all the nasty things going on in today's world, the half hour or so I spend on the treadmill is a good thing as I keep up on world events during that time. I'm being educated while I am getting my butt in gear!
Also, last night's ww meeting was about exercise, but trying to increase activity levels and having FUN while doing it! Jamie asked me to buy her a jump rope and a hula hoop today! :lol:
Linda

HI, another 'quick' visit from me today. Not been to WI yet, but been quite good. Took AJ for lunch in town, and found a quite healthy chicken salad sandwich, with no high fat stuff in it. That makes a real change. Some places just don't think about catering for anyone wanted anything remotely healthy.

Linda, just wanted to let you know I checked out your other thread last night and promptly printed out all the advice from the other post on there. There's some useful stuff on there and worth saving. We are all likely to hit the dreaded plateau at some stage, and I'm surely at that stage now for one reason or another, so any advice is gratefully received. Good idea of yours. I don't think of starting other threads when I want to ask something, I forget, I tend to just pick your brains instead!
I don't think I will have the room in my bedroom (or anywhere indoors for that matter) for the treadmill, although when we actually get the thing, hopefully at the weekend, we will be able to tell better. Our garage is newly built and at the moment is not too jammed with junk so it may be possible to put one of the 'spare' tvs in there actually, or at the very least, some loud music to annoy the neighbours. The garage is next to our driveway(obviously) and also the garden and decking at the side, where AJ likes to play, so I would be able to keep my eye on him, at the same time as him getting some fresh air and me getting fitter. We'll just have to see how things turn out over the next few days.
Great news about Jamie's loss this week. I was only thinking about her this morning and wondering how she was doing on the programme at the moment. Is she still counting points, or sort of doing core like you? Did you ever sort out what to send her for lunch at school? I'm so glad for her that she is sticking with WW, I know it was a bit touch and go at the beginning, but it seems she has settled into it just fine. She's learning about healthy eating at a young age, and hopefully this will stick with her for life. The 'chips' by the way, are a name I don't know. We do get WW branded ones, that are 2 points for 100g, so they could be a similar quantity, quite tasty too. I haven't seen any flavoured with herbs or anything, although they are probably out there. I will keep my eyes peeled with interest, thanks for that one.

I do apologise to you all for my lack of passing on anything that resembles a recipe. As I have mentioned before, my cooking skills are not good, and I don't think you would appreciate it if I made you ill, so I will happily steal all of your ideas, adapt them to our available ingredients the best way I know how, and not confuse you all with my 'dodgy' culinary capabilities.

Righty ho, I feel peckish now, so I'm off for a nice large glass of water - again. Back later.

WAY TO GO ON THE LOSSES THIS WEEK (so far) Y'all Rock!!! I'm sooo happy for those pounds that are meellllllltttttinnnngggg away!! Stick to it ladies!! Still fightin over here : ) but determined NOT to eat my way thru it! Got to get to work! Make it a great day everyone!

Linda - I wonder what DH would think if he came downstairs and I was swishing a hoola hoop! :rofl: But, it is a great idea, if that will be fun for her. That's why I got new videos. I like aerobics and the new videos are very upbeat with fun music. I also like to walk while listening to my "Pure Funk" compelation cassette with songs like "Brick House" "Super Freak" "Kung Fu Fighting". I know I look a little silly bopping along to these songs (once got caught by the Family Court Judge who drove by), but if anyone knows me, it shouldn't surprise them that I would act goofy in public. My walking route takes me around our town hall. I actually did the "Rocky run" up the Courthouse stairs. tee-hee. :yes: I'm a nut.

I skimmed over the response you got to the Plateau question. Kelly S does often have great info. I was thinking last night that I need to read over it again. I really don't think that I will do very well at WI tonight. I still have FPs left, and I have been exercising, but for some reason the scale hasn't been moving in the right direction at home. A friend threatened to take my scale, but I told her I would just climb into one of those hanging baskets at the grocery. Maybe some fat is waiting to fall off today. :^: I hope I am pleasantly surprised like you were with your .2 loss - even with warmer clothing on! Luckily, I think our 80 degree weather will hold out a bit longer for us.

:cp: Weigh to go - Bella & Natalie on the WI. (sorry, couldn't resist the pun!) :halffull: It is fun to see those big losses!

Angela - hope things are still going well! DH and I made up Sunday night and the past 2 days have been weird. We have gotten along. He is really making efforts. I am afraid to expect it to continue, though. But, I will not let our relationship affect my eating. If I eat ice cream, it will be because I want it and have the points. Not because his socks are on the floor! Again!

Well, I did something today that I never thought I would do. I got up at 6 a.m. by my own free will. Did you know 6:00 happens twice a day? Shocker to me. :dunno: But, my new video makes me sweat a lot more, so I had to have time to wash my hair before work too (usually done at night b/c it is long). Trust me. Getting up that early definately shows I'm either dedicated or losing my mind. :twirly: But after the workout and capp., I kinda look like this right now: :hyper: Lucky co-workers.

Later, all!

Hi all,

Went to a fun all-girl party last night, we had a blast I had too much food, but a managable amount. I have a binge eating problem, but even last night was able to keep it in check.... I know though, even a few refined carbs makes me crave and crave and crave, but I was okay, went over my points, but can face myself today without a lot of guilt. Next time I'll eat before hand (no time)

Linda:Yeah, I am doing the warmer clothes next week, thus this week I am being completely OP (I am back to flex mostly eating Core foods, just easier for me when I feel like having sushi for lunch).

Melanie: Have you taken your measurements? that's also another indicator of WL.. I hate plateaus, that is how my weight loss has been this time around (then agian I am not that far from goal), when I was bigger it just melted (I was 23, apparently the metabolism starts slowing mid-20s)

Princess Angela: I didn't WI this week and I am worried, but next week os a new week! How have you been?

Dawny: That treadmill is a really good deal... I am thinking about heading across the ocean next summer now (I have an uncle who has a terminal illness so I'd like to see him).

Nat: yah!! on the loss!

Cheers!

Ali:)

YAY Bella and Angela (by the way, Angela's RULE ;)) Dawny, good luck! Let us know how you did. My weigh in is tomorrow!

Hello everyone and all Angelas! Just checking in. As I posted, I have been worried about this week's WI. All weekend, I felt like a :ink: and the home scale was less than inspiring. But, WI was less 2.2#! Yippee! It feels so good to see the program working! And I can even feel like a :ink:! Gotta love it!

Well, I'm off for some LF ice cream!

Hope everyone else is having a good night too!

Welcome to a new Angie!
Made it through yesterday and I had what are referred to as "the hungry horrors"! I had an extra serving of sf, ff, choc. pudding last night and just counted the flexpoints.... had to do something to fill me up or I knew I'd never get to sleep feeling that hungry feeling. Do you all ever feel that way?
Dawny, Jamie has settled on a few things for school lunches, but we are still not 100% happy with those choices. She's now getting ham with whole grain mustard on lite bread, 4 points. Or a Lenders bagel (3 points) with lite cream cheese spread on it, eaten like a sandwhich, also 4 points. Oreo or Mr. Chips "crisps" in the 2 point serving bags and either a salad with lite dressing or a bag of cut up veggies like carrots, cherry tomatoes, cucumber and pepper. I give her bottled water as well to take instead of the higher point "juice boxes".
Her choices are pretty "boring" to me and I would certainly want more variety if I were her, but this is what she wants right now.
She is doing points, while I am doing Core right now. I think it would be next to impossible for me to keep her on Core while going to school. Though, she is eating more Core foods becuase I am, at home, while on points.
This week, I am doing both plans together, meaning I am journalling as well as doing Core foods. I think I need the portion control that journalling makes me so aware of.
Gotta get rolling, have a busy day, but Melanie, that was an excellent weight in!!!!
Ah yes, Jamie was hula hooping in the living room last night while watching tv! Hey, whatever works! She seems to be enjoying it and I must say that she has turned out to be amazingly good at it, while I couldn't keep the darn thing up around me to save my life!
May today be a safe day and a happy day for all!
Linda

Way to go Melanie!!! :cp: Excellent WI! I personally find that the weeks I feel like a :ink: and that I've not lost any weight, are the weeks I usually have the biggest losses. Weird, isn't it?
I weighed myself again this morning (I hope it doesn't turn out an obsession) and it seems I've lost another pound, but I'm not making it official yet. I just felt a little more confident, but I weigh myself every Wednesday, so I'm not writing it down as a loss.
I hope everyone is doing well on the program. Someone pmed me about the results from the challenge, I've posted them in the "August-September mini challenge" thread, in case anyone else wondered. I'll do my best to be extra-good this week, I really want an impressive loss next week. My next goal is Christmas, I hope I can lose as much as possible until then.

Linda- great idea about Jamie to get her nails done. I bet she's looking forward to it! I feel like we've come to consider food as the only worty reward anyone can have, and it really is wrong. Doing something that'll make us feel good and pretty is way better. I got my eyebrows shaped and trimmed professionally recently, and it felt fab! I really liked having them done and it really changed my face. So, next treat is a french manicure, which I love. So, instead of ice cream, a manicure is better! :)


Take care guys, hope you have a good day!!! :)

Hello. I didn't have time to chat last night, but I had to click on to share my acheivements with you gals. Thanks for all your encouragements.

For some reason, I just feel so motivated lately. I think it has something to do with getting my exercise in of the mornings. It starts my day off right and helps remind me to be good with my eating that day. I also caught myself bouncing yesterday while I talked to my boss. :hyper: hee-hee. Just couldn’t be still.

Linda – You’re right. Jamie’s menu does sound a bit dull. I love variety! But, if that’s what she wants, she should be fine. My co-worker’s son will only eat chicken nuggets and will eat them for every meal, if possible. I would just have a list of alternatives ready for when she decides she needs a change. I think it’s great that you are combining Flex & Core in your house. I believe that is the way Flex should be. Yes, we could eat 24 points of Cheetos a day, but it’s not very healthy. We need to include core foods into our meals.

Natalie – You are right. Usually, when I think I’ve done bad, I did good. I think maybe it has something to do with eating more FPs (which I hear many people eat all of them and lose). One night I purposefully used more olive oil when preparing dinner than the recipe called for just because I needed to use a couple more points and I was concerned I’m not getting my 30% fat in for the day. I really wish I could find where someone says xx# of grams. I’m not good with percentages. Oh, well. It is great to see the scale move before WI, but I’m learning not to focus on it. Just focus on making the right decisions and let the scale take care of itself. On Wednesdays we will meet.

Speaking of Wednesday WIs, Dawny???? How’d ya do?

C-ya later!

Hi all, well WI was fab for a change. 2 whole pounds off (no 0.2's over here girls, thank goodness) so I was 'chuffed' to bits. That leaves one more pound to get my mini goal of 42 pounds, which means another 'silver 7' which we get awarded at meetings for every 7 pounds lost. Then I will only have 13.5 pounds left to go to goal. I am still enjoying every minute of the programme I have to say, and that really is saying something after nearly 10 months solid at it. I even walked to the meeting and back last night, and the hill to come back up home is BIG, although it was getting dark on the way home, and I had to come through the underpass which was a bit scary, probably won't be safe to do for much longer.

Melanie, a great week for you too, and Nat sounds as if your week is going just fine as well. Talking about the amount of fat thing Melanie, which I wasn't but you was, I read the other day, I think in that long piece in Linda's other thread, that you should have about 3 points worth of fat per day. I don't know how that would work in grams, but it doesn't sound too bad to me. Although with the amount of cheese I eat then I probably would get to that figure fairly easily - cheese is more of a problem for me than chocolate. Just lurrrrve the stuff.

Linda Hi, glad Jamie's settled with her lunches for the time being. She might not even get fed up with it, at least not for a long time, if it's stuff she likes enough, but I agree that you should perhaps have contingency plans should she decide one morning at 6am that she really should have something different today.

Angie, welcome. Hope you enjoy WW as much as us. Call on us for support when you need us.

Anyway, gotta fly for now. Back tomorrow night after work. See ya later.

:cheer: :cheer: Way to go Dawny! I know that was a big loss for you and you should be "chuffed." Enjoy!

That's where my confusion lies with the 2-3 pts for fats. How much is counted for cheese, beef, etc.? Surely that isn't 2 pts of pure fat!! I'll just try to keep a healthy balance and add some when I feel I need it, like the other night when I used extra oil. Used PAM for my eggs this morning, but added cheese.

Well, live and learn (hopefully).

Later!

Well, I certainly have worked hard for today, at least, in terms of eating the right things, etc. I even did some digging in the garden in addition to walking on my treadmill and doing my body sculpting tape.
Natalie, you are so right about non-food rewards. Although, when I get to my 10% goal with WW, I intend to have a special dessert :devil: that I have wanted to have and enjoy every single bit. So, I am not "over" the desire to reward myself with food. However, this is not an every day or every week reward, it's a huge reward for me!
I once knew a WW lady who would reward herself with a Snickers bar every week if she had a loss, and not have one if she didn't lose. It was her motivation and I guess it worked for her, as she kept going and continued to lose. I, however, would probably lose control by doing that!
I am hoping that I finally reach that 10% goal soon, though. I have to lose about 4 more pounds. I look forward to this dessert so much!
I did have a goal to buy a new dress and to do so if I lost 10 pounds, and I never did give myself that reward. I was "supposed" to have lost 10 pounds by my wedding anniversary, and didn't lose enough by that date, so the incentive to buy a nice dress for that occasion was over with. I really do "owe" myself the dress, though, I think?
Maybe I'll do both that dessert and the dress when I get to 10%, a very big deal! My ultimate goal of 136 will come as well, and after that I don't think it will be food. I think it will be a new sewing machine for me! :cool:
Linda

PS, forgive the changes in my Avitar. I am on a few other threads and a few newcomers have come in with the same one as me. I wanted to have something different! I keep changing and it seems that I can't find anything original!
I tried uploading a file from my own computer but the file was too large.
Linda

Well last night I was a bit bad, lol (or least I felt that way) hubby brought home fried chicken and I was proud, I only ate one piece and had about 2/3cp and a roll with butter. BUT it put me 8 points over my daily allowance. Now being the start of my week, I used some of my extra points. I was just wondering if anyone else feels like they cheated when they use the extra points. I do. I felt horrible that I could have eaten a much larger meal with half the points. But I did it and now it's over, lol (now i doubled my water intake last night so that should help, lol)

What is everyone elses take???

TTFN

Bella, I feel like I am cheating if I use too many flexpoints at the beginning of my ww week. I try saving a large amount of them for weekends. I get weighed on Tuesdays and if I have at least 20 left by Friday, I'm happy with that as I know I can eat out and maybe have a soft serve small ice cream cone for 5 points, my "treat".
If I end up at a party or event earlier in my ww wee, then I am in trouble.
I have been trying all day to boost my activities so that I see results at the scale. We'll see how that works out next week!
I ended up using 3 unplanned flex points today already as someone brough Doughnut Munchkins (doughnut holes) to my Thurday quilt group. They were intoxicating and in the end I indulged. I've been so good for so long, they were such a treat for me.
But, I don't consider this a failure, I consider this "life" and working the program. If your husband went to a chain type of place for the fried chicken, like Kentuky Fried, I would look them up (either in the food companion or on line) and figure out what the best choices are to eat at that place, if you know he will "surprise" you frequently with food from there. You can let him know ahead that it's "ok" once in awhile, and stress that once in awhile thing, to bring this stuff home, as you enjoy it too, but ask him if he would please bring home the items you look up that are lowest in points.
I am in trouble once in awhile myself with this kind of thing on a very busy day....
Linda

Hi Bella!! :wave:

You can always ease some of that 'guilt' by earning some AP! :)

I didn't use nearly half of my bonus points last week, so as far as that goes I'm ok with the fact that I used them, just feel bad that I used them on the same day. At wi i still had 22 bonus points left, lol. AND I ended up having 6 pts left on sat and 1pt left on Sun. Weekends are so busy for me that I forget to eat, lol.

But today was right on and I got my oven fixed so I got a whole bunch of cake mixes and am going to do a bunch of cooking this weekend, lol.

Thanks for the advice. I guess I just have to get used to this whole thing. If I had been on anyother plan, last night would have been an end day for me! I'm just very proud of myself!

Thanks for all your advice, I really do feel I have found something that is working GREAT for me and something that is do-able for the rest of my life!

Thanks again

Angie, when you say AP, do you mean exercise points?
Well, it's finally Friday and I am very happy that it is. I have made it through this week quite well with staying on program, but STILL that darn scale isn't moving.
Wonder what I have to do to make it go down?
Linda in NH

Good Morning Everyone!! :coffee:

Well, my GF just broke up with me. I have mixed emotions . I'm a little sad :cry: . Mostly at this very moment I'm feeling relieved :cheer: . I'm not going to let this get in the way of my program. The stress :stress: of the past few weeks has really made this WW thing difficult!! It's been hard for me to address each of you individually and I really want to do better at that. I will work harder on that from now on. Especially since it's all gonna be about ME :queen:

My now ex-GF is a wonderful person. She is struggling with a decision to join a monastery. Tough spiritual process she is going through. She can't focus on that and me too... can't blame her for wanting to have a a space to do her own work. I wish her the best. Just needed to put that out there in the world...

I am going to WI tomorrow (or maybe today, just to shake things up a bit). Not sure if I will gain, lose or stay the same. At this point, all that matters is that I have retained my sanity. :crazy: If I have gained, I will NOT beat myself up :rollpin: I will not :ink: out. I will get back to basics :tread: , and get focused on :queen: ! If I lose, I will graciously thank God!! :thanks:

That's my pep talk to myself for today, thanks for sharing it with me.

Make it a great day everyone!

Okay. I know I’m odd, but here’s another reason. I really don’t feel guilty about using FPs. Nope. No guilt here. That’s what they are there for. Instead of doing point ranges like the last program (Winning Points, I think), they took the 5 points in the range and made them FPs. Especially when starting a point range, I try to eat as many of them as possible. That way, I have something to work down to and let my body adjust. And, I have estimated the points into calories (approx 50 cal = 1 pt), so I am currently, with FPs, eating an average of 1500 cal. That’s about right for me. W/out FPs, I would be eating 1200, too few for me. So, I will happily use them. My only problem is that I also want to save them for the weekends, but sometimes end up eating healthier than expected and then have several left over on Monday. Don’t want to use them right before WI, so sometimes Wednesday is my big eating night!

Linda – How to get the scale to go down? Maybe toss it out a really high window? No? But, gee, wouldn’t that feel good? I just don’t know. Sometimes it takes a few weeks for a good loss to show. Maybe tracking your points for Core will help. If this week isn’t a loss, maybe you should go over your journal with your leader. They might can detect if you need more dairy or fats. Maybe change up your exercise routine.

Bella – Yum. Fried Chicken. That is one of the good parts of WW. You don’t “blow it” if you have fried chicken. Just as long as it isn’t 4 pieces! Husbands can be slow to come around. It’s hard to explain that, yes, bringing home dinner is thoughtful. Greasy fried food – not as thoughtful. DH decided to cook dinner for me right before WI one week and then got upset because I didn’t want to eat before I went!

Well, I have everything ready to make a nice healthy soup tonight. The trouble is, now I don’t want soup. I want tacos from Taco Bell!! But, DH doesn’t like eating there. I think I will have to double check what his plans are…

Angela – we posted at the same time, so I just saw you message. SOOO sorry about the break up. I know that even when it’s for the best it is still like someone has their foot in your stomach. But, you have an awesome attitude about it! Don’t let this interfere with improving your health and being the best you that you can. And, if some comfort food is necessary – I highly recommend Edy’s Grand Light or a Hawaiian Pizza w/ no extra cheese. Good luck with the WI!

Melanie, have I got the recipe for you:

Taco Soup
14.5 ounces canned diced tomatoes
14.5 ounces canned diced tomatoes with chilis
14.5 ounces canned Mexican corn with chilis
2 cups cooked mixed beans
1 large onion, chopped
1 package taco seasoning mix
1 package ranch salad dressing mix (dry)

Saute onion with vegetable oil cooking spray. When softened, combine all other ingredients and cook until heated through.

Makes 7 cups. Serving size is 1 cup. 1 Point per serving.

Someone made this for me and I was amazed that it is a WW soup, very tasty and satisfying.... if you count points for a few baked tortilla chips to dip or microwave a few with ff cheese on top and then dip or eat on the side - you will be amazed!
Angelia, sorry about the break up as well. I guess you might have seen this coming, considering that you were talking about a fight earlier this week?
Dawny, are you ok, nothing from you for awhile? Missing you girl!
Linda

Linda - thanks for the recipe. It sounds great. I love soups when the weather gets chillier! Ooo, and chili too! I made the apple/pudding mix you suggested last night. I really liked it. Very good change to regular old pudding!

You're right. I've missed Dawny too. She hasn't been rambling for a while. What are you up to??? Don't you know we are your first priority!?!?! :D Hope things are going well.

Hey chickies,

I am doing well. I had an interview yesterday for a part-time job and she seemed to like me so that's good. My work is having severe labour issues and it looks like we might be on strike for at least a month which is a huge financial loss especially before Christmas.

Angela: I am so sorry about the break up, even if it's for the best, I know it can still be hard. Take care of yourself this weekend, maybe treat yourself to a pedicure or a massage or the Star Wars trilogy DVD set (Don't mind me, I am a Star Wars freak;) ).

Hope everyone is well!! I need to weigh in early on Tuesday... I have been eating okay, but seem to be at a plateau.

Take Care!

Ali:)

Hi girlies, What do you mean, Linda and Melanie, I'm here, never went anywhere! I only posted last night, I think that now there are so many posts to plough through that it seems like longer. I'm not abandoning anyone, although DH says he and AJ are first priority!hahaha.

I'm having a thin day today. About time. I've been wearing my pedometer for a few days and building up those steps. I even walked AJ to nursery this morning, even though I had work, so I had to walk up the big hill again, to get home to collect the car, but it was worth it. The sun was shining, the air was crisp and my fingers were cold, but I enjoyed it.

Angela, sorry about GF, one of those things we have to learn to live with, don't forget we're here if you need us, and if you feel too down and feel the need to munch you know where to find us, even pm us if you need to.

Bella, I love southern chicken too. I think we're all similar on that one. The difference is that ours is probably nowhere near as good as yours! I also feel guilty if I eat more that usual, we don't have any flex points to use, but if I've eaten more than usual in a day, not even gone over points, usually if I've done the snacking and grazing thing, then I feel awful, and can't imagine that I will lose any weight ever again. But it doesn't make any difference. The WW people have obviously taken all these things into account because we will still losing weight no matter what.

Ali, hi, I'm sure WI will be fine. Nice to know you might make it over here next year, even if it is to visit sick relatives. What part of the country would you be in?

Do you know, I've just had to read so many posts I can't even remember what some of them said now, so I'll have to go back and re-do them. Hope I haven't missed out anything important. Oh Linda, ditch the scales. I'm sure it would save a lot of stress!
Melanie, enjoy the soup with the tacos. I do wish I could cook.

Hope everyone has a good weekend, I WILL be back tomorrow.

OMG The cake made with pumpkin is SO good. I put them in cupcake containers so that I would have the serving size already done. It was great. My kids love them and I can't wait till later when my hubby tries them! MMMMMM

Welll... I went to WW today.. changed my day because my now ex-gf and I were going together on Saturday mornings... so today as part of my new 'life' I decided to go to a new meeting. Got on the scale and GAINED 2.6#'s. The lady was soo sweet. She said, 'had a little gain this week,' I said 'yeah, been a rough one,' she said 'wanna talk about it?' and was just genuinely concerned. The leader of my NEW group is soo funny and enthusiastic. I just love her. The other one was boring! So, while I guess I could be upset that gained 2.6, I actually lost about 380# (how much my ex-gf weighs), so that's the up side :lol3:

My confession - and don't anybody fuss! I didn't write a thing down last week. I know, I know, I know, I know... don't even fuss me!!!!!! I'm writing everything down and you all may even have the pleasure of reading it all ;)

I went to the grocery store and discovered pita bread, meringue cookies :dance: gosh those are yummy and like what 2 points for 4 of them? I need easy recipes and cheap (points wise) stuff to eat. I'm basically a work-a-holic who is now a microwave queen. If I can drive thru or pop it in the micro-wave it's a winner for me.

Alright, gonna go do something productive. OK, i'm gonna go take a nap :nose:

Ali - Good luck on the job! I'm sure you are working in a lot of stress and would like something new!

Dawny - I just meant that we are used to your long chats. You've been very busy lately. Just popping in for a few minutes. But, it's always good to hear from you! Good work on the walking!

Bella - Good luck with the cooking this weekend. Beware of the BLT's (bites, licks and tastes!)

Angela - Again, good attitude! Time to start fresh. I'm glad you found a group that you like better. As for the food, I will try to PM you some quick recipes next week. Most are on my computer at work. But, I have found that I really like Michella's (sp?) Lean Gourmet. They are under $2 here and have points on the box now! I had the cheese lassange today with leftover veggies and it was very filling! Also, for breakfast I have started keeping chopped onions, green peppers and tomato in the fridge to toss in a pan with a container of egg beaters. Pop some toast in the toaster and I have a 3 pt breakfast in 5 minutes. Or, several cereal bars (Cocoa Krispies, Special K) are only 2 points and easy to grab. Sometimes, I will have a reduced fat poptart and a banana at my desk. I have also found that go-gurt is very handy for the office. Make a box of couscous and add chopped veggies (surprise, cucumber is very good with this) for a quick meal. Hope these ideas help!

Well, I am a very happy girl. I discovered I had 13 pts left for dinner, so I went to Wendy's and had a burger, fries, salad, and small frosty for only 16 points (using 3 FPs). It was a real treat. I didn't cook and it was my first junk food meal in months! Not to be a habit, but definately enjoyed!

DH wants to play cards now. I'll check in later!

Melanie, I have LOTS of tasters so I do not need to do that. My daughter was a very happy camper when she was allowed to lick the batter (no eggs) I have never let her do that before, lol.

I then made pizza using Boboli(sp?) crust and I was able to eat 1/4 of the pizza (thick crust) for 8 points. Since the crust was thick and I added a bunch of onions, peppers, mushrooms, and chicken, and cheese(all counted in the points) it was SUPER filling. I was amazed. I saved the rest (i'm proud of my will power not to eat another slice) and with my desert I only used 1 fp. I am amazed at how I am able to make the food that is better and it happens to taste better as well, lol

*not loving the program much am I , lol*

Angela, I'm sure you will do better next week, and I'm very glad you are happy with your new meeting leader. Ours is a ball of energy, lol.


Dawn, good job on your walk, I want to start getting out there and walking, but to find the time is very hard. I am also going to wait to start a routine till this week when I am allowed to use the points. I just do not want to start to much at once and loose the will. SO I'll start with the food, then work in the workout.

Well that's all for me, I'm on my way to bed. You ladies have a great day tomorrow if I'm unable to get on.

TTYF

Thought I'd pop in early this morning and see what's happened overnight - a good few posts to read again!

OOh, Melanie, a junk food meal? That's not like you! I do hope you enjoyed it as much as I would have done! I like the cous cous idea for lunch, I love cous cous, so I may just have a go at that one - not too much cooking involved in that one is there?

Angela, glad you found a new meeting, It may well make all the difference, a good leader really can help you along, and if you get on with her, its worth contacting her during the week if you are struggling, a quick word halfway through the week can be just enough to keep you going till the end of the week.

Bella, I just love your enthusiasm, you've definitely got what it takes to crack this thing this time. As for the walking/exercise thing, I've been doing WW since Jan and only just really started doing any exercise, I couldn't really get motivated to do any, or to find the time until now. I think that like getting in the right frame of mind to diet properly, then you also have to be like minded to get into exercise, with a will to stick to it. (if that makes sense!) When the urge kicks in, and sooner or later it will, I wouldn't force yourself to do it until you are ready, the weight will still come off!
I have lost 41 pounds so far, and its only the past couple of weeks really since being ill that I have really done anything, and it seems to be shifting my 'plateau' (about time)

I got on the scales this morning again actually, nothing new there then, and it does look as if I may have met or even exceeded slightly my mini goal of 42 pounds. It would put me on 139-139.5, so I feel in quite a good mood this morning. Of course, it is the weekend, so who knows how much I'll eat. We'll see next WI.

OH, gotta go , AJ calling me from the bathroom, needs assistance!!!

Hey girls!!! :wave:
Lot's of new posts to read through, that's great! I hope everyone is doing fine. :strong:

Angela- I'm really sorry about the break-up. Good for you to have a positive attitude though, and I assure you that bingeing won't help you feel much better. Oh, and good job on changing meetings, I'm glad you're so enthusiastic about your new leader! :)

Bella- I was thinking about exercise too, cos I don't do any. Except from the odd walking now and then. I went to Mc Donald's yesterday and found that they have an offer. If you buy a salad and a bottle of mineral water they give you a pedometer, the little device that counts your steps. So, I'm tempted to buy it in order to get a bit encouraged to do some walking. Does anyone else have something like it?

Melanie- You must have loved the junk food dinner! Sounds delicious and I guess it's even more delicious if you haven't had any junk food for a while! :burger:

Dawny- I'm glad to hear that the plateau is possibly over. Being sick certainly doesn't put me in the mood to lose weight and eat healthily, so I can understand that you maintained for a couple of weeks. I hope you next WI goes fine, let us know immediately!! :goodscale


Ali- Good luck on the job!!! Hope everything goes well! :)

Linda- How's everything? :)

I can't wait to weigh myself on Wednesday, cos I really want to get back on the wagon. I'm not eating very healthily at the moment, although I'm within points and some days even lower, I'm not eating well. Anyway, I'm having a great time, so I'll stress about WW next week! Take good care girls!!! :)

Good morning, or afternoon depending on where you live!
Glad you think that recipe sounds good, Melanie, it literally takes like "liquid tacos" to me, very yummy!
Ali, I am the queen of plateaus right now. I'm desperate to see that scale take a dive! Hope you get that job as well. Can't imagine being out of work with no pay around the holidays, yikes!
Dawny, it did seem like you were away, maybe it was just that so many people are posting (which is a good thing, though!!!!!). I find it so interesting how the UK WW differs from ours, you would think it would be all the same. Also, I read on another thread on this site (CORE support or something like that) that the UK is going to get the CORE plan in January. Marketing a new plan in January is always good for sales with all those New Year's resolutions! ;)
I'm still doing CORE, but am journalling as I said I would. I am truly doing "both" plans at the moment, but with CORE foods. I think the eating until you feel satisfied thing about CORE was just too scary for me. I've been eating well, exercising, drinking my water and doing everything right. But, here it is the weekend and I notoriously have trouble eating out on Saturday nights. BUT, there is one change this weekend from "the usual" as I was very careful with my use of flex points and I actually have more than I usually have left over this weekend. So, maybe I will finally see a loss at weigh in this Tuesday? I'd be thrilled!
Melanie, wow a trip to Wendys, you are living on the edge! But, only using 3 flex points to do it is marvelous! I'm craving some fast food and haven't allowed myself that treat in awhile, but maybe after weigh in this week if things go really well? :devil:
Bella, I'm really going to try that pumpkin chocolate cake this week, sounds quite good! All that added fiber as well!
Angela, good idea to change meetings and make your own way. A slight gain during a bad week, emotionally, is nothing to worry about. But, get yourself outdoors, do some walking and set your mind to do this!
Take care, everyone, time for my breakfast!
Linda

Good Morning!

I was a writing FOOL yesterday! When it came time for dinner, I had only eaten 8 points, so I ordered a thin crust, small, veggie (all zero points) pizza for dinner and yummmmmy! According to the WW - book I was supposed count that as 15 points, but I didn't believe it so added 5 :shrug: (anyone have any idea if I'm doing this right?) I still ended up with some points left for the day (only 4) but I just couldn't eat any more. I had basically not spread my points out well. Know that's not a good idea, but it's the way it happend, so what? I did manage to get it all my water, fruits and veggies, milk, oil (still don't get the point of that but ok), and the all important vitamin. Of course, the water, again was easy to get it because of all the sodium :lol:

Well the general opinion here seems to be that the leader can make all the difference. Who knew? Can't tell you how many times before I just went, paid my money, got on the scale and left without even going to a meeting. Maybe that's the point, the meeting part huh??? :dizzy:

OK gonna go help the now ex find an apartment today. There is a method to my madness, the faster she finds a place, the faster she moves, the faster this limbo is overwith... :devil: She's all broken up, can't stop crying. I'm in 'action' mode... making lists of what needs to be done, etc... i'm sure this will all hit me like a ton of bricks at some point later. But right now, I'm incredibly productive! :cool:

Emerald - thanks for the tips... still sounds a bit more like cooking than I can do for the mornings (except for the breakfast bars)! I have more time in the evenings tho.

Ya'll are incredible...

Make today a good one!

Only a quickie, Bella, I have one of the WW pedometers, and am wearing it as I type. I do think that the main benefit for me is that I can at least judge if I've done more exercise than I have done the few days before. It also tells me if I've walked far enough to earn a bonus point or two. Although, it is amazing how far you really have to walk to earn any. Time is nothing really, it goes on distance, speed and steps. You will need to be doing about 10,000steps, or going on for 3 miles to earn even 1 point. Unless you have actually gone out on a 'walk' , rather than just your day to day pottering about, its really hard to achieve, and by wearing the pedometer, it just proves to yourself just how sedentary our livestyles tend to be. Or maybe its just me!
Anyway, Hi because I haven't heard from you in a while, and thanks for the kind words re my plateau. You'll soon get back on track yourself, you've had a busy time lately, just keep going.

Linda, interesting news about getting the core plan over here. I hadn't heard anything, I'm hoping to have reached goal by then as you know, but if not, at least I'll know all about it by then.

Angela, keep going girl, you have such a positive attitude that you'll get through these tough days soon enough. And yeah, staying to the meetings is the only thing that's put me in the position I'm in today. OH, and you lot of course.

Anyway, gotta go, see ya later.

Hello! DH just left to get a whopper of an ice cream treat with his dad, so I'm here with you gals! I told him that he can go do that whenever he wants; just tell me he's going to his dad's and leave out the details so I won't get jealous! The Dairy Queen is a trigger spot for me. I can't even try to be good there!

I had a pretty good day foodwise. I haven't looked up the ribs I had at the in-law's house yet, but DH was a sweety and asked before he smothered mine with the thick sauce. I think it will be okay. I did have to have a bite of his hotdog he had for lunch though. :devil: It was good.

It has been a busy day. When I got back from a short visit with my mother, we went to a college soccer game about 30 minutes away. Believe it or not, it was my first game. There was not a soccer team at my school growing up and is just now starting to be a big sport in this area. I wasn't terribly thrilled about going, it was for DH. But, I really enjoyed it and we plan to go again. This is where I met the hotdog.

I am now contemplating a quick workout tonight, but it will probably wait until tomorrow. I am pretty tired and wouldn't be worth much energy anyway.

Angela - I don't know how to count that pizza. It will also depend on the cheese. If it was a chain restaurant, you can visit their website and see if they have a nutritional chart to find the cal./fiber/fat and figure it yourself. I had a hand-tossed Hawaian pizza last weekend that was 4 points per slice (med pizza).

Natalie - Our McD's ran that special for a while too. I got one, and I have to say, test it. Mine was terribly inaccurate. I walked to the library and back, which I know is just over a mile. The pedometer said that it was hardly half a mile. So, I would test it with a distance that you know. I was a bit irked because I was excited to get it, but then decided it was free after all.

Well, I'm going to go finish counting my points and see if the couch needs to be held down for a while. ;)

Just thought I'd pop in for a mo. We're going to fetch the treadmill later, It'll take about an hour and a half drive each way, so that'll be fun then!

A good scale visit this morning! It seems I could be between 1 and 2 pounds down since WI, which would be fab. That's despite the wine I had last night which did take me a point over. I guess just one point occasionally means not too much.

Melanie. Glad you enjoyed the soccer. The game is our biggest sport here. I'm not really a fan, and don't go to games, but for the sake of DH I have to follow the results of certain local teams. If David Beckham played for our local team I'm sure I'd be a much bigger fan than I am!!!

Oh well, said it'd be a quick visit for a change, so I'll be back later.

Hi everyone!
Just so you know, Melanie, if you have a child at some point, you will learn much more about soccer, even if you don't want to! I had never been to a game before, either, and suddenly all my kid's friends were involved and suddenly I was providing drinks, snacks and organizing trophies and gifts for coaches. I'm glad those days are over with and my kids are into different stuff now. I'm just not into it, but was for the sake of my kids.
The scale was good to me this morning as well! But, last night I indulged and used up 14 flexpoints, no regrets though. I had the points and enjoyed my Saturday night! We bought the new Star Wars DVD trilogy and watched the first one in surround sound. Was pretty cool and we enjoyed it, though I probably have the lines almost memorized to those movies! :smug:
We went shopping later in the day as well and enjoyed walking in the mall. I had done 40 minutes on the treadmill earlier, and added about another point for walking, but didn't count that extra in my journal.
Today is a lazy day, I decided I deserved an "all about me" day.... not going to church (sorry God, hope I am forgiven), not going much of anywhere, just hanging around and taking it easy. I am overtired and sore from working out and think today will also be a day off from that as well. Probably when I need it the most after last night, but I am wiped out, it seems.
Every now and then my energy level really suffers, wonder why?
Linda

Good morning all, well its the start of a new week, and the start of my new fitness regime! I have the treadmill at last, but I think it will take a bit of getting used to. It's got a permanent incline, which can be adjusted, but I have to get used to walking lots up hill! I have enough hills around here to contend with, and they sure make you build up a sweat! I did only about 8 minutes yesterday, and I was shattered. I think I'll build it up gradually!

Hi Linda, have you recovered this morning? I know what you mean about the energy levels dropping sometimes. I think when you are doing alot of exercise your body does take a dip at times. Maybe you should take 2 or 3 rest days without a workout a week, give your body time to recover. As far as I've always been aware when I used to run and go to the gym - a few moons ago - the body loses the weight and tones up on the days that you rest. So as well as your energy maybe raising a little, maybe it could help other things too. I think sometimes I should listen to my own advice, I'm the same at work. If I'm going for something, I don't stop, and don't really think of the consequences or benefits of doing something a bit different. Listen to me rambling again, I know what I'm talking about really!!!
Did you buy anything at the mall? I'm starting to enjoy clothes shopping a bit now. I used to hate it. Nothing would ever fit, or if it did it would look horrible. I couldn't find anything fashionable, especially if I wanted something to wear to go out, it would be even worse. Now, even if I can't really afford to buy anything, I like to go in and just try a few different things on, get an idea of what I may get away with, or would suit me on a special occasion. Window shopping with an edge. Its becoming fun, I wish though that it wasn't so expensive.

I hope everyone else, Melanie, Ali, Angela, Natalie, Bella, and anyone else who cares to lurk and read our stuff, had a great weekend, I'll be back later to check in on you all. I have our health visitor calling in around an hour to do AJ's 3 year check up. Check his sight, general health etc. I don't think we have anything to worry about.

See ya later.

Dawny, I had a good weekend. I did eat a good bit, but have only used about half my fp. SO today I am guzzling the water, so I don't retain water any. I was also quite active this weekend.

My oldest daughter rode her bike for the first time with out training weels. She is SO proud. My hubby got on his bike and rode around with her. Now my youngest can't wait to get rid of hers. And we now have to get her a new bike (and I think we are going to get mommy a new bike as well lol) That way we can go to ride over the weekend. I can't wait.

Well I hope everyone else had a good weekend!

Just a quickie, hey guys! I lost control during the weekend, I was out Saturday night, and on Sunday was my birthday, so didn't count any points. Bad excuse, I know... I still have 2 days until my WI, I'll be extra-good to see a little loss. I hope you're all doing well. Take care!

Good morning everyone!
I am feeling much better today. So glad I listened to my body and took a day off from my vigorous exercising. I also found myself wondering if I should have eaten differently, and if that made me feel less energetic? I keep hearing and reading about protein and that you need a certain amount to feel energetic. Wonder if I had enough? Will have to examine my journal.
I am about read to get off line and go for a good work out, and feel I am "up" for it today!
I hope you adjust to your treadmill, Dawny, and I think you will. When I first started with mine, I would walk on it for something like 10 minutes and only go 1/4th mile and be kind of down on myself for not going at least a mile. Now, I go about 2 miles, on average. I vary the incline and speed. If I am having a less energetic day, I also don't use the incline and keep my speed lower, but at least I don't give up! :snail:
Natalie, I am a very firm believer in not counting calories, points or whatever on your OWN birthday or OWN anniversary..... but if I have birthday cake on Jamie's birthday in a few weeks, I won't get angry at myself. Once in awhile we celebrate, life would be boring without it. Just don't let it be the start of the "birthday week" or "anniversary week" pitfall.... a big problem for me! :lol:
Happy Birthday!!!!!!! :hb:
Also, when the holiday season arrives, I shall have a few goodies. If I have a few set backs because of this, I will not be angry, I will enjoy the celebration and those special foods that are only reserved for these occasions. Every family has these foods. At least, those of you in the UK don't have Thanksgiving to worry about. It's a day "all about the food"! Yet, I love it and would miss it if we didn't celebrate! Bring on the turkey and stuffing - for one day I shall indulge and enjoy it. But, on the next day, all the leftovers will be frozen, trashed, given away or whatever!
Bella, bike riding is so good for you! Go for it! I remember how exciting it was for my kids when they lost those training wheels. But, it's nothing compared to my son the day he got his driver's lisence! He was so excited. He had no where to go, it was funny, but he just HAD to go out. I gave him money to gas up my car and sent him on a few errands. He was so happy! I smiled, but worried.
I love the way Dawny worded her hello to everyone, listing the names and then adding "and anyone else who cares to lurk and read our stuff". Same goes for me. If you are lurking and not posting with us, we'd love to hear from you, though.
It's an interesting thing to think that we could have an unidentified "base" of people who read all about us. I don't mind, if I did I wouldn't be posting here. But, I am wondering what it is that makes some of us post and the others just read? ;)
I only have two flex points left and weigh in is tomorrow. I'm feeling good as my scale tipped down a bit this morning, but don't want to get carried away and celebrate anything, or even announce a number here until tomorrow and I know by THEIR scales!
Linda in lovely NH where the leaves are turning and there are no hurricanes in sight! So sorry for those affected in the southern states.

Dawny - Good job on the bike! I tried my mother's non-motorized treadmill one day and only stayed on about 10 minutes. I had trouble getting it to go without stopping or falling on my face. I am still hoping that soon I can afford a gym or Y membership again. I got up this morning and the sun was still trying. Soon, it will still be dark when I get up, and that will make things harder. I need the sunshine streaming in the window to nudge me. Hope the doc's visit went well.

Natalie - Oh, well. It's another day. I hope you had a fantastic birthday. I already have planned my next few holidays! I'm a planning addict! On Thanksgiving and Christmas, I will eat what I want and call it all 35 FPs, and just try to stay OP the rest of the week. On my birthday (May), I will be having a Lava Cake for a local restaurant! On my anniversary (March), DH and I are going to the restaurant where we ate on our honeymoon and I will definately toss the journal out the window on that one!Certain days are to be celebrated without caution! But, we have to choose what days those are. I would be in big trouble if I celebrated all my family and friends’ birthdays with wreckless abandon! I was in charge of cutting DH’s birthday cake last week and made sure mine was a small piece, but I still got to celebrate with them. Oh, shucks. Dawny’s rambling has become contagious.

Bella – I have been meaning to take up bike riding all summer. FIL said I could use one of their bikes as long as I wanted b/c we can’t afford to buy one right now. Well, there never has been a good time to go get it; or at least when I am thinking about it. Fall is here, but I may still see into that. It would be a good change from walking.

Linda – I’m glad you enjoyed your day off. We all need to revive ourselves sometimes. I took the day off from exercise yesterday, but I wasn’t doing too well emotionally, so the day wasn’t very much fun. Glad you are seeing results on the scale too. I’ve been bullied into staying off the scale quite a bit. But, I might hop on today to see if I did much damage with my snacking this weekend.

NEWS REPORT: I finally found the WW Muffins and snack cakes. I got a box of 1 pt brownies and a box of 3 pt Apple Spice Muffins. Both are very yummy. The brownies are more cake-like than brownie, but good. It is about the size of a twinkie, but a smidge bigger. Some people have complained they are so small, but what do you expect for 1 pt! And the Apple Spice Mufins are very good. However, only 3 muffins to a box for $2.87. Almost $1 per muffin is a bit expensive in my opinion, but quite worth it. I located them at the Super-Walmart in my hometown 30 miles away. So, I think I will be doing more shopping there!

Also, I found Kudos bars. Granola with chocolate mixed in. YUM! Only 2 pts for the Snickers and M&M, but 3 pts for the chocolate chip and it is a good sized bar for only 2 pts. Great for an afternoon pick-me-up.

Hope everyone is having a better Monday than me. I kinda feel like I’ve been hit by a truck, but that’s a Monday for ya.

Hello people. Me again. I've been on the treadmill and did just over 30 minutes today. I was sweating like a pig. Not very ladylike I know, but then I never was! I didn't go very far, although its in Km not miles, so it takes some figuring out for me! :tread:

Natalie, I wish I'd known it was your birthday, I would have sung you a little song, :hb: but its probably just as well for everyone in the neighbourhoods sake! :joker: Don't panic about the over indulgence, it's what birthdays are all about. Just get back on track, you'll be fine.

Linda, glad you are feeling a bit better today. It's nice when those energy levels return, and you can be full of beans again. It sounds as if your scales are being good to you too, so hopefully WI tomorrow will go to plan. I'm sure it will. You've been so good that something will be happening, I can just feel it.

Melanie, hi, do you really think you will struggle with your early morning exercise when the mornings are darker? I wouldn't worry too much about it. By the time you are all worked out, and showered, the sun will be up, and the world will look a more inviting place again. If you don't work out like you have been doing, at least sometimes, then I think you would miss it now. And then of course you may just not end up getting out of bed at all. By the way, sorry if the rambling is catching!
The muffins sound nice. We get some over here, I don't know if they are the same or not, but they are very small, and I don't think they are worth the 2 or so points. There are some nice cherry bakewells, with a cherry on top, yummy, but I think they are 2.5 points each, much nicer though. (A bit of trivia - I live near THE Bakewell, and the real Bakewell puddings are Very Nice Indeed. I wouldn't even think of working out the points in them, there must be hundreds! Of course, I'm assuming you've heard of Bakewell, Probably not. )

By the way, I'm not doing the abseil thing now. It should have been this weekend, but my friend cancelled it when she heard I was ill the other week. She didn't tell me until Friday, so at least I have no worrying to do now for a bit. The other thing she declined to tell me was that she has been and got herself married! It's hers and her partners 2nd marriage, and my friend is from Sweden, so all her family are abroad and might have caused complications with guest lists etc, so they just ran away to Gretna Green to do the deed. I'm really happy for her, and it sounds as if they had a beautiful ceremony in a tiny chapel, and the 'priest' (I say priest as I'm unsure of the denomination!) said a little prayer for my friends sister, who is extremely ill in Sweden with Cancer. I've seen a couple of piccies, and My friend looked beautiful, I wish I could have been there, but understand why they did it in the way they did. Waffle over.

Gotta go now, Loads of ironing to catch up with unfortunately. :shrug:

Hello Friends!

Hope this finds you all well!

Linda - any chance you are still losing fat but gaining muscle with all that working out? Have your measurements changed? Y'all have all probably discussed this and I may have missed it, but I thought I'd just throw my two cents in for what it's worth... Sounds like you're looking forward to a loss anyway, way to go!!

Dawny - Way to go on that treadmill! I'm impressed that you even purchased one. I'd be too intimidated. I have a membership at a gym about 2 miles from my apartment that I pay for each month and I've yet to step foot in there 'this time.' Not much of an excuse for that huh? I'm afraid I'll fall flat on my face! And no, I'm afraid I don't know what Bakewell is (are?) but I know you did a fabulous job of explaining and I'm quite hungry right now!

Melanie - I love those Kudos bars too. I feel like a real person eating those things. I couldn't believe 2 points either!! I've not tried the WW snack cakes, I'll have to try them.

Natalie - Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you, happy birthday dear Natalie, happy birthday to you! And many mooooorrreee.....

Well, now for my check in. I've done pretty well over the weekend. I went with my 'friend' to help her find a new apartment. We went out for lunch. I counted everything. Even though I ate some things that were quite costly, I counted them anyway, and used some FP's. Did the same when we celebrated my nephew's birthday (birthday celebrations in my family are week long events) - ate some costly things, but counted them anyway. If you remember, when I went to the Southern Living party last week, I ate things that I considered 'off limits' didnt' count them, gave up and gained. This time, I counted them, considered them FP's, and am still OP. I"m feeling OK about things. I have lots of FP's left. I didn't pig out. I did eat some things, but I didn't OVER eat those things. I managed myself. Imagine that. Who knew? I'm really pushing for a loss this week. It's going to happen. How's that for a plan?

Ya'll have a good day!

Its me, again, don't know why I mentioned the Bakewell thing earlier, I thought someone may have heard of a Bakewell Tart! Oh well, they are very yummy, and not really 'tarts' at all in Bakewell. And still too many points to contemplate.
Hi Angela, glad you are 'pushing' for it now, sounds as if you've had another great weekend at least. Enjoy while you can. I've never heard of a kudos bar, I now wish I had.

Ok I'm off again now, DH has gone to donate blood, and it's nearly AJ's birthday, not its not, he's just had one, its nearly AJ's bedtime, (similar!), so bathtime awaits after Little Bears on tv. Back tomorrow night after work, so don't panic and wonder where I am!!!

Linda (derrydaughter) I LOVE your attitude! That is exactly why you are going to succeed! You have to be able to be HAPPY and have those occasional indulgences! This plan is for life and you have to have fun and be happy or you are not going to stay on it! Way to go! :)

Angie, thanks! I'm hoping that this weight loss will be "it" for me, for the rest of my life. I know that certain holidays and celebrations are part of my life and part of what makes life enjoyable. I think that one must acheive a proper balance and be able to enjoy some of the things that make life worth living, while being concerned and healthy.
I know I will have a glass of wine once in awhile, I can't say I'll never have it again. I know I will have a good dessert if we go out for a special occasion, I know I will have some Christmas cookies, etc. This all must figure into my life and I need to find ways to bring (but not overindulge, either) these important things into my life, but not be unhealthy. It's a hard balance, but I am working towards that goal.
I've not heard of a Bakewell tart, can you describe more about it? I've seen a product called Bakewell in a cooking catalog, though. Dawny, it's so interesting how some of the UK recipes have never made it over here to the USA. I learned, from my good friends from the UK, the delights of "Spotted Dick" (sponge pudding with custard sauce) and I think it's fabulous. Have not found a way to figure that into my ww plan, so far, but for a special occasion, will indulge!
Angela, I do wonder about that theory on the muscle weighing more than fat.... truly I've heard so many different opinions (and from different ww leaders) about this. Truth or fiction? I wonder. However, I have been working out, but I am glad and if it somehow slows down the weight loss, it's still the healthiest approach. Now, Angela, time for me to kick butt a bit here...... what are you spending money on this gym for if you aren't going? Get yourself in there and work! I keep hearing more and more people who are "ashamed" to go in and begin working out at these places, but it's there for you and you will feel better if you go. You might get out there (and after a break up one needs to make friends and feel better) and meet some friendly people!
Well, time to hit the shower and "face the music". It's my meeting and weigh in morning..... will the scales be good? We shall see..... Naturally (I swear it's me, mentally!) they seemed to move UP again at home this morning! I need to stay off my own scales and stop this insanity! Easier said than done!
Linda

Hello, all! Gee, I feel 100% better today than I did yesterday. Really wanted to go back to bed instead of exercise. Finally, I bargained with myself that if I did not wake up in the first 5 minutes of ex, I would sleep more. Well, I made it another day. Now, I am tone & buff. Or, tonER and buffER. I believe I will be a productive person today!

Linda – Can’t wait to hear the results of your WI! I hope you break that nasty cycle you’ve been on! I’m sure the journaling will have helped! I have actually managed to stay off the scale mostly this week. I don’t think of it before I exercise and know that it won’t be accurate after. And, of the afternoon, I get so caught up doing things that I forget until after dinner, when I know it won’t be accurate either! But, I have stepped on once or twice and have high hopes for this week’s WI. I think after I hit that 50# mark, I will start focusing on it a bit less. I am after that promised new wardrobe like a mad woman! Must spend my mother’s money! :lol:

Dawny – For some reason, Bakewell cookies sound familiar, but I don’t think I have ever had them. How is the treadmill going? Are you up a few minutes? Money is tight here, but I told DH this morning that I have outgrown my 2# hand weights and simply must splurge about $10. Gee, I feel strong. :strong:

Angela – I understand the gym thing. I used to have a gym membership and sometimes it would bother me to be putting along while others were jogging on the treadmill next to me. But, then I would look around and see others who were going the same speed as me. That helped. I think the main thing is to wear exercise clothing you are not uncomfortable in and you might find a time when the gym is less crowded. If they offer classes, I would wait a bit to join in. I know that I would feel icky when I seemed like the only one struggling. But, having dropped several pounds, I would try it now. I’m glad you found the apartment and have a bit of closure now. Keep your head up, girl!

Well, time to start that productive day!

Hello all!! :coffee:
How are we feeling today? I'm feeling great myself, I had a NSV this morning. I went to a clothes store and decided to try on a pair of jeans a size smaller than my own. And they fit!!!! :encore: :dancer: I was really happy, especially since they were low-cut, you know, the ones that fit below your waist. And they fit fine, so I can finally say goodbye to my current size for good!! It felt great, it really did. :D
I'm doing well today food-wise, I was bad for the last 3 days, so I'm trying to minimise the damage. I sneakily weighed myself today though, and it seems like I've maintained, which is great considering the bad 3 days. My official WI is tomorrow morning so we'll see how it goes.
I'm very happy for you guys as well, you all seem to be doing fine. I wish I could do some exercise during the day, but I really can't afford any gym equipment. I've decided though, to take my dog for a walk every day for 15 minutes. I know it probably won't make any difference, but still, better than none.
Linda, I'm looking forwards to your results. Sending you thin vibes! :goodvibes


Take care all!! xxxx

Just another thing:
Is anyone up for a new challenge?? I was thinking about an October one, and we can all set our different goals, in order for everyone to be comfortable. Let me know what you think. :)

Nat - :cheer: Great NSV! I did that a couple of weeks ago while I was waiting for something in a store. Just decided to see what size I could fit into. It is fun. But, for some reason, I have size 18 clothing in my closet that is still too small. I'm guessing that I shrunk it in the wash since I can wear a size 16 in stores.

As for the exercise, like I said, I am planning to splurge on $10 hand weights. :D I bought some videos off ebay (4 for $19). Just move the furniture a smidge, and instant gym!

I'm up for a new challenge. I'm going to show my ignorance, but is Halloween (Oct. 31) a worldwide holiday? Or just here in the states? I was thinking that would be a good challenge ender. I'm up for a 10# challenge! And commitment to continue exercising 5-6 days each week.

Hi Mel!!
Well, the jeans I put on in the store were a size 16 also, my own are 18, so I've officially dropped a size. :) I can't wait to drop another, this trip to the stores have really increased my motivation!
I'm happy you want to be in the challenge, and no, Halloween is not an international holiday, although I really like it and I wish it would be celebrated here! Anyone else who's up for a challenge let us know!! :)

Hello Everyone! I just found this board and I think that this is a GREAT Motivator. I found this site yesturday when I was looking up things for WW. I started it yesturday-- Bought the Books and the calculator off Ebay and Im going to try it by myself without having to go and weight in. But I have a great Scale at work to keep me on track! Im am going to start workingout tonight-- I have "The Firm" Kicked My Butt in the past havn't done it for a while but hoping if I mix it with the WW I'll have great results. So I guess Im just here to say Hi and to let you all know that I'll be checking this site through out the day and trying to keep up with all of you! and Congratulations-- You are all doing wonderful! I just hope I have the Self Disapline to do this! Wish me Luck! Happy Losing! :-P

Hello All :wave:

Linda-Thanks for the good old fashioned butt kicking. :drill: I'm actually planning to go to the gym today. I set goals for myself each day and it's on the top of the list. Good luck at WI today! :goodscale

Melanie - I actually have invested too much money in the 'perfect' work out clothes, shoes, the whole get up. No real excuses here. Just self esteem and lazyness I'm afraid. :p

As far as the apartment goes. I'm staying in the apartment my GF and I have been living in together for about a year. We went down this morning to get her off the lease and extend my lease. She's moving out in about a week. I'm having mixed feelings about it all. :mad: :( :?: :cry: I'm ready to get it overwith so I can move on. I was looking around the apartment and realized that I will have a very empty apartment once she's gone, including no bed. Bummer. So, time to go shopping, quickly. In the middle of all this transition, my nephews will be staying with me for about a week. The boys have a room here. Their room will remain exactly the same. I want her gone, my stuff moved in and settled all before they get here so they aren't mixed in the confusion. I'm very protective of them and believe they shouldn't be involved in any chaos. So it's all strategically (sp?) planned. They know she's getting her own apartment, etc. No big deal to them, really. I have to manage not to eat my way through this. Of course, today as I try to plan this gig, I'm STARVING. :tape: So I'm drinking enough water for all of us. (Too bad it doesn't work that way.)

Uhm, I'm curious what a NSV is?

And bring on a Challenge. I'm ready for anything to focus on besides this crap!

Makin it a good day here in Texas!!:cool:

Tales – Good to meet ya! Welcome to the site. Hope you find some good info, motivation, encouragement, and friendship here! I am doing WW at home also, but meet with a group at church once a week to WI and do Bible Study. There is a ton of info to be found on the internet about WW to help on the way. And getting started with the exercise is great! Sounds like you are off to a good start.

Angela – Sounds like the nephews are coming at just the right time. You will be busy with the transition and then busy with them. Staying busy can be good, as long as you take care of yourself in the process. Happy shopping. Oooo, I wish I could come up with a happier way to get some new furniture. Unfortunately, I will keep what I have until they stop making duct tape. Hope things go well at the gym!

Almost forgot - NSV = Non-Scale Victory, compliment, getting into your old/new jeans, things that say you are doing well other than the scale. :D

I’m looking forward to lunch. I’m using my lunch break to put dinner in the crockpot. A steak dish with mushroom gravy and onions. Mmmmm… Can hardly wait! Good thing I won’t be home to smell it cooking! Poor DH. He gets home earlier than me. A good crockpot dish can drive a person mad!

Hi all,

Well I am having a great day. I just had wi and even though I am retaining tons of water, I lost 2lbs. I also drank 120oz of water yesterday and felt like I was floating all day, but now I'm better, so to start all over!!!

Sorry to be so short, but I have to eat lunch before the kids get off the bus.

Good work Bella! 2# lost is great! I know you wish it was more like last week, but it is great! Especially, if you have a bunch of water with you! SIL drank a 20 oz bottle or water shortly before WI last week and was upset she didn't lose. :rolleyes: I told her to go pee and try again. She dropped .5 immediately! WIs are precious, cherished little things, but I'm reminded more and more lately that it is always just an estimate. It depends on your breakfast, soft drinks, clothing, hair clips, nail polish, etc. Okay. Yes. I am rambling. But, my lunch break is 3 min. away. Don’t wanna start something to work on for 3 min. :sumo: So, you get my attention!

I thought you had 1 daughter, but your post said “kids.” Are there more?

Oooo… one minute! Just enough time to post this and find my keys!

Later!

A quikie!!

Bella -- Way to go!!!

Tales -- Welcome !!!

Gotta run ! : )

Be good

HI its me, sorry, only a quick post tonight, a scary programme just started on tv, and I love it. Bella, fab news, keep it up, and good luck to everyone else on their WI's, many of which are tomorrow.
Gotta go, back tomorrow night, oh, hi Tales, thanks for joining, you're very welcome.

See ya later. Oh yeah ( I never can leave can I?), Halloween Melanie, yeah, we get that here, nothing like as good as you though! Linda, I'll talk Bakewell Pudding tomorrow!

Bye x

Drum roll please..... I am down, yes down, 1.4 pounds! Wow, that felt good to say. It's not .2 or .4, etc. for a change but there is a number in front of the "point"! Not as big as some people's losses, but for me a huge relief! I weighed in at 149.0 this morning! Officially in the final range ww has for as, 20 points! My grand total loss since April is now 13.8.
Starting weight: 162.2
Total loss: 13.8
Total left to lose until 10% goal: 2.4
Total left to lose to get to goal, 13.0 - I am now closer to goal than my starting weight!!!!

By the way, I totally understand the gym thing, don't misunderstand me! Hey, I used to go to a YWCA when I lived in NY and took a Body Shaping class every Tuesday and Thursday mornings. I used to feel like I was always behind the class and was kind of embarrassed. But, after class one day, a woman who I didn't know came up to me and told me I was her inspiration! She said I was amazing in that I could keep up so well with the instructor compared to her. I was so self involved that I wasn't taking anyone else into account when I was killing myself working out, I felt like all eyes were on me and critical. There actually was a set of eyes on me, but they were actually admiring eyes!
Hey, if you go and see someone who seems to be really going strong and you admire them, don't hesitate to say so - you will have made someone's day and they might end up your friend!
Natalie, I hope you do ok for your own weigh in, I'm sending YOU good vibes as well! Walking the dog for 15 minutes a day sounds like a great way to get into an exercise plan. What kind of dog is it? Maybe you could even go to a park and throw a Frisbee as a "reward" to your dog for being your walking partner, the two of you will be happy and in good shape!
I think a new challenge might be a good thing. I want to think about what I would challenge myself to do.... it might not be a number of pounds, but it might be to do something for myself in terms of keeping up my motivation and working towards my goal of being a ww leader one day. Maybe I need to get out and walk outdoors instead of on my treadmill? Maybe I need to promise myself to keep my house cleaner, therefore I would be getting in extra activity?
I want it to be something I can stick to and not be scale related!
I liked Melanie's idea of something related to Halloween..... maybe TRICK or TREAT.... treat being something good you do for yourself that is NOT food as our ultimate reward? Can you TRICK your body into being more active, can you TRICK your mind into thinking differently and not sabotaging your own best intentions? Let's think of something fun!
Welcome Tales... I wish you luck and keep us posted on how you are doing. I do think that going to the ww meetings is very important, though, if you can go it on your own, that's great, but if you find that your motivation is slipping - try the meetings! Melanie goes to her church, and this group motivates her and she feels accountable. I think being weighed in my another person each week vs. just yourself somehow make you work harder?
Angela, You go girl! I hope your visit to the gym goes well and that you feel accomplished when you are back. I want to know all about it! NSV means Non Scale Victory! It's an accomplishment like getting into another clothing size. For you, it will be getting yourself to the gym and taking that first step - the first step is the hardest. I remember the first time I ever walked into a ww meeting. I felt like a failure and soooo fat..... but that was a NSV, in itself, as I recognized that I had allowed myself to gain extra weight and I had a victory in terms of taking a step to deal with it!
Don't forget local e-bay listings when it comes to the bed and any other furniture. Also, local newspapers will often have great used furniture deals. Some of the local mattress stores near me have "mismatched" box spring and mattress sets for much cheaper! Hope you get a deal!
I get kind of "motherly" when it comes to our group from time to time and I am now worried that, with your X gone, will you be able to afford all of this on your own? I hope so!
Excellent job, Bella,on the loss! You are doing really well! I'm jealous, as I struggle for every tiny .2, but we all lose differently and I am a bit older....

Melanie, you are right it depends on clothes, hair clips, jewelry, etc. as far as a weigh in. I try not to drink a ton of coffee or water before my meeting, I wait and bring coffee with me! I try very hard to wear the same exact outfit, even underwear, each week. For Tale, our "at home" newcomer, do try to weigh yourself at the same time of day each week and also wear (or not wear if you're home!) the same thing. This is a "do as I do, not as I say" thing, but one really shouldn't get on the scale every day, once or twice a week is best. Spoken as a true scale-a-holic who weighs herself several times a day....maybe that should be my own personal "trick or treat" challenge? I should challenge myself to NOT weigh myself each day.... maybe even go to every other day at first and work my way up to a few days (maybe four) where I can go without it? It's truly an addiction! I can "trick" myself into thinking that I don't need that scale to know if I am treating my body healthy! I can treat myself if I can do it?
Linda in rainy NH where the remnants of hurricane Jeanne are with us

Hey all!
Linda, HUGE congrats on your fantastic loss!! :bravo: :bravo: You must be thrilled, great news girl!!! :cp: :cp: I'm really happy for you. :D

I'm glad you all seem to like the idea of a new challenge. Since October is Halloween time for most of you, I like the idea of a Trick or Treat challenge. Ok, I'm thinking maybe the "Trick" part should be our goal, whether it's weight, measurements, exercice, general well-being. And the "Treat" part is an indulgence we will have at the end of the challenge, a special dessert (only once though! ;) ), a manicure, new clothes, new haircut, anything we like. I can be the "moderator" again, if you want me to. I'll start a new thread where you can sign up for it, stating your "trick" (goal) and the "treat" parts. Is everyone fine with it?

I'm fine with the Trick or Treat challenge... make sure you spell it out for me though, this being my first challenge and all : )

Linda - naw, don't worry about the $ part of this break-up. I'm the 'bread-winner' in most of my relationships. As a matter of fact, I'll end up coming out ahead, one less mouth to feed, body to clothe, gifts to buy, clothes to lauder, well, you get the point ; ). I have to watch that I DON'T end up beating myself up at the end of a relationship for being too generous at the expense of my own goals. Progress over perfection.... Thanks for thinking of me!

Good morning to you all, and WI day is here again, and yet again I'm not optimistic. Earlier in the week I was hoping for a good 1 or 2 pound loss, and the scales were going in the right direction. The last two days, this morning included, they are not behaving and I just may not have lost anything at all. I don't think I would have gained any, but I really wanted to lose my pound for my mini goal. If I don't lose it this week I will be absolutely gutted. I've been so good, eating all my points, not going over at all, exercising, drinking loads of water - 8 to 10 glasses a day,which is more than usual, not too many carbs, not alot of sodium, basically everything right as far as I can see. So if I don't lose anything, I will not be a happy bunny. I will be hunting out the lightest possible outfit I have in the wardrobe and possible hold a bunch of balloons whilst on the scale tonight. Oh well, I have lots of hours to go until then, so who knows, maybe I will miraculously(sp?) melt away during the day. I may try some of Melanies divine inspiration, as it seems to work for you!!!

Linda, fantastic loss. You must be so pleased this week, I know that you have waited a while for a good loss, and it's such a boost when it finally happens. I liked your story about the classes you used to attend. I never heard of anyone praising someones ability from afar like that - certainly never happened to me, although I can't imagine I was ever an aerobic inspiration for anyone, two left feet and all that.
Back to the other issue, Bakewell Tart, or pudding, or whatever you want to call it. It is a pastry base, with jam (jelly?) on top, then some kind of almond sponge on top (on the cheap versions)or a similar but different type of almond topping instead on the real stuff from Bakewell. The copies, WW cakes included, often have white soft icing on top and a cherry, and I love that stuff. People travel from all over to get hold of the real 'pudding', and it is yummy, but slightly off limits most of the time due to high points values. Maybe my little treat when I reach goal. Ask your friends about it Linda, I'm sure they will have heard of it.

There are so many people to keep up with now, I will have to come back later I think. Hope everyone has a good day. Back later.

Well, I gained 1.3 pounds. I'm not happy, but not so sad either. It's ok I guess. I'll brush up my act for this month's challenge, and try to have a loss next week. I'm waiting to hear about your WIs, take care girls!

Hi all!
Glad to read that you will be ok, Angela. I was worrying.
Dawny, doesn't it seem like time goes by so fast between weigh ins? I hope you do ok on yours!
Those Bakewell things sound really nice. I think the product I saw was called "Bakewell Cream" or something and it came in a can. Now I am really wondering what it was, will have to look for it.
I get a catalog from a company called King Arthur Flour, over here in the US it's a "premium" baking type of company, they mill their own flours and import really specialty ingredients for cooking. They cater to bread machine enthusiasts and also pizza making enthusiasts. They sell many gourmet cooking utensils and supplies. I think it is their catalog that I have seen this product in.
They also have microwavable crème brulee' mix, it's amazing and only 3 points a serving. I wouldn't have it every night, but what a treat it is!
Natalie, sorry about the gain. Now, you must figure out what you did wrong this week and work on that? Could be something really simple!
Today is another dreary and rainy day. I wish the sun was out, I'd feel more "sparky". I will be going in to do my workout and my aching joints will be "warmed up" after that and I hope to feel more energetic after that. Never mentioned it before, but I have arthritis that acts up on rainy days. I had Lyme disease several years ago and am left with this issue that bothers me often. There are "flare ups" during this kind of weather. I can't let myself "wallow" in it, though, then it actually will be worse.
I have found it's better since I've lost some weight as well, another incentive!
Linda

Linda, I know exactly what I did wrong. I ate like a pig for 3 days! :D So, it's not hard to figure out what went wrong in my WI. I decided not to count points today, I had a big lunch and I'm going out tonight with friends for dinner and I know I'll be swallowing huge amounts of wine, so I really can't be bothered with counting points, I think it's pretty pointless (no pun intended!). I'll get back on track tomorrow as I really want to see a loss next week. Take care of yourself Linda, you see, losing weight really improves our health as well. Byebye everyone! :)

Hi, Natalie, sorry about the loss, it can be a real downer when you see those numbers come up, but at least you know where it came from - and you enjoyed yourself getting them! Pigging out sometimes is fun, but putting right the damage afterwards isn't, so enjoy your day, sounds like you have some more munching to do, then get straight back into it tomorrow.

I'm not so sure what to say about this new October challenge. I need to contemplate for a little while what that goal will be. I'm so focused on my Christmas goal that everything else fades in comparison at the moment, although I do know that it's good to have mini goals in between. What that will be though is anyones guess. I'll come up with something I'm sure.

I've just been to the dentist and myself and AJ got glowing reports. He did mention about carbonated drinks and the danger they pose to teeth, and I was pleased that for once in my life I could honestly say I hardly touch the stuff. Since my teens I have been a complete diet coke addict, then other diet stuff kicked in, which I also enjoy, but since I 'found' ww, they hardly get a look in. I know they are 0 pts, but I think that because I'm drinking so much water, I couldn't fit any fizzy stuff in if I tried. I manage at work to get lots of weak milky tea in as well as my water, as we make so many darn cups of the stuff, but for every cup of tea that is made for me (or by me), I have a large glass of water to go with it. Very nice, except the trips to the bathroom are even more frequent! I don't think my body is ever going to adapt to the quantities of fluids going in and wanting to come straight out again, but I know its worth it. I know there are lots of thoughts about the water thing, and whether you are ok to count water with a bit of juice added, or carbonated or flavoured waters etc, but as far as I'm concerned, If its not clear, it ain't water, and with 'additives' in, of any kind, the body won't recognise the drink as being water anyway, but something to 'throw away', and not use in the best way possible. Of course, I have no idea what I'm talking about anyway, and it's just one of my many opinions, but what do you think? Do you all drink the 'pure' stuff, or do you have to 'dilute' it with juice etc?

I'd better go for now, not had any lunch yet, and if I don't get a move on, it will still be heavy in my tummy for WI later. Bye for now.

Hi Dawny!
I seem to be online all the time today, don't I? ;) Just a quick note, for the water thing. I agree with you, I only count my water intake, counting just pure water. I really like water, so I don't feel the need to dilute it with any fruit juices. I put a lot of water in my coffee each morning, and loads of ice, but never count it as water. I have lots of 1/2 litre bottles filled with water and drink from them throughout the day, I usually manage 4-5 of them, some days even more. That's all from me, hope you aren't sick of my posts already! ;)


ETA: Dawny, about the challenge, don't think of it as a big deal. I knoiw what you mean about Christmas though, I have a goal for Christmas too, but I think that being in the October challenge will help me towards the goal, it will be a good start towards reaching it. Think about it, and do as you feel. :)

Hi, its me again , just got back from WI, and its good news - one pound down, :cb: thats my mini goal of 42 pounds (3 stone to us Brits) at last. :cb: It has seemed a long time coming, but I'm really pleased. :cb: I was so 'chuffed' that I forgot to ask if I need to reduce my points officially now. I guess I do, but as I'm only .5 under the required weight, maybe I'll take it steady for now. That makes a few of us getting used to less points available to us at the same time, so we're in the same boat! 18 points just seems so few to me. I'll never have any spare to save for special occasions, like next weekend - wedding anniversary, meal out and new haircut!

Anyway, gotta go for now, how have you done Melanie? and everyone else?

See ya tomorrow. :cb: :cb: :cb:

Oh Dawny!!
I'm SOO Happy for you!! What an inspiration. Just what happens if we stick to it huh? I see you are sooo close to goal!! I'm smiling great big for you!! Hugs across the ocean for ya!

Hello, all! I really wanted to check in earlier today, but I have just now gotten the time (9:30 p). My day has been WILD! I started running when I got to work and didn't stop until after quitting time.

Great job Dawny on WI! I'm so happy you reached a goal!

Natalie - Well, at least you know where you went wrong. I hope you really enjoy your day off program and are ready to start again tomorrow!

For me, another 1.8 down! I'm thrilled with it! I have definately enjoyed each point this week. I still have 12 FPs, so it's a big dish of LF ice cream for me tonight. I will even toss in a WW brownie!

Well, I'm going to keep it short tonight. I'll try to chat more tomorrow!

Dawny, new avatar? Cute! ;)
Congrats on those weigh in successes, and Natalie, I have totally "been there" with a slight gain, it will come off. I love to drink water as well and just don't "get it" when some people at ww meetings chat about "hating" water.... what is to hate about it? It's cool, refreshing, etc. Oh well.
Dawny, I still can't imagine only eating 18 points in a day. The lowest they recommend here in the US is 20. Our programs are different and I still find myself wondering if our point assignments are the same or not. WW is an international company, but to have people only eating 18 points and when you say you don't get flexpoints, that is just so hard! How can one get in the proper amounts of fruit, dairy, etc. with only that little points? Wish I could read your program and ours side by side to see if there are differences!
Melanie, great weigh in for you as well!
We've all got to find a way to send positive energy to Natalie this week, with her gain! I hope you get back on track. Sometimes, I end up on a "binge" as well now and then and I am quite regretful afterwards!
We are going away this weekend, always a huge "test" for me. I could end up with a gain, like you Nat, as well. I am thinking that I will plan my meals ahead and make sure I bring what I need. We are going out to dinner on Saturday night, meeting my mom and dad as it's my mom's birthday. But, I can do this! An extra walk will help as well!
It's very cold here this morning, 43 degrees, by the way! Hard to feel motivated to get moving with my day when we are used to temps in the 70s.
Linda

Hello girls!
Congratulations to Mel and Dawny for their losses, good work!! :cp: :cp:
Thanks a lot for the positive thoughts you keep sending me, I'm really gonna need them. I had a blast last night, we had soooooo much fun and soooooo much wine! :D I had the most terrible hangover in the morning, I managed to crawl out of bed at 2 pm. I took a Nurofen, made a coffee and am drinking loads of water cos I'm really dehydrated from all the wine. I enjoyed myself though. I have to be careful with food, I really want to see a loss next week. Take care girls!!!

Oh Dear! Linda - another weekend away!?! We need to send you some vibes too! :D I know you can make it through the weekend! It's great that you are planning ahead. I know that going out-of-town has been a challenge for you. The weather here has been quite nippy too. Today I woke up to 43 deg weather and it will be a high of 70. I had to finally wear my long pants to WI last night. So, I tell myself that my loss was actually bigger than 1.8 ;).

I'll also weigh in on the water topic. I have to make myself drink water. It's not that I don't like it, but I would never crave it. "Hmmm, I'm in the mood for something tasteless..." :no: not me. I would rather have my juice or Crystal Lite. I don't mind drinking water, but it has to be a decision for me to get to the water cooler instead of the fridge. I have limited my dt. cokes though. I decided none Monday - Wednesday. That will get some sodium out before WI, and encourage me to drink healthier during the week.

Poor Natalie (patting your head). Hangovers stink more and more as you get older. I never used to suffer so... :devil: I haven't really drank more than a glass or two of wine in years, but when I got to about 23, I discovered that things had changed and I would pay dearly the next day. My best remedy for a hangover tummy is a plain roast beef sandwich.

For some reason, it is the only thing that I have found to be kind to me the next day. Hope you are feeling better and can still look upon the festivities with a smile. :D

Well, that’s all the chat for now. Gotta get back to work.

Hi all, hope you are all ok this evening, the sun is shining here, after a lousy morning, and I think we may have slightly warmer weather that you!!! That's a first at least!

Melanie, another great loss, You waited ages to get under the 00's and already you are miles under, its fab, only another little loss next week and then you get another cool dancing guy. The water thing, I can't cope without my water now. I don't think I'd admit to 'craving' it, but I do miss it if I don't get my quota per day now. I've had a bit less so far today, but because we didn't have much filtered stuff or nice bottled water in the fridge at work, and the tap water at work is lousy. I'll have to try to make up for it this evening, except then I could well be up all night, if you know what I mean. I also agree on the hangover thing. I've had some stinkers, and cold pizza first thing in the morning is quite good, if you can get anywhere near it that is!!!! Don't count the points for it, no point really if you've had a blow out the day before!

Linda, hi there, I can't believe you have another weekend away, so lucky. They just take some getting over though don't they. I'm not quite sure if our points on our foods are worked out in the same way as yours or not. The programmes obviously differ, with flexpoints etc, and the amount of points allowed for your weight are not that different, with the main exception of the 18 per day of course, and I wonder if its maybe quite a recent change. Did the US used to have the 123 success plan a year or two ago? We did here, and I think that our current programme is basically the same as that, assuming that ours of the same name was actually the same thing, if that makes sense. (probably not!) For example, we have one average slice of bread for 1 point. WW bread is .5 pts per slice. an apple (average) is .5, banana 1 or 2pts, 3xplums for .5 pts, diet sodas are 0 pts, most veggies 0pts, etc, etc. So I think its easy to get our 5 portions of fruit or veg into the equation, and still have lots left for normal food too. Do these points values sound similar to yours, or do you think we have some adapting to do? By the way, the avatar change was because I spotted someone had chosen the same as me, and I like to be a bit different.

Angela, thanks for the kind words. I hope you are doing ok now, hows the bed/furniture hunt going? And did you make a visit to the gym? It does take a while to get into it, but once you do, it can be addictive.

Natalie, sounds as if you did indeed have another fab night out. I do sympathise with the hangover of the year, been there and done that! I don't do it too often now I have to admit, and the last one was when me and a friend had a 'Eurovision song contest night' at my house (we are both addicts - sad, I know) and drank far too much of the red wine to be healthy, I think it was in May, and I've only just been able to face a little glass or so since. I think my American friends have no idea about this fabulous contest I'm talking about, and they don't know what they are missing, but me and my swedish friend (the one that just got married) wouldn't miss it for the world.

Oh well, I'd better go, the treadmill is calling. Got up to half an hour now, still sweating like a pig, but I'm sure that must mean its doing something. See ya later.

Hey, just a quick note. Today hasn't been a good day food-wise, but I guess i'll just blame it on the hangover and move on! :D Dawny, I know exactly what you mean about the Eurovision song contest, me and my friends organise a celebration night once a year when we watch the show, have lots of wine and food and generally have great fun with it! :D

Oh my , I am very proud of myself. I went to the store very hungary and out of points, so I was SO tempted to cheat and get a candy bar or chips or something like that, but I made it out with out anything, I am SO proud of myself. Willpower!

Now I did snack when I got home, but on better stuff then a candy bar with 18 grams of fat!

Sorry it's so short, but I have to take the trash out, lol

Hey all! :coffee:
Bella congrats on the NSV!! :cp: It really makes you feel proud of yourself, doesn't it? It proves again how much determined you are this time to succeed! Good for you! :)

Linda, you're so lucky you have another weekend away! It must be a little tough to stay on the plan while on holiday, but I know you'll manage! Have a great time hun!! :)

As for myself, I decided to put the bad days behind me and start afresh today. I'm really motivated, being in the challenge and all, and I really, really want to see a loss next Wednesday.I'll have some beef with veggies for lunch and possibly something lighter for dinner. Take care all and don't forget to post here!! :D

I see another new avatar! Melanie, very cute! Neglected to mention Natalie's cute dog as well a short while ago! My, we are a changing group!
Natalie... sounds like lots of fun, last night, but you've got to find a way to control the alcohol and it's points.... sounds like those hangovers aren't much fun, either. What about a wine spritzer? Have you heard of those? They take wine and mix it with seltzer and add a twist of lemon or lime. It's tasty if you use a blush wine of some kind. I order those in restaurants and I am still part of the crowd drinking, but not getting all those points! It's tasty as well, but each spritzer is about 1/2 the points of a full glass of wine. Try it! Ah, to be young as you are! I used to have hangovers in my early years, once in awhile, and now never drink all that much. To me, the "fun" of the evening before isn't worth how awful I feel later on! Time to get back on program and move along with that weight loss of yours! You've done so well, don't want to see any of those five angels for each five pounds disappear! Not scolding, just trying to spur you on a bit!
Just read Melanie's remarks and I see she also indicates a control of drinking at a later age.... we all learn and it takes time! I will rarely have more than two glasses of wine, if I have a third I never finish it. If I drink even one glass before dinner, I "feel" it and my body isn't happy with that feeling nowadays. Though, things always seem so much more funny and cheerful!
Yes, I will need those "good vibes" for the weekend, but this is not as much of a "summer fun" weekend, but a "work" weekend in a way. When you have a summer cottage in your family, one opens it in the spring for the season and one closes it in the fall (now) for the winter. It's a bittersweet time to be there, the leaves will have turned, foliage will be lovely, it will be cool and brisk. Dock and boats have to come out, we pack up foods, cleaning products and the like (anything that can freeze) and disconnect water, drain pipes and fill with antifreeze, etc. I clean everything and vacume. So, I guess I might earn a few activity points this weekend?
I am trying very hard to save up my flexpoints as well so that dining out tomorrow night will be ok for me. Plus, there will probably be the irresistable urge to "finish up" food that remains there while I am packing up?
I think I might do better this time. Keep your fingers crossed for me!
Melanie, Diet Rite cola has no sodium, if you can find it near you. It's not as tasty as diet Pepsi or diet Coke, but it's quite tolerable. Look for it, it's cheaper as well! By the way, have to ask in an "informal" survey.... do you like Pepsi or Coke better? Do you like Diet Pepsi or Diet Coke better?
I prefer Pepsi, reg and diet, my husband prefers Coke, won't touch diet! My daughter says regular Coke is better, but prefers diet Pepsi. My son is Coke, all the way, I guess.
Dawny, I see a difference right away on something you mentioned. An apple here is 1 point, and you say .5. So, there might be a few more differences.
Yes, we had the 1,2, 3 Success plan here, it was probably about three or four years ago, maybe?
So, you guys are a bit different and a bit "behind" (not meaning as a country, just in ww, of course!). Also, never heard of the Eurovision song thing.... hmmm??? Maybe we'd like it? Americans, on average, seem to have very "trashy" tv tastes lately, though. Reality tv is so populare. The only show I have enjoyed is The Osbornes, I think Ozzie is amazing and a riot, his family life is really something. But, it tops the list in terms of trasy tv, but the humor of it (think they put that on a bit?) was outstanding. I'm not much into watching reality tv, especially, and also not into watching violence, "naughty" things, etc. Most of the tv programming is something I am ashamed of these last few years in my country. Pretty sad thing, if you ask me, if that is a reflection of today's society.
Bella! Congrats on that NSV.... quite a good choice, you must be so proud. When you feel good about a choice like that, it makes making those choices so much easier down the road.
Sugar Cane, hope you are feeling better now? Also, did you post another thread for this new challenge? If so, can you share the URL for it?
Well, as for me, today will be an incredibly busy day. We got paid, thank goodness, down to an all time low this week! We only get paid 2X a month, the 1st and 15th and it seems to go in the first few days and then we pace ourselves until the next check. I hate it. Will put some items on e-bay to sell and help me get ready for Christmas shopping, I officially started today as well! Have to pace myself on that as well.
At any rate, have to pay bills, grocery shop, do laundry and get ready to go away. But, will also to a work out and all that beforehand.
So, had better get rolling!
Take care, will "chat" before we go away, no doubt, but if not I will be back Sunday afternoon!
Linda

Here it is:

http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/showthread.php?t=47284

:)

Here I am. Unmotivated me. :coffee: I’m tired. I wanna go back to sleep. But, since I’m at my desk, that probably wouldn’t work out well.

I got up about 15 minutes late this morning, but drug myself downstairs and put in a aerobics video. About 10 minutes in, I just turned it off. I really did not want to do it. I wanted a cup of coffee and 10 minutes just trying to wake up. So, that’s what I did. I feel kinda bad that I broke my excellent exercise record, but taking today off surely will not hurt me much. I might get in a walk later, but I really just don’t care to. It’s the kind of day when I would be content on the couch for 8 hours with classic movies. Too bad that’s not an option.

I’m gearing up for some fun tomorrow though. The first weekend of each October Hwy 63 (the 30 mile road between my hometown and current town) is targeted for incredible yardsales. It’s a very curvy road with hills, so it is referred to as Rollercoaster 63. There will be almost 30 miles of constant yard sales. It is a lot of fun and I always run into some people that I have not seen in years. I’m going to spend tonight at my dad’s house and head out with him and stepmom as the sun rises. We usually pace ourselves to be at the halfway point just as our favorite food stand gets the fried fish sandwiches ready to sale. :hungry: It’s usually the only thing I purchase during the outing! But, this year I will be looking for some pants that aren’t baggy and DH needs some winter shirts. Let the bargains begin!

Linda – I agree about most of the stuff that is on our boob tube now adays. There are a few shows that I regularly watch and some that I refuse to watch anymore. I love the Gilmore Girls, Survivor, and CSI. I kinda like Seventh Heaven, but it is bothersome to watch a show about a protestant minister and his family when the writers keep goofing with theology! I’m still trying to figure out why I like the Iron Chef and Househunters. Why would I want to watch a show about people buying a house? BTW, I am a dt. coke gal. Or Dt. Sunkist, or Dt. Big Red. Now that is yummy. The only way I enjoy Dt. Pepsi is with lemon or lime. I like the Dt. Rite flavored drinks, but really don’t like the regular.

Dawny – Thanks for the encouragement. I’m also baffled at only 18 points! You must really have to eat a lot of freebies! I have been told that US points are approximately 1 for every 50 calories (of coursing fiber and fat must be considered to be accurate). 18 points would only be 900 calories!! :dunno: There just has to be some differences in how the points are calculated. Sounds like you are doing fantastic on the treadmill. You have really built up to 30 min quickly! Good work! Now, if you could just build on the cooking skills. ;)

Bella – I join everyone else in congratulating you on the grocery run. I am still haunted by doughnuts past. That used to be my “treat”. I would get one yummy, horribly bad for me doughnut to eat when I got home. Once, I even hid it in my car so that DH wouldn’t criticize and went to get it when he left for work. It just didn’t taste as good with the guilt attached and that was the last one I got. But, they still call to me. I have to stand right next to the doughnut display when I buy my 2% cheese!

Natalie – How’s it going TODAY? This is the day you can work on. This is the day that counts!

Hee-hee: this smilie reminds me of Natalie: :hat:

Wherever are our Angelas? Ali?

FYI, for you moms on here: Check out the 3FC homepage and the updated article. There is one talking about children's nutrition and a free DVD you can get that is geared toward the kiddos. Just didn't want you to miss this!

Lol Mel, you're so right about the smilie! I even added it in my signature! :D Today is good, I feel motivated all over again since I bought a new pair of jeans (the one I tried on a couple of days ago). :) I'm happy today, hopefully I'll be able to maintain this feeling for a long time. Don't you just love editing your sig when you've lost weight? I look forward to doing this next week! How is everyone else??

Hi there, just a quick note from me today, its taken so long to read all the posts that I have no time to type!

Nat, glad I'm not the only one in the world enjoying the Eurovision song contest. Im sorry for the rest of you that don't see it. It's great fun for one night a year. Good luck with your new motivation, sounds as if you are back on track, stay away from the wine, although I have to admit I used to have a real problem staying away from it for long, not now though - not enough points most days to fit it in. Which brings me to the next point - I am going to be quick really - I can't imagine really having many more than 18 or 20 points per day to use now. I don't know what I'd eat. I think I'd manage if I was on a good night out, but on a normal day to day basis, it really does seem plenty. I think there must be alot of differences in the way the pts are calculated. Not sure how many pts equate to calories, but I'm sure they wouldn't give us as few as 900 per day. I worked out the other day that in a job like mine I would burn off 1000 cals aprox per day just loitering at work all day, so 900 wouldn't go far. I'd starve.

Linda, I do hope you have a great weekend, I know that alot of work will be involved, but it's still more fun that being at home.

Melanie, I'll look at the 'mom' page, thanks for that. Your energy levels will pick up soon I'm sure. Maybe done too much too soon? or..... not pregnant are you? No? Oh well, I'll live in hope of being an Auntie very soon!!!

I'll get off for now, have a great weekend all, I've had a good day, even turned down some scrummy scottish shortbread that a patient brought in for us, probably would have been about 5 pts per slice so thats my nsv for the day. See ya later.

Just a quick note. Wish me luck at the event tomorrow. I MUST have the fish sandwich, but I can probably avoid the homemade brownies, cakes, fried pies, oh, I have to stop now!!

Dawny - NO!!!!! I'm not!!!!!! :p Someday. Not now!!! I'm just going to decide it is the weather! Good work on avoiding the shortbread.

Well, gotta get traveling!

Have a great weekend, all!

Oh my what a day. I am SO worried about money problems, that i'm a ball of nerves. I just feel like crying. It's SO hard to stay on program. I just want to eat all the comfort foods! But I am staying on track food wise. I did get some icecream but it's only 6 points for a cup and after dinner I have 7 so I even have a point to spare. And the funny thing is, it's not that great! Not tasting as good as it had in the past.

Ok I just needed to vent, I may just curl up in bed tonight and cry, but if I can get through this week, I'll be ok, but it's going to be a horrible week!

Melanie, Good luck tomorrow. That is going to be a hard one for me as well when it's time to go to picnics. I have been living in my home because I am nervous about eating else where.

Natalie, I agree with you, I love the feeling of editing my sig showing a lower weight.

Well I'm sure I missed someone, and if I did, sorry. I'll try to catch up later.

TTFN

Hi its me, and its very early in the morning, to just checking in to see what I missed overnight.

Melanie, sorry, hope I didn't offend! You'll feel perky again very soon! I hope you have a good weekend, your 'do' sounds like fun, and could be full of yummy extra points, but sometimes, especially when the energy isn't what it should be, they come just at the right time. Have a good one.

Bella, oh dear, it sounds as if you are having some problems at the moment. When you are having other difficulties in your life, it can be hard to concentrate on the food side of things. Try to get through your money worries and you can get back on track with the points when you feel up to it. When you are really down, I think that even if you were right on points anyway, your body is just working to make you feel better and not working to help you lose weight. Maybe it will take you only a day or two to get on top of things, or maybe it will take longer, but don't worry, girl, we're all here for you when you need us, if you need to get something off of your chest you know where to find us.

Gotta go for now, back later,

Hi ya'll...

Melanie, thanks for askin'... i'm here, been lurking for the past couple of days.

went to wi yesterday. lost 00000.4. i know, i know it's a loss, better than a gain, blah blah blah, but right about now, my life needed better than that. guess we get what we get right?

this break up thing is starting to kick my butt. spent a few days in bed. (not eating, but not moving either) finally got up and got productive around wednesday evening and today got home from the office to find most of the apartment packed and basically just lost it. have alternated between crying and sleeping and just staring at the television. ignoring the phone, just feel frozen.

the x ordered pizza, but i only ate two slices (veggie) and it wasn't hard to stop. it's been easy to stay on program points wise, water wise, don't know who was talking about water but i love the stuff and it's all i drink. gave up coffee (no starbucks since 9-7-04 and if you knew how much i loved starbucks you'd be throwin a party), sodas, etc a while ago. maybe drink tea occasionally but hardly ever.

anyway, the 'strong, this is no big deal, i'm gonna be fine,' angela has taken leave and i'm having a 'moment'. thoughts and prayers would be appreciated.

i know i will bounce out of this. this is part of the grieving process. i know this in my head. my heart on the other hand is just having a bit of a hard time.

thanks for listening ...

Good morning everyone.....
Sounds like a few of us need a bit of encouragment? Melanie, it's OK if you didn't feel like working out. Somtimes you just need to rest and also, maybe this kind of working out and time of day are just not for you. You can find other ways and times, you really can. Don't beat yourself up!
Nat, good to see you are back on program!
Bella, I am totally right with you on the money thing.... don't know how we are doing to pay our bills in the next few months, but we BOTH will find a way! Hang in.... sell some stuff on e-bay that you can sacrifice. Shop at thrift stores and challenge yourself. We can do this! I am truly broke, yesterday was payday I wrote checks and paid bills, went grocery shopping, picked up the dry cleaning, ran a few other errends and didn't spend any money on extravagance, and am now out of cash and we don't get paid again until the 15th. Oh dear. But, I am strong and I hope my husband submits his expense report at the office and we get a couple of hundred dollars back to tide us over.
Angela, this too shall pass. As soon as her stuff is out and you are officially DONE with this time of your life, you will be able to move on. Time heals all wounds. Sounds like an old cliche', but it really is true.
Now, guys, I have to run, but did type a response to another post on the ww Core support board this morning. It totally "hit home" with me and I wrote it for me as well as for this other person. I cut and pasted it, below, and just felt really as if it was something I had to share. Of course, you must be familiar with the Star Wars movies to "get it".
Will be back tomorrow, will miss you all and try to post tomorrow evening, but maybe on Monday!
Linda
Here it is:
Use the Force!

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Janette, LJ, responded to you, not me. Neither she nor I can address your ultimate question. However, you must "use the force, Luke".... my Star Wars phrase for the week! The force, is a zenlike feeling that a person can achieve when they are working towards a goal. This force is kind of like hypnosis and allows us to walk away from the chocolate, walk away from the French Fries and choose better choices. This force gives us strength and courage to go through each and every day and add some activity.
You must ask yourself, are you TRULY satisfied with 166 vs. that written goal you have under your signature of 150? Have you consulted height and weight charts and do they say, for your height, that 166 is a good and healthy weight?
You must not allow the "dark side" to sway you into thinking that your body has "leveled off to a weight you should be at". You have lost water weight, some initial weight and here is the time for truly hard work and committment. You must use the force to take a serious look at what you have been eating. Journal, measure, work out, walking, parking the extra few spaces away at the end of the parking lot, taking the stairs, etc. The force is always with you, my dear. The dark side is forever there, lurking, and it can be like the devil in terms of swaying your thoughts.
May the force be with you all today!
Linda, using her "lightstick" to ward off the dark side from coming into her life
__________________

Good morning all, I'm not going to respond to anything much this morning as I feel a bit down on life. A bit stressed, a bit unhappy with DH today, and AJ is doing my head in the last couple of days with his little attitude to everything. My scales haven't moved and I don't feel that all is well with the world.

Moan over for now. Back later.

:grouphug: to Dawny. I hope you feel better soon! :)

Hi everyone!!

Bella, I am feeling for you girl! I get depressed sometimes and want to eat and eat....my favorite food to 'pig out' on is air popped popcorn. You can have 3 cups for 1 point! In fact, I have popped a huge bowl of it and ate it all by myself and still only spent 3 points! :) There is a website called Kernel Seasonings. They have very low cal toppings for popcorn including chocolate marshmallow and apple cinnamon...as well as white cheddar and bbq (there are tons of flavors to choose from!) I would purchase it from eBay though as you can find it cheaper there. :) I also have used it on other stuff like my oatmeal or to season potatoes or pasta. Very good stuff!

Angela, I am sorry to hear of your break up. Things will be better once you have separated yourself from her.

Over all it seems we all have the blues this week! Maybe it is the change of seasons? I am off to church and I will say a prayer for everyone! Have a wonderful day!

Hi all,

Well I'm still in a blaa mood, but my eating is right on! I'm very proud of myself for that, now if I can only get past this blue period I am in, I'll be doing great! Thanks for all the support, I really love the support I get here and don't know what I would do without it.

Thanks again,

Goodness, what's going on? Dawny, Bella, Angela, hope you all feel better emotionally.
Angie Wangie, good to see you back here. Natalie, how are you doing?
Just got back this afternoon from the lake. Boy are we tired. Had lots to do.
Last night and today I blew the rest of my flex points and I think a few extra..... think I am over by 3???? So, it's time to get back on track again.
I normally blow it on weekends away, but I think I did a tiny bit better than usual. Next weekend, is the Columbus Day weekend and we are going to my in laws, that will be more of a challenge as I have absolutely no control over what I will be served.
But, they have a "lap" pool in the lower lever of their home, I hope to do some swimming. My mother in law has had two hip replacement surgeries and when they built their retirement home, they put an inground heated pool into the bottom of the house. It's really "cool" to have something like this in one's own home. The doctor's told her to swim as often as she could, as it's no impact aerobics and no stress on her hip. They decided this would be best for her and just went for it!
At any rate, I think I had many activity points earned today, I really didn't track it all, but worked hard cleaning, packing up things, etc. Now, we are home and the cottage is winterized, even to the point of having antifreeze in the pipes, an all important thing here in New Hampshire. All perishables and liquids (even toothpaste and shampoo) are packed up and now boxed on shelves at my house. Sad to leave the place until next spring.
Wonder if I'll have a loss on Tuesday or a break even week?
Linda

Hey girls.
Seems like it's not a very good emotional time for most of you, I really hope you'll feel better very soon.:)
Linda- Glad to see you're back. You seem to generally have a good time at weekends, it's really nice that your in-laws have a pool, you should really take advantage of it!
I'm doing fine, I fought hard today and resisted sandwich cravings, I'm back on track for good. I weighed myself this morning just to check, and it seems that the scales are moving towards the right direction. I really hope to see a loss this week, to compensate for the gain last week.
Anyway, I'm off to sleep. Take care girls, I hope tomorrow you all feel much better! :) :)

Geez. It does seem like a gloom cloud is finding a lot of us. I have had a couple of hard days too. Finances is a big one. We live quite conservatively, only go out to dinner maybe once or twice a week to inexpensive places, and rent a movie once in a while, but it always comes close when I pay the bills. Of course, the growing pains of a new marriage. And Saturday I was getting upset looking for something to wear because I wanted to look nice and everything in my closet is either too big or a bit too tight. Of course, I'm glad I'm shrinking out of my clothes, but I'm tired of looking like a frump and not having the money to fix it. Well, just 10 more # and I will call in the wager my mom made for some new clothes. Until then, I'll just have to sinch up my belt and smile.

I spent hours cleaning my house today, instead of regulated exercise. Now, I'm exhausted and still see things that need to be done. I've made to do lists for me and DH. He always volunteers to help, but VERY often forgets. So, I put it in writing. :smug: We'll see.

Dawny - I wasn't offended at all. I thought it was quite cute. I know that the grace period has passed and I will start getting asked every other day when we are going to start having kids. It seems like the natural thing to do. But, it would be a lot less stressful if we wait a couple of years to pay off some bills first and just get to know each other and work on our communication skills. And, don't worry. We all know how much you love AJ and DH. Sometimes you just need to vent, so feel free. I give you permission to lock yourself in the bathroom with a bubble bath!

Angela - I had several breakups before the actual marriage. I know the hurt. I also know it will pass - not as soon as you would like, but once it starts, it will be a bit better each day. I would have 5 minutes without thinking about it, then 10, etc. You are in my prayers. As you said, you know .4 is good - especially considering what you are going through. Remember, you are doing this for you and that is a good thing. And, when you feel up to it, exercise is a good emotional treatment. I was mad at DH Saturday. He called during my workout and I was actually crying as I started the tape back. By the time it ended, I felt much better and proud that I had done something good for myself.

Linda - I think I will stick with my morning tapes for a while longer. I believe it does work pretty well for me. I was just having a bratty day and didn't want to do it. Swim a few laps for me too! I love swimming. Maybe I can get away sometime this winter to a hotel with a indoor pool. That would be heavenly. I'm thinking of taking a vacation day around Thanksgiving so I will have a nice, long break next month. Even if I just use it to stay home, it will be good. I used a lot of my days around the wedding in March, so I would love a break.

I did pretty well with my food this weekend. Staying even one night at my dad's house is a challenge. His wife likes to cook with lots of butter and oil, so I had to eat very little of it. I did have the fish sandwich I was looking forward to and passed up the other goodies, so I think it went well.

Found evidence of a mouse in the house today when I was cleaning. NOT happy about that. I told DH he would do whatever necessary to get rid of it NOW! They give me the creaps, but mostly, I just can't stand the thoughts of a rodent being in my kitchen!!

Well, I'm going to get toward the bed now. Morning will come early. I will lift up a prayer that we all wake up with a smile tomorrow!

Good morning. Sorry about the whinge yesterday. I was feeling really bad. I feel a bit better this morning, although not there completely. AJ has been having lots of tantrums lately and it really takes it out of me. I think it won't be as bad on his nursery days, but I find when I collect him that he's been naughty there too, so it winds me up as soon as I see him. Then DH and I fight about how to handle him, and that usually leads from one thing to another, as usual. We have not been great ever since we had AJ, no time for just the two of us I expect, and the little bit of time we do get never seems long enough. I feel that its just a 'blip', but I do sometimes wonder if we can go on forever like this. It's our anniversary for 12 years next sunday, and MIL is having AJ overnight, giving us chance to go out. We hardly ever do these days, and it will be nice to have a few hours, but I will still miss AJ. Its TOM at the moment, so obviously this isn't helping matters emotionally much. There's always something isn't there.
Foodwise, not doing too bad. I have to admit that saturday and sunday I went over the 18 points a bit. But I figure that being only .5 under the 140 pound limit, that it probably won't make much difference just yet, I'll have to be careful now though, before WI on wednesday. I'm thinking of trying to make some nil point soup later. I have never made soup in my life, but I feel the need to cook. Now I know that doesn't sound like me, and it isn't, but now the colder weather is kicking in, some warming soup sounds very comforting. How it will come out who knows, but I'll keep you posted. If I don't poison all involved that is!

I think a few people have been a bit sad the last few days, and I hope that other spirits are now starting to lift too.

Linda, glad you had a good clean-up this weekend. At least you don't have to think or worry about the place for a while now. The pool sounds lovely. Oh, for the chance to have something like that at home, just a dream to most of us I think, eh?

Melanie, a mouse!!! eeeeeek!!! I hope that by the time you read this that you have the little minx caught. I'll send you my little cat to sort it out! Not that she would probably do anything, probably just look at it, and fall asleep. Not much use my little moggy!!!

Anyway, AJ is plaguing me to get the playdough out, he's still his pyjamas but that means nothing to him! I'll be back later,

Well, it's Monday.... here we are. Mondays are good days to begin afresh, right? So, let's all do that, physically, foodwise and emotinoally? Seems like we all have had our share of a few ups and downs?
Melanie, don't have a baby until you've had time to have some fun as well, it's not all about paying off bills (believe me that they will ALWAYS be there until you win the lottery, and I sure haven't). Mark and I did some travellling before we had our kids. We went to Jamaica, to Martinique and did a few really wonderful things that we couldn't do with kids. We had some great, carefree, times together and it solidified our marriage. We do fight about bringing up the kids and money.... seems like those are the most common things to fight about? But, one has to try to compromise and the first couple of years in a marriage about truly about learning that, on both sides. Boy, I have had to bite my tongue a few times and just keep the peace, believe me!
Well, off I go to another quilt meeting today. Another challege for me, for sure.
I am going to stay away from all the food, am bringing a bag of sliced apples and some 94%ff popcorn with me..... just HAVE to be good.
Well, gotta go hit the shower and get moving.
Keep your chins up ladies,
Linda

Just a quick note...

Wanted to thank all of you for your thoughts and kind words...

Also wanted to let you know all of you have been in my prayers as well. Hope everyone starts to feel a bit better. Maybe it's in the water ; )

Today is THE DAY. The movers come at 9 a.m. I'll be at the office (on purpose). I intentionally put off a project deadline that is due TODAY so I will be scrambling around this morning to get it in. I will be stressed but it's the kind of stress I thrive on and do well with. I know, I'm a nut, but whatever works, right?

Dawny, kiss AJ - he'll be grown and gone before you know it!
Linda - swim, swim, swim (and I'd be interested to know what kinds of things you sell on e-bay, I happen to be addicted - if you say your quilts, we may have a deal)
Melanie - you always have such kind words, thank you!
Natalie - keep up the good work, resist those cravings!!!
Bella - come feel mo' bettah' with me, k? : )

ok ladies, ya'll be good!!

HI, just wanted to say I think I've worked off some of my 'bad' feelings this morning. Done a couple of hours ironing - with several more to go (not today though, couldn't bare any more!)and I actually made some soup, and It's nice. I feel as if I have really achieved something, and it wasn't even that hard! For those that don't already know, my cooking skills are zero, and how I've made it to the grand old age of 35 without any is a miracle in itself. I'm going to freeze some of the soup and maybe take some to work. And its no points. Even better.

Linda, You are perfectly right in your comments to Melanie about babies, marriage and living a little. We waited 9 years before starting a family, and I'm glad I did. I just wish that alot of things hadn't changed about our relationship when the baby came along. I can't understand the couples who think that having a child will solve any problems that they already have. If I had been in that position, then I think I would have been a divorced woman long ago. My little problems will resolve themselves I think, and like you said, biting my tongue a bit to keep the peace may just help matters along a little bit quicker!!!

Angela. So the day of reckoning has finally arrived. It will be a tough one for you, especially when you get home to an empty house. But consider it to be the first day of the rest of your life. Get down to that gym again, work up a sweat, it won't take the problems away, but it might at least take your mind off them for a bit, and when those endorphins kick in, you might even feel a little bit better for it too. Thanks for the note about AJ, I will give him a HUGE kiss and hug. You are right, he'll be grown and gone before I know it.

Ok off again for now, need to do a jigsaw puzzle with AJ. And the treadmill is calling, very quietly anyway!!!

:chef: Dawny! Cooking!?!? :faint: [getting up off the floor] I'm so proud of you! The 0 pt soup is yummy! DH would like for me to make it every week.

Linda - I'm going to try the Taco Soup tonight. I looked over the recipe last night and I have a question. Do you drain the cans of tomatos, corn, beans? If so, do you add other liquid? Thanks!

Linda - nevermind about the recipe. I added a little water and it was VERY good. DH sends his thanks for the recipe!

Have a good night everyone!

Actually, guys, I have HAD that recipe, but not made it myself, so I guess my advice would be to use your judgement. If Dawny (wow, cooking!) added water, then my guess would be to not drain everything? I loved it when I had it. It's not 0 point, though, it's one point per serving, but still a good one!
Angela, I doubt you will be bidding on this one e-bay item!
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2492742319
We decided to part with our boat.... we don't get much time to use it and the money will really come in handy right now. We want to get a slightly smaller boat anyway.
Well, this morning is weigh in. I did weigh myself a few minutes ago, fully dressed as I will be when I weigh in. Not sure if I'll have a loss, break even or what! We'll see.
So hard with weekends away. Plus, I blew it last night, temptation got the best of me. I was going to have an innocent "core" baked potato, but made homemade corn bread for the rest of the family. The smell of it was so good, I trashed the potato and ate two pieces at 3 points each. Whoops!
So, it's no one else's fault but mine if I don't have a good weigh in..... but I was pretty good the rest of the week, other than Saturday night. So, maybe I've balanced it all off a bit?
Will post later and let you guys know!
Linda

One more thing, Angela, I don't really sell my quilts - just make them for my family and charity. When I make a "normal" quilt for the family, etc., it takes me about 2 -3 years to finish it. They are all hand made and very special.
I have had craft items on sale, in the past, at consignment shops, but haven't ever thought of selling quilts on e-bay as the photos wouldn't do them justice. People seem to always want "bargains" on e-bay, as well, and with the time, effort and expense that goes into one of my quilts, I would have to expect a fortune, which people are not willing to pay!
Some quilters mass produce quilts but they are all machine done and not of the "quality" (not meaning to be snobby about my work at all, just talking about the kind of work that is done on some vs. others) as other quilts.
You should try making your own one day, it's very relaxing work and also it keeps your hands busy so you aren't raiding the refrigerator!
Linda

Hi all,

Thanks for the kind words! It really does help that I have some one on my side. I am in a great mood today, it started yesterday and has been gettng better. I also had wi and am down 2.2lbs. So that helped!

Linda, My aunt hand makes quilts and they are great. I love them. She, like you, puts in the effort to do them by hand and it takes her a LONG time to do a family quilt. But the result is well worth the effort. She gives them away and dontates them for quilt raffles and stuff. I have started 2 quilts and both are unfinished at the time being, lol.

Angela, glad your in a better mood as well. And i am there with you on the ebay thing. I LOVE to get stuff of ebay.

Dawny, Great job on the soup.

Ok, well I am off for now, and in a MUCH better mood!

Blessings,

Linda - step away from the cornbread! :nono: Did it show up to haunt you at WI? Hope not. I meant to make RF rolls to go with the soup last night, but remembered at the end. I was too busy baking cookies. I found a LF chocolate chip cookie recipe (1pt each). I was soooo mad at DH. I had at least 12 left when I went to work yesterday. I did not have my chocolate snack at work b/c I was looking forward to going home and having a cookie. THEY WERE ALL GONE!! Little :ink . He claimed to have shared them with my landlord's wife, but I happen to know that she is doing WW also and only had maybe 2. I made him go buy more brown sugar so I could make another batch. On the bright side, I know he enjoys my cooking.

Dawny - I will see if DH will let me fly over to borrow the kitty! :yes: Sounds like a great idea to me. Actually, (stomach turning) one disqusting mouse has been "disposed" of. I am being told they always show up in pairs, so I'm still waiting. It is soooo gross. BTW - hope AJ has started exchanged the horns for a halo!

Bella - Great WI!! I am not looking forward to mine tomorrow. I've been pretty good with my eating and exercise, but energy just hasn't been up and TOM has arrived. The scale just doesn't seem to be moving in the right direction. But, I have been surprised before. And, if it is just TOM, it should go down next week. It sounds like we are equally crafty. I love starting projects, but then they never seem to get done. I have determined that I will learn to quilt one day. One of my best memories (creating some of my prized possessions) is my grandmother making quilts. I want my kids/grandkids to see that too. But, for now, I type too much all day, every day. My hands won't work right when I do sewing in the evenings too. I had to give up my crocheting. Luckily, I got my neice's baby blanket done first.

I finally bought my 5# dumbbells that I needed. I plan to have a home gym $10 at a time!

Hi there, thanks for the 'soup' encouragement. Both DH and I took some for lunch at work today, and it was very nice. I glad I finally made the effort and tried something different for a change. And healthy too.

Linda, hope the WI went ok. Some weeks its really hard to tell if you're going to get a loss or not. Other weeks you can be really optimistic and know for sure that you've done well. Oh well, this weight loss thing was never meant to be easy. So you are selling the boat then. It's a shame, I bet you will miss it on your vacations, but sometimes, needs must, and you gotta do what you gotta do. Hope you get a good price, like you said, you never can tell on ebay.

Bella, you are doing so well at the moment. congrats on this weeks loss, you must be really proud and DH must be eating his words!

Melanie, maybe the mouse ate the cookies!!!? Doubt it though, DH definitely sounds the most likely culprit. At least you got rid of the little rascal - mousey, not DH!!! - and I really do hope that there are no more. You can borrow my Pipkin-cat anytime you like! She makes a good ornament if nothing else.
I have some little dumbells at home too, they aren't very heavy but they do the job once in a while. better than cans of beans anytime!

Oh well, time to go and see some other web stuff - I'm investigating our nextdoor neightbours house which has just gone up for sale, and I'm interested (or maybe just nosey) to know how much they are selling at. House prices are rocketing over here, you are lucky to be able to move house and buy anything any better in a reasonable price range anymore. Day off and WI tomorrow, so I'll be back!

Well..... here I am. I gained 1.2 pounds. Not much to say, weird for me.
Will be back later on. Really unhappy with myself.
I am giving up Core and going back to flexpoints, for sure, now.
Linda

Gee, Linda. I'm sorry about the WI. :( Maybe it is just a bad week. Too much water in the system or something. Maybe going back to FPs will be good for you. Go ahead. Wallow and be upset. Then, start over. You can definately do this. You are worth it and I'm glad to be here with ya! If you're still irked, I suggest you take it out on the treadmill!

Dawny - The Cookie Moster was definately DH. Good thing for him, they are LF! But, he did try to set the mouse trap with a cookie. Little rascle just ate the cookie and left, so he finally got him with part of a fruit rollup. Whatever happened to cheese? :mouse:

Ya know, I think I have an addiction to you guys! I can't stay away! I'm supposed to be working! Bye-bye!

Thanks, Melanie. I have to admit I am feeling pretty low. I am totally not giving up, just mad at myself. What am I to do, as we are going away again this weekend. I shall have to work harder, yet I almost feel like I can't possibly work harder than I have been already. There must be some magic secret that will work fo me? I shall continue to strive for it.
Linda

Hang in there Linda! The best part is you can do either Flex or Core. Maybe it would be good for you to 'shake it up' a bit. I try to have high calorie then low calorie days. I seem to get more loss when I fluctuate and not keep the same routine. Try flex a week or two and then go back to Core again! :D

Hey guys.
Linda, I'm really sorry to hear that you had a gain. Please, don't be too discouraged. Maybe it's a better idea to change to flexpoints again, perhaps the core plan wasn't working for you, say that you tried it on and didn't suit you, and now you're back on plan. And, I don't know if you're doing ok there, but be sure to drink a lot of water! I hope you're feeling better as tomorrow is a new day. I look forward to hearing from you again. :)

As for me, I'm totally exhausted right now and ready to go to sleep. My WI is tomorrow but right now I couldn't care less cos TOM has arrived and I'm just terrified of fainting again. :( Anyway, I'd better get some sleep and hope for the best. Take care girls.

I'm so fed up. I weighed myself this morning and I'm up 0.6 pounds. :( I just can't believe it. I know it's probably TOM who's causing it but I'm so frustrated right now. I desperately wanted to see a loss this week, I gained last week as well, and now again... I think I'll stuff myself today out of frustration and anger. Oh, and imagine this: I was sad after my WI and I'm sitting in the kitchen eating some Special K with milk. I'm watching a morning show and the star signs woman comes up with the daily horoscopes. And I hear her say: "As for you Librarians (I'm a Libra), be careful not to gain weight, especially those of you who have lost some." :eek: I nearly dropped my spoon!!!!! And I don't even believe in star signs.
I'm feeling quite terrible today, I'm in pain and I'm just soooooooo mad at the scales and so frustrated with myself. Hope you're feeling better. Take care.

Boy, Natalie, sounds like a few of us are going through a rough spell. When it is TOM, though, a minor gain like that is usually quite temporary. For me, as the TOM hasn't happened since last May, or so, can't blame it all that anymore! Darn! Though, quite honestly, I hear of some women who suddenly will just start back up again and then stop. So, always "prepared" to some degree, just in case.
At any rate, I'm mad at myself too, Natalie, but have a defeated and "resigned" attitude this morning, which could be dangerous.
We all have our ups and downs with this stuff. I have to realize that I am not going to lose this war, just a little battle. I almost gave thought, which is really, really dangerous, of taking time off from my weight loss plan.... at least until the weekend is over with. Then, I would go back on full force. Not really contemplating that, but I won't really have much choice this weekend. It's my MIL's (mother in law) birthday, we are going down to Rhode Island and staying at their home. I asked if I could bring something and the request was for my special carrot cake, which is probably about 40 points for a slice!
I figured I would try to go through this entire week without using any flexpoints, or as little as possible. But, there will be appetizers, drinks, good food, family and some emotional stuff as my FIL just found out he has cancer and we are dreading more news that will come forth this weekend, we think.
So, with all of this emotional stuff heading my way as well as a family get-together, and me feeling discouraged and low..... well, it's just a hard week.
But, this is my time to be NEEDING you guys and to be NEEDING my knowledge that I have learned at ww meetings. I am "armed" with those things, being quite aware of what emotions and family gatherings and weekends away can bring.
So, here I am "thinking".
In the meantime, I have a very busy day ahead, so off I go...
Linda

Oh dearie dearie dear, this is not a good time at the moment is it? Don't worry about TOM Nat, He's visiting me too at the mo, and I'm not expecting a good WI later today either. I just hope you have a better time than you did last month, and don't feel quite as poorly. Keep perky and eat chocolate - works every time!

Linda, I feel for you at the moment, I really do. I also know that when you feel rubbish after a gain that whatever I say will probably not help too much, but here goes anyway. You know about WW. You know how it works. You also know how well you've done so far and how it could be damaged if you completely took a few days off. Please don't concentrate on whats happened too deeply. If you know what happened then don't beat yourself up over it, just learn from it. You know the plan works, and if flex seems to work better for you then just do it. You'll have a tough weekend coming up no matter what, all you can do when you are visiting the MIL, is try to track what you have at other meals, such as breakfast, try not to snack too much inbetween, and then if you have a little blowout later in the day, it won't be as dangerous. If you don't do as well as you would have liked, then we'll be here to help pick up the pieces when you return. You know that. Like you said, remember everything that you know is true, and if you have to turn down something that looks too yummy to miss,then so be it. Sometimes you have to think of yourself, and if you are a bit down, it will be easier to eat the things that you wouldn't usually have. Just be careful, enjoy yourself, and deal with things later - but don't give up before you even get there in anticipation of a hard weekend. I know that probably all sounds a load of waffle, but I don't want all your hard work go to waste. Lecture over.

By the way, I had a nsv the other day that I forgot to mention. I bought a new top, for the weekend when we go out for our anniversary. I tried it on, the usual size, and it fit. Good so far. Even better when I got to the counter to pay and it was actually a size smaller than I thought. The size on the hanger was different to the size on the garment, and in the right direction for a change. The urge to squeal at the cashpoint was very hard to resist (I didn't though)and I was well 'chuffed'. About time a smaller size kicked in. Has anyone else had any nsv's lately, I think it could cheer us all up to hear about a few.I reckon we need all the help we can get at the moment.

Melanie, I can't believe DH used a cookie on the mousetrap, they must have been very good though if the mouse ate one too. I know something, it's a good thing I don't have internet access at work, otherwise I would not be able to drag myself away from you guys at all. I check in at every opportunity, and I would never get any work done. Oh good grief, the postman has just been, brought some junk mail from a local opticians. It would be ok, but when I work for one, it's a complete waste of good paper. It will be straight in my recycle bag with the rest of the junk.

Well I think I will get some lunch now, and collect some dry cleaning for DH. My sister has just visited and we've been talking tummy tucks, now that we've both lost a good amount of weight. I think in a couple of years time we could be in the next hospital rooms. (when we've saved up!)

Gotta go for now, back later as always. Take care all.

Dawny – You are so wise. It is hard to not let ourselves stay down when we find ourselves floored by a gain. Especially, when those yummy treats are right in front of us. But, we cannot allow it if we are going to have victory. A TUCK, huh? I’ve contemplated that myself. I had better start saving my pocket change now! I am nervous that I won’t tone up enough while losing weight and have some flop hanging around. Ew. DH and I both agree that it would be well worth the funds. However, if we do contemplate children around that time, I believe I would wait and take care of it after that body trauma!

Natalie – Sorry about the little gain. But, TOM is a mean old fella. I’m expecting a little gain or stay the same tonight too. It will be hard to accept, I know, but I expect it will leave both of us next week.

What is it with TOM??? I have heard that pheromones can cause women who spend a lot of time together to get on the same cycle; but on the internet??? It has snagged 3 of us at the same time! :lol:

Dawny - congats on the NSV! Let’s see… have I had one? Yes, last weekend my step-mother constantly said how proud she was of me for losing the weight and her sister kept calling me skinny. I have gone through my winter wardrobe and find that almost everything is too big. Although that’s NSV, it doesn’t feel like it when I try to get dressed! DH tells me that I’m getting my curves back and talks about how much more fun it is to hug me. He doesn’t have to reach as far around!

Well, gotta run. I’ll check back in later!

Hi, well its about 1/2 hour till WI, and maybe I could be in for a tiny loss, my scales say maybe .5, but we'll find out soon enough. I'm taking AJ with me (DH at work still) so I won't be staying to the meeting, I very rarely miss a meeting, so it will feel very strange. I will depending on you guys for the motivation that my leader won't be able to give me this week. Although, lets face it, who could need more motivation than we get on here anyway!!!

Melanie, hi there, yeah, strange this TOM thing, huh? At least we can all moan at the same time and get it out of the way for the rest of the month! Like your NSV too. Skinny is a word I love to hear - don't hear enough of it, mind you, but cheers me up every time! Great you are 'growing' curves too. There's nothing worse than having to persuade your DH that he needs to grow longer arms! Been there, done that! One thing that I find amazing still, is being in the shower and being able to 'easily' see my toes without toppling over! Its a gradual thing, but nice - very nice - when it's noticed.

well, better go and face the moment of truth. If I don't get back on tonight, I'll post results tomorrow night after work. See ya soon.

Hi, well just time to report in, 1 pound down and very pleased about it too. :cb:

I have to say I'm quite surprised as usual, but yes, I'm going to go and pig out now, :ink: and yes, I'll probably put the pound straight back on again.

That means only 12.5 to reach goal. yippeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee! :cheer:

Only thing is, why do I feel so guilty? I will share my pound with each of you that didn't lose this week. In fact, you can have it all.

Bye for now.

:angel: Dawny - you are sooo sweet. Good job on the 1#. For now, I say keep it for yourself (though I may change my mind when I WI!) Sorry you had to miss the meeting. But, I'll be here all week!

Quick report!!!! Gotta tell!!!! Lost 1.2# tonight. When will I ever learn to trust the points!?!?! I totally expected a TOM gain. That means over 40 lost!

Sorry, for those who didn't lose this week. Really. Don't mean to be a brat, but take heart. I know you will be saying these words next week. :yes:

Gonna put another dancer on my signature and sign off for the night.

Great job on the losses, guys! I have been having problems with my server, logging on , etc. and can't access my e-mail at all right now. Will have to call them later on today (have a meeting this morning) to see what is going on if it isn't fixed. They could be doing maintenance or something?
I used 4 flexpoints in the end yesterday.... all these meetings I keep having are throwing me off. But, I really worked hard to have a low point lunch yesterday to balance off the butterscotch muffin at the meeting. My resistance is low?
Maybe I am cycling with all you TOM people, even if nothing really happens? I have heard that women who spend time together often have their cycles adjust, I think it's true and really a strange thing! Jamie (before mine stopped) and I used to get ours on the exact same day every month for awhile, until I started getting really "off" and then stopped.
By they way, Jamie had a gain this week as well.
The long weight loss journey has it's peaks and valleys.... I'm in a valley right now, some of you are peaking and I am so happy for you! I can get there as well, but probably not this week?
Linda

Melanie, congrats on the loss!! Well done! :bravo: I bet you're excited, good for you girl! :)

Dawny, I'll take your pound if noone else is interested! :p No really, congrats to you too for the loss!!:bravo:

Linda, I'm sorry to hear that Jamie had a gain this week as well, but you know if we three had a gain this week, then maybe next week we three have a loss. (I wish...)

I must have used 200 points yesterday, I was in frame of mind where I thought I'm gaining anyway, so I might as well enjoy it! :shrug: I'm back on track again today but I still feel a little disappointed and totally discouraged about next week's WI. Hopefully with TOM gone I'll be able to see even a minor loss.
Anyway, gotta run. Take care girls!! :)

Good job to all the loosers! And I'm sure the scale will turn around for all those who are being visited by TOM. That scares me. I usually gain during that time and I so don't want a gain! For me TOM is due at any time now.

I have to go to the docs either today or tomorrow. My shoulder is in a LOT of pain for some reason and has been for about 6mths (just got very worse in the last week) and my fingers are also swelling on that side, so I suppose I should get it checked.

Other then that, things are pretty much the same, I have applied for a couple jobs (i currently do home daycare but it's not working out) so we'll see where that takes me.

Well, you all have a great day,
TTFN

Greetings! Hello all! What a wonderful morning! :twirly: The boss is away, so the supervisor is giving us all an hour off to play this week. I took mine this morning and slept in! The sun was actually shining when I got up at 7a. :sunny: Did my toning video. :strong: Got breakfast from McD. :mcd: I think I will go to the consignment shop a few doors down on my lunch break and see if I can find a couple of shirts that fit to hold me over until my big shopping trip next month! Wow. That 1.2# sure has made me feel healthier (after I found out it was gone :D ).

Linda – sorry to hear about Jamie’s gain too. I hope she is still focused. Are the school lunches working out? I’m sure you will be okay this weekend. Just be determined that you will be OP this week and you can make it work. I’m going to my mother’s Saturday. She is a hairdresser, so I get freebies. I’m getting my color done and possibly a body perm. Not sure about the perm yet. DH is opposed, but I think it will look good. I get bored with my hair very quickly.

Natalie – Thanks for the congratulations. I’m sure it will be you next week. You just can’t let a gain get you down. I get the same attitude as you though. If I think I’m doing badly, I say “why not?” But, if I look down, I can remember why not. I WANT TO SEE MY FEET! :rofl:

Bella – Hope the doc visit goes well. I also hope you see something you like when the weigh you in! Let us know how it goes. Good luck with the job hunt. DH is looking for something new. He mostly enjoys his job as photojournalist for the local paper. It is a cool job. But, he just isn’t making enough there to stay and there isn’t much hope that he will. So, it looks like it will be factory work. Hopefully, that will be temporary until we can get out of debt! Ew. 4-letter word!

As a part of DH’s job, he is going up in a hot air balloon tomorrow. I’m deathly afraid of heights. I would like to go with him, but I just know that I will be freaking out the entire time. :( What do you think? I hate to miss out, but I don’t want to be miserable either.

Well, I’m going to go spread the sunshine that is me to others! :hyper: Have a great OP day!

Hi everyone, I still don't feel that the mood has lifted too much in general you guys. To all you who didn't have a loss this week, just stay positive - it will happen.

Melanie, you did have a loss, and that is fab. You've almost caught me up now with your losses - I'm on 43 down now - and you can almost get your shopping trip with mom booked anytime now. Isn't it great to get an extra while in bed on a work day. I would love it. Actually, I'm going in late tomorrow, the boss is also off, he doesn't know it yet, but I've booked a trip to the hairdressers first thing. Don't know what I'm having done yet, but I'm growing it, and don't want much cutting off - at least I don't think so. We'll see what she says tomorrow. She's a great hairdresser but so expensive that I make sure I get my money's worth with all the advice and freebies I can get. I can't really afford it at the moment, but as we are going out Saturday, thought it was time to treat myself. We hardly ever go out, seems ages since the last time, (hard to get babysitters at the moment) so we will make the most of the times we do get to enjoy our time alone. The hot air balloon trip sounds fab. Just my kind of thing. I can understand the heights fear though. I'm ok, but DH hates them. If you do decide to go, just keep looking into the distance rather than straight down, it would be a great experience. I'll take your place if you don't fancy it!

Linda, keep going girl, I know you can do it. You seem quite down on your weightloss journey at the moment. But you know you can do it too. Put some of your energies into keeping Jamie going, and I'm sure it will help you along too. Maybe you need to have a rethink of your typical daily menus, maybe a change of some kind would give you a boost. Sometimes just a change for a few days of what you might usually have for breakfast for example can be enough to give that metabolism a kick up the butt. Good luck, we're here for you.

Bella, hope your shoulder gets some relief from your visit to the doc. I don't do pain. Never been my thing! Good luck too with the job search. It can take a while to find something you enjoy, but it's out there somewhere for you.

Natalie, cheer up. you are fine, Keep journalling, don't miss anything off, not even one teeny weeny glass of wine, and it will help get going again. It can be hard after a few 'off days', but I have faith.

Oh well, time to go again, back tomorrow, be good, don't eat too much, and cheer up everyone. Be positive. Smile. It always makes you feel better!

:cloud9: The most fun thing ever!! I went to the consignment shop next door. Didn't buy anything, but put on a size 16 jean without even holding my breath!!!!! That is 4 sizes down (5 if you consider that I was busting out of my 20 jeans :sssh: )!!! I haven't done that in YEARS! I thought I would cry leaving the dressing room! I know that seems large to most, but I felt tiny standing there! I looked on the "plus size" rack, and everything was too large b/c they consider 16 "regular size". (love those people) It was overwhelming to know I didn't have to go to the little rack in the back of the store! For once, someone considers me normal!! I hope everyone had a NSV that wonderful very soon!

Love to all.

Melanie, it made me very happy to read about your NSV!
Well, everyone, I stopped myself from a major league point fest this morning. I was in one of those moods that I may as well be "bad" all week seeing as we are going away this coming weekend and I already gained.... plus, I've not been feeling well these last few days, so haven't worked out, either.
I took the apple tart that I had been given as a "gift" out of the freezer this morning to bring to my quilt meeting..... figured I'd share the calories and go for it, but only have a "small" piece. Then, I got scared and angry at myself, ran out and put it BACK in the freezer (yes, an NSV!) and popped an Ultra Slim Fast Bar (2 points) in my purse, which is what I had. Without working out, though, I am going over my points for the day, but certainly not as badly as I would have if I had not re-frozen that tart!
So, guess I have not totally given up!
But, this weekend looms ahead and I know I'll be having extra points no matter what.
Not on core now, am on flexpoints and I am journalling, at least!
Linda

Linda - I hope you realize how proud of yourself you should be!!! Putting that tart back in the fridge was a MAJOR NSV. It was a declaration that you are not beaten, you are still fighting! I'm happy for you. Of course, some things will be out of your control this weekend, but you can take control of your portions. Just remember that you control the food, not the food controling you. You decide when to put the fork down. Just like today. You can get through this.

I hope you feel better soon and can get back to exercising. I feel like a total frump when I don't workout now. It's a great offensive mood. (Yes, I'm in battle mode!) Call out the troops (treadmill & weights) Put on your battle gear (sweats) and Prepare for victory! (are you picturing yourself charging the doughnut field?)

Good night everyone!

Thanks, Melanie. I am feeling a bit better this morning, at least. My body is not aching and my lymph glands are not as swollen, and my throat is not sore! So I am fighting off this little "infection" I've had this week, I hope! I think I will get on the treadmill, but not do my body sculpting today. I might walk easily on the treadmill vs. my usual fast pace? We'll see.
I have felt like I was overpowered this week. Between being somewhat ill and having the gain, I was walking in someone else's shoes in a way. I'm a bit more "me" today, but not still up to my usual activity level, etc.
Have to run up to the school now and drop off a project Jamie made that was due today and she forgot to bring to school - oh well.
Hope everyone is doing well today. I hope to have a much better day myself!
Linda

Linda, hi, glad you are feeling just a little bit better in yourself now, I didn't know you had been a bit poorly too. Go and enjoy your weekend, we'll pick up the pieces with you next week. I'm proud of you and your 'tart' too. It's a tough decision to put one away once it's already out, but you did it, great nsv.

Melanie, another nsv for you too. I like that one, smaller size clothes always go down well with me. Our clothes sizes are very different to yours in the US, a size 20 to 16 here would only be down 2 sizes, and our very smallest size available is probably a 6, for some adolescent skinny girl only. I'm in a 14 now, or maybe a 12 if you count my nsv with the new top the other day, I can't remember ever in my life being a 12 before, so I'm very proud.

Gotta go now, AJ needs sweeties. See ya later

Thanks, guys. This afternoon I am feeling even better. This is the first day this week that I've not been miserable with aches, pains and whatever. Was beginning to worry a bit. Hard to be positive when you just aren't feeling well.
I jotted down a recipe at my ww meeting this week and tossed it together to go with my lunch. It was really quite good and satisfying.... will share it with you all. Dawny, I don't know if you will have all the same ingredients, but you might find something similar?
I was sceptical, but it was actually quite good.

FIVE CAN SOUP:
One can white corn, drained
1 can black beans, drained
1 can veg-all, drained (I used Libbys mixed veggies as Veg-all wasn't in my store)
1 can Progresso Minestrone Soup
1 Can diced tomatoes, not drained

Just open the cans and put them all together, heat and stir. It's instant soup, thick and hearty! One cup = one point. If you are on the WW Core plan, it's all core and no points!

Made me feel full!
Linda

Just me again... a quick post as I have to get ready to leave for our trip, pack and all that stuff! Talk to you guys soon!
Linda

Good morning all, well its almost afternoon here but you guys are probably just waking up!

Linda thanks for the recipe, sounds good, Not sure what black beans or white corn are, but I may be able to think of something. Glad you are feeling better now. :flow2:

I have just had the complete opposite of an NSV - a failure!!! :shrug: I have been saving points like mad so I have some spare to use when we go out tonight, so I can enjoy myself and not have to be too restricted on what I choose off the menu, but AJ just left half of an enormous double chocolate muffin, and did I throw it away? What do you think? It just went straight in my mouth. :cbg: Yes, It was wonderful, no idea how many points it might have been, but I've blown the day. I'm just hoping that maybe, just maybe, one blow out day, which I haven't had for a long time, may end up giving the metabolism a bit of a boost instead of recking it completely. No point worrying about it now. Its done, and I enjoyed it, the guilt is there, but what's the point? It's entering my tummy cavity as we speak, and the fat content is going on my hips, but it's my twelfth wedding anniversary tomorrow, so I'm allowed occasionally aren't I? :cheers:

Oh well, got that off my chest, hope you all have a great weekend, back soon.

Yup, Dawny. Just got out of bed. But, I slept in today and then spent an hour just hanging out with DH talking. I'm in high spirits and ready for a wonderul day. I'm going to drive to my mother's soon for a new hairdo and she promised to buy me a few clothing that fit! (yes, spoiled girl here!) And, she has located the baked Cheetos that I have been searching for! A vender uses her tanning bed, so she traded a month package for a half case of Cheetos! I can hardly wait to get that orange powder all over my fingers! :lol: I'm sure the muffin won't mess you up too bad. I bet you can still remember the taste! Enjoy it for me too! You must be excited about the anniversary! I hope things go great tomorrow. 15 years is great work. Did your hair appointment go well.

Linda - Have a great time at your in-laws.

Well, I'm going to fix a bite of breakfast and get ready for the 1 1/2 hour drive. Great time to just chill out and sing along with the radio.

Later!

Hey girls.
I don't think I'm doing well. Yesterday was fine, but today I only had 10 points. I just didn't eat, don't know why, I guess I wasn't hungry. I'm convinced I won't see a loss again this week and under-eating isn't helping either. Definitely not in a good mood today... :(

Aw, Natalie - If I could give you some of my joy from today, I certainly would. Maybe you will be wrong about the scale and the mood is probablyTOM related. Maybe? You've been doing great. Just having a bad spell. Hopefully, it will end soon.

I did find some great clothing deals. And bought a size 14 pants. They are probably the only size 14 that will fit me right now, but it felt great. I think I will leave the tag on for everyone to see! Having some clothes that fit is a great thing.

I decided to get a body perm today. I needed something to add life to my hair, but nothing too wild. So, I'm a little stinky tonight, but it will soon pass.

Well, it is very late. Past time for bed.

C-ya tomorrow!

Hi there, good morning all, or by the time Melanie reads this, probably this evening, as it must have been VERY late when you last posted. I can't stay up that late anymore, kills me. Too much getting up too early I guess.
Great getting new clothes that fit isn't it Melanie. Nice of your mum to splash out a bit on you - will you get more when you reach your mini goal? And your hair done too, busy girl, my hair went ok, looks like a neater version of what is was before, but my hairdressers is a very relaxing place to go, so worth it. And of course, I skipped an hour of work to go which makes it even better!

Natalie, don't give up hope. It's times like these that you must just keep going, but it can feel very hard when you don't think you are getting anywhere. persevere and you will get there in the end. We're here for you.

Anyway, my typings not very good this morning after my meal out last night. I did really well all night, stayed on points, not sure how, until I got home and DH poured me a glass of Baileys (do you get that), must have been 10 points for the size of glass I had, but yummy. I'll have to get straight on that treadmill and burn it off. It was a lovely meal, and DH brought me flowers at the restaurant, the old romantic. So a good night was had by all.

Oh well, gotta go shower, back later.

yes, it was very late when I posted. I got home at 1 a.m. and posted close to 2. I can never go straight to bed. I have to roam around the house a bit. But, it was morning when I saw your message. Had to get lunch started in my crockpot and get to church. We had a friend over afterwards for lunch and then crashed for a few hours. It will probably be late when I doze off tonight.

Dawny - Sounds like you had a great ann. celebration! Yes, we have Bailey's here. DH loves it. I like a touch in coffee occasionally. My mother goes to Jamaica about once a year. She always brings back some Jamaican Rum Creme that is quite tastey too.

It was a good day with tons of NSVs. Since I was wearing clothes that actually fit, more people noticed how much I have really lost. I have to admit, I'm a bit full of myself today. :smug:

It was also an interesting lunch. A Mexican fellow has started attending our church and started sitting with DH and me, so we invited him to lunch. There is still a bit of a language barrier, but we had a good time and built on a friendship. One dish needed a bit of spicing up. Isriel's eyes lit up when DH brought out the hot sauce. :lol: I guess my cooking is a bit more bland than he is used to. :lol:

As always, working with the kids at church on Sunday nights was a blessing. There are a couple of pre-teens that can really push my buttons, but mostly they are a good group of girls.

I used 7 FPs yesterday because I couldn't resist the restaurant's yummy house dressing and croissant, but I only had a half serving of each. Today, we had steak, so it didn't seem like I ate much, but the fatter meat caused me to use 5 FPs today. :( I certainly need to be a good girl for a few days and keep the progress I have been making. I think tomorrow night I am going to try to make a butternut squash soup. I have never had a winter squash and am itching to try it! Oops! Just remembered, 6 FPs today. I had a big bite of DH's leftover pizza. :dunno: Oh, well. Tomorrow, I will do my best to be OP and get up in time to exercise.

Later!

Hello Everyone...

Sorry it's been awhile. Been in my own world, so to speak for a week or so. My brother and his wife went out of town for a few days so I was 'mommy' to my nephews (7,5,& 2) all the while working and dealing with this break-up. I was busy as a bee and totally OFF program. Didn't even bother going to weigh in on Friday. This weekend, X came over and we spent some time together shopping for my empty apartment, found a few things.

I'm ready to get back with the program. I really don't feel like I totally blew it. I don't feel like I was a perfect angel, but I wasn't pigging out every day either. We'll see what the scales say next week.

Overall my spirits are good. Looks like everyone is doing well, glad to see it.

Good to be back!

Talk to you soon.

Angela - Sounds like you have been a busy girl! But, I bet it was a blast having the nephews with you! I only have one neice and two new step-nephews that I haven't gotten to know very well yet. DH has 4 nephews and 4 neices. The holidays at his parents' house are a blast. The second to youngest nephew is 1 1/2 yoa and has the best disposition. I have never seen him upset for more than 30 seconds. He is a cute bundle of giggles. However, Aunt Melanie avoids diaper duty like the plague! Especially with the tricky like guys!

I hope you have a good week and can get back on program. I know everything is probably still up in the air right now, but WW will be there for you when you are ready.

Best wishes,

Hi there, just found this 3fc link, http://www.3fatchicks.com/member-gallery/index.php you can put your photos on, and share each others lives even more than we do already! Not put any of mine on yet, will have to find some good ones first!!!

Anyway, good morning to you all, just paying a quick visit before I have to take my little puddy cat to the vet. She has a poorly paw and also I think horrible jumping creatures in her fur - can't even bring myself to say the word. They will soon sort her out.

I feel like pigging out, and TOM is long since been and gone so I can't blame that. I think that all the excess of the weekend, nice as it was, has just made me want more of the same. I must be strong, I must remember WI on wednesday. I must remember I have goals to achieve, and I must remember My NSV from yesterday. I went into a clothes shop, just for the heck of it to try on some jeans - just to see if a smaller size would fit - and they did! I jumped up and down in the cubicle (very quietly) and was very pleased with myself. I didn't buy them - couldn't afford to, what with Christmas coming up etc, but they looked pretty darn good if I do say so myself.

Gotta go for now, gotta catch the cat! See ya later

Dawny - I was having the cravings yesterday. I wanted anything I wasn't supposed to have. I was mostly good, though. You can beat your cravings too, I'm sure. Hope the vet fixes up the kitty. And congrats on the NSV! I've done a bit of jumping in dressing rooms myself. I does feel good!

Well, I didn't want to get up this morning. Mondays are tough for me. I did manage to get up and workout for about 20 minutes. Maybe I will try to walk or something this afternoon. I just noticed I was so loopy this morning, I have my shorts on backwards! :lol: I was up late again last night. Partly because of yesterday's long nap. Partly because I was feeling very glum. Not happy with the body perm at all. It is not doing what it was supposed to do. I want it gone! But, it will be several weeks before I can stress my hair out again. Oh, well. Maybe it will get better. It's still very new.

Time to get ready for work. I'll check back in later.

Well, I blew it. I just typed this enourmous post for you all and accidently got it deleted. It took me about 15 minutes and I am running out of time to do it over as I've just got to move on with my day.....
Just a brief overview....
Glad you are trying again Angela.
Congrats on the anniversary Dawny!
Congrats on those NSVs with smaller sized clothing to both Melanie and Dawny! Really cool!
I lost control this weekend, as I thought I would, but am vowing, anew, to get back on program today! Tomorrow is weigh in and if I gained, again, I shall just have to work hard!
Dawny, for black beans (can't imagine you not having those) you could substitute any canned beans like kidney, chick peas, etc. It would be fine. Also, you don't get white corn??? Any canned corn would be just fine, white corn is a bit sweeter, that is all.
Well, off for breakfast and still bummed out that I lost all that stuff I typed.
Typical me.
Linda :(

Good Morning

Dawny - Sorry about the kitty! She'll feel sooo much better once she's all fixed up!! Congrats on the NSV with the jeans. I can't wait to see some of THOSE results!! Keeps me motivated to hear those stories, keep 'em coming!!

Melanie - I hear you about not wanting to get up this morning. I slept in my new bed for the first time last night (I've had it since Friday but havn't slept in it - I know, I'm a nut!) and right now I'm trying to convince myself I have to work at home in my p.j's - which would mean sitting right here in this bed with my laptop. It's sooo cozy!!

Natalie - You know, I have days where I don't eat all my points either. Days when I just can't bring myself to eat all my points. Hard to believe given I have such a weight 'problem' but it's true. Wonder what that's all about?

Linda- hope you had a good time away for the weekend. Hope you were able to enjoy your visit without beating yourself up for having a nibble or two of some good food!!

Just heard the news about Christopher Reeves.... very very sad.

Anyway, drinking my water <gulp> <gulp>. Ya'll have a good day!!

Hey all! I'm not feeling well so just a quick note from me at the moment. I really, really hope you all are doing great, congrats on the NSV, and everyone keep up the good work! Linda, don't worry about spoiling the weekend, you have a lot of motivation and I'm sure you'll bounce back quickly.
Me, I'm not feeling well cos my wisdom teeth are coming out and it hurts like ****. I'm taking painkillers and I only eat soft food, like soup, omelette and rice cos I can't chew well. So, I'm under points the last couple of days and I feel it will affect my WI. I'd be thrilled to see a loss but I'm really pessimistic about it, the last 2 gains really discouraged me. Anyway, take care girls and keep posting!!

Well, I'm finally starting to lift my spirits. I’m wearing my new clothes and the hair turned out good today. But, I’m just waiting for it to kink up again. :mad: But, I feel good with my bright berryblue shirt and sleek, brown (SIZE 14!!!) slacks. I thought about not taking the tags off.

I’m feeling like something like Eeyore from Winnie the Pooh today. And, I’m here at work, waiting for people to complain about their spouses/ex-spouses/or children. I’m seriously considering going home early and hide under the covers, but it is my boss’ first day back after a week gone. He would not be happy if I took a mental health day.

Linda – I hope you get another chance to post. I love reading your lengthy chats. Have you gotten off to a good start getting back on track? It’s so hard to start over. Today’s the only day you can control. Give it a go!

Angela – Oooo… work in pj’s. Niiiiiccceee. If only…. :cloud9:

Natalie – I hope you get to feeling better. I have one wisdom tooth that came in nicely. The others got evicted. I’m afraid I am going to lose a side tooth that has become a bother, but I’m holding out for extreme pain or when DH gets settled at a job and we have dental insurance. On the bright side, difficulty chewing might make WI a bit more tolerable. :(

Well, I have to be more convincing that I’m working. I’ll check in with you gals later!

Hi girls, I've had quite a good day today, had 4 of my fruit and veg portions already, and 6 glasses of water so far. I'm on 10 points, leaving plenty for tonights dinner (not sure what we are having yet - spag bol perhaps) and I've done a bit on the treadmill too. I'm having a bad hair day, but despite that (the only people to see me today were AJ and the vet!), I'm feeling good.

Linda, Glad you had a good weekend, hope you got straight back on track today, pounded out some of your disappointment on the treadmill perhaps? Go to WI tomorrow and be inspired by the 'talk', and I hope there aren't too many weekends away now for a while! Thanks for the bean thing, I will certainly look for the alternatives, chances are we just have different names for the stuff. One thing about our food over here, not sure whats its like in the US, but almost every food manufacturer, and the supermarkets own brands, are very good at their nutritional labelling. It makes it really easy to work out the points in almost everything I buy. ( I know I've gone off subject here) The main supermarket I go to also has a great 'healthy living' range, and even has worked out the WW points values in a serving and tells you on the packaging. You have to double check it just to be on the safe side, but it makes shopping so much easier - and cheaper than the WW brands. WW has just brought out some lovely bread rolls though, 2 points each but that probably 1 or 2 less than an equivelent. I do love bread. Always been one of my downfalls - especially when its loaded up with cheese! I do eat far less of both though nowadays, just been a natural change in diet I guess, but sometimes, you just crave it, must be the carb thing. Anyway, back to what I wanted to ask, what do you look at on the packaging to work out points? We only do cals and sat fat, is it the same for you or do you also have to include fibre? If I know this, it might help when I'm looking at(remember the word looking!) American recipes, to work out or double check the points.

Anyway, Melanie, hi, hope you are enjoying your day at work. I know you aren't working from the warmth and comfort of your bed, but I suppose it brings in a crust!
I hardly dare mention this, (I have a thing about whatever I mention in passing then happening!), but I don't have any wisdom teeth. Of course, I'll probably wake up with raging toothache tomorrow now, tempting fate, but I've decided I'm probably not going to get any now, I am an old lady and couldn't cope with new teeth at my age. Even if they did bring more wisdom!

Natalie, I hope you aren't suffering too much, take care and just get well. Think of food later.

Angela, enjoy your day at work too!!! Sounds like you have every intention of doing so!

Oh, if I've missed anyone sorry, I just can't keep up. Oh, btw, puddy cat had a claw in her paw and yes, jumping things too. Lovely. Gotta go feed her now, Back later.

Take care all.

Oh hello again...

I've gotten sooo much done!! No distractions of the office, it's GREAT! I'm going to have to get up soon to go meet with one of the CEO's in a few but I feel like I've actually accomplished something, and on a Monday, who knew??

So far today I've had 7 points and lots of water. Feeling really good about how I'm doing and really motivated! Hope this meeting goes well so I don't feel the need to eat my way through the blues again!!

I forgot to tell ya'll I found some little treasures for my apartment so it doesn't look quite so bare. I went to some consignment / re-sale shops over the weekend and picked up a few things. Mom 'donated' a few items that my precious Grandfather had built. He was an incredibly talented carpenter during his retirement and we were so close. I've missed him so much since he passed. One of the things he built I'm using as a night stand of sorts, so it's like having him right next to me while I sleep. It was so thoughtful of my mom to lend 'him' to me during this time.

Anyway, I'm up and running again. Talk to you all soon!

Well, I'm back again for a little bit. Waiting for floor wax to dry so I can get in my kitchen and start cooking dinner!
I raked leaves outside for an hour this morning and figure that earned me two points. I've been really good on food and water so far today and have a chicken dinner planned that should keep me right on target for my points today.
We're supposed to get terrible weather later on today, but right now the sun is shining, it's cool, but lovely here with the sun making the fall leaves glow with color! Hard to feel anything but inspired on a nice day.
Angela, I heard about Christopher Reeves as well and was saddened. I couldn't help but feel so sorry for him. He had so much going for him and then that horrible horseback riding accident took it all away. Seems so unfair, but accidents happen.
Guess we need to look at something like what happened to him and recognize that our bodies are meant to be taken care of and not taken for granted. The ability we are blessed with to move, exercise and take care of ourselves should not be wasted!
Take care everyone and be good to your bodies!
Linda

Linda,

That is such a wonderful point! We MUST take better care of our bodies! Here this man is, any person really, be it Christopher Reeves or some homeless man under the bridge - who is so much less fortunate than - well I can only speak for myself - me. And I'm trashing my body with junk and minimal movement. Where is my gratitude? Definately something for me to think about.

I meant me as well, Angela, we've all done this.
Melanie who seems like the most religious of us all (which I admire) would tell us the bible says the body is a temple... we need to respect that temple and nurture it. We should never show a lack of respect for that temple.
We are what we eat!
With that, dinner is almost ready - but a VERY healthy meal of chicken breast, baked potato, asparugus and salad... will still have 4 points left for a dessert tonight as well!
Linda

Hi all,

I have had a very busy weekend and splerged a bit to much. I so wanted to get to the 10lb loss tomorrow, but am now worried that I have gained. I am so far only over 1pt but it buggs the heck out of me that I let it get that way. i was doing great till I ate a bagle hot dog and found out when I got home that it was a wopping 12 points! But I have been drinking oodls and oodles of water so hopefully that will help!

Talk to you all tomorrow,

Yikes Bella, I've never even heard of a bagel hot dog! Not sure I want to know if it's that many points! By the way (sorry Dawny, you probably won't find these in the UK?) Hebrew National ff hot dogs are only one point each! With the lite hot dog rolls, having a "real" hot dog for a meal is only three points! A "normal" hot dog with a roll is something like 9 points.... huge difference and this brand is totally likeable!
I just got up and will be starting my day shortly. I weighed myself and the scales at ww might be good to me today! So hard to know as my scale and theirs always differ and when I have a bit of something for breakfast, drink my coffee (I refuse to starve myself!) and put clothing on, etc. it could even out a bit?
Don't you just love with the scale slightly "dips" to a lower number that you've not seen in a long time, even if it comes back and settles on the higher number,it's exciting! We'll see how it goes today.
Linda in windy NH

NEW THREAD NOTICE!!!!!
http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/showthread.php?t=47853
This last post that I just made would barely work and took ages to appear, so my guess is that we just have filled up another thread.
So, use this new URL and we can just continue on!
C-ya there!
Linda