Support Groups - Queens' March Toward Spring! Let's get this show on the road!

Have been in bed for 2 days...fever, aches now I just feel cottonballish in the head. I hate being sick. Gonna have a coffee, an orange and see if I'm up to a walk. I did do weights on Wednesday before I succumbed to this...maybe I'll try them today...or at least the 11 basic functional exercises. Hopefully this does not develop into the cold that has been in the house!

:tread: :wave:

Fly-by report-in: Have to drop in to an open house celebrating my aunt & uncle's 60th anniversary. Wow. And then shopping and dashing home to finish making dinner 'cause we're having friends in: DH is making moussaka, I'm making Caesar salad and a lemon meringue pie. Have been increasing exercise again, good thing!

Anagram, Ceara -- please try to rest as much as possible! You don't want to be sick.

Eydie, any upward movement in the poundage is strictly fleeting! T'will be gone in a twinkling...

Mild here today, sunny from time to time. K -- must run. Oof oof and away. Love to all, mentioned or un- Let's take this day and do the best we can with it!

So happy to see some checking in!!!

Back from weekend with the princesses. So much for my streak - feeling ok otherwise.

FINALLY off prednisone after two months. Don't know that I've lost any appetite though. Nice days have been great and inspiring. Dentist tomorrow to start a crown - how fitting ;) .

Need a STRONG dose of motivation yet again.

Ah.h.h. Monday :) Lots of cloud and rain out there last night...thunderdunders!

Windows 98 is crashing around our ears I fear...I am posting this in an O-L-D version of Netscape.....which is really s-l-o-w and does some interesting things to the pages. And won't let me in to edit my siggy. I'm down 10 lbs since New Years...of course I've lost several of those pounds a few times :shrug: but I'm into last October's territory now. Hoping to get to virgin territory soon...or at least virgin in my mind. ;)

Hope these smiley's work. Anyway. Glad you had a great visit Anagram, welcome back onto the wagon. I'll just slide my butt over!

:wave: to all :queen:s. How's the jobs Frogger and Kaylets? How ye be Arabella? I pm'd Wildfire...no response :( . Firefly should be in Hawaii, hope the weather is behaving. Empress A is around. WSW how're ya doin' And Aria? Eydie I hope ye've not gone back into the tunnels...exciting news from Eydie by the bye.

Seize the Day! (murky as it is...)

Hail all Queenlies!
I had a lovely weekend -- the weather was springlike, I had a nice day with DH on Saturday, incl. drop-in to aunt's 60th anniversary party. Great evening with our best friend couple. Spring again yesterday (Yay!) and a leisurely morning, 3-mile walk, brunch. I took my mom to the library in the afternoon and then for a drive out to look at the area where I'm renting a cottage in August. And when I got back to drop her off, two of my sisters were there and my BIL and I had a good visit with all. Home again, and watched "King of the Corner" (booked as a Yiddish "Sideways") which I enjoyed. Just an all-round good weekend. DH seems to have a cold, though. I'm hoping that it's the same one I just got over so I'm not at risk...

Ceara, we had torrential rain last night too, although I don't think there were any pyrotechnics. I was so sorry to hear you had to say goodbye to one of your faithful companions. No, even though I'm sure it was the best thing for her, it's never easy, is it. :hug: 10 pounds since New Years is FABULOUS!!! WTG, YOU!!! :carrot:

Anagram, yep, you definitely should have a crown, although I'm seeing more the precious metals and gemstones type! :queen: Glad you had a nice time with the royal princesses. I'm going to eye doctor today, myself. I know that this will be my first foray into bifocaland. Ah well, it will be great to be able to read with my lenses in again... Hope you're recovered totally from pesky cold/virus/whatever. Let us be WELL!

Eydie, I saw your news! That's very exciting! I'm getting the book out of the library. Had no idea what it was about but when I read the description on Amazon, I thought, yup, I think I could benefit. I bet this will be great for you and you'll be great for it! :cb:

K, Lovelies! I must away. Let's make this a good one -- LOVE to all!

hi. i never know if i'm going to be able to get back on here or not. the past week, any time i opened this thread, i got kicked offline (if i could even get that far!) sooo if i disappear again for any length of time, it may just be computer stuff. i've been thinking about you all, and wanted to say hello while i can. i am not caught up on your posts yet, but did want to check in at least. in this time when i thought i might not be able to get back here at all, i was very disappointed realizing how much i missed all of you. anyway, i have been getting over this long cold, and hanging op by my dainty fingernail. i had been eating larger portions again, but seem to be back on the wagon full-steam at least in the past couple of days. well, take care, all.

Sleepless night again, drat! Loverly to hear from you, wsw. Was missing you too. Computer problems seem to be everywhere any more. And I'm not good at solving them.

Arabella, I'd rather have the bejeweled crown and for what I'm paying for the oral one I could have probably picked up some tasteful little bauble.

My sympathy, Ceara, on your loss. Even if you had more years with her than you could normally expect, it's still the letting go that hurts.

Thought I had missed some posts so checked back a good bit until it finally dawned on me to check the other thread for that info.

Sounds like you had the perfect weekend, Arabella. The cold wave is pushing through here this night but I think we've dodged the worst of the storms. I sure did enjoy that little foretaste of spring.

:wave: Wsw! Glad you got on...we are experiencing Microsoft problems ourselves...am using mozilla browser right now. It keeps me on!

Another grey morn! And really blustery all night...is that what kept you up Anagram? I have to get dressed and find my buckets...I think that one of the girls is currently barking at one because it isn't in its' rightful place. She does like order, that one.

Another day on the wagon...it is getting easier now. Over 2 weeks I think and I'm really not craving anything.....yet :s:. Ya never know! Of course I've learned not to start anything either, or nip it in the bud. The mini-binge that started last week was killed by planning.

Thanks for the condolences...there is a rather empty spot by my bed...she always slept on my side of the room.....

Anyway....it may snow today! Huh? :shrug: Those flowers who stuck their heads up the past couple days are going to be shocked...not to mention the birds. It is too windy for me to walk this am, so it is weights for me!

Avanti! :wave: to all....keeping your spots warm on the wagon, and tea in the pot.

On we go :queen:. I'm trying out a pair of bifocal lenses but not sure if they're better or not. I can see some things more clearly but then they seem to shift around and since the prescription is different in the center than on the edges they go blurry when they do. I may just revert to the other kind and reading glasses.

Frustrating day yesterday. Our site utilities were down -- started off the day thinking I'd accomplish great things and barely managed to get the essentials done. Ah well.

Still struggling to get acclimatized and get going again. I've got to carve some time out to make a plan. "Failing to plan is planning to fail" :rolleyes:

WSW, so great to see you! We do miss our royal companions when we can't be in touch, don't we. And sometimes the palace is down to a skeleton crew but the palace has stood for years and the royals often return from their travels. Wondering about Punkinseed. And more recently, Wildfire.

Anagram, we should have met somewhere in the palace through the long darj hours. I've been awake the past couple of nights too. Friday I woke up at 3 and was up for the day. And then Sunday night and last night I went to bed sleepy but then just laid there. I often don't sleep well around the full moon. I may pick up some valerian to take tonight. Can you nap today?

Ceara, we're supposed to get snow changing to freezing rain later today. I s'pose it prolly behooves me to get my royal butt out there for a walk before all that untowardness starts. :chin:

Interviewing a boy for the production position this afternoon. It'd be wonderful to have that taken care of

K, Lovelies. I'm off. Let's make this a good one!

Arabella, it took me over 2 years to get used to mine. I wear them all the time now, and use the straight reading glasses for piano playing and extended reading. I found the "blind" non-corrective spots at the side most disconcerting at first but have finally gotten used to them. I would wear my "distance" glasses most of the time and the blended bifocals at work. Eventually I was used enough to them to be able to drive with them on. At least they don't make me woozy like they did at first....they made keyboards...computer and piano..look like the high seas. It made them roll and rock as you typed/played. Barf!

Good Luck...give 'em time.:lucky:

Put me down in the camp of reading glasses over contact lenses. A nuisance all around.

Don't know if it was full moon (I too have a tendency not to sleep as well then) or if I fell asleep on the sofa too early then went to bed instead of bustling around a bit plus it was tres windy but we did miss the severe thunderstorms that were "probable". No nap today, too many runarounds. A Mass for dh this a.m., then electrolysis, library, church (different one). Home for a bit then haircut and groceries, etc., etc. Get worn out running around and then nod off as soon as I sit down. OK if I sleep 20 minutes or so but often I really conk out. Plus I was a little in a funk last evening before I fell asleep - so many little things going wrong/breaking/and so on. And it was with me when I was up in middle of night but better after I got a few early morning winks. But only a few and up at six. In a better frame of mind after running around in the bright /brisk sunshine.

Windy, cold, sun waving byebye now. Snow expected Friday, probably not much.

Been getting little things done in between all the runs. Maybe this will be my ONE DAY of accomplishment this week.

I've had a string of "almost good" days - a string of two so far but did get in a good walk yesterday. Trying to squeeze one in somewhere today too but.....If not, I'll do some stretching stuff tonight.

So, it's off I are. Must have my cuppa chai before I leave.

Smile :queen:s - it's the only way.

Two day strings are better than no day strings! One step at a time sez the turtle to the rabbit! Am off for a church bored meeting....so will have a cuppa meself before I go. :wave:

good to be able to get on again tonight! today went well food and exercise-wise. anagram-hope you will be able to get some good rest tonight. ceara-so sorry about the loss of one of your old girls! arabella-took me quite a while to get used to using bifocals. when i needed reading glasses, i just continued with my contact lenses to see far away, and use them with reading glasses. i only use my bifocals in evening after i take out my contacts, and they definitely took me a good amount of time 'til i got the hang of walking while wearing them. hi kaylets-we're having those whacky weather highs to low temps also, along with some serious wind, too. well, hello to our lovely royal kingdom, one and all :)

Ah...good morning! The sun is out, and the wind is still blowing. At least it will dry up the water on the fields. I am going to attempt to walk...I really hate wind though. Makes my eyes run like crazy. And I need to do the stability exercises. Mind appears to be as OK as ever...although some may not agree :s:

Long day at work today...and Adult Book Club after at 8. We are doing Irish this month....could be interesting.

So, I'd better get the show on the road. :wave:

Cold, windy but very bright here today as well. WAY too windy to walk outside yesterday - keeping it on list for today too esp. if wind calms a bit as it's supposed to.

Did get a lot done yesterday and so far this morning. This is my day for two bereavement support meetings. Dr. tomorrow again. I think I'm getting ready to have some fun - just don't know what that will be.

:write:Hello anagram!
Happy to hear you are doing so well! :goodvibes:

:wave: Aria....look at your ticker! Good work!

Well, Book Club went well last night...have some new authors to read. Cancelled the programmes for this am and tomorrow...lack of registration. So, I have a little more time. Am looking at upcoming shows to enter....

Decided to hang out here and abandon the BFLFW thread until the wanderers return. So you guys get the report. Managed the walk yesterday...though it was windy, it wasn't too bad. Today is the walk and weights day...plus the stabilities. Supposed to do those 6x a week....am workin' on it. They take me less time now because I have the routine starting under my belt...I have substituted a different lower ab though...the other one was hard on the incision area. Clothes-o-meter is good...wore another pair of pants I've not worn for a while yesterday. And my blouses fit better..in the arms and boobs :s:

Anyhow...Up and At 'Em, Atom Ant! :wave: How's everybody? Where's everybody :?:

HI ladies!!! Haven't been on in a while. Been trying to sort out this job thing. Do I want to look for something else? I don't really know!!! :dizzy:

Anyway...Will try to catch up with everyone over lunch.

Back later!

I could have sworn I was in here yesterday, but it appears not. Had a dream last night about waiting on tables -- which I used to do, and which provides ample metaphors for life issues. As usual, what was happening was that I was too busy -- customers were coming in at a great and chaotic rate, sitting at dirty tables or joining tables in progress. And I was just running around like the proverbial beheaded chicken. I got the message -- too many demands on me and I'm not adequately organized to deal optimally. Must try to climb on top of things again...

Coolish but not cold today (well -- hovering around the freezing mark, cold for some areas I guess :rolleyes:. Hanging sheets on the line to have that treat to look forward to tonight. We have a cancer society daffodil sale going on and I treated myself to 3 bunches yesterday, split them up and kept some in the fridge to let them open after first bunch has had their moment.

Ceara, what books are you reading? I was in the middle of "The Known World" and had to put it aside to read "Little Earthquakes" which was a one-weeker from the library. Not proud of this, but reporting nevertheless.

Anagram, how are the bereavement support meetings? Is it a group?

WSW, the bifocal contacts are working out extremely well. I'm totally adapted to them already. Maybe lenses are easier than glasses? I did find the first day that one lense moved around too much and was not comfortable and vision blurred. Then I realized, end of day, that I'd had it in backwards the whole time. :o

K, Dovies, I must be off. Love to all!

Sunny, bright, not as cold. Nice day, I'd say, so no excuses. Well, maybe some.....

Went to pulmonary dr. this a.m. re some problems that have persisted over two and a half years. No major problem apparently but going for another test next week.

Another bereavement group this afternoon. I signed up for all three I saw because I was afraid I'd miss the best one. Today's group (of two apparently) is the least of them and I may skip it. Yesterday's first is ok to possibly pretty good but will miss that next week for test. Last night's is the best so far and the place I feel most free to talk so that one's definitely the keeper. Still, after today, I'll have logged 7 support group meetings for better or worse. A little overkill, maybe.

Managed cold walk yesterday. Took me less than 25 minutes to do a 30 minute walk. Cold and wind will do that for me.

Hang in, Royals. Almost the end of yet another week. How they do fly. Think I'll go urge on my daffodils and forsythia. They're so close. And I need the sunshine.

Hello all.....

Still trying to figure out my new schedule .... traffic is so much better at 6 am ...and believe it or not, if I leave at 6:10, the trip can take another 10, 15 minutes.... which is what I learned this morning and wound up NOT using the gym....

Tonight, DH was outside when I got home, heading out to bowling. And he realized my car has what I hope is only a radiator hose leak.... DH thinks its the radiator.... YIKES... just when DH thought he had enough put aside to buy come kind of cap or cover for this truck .... really got me emotional and I wondered later why that would make me so weepy.....

The past 2 weeks I've been using lots of Equal as that's what available at the new location. And I'm wondering if that's been help making me feel so hormonal...... or could it be that I am flashing like crazy lately too....

....
WSW... I can relate to computer issues.... :o

Ceara....so sorry to hear that one of your pets has passed. Its very hard.
They become such a part of our lives, filling in places we don't even realize till later....

Anagram...Is this weather just too much to believe? I had the A/C on Monday so the dogs wouldnt be too warm and then the heat went back on the next morning as the high was only going to be 40....
How do you like the electrolysis? Is it painful? Expensive?

Wood Nymph... so, did you hire anyone ? Hoping it all comes together soon.


Frogger? please tell us more! what's going on?

Empress? Eydie? Wildfire?


Take care all.... I will try my best to pop in more...
:hug:

Hello all,

Amazing what you can do if you get up at 4:30 instead of 5....

anyway... need to leave early w/ DH as my car will remain in the driveway ( grrrrr)

***************

Thought of the day ;

"May you have warm words on a cold evening,
a full moon on a dark night,
and road downhill all the way to your door."
---Irish Blessing

Question of the day:

"If you could be a fly on the wall, which wall(s) would you choose?"

**********


Happy Friday !

Top O' The Morning To Ye, Queenlies!

:balloons: Hello everyone!
Thanks for the encouragement, ceara! :)

Oyea, oyea, we have made it thus far. :carrot: :cb:

Have had the week from heck with technical issues both on our site utilities and home computer. Hoping I've fixed the latter with new anti-virus software and uninstalling a program that might have been problematic. Am most assuredly NOT going to work this weekend, nuh-uh :nono:

Made the decision this morning to go back to WW. I know it does work if you work it and I really believe in the Core plan -- so much emphasis on real food and nutritional value. Soooo... Monday will be start day. And starting at the same weight I started at last time :( Ah well, 'twill all be downhill from there on in.

Kaylets, nice to see you in the palace! It'll probably take a little while to get new schedule worked out, but I'm so happy to see you in your new position. I understand your reaction to the car trouble and $. If it was me, the reason would be because I felt like it was being confirmed to me that you just can't get ahead or something like that. This probably doesn't apply to you, but I do have to train myself from the idea that catastrophe awaits at every moment. If things are going well, I knock wood. And then if something goes wrong, it seems to confirm my fears. As I say, though, that's just me -- and I do know better. Striving for optimism...

Nope, no hire yet, although we're down to two candidates. Maybe next week? It's been 3 months now :tired:

Anagram, are you going to force some forsythia? DH is allergic, so I must wait for mine, but I love how that sunny yellow brightens up the house -- really lifts the spirits. I've got bouquets of daffodils now and some potted bulbs sprouting (daffodils and crocuses) and some purple tulips yet to pot. I do love my flowers!

K, Lovelies, I must be off to the salt mines. Have cleaned bathrooms this morning and cleaned up hard drive but haven't really gotten much work done. Love to all! Let's make this a good one!

Mornin' :queen: S. It is quite sunny here...am off for a quick ball play, a walk and heigh-ho to work I go....:wave: Have a great one!

Hello all!

HI Aria! Didn't mean to leave you out of my last greeting..... I'll take an extra ginko pill! How are things going your way??


DH went to work so I am trying to multitask housework.... have chick peas on the stove to get soft for a soup/stew for the crockpot, filled one bag of trash w/ donations from nearly every room in the house, caught up on a tiny bit of email correspondence, called in two prescriptions.... and ate and got dressed.

May run to the store w/ a friend but she hasnt called back yet and I wonder if she's changed her mind.

Interesting concept of feeling "trapped" until my car is repaired. Although many times when the car is perfectly fine, I'd make a concious choice of not leaving the house the entire weekend.... Interesting.....
Could it be "wanting what we don't have and then not taking advantage when we have it?"

hmmmm

Is that a speech topic??

well, got into some St Pat's cookies someone brought into the office...

Only had 4 or 5 but still.....
so far, I've managed to avoid any other sugar but I know its waiting ......

Guess its time to start the onions and garlic for the soup.

I have some licorice decaf tea too if anyone is interested.

Licorice decaf, that sounds interesting! Bright here too. Must soon get at it. DH and DDIL here and just took off for a jaunt so I've done little so far. Must get to office supply store so he can install new cartridges in printer while he's here. And put in a few light bulbs. And must clear out brain long enough to think of more chorelets for him. No sense wasting opportunity.

Walked again yesterday. Cold today again but want to get in at least a short one again.

Didn't force the forsythia, Arabella. It's so close to open it didn't seem worth it. All was opening at DDs last weekend and lots of daffodils blooming there as well. Some opening here - mine all seem to be a little later but daffodils are close too. So decided I'd have a wee bit of patience and just wait for Ma Nature.

A sad day for me yesterday. Can't figure out why except that dh just isn't here. I had planned St. Pat's as a "fun" day. Just wasn't. Today better. DDIL came in with a little green baggie of little green things - totally unexpected little treats (non-food). So I'll enjoy the green tea skin cream today.

And remember, Arabella, you're NOT GOING TO WORK this weekend.

Hi, ho, hi, ho - off I go.

Happy Weekend, All!

Well, they hired someone finally! I got a message about it this morning. I'm sure this guy will be good, not so sure he'll stick around very long. But -- whatever! I'll have someone to do production for a little while anyway. So -- YAY!

Anagram, nice reminder about the work -- I did a little work-related e-mailing but that's it. Promise!

Really, sad days are to be expected. They happen to us all, but never more than when grieving. Best thing to do, I think, is just go ahead and be sad. I've had trouble letting myself feel things some times and it just numbs me. You can be sad and still fully alive -- all part of life's rich pageant.

Green tea skin cream sounds good -- I was just thinking about how good green tea is supposed to be for the skin, and how Chinese ladies after a tea service are said to put the leftover tea on their faces.

:queen: K, I know what you mean about feeling trapped without the car. DH has started working out of a project office that he has to drive to most week mornings. I'm so used to him walking and leaving the car for me that I'm often a little put out to find that I can't run out anywhere at a moment's notice.

More :queen:s posting in the other thread -- :wave: All, if ye be lurking.

Off again! The party was fun and I was immensely careful about eating...however corned beef and cabbage stew is NOT a diet food. There was a lot of desserty stuff, but I ate fruit. And no booze...diet fresca. ! 1 diet fresca. So, balls with the girls, a walk, then off to the big benched show over at Cobo...:wave:to all!

Sunny here again today in the 40s so I'll be off shortly for a walk through the neighborhood and maybe a tug or two at a weed. DS/DDIL just left. Nice visit.

Glad you'll have some help for at least a while, Arabella, and hope it's longer than that. Oh, believe me, I've been letting myself feel sad. I just didn't want to be SO sad on St. Pat's Day. I had planned it as a day to feel better and somehow it didn't work that way. Feeling pretty good today though.

Busy week coming up. I seem always to have more to do than I feel like doing. But spring will surely put some life back into me. Getting in more and more walks - haven't been trying the pool since I went back once after finally shaking the "cold" and then feeling like cold was coming back. So will eventually do that again too.

Pats on the back, ceara, for the good job at the party!!!

Good morning, happy Monday, and welcome to the first day of spring, all ye best and brightest of women! I'm back from walk to the gym and circuit training and intend to walk over to my WW meeting at lunch, making for an hour's walk along with circuits and yoga. May even try to squeeze in a set of tai chi this aft...

Was looking through BFLFW yesterday and much of it resonated. I know making my health my priority is crucial. That's my aim, from here on in. I like her emphasis on meditation, too. I've noticed myself getting more assertive lately, which is kind of interesting. Usually I just think I should be more assertive but don't make any changes but now I'm standing up for myself when DH is unreasonable, for example. And am surprised to find that he snaps in line pretty well. This is a good, good thing!

Anagram, good luck with your busy week! Hard to find the balance, sometimes, isn't it. Remember to take some special time to nurture your own sweet self and have some fun! :cb: :carrot:

Ceara, WTG YOU!!! A fun party AND good behavior -- whoo-hooo!

K, off to the salt mines I am. Have a great day, all!

Good morning girlies!!!

In reference to my current position: it stinks....:mad: I'm not doing anything they said I was going to do. Which would be fine if the work I was doing wasn't just "busy" work or things no one else wants to do so they shove them over to me. The woman I work closely with got a promotion and although I used to really like her, she now treats me like a 3 year old and somehow, even though we're supposed to be doing the same thing, she now thinks and acts like she's better than me. So much for working as a team. We may be moving locations soon and the new location is much much too far (and additional hour total each day) for me. They want me to "make it work" if we move. No, I don't think so when I'd get up at my 4am wake up time, go to the train station, ride a train for and hour and a half, get to the old building and have to take a bus or shuttle to the new location a half hour away, work 8 hours and then try to make a train to get me home later than I get home now. And no, they won't be paying me more for my added heartache. I've sat myself down to figure that my time is not all about money anymore. It really should be, because we have so many expenses, but having Sydney has really opened my eyes. I'd rather have time to spend with my daughter. She's grown up so fast, I feel like I have missed a lot.

BTW, DH and I have decided to go back on low(er) carb. I say lower because we will have 1 day a week to have a carb dinner to keep up the brain function and we'll continue to eat fruit. I cannot live without at least a bananna in the house somewhere. I think I may had scurvy or something in a previous life....:^: We're going to be totally commited to it (ok, at least I am) I'm really, really starting to actually feel fat. I've never actually felt fat before. I've always had a very good positive body image. But now, I'm feeling it. So it's low(er) carb for us and some excersise. Starting today...I'm walking at lunch. Chilly outside, so I may just walk the halls here. Then I have a salad prepared for lunch. And WATER WATER WATER!!!
Wish me luck girls! Maybe I can lose the 80lbs I lost and gained back.

Sorry for the me me me post. I feel better now though.

Love to you all!

Remember, Frogger, this is THE place for me, me posts. Good for you on your renewed resolve. And yes, Sydney is growing up fast and that extra hour sounds like the straw hat breaks the camel's back.

Arabella, you've DONE SO MUCH already today whereas I have been a slug so far. your plans sound so energizing! And I like that 'more assertive' part. And the health as priority.

I did get in a nice walk yesterday after ds left. And then a little yard work. And then I got somewhat ambitious and did a lot of little things last night. I had also finally sorted through the tax info. Probably go look for a program today. Could even do it manually but seems not quite worth the effort as can also use program to work up estimates for next year. Bah, humbug!

Have a massage slated this afternoon, quick overnight trip to DDs tomorrow to see orthopedist re bunion and crossover toe, a medical test Wednesday, not too much planned yet for later in week. But may be no chance to check in for a day or two with running.

But for now, off to start today - or restart it as I'm up an hour and a half and have done little.

My first daffoditl SHOULD bloom today and forsythia is already. Neighbors daffodils have been merry for almost a week. Mine are so shy! But it's spring, spring, spring and I'm ready!!!!!

Just realized we've marched into spring so I'll report that I have not done as well as I'd have liked on this long trek but would have done much worse without your merry and royal company. Thankee.

Yup! Look for those robins every spring....but I could have cheerfully shot the one outside my window this am at 6! Lots of bird activity these days....makes the walk more interesting.

Have done the walk and admired my Siberian Irises, now to play ball, do floor exercises and weights. Also got some laundry on the go and should vacuum...maybe even tidy a bit...Am soaking a couple of plants and gave my poinsettia a shower...it is still blooming and is happier for the bath!

So off I go...I'm making me tired looking at this list! Finish breakfast first though...

Hi Frogger...good to see you! I like your ticker combo. No daffs yet here Anagram...their little leaves are just a couple inches from the soil...maybe your daffs are a later variety?

:wave:

I assume daffs are later variety and my forsythia too though I always say the forsythia is late because I took it from mom's place which is an hour north of here and a week or two later blooming for almost everything.

Off to DDs this morning - hoping weather stays ok down her way. Unusual for her area to be getting snow and ours not. 20 degrees below normal though. Brrr!

Your list made me tired too, ceara. I have a pink poinsettia blooming away too. And some peace lilies are looking gorgeous.Do we continue thread until spring REALLY arrives or is it to OFFICIAL spring?

Good question Anagram...any thoughts? We could do a May-pole or something?

No walking for me today...don't want to end up in Kansas....will do some weights and grooming. Class tonight.

Take care ladies.....:wave:

Hi, :queen: s ... sorry to be always so MIA ... it's hard for me to use this site now so I just duck in now and again ... am now on a different computer at work but have to run to a meeting, so huzzah all and ... :)

Three days into WW Core and all is well. I facilitated my writing group meeting last night and didn't even have a single nibble (I brought roasted garlic and parmesan soy crisps and a big bar of dark organic chocolate with raspberries). Nope, just the ginger-peach tea. Where is that "patting self on back" smiley? Exercise, water and meditation have all been good. I haven't managed to draw up my checklist yet but am doing Core + aerobic ex. every day + meditation + yoga, tai chi, qi qong (at least one). This WILL work, there's no question. :yes: And I will not let anything stand in my way!


Amarantha, how lovely to see you if only briefly. I do follow your escapades in the BFLFW thread, but mostly can only handle one. :wave: Avanti!


Anagram, are you sleeping any better? I woke at 3:17 again the night before last. Had kind of a frantic day and didn't get time to find writing exercises -- got to group and went with "Write about waking in the middle of the night." There was only one woman of the five who didn't have problems sleeping sometimes -- one woman said that four hours is all she ever sleeps and she's just exhausted all the time. lt's just occasional for me, although lately I've been waking mid-night :yawn:

Kaylets, how goes the job/travel transition? Is DS still with you? Any chance of shipping him off to Alberta? ;)

Eydie, have you started leading the BFLFW group yet? I just read the book and like a lot of it. Although I have to say that 80% doesn't work for me. More like 98%, I think, if I actually want to lose.

I love the empowerment of women and the focus on destressing, though. And her foods lists seem to make a lot of sense. And her exercise plan looks good too. Of course looking at the pictures is hugely motivating -- what some of those women did in 12 weeks is INCREDIBLE!!!

Ceara, you've got irises up! How lovely! I had a dream about a whole flock of robins the other night, actually. Got to be a good metaphor... :)

Frogger, sorry about the job/commute woes! There must be something better waiting for you. Tell the universe you're ready.

I do think lower carb/better carbs is the way to go. There's a lot of research suggesting that following a diet based on the glycemic impact of foods cuts down our risk of many, many diseases. Not to mention chub :rolleyes: Sorry about that "feeling fat" thing, too. I tend not to feel as fat as I am, but then am horrified when I see a photo or catch sight of self in mirror before I've got time to "pose." Ah well -- Avanti!

Salt mines beckon, so I'm off. Love to all, mentioned or un- Let's make this a good one!

And it gets worse....DH uncle passed away monday. He was the youngest of his mother's siblings. Heart failure in his sleep.

:sigh: I just want to lay in bed and do nothing but I am here at work. This makes 3 funerals since August.

I continue my quest to find a better position. I just don't think this job is for me.

DH and I planned to take the day off today and yet 7 a.m. found us in our offices. It will be easier to take time off once our new person starts on the site. In any case, it's a sunny day already -- our plan is to go to the gym and from there to drive out to the shore and go for a long walk. This afternoon, we may stroll around downtown and look at the galleries. And this evening we've got a dinner reservation at the Culinary Institute, so should be good.

Frogger, I'm so sorry for your loss! :hug:

Off to the salt mines, I am, but NOT for the whole day.

What a great day you have planned, Arabella! Now get out of that office!!!

Frogger, so sorry to hear of your loss. Yes, you've had quite a few in a short time. They say we grow and learn from loss but maybe you don't need to grow and learn so fast.

Still cold here but at least it's been sunny. Today's not and the whole weekend is supposed to be gray. Trip to surgeon brought shock. He recommended I have second toe amputated instead of fixing bunion. Have appt. with local surgeon Monday. No quick decisions, for sure.

No thoughts, ceara. Always like the maypole image but up for anything.

Good thing you are having a second opinion for your toes, Anagram.
Have a good day! :goodvibes

Maypole sounds good to me, too, and May 1 is the day after the end of my next goal, so -- Yup, let's do it!

Anagram, I'm shocked that the doctor would suggest such a thing! Absolutely, you need a second opinion.

Alas, there are tasks that must be done for Monday, but I won't be in the office TOO much longer. I did an hour's worth of work earlier that I lost when the application crashed, so have to redo. :rolleyes: Site director has suggested that we both work 4-day weeks in April (after new guy starts) which sounds v. good to me!

Yo, another flybye to say hi! :wave:

Arabella, thanks for sayin' a howdy to me up thread (I really appreciate it) and for droppin' in on the BFLFW thread. I can mostly only handle one thread on 3FC also as it tends to take me so long to get on this site anymore ... although I've been on and off more here lately ...

Am so into the running thing ... makin' progress slowly ... a 14-minute mile being my best time ... and that is a very slow running time, but I dinna care, I like it! :)

Howdy to all ...

Morning, Queenlies! I did make it to the shore yesterday -- however, I was a little disappointed that there was no visible water. The ice has broken up but I guess tides carried it all into shore. All ice floes. Ah well, I'll have to make more trips out to check on the progress.

Had a nice dinner out with DH. The dining room overlooks my beloved harbour and it was just sunset. Beautiful!

Not entirely core: Thai crab spring rolls, sage-stuffed chicken breast, bacon risotto, roasted veg., wine and two tiny-teeny mint truffles (maybe 1/4 oz.). But small portions of all these things (ok -- except for wine :o ) and I had plenty of points saved up. And I gave DH my rolls. Also had 2 hours exercise yesterday to make up any discrepancy. Nevertheless, I intend to be extremely scrupulous between now and Monday to ensure a loss at WI.

Hey, Empress! Kudos to you for the running. We'd make good running partners, I think. I'm verra slow too and likewise dinna care! My husband's always asking me about my time and I get sick of saying that, for me, the energy expended is the most important thing, not the speed. :rolleyes:

Have you heard about chi running -- I read about it last year and there are a number of experts starting to borrow some of the principles. Supposed to make running much easier and easier on the bod: http://www.chirunning.com/news/pacificsun.php

K, must be off -- time to walk. Have a great Saturday, All!

Hello all...

again, I wonder where did the week go?
So far this am, 2 loads of laundry, 1of dishes, veggie omelets for dh and myself and now I am with you.

Empress...miss you when you can't post... WSW too.... seems like the security we need for viruses locks us out of any upgrades our favorite sites make...

We too are seeing very chubby robins this way.... One on our patio looked like he was on steroids... looked like Arnold Robin .... I know he was in love and trying to impress but boy oh boy!!!

I am proud to say I tried the rowing machine for the first time ever .... only lasted 3 minutes but my heart was pounding and starting to sweat and sure did feel great nearly the entire morning afterwards.... Think the quick get the blood rushing routines will work best for me right ..... get some instant gratification and keep me motivated.
Interesting note.... I went into the gym ravenous and noticed for nearly an hour afterwards I was not hungry. But then of course, appetite came back but for sure, endorphins or something killed that "so hollow I'm echoing" feeling....

The other big note of my personal health is that for the first time this week I woke up 3, 4 times hot and sweaty. At first I just thought too many blankets...
Then I realized.... here they are... night sweats.... and that's WITH the Black Cohosh.... I'm not sure if I should take more... so far, its only been 2 nights in a row this way...

As for family note.... DS recvd a letter from CT Social Services ..... He was named as possible father of little girl. Since we know exactly when DS was in CT last ( he moved in w/ us when he was 15).... we were concerned that perhaps this "baby" was nearly 10 yrs old. DS spoke to the office and faxed them proof that in 1999 ( the "baby's date of birth) he was in an entirely different state. They did tell DS that he was not the only man named so unless none of the other men test genetically positive, DS wont' need to be genetically tested.
DH and I were pretty sure DS wasn't involved but on the other side of it, we didnt want to find out later that we were wrong.....
****
Job continues to go well.... some bumps but there are systems and spreadsheets I'm learning so its no surprise that I'd have a few things to learn.


Anagram.... Amputation sounds drastic but may be a simpler surgery in the long run..... As well as 2nd opinion, maybe there's some info on the internet too??? :?:

Frogger... I can relate... not w/ my current job but w/ the former.... I knew right away too that it wasnt a good fit.... Why some folks thrive and others do not is a mystrey to me.... In looking back, I wonder if I should have spent less time trying to excell at a job I knew wasn't "fitting" and more time finding other opportunities.... On the other side of it, there is that argument about
giving a job a year to see how it all plays out. BUT, now that you know the company is moving, that is a perfectly reasonable explanation when asked "why are you looking after such a short time?"... In fact, I would stick w/ the move explanation rather than have to explain why you don't like the job.
Makes it easier if you need references too....

Wood Nymph! what a lovely day you and DH have planned.

My dh is unexpectedly home today so we are planning to go target shooting ( Dh's brand new hobby) and then maybe I'll cruise the Goodwill too... I need a bargain on shoes and DH murders his work pants so I am always on the look out that way....

Aria... How goes it? Is life treating you well?

Eydie! I am trying to get some days together so I can work my way back to my goal weight.... Am hoping the effort in the gym in the mornings will translate to better food choices at night.... I even ate sweet potatoes two nights in a row to get beyond a sugar craving.


Just seems like my appetite is always at FULL BLAST lately. I am drinking lots of decaf tea but all I notice is that I am making lots of bathroom stops.
In fact, as I write this , I finally forced myself to get back on the scale and its true, the mirror isn't lying... I am aprx 13-14 lbs above where I want to be.
And that makes me blush beet red but ....
How do they say it?? At least we know where to start....
Doesnt sound like much do you say.... well.... guess you're right... just embarrassing to be above goal when I was SURE I'd never have to deal w/ this again....


OK>>>>>>

Here we go Saturday, here we go.....
Here we go making healthy choices, here we go....

Anyone for tea?
kettle is on!

Wood Nymph, I would love to have thee as a runnin' pard ... thanks for the link. I am goin' to check it out. :)

I did 12 miles this week and am verra pleased with that ... this will be my weekly mileage base for a month or so ... I do time myself on some of the miles ... the only reason being that I'll need to get fast enough to finish the half marathon in the time allotted ... it doesn't matter to me if I'm faster than someone else.

Congrats, K, on thy rowin' machine prowess ... I know what ye mean about the appetite suppression produced by cardio ... the running does that for me as well ... but then it comes back with a vengence ... I'm hopin' I haven't gained again this week.

The running is producing an odd effect of being able to concentrate on nothing but, well, the running ... sort of obsessed, but that's a good thing as I've needed to get out of my rut ... however, I'm massively self-focused these days so apologies for comin' in and not greetin' everyone ... seems I only have focus enough for responses to specific comments but am still readin' everyone's posts and mentally supportin' everyone.

Yo, Arabella, that's a good site. I'm going to order the book ...

Twelve miles - just great, Empess! I know that "obsession" (second hand) as when DDIL is training for a marathon, all else falls away.

The harbor overlook dinner sounds delightful AND ROMANTIC, Arabella. I think too the move should be the reason for looking, Frogger. Any simpleton should understand that you can't add another hour to an already overly long commute. And Kaylets, congrats to staying strong through yet another DS saga. Did he get job w/DH?

Believe me, I will be doing research. Just didn't yet. The listed advantages of amputation were appealing and I've had one acquaintance tell me of someone who had three toes done (but because of diabetes where you don't really have options) and how well she did. Her account was in line with what surgeon said. But the idea was a shock (I thought he was kidding around as my past ortho surgeon did) and will require lots more education.

DD and princesses here. I had been sleeping much better since I went off prednisone. However, here I am wide awake - RA and this crazy weather combining to cause much pain. Supposed to drive to DSs today for b.d. party for his MIL but am going to beg off. Would then be staying at DDs and rushing home tomorrow for dr. appt. With hurting and lack of sleep, none of that is appealing.

Did get in a good walk yesterday. And scales - ouch! Was weighed in 3 drs offices recently. All different by a range of 6 pounds. Unfortunately my last weigh at home was in the high range. And it means I've put on about 12 pounds from my lowest too. Was holding pretty well for a while. NEED TO BUCKLE UP/DOWN. RA responds well to simple diet as well. So what's the downside? It's all plus and yet I restart and restart. Not too royal, I'd say.

Loverly Sunday to you all. I think I'm going to try to get some more sleep.

Hello all,

I too would love to go back to bed for a nap but since DH went to work and there is lots and lots to get done here just to be ready for the week, I think instead I will try to do a multitask spurt....put a pot of lentil soup together, get some dishes and laundry running....put away groceries purchased yesterday.

Yo, thanks, Anagramatic! Twelve miles IS a pretty good base for me. 'Preciate the support and might I say that though shouldst not feeleth like the Lone Rangerette in secretly wanting to turn Demon Scale into a lamp (ye didn't say that, I extrapolated) ... after a week of 12 miles of running, plus the usual weights and abs/core/stretch class (did skip one of 'em), I have not lost an ounce and am still in the 140s when I planned to be in the 130s this week ... however, I am goin' on the theory that a maintain is a loss in disguise and we'll get 'em next time.

Anagram, I'm sorry I've not been more seemingly supportive of you through these health problems ... but I am always lurking ... when I can get into this site, that is.

Actually, it seems the more I come in here and in the Does It Work Forum, for which I have a grim affection, the more smoothly it opens for me ... not fast by any means, but mayhap my computer is blocking it less in some esoteric way.

I need to stick to what Fitday PC says I should be eating in order to lose a pound ... I was over that by approximately 200 average cals this week, although it was lower than the week before. I DID also eat refined sugar and flour (e.g. cake and candy) TWICE, although I counted the cals ... it's clear I can't eat sugar and lose weight ... but the running makes me crave lots of carbs and sometimes I want a lil somethin' more than brown rice, good as my recipes for that are.

Kaylets, I actually am going to take a nap ... I should be working so that deadline day won't be so long, but feel enough is enough ... I need some time off before I literally collapse into a stress-induced state of dementia ... and I have a headache that won't quit.

I just walked around today in the neighborhood using the ped to figure the distance of routes; I call this "active rest" and do not count these kinds of walks into my running miles and again will go for 12 miles this week ... walk breaks in running DO count, though ... some people say my running IS walking but I do not consider these people funny.

Some running guru or other once said that the only difference between running and jogging is an entry form (you usually have to tell 'em if you're going to walk, run or jog a race).

I think I will run the Boston Marathon when I am 70, assuming Boston still exists and everythin' ...

Top ' O the Mornin' to you all! Nice sunny day out there...the birds are singin', the sun is shinin' and the flowers are growin'. I'm gonna walk this am at some point before I go to work.
This week was our local All-Breed show....where I was wearing a number of hats. It went so smoothly and the club members worked so well together! I am just on :cloud9: and very estactic! Tired too. Did over 10,000 steps on the pedometer Saturday and 6,000 + yesterday. The judging was good and there were no exhibitor kafluffles either...so. A few loose ends to tidy this week and that is done for another year.
I am up 3 lbs :o !!!, but considering the spazzing out mentally I was doing before the event and therefore stress eating...that is good. I even had some beer with Sat and Sun meals...and stayed at the +3 lb level all week end...I'd rather have a beer than a piece of cake :s:
Frogger, sorry to hear of your loss. I hope the job front goes smoothly for you also. Anagram, you are a wise woman. Empress A...'tis an evil trick played on you by the :devil: scale. A maintain is better than a loss at this point for you...your bod will catch up! Or down! Nice to see you Arabella...that harbour day sounded wonderful...and Kaylets...glad your new job is workin' out...I'm with you there today on the "house' chores...starting with a good vacuum! :wave: to all other :queen: s ...are we thinkin' on a new Challenge goal...when is May Day exactly?

Gotta fly!
Ceara

I always love a fresh start, even when I don't need a "do over." Just feels good!
I'm happy to report, too, that my scale has me down 2 pounds from last week and officially 10 pounds down from my highest weight in the fall. AND today is WI day :cb:

Capped off the "holiday" weekend with a symphony concert yesterday afternoon and then watched Capote in the evening. Good but disturbing film. Philip Seymour Hoffman was incredible -- hard to imagine how a big guy like that could portray Truman Capote believably, but he really did.

Amarantha, how great to see such nice long posts! I've come to a similar conclusion as you did with your Fitday calorie thing -- I realized I've got to actually FOLLOW the Core program to make it work for me. I didn't really count the points of non-core items last week although I'm pretty sure I was well under. This week -- I'll count and be SURE.

12 miles is AWESOME :cb: (and coincidentally about what I plan to do when I start "running" again soon).

Anagram, there's none more royal than thee! It's hardly surprising that this would be a difficult time for you, you know. It's just a little hard to get going, but once you do it's much easier. And you could be in a LOT worse position. As I recall, we were around the same weight at one point. And now I'm way, way up there (I'll NEVER stop weighing myself again, NEVER!!!)

Re: toes, yes, it's just the idea that's so shocking. I think people do very well missing toes. Seems like an extra jolt you don't need though, especially, after having the same issue come up with your darling near the end. :hug:

Kaylets, likewise so wonderful to see nice long posts from you! The sweats could be a combined issue. I find as the weather gets a little warmer I've got to lighten the bedclothes or I have the same thing happen. It's so tempting to try to make it warm enough when I'm going to bed, but if I do it's probably too warm for through the night. A friend of mine said she puts a bunch of heated "magic bags" in the bed before she goes. That would be nice, I think.

Frogger, hope things are looking a bit better to you! Remember you can always come and kvetch!

K. I'm going to be drifting in and out of the office all day today. Get the house straightened around, go to WI, get some work ahead here. Let's make this a good one!

xo
Arabella, WN

I am completly and emotionally drained. I don't remember being this sad since my father passed away when I was 6 and I have been to several funerals since then. I think it's because DH got so upset. He was a rock for his mother and family until the end when it was time for the last respects and the closing of the casket. I didn't think we were ever going to leave the funeral home. Sydney was even getting upset because everyone was so sad. She went to just about everyone in the family and gave them a hug. And then I was holding her when we were about to leave she turned to the casket and waved bye bye.

Thinking about leaving early today to catch a nap. But I don't know.

Eating was out of control this weekend, so I won't even go there! :^: Back on track for this week. Promise...

I too love Mondays for the freshness of all, not just the weight battle but EVERYTHING. It's like another chance to get things right everywhere. Didn't go to DS for party, rested after DD, etc. left and feel somewhat better this morning. Sun here too and supposed to get nice and springlike this week.

How darling of Sydney. She grasped the moment in her sweet little byebye. Don't tell me kids don't know! They're the experts.

Congrats on the 2 pounds down, WN, and happy WI~ and congrats on the successful show, Swordbearer. A feather in thine cap!

Well, back to it. General cleanup done, laundry started, trash gathered up. Just contacts and makeup to do and then I'll be set for the morning chores. Once I figure out what I want to aim for. At least a few minutes in the yard. Must urge on my hyacinths, rake up a few odd flowerbeds. Not too much at any one time. My new credo. A little here, a little there and suddenly you're surprised that it's almost done (I hope).

May Day is usually May 1st in US. It's also Law Day and in many European Countries, it's their Labor Day. Could also go with Cinqo De Mayo (?). Looked for some offbeat holidays but didn't come up with anything. Loved when we did Queen Victoria's birthday sometime back. Anything between now and the summer solstice works for me.

Hello all....

So.... Fresh Tuesday?? Mighty Mayday?

Let's keep the momentum going.....a body in motion stays in motion.....

Together we can do anything! Maybe not exactly the way we envision or at the pace we expected but DOING IT!!!!!


Here we go Tuesday, here we go!


**************************

Thought of the day :

"We have been given two hands:
One for receiving and for giving."
---Billy Graham


Question of the day ;

"Name the best gift you've ever received......Name the worst."

*****************


Tea anyone?

KETTLE IS ON!

Good mornin'....'tis grey here. However, I am still going to walk in the drizzle. How wet can I get? I shower every day.

The scale is bouncing down again...I think all the walking on the week-end and the lack of sleep caused me to retain water...it sure came out yesterday. Wish I had shares in toilet usage. Anyway...all is well.

QOD Worst...a tire pressure thingy that you plugged in the ciggy lighter to blow up tires. DH bought it for me, and HE used it. Most annoying (and useful)...a cell phone. Best gifts....jewelry ALWAYS! Of course we could go philosophical and say health, happiness and family for the bests....I choose to be more commercial on this one.

Got a few things to do today...thot I'd clear out the flower beds at the library before I start work...that necessitates getting there earlier than I do normally :lol: And my walk, some more laundry, wash a dog and groceries! Not much food in the house which is great for me but my poor DD (the picky eater) has not a morsel of food to eat. Translation...not a lot of junk around. So, off to the salt mines. Take care....seize the moment!
:wave:

Sounds like a plan, Ceara. Mind if I borrow it? Too lazy to figure out my own. Grayish here but we may not get enough rain for me to walk in drizzle. But no sunshine. Was planning to clear out another flower bed here today (have been doing a bit at a time and was pleased with what I did yesterday). No dog to wash but must call the owner of my watchdog across the street. He barks everytime I walk out of the house or anyone comes to see me. He watches for me to come home and lets her know I'm back. No laundry but a laundry room in need of cleanup.

Must go out somewhere. Lots of choices but don't need much in line of groceries. Fun shopping not on my agenda yet.

Anyway decent food day yesterday, got in walk and some small yard work. A little bit on the paperwork and a visit w/ortho surgeon. He said amputation is extreme. I've put off any decision/thought for the moment.

Not much planned for the rest of the week besides my three support groups. Maybe I'll be able to get a bit more organized. However, if anyone calls I'll be out like a shot. I may need to do the calling! I do need to eat out once in a while.

Hope you're out walking the harbor, WN. And wsw, when you can get on, please know you are missed and that we hope your technical difficulties are not being messed up by the weather.

Good to see you back on so early, Kaylets. But I'd guess mornings are somehow shorter with your new commute. Worth it, I'd say, for the gym incentive.

Starting slow this morning. Later start (hooray) and no imperatives so will enjoy my tea and the day. That's the plan anyway.

I think I can, I think I can. Chuga, chuga, chuga, chuga.

QOD - one that comes to mind for worst was a lamp DH bought me in the 70s. I can't begin to describe it - needless to say I took it back. I'm sure there have been others but somehow that's what jumped into my mind this morning.

Best - well, the philosophical of course. Lots of commercial goodies too. Right now I'm thinking the pearls DH gave me for my birthday. At the time I remember thinking they might be my last gift from him (there was one more). And my sister did the shopping and my daughter had the idea but he was so pleased to be able to present them. He had given me same many years ago and I lost them about 15 years ago. I had told him I didn't want them replaced but he said when he gave me these that he should have just done it years ago. But I'll appreciate these more because of all the love of the crew involved.

Must get some tea.......

Another worst - from long ago. Had worked all day, then four hours on road to get to MILs at Christmas time. When I got there she asked me to wrap some gifts for her. So I did. She gave me two big boxes, I wrapped them and then she presented them to me and dh. I was livid and she thought it was so cute. The gift inside would have been appreciated a lot more totally unwrapped. btw, she was only in her 40s then - not like she asked me to do it when she was old and ill.

We've got a lovely sunny day here. Not exactly warm (close to freezing) but is supposed to warm up through the week. I've got sheets and my nightie in the wash to go out on the line. That fresh smell is like a special treat waiting for me when I go to bed. Finished yoga, meditated, put a big pot of chicken soup on. Did a little work-related e-mail but otherwise have yet avoided the salt mines :s: Will walk self around the harbour in the sunshine this afternoon.

Ceara, yay for you! Just goes to show you can have the occasional beer and still lose. V. inspiring, too, you are -- clearing out library flower beds. I want to keep an eye on mine and get old weeds out as soon as they thaw and before they really start to flourish!

Kaylets, good QOD!!! Jewelry comes to mind immediately. My sister gave me a lovely very pale green aventurine and silver necklace for my birthday last year. So beautiful! I think it's my favorite. The worst is even easier -- and from ex-MIL (go figure!): a heavy, textured, polyester (anyone remember crimplene?) skirt and jacket, the exact orangey-yellow of road markings, with the skirt in size 10 and the jacket 14. I wore a 12 at the time, so I guess she figured it'd work out. And might have, if the sizes were reversed... Too bad it didn't fit :rolleyes:

Anagram, I'm glad your surgeon thinks that amputation is extreme. Sure seems so, doesn't in. Re: romantic dinner -- well, romance is not DH's strong suit (he has many strong suits, but that's just not one of them). I've had many more romantic dinners with my sisters, which sounds funny but I guess what I mean is intimate and openly affectionate. I've made my peace with my relationship, but those are just aspects that aren't ever likely to be part of it.

Frogger :hug: I hope you left early yesterday. Can you possibly take a day or so off to give you a little time to regroup?

Laundry's ready to hang out and then I'd best get some work done. Love to all, mentioned or un- Let's make this a good one!

Frogger so sorry for you loss. You are in my thoughts. Take care!
Sounds like lots of things are going on with everyone. I will have to catch up but I am getting ready to go to work. I loved Maui and it was great to see the kids. The adventures kept me moving with burning calories, stress there was none, and eating I didn't worry about cals cause I was so active. But now back home for a few days its time to take the bull by the horns sort of speak. In order to gain control intake journal and exercise and drinking more water is a must. So today I will do all 3 of those things to try and get myself in the groove. Hang in there everyone spring is here! I will catch up later on. Have a good day!

Hi cacmsc! Sounds like you had a good trip!

Nice and sunny here...and warmer. Gonna get the walk in and do some running round...maybe add some distance?

I'm amazed at how fast the grass is greening up and the leaves of the daffs and tulips are flying out of the ground. I guess they figure spring is finally here, not one of those February fake promises. I saw 3 cardinals last week flitting around. Of course the 2 males were pushing each other down the tree row and trying to (a) impress the female and (b) establish some territory. By the time they finished and the victor flew back, the female had buzzed off somewhere else :lol: Just like people.

On that note, I'm off! :wave: to all :queen:s

:drill:

Bright and sunny here today, too. I was tired when I woke up, tired when we got back from the gym, but seem to have more or less recovered after a few cups of coffee. I'm getting down to the last few days without an assistant :cb: Soldiering on til the end of month...

Have worked out that it's quite likely to take me a year to lose the weight, even with good momentum. Reminding self that year will pass in any case and, besides, I'll make progress all the way along and just get better and better... Marked Day 1 on the calendar to look back upon.

Cascms, glad your trip was good. Welcome back! Must say, Maui sounds awfully good. :cloud9:

Ceara, have you actually got daffs and tulips in bloom or just up? I've got crocuses...

K, dollings, I'm off to work. Have a fabulous day!

xo
Arabella, WN

Hi Arabella...no just leaves. The daffs are just starting to send up flower heads..you know when they look like fat leaves...only 2 inches or so high at the moment. I have siberian iris' blooming...they are 4 or so inches high...and some yellow thingys...no crocus blooming yet although they are sending up leaves. My grandmother's daffs are blooming...but they are on the south side of the house and very protected. Keep in mind that I am at the same latitude as northern Cal....I remind myself of that in deep winter :lol:

Anyway....gotta bring in the girls and boogie...walk was wonderful. Today we had the duelling robins!

Sorry about your loss, frogger.
Thinking of you and hope you feel better soon.

Hello all!

Frogger.... So sorry to hear about the loss of your loved one....sorry I took so long to pay my respects....... Makes you wonder what the little ones understand at these type of events too doesn't it???


Wish I could stay longer but will have to promise to come back later......

Just want to share this with you all....

Coming home the "slower" way as its so much more scenic as well as offers lots of alternates if there is a traffic jam...... Discovered nearly a 1/2 mile of "hedge" bordering the state park is forsythia.... And the entire 1/2 mile was in that bright, bright yellow of "just bloomed" yesterday.
Lovely.
******************

Thought of the day :

"In every person who comes near you look for what is good and strong."

John Ruskin, English author, 1819-1900


Question of the day :

"When they make the movie about your life, what will the title of the movie
be?"


*******************

Have a good one all!

Anyone for tea?

Well girls it sure is nice to have the sun shining in the morning. The birds are around we have seen the robins here. That is a sure sign of spring. I am feeling a bit better with my intake a little more in control. As I said while I was gone I didn't worry about the intakes. Needless to say with hiking, swimming and touring I got my exercise and then some. If I lived there I would never have to worry again about exercise. I walked to the village almost daily just for the fun of it. Of course a few times I made it to the bakery. But the good news is my clothes from the closet for spring fit good. I ironed a skirt for work last night in hopes it would fit and it did and just fine. That made me feel good and will give me a boost to behave with my eating. I plan a walk today after work. Things have been a bit busy there some emergency things to tend to but all in all not so bad. After a vacation break yah feel like you can handle things better. I think everyone should have a break on a regular basis. Too bad it doesn't always work out that way. Thank God I get 4 weeks and in 1 1/2 yrs. gain another week. That is good benefit of my crazy job. They also let us save time from one year to the next. That is how I had enough time to go away so soon in the year.
Thanks for the nice welcome back girls your very thoughtful! Hope you all have a great day! I started off with my Kashi cereal this a.m.. Thats always a good beginning. I have some trouble when I get home maybe I will try an afternoon snack so I am not so hungry. I stayed around 1500 cals but healthy choices. I will try to groom that a bit. I will shoot for 1400 today.

Mornin' all! Sun is shining, grass is growing. DH is working on the lawnmowers...kudos. That is before we need them and the grass is a mile high :lol:

Things are going well...I'm looking forward to having a "veg" night tonight...no place to go and nothing I'm obligated to do...bliss.

So...walk, weights, groom a dog, and just do catch-up stuff...I don't think I need to run the roads in a vehicle anywhere this morning! YES!

QOD...The Merry-go-round.

Seize the day all...love the description of the forsythias...:wave:

Not a bad day yesterday - not the best either but more on the good side than bad. Got in a small walk. Hope to do better today.

A perfect example of a few extra minues well spent, Kaylets, when you get a treat like the forsythia. My hyacinths are now blooming away, and daffodils. I had forgotten how late my forsythia were cut back last year so they're blooming is lots less showy but still welcome.

Welcome back, our refreshed Firefly! Glad it was so good.

Arabella, the setting was romantic. I'll take solid and devoted anytime. In fact, I did. DH wasn't the most skilled at the romantic moment either - and sometimes when he did try, it didn't work out well. I think he sent me flowers once. Of course I did tell him I'd rather have flowers to plant. But still, we don't always mean what we say to be taken TOTALLY literally, do we?

Movie of my life? Cinderella, maybe? My early years were not the best but the latter part has been.

Up and at it - only a little meeting this afternoon. But a good friend to call back and maybe she'll say "lunch".

[color=bluue][b]Was sorry to hear o' thy loss, Froggie, not sure if I mentioned it last time the system here let me in! Sydney sounds like she was a great comfort ... so sweet that she hugged everyone.

Arabella, would love to hear o' thy running exploits and plans ... mine suffered a setback yesterday as I just seem to have a sore hamstring and feel generally very tired ... but will recover ... I bought a big book on everything you ever wanted to know about running today and just enjoyed reading it ... I particularly liked the section on hydration that brought out the important point that many illnesses deaths occur when runners drink too MUCH water ... I can't spell the condition this induces right now (braindead) but it IS very important to remember that only the right amount of water should be consumed ... too much under certain conditions is very dangerous ... creates a too-low sodium concentration in the blood that can be fatal.

The book noted that much of our current thinking on dehydration is a myth ... something I've been reading a lot lately ... living in Arizona, I'm not sure ... we need to drink a lot of water here when it's hot ... as it will be very soon ... getting there more slowly this year but I'm quite warm right now ... except my blood seems to be so thin that at night I have a space heater aimed right at me, a procedure I hope to ditch by next week.

Hello, Cacmsc ... Maui sounds wonderful ... good to see thee back.

I am really extremely fatigued and must go back to sofa ... long day tomorrow.

Good morning all! Well I have made it almost through one week back at work. It hasn't been too bad a bit stressful at times but do able. The sun shining sure does help one to feel up lifted and in better sprits I think. At least for me it makes a huge difference. Sounds like we are all on the same wave trying to reach our goals. I have to get into really exercising just jumping back into work was hard enough though. I have scheduled myself for exercise times on my work calendar if I do that it works out better. Next week I will also try going in the morning to the gym it is easier less folks etc. and done for my day! I used that little white square today I hide it in the closet! I need to ensure I am not getting to far off I was up only 1 lb. not to bad. I set a mini goal of 2.5lbs by Easter. Thats not unrealistic and can be done. All in all not bad for eating what ever I wanted for a couple of weeks away. And this week I was a bit up in the air. Hard to get back into full swing but I am on my way! Feeling more in control and watching my choices closer the afternoon snack helped I was straved when I got home from work! That wasn't a good thing the Kashi bar made the difference.
I am awaiting my spring flowers you girls are bit ahead there. I have tulips up but not flowered along with the rest of them. I did see some crocuses up at work yesterday. The grandkids are coming over tonight to stay. I am going to buy bird food and they can help fill the feeders and put up a few of the houses as well. We get lots of beautiful birds in our yard.
I am preplanning my weekend snacks card night is saturday. So I host it and will ensure there is some healthy choices on board for the evening. Have a great weekend girls. Boy its great that it is pay day! Hawaii is expensive a gallon of milk can be as high as 7.59 eggs 1 dz. 2.59 wow! It hurt!

Mornin'...fly-bye here...want to walk before it rains...it was sunny at 6 and is rapidly clouding up.

It is always nice when the scale news is not as bad as you think it could be. One pound is a small amount Firefly...you're right. All that exercise paid off!

Yes I've heard of that too Empress...wonder if that is why some of them have heart attacks...an aquaintance of mine had one due to low something in his blood...caused them to do some tests before he died and set his medications right. They were causing the problems...he lives!

May...chocolate chip day, tulip day 8th, cino de Mayo 5th, no socks day, 13th....other than May Day and Victoria Day and Memorial Day. Whaddya think?

Gotta go!!!!:wave: ALL MIA and Present!

Happy Friday, Queenlies! I do miss our Punkin. Not to mention our Wildfire who's been AWOL for quite a while now -- I had an e-mail address for her, will have to see if I can find it.

I've got a very busy day today at work and a funeral to go to (an uncle, but not one I was close too). So, mustn't linger.

Am getting self revved up for perfect behavior on the weekend to try to ensure a loss on Monday.

Hope all have a fabulous weekend!

xo
Arabella, WN

7.59 for a gallon of milk? Oy!

Nice here today. Fairly decent day yesterday. Walked but less than I should again. Tired out. But do seem to finally be feeling a bit better. A good night's sleep again.

Any of those days is fine. Maybe "running to no-socks day" or whatever. Springing to Tulip Day. Schlumping to Cinqo de Mayo. Not Chomping to Chocolate Chip Day.

Does that mean we could call it "THE :queen: s NOT CHOMPING THEIR WAY TO CHOCOLATE CHIP DAY? :lol: I'd have to check which date that was....

Thanks for the laugh Anagram. Your Humour is so Droll Dahling :lol:

Still chuckling....

Have to work today, so shorty here...am off for a walk eventhough it is still blustery...thought I was going to Kansas yesterday. Had some rain last night, and may be more on the way they say.

Did a lot of shop walking yesterday...and didn't really buy that much. Came home and had a nice chicken stir-fry with DH...no rice, no time to cook it. Just put it over baked yam...was yummy!

Gotta run...walk...:lol: :wave:

Yup, that's what I meant. It has my vote.

Damp and windy here today too. Need to get my body in gear and at least do some stretches. Seem to be feeling better.

My forsythia shocked me. They turned out to be lovely so I guess the late cut didn't hurt that much. Daffs, hyacinths, narcissus (i?) looking bright in the earlier sun too.

My exercise yesterday was to fertilize the back yard. I'd never done it before and wanted to see how it went before I hit the front part. Uuhh - anyone ever seen a green plaid lawn before?

Glad you didn't spend much. I just hit K-Mart for 3 little things. Spent $71 - one of those times you think "they" just have had to make a mistake. Pleased with purchases though.

Going to play w/princesses tomorrow - rush back Monday morning to finish off my crown (dental, not royal). And part w/lots more money! Almost done my tax return, I think. Another thing I've not done by myself before (though I always had input and review).

Nice weekend!

All the mention o' forsythia and daffs makes me a bit homesick for the midwest in spring ... there isn't any forsythia here, that I've ever seen at any rate. Daffodils, when found, are winter flowers or indoor items bought at Wally World! :) In fact, most of the pretty summer annuals I used to love are winter flowers here, but the good thing is having roses all year round ... not that I have roses because mine all die, but lots of people do! :)

No exercise or running for awhile until hamstring better, shopped for exercise ... cleaned house, napped, now will cook! See ye queenlies!

:bike: the :cookie:

:wave: