WW Clubs and Groups - 50 or more pounds #60

If you have 50 or more pounds to lose, this is the group for you! So jump on in and join; you'll be sure to get a warm welcome!

Rebecca, you are just doing SO well, wow, 2.7 pounds! :) And I really like your idea about writing down your reasons; you're right, that will be a great resource for you. And a size smaller shorts, too! Whooee!

Texaslady, so glad your dd is getting settled in her new house; what an exciting time for her! And you're right, let's keep New Orleans in mind for the future; it's a good "central" location, and there's lots to do there. Would also love to host another reunion here some day.

Patti, now they think the same man who kidnapped that girl in Slidell is the one who took another girl in Houston yesterday, and possibly the same one who kidnapped a San Antonio girl a few weeks back (she's home safe now). What a small and dangerous world we live in!

Had a busy but productive OP day today. Met with one of the teams I've been helping this year, and they gave me some lovely pink roses; really made my day. Used lunch hour to shop, and found a great swimsuit at Sam's for 1/3 of its list price; now just wish I had a pool. ;)

Today has been a quiet day here; hope everyone's doing ok. Hi to Carol, Janet, Saara, Stamps, Liz,JOYce, Kendra, and Nancy & Nancy.
Regards,
Jan

Good morning all!
Patti, I'm glad you have a good attitude about your tiny gain- it'll be gone next week I'm sure. In fact, it probably already is!
Texaslady hooray for your dd!!How exciting!! You'll have to post a picture or 2 of her house! I'm glad she changed her locks- I wouldn't trust those squirrelly ex-owners with a key either!
Janthe Sugarloaf Crafts is just the name of a group- the fair moves from city to city. There are actual Sugarloaf Mountains, but being "athletically challenged":) I'm not sure if they have skiing or not. I'm glad you enjoyed your mini-vacation- sounds wonderful, but you should have had the new bathing suit BEFORE the trip!! :lol:I'm glad you got some more clothes too- and size small too!!
Rebecca, WOW!! Congrats on your awesome 2.7 pound loss and the smaller size! And yup- the motel part of your trip sounds a lot better to me than the 40 mph winds part! :D
Janet, my friend, where are you? You are missed!!
Saara, have you recovered from May Day, or is it all still a work in progress?
Liz, how are things going for you?
Joyce, how are you feeling, and how are things going with your mom and your sister? Was the motorized cart a hit? I hope you are coninuing to relax and take care of Joyce!!
It looks like we've lost Kendra, TC Nancy and NJ Nancy! If you ladies are lurking, drop back in!!

What's up for the weekend for everyone? I have to babysit for a while on Friday after work. Then early Saturday morning a friend of mine is coming by to help me with "storage closet 101". I need to find something that's buried somewhere in there, and due to my "no bend, no stretch,10 pound lift" limitation I can't move the stuff. I figured since she volunteered and is willing, it'll be a good time to get the junk out of that closet too! My dd's dh was supposed to help me with this about a month ago, but....well, you know how that is! Anyhow, the rest of the weekend should be quiet. I'll be ready for quiet after hauling all the stuff out of that closet!:rolleyes:
Well, work calls, so I'd better run. Have a great op Thursday, everyone!
Carol

Wow...it's hard to believe that we are on thread number 60!

Patti, I had just seen the report on "America's Most Wanted" about the kidnapped girl the night before you reported that she had been found. I don't usually watch that show, but it was on while I was working in the kitchen and I heard them talking about it and ran to watch. I am so thankful that they found her. I hope they catch her abductor before he hurts anyone else but, from what Jan was saying, it sounds like it may already be too late.

We had Krysten's last band concert Monday night. It was bittersweet! The "bad boys" played the new cadence for next year and it was one of my favorite parts. Each senior guard girl got a trophy and every band member got a plaque and a tape that had performances from all four years of high school. They usually win the state championship every year, so they had highlights of all those competitions. It brought back so many memories. The majority of these kids have been together for seven years...since the sixth grade...and I know they are going to miss each other.

We also pre-registered Krysten for college last Monday. I felt like a teenager again. Krysten and Tim asked me to go with them (and most of the freshman had their parents with them), but her counselor gave me "the look" :nono: every time I tried to answer a question that he asked her. He wanted her to do her schedule herself and I understood that (after a few moments...you know I'm slow and it takes me a few mintues to catch on). :dz: It's going to be so hard to let go after all these years of trying to protect her and guide her. Maybe they will let me move into the dorm with her. Don't y'all think that she would just love that! :rolleyes:

Rebecca, congrats on your loss. I'm sure you already know this, but May 5th is National Scrapbooking Day. Your camping trip sounded wonderful to me. Fishing is one of my favorite things. There is nothing like being out on the water fishing as the sun is setting. Everything is so peaceful then. I like my conveniences, but I love to camp...I mean really camp and rough it. Of course, I can't wait to have a nice hot shower when I get home, but I love being outside. I don't get to do much of that anymore, but maybe I will have to change that.

Okay...Jan, Texaslady, Carol, and anyone else who wants to go...I am going to hold y'all to this New Orleans trip. I've said many times that New Orleans is one of my favorite places, and I would love to spend the weekend with y'all there. Maybe our kids will be more at ease this time since hopefully we have convinced them now that none of us are serial killers or criminals. That still cracks me up how they were ALL so fearful for us on our Texas trip. :D What a role reversal.

Texaslady, I agree with the others...I'm glad that your DD and SIL changed the locks on THEIR new house. The old owner doesn't sound very responsible, and I wouldn't want her to have free reign over my house either. I hope that you will be able to post some pics...along with the engagement pics.

Jan, I'm glad that y'all had a good time on your trip. I'm sorry that you didn't get to fish, but it sounds like you found plenty to do. I would love to be walking along the beach right now!!

Carol, my sweet friend. Thank you for always worrying about me. Hopefully, I will be able to start posting on a regular basis again soon. I'm ready for things to slow down a bit.

Saara, how were your May Day parties?? Write when you can. JOYce, I hope you are doing good and that your mom liked her new "toy." Your girls are probably winding down with their school too. When do they get out? Krysten only has seven more class days. She is so ready. One of her teachers had a "melt down" yesterday. I told her that I would have a melt down too if I had to deal with some of those kids. :spin:

Hi to everyone else I missed. We are going to DD's boyfriend's last concert tonight, so I've got to hit the road and get my video camera ready. Everyone have a great OP night!

Janet (Kudzu)

Just a quick note before i go AWOL. :(
Mother loves her new cart, or so I'm told, i haven't caught her in her room yet, to have her answer the phone! :lol:
I am not feeling well at all, so have to sit back and let others do it... I am scheduled for a Day surgery on Tuesday, ( a female thing) Hopefully, I will feel lots better after that..
I'll be thinking of you, just not saying a lot.
Maybe after I get this stuff taken care of, I will be able to lose some weight. I'll check in when I know more.

Oh, Melissa got her drivers license on her first try today! she is so thrilled, and now she can run errands for me while I recupperate!
Bye!

~~~~
:wave:
Joyce

Oh JOYce, I am sorry that you are not feeling well. I hope your surgery goes just fine and that you are fit and fiddle again real soon! From what you said about catching your Mom in her room, I would say she likes that new cart just fine! :lol: We will be thinking about you and you check in whenever you can to let us know how you are doing!

Janet! Glad to hear from you again. Hey, I mean what I say about the New Orleans trip. It would be a blast! I know how you are feeling about the high school days coming to a close - it is wonderful and awful at the same time. One of the worse days of my life was when I drove away from the Freshman dorm my dd's first year in college to drive the 250 miles back home. We are very close (bet you didn't know THAT!) and my phone bills over the next four years certainly attested to it. I believed I talked with her about every other day - and they weren't short calls, either! And there were many many trips back and forth to Fort Worth. But we both survived - and you will, too. We both grew from the experience, but we have to let them fly on their own someday. But it IS hard! Of course, we never truly let them go - just extend their leash! :D

Carol - Where are you today? I miss your early morning post. Seems I remember you are keeping that darling baby today - does that mean you will have to work some this week-end. I don't envy you the closet cleaning but I bet you will find some old clothes that will give you a big laugh because they fit nearly 100 pounds ago but certainly not now. Probably will find lots of other stuff you haven't seen in a while, too! When you're done, maybe you and your friend would like to tackle mine??????

Jan - Awww, that was so sweet of them to give you the roses! Isn't it amazing how something unexpected can just brighten our day? Congrats on the new swim suit too. Wow, a pool at your place would be great - what a fantastic sunset view you would have every night! Why don't you and dh get one of those big above ground pools - you certainly have the room for it. The TV news here is concentrating on that guy they think has been snatching little girls from San Antonio to Louisiana, Have to admit the police sketches sure make it look like he's the same guy. Hope they catch the creep.

I will be staying at dd's tonight so she can drag me out of bed extra early in the morning to go help at the new house! They are lucky because they do have a couple months to get the painting done, bookshelves in, and get drapes hung. Oh, and the security guy is coming tomorrow too. But in her true "driven" fashion, my dd would like to get it all accomplished in one week-end! Of course, as soon as that's done, she will wanting to move from the apartment! More work! The previous owner is supposed to come get her stuff tomorrow too. So it will be a full day, I guess. Probably too much for this "old lady" but I will keep up as best I can!

Hi to Patti, Rebecca, Saara - everyone have a great week-end! It's certainly summertime here already.

JOYce, sorry to hear you are having day surgery; hope you have a speedy recovery. Great news about Melissa's license, and on the first try; terrific! I'm so glad your Mom likes her cart, too; how wonderful that she's out of her room gallivanting around the place!

Janet, what fun that must have been with the band; wow, state champions over and over! That takes commitment from the kids, parents, director, everyone involved; being around folks like that is so energizing! Glad to hear you're a "go" for a New Orleans trip some day; that'll be a blast!

Carol, sounds like you have a busy weekend planned, at least thru Saturday. I'm glad you have someone to help you, so you won't be lifting heavy stuff. Cleaning closets reminds me of what Dorothy Parker said about writing, that she hated the writing part, but loved having written. Enjoy admiring your organized closet on Sunday!

Texaslady, we were posting about the same time today, looks like! (Am taking my mid-morning "tea break" too.) Sounds like your weekend is also booked up; how nice of you to do all that painting for your dd! Re: an aboveground pool, I've been trying to talk dh and Dad into that for a couple of years; maybe this will be the summer they'll go for it! (I'd "just do it," but unless they agreed, I'd end up doing all the maintenance myself!)

Saara, were the May Day parties fun? Was that special guy at any of them? I'm curious: what all did you serve your guests at the party you hosted? Any news yet on the university placement for next year?

I went to a ww mtg in SA yesterday; stayed the same, but at least it wasn't a gain. The topic this week was stuff other than the scale that lets you know you're succeeding, fortunately for me. ;) Tomorrow, will be super busy helping at the museum benefit, a Classic Car Cruise. I'll be hosting the children's games (there are usually a few who ride along with their grandparents in those beautiful cars) and a flea market.

So, everyone have a great weekend, and let's all plan ahead so we can stay OP in spite of all the work! Hi to Liz, Patti, and Rebecca; how are your weekend plans shaping up?

Regards,
Jan

Happy Friday Everyone! :)

I just heard that the suspected serial kidnapper of the Louisiana girl (Lisa) and of the other two girls just shot himself. I didn't hear all the details, but he was stopped by police and the last kidnapped girl was with him but was able to escape. The police then surrounded his car. He got out, pointed a gun at his head and pulled the trigger. On top of having to cope with whatever abuse he had already inflicted on her, that innocent little girl had to witness his death. I think I heard them say that the kidnapper had taken all of his victims back home after keeping them for a few days. Is that what happened with Lisa? Did he just take her back to wherever he had kidnapped her from? I'm just glad that all the victims are now safe and sound at home.

JOYce, I'm so sorry that you aren't feeling like your usual chipper self. I hope that your surgery helps with whatever is ailing you. Just take care of yourself and let others take care of you for a change. That is great about Melissa getting her license on her first try and I know that she will be a huge help now that she can run errands for you. I remember "begging" to go fill up the car with gas...or run to the grocery store...I volunteered for everything that needed to be done just so I could drive, so I'm sure that Melissa will be more than happy to help. I chuckled when I read about your mom never being in her room when you call. I can just picture her scooting all over the place now! :)

Jan, those pool plans sound wonderful. I have toyed with the idea for the last couple of years, but I'm like you...I want to be sure that I will have plenty of help with the maintenance before I take the plunge...so to speak! :lol: I loved what Dorothy Parker said about writing...I feel that way about so many things. We will have to definitely plan that New Orleans trip next year. Think of all the great shopping we could do! I fill poorer just thinking about it! :D It sounds like y'all have a wonderful, fun-filled weekend ahead of you. Enjoy!

Texaslady, I'm holding you to the trip too. After spending time with you in Texas, I know that we would all have a great time in the Big Easy. I'm getting excited just thinking about all the places we could go and things we could do. You and Carol are inspiring me with all the projects you have going for the weekend. Your DD is so lucky to have you there to help her. I appreciate your words of wisdom about my DD graduating. It helps so much to hear from someone who has been through it. I especially loved what you said about how we never truly let them go...just extend their leash! I loved it!! Enjoy spending time with the kids.

Carol oh Carol, are you babysitting this afternoon?? I agree with Texaslady...I miss your daily posts! Have fun tomorrow cleaning out that closet...and spending time with your friend. We are going to have to fuss at that SIL of yours. I believe that is not the first project that he has offered to help you with where you have ended up having to get help elsewhere...seems I recall something about carpets. :p Just don't overdo this weekend. We don't want you flat on your back next week. I heard on the weather channel that it was hot up your way...even a little hotter than it has been here. Has it been that hot or did I dream that? It has been very pleasant here for the last week. Not too hot with bright blue skies. It is getting harder and harder to sit here, especially now that I have a window in my new office. I want to be OUTSIDE!!

Saara, how are you?? I know it's hard to find a computer, but TRY! :lol: We miss you!!!!

Hi to Patti and Rebecca...and to Kendra, Nancy and Nancy. Let us hear from you if you are still lurking out there somewhere. Did I forget anyone? Forgive me if I did.

I better get ready to leave. Have a great OP weekend!!

Janet (Kudzu)

Hi ladies! TGIF! Is everyone looking forward to the weekend? We've had such hot weather this week- up in the low 90's, which is not fun for early May, and the pollen count is about a billion and three! :D Not real pleasant for outdoor activities for those of us with asthma and/or allergies!
I worked 1/2 day today, and then picked up my little sweetie at the babysitters. I had him till about 6:30- lots of fun, but not back friendly!! He's so darned cute now, and just the happiest litttle guy you'd ever want to see. My dd and her dh took him to the photographer yesterday. She showed me the proof sheet- they really are cute! Can't wait till the finished photos come in!
Janet, I hadn't heard that the serial kidnapper shot himself- thank God that's over with, but I agree- that poor child who was with him at the time!! You'll really miss the band concerts when dd graduates- that was the hardest thing for me. My dd was in the marching, concert, symphony and jazz bands, and we went to all the concerts- and she had such a nice group of friends in them too. The jazz band was especially fun- she was the pianist, and the only girl in it, and all of them were so close because it was a real small group. It was like she had 6 or 7 or whatever it was big brothers. They were all so protective of her, and they critiqued her clothes and her hair, etc. And heaven help the guy who might make a pass or hurt her feelings! She and her now husband were dating then, and her jazz band "brothers" kept him in line! :lol: They are happy memories.
Joyce, I'm so sorry you have to have that surgery after all!! Hopefully it will make you feel so much better that you'll wonder why you didn't do it sooner! Please take care- let others do for you for a change!! I'm glad your mom likes her cart- your comment about never being able to find her in now reminded me of a commercial they had a few years back for a cart called the Rascal! Congrats to Melissa on getting her license!
Texaslady, I know I haven't been posting as much lately- it's hard to explain. I do "lurk" though. My "closet 101" thing tomorrow isn't a clothes closet- been there, did those. It's a big storage closet with shelves full of heavy boxes and junk and old photos and heaven knows what else. There's something particular I need to find, and it's going to require moving everything- so I figure while I'm in there I'll clean stuff out and toss the ridiculous things I've saved for sentimental reasons. For example- every card my dh and dd ever sent to me(or me to them). And speaking of backs, be VERY careful of yours while you are helping dd and her dh to be with the move!!
Jan, it sounds like you're going to have a wonderful weekend- very hectic, but an enjoyable hectic. It would be nice if you could talk your dh and dad into the pool- it would be lovely for you. But am I remembering correctly that your dh doesn't like to swim? If so, he may be a hard sell!!!:)
Hi to Saara,Rebecca, Stamps, Liz and Patti. And Kendra, Nancy and Nancy, we miss you! Hope I didn't forget anyone!:?:
Have a good weekend, everyone!
Carol :wave:

Hey, everybody!

I finally had a minute to myself and wanted to let everyone know I haven't disappeared from the face of the earth. My days have taken a life of their own and have not had a chance to even sign on to lurk.
The good news is that I lost 6lbs this week (still losing some of the weight that I put on duiring the last motivationally challenging period). The bad news is that I really missed reading all the posts and had to catch up this morning.

I saw that that little girl was found. Thank God. I agree, there are so many sicko's out there. I can't understand what motivates people to do the things they do.

Trip to New Orleans next year? Sign me up. I would love to meet each and everyone of you. Speaking of the south, I have to tell you about the customer from Mississippi that was in my class this week (I was training the customers again this week, not only have I decided that I love when I rotate through training, but I brought my own food so as to avoid the catered meals and stayed op all week!)
This wonderful gentleman had an accent so thick to this old northern gal's ears that at times I thought that I would need a translator. Turns out, he noticed my problem and decided that he would lay it on thick everynow and then just to tease me. And apparently he did the same thing at the resteraunt in New York when they were taken out on entertainment, when he was inquiring about whether "crawfish" was on the menu. Never knew crawfish had more than two syllables!

Hi to everyone, and everyone have a great weekend!

Liz, it is great to hear from you. We have really missed you...but what do you mean crawfish isn't more than two syllables?? I thought EVERY word was more than two...at least they are down here in Dixie!! :lol: :lol: :lol: Congratulations on your 6 pound loss. That is fantastic!! :)

I LOVED your story of the Mississippi gentleman. Where in Mississippi was he from? It's funny, but people in different parts of our state definitely have different accents...some much more pronounced than others. Of course, the first time I spoke to Carol on the phone, the first thing she mentioned was something about my suthn' drawl. I don't think I have an accent, but apparently I am VERY mistaken! :D We used to visit friends in New York when I was younger, and they delighted in asking me to pronounce different words for them. My last boyfriend was originally from New York, and he got a real kick out of that too. It also reminds me of a story about my daddy. He was on a business trip to New York once, and he and my mother were out that night at a very nice restaurant with some of their business associates. You would just have had to know my daddy, but he was very much a people person and never met a stranger. The waiter came to take their order and he mentioned tomatoes...that is tomatoe with an "ahhhhh" sound...as in tomahhhhhhtoe. Well, of course my daddy had to make a comment about them being called tomatoes...with a "long a" down here in Mississippi. The waiter started cracking up...it turns out that he was from some little dinky town here in Mississippi. He let his true accent come out then, and they ended up having a blast with him. I think the story lost something in my story telling, but I always loved that story when my daddy would tell it. He always made people laugh everywhere we went. He was such a joy and I have really been missing him lately. He was very wise, and I have really missed having his advice on things lately too. I started crying in the middle of a store the other night when I saw a girl with her father. It just hits me sometimes, even after five years. Speaking of tomatoes...do they have an "e" on the end. Where is "Dan" when you need him??

Carol, I hope you are okay after your day of work. My DD and I had so many errands to run today, and we ended up not doing any of them. It was just one of those "lazy" days...but that's okay because we both needed it. I haven't even eaten today yet. Just haven't felt like it. Weird huh? I think I will go grill some chicken.

Everyone have a great rest of the weekend. Tomorrow is our big building fund weekend at our church and then DD has a senior tea that we have to attend tomorrow. It's also her little brother's fifth birthday, but I didn't get invited to that! ;)

Janet (Kudzu)

Morning everyone!

Janet,I loved that story about your father. He sounds like a wonderful person, someone who could make everyone feel at home no matter where he was!
I don't remember where he was from in Mississippi, except that it was a small town. And as for everyword having two syllables, I always thought that it was more proper to cut off the end of every word (e.g. "m goin t'stor or "how ya doin'"

I hope everyone else had a great weekend. It was a wonderful for yard work around here. After my last bout with poisen ivy I had this idea that I would slather on ivy block, cover myself from head to toe, and when I came inside for a break I would remove my clothes and immediately take a shower. I would change clothes completely and put the "poisen" ones in a garbage bag to bring to the laundromat.

I am happy to report I ended the weekend with not a single welt of poisen ivy and probably the cleanest person in New Jersey!

Have a great day everyone.

Happy Monday, everyone. Boy, this week-end flew by. It does sound like most of us had a nice week-end planned. The previous owner of dd's house came and finally got her stuff out on Friday night and Sat. a.m. and the alarm guy came Sat am and installed the alarm system. DD & fiance & friend of fiance's painted all week-end. I lined shelves, did the gopher runs back & forth to Home Depot for forgotten or extra paint and supplies & generally tried to make myself useful. I did a little trim painting but that's about it. The bad news is that it is taking 2 coats of paint on every wall - the good news is that it looks terrific so far (after a second coat). Apparently, home builders use very cheap clay-based paint when they put up a new home. So the clay in that paint absorbs whatever new paint follows and that's why the first coat is so streaky. So its taking twice as much labor in every room. I told them this won't be the first "homeowner" lesson hard-learned! :lol:

Well, Carol, did you get your project done? No post from you this morning so I hope you are at least "vertical" and didn't overdo with grandson and/or closet! Before I forget, I want to tell how much I enjoy the "funnies" you send me via e-mail - and JOYce sends me some too! Thanks. Sometimes they perfect for the moment.

Liz - Wow, congrats on the big loss! That's wonderful. We would LOVE to have you join another 3FC get-togehter in New Orleans! Wouldn't that be fun? And let me tell you that Janet most certainly DOES have a wonderful Southern accent - but, of course, I DON'T! :lol:
Glad you found a way to escape the poison ivy - sounds like it really worked. Now be sure to put your gloves back on before you pick up the clothes to put them in the washer!

About our serial kidnapper/child molester. The little girl he had with him was a local child. Our news here said she did not see the guy shoot himself. She had escaped and was quickly put into another officer's squad car and he told her to lie down on the floor of the car. He heard the shot as he drove away. So I believe she was spared that horror though she certainly has others to deal with.

Joyce - How are you doing? Check in when you can. We are all concerned about you. I just KNOW you aren't going to have any trouble getting help with the "car" errands now that Melissa has her license!

Jan - I think you really need to convince those guys in your life that a pool would be a wonderful addition to your property! How was your week-end? Sounds like such a fun time. You are involved in so many things - don't know where you find the time! Does your Dad accompany you? I bet he would love the Classic Cars. Reminds me of my Mom - I always tell her she has a "classic car" (1976 chevy!) in her garage which she drives every day! Of course, I know that's not the kind you are talking about -

Better get myself busy around here. Wish the week would pass as fast as the week-end! No such luck, though.

Hi everyone,

So you all know about the kidnapper, huh? It seems he had done this with several girls. When he returned Lisa he just bought her a bus ticket and sent her home. As soon as she stepped off of the bus in New Orleans everyone in the terminal recognized her. I know the guy took the easy way out, but at least the girls are spared the trauma of having to face him again in a courtroom.

Rebecca- I'm a little late, but congrats on your loss. Keep up the great work.

Janet - I just went on my last band trip. It was the State Symphonic Band competition. We didn't get sweepstakes. We got 2's onstage and we did manage to get a "1" for sight reading. That sight reading is amazing. This was my first time ever going into the room with them for this. It was awesome how talented these kids are. The march that they chose to do onstage kind of held them down. The other two selections - Crystals (this was amazing, they used alot of water for this one) and I think the other was "Images of Japan (this one was 14 minutes long and was the best I've ever heard them do) were really worth 1's. But DS absolutely had a ball. I was kind of sad watching all of the other seniors and knowing that I probably won't be seeing most of them anymore. One boy especially is going into the Army and I just kept watching him and wondering how his Mom must feel. My DS is just going to the University of New Orleans and will still be home, but I know she is going to miss her only child when he leaves. DS did take the video camera from me and got some great candid stuff that will be great memories for him. The only problem with the trip was that I had to eat fast food twice in one day and I NEVER eat fast food. I'll survive though.

Jan, Janet, TexasLady and Carol - Whenever you come to New Orleans - just let me know. I'd love to meet all of you. I really love playing tourist myself over here. It's so much fun in this city!

My son had his last day of school on 5/4. He is still in awe of the fact that he doesn't have to get up and go to school. I had already packed up all of his uniforms to get rid of them, but he caught me and said I have to keep one for him to wear to rehearsal on 5/17. The administrators seem to think they pay more attention when they are in uniform!! We went and picked out his tux this weekend - boy I haven't rented a tux in awhile - $119 and that doesn't include shoes!! It is a really nice one though, the 4 button style. All the while this is all going on I am working on scrapbooking and I'm doing pages of him when he was 3 & 4 and it is making me cry!!!

Joyce - good luck on your surgery! My prayers are with you.

Carol - My DS was in all of the same bands as your DS. It was alot of fun. I loved the football games and the Mardi Gras parades the most. I have lots of pictures and videos to preserve my memories. DS is going to try to get into the Pep Band and a wind ensemble(playing percussion of course) at UNO. They even give them a stipend for this. He didn't know to schedule it for the first semester though, so he'll have to wait until second semester.

And I'm sure all of you southern girls have your "GRITS"
T-shirts, right? You know, Girls Raised in the South. I love them!!!! Oh by the way, I didn't make it to Jazz Fest, but they say Saturday was a record - 80,000 + in attendance. DS was there, but was disappointed because he went to see the Dave Matthews Band and wasn't able to get anywhere near the stage. He did get a CD autographed for me of one of my favorite bands - Cowboy Mouth. They are local and are great!

Well, better go. I'll be back tomorrow with the weigh-in verdict. Keeping my fingers crossed after that darned fast food.

Take care,
Patti

Janet, I know just what you mean about accents; the Canadians we met last summer in Nova Scotia were far too polite to outright laugh, but they got a real kick out of our Texas accents. (So much so, that like Liz's acquaintance, DH started laying it on a bit thick!) Like you, I didn't think I had an accent at all (having grown up in Mass.) but I guess I do after all. Loved your story about your Dad and the waiter; can just picture that! I know you must treasure these wonderful memories.

Carol, you're right, DH doesn't like swimming if it's over his head (since he nearly drowned in a rice field canal when a child) but he does enjoy splashing around in a pool. Will just have to keep bringing it up until the guys think it was their idea all along! Did you find what you were looking for in that storage closet? Hope your back is still ok!

Liz, WOW, 6 pounds!! That's just wonderful! All the planning ahead you did to avoid the catered food really paid off, didn't it? Glad to hear you're "in" for the New Orleans idea; we just have to make that happen!

Texaslady, that painting and running errands sounds like a lot of work, but I'll bet it earned you lots of exercise points, too! Re: the car cruise, it went really well, even though it did rain like crazy towards the very end of the event. Everyone was good-humored about that, though, and we just moved them all inside the various museum buildings to finish their bbq. They brought more kids with them this year, so we had lots of fun at the kid's corner making Indian headbands, beaded bracelets, and playing a game. Dad came out for a while and had some bbq, and visited with old friends. And of course the cars were fantastic; everything from Model T's to classic Corvettes.

Patti, the band trip sounds great; what a talented group! How wonderful that your ds is attending college nearby. And don't worry about the fast food; I'm sure you made good choices, and that your wi will go well. And yes, we definitely must arrange to meet all together when the New Orleans shopping trip comes together!

Had one of my teacher teams over for lunch today, 8 people. Made a lowfat chicken enchilada casserole, squash, brown rice & pepper dish, and pintos. Fat free brownies for dessert. It all turned out well, if I do say so, but it was interesting to see the amounts people ate. They knew it was lowfat (since absolutely everyone there says he/she is trying to lose weight, I had mentioned that) yet everyone except my friend who joined WW and I went back for seconds. (I always cook about twice as much as I think I'll need when I have people over, thank goodness.) A fairly large serving of everything, including a brownie, was 10 points for the whole lunch, but I'd say most averaged 20-25. Do you think people eat more if they know it's lowfat? I seem to remember reading something about that. Anyway, I thought it was interesting, and it reminded me that portion sizes are incredibly important.

DH is grilling shark tonight; we have to call it "mahi mahi" in front of Dad, who isn't into what he thinks are exotic foods. But I think he's catching on to us on this one! We're grilling a few oysters for Dad too, though; the mesquite wood really does a good job with oysters.

Hi to Saara, JOYce, and Stamps; hope you had a good weekend! Hope all goes smoothly for you tomorrow, JOYce; I'm sure it will!
Regards,
Jan

Good morning everyone! Sorry about being awol the past couple days.
The weekend was busy and productive. I never did find what I was looking for in my stoage closet ("dear St. Anthony, please come down- something's lost and can't be found!") but I got rid of a lot of unneeded stuff, and found a few things I'd forgotten I had. I came across some pix of my exdh when he was a little boy, and in the ones where he is about 2 or 3 years old, our grandson is a dead ringer for him!! Amazing!
I did get to Trader Joe's- there is a new variety of Kashi cereal called "Go Lean Crunch"- it has a sweet coating and it's wunderful!! Makes a great snack just dry, too.
Liz, congrats on your amazing 6 pound loss!!:D I was enjoying the comments on accents and dialects. A friend of mine sent me an email called "Merlin" which pokes fun at the rather distinctive way of speaking in the Baltimore/Eastern Shore area of Maryland- it's full of slurred shortened words, not totally unlike a New Jersy or Philly accent. Here in Southern Maryland it's totally different- sort of Southern, but some of the speech patterns are totally unique! Having grown up in PA, I can spot a PA accent miles away!:lol: No matter how long we Pennsylvanians have been gone, certain words give us away! My dd still keeps in touch with a number of her highschool band friends- even after being out of school 14 years. They make a close bond, as I'm sure you'll see down the road with your ds.
Janet, I too enjoyed the story about your dad! What's the latest on the graduation hoopla? How was the tea?
Texaslady, I'm glad dd's house is cleared of the previous owner's stuff!! It sounds like you all made great progress over the weekend! I hope you were careful not to overdo- remember YOUR back, please!!! I'm "still vertical", as you asked. I have a followup doctor's appointment today- am a bit concerned that things aren't back to baseline even 3 months after the last injury, so I imagine he'll continue my restrictions.:( Some of these are pretty hard to do when you work full time, live alone and babysit for a 24 pound toddler on a regular basis!! Oh well- this too shall pass!
Patti, is your son enjoying his freedom now that high school is officially through for him?Boy, have tux rentals gone up!! Of course, so has everything else! Would love to meet you if we can all get together in New Orleans next year. I hope I can do it- money's tight, and that sounds like it could be a pretty sizable weekend expense. I'm sure gonna try, though!
JanI'm glad the weekend festivities went well! Your luncheon for your teachers sounds wonderful- which doesn't surprise me, having sampled your wonderful cuisine!! I think you are right about some people and low fat foods- they have the "more is better" theory, and lose sight of the fact that low fat foods can still have plenty of calories! How was the shark? Does it really taste like mahimahi (which I LOVE, by the way!). Give my best to your dh and dad, please- I think of them often, and how much fun we all had on our weekend with you folks.
Joyce, you are in my thoughts and prayers today!!!
Saara, where are you? Did you survive the May Day festivities?
Hooked, how are things with you?

Oh- I don't remember if I mentioned this- my dd joined WW again last week- her first weigh in will be today. Her husband is doing the program too. I'm really glad they did.
I know I was over my points yesterday. Just as I was about to fix my planned low point dinner, my exdh called and asked me if I'd drive him to the dealership to pick up the car he bought. It's about a half hour away, and it was about 5:30 when he called, so he bought me dinner as a thank you. What I had would have been okay if I'd planned for it earlier in the day- but such is life. As seldom as I get out to dinner, especially when someone else pays for it, I wasn't about to say no!!:lol:Today's another day.
I've got to run- work calls. I'm definitely not in the moos today!!! Oh well!! It's a short day due to my doctor's appointment, anyhow. Have a good op day, everyone!
Carol

Morning everyone!

Jan : i just have to say that lunch sounds dellish! Do you think you can overnight a care package to me?LOL!
And the shark sounds great, too. But I have never heard of grilling oysters. Do you place them right on the racks or do you steam them?

Carol: I am wih you about those free meals. I have two rules...never turn down a free meal and never turn down an offer of taking home leftovers. Can you tell I am not a good cook?

Patti: I also got a chuckle about "GRITS". I will remember it the next time I talk to one of our southern customers.

Ijust have to tell eveyone about my experience last night at a local hardware store. I was picking up a small lawn mower (my brother advised me that I get one so I can cut the areas where my riding mower can't get to)
Anyway, I went to the loading dock to pick it up and the 20 something gentleman asked me if I wanted a demonstration of how it worked. I politely said no, I was familiar with pulling the cord (and mind you this is a very simple one with no additional bells and whistles) Anyway, he then informed me that I might want to reconsider since it it more complicated than that. Again I politely refused, to which he replied,"do you have anyone at home who could help you when you can't figure it out?"
Holding my tongue, I again just thanked him politely, and then he made the comment "well at least remember to put gas and oil in before you start" Mind you my car, which also requires both, was sitting next to us, but I refrained from pointing out that I was familiar with the concept of adding gas and oil to a piece of equiptment.
Then he said, well good luck getting it out of the trunk. I just smiled, and drove away thinking of the girl that he will meet someday that will hopefully straighten him out. These youngsters!

Gotta run. Hi to everyone I didn't mention. Have a great day

Good Morning,

Well I almost didn't go to weigh in last night - I though I had probably gained - but I decided to go and face the music anyway. And I LOST 1.4 lbs!! Even with the fast food. I'm glad I decided to go because I would have been thinking all week that I had gained. It was a great surprise! My total is now 20.8 for 9 weeks. Next week at our meeting we are going to exchange recipes and someone is bringing a lowfat recipe for crawfish fettucine alfredo - yum. I'll pass on any good ones that I get. I also found out where to get Skinny Cow ice cream sandwiches here - finally. Lots of people at this site rave about them, but I could never find them. I'm heading to Albertson's tonight to get some.

JanetMae - that chicken enchilada casserole sounds great. I love Mexican food. That is my favorite, then Chinese.

Carol - I pray to St. Anthony alot - I'm FOREVER losing things. They did a little segment on the news on how people in New Orleans (predominently Catholic) pray to the Saints for different things. Did you ever hear of single women praying to St. Anne (St. Anne, St. Anne send me a man)? I had never heard of THAT one!!!

Yes, my son is loving every minute of being out of school. Of course, he has changed his availability at the movie theater where he works, so he'll be working almost full time in the summer. But he really loves that job. We got all of the boys in his immediate group of friends little happy face anetnna balls with graduation caps for them to put on their cars - they love them!! And guess what - I don't have to buy a thing to wear for the mass and graduation!! I have a cream colored suit and a green dress that I haven't worn in forever but they are really cute and they fit me perfect!!!!! I am so excited, especially since I have money going in all directions already right now.

I know your DD and her hubby will do great on WW. I think it is the best program I've ever been on!

Liz - WOW 6 pounds!!! Great Loss!!! You must've been thrilled. You're doing wonderful.

Well, I've gotta run. Hi to everyone I didn't mention. Gotta work and then I have to go and pick up the rest of my DS's wallet photos to send out his announcements. I'll talk to y'all later.

Take Care,
Patti

Thanks to all for remembering me! I have been sicker than a dog! The high winds in Utah blew up some crap that stuck in my system for 10 days! I think it turned to a sinus infection, then to my throat & lungs. My ears are still ringing, but I feel better.

I only lost .6 lbs. on my last weigh in. Some how I feel bad about that, but at least it was a loss! (It just happens that it is the smallest loss I've had.)

Do most of you excercise on the WW program? If so, how many points to do shoot for? I think that is why I didn't lose as much last week because I only had 3 points.

I love to read all of your posts! I'll try to post more later!
STAMPS!

Hi everyone! How was your Tuesday? We had a beautiful spring day, with a nice low pollen count for once!
Liz, yup- never turning down a free meal over the years is probably why I was, proir to WW, more than 100 pounds overweight!!:rolleyes: Hey- now that you're losing weight, maybe that 20 year old guy at the lawn mower store had the hots for you!! :lol:
Patti, congrats on your 1.4 pound lss and your terific 20.8 total loss!!! Other than St. Anthony, I only have a working knowledge of St. Christopher and St. Jude- but they come in handy! My dad was raised Catholic but my mom wasn't and I am not, but a few of the saints trickled down to me. How great that you'll be able to wear that dress to graduation- your hard work has paid off already!!
Stamps, I'm sorry you've been so sick- take it easy as you recuperate so you don't relapse!! Congrats on the .6 pound loss. I don't do much exercise due to medical restrictions- wish I could, because I think it would help me off my 97 pound loss plateau!
JOYceI'm thinking about you, girl!!

Speaking of losses, my dd had her weigh in today after being in WW 1 week- she lost 4.2 pounds! She was really happy, because she tried hard. She likes her WW leader too, so that should help.

My own day was less gratifying. I had my followup orthopedic appointment for my back, and it was less than encouraging. Without boring you all with details, let's just say I was not a happy camper. Tomorrow's my routine mammogram- hopefully that will be a little more cheering!

Hi to everyone. Talk to you all later.
Carol

Morning everyone!

Patti: I was laughing when I read your post about praying to the Saints. I think I will start chanting the St Anne one. I feel like I am ready to begin the dating scene again. (maybe the hint was that I check out every guy who passes for the presence of a wedding ring and a good butt)

Stamps: I hope you are feeling better. Take it easy and really take the time to get well. To answer your excercise question. When I first started the ww program I got in the habit of excercising first thing in the morning. I get out of bed, throw my excercise clothes on. I used to have a cup of coffee and then jump right into excercising. Now that I commute I do the same thing except I am drinking it while I drive. My company has a membrship at a y near my job so I go there workout, shower and go right to work. Even though I kind of took a year off the program (still went to meetings but had a difficult time staying op) I never stopped excercising. I credit this with the fact that I only gained back 25 lbs back and not the 75 I really deserved.

Carol: congrats to you dd on her weight loss. And take care of that back. I think I told everyone before that I have dropped foot now because I ignored my back injury.

Gotta run. Hi to everyone I missed. Have a great day

Good afternoon, ladies. Almost time to call it a day here at the office and, of course, there is a raging summer storm going on outside. I cannot tell you how I am looking forward to the drive home - NOT! It will take FOREVER!!!!!

Stamps - Hope you are feeling better by now. As for exercise, I am like CArol. Anytime I start to try to do something, my back gives out. I was so excited about my treadmill but found it didn't take long for the same old pain to return. So I don't do too much in the way of official excercise. But congrats on your loss this week. It may have been a small one, but a loss is a loss!

Liz - Am :lol: about the guy and the lawnmower. Gee, these guys need to realize that we ladies are perfectly capable of taking care of ourselves! I am sure some sweet young 90's girl will take care of that someday!

Carol - Sorry your doctor didn't have better news for you concerning your back. What are his recommendations - besides the obvious, of course. I am thrilled for your dd and her loss this week! It's a great start for her!

JOYce - We are still thinking about you. Check in when you can. Hope everything is OK.

Patti - I know how pleased you are to be able to wear something that didn't fit just a short time ago! I have found that I have to lose about 13 pounds to drop a size - and you have done much better than that. Whooo-hooo! You will be amazed at how much self-confidence you gain through your weight loss. Congratulations.

Rebecca, Janet & Sara - Where are you guys these past few days? Let us hear from you. We miss your posts.

Well, guess I will close up shop now and hit the very long road home. Yuck. Will check in again tomorrow.

Texaslady, hope your drive wasn't as bad as you thought; the Katy Freeway in a storm can't be much fun, though. I've found the same re: sizes, about 13 pounds a size. (Isn't it fun getting to rediscover and wear those smaller sizes in the back of the closet?)

Carol, that's great about your dd's big loss! But I'm sorry to hear the doctor's verdict on the back was not good; hope it'll be better soon. Thanks for the info on the new Kashi; will look for that next time we're in the city. Re: the shark, it was great, a lot like mahi mahi but thinner filets. And thanks, will pass on your greetings to Dad and DH; they really enjoyed getting to meet you, Texaslady and Janet! Would love to do that again some day.

Liz, that's hilarious about checking out the guys ... and you're right, I think that's a sign, too. It's so great that your company has that Y membership, and so close to work too! I'm like you, mornings are the best time to fit in exercise. What a funny story about lawn mower boy! Guess he was disappointed that he didn't get to show off his vast expertise in his field, huh? I sometimes run across those types in my job, too, who can't get it through their heads that a woman can know as much (or more) about technology as they do. What's really hilarious is when they start spouting nonsense in a very authoritative tone, expecting to impress everyone in earshot. Re: the oysters, we put them in an open tin foil boat, and set that on the grill, so in a way they're steamed and smoked. My Dad could eat a gallon of them (though he'd rather have them fried!).

Patti, congrats on the 1.4 lost! That's great! The suit sounds lovely, and what a thrill it must have been to try it on and have it fit! Way to go ...

Stamps, so sorry you're not feeling good; take it easy, ok? Re: the exercise, I usually do 3 miles at a fast walk (with a few wind sprints) early each morning, on the highway. About 3-4 times a week, I also do free weights (just 10 pounds, though) in a short upper body routine my sister made up for me. (She's a physical therapist and is now starting a side business as a personal trainer.) I can't tell you how much of a difference just that little bit makes, just 45 minutes a day. I'm less stressed, my bp is terrific now, lower resting heart rate, and much more stamina. I'm sleeping better too. But I do know WW lifetime members who say they never exercise, and they have kept the weight off successfully. Congrats on your loss! Doesn't sound small to me, and any loss is a good loss! Take care of yourself, now, and get better!

Saara, hope your summer is off to a good start! How is that border seminar going?

Janet, hope all is well in Mississippi!

Guess I'd better get on home; stayed a bit late at work to catch up on stuff, since I spent most of today taking Dad to one of his doctors. (Good news, for a change, at least in that one area!) Went to WW last night, and lost the .8 weight I had gained the week before, so I'm still in a holding pattern. My doctor was pleased with what I'd lost since the previous visit, but I've got to revv this process up a bit or I'll be supporting ww the rest of my life! ;)

Regards,
Jan

Good morning. I can't believe the week is almost over already!
Liz, who is St. Anne?? Good luck on reenetering the dating scene. I for one don't want any parts of it! I figure anyone my age who's datable probably has more emotional baggage than I want to deal with at this point in my life!:lol: Besides, even tho I'm separated for 6 years, most men wouldn't compare favorably with my exdh! I'd forgotten about your foot drop from your back. I "drag" one leg some again, and have some weakness in the "good" leg now too, I discovered at the doctor this week. Unfortunately, unless I win the lottery, I can't totally hold to all the restrictions he puts on me, since I live alone and support myself!
Texaslady, how was your commute in the summer storm? I know it had to be harrowing at best!! I hate to drive in heavy rain! Hope today's forecast is better! My doctor, who is very conservative but mentioned the dreaded "S" word as a real possibility, is going to try epidural steroid injections. It's done at the hospital by the anesthesiologist and I'll have 3 at weekly intervals. It's outpatient, but the rest of the day I have one, and possibly the following day, are shot as far as work goes, he said. He's hoping these will help the weakness and decreased reflexes in my legs. It might or might not help the back pain, but that's no big deal. I hope it works, because I can't have surgery- no leave to speak of, and I sure can't afford to be off without pay!! It's a worry.
Jan, the shark sounds good!! I'm glad your dad's doctor vsit went well. Congrats on the .8 weight loss!!!

Does anyone have any special plans for the Mother's Day weekend? My sil, exdh and little sweetie are taking my dd and me out to a mid day dinner at a nice restaurant about 1/2 hour from here. Should be fun- like Liz said, I "never turn down a free meal":D. Other than that' I'm planning on being a vegetable, if I can stand it! I don't do "Sit! Stay!" well at all!:lol:
Gotta run- I have a long work day today, so I need to kick it into gear! Have a great day, everyone.
Carol

Morning everyone!

Carol: I am keeping my fingers crossed about those shots. Mone of my friend's husband had them and he said that the results were amazing. He avoid surgery altogether. I hope your mother's day meal is great. Unfortunately I don't think my cats have anything planned for me.

Jan: thanks for the oyster instructions. I haven't started the grill yet, but plan to this weekend. I just love veggies on the grill. Do you do them also? Do you make the foil boats with them too or place them right on the rack?

TexasLady: Hope you made it home without too much trouble. But could you send a little of the rain our way? My plants could use them.

Patti: I was thinking of you this morning and our discussion about accents. One of the NYC radio stations was doing prank calls. They were calling people from the south and pretending they were Tony Soprano. They would use clips from the show and pretend that they were looking for someone. It was quite funny (I do hope they called those people back and gave them something free for bothering them) About half of them couldn't understand the New Jersey accent., but what really struck me was how polite everyone was. Around here they would have been hung up on a lot sooner than they were.

Gotta get my day started. Hi to everyone that I didn't mention

Hi All!!

How is everyone doing? OP I hope!!!

Hooked - I hope yu are feeling better. I suffer horribly from sinus infections and I know how they can knock me down!!

Liz - Yeah, I wish I had known about St. Anne too. I was divorced for 10 years before I met my husband and my son kept praying for me to find him a new Daddy. He was 3 when his Dad and I divorced and his Dad moved out of state. He used to say "Mom, Jesus must be picking a really good one" and I'd ask why he thought that and he'd say, "because he's taking a LONG time"!!! But it was well worth it - I got a winner this time.

You know I have to admit that I can personally attest to the old "Southern hospitality" idea. People down here are definetly friendly and willing to help when they can. I know New Orleans gets some bad publicity but I love it here and I'm proud to say I am from here.

Carol - That was great about your DD's weigh in, she must have been excited. Hope you get some relief from your back problems.

We are supposed to go to my MIL's for Mother's Day. Mother's Day just hasn't been the same for me since I lost my sweet Mom almost 7 years ago. We were more like sisters and she was only 57 when she died. I still think of her daily and whenever I am down - the first person that I long for is my Mom.

Tomorrow is my 5th wedding anniversary, but DH is working night shift so our dinner celebration will have to wait. I want to wait until after graduation because I want to go and spend a night at the Beau Rivage Casino/Hotel on the Gulf Coast and see River Dance. After graduation I'll be $1000 a month richer, with not having to pay 2 school notes and child support every month. Yay!!!!

Well, in case I don't get back before the weekend - Everyone have a great weekend and Happy Mother's Day to all the Moms!!!

Take Care,
Patti

Good Morning Everyone!

Sorry I have been gone for the last week, but I have been sicker than a dog. My spring cold for the year, hopefully! So I have been trying to fight this crud for the last week. It has been awful. But I think I am finally on the up side of it. But now my husband is fighting it too. It is almost gone for him, it just seems to linger for me. Oh well.

We did go fishing on the weekend, in rain no less. I mostly sat in the truck while my husband and his friend fished. Oh well, I got in a lot of reading. :D

Missed my meeting this week, since I was sick. And have been missing exercise for the same reason. Argh! Soon I will be back on track.

But I better go all. You all have a great week and I will talk to you later.

Rebecca :cool:

Hi everyone. Sorry that I haven't posted this week, but I have been lurking and have really enjoyed reading all the posts. Congratulations to everyone who has reported losses. I haven't reported mine (although I am losing) because I decided to weigh only once a month. I think this will work much better for me...that is if I can keep away from the scale. I was used to weighing everyday, so this has been quite an adjustment...but so far so good. I have been staying OP everyday, even through all of our various graduation activities, and I can tell I'm losing in my clothes and in how I feel. I'll report my monthly loss at the end of May.

Rebecca, I hope you and your DH feel better soon. This past week, I have felt like I was trying to catch a cold so I have been trying to go to bed early and drink lots of fluids, but I still don't feel great. Summer colds are the worst! I'm glad you got to go fishing even if you did have to spend most of your time in the truck. My neighbors fish in a lot of bass tournaments, and they have promised to take me fishing soon. I can't wait...I love to fish. It's one of the most relaxing things I can think of.

Patti, HAPPY ANNIVERSARY! Be sure to let us know if you go to see River Dance. We had houses on the coast when I was growing up, and I loved it down there and try to get back as often as I can. I haven't been to the Beau Rivage yet, but I have heard it is beautiful. We didn't get to see River Dance when it was in Jackson recently, but I did take DD to see Lord of the Dance last year. It was absolutely fantastic, and I have heard that River Dance is even better. It was funny because yesterday as I was reading your post about getting your son's announcements, I was sitting at my desk putting pictures into DD's graduation invitations. They should have already been in the mail, and most of them are, but I still have a few more to do. It's only a little more than two weeks until graduation. I thought about you the other night when my daughter was talking about the bands that she wants to see during Jubilee Jam (a local music festival). One of the first bands she mentioned was Cowboy Mouth. I may just have to tag along! :)

Liz, you were much nicer to that salesman than I would have been. The older I get, the harder I am finding it to bite my tongue. Since my divorce a few years ago, I have learned to do so much, including replacing a disposal, working on plumbing, vehicles and lawn equipment. I admit that they are things I would rather not have to worry about, but I had to learn out of necessity...and it has given me a huge feeling of accomplishment. I was very dependent when I got divorced...after going from my daddy to boyfriends to my husband. I had always had men taking care of me, but I am fiercely independent now and even if I remarry I hope that doesn't change. I like being able to take care of myself without depending on anyone to help, although sometimes I do long for the old days. I agree with some of the others though...I think he may have been flirting with you. I cracked up when I read about you being ready to date again. I think that is a definite sign when you start noticing wedding rings and butts! :D :D It took me awhile to be ready and it felt very strange after being with my ex-husband for so long, but after awhile it was fun.

Speaking of ex-husbands, I think I am going to have to take mine back to court. I hate it, but he isn't leaving me much choice. I have had DD's car (that I had to buy by myself) in the shop and he finally told me today that he wasn't going to help pay for the repairs (said DD should pay for it) and he also told me that he isn't going to help pay for college. He thinks his child support check should cover it. I won't bore y'all with the details, but it brought back very bad memories as I talked to my old lawyer today. She is going to petition the court for a date, but it will probably be sometime in November before we can go...tution is due in August. Sometimes it is hard for me to remember what it was that I loved about this person who I was with for 20 years. :rolleyes:

That was hilarious about the NYC radio station and the prank calls. I would have loved to hear that. Not to say that people in other areas of the country aren't nice, but I have always thought that was one of the charms of the south...people are very polite. When I first started dating my old boyfriend who was originally from New York, I can remember him telling me that he couldn't get over how everybody here spoke to everybody else on the street. He would say "do you know them?" :lol: He said in New York people would wonder what you were up to or what you wanted from them. I was hooting at your poison ivy prevention tactics too. I loved how you put your "poison" clothes into the plastic bags everytime you went inside. That sounds exactly like what I would do. When I had it all over me, I would take a shower and then I would use lots of towels. I didn't want to dry parts of my body that were "poison ivy free" with a towel that had touched my poison ivy. For two weeks, it seemed all I did was put medicine on my "spots" and wash towels.

Stamps, I hope you are feeling better too. The "crud" has been making the rounds here and people are having a really hard time getting over it. To answer your exercise question, that is something that I haven't been doing lately. I used to go three or four times a week to water aerobics. I loved it. I could make it as intense or as easy as I wanted, and water aerobics raises your metabolism for a longer period of time afterwards than land aerobics. It is just so hard for me to get to the gym. My DD has been going to a park and walking almost everyday and I want to start doing that on a regular basis with her, but with her going to college I don't know how that would work. Actually, I have a treadmill right in my bedroom, but right now it is a clothes rack. I like it, but it's just not the same as being outside in the fresh air. Exercise is definitely something that I need to work on, and I could use the activity points.

I just got called to a meeting, but I will finish posting when I get back!

Janet (Kudzu)

Carol, you are so much like my sister (in Florida) it's amazing; y'all just can't sit still and do nothing! Gee, that's one of my favorite nonactivities! I'm so sorry that you're having to take all these precautions, though; sure hope those new treatments work for you, and turn this around. Enjoy your Mother's Day luncheon! (I know you will, esp. with your little sweetie there.)

Liz, have fun cooking out this weekend! Re: the veggies, we use a little metal basket with holes in it, kind of a wok designed for the grill, for smaller veggies, and a flat version of the same for larger ones. It's easier to wash, and the veggies can't fall through. I think we bought them at WalMart or World Imports (Cost Plus).

Patti, I know just how you feel; I lost my Mom too young, 8 years ago, so this weekend isn't easy for me either. We were very close. I'm glad you're getting to be with your mil, though. And what great news about your anniversary celebration; sounds like lots of fun!

Rebecca, so sorry to hear you were ill, but glad you're getting the better of it now. Don't forget to drink lots of water; that'll help both the cold and program. Sorry you had to miss out on the fishing! Your husband and his friend must really love fishing, to go out in the rain; smart of you to stay dry inside the truck!

Janet, how wonderful that you're making such progress; I really admire you for staying OP through all those graduation activities! Sorry to hear about the troubles with ex-dh; sure hope he'll come to his senses sooner than next fall, and do his share to help your daughter. Of all times to flake out on her, just when she's starting college!

Re: this weekend, will probably just try to catch up on work; next week is incredible, with 4 project presentations, 2 banquets (uh oh), several deadlines, doctor's appt., and our faculty bbq. Whew. If I don't get a running start, I'll never make it through the week OP.

Everyone have a great Friday tomorrow! Hi to Saara, Stamps, and Texaslady ...
Regards,
Jan

Good morning ladies! TGIF!!
Liz, thanks for the encouraging words on the epidural steroid injections. Now if we can just get the insurance approval red tape speeded up so I can get on with it!! I'm sure your kitties will give their "mommy" great hugs for mother's day!!!!
Patti OK you guys- will you or Liz please tell me who St. Anne is? :?: I hope you have a wonderful 5th anniversary! Your upcoming plans to see Riverdance sound wonderful! I too always have a feeling on sadness on Mother's Day, although my mother died 28 years ago when she was 63. I was only 26 at the time, and my dd not quite 4. She missed so many happy times. And I sure would hve liked her advice and shoulder for the most difficult times in my life.
Rebecca, I'm sorry you've been so ill!!! That nasty viral stuff has been going around here too. The doctor I work for has been sick as a dog with it too- she's had a fever for over 6 days. She keeps working, because as an allergist this is her busy season, but if it were one of us, she's have us home in bed. I hope both you and your dh feel better soon! Please be sure to get some rest!
Janet, congrats on the looser clothes and on staying op, and for losing the daily scale obsession that can roadblock all of us! Take care of that cold!!! I'm sorry your ex is being such a pain- I have this theory about him (actually, I've had it for some time based on a few things you've told me). I'll spare you, since I'm probably wrong, but I'm not surprised he's pulled this on you! I :lol: at your description of your treadmill being a clothes rack. For the time being my Torso Track has had to become an underbed dust catcher- not by choice!!! Wanna trade? I think I could walk a little on a treadmill, but I'm not sure enough to go buy one! :D
Jan, I'd really like to meet your sister one day! She's not the one who's a physical therapist, is she? I hope you have a relaxing, enjoyable weekend so you can rest up for your hectic week ahead!! WHEW!! I got tired just reading about it!!:lol: If you have the pretty wekend we are suposed to have, I'll bet your ranch will be a nice place to be!! I'm so sorry we didn't get a chance to see it on our visit.
Joyce, how are you doing? You are in my thoughts and praters for a speedy recovery.
Saara, where are you? How was the May Day celebration?
Hi to Stamps and Texaslady, and anyone I may have missed! Have a wonderful weekend, everyone!
Carol

I think I'm going to make it! :lol:
My problem was much less than the doctor was looking for, so the procedure was short. I'm just now getting some strength back, maybe because I'm an old lady!

It's been great for Melissa to be able to drive them to school and a few other things. dh left for a fishing trip on thursday, but he is on his way home again... he had trouble with the trailer, a tire blew out and messed up all the wiring underneath, so it is tied up for a few days getting repaired. he and ds will come back here and do some deepsea fishing instead of going on to Idaho. He was picking up ds in Las Vegas where he had gone to attend my stepmom's memorial service. It made me even sicker that I was not able to atttend, but was glad I had my ds to represent me.

Forgive me for not responding to each of your posts, you have been a busy group the last week!

I haven't lost the weight that I thought I would with having to fast for a day, and then being sickly! grrr! but haven't gained any either. I turned down lots of offers for people to bring in meals, {which was probably a good thing!} I did accept a meal from a friend who called the day I got home from the hosp.., and then today, Linda wanted to bring dinner for Casie and me. It was delicious!
Melissa is out getting her nails done for tomorrow's prom!
Today at school, they announced the "Senior Bests" Melissa and her boyfriend were voted "the cutest couple!"
she is glowing!!!
June 14th is graduation, then she is thru!!and off to community college for Teacher prep classes.

gotta go!! I'm rambling!! It's been so long!!
~~~
:wave:
Joyce

Joyce, I'm so glad things went well and more easily than anticipated, and that you are on the mend!! Sorry to hear about your stepmom- how great that your dh filled in for you! Please continue to take it easy and look out for Joyce for a change!!!
Carol

Hey,

I'm still around. I'm sorry I've been gone for so long... the May Day parties were all fun, we served just potato salad and pasta salad, but they were a huge success. The weather has been absolutely great for the past 2 weeks so I haven't felt like sitting in a computer lab. I've been trying to stay outdoors as much as I can. I've been also working almost every day.

There's a small chance that I still will get the placement for next year. I'm just waiting to hear from the coordinator. She called me a few days ago and said that it seems that I might be offered a place at University of Utah. Does anyone have any thoughts about this institution? Well, they do have the winter olympics next year, so I'm sure I'd be thrilled to be there... but it's all still very very uncertain, I hope they let me know soon. As soon as I know I'll tell you all.

I'm so sorry that I don't have time to write more, but I'll try to check in again soon. I hope all of you have a wonderful Mother's Day! :love: saara.

Since we're on the secone page, I'll start a new thread. Come on over, everyone!
Carol