WW Clubs and Groups - 50 or more pounds #66

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

Found this tip on the "Food and Point Issues" thread, and we tried it; it worked great! Since we've talked about the No Pudge brownies here before, thought I'd pass it along:

For one serving (2 pt) brownie, combine 2 T brownie mix and 1 T yogurt in a custard cup or microwave safe teacup. Microwave for one minute exactly.

It worked! (I mixed it in a separate cup, sprayed the custard cup w/Pam, and spooned the mixture inSomeone else said she did the same with regular brownie mix. And here I'd stopped making No Pudge brownies, because I couldn't stop at one when I made a whole panfull ...

Everyone have a great OP day!

Jan

Another quick post to say HI!
Still busy with work, studying and all this paperwork stuff... I just received some stuff from Utah today, and now I have to fill in my housing application and contract. Also I have to start looking into what kind of classes to take... whew, I have no idea, yet. I guess I have to email my advisors at the U of Utah.

well, I have 6 days off after tomorrow, and will be going to a rockfestival this weekend. This is my only 'vacation' this summer, and I'm so excited!!! :) All of you Moms, don't worry, I will behave and won't drink too much. ;)

I have a little problem, I'd like you guys to help me with. I have to choose a meal plan, so would you check out: www.orl.utah.edu/dining.html and comment whether I should pick plan 19, 15, 12 or 10. The price doesn't make a difference, but I'm just more concerned about this all-you-can-eat thing, and I don't know if it would be better to have less meals at the cafeteria and have those 'flex dollars' and buy stuff with them from the store... (I think I unrestood correctly that this is what you can do)

Well, I have to run again. But I would be most grateful for all your help! :love: Saara.

Hi Everyone,

Well the rain is gone. We did not get any in my Dad's house but my neighborhood gets flooded so that you can't get in or out. It was just miserable. Well, I went to the GYN yesterday, said everything looks fine, probably just perimenopause. DUH!! I was so worked up by the time they put me in the room though, that my blood pressure was really up. It was 160/100!!! It is usually a little high and I didn't have my medicine all weekend so that also had something to do with it I'm sure. My sister took it again yesterday evening and it was 140/90. He was very happy to see that I lost 22 lbs.

Beth - Hope your water has gone away by now too!! I don't know if I could have passed up that Remoulade, I love that stuff. We got a whole ice chest of shrimp last week and I would love to make some but that is really dangerous.

Janet - The corporate office for Entergy is in New Orleans. I've been here 15 years. I know lots of people that work in Jackson. Valerie Gaines, Becky England, Kathy Stephens to name a few. My son is doing fine, but will be doing much better when he gets his car back - maybe by Thursday. We were at the mall the other day and he was buying some shorts and T-shirts and I said, You know, Matt, you can wear this stuff to school when you start, and he looked at me and started grinning and nodding his head and said "OOOOHHHH Yea" He is just thrilled that there will be no more uniforms.

Carol - still sending prayers your way.....Keep your spirits up.
LOVED the "hairspray" story. I would have been screaming!!!
I've done that before but with deodorant - YUCK!!

Liz - try to stay upbeat. I know going back to dating is very scary. I did it after being single for quite a few years. But the vibes you give off have alot to do with it. I was much slimmer back then, but still had self esteem issues and my good friend finally told me that I made myself unapproachable!!! She said I looked miserable when we went out and who wants to talk to a miserable person??? So I started getting myself psyched up and started smiling and looking like someone who anyone would like to have a conversation with and it worked wonders - I started getting asked to dance, sometimes even before my skinny friend. So really your attitude that you let show is what most people will look at.

Saara - you must really be excited about Utah. I always wanted to move to Utah when I was younger. Of course, I had a HUGE crush on Donny Osmond!!! But my Mom wouldn't allow me to move at 13, imagine that!!!

Merri - I know you are going to have a great time here. My son is going to a club in the French Quarter tonight to hear a concert by Alkaline Trio (??) at the Shim Sham Club (???) He is only 18 but they stamp the under 21's on the hand so they know who can drink and who can't.

Joyce - This whole not mentioning God, really gets me mad!!! Thank goodness all of our football games were against Parochial Schools because the priests lead everyone in prayer before each game. Well, I guess the federal govt. better start printing new money, because "in God we trust" is just not politically correct I guess!!!! My son's class had a baccalaureate Mass and it was a complete Mass.

Well I'd better go. Hi to everyone I missed.

Talk to you later,
Patti

Patti, so glad you had good news from your doctor, and that he was so pleased with the 22 pounds you've lost; sounds like you have a doctor who really cares! Good to hear that the waters have receded, too, and that your son will be getting his car back soon. Sounds like things are really looking up!

JOYce, almost missed your last post in the previous thread, sorry.. yep, we catch the scallops in Florida just off the west coast, where the Steinhatchee river flows out. Seems they like a little fresh water with the salt water. They're lots of fun to "catch," but hard to clean! Sounds like you and your mother had a good time together; I'm so glad that she likes her retirement home, too. An upbeat attitude like that will do wonders for her health, too!

Saara, I looked at those plans, but I'm not sure which one I'd choose in your shoes; you don't want to skip meals, of course, but you'd also want the flexibility to choose a different dining hall if you wanted to. Hmm. That 15 plan with flex dollars sounded good, since you might not be spending weekends on campus. You could still have 3 meals a day during the week with that, and use the flex dollars to compensate for the $ you'd spend off campus.

Guess I'd better get back to cleaning out this office! Everyone have a good evening ...

Jan

Boy, this has been an active group lately!! I hope everyone's had a good day.
Beth Your trip sounds fun! How did you and dh get interested in astronomy? A belated Happy Birthday to your youngest! Were you able to get to weigh in last night? I sure hope your water problems have subsided!
Linda , it's too bad about your sister's attitude- sounds like she's a bit jealous of your success! Good for you for having the spirit of forgiveness- as they say, life is too short, etc. Thanks for the prayers for piece of mind- I haven't gotten there yet- always a new problem or complication being added this week it seems :dizzy: ! Had to squeeze in my 2nd back infusion yesterday in the midst of everything else- my blood pressure was lower during that than it had been all week!:lol: Sad state of affairs when the most relaxing part of your week is having a large needle inserted in your spine!
Joyce , it sounds likeyou have a hectic week ahead!!! How does one get rid of baby skunks, or even walk past them, without incurring the wrath of bigger, more aromatic skunks?:eek:
Texaslady , I'm glad you made it safely to work, and that you had no water damage. I enjoyed talking to you!
Janet , how's the rain doing in your area? My cable's out so I haven't a clue what's going on in the world today! How sad about your nephew's minister's family! I hope we get a chance to talk in the next day or so.
Jan , boy, was I glad to hear from you! I was afraid something was seriously amiss! I'll bet you really miss your dad now that he's basking in Florida- but how nice that you'll have a little down time and time for just you and dh before your surgery! I'll be in Florida 6/29-7/4- hope to try to get to Homosassa again while there. Does your sister have a regular schedule? If so, if you can email me her name and when she works I'll try to look her up in the children's museum. When are you and dh going to San Francisco? I'm glad to know that trick with the No-Pudge works well- I had seen that posted somewhere a while ago, but never tried it. Now I think I will!
Saara , I'm glad you are going to keep your "mothers" happy while you are at the rockfestival this week!:lol: Have fun! Re the dining plan, I'd think the 10 or 15 plans would be best. This would enable you to eat in other dining areas aside from the main one. And evn 10 meals a week is 2 meals a day, 5 days a week. I'll bet that most days you wouldn't be eating more than 2 meals a day in the cafeteria anyhow- 19 a week would be a waste. Anyhow, that's MHO, which is worth little if anything!
Patti , glad the house was okay!!! I know it made you feel good that your doctor was pleased with the 22 pound loss! And the more you lose, the better your blood pressure will be! I've sprayed deoderant on my hair before too- and have nearly brushed my teeth lith hand cream!:rolleyes:

Ladies, I'd better run. I need to work on getting myself a ride to and from my surgery Friday, and people can't call me back if I'm online!
Thanks again to all of you for your continued thoughts, prayers, hugs and good vibes!
Carol

Hello Ladies!!!!

How goes everything?? I thought I would send a note before things got hectic around here... I had weigh in today and unfortunately gained 2 pounds :nono: . I guess that cheesecake & pizza caught up to my hips!! I am going to try to stay on program until I leave next Monday. I have a feeling I might step off program when I get down to New Orleans. I think you guys might get a kick out of this I started tanning this week and of course theres this really hot guy that works there and I forgot to lock the door and he walked right in on me while I was getting dressed of course he saw my big old butt!! :o :o Then I go again today and was in there way too long and got a little too red!!

NawlinsLady What other clubs are good down there.... I got one of those tourist books and it just lists the gay clubs and seeing I'm not I may have a problem... How hot is it down there??

Carol and Jan can you guys show us your 3fc get together pics I want to see what ya'all look like. So I can put a name with a face....

Well, I better let you guys go....

Merri24
236/211/140

Merri, I sent you a private message on how to access my photo site. If you don't get it, let me know and I'll ty again.
Carol

Hello Ladies :wave:

The rain has stopped and we are finally drying out around here. There is still quite a bit of water around but the roads are open and I was able to get out today. Since there was no WW meeting around here today, I am going to weigh in tomorrow afternoon. I have done so well this week and I am anxious to see the scale.

Merri - You are braver than I am! I'm not sure I would have the nerve to show my face (or other body parts :D ) again at that tanning place! How long will you be staying in New Orleans? We DO have some great food here but if you plan it right you can still stay on program. But then again, how often do you get to eat great Canjun and Creole foods? Just have a great time and deal with it later! :devil:

Carol - My husband is the one who got started in astronomy. He always wanted a telescope. Since the kids are basically out of the way now and there's no more tuition to pay we invested in a really nice scope. We belong to an amateur astronomy club and go to "star parties" a couple of times a year. I hear there will be a "star party" at the Grand Canyon the week we are in Arizona. I think we might make that trip to the Canyon next year and attend the star party. We have pretty dark skies where we live (in the country away from city lights) but I know the skies in Arizona will be awesome!

Janet - What an awful story about the Music Minister's family! :( It's a reminder of how quickly our lives can change and that we need to count our blessings and thank God for the gifts He has given us.

Saara - I think probably the 15 meal plan would be best. College cafeterias usually have salad bars which wouldn't be too bad. Sometimes the alternative places to eat on campus have lots of fattening things like pizza and burgers. Campus food is not known for being very healthy. :(

Patti - I have the recipes from the food fest and the Remoulade sauce for that shrimp recipe probably could be converted to low points. All it has is mayonnaise, Zatarain's creole mustard, chopped celery, chopped green onions, and lemon juice. You season to taste with Tony's, Lea & Perrins, and Louisiana Hot Sauce. I'll bet you could make it with light or fat free mayonnaise and it would be just as good.
Glad you made out OK with the rain.


Jan - What is no pudge brownies? The recipe sounds great. I'm a terrible chocoholic! :eek: I'm not sure I could handle eating just one. It would be too easy to make another!

Hello to everyone else!! Hope you all have a great OP Wednesday. :)

Beth

:dizzy:
Maybe I'm really losing my mind!!!
I read too fast, I guess, and missed Jan's remark about starting a new thread, so posted on the old one!
This on top of thinking I have lost 12 pounds instead of 6!!
Maybe I better slow down and take a deeeep breath!
I'm glad to see a couple of you read it anyhow.

Carol, I don't know that you CAN get around skunks, without enduring their wrath! It is better to just wait them out. sprinkling chili powder in the flowerbeds, seems to stop them from digging there, though.

Merri I will send you a PM with my home page. My picture is under "Family". do you have a picture of you available?

I must say good night, will try to catch up tomorrow.

~~~~~
:wave:
Joyce

Hi Girls,

Just a quick note - I'm waaaay behind on work. Wanted to respond to a couple of people.

Merri - it is pretty hot here - upper 80's, and the humidity is pretty bad. Some other places that are pretty good and in the French Quarter: Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville Cafe, Tipitina's, Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro, The Howlin' Wolf, and of course Pat O'Brien's (for Hurricanes) and there's always the House of Blues. They also just opened a placed called the Mardi Gras Cafe (it used to be Planet Hollywood). Now, mind you I haven't been to all of these, but these seem to be the most popular. And if there is ANY way you have time to stand in line for it, you should try to go to eat at Galatoire's (pronounced Gal-a-twa's for you non cajuns) on Bourbon, I have never been there either, but from what I hear it is a must do. The line is always pretty long when I've passed there but nobody seems to mind standing in it. Hope you have a great time.

Beth - Thanks for the ingredients, I think I will try it with the Miracle Whip Free. I have loads of shrimp and they are beautiful. I grilled some on my George Foreman Grill with some onions and peppers and it was wonderful.

Well, I'll try to get on again later.

Take care,
Patti

Carol, that is pretty amazing that your BP was low when you got your back injection! I know it must not be any fun to get those, but if even the first one started helping, surely the series will do wonders. Be sure to let us know as soon as you can how things go on Friday! Re: Florida, I'll email you her name. She usually works there every Sunday morning, but I'll ask her about her schedule during those days. I know she'd love to meet you!

Merri, this may sound weird, but sometimes it's actually a good thing to have a small gain after straying from program. When the results don't show up until a couple of weeks later, it's too easy to think we've gotten away with it! At least, that's how my mind works, silly me ... Y'all have a great time in New Orleans! And I agree, you should definitely sample all the fantastic cuisine there. But maybe you can use this trick my dh and I use when we travel: we order either from the appetizer menu, or we share an order between us. Also, we ask for substitutions for ordinary stuff like french fries and onion rings that seem to come with *everything* nowadays. If they won't substitute veggies or fruit for the fries, we just ask that they be left off. Drinking lots of water will also help, especially in this Southern heat!

Beth, No Pudge is a brand of brownie mix that you can get at Trader Joe's, some H-E-B stores, and maybe at some specialty stores. Or it can be ordered at their website, http://www.nopudge.com , I think... Glad the water has subsided, and that you'll be able to get to a WW mtg after all! I know you'll have a good loss!

JOYce, I didn't know that about chili powder and skunks; thanks! We have lots of skunks around here ...

Patti, the shrimp sounded so good; that Foreman grill is terrific, isn't it? Speaking of sauces for shrimp, have you ever tried those Alfredo mixes (can't think of the brands right now, but will look ...) that you can make with skim milk and no butter, for one point per serving? They work great with shrimp and mushrooms; we made that just a few nights ago.

Hi to everyone; hope you have a great Wednesday!
Regards,
Jan

Hi girls. Just wanted to check in for a few minutes.

Carol - Just wanted you to know that you are still in my heart and in my prayers. I didn't know you had decided to do the injection before the biopsy! What a week for you.... Please try to keep up your spirits although I know how difficult that is.

Merri - I also sent you a pm about my photos. Some are the same as Carol's but some are different. Please check them out if you want.

Joyce - Guess you are immersed in graduation activities! It is such a fun time - tell Melissa congrats for all her accomplishments.

Beth - That star party at the canyon sounds wonderful! But I wouldn't be able to stop looking at the canyon long enough to look up in the sky! Or well, I guess when the sun has gone down, you can't see the canyon anyway. It is so amazing. Don't you sometimes wonder what went through the mind of our country's early explorers when they "came upon" the canyon during their trek west!! :D

I have been offered a new job. Actually, I am thinking about taking it but I really hate to leave the people I work with here! My job has slowed so much since we lost one of our big clients and I really don't have much to do (As you can tell from my regular daytime posting in here!). This new position would be a little different than anything I have done but is in the same field. I have been agonizing over whether to take it or not, and I must make a decision soon! :?: What you do girls think I should do? Its a little bit more money (not much) and the hours are a little better (7:30 to 4:00). It's about the same distance for a commute, too. I know the office manager there, which is how this all came about. Gosh, I am going nuts with this! I have made some great friends here, but I just don't feel challenged anymore.

Mom is having another lens replacement in her eye tomorrow morning. Hopefully this one will go a little better than the last one!! You will remember how disappointed she was when her vision didn't improve as much as the doctor had promised.

About time to start back home so will check in again tomorrow.

texaslady It sounds to me, in reading between the lines, that you do know what to do.
Change is hard, but so good for you! It sounds to me like you want the challenge.
And yes, we are in the middle of the festivities! making sure everybody has their tickets to get in, etc...I still have to shop tonight for food for tomorrrow night. She would like to go out to dinner, but we only have about 2 hours between ceremony and when she has to go back to get on the bus to go to the all night grad night party. So we sill have a "buffet" here for family and friends that are going to the graduation.
Then her big party is Saturday nite at her boyfriends home, I'm doing half the food for 75-100 guests.

Good luck to your mom and her procedure! I pray that it will be successful!!

{{{{Carol}}}}}, How you doing? I'm thinking about you!

I must go get dinner started for the "troops"!

~~~~~~~~~~
:wave:
Joyce

Hello all!!!

Well, I want to thank you all for the pics you let me see.... Nice to see what you all look like... Once I get my pics on disk I'll have to email them to you- maybe I'll do it from my trip @ New Orleans...

Nawlins Lady I heard about Pat Obriens already my friend was there last year for a day and said I really need to try a Hurricane, I am getting super psyched for this trip... I think me and my friend are going to try a couple dance clubs and stuff....

Janetmae Thanks for the advice on the fries... I'm hoping I can stay on program 1/2 the time so we'll have to see.... Check out my goal the for week I want to get my pic taken with at least one hot guy for each night I'm there... (I am SO sad.....) :lol:

Well, talk to ya all soon...

Merri24

Just a quick note to let you know that I finally got to weigh in.

I lost 4.8 lbs. !!!!!!! Yeah me!!!!!!

I'll write more later - just wanted to brag. :smug:

Beth

Zowies, Beth, 4.8 pounds gone??? That is fantastic! Where in your points range are you eating, and are you exercising like crazy? I am very impressed with that loss-- you must be on top of the world about now.

Today is my second day in a row journaling faithfully and staying within my range. I had gotten pretty far away from watching my intake and now have about 10 pounds to lose to get back down to goal. I am feeling really positive about this.

Jan, I like your idea of substituting other, lower-point things for the fries, and when you can't, asking that they be left off your plate. That is such a good idea. I have no self-discipline if a plate of fries is in front of me.:( Also, thanks for trying out the "No Pudge" brownie recipe made in a custard cup; I'd seen it on other threads and wondered if it really would work. I have a bag of the mix in the pantry and I think I'll try it with some yogurt I have in the fridge. I had read originally that it is one point, and you said it is 2, so I'll assume you are right and count it as 2.



Carol, thinking about you, friend....

Hey Everybody!

Sorry I have been so lacking on posting lately. I have been struggling with the same four pounds for so long that I have kinda got in a funk. But I broke out of that this week with a 1.9 pound loss. It felt great to finally lose. :)

Texaslady- I agree with Joyce. You seem to already know what to do, you just have to take that all important first step. Good luck to you.

Beth- Wow!! What a great loss!! You rock!!

Well guys, you all keep up the great work, keep losing! And have a great day! I will talk to you later, honestly. ;)

Bye

Rebecca :cool:

Good Mornin' Ladies! :cool:
I am sooooo hiped today after that weigh in yesterday!

Linda Jean - I am in the 26-31 pt. range. I journaled faithfully and always ate within my range (actually stayed more at the top of the range). This was my first week and I haven't started exercising yet. I know the first week is usually a good loss but I never expected 4.8! Now my problem is -- I am going on vacation next week and I don't want to gain it all back!

JanetMae - I think I will follow the advice you gave Merri for her trip. I don't know what kinds of food they serve at places in Arizona. Hopefully I can find some places that will serve grilled stuff without cheese or sauces. I plan on writing EVERYTHING down that I eat whether or not I can figure the points. At least that will keep me accountable for everything I put in my mouth. I just have to keep telling myself - "This is not a FOOD vacation. My purpose in going to Arizona is NOT to eat." Hopefully my diet angel will stay by my side and keep whispering that in my ear! :angel:

TexasLady - I bet those explorers who came across the canyon were thinking "How the **** do we cross that!!!" :lol:
I wish we had to time to stop there but we don't this time. We plan to go back soon to see it. It was the one place my mother always wanted to see but never did. Maybe I'll go there for her. There are so many beautiful sights to see! I agree with Joyce. I think you already know what you want to do about the job. The friends you have at your present job will still be your friends. You'll just make new ones! Hope your mom is doing well.

Joyce - I'm sending my diet angel :angel: to help protect you from all of that food at the graduation festivities!

Rebecca - Congrats on the 1.9 loss! Keep chipping away at those 4 lbs. They will have to break down sooner or later!

LindaJean - Good for you on staying within range and journaling! Doing that faithfully is the key. Even if you go off program or above your points still write it all down.

Merri - Have a great time in New Orleans. If you go to Pat O'Briens be sure you only drink ONE Hurricane. I speak from experience. :spin:


Carol - You are in my thoughts and prayers. :love:

Beth

Rebecca, Congrats on that 1.9 loss -- that is wonderful! I'm glad that you are back and out of that "funk" you were in. Keep up the good work, and keep posting!

Beth, I'm sure that faithful jounaling is the key to loss--and I'll bet that when you begin exercising, you will see those pounds coming off at a steady clip. I bought one of the spiral journal diaries at my WW center and I think it is going to help me keep on track and continue to take this seriously. I am so ready to get back down to the weight I was several months ago! I felt so much better (and looked better too) then. And when you feel that you look better, I think that your attitude is really more positive overall.

dh is dipping his toe in -- he is now counting points too. He doesn't feel comfortable attending meetings, but I gave him my new electronic points counter (I'm using the blue one) and he seems to be taking it seriously. He has been having back trouble and his cholesterol is sky high, so I am praying that this will help him to both feel better and be in better health, too. Last night I made the individual-serving size of No Pudge brownies; we each had a dab in a custard cup and I believe he was kind of surprised that something so good can be so low in points. I need to continue to come up with interesting, good foods that have few points to keep this interesting for him! :)

Have a wonderful Thursday!

Texaslady, hope all is going well today for your Mom with the lens replacement. Am thinking about you and sending good thoughts your way. Re: the job offer, my two cents would be to take the new job, especially if you're not feeling challenged in your current position. And of course, knowing you, I'm sure you will soon have a whole new circle of friends at your new job.

JOYce, wow, that's a huge crowd to cook for! I know you'll be able to stay OP through all that, though, because your determination just shines through in every post. Have heard that chewing gum while cooking helps keep away the munchies ...

Merri, I love that goal, that's hilarious! Will you post some of those pics for us when you get back? I know you and your friends are going to have a great time .. and of course, dancing is great exercise too!

Beth, 4.8 pounds, WOW!! That is absolutely terrific; way to go!! I'll bet you'll do well on your vacation to Arizona, too; you're so right, just avoid the cheese-smothered stuff like chiles rellenos and enchiladas, and go for grilled stuff, chicken fajitas, bean tostadas, and soft tacos. Veracruz style is always better than Monterrey style anything. Corn tortillas are much better (points-wise) than flour, if that helps ... And those taco "salads" in fried tortilla shells are killers, unless you can skip the shell. (I can't, so I just don't order those any more, though I make a baked version at home.)

Rebecca, a 1.9 loss, that's great! You stuck with it through your plateau, and now you've broken through; I know you must feel great about that!

Linda, *please* tell me how you convinced your DH to actually count his points?! I have been trying to get my dh to do that for ages, or even to let me do it for him, but he refuses. He needs (and wants) to lose 50-60 more pounds, and his cholesterol is high too. He's lost 45 pounds (and has kept it off) just practically starving himself, but he hasn't lost anything for months now, and he still doesn't eat enough to get his metabolism going again. Do you think I should get him a points calculator thingy?

Carol, I hope the back injection is doing what it's supposed to do, and that you are feeling ok. Did you find someone to take you tomorrow? I wish we could all be there for you in person, but at least you'll know that we're all thinking of you tomorrow.

Hi to Saara, Janet, Patti and Stamps; hope all is well!
Regards,
Jan

Jan, I can so empathize with you. My dh hasn't been the least bit interested in losing weight for years. When I first started on WW about four years ago, he tried it with me and lost about 10 pounds, then gave up. He has been overweight all of his life and I honestly didn't ever think he would ever acquiesce to go back on the program. He has been having very painful back problems and is prone to very high cholesterol. His doctor changed his cholesterol meds and also gave him something to help his back and because of those two things, his liver was getting out of whack (he said the doctor told him it had too many enzymes or something -- I looked that up on the mayo site but couldn't find anything that made sense about the condition) so he took him off both of the meds, which made his cholesterol shoot up in the high 300s. I think it may have put the fear of God in him; I think that at last he understands that he can take responsibility for his own health and in the process, lengthen his life. So that is all I can tell you about how it came about--for some reason, and it may be because I have been praying about this, he decided to start counting points again. He is normally a very big eater, so I need to keep interesting foods around that are also low in points. I am praying of course, that he will stick with the program. Today was his second writing down everything he ate and counting the points. Godwilling, it will continue. He could stand to lose about 50 pounds, like you said your dh could. Another thing that may be encouraging him to take better care of himself is that we are looking forward to the day dd and her husband will bless us with grandchildren. He looks at small children differently than ever before, and is making plans in his mind for the future--taking them to Dodger games, teaching him to tinker on an old car, doing crossword puzzles, gardening together...I think that this bout with the hurt back has given him pause. I will pray for your husband, too, Jan; that he will see his way to join you in your healthy lifestyle. Please let me know how it goes with him,will you? And as far as getting him a points counter, I would encourage that. I myself have gone back to using the blue one because it has the old, higher ranges on it and I found "Winning Points" too restrictive. He is using the newer points counter just for calculating points, but if I had access to another blue points counter, I'd buy it so he could have one too, and be able to keep track of points used/left at the "old" ranges. Blessings on your admirable endeavor.

Just checking in for a minutes with ((((((((hugs))))))) for Carol as she faces this difficult day. Will try to get back in later.

Hi ladies- just a quick post to let you know they cancelled the surgery!:dizzy: :( :?: The hospital radiologist said there were too many areas to be sure where to biopsy without taking the whole breast off, Soooo... we'll wait 6 months and repeat the mammograms and see what if anything has changed and become more pronounced and do it then. Obviously I'm glad I didn't have surgery, but at this point I was prepared for it and ready to get it over with. Now I'm still in limbo, but whatever.
But, all the pre-op workup wasn't a total waste. My pre op chest xray shows a possible problem- an opaque area about 3/4 inch in diameter. :eek:So, I have to have a CT scan of my lungs now. I'm not really too worried about that (maybe I should be!) because I don't have any symptoms, but going through all the process of referral and scheduling and waiting, etc is something I could do without right now.

I'll post more later- just wanted to thank you all again for the prayers, thoughts and hugs- hopefully they will last me through the lung business now! :rolleyes:
Carol

Wow, Carol, I don't know if that's good news or bad news! What a roller coaster you have been on these past few weeks. I know what you mean by being mentally prepared for the biopsy this a.m. - now it's like hanging over your head for the next 6 months. That's not good either, I know. Bless you heart, I feel so badly that you have all this cr*p in your life right now. (((((hugs))))) Now a lung problem, too! Good grief! :mad: Well, you just keep hanging in there, and we will all keep supplying the prayers, OK?

Mom is doing well after her eye surgery. Thanks for all who asked after her. She got her patch off this morning and I talked with her a few minutes ago and she says she is seeing better as the day progresses. So hopefully this one will be more of a success than the other one was. Still keeping fingers crossed, though.

Thanks for all your comments about the possible job change. I guess I have decided to take the new job as long as they meet the salary I am now making. I have a call into them now. It just kills me to leave these people I work with, though. I know, I know - they will still be friends even when I'm gone. But I am so used to seeing them everyday - it will be different when I leave. We will only get to "do lunch" ever once in a while. :(

Rebecca!! I am so glad that you checked back in. We thought we had lost you! :) Congrats on the loss! I hope that gives you the incentive to keep on keeping on!

Beth - And congrats to you on a great first week! I am thrilled for your loss and am doing the happy dance for you. That's a wonderful beginning for you and probably lots of motivation to keep you going for another week!

Linda - You never told me where "Figgie" came from! :?:

Can't stay. Hi to Jan, Janet, Saara, Joyce, Merri, Patti and anyone I may have skipped! Have a great week-end. It was raining here this morning - just what this city needs - MORE RAIN! But it's supposed to clear up tomorrow.

Carol, my heart goes out to you, what a stressful time you are having with all of this! And you are handling it so well, I really admire your strength. I'm sorry you have to wait six months, but maybe that's good news in a way, that the doctor feels ok about waiting. Will you be able to have the CT scan soon, do you think?

Texaslady, so glad your mother is doing so well, and that the results are better this time. Be sure to let us know how the new job offer turns out! I know that change is not easy, but it sounds like you are ready for it. And often, making a major change in one area of our lives also affects us positively in other ways. If I'm making any sense ... As someone who is also going down that road, I can certainly empathize with your conflicting feelings right now. Keep us posted!

Linda, thanks so much for your good advice, and especially for your prayers that my sweet dh will come around. Your dh and mine seem to have a lot in common. Mine is not a "joiner" either, though he doesn't doubt that the WW program works. He just won't let go of this idea that you have to starve yourself to lose weight, which is the worst thing to do. I'm going to add prayer to the battle, as you did, and surely he'll come around! That is so sweet about your dh anticipating grandchildren; I know you both will be fantastic grandparents, like our own dear Carol!

Hi to Janet, Saara, Rebecca, JOYce, Stamps, Merri, Patti, and Beth. What is everyone planning for the weekend?

Jan

Hi again everyone. I hope it's been a good TGIF.
Merri, I'm sorry about the gain, but in a way it may be a good thing- now you've got an actually chance to decide if the cheesecake and pizza were really "point worthy" based on the end result. :)
Beth, big congrats on that huge loss!!! I'll bet the star parties are a lot of fun- I never heard of them before. Take some low point munchies on your vacation- it really helps me when I go somewhere.
Joyce, those skunks and I have something in common- I don't like chili powder either! :lol:
Texaslady, I think your decision to go for the new job is a good one. At our ages change can be intimidating but at the same time so invigorating! And having met you in person, I know for a fact that you'll have no problem making good new friends at the new job! Here's hoping their $$$ offer is right! I don't know if my news was good or bad either- I change my mind about that every couple of hours. I just know I could do without the uncertainty both of what's really there and of what should or shouldn't be done now. I know I'll make peace with it- I have to- but I don't think that will happen today!:( So glad your mom's laser surgury went well- I hope she's pleased with the results this time.
Linda, good for you for getting back to journalling! I know that's what got to to goal before, and it'll help you drop that pesky 10 pounds again!
Rebecca, good to hear from you! Congrats on the terrific 1.8 pound loss!
Jan, I'm not sure I'm handling all this as well as it seems. I look like the wrath of God lately from lack of sleep! There doesn't seem to be enough makeup in the state of MD to cover the circles under my eyes!:eek: My CT scan is this Monday. Since the other thing is now a non issue, I figured I might as well get that overwith and not have it hanging over my head. Good luck on motivating dh!! He's been so supportive of you. Don't forget to email you sister's name and schedule to me.
Janet, I was just posting here as you IM'd me!
Kendra, don't get lost again.
Saara, how's our party girl and soon to be Utah resident doing? What have you learned about your host family?
Ladies, I have to run. Hi to Liz, Patti, Stamps and anyone I missed. Have a good weekend.
Carol:lol:

Dearest Carol, I had tears in my eyes as I read your two posts today. I am so sorry that you are going through this terrible time. I am continuing to pray for the Lord's peace and comfort to surround you, please know that I think of you so often. I know that you are going to make it through all of this. Gosh, I wish I could be sitting with you right now saying this in person. You are such a blessing to this group! :) I also want to thank you for your being so positive and encouraging about my going back to journaling. It is so nice to be back in this group again where we give each other so much of that encouragement.

<Laughing--> texaslady, Just this morning I was remembering that someone had asked about the name "Figgie" but couldn't remember who it was, so thanks for asking me again (sorry I didn't answer the question sooner). I had actually seen the username on some other site about five years ago and I thought it was neat because at that time, it was Christmastide and the name "Figgie" reminded me of "Figgie Pudding!" So that's all; it was nothing really meaningful or interesting. :) I am glad to be "Linda Jean" again; Suzanne was most patient in explaining (and re-explaining) how to do it. And I am so glad that your Mom is beginning to see better after her lens implant. When my Mom had hers it was very successful also; she told me afterwards that she had never realized that her red terry cloth robe was so RED!

Jan, thanks for your kind words regarding our being grandparents one day. I have lots of things bookmarked on my computer under "grandparenting..." cooking, gardening, crafts--now all we need are the "little Sweeties," as our Carol calls hers! I'm sorry that your dh is of the mindset that he needs to "starve" in order to lose weight. Gosh, if only our husbands would just go to the meetings!!!!! <sigh.>

I'm packed and ready to go! :cool: My dh and I are so excited and looking forward to spending a week together exploring the sights in Arizona. This is the first time since the kids were born that we have gone away for a week -- just the two of us.

Linda Jean - I've seen those sprial journals at the meeting. I think I might pick one up next time I'm there. I'm always looking for the past week journals to get points and meal ideas. The spiral one will keep them all together. Glad to hear your dh is trying out WW. Don't think mine would bother counting points but he does eat what I fix.

Carol - My heart goes out to you. I won't be around to post for a week but my prayers will be with you, especially on Monday.

Jan - Thanks for the tips on ordering Mexican. My biggest weakness at a Mexican restaurant is the chips and salsa. My dh and I are known to down at least two baskets of chips when we eat Mexican. If they are not put in front of me, I won't miss them. I could ask that they not be brought to the table but dh likes them, too. :(

I've got my WW booklets, journals, and stuff packed in my carry-on. I'm ready!

Hello to all I missed. Have a great OP week! I'll be back on Sat. the 23rd.

Beth
:wave:

Wow, it sure has been quiet in here this weekend!

Carol, have emailed you re: the wildlife park. Sure hope the CT scan is going well, and that the news will be good. How long will it take them to have results for you?

Linda, I agree, it would be great if we could get them to go to the meetings, wouldn't it? I've seen very few men at the meetings, but those I've met all seemed to be very committed to the program.

Beth, guess you're already heading out to Arizona! Hope you have a great time ... be sure to tell us all about it when you get back!

DH and I are also heading out, so may not be posting (unless I find an Internet cafe) until next weekend. Hope everyone has a great week!

Jan

Good Monday Morning, ladies!

Jan - Where are you and dh off to this time! Hope its someplace fun! You guys plan the best trips. What day are you scheduled for your surgery?

Carol - Am waiting along with everyone else to hear about the results of your test this morning. Let us know. You are still in my thoughts and prayers.

Beth - Guess you and your dh are on your way to Arizona right now. I am so jealous. I just LOVE that part of the country. Have a wonderful time and lots of starry skies.

Saara - Where the heck are you? Let us know about your plans and when you are actually leaving for the States.

Got to scoot right now. Hi to Joyce, Linda, Janet, Kendra, Rebecca, Patti, Liz & anyone else I may have missed. I will try to get back in later. Still have not verbally accepted the new job - but I think that I have mentally accepted it. But I will not turn in my notice here until I have talked with the new guys one more time. Would like to delay starting new job until 7-9. That would let me give 2 weeks notice here and have a week for vacation in between. Guess I will just play out the hand and see what happens. *Talk* with you later.

Guess it is time for #67, come on over :)