Good afternoon all,

I think I hit the proverbial wall this morning. Went out to do a small amount of shopping and figured I would come home and knock off my 60 mins on the treadmill. I was going to decide later if I was going to do 90. Well, I managed the first 30 and then I really didn't want to do any more. In fact, while getting to the point of doing my time I convinced my mother to do some herself. She's decided to do it 3 days a week until she starts working in the garden. She does 30 mins at somewhere near 2.0 mph. Just to walk a little really (she doesn't need to lose weight). I did force myself back on, but the lack of energy is a big issue. I'm going to heed the advice of the lifting book I've been reading and up my calories to 2200 daily, 2500 on lifting days. On the whole this is about 150 cals more a day than I've been taking, which won't make a difference overall. I just know that if I don't get the energy level up that's more of a problem.

It's not a bad day here - above freezing with a little sun even. From what I see in the case of long range forecasts this is a fluke. It may warm up a little next week... with rain. After that, more cold weather until the end of the month. The forecasters seem to feel that we'll have a more average April (which means warmer). I'm pretty sure most forecasts are only good for about 6-12 hours in the future though. :)

Catherine - that sounds good. It turned out to be pretty much a half lamb cut into pieces. We played a little 'identify' the cut this morning, but more than half of it is divided up in the freezer. We'll have some fresh tomorrow for dinner, so I will try marinating it as you mentioned. Thanks.

Kayleystar - very sorry to hear about the loss of your grandmother. :hug:

Debbie - erratic sleep patterns are not unusual for me. Eventually you get used to the fact that you just don't always sleep as well. When I was younger (and heavier) my mother used to tell me it was because I didn't get enough exercise. She doesn't say that now. I've come to the conclusion it's a family trait, as she sleeps about the same way. At least your bite is only a little swollen. One of our cats freaked out last summer when we were trying to take him to the vet. I ended up with a partial bite on one finger (near the knuckle). The finger swelled and it was weeks before it didn't look odd, and even longer before it didn't feel odd. He goes in the cage now. Well, they have to both go in the cage, at the same time. Separate trips to the vets created hissing/growling/fighting matches that had never been seen before. The big one (Gus) attacked the little one (Shadow) after Shadow's visit. It took two days before he wouldn't attack him on site, and then he found out that his little brother held a big grudge. Oh, and I do hope the meds help you mother. Knowing what's wrong should help them find a good treatment option for her.

Bernice - mutton comes from sheep and has a much stronger taste. My mother dislikes mutton completely (had a lot when growing up), but she likes lamb. It is a bit of an acquired taste, and you really have to trim it as some cuts can be quite fatty. Silly us, but it was on sale, and we felt it would be nice for a change. I think someone else has corned beef brisket on this week in honor of St. Patrick's Day, so we'll probably get some of it as well. I'm not sure how I manage the water, although I've always drank a lot. However, I don't drink milk or coffee, or any other fluid. I suspect on the days I exercise I sweat out a fair bit, so it's replacing some of that as well.

Tina - congrats on the house! I'm kind of with you (on the moving). I believe I swore that I'm not moving out of this house ever, or if I do, I'll just sell it furnished. We even got rid of some things, although we came from two households into one, so of course we should have. I built shelves (pre-drilled ones from Ikea) in the crawl space and now we have lots of shelves with well-organized stuff. Just too much of it. I re-organized the garage in the summer, getting rid of the old shelves that came with the house... and found things that I think were on them when we moved in ten years ago! Good luck with the move.

Cyn - sounds like a fun day. Hope you found a movie that you both enjoyed.

Carol - it's late enough in the season that I can tell you what I usually say at this time of year - ignore it, it will go away. It's melting/compacting around here and some of the items on the patio are peeking through. The only thing I remind myself is that we're at the end of the winter, not the beginning. I know what you mean about wanting to keep things to yourself. Years ago I used to go to the office (well plant really) gym in the morning before work. Most weeks I was out before anyone came in, until two of the women I worked with decided they would join me. I really missed my alone time! However, just think - you may have inspired your sister. That's a good thing.

TheWalrus - the good news is that you can walk on it, just remind yourself of that.

Well gals, I think maybe I'll have a nap. Or at least do something like just veg until it's time to finish off dinner. I'm making a cauliflower/bean/cheese chili in the crockpot, which I'll serve with a smoked chicken and turkey sausage. I remember that it didn't reheat well, so I've cut the recipe in half... so I'm not sure how it will turn out. However, I don't need to worry about it until 6pm so I do have time for that little nap.

hello ladies,
my fever is down some today. It was pretty much gone but seems to be creeping back up this evening. Hubby asked me tonight if i could possbilby cook a meal. SO i did a quicky meal.
daughter came home with fever again today. she has been sick for a week today. They changed her antibotic on thursday to cipro. Im hoping it will clear her up.
My eating hasnt been great but i am eating 3 times a day. I know from experience that my antibotic will tear my stomach up without food.
Hope everyone is having a good weekend
debi

debi-make sure you eat some yogurt with active cultures. The anti-biotic kills the good bacteria in your digestive tract at the same time it kills the bad ones. That will make your digestive system a mess. They found out recently that the appendix is where the good stuff is saved to re-populate the digestive tract, but the yogurt does it quicker.

Hi Peeps,

Another bad day yesterday. I dunno. I did well until the evening, and then all heck broke loose. I had some fruit slice jell candies in the cupboard that I bought in advance of my Passover seder. I can never find the darned things when it's close to Passover, so I bought two tubs of them at Trader Joes at a great price. At the time I knew it was a risk keeping them on hand because they're a problem for me. Sure enough, I dug in last night, and didn't stop with the candies. I'm going to throw out the other container of fruit slices, and take my chances closer to the holiday. No one cares about them but me, anyway, and if they are sold out later, so be it.

Today is better, and I think I should be able to close it out as an OP day.

Rainbow: Thank you for sharing your story about Nigel. It gives me hope that love, and a great relationship with a quality man, are possible. You are such a warm and giving person, I'm not surprised that he fell for you.

I haven't dated in several years since my divorce, but I am ready now for another relationship, and hope to meet someone great. With all the fat hating going on, it's hard to believe that a desirable man would be interested in me, especially here in CA where there is more emphasis on being fit and trim than in other parts of the country. I'm trying to hold on to my fabulosity when I put myself out there instead of thinking negatively and thinking I am not worthy because my body is fat and saggy.

As far as recreation goes, I'm not getting as much as I'd planned. The project I'm working on hit some snags, and I'm working today. Tomorrow, a friend is taking me out for an early birthday present. First pedicures, then lunch and shopping, then dinner. I can't wait.

Anne: Do you think you may be overexercising? Just a thought.

Debbie: Ugh, sleep. I have problems on and off, but my eating makes a difference. When eating well, I have a better chance of a full night's quality sleep.

Carol: Oh, I hear you on keeping things to yourself. I like a lot of alone time, too, so am careful about keeping some activities strictly for myself.

Debi: Glad you are feeling better.

Catherine: How's the tush?

Cyn: Planned fun days are wonderful. You need it. Have a great time.


Everyone, have a great OP day.

BattleAx - I have, but I don't really think so. With the exception of the treadmill each day I'm really very sedentary. I thought about cutting it back but I want to be more fit in the spring (if it ever comes). Working out my minimum calories with the lifting book gives me 2200 cals for a no exercise day, which is how I count the days with just the treadmill. I'm under that, and for a couple of weeks I'm willing to go up to it. It's not that much and I suppose the worst that could happen is that I stall for a while.

I feel better this evening, just lazing around the afternoon away. Tomorrow is a complete rest day, and other than some potting up of plants, I have nothing much planned. I'm surprised how much I'm enjoying the strength building routine... and I'm falling off the ball a little less! :)

And boy did I used to love those fruit slices. I know that my mother brings candy into the house each week, but she's been asked to be not so open about it. I've had a few days when I've been tempted to go look for them, but so far I've resisted. I think it's likely better to get rid of them.

I've sorta had a free for all this weekend so far. I've just eaten what ever I wanted. I'm definitely getting back on the wagon tomorrow. I bought some Slimfast because I have such a hard time making myself eat breakfast. It's now got 7g of protein in it. Then I will eat my regular lunch and dinner and snacks. I haven't been getting in my water either. I hope I haven't done too much damage in the weight area. I was up 1 lb this week, and I think I just felt, what the hey, might as well eat. I ate well all week, and still gained a pound. But it's over with now, so I'm ready to get back to healthy foods.
Also had another roadblock in the starting my business. The Eagles won't let me use their kitchen, so I'm back to square one.

Bernice, I don't sing but Jim does. I just like to go and listen. I'm way to shy to get up there and sing in front of people.
Shampooing carpets is definitely a workout in my book!

Tina, that's wonderful news about the house. That's so exciting! You'll have to post pics of the new place.

Carol, oops, that's too bad your sister is going to invade your domain. No chance of talking her out of it huh? Well, just remember to go at your own pace.

TheWalrus, great news about the leg....well...sort of. At least you can get around more and exercise some.

Anne, I think the weather has alot to do with alot of us feeling no uumph to get things done or to exercise. I know I'm having a terrible time, but then again, I didn't do too much of it last year either. I'm hoping to get out the DDR again since this is what I really enjoy. It just doesn't seem like a real workout to me though even though I do work up a sweat.
Anyhow, hope you get past the wall and I hope upping your calories will do the trick.

Battleax, sometimes I wonder if the sleep issues are a woman thing. Men never mention anything about not sleeping well. I find that when I eat well, I tend to sleep better too, and also if I don't eat close to bed time.
Sorry to hear your still struggling.Those gel thingies wouldn't of lasted long here either.

Have a great night!
Debbie

Hee hee -- this cracked me up. Thanks for the laugh! My husband has been in a pissy mood for a few days, and now so am I...grrr...the extra two weeks of castage was the last straw. BUT, tomorrow a whole new week starts, AND I'm going to finally go to the knitting store and beg someone to help me figure out some pattern inconsistencies. Then I'll be halfway done with three sweaters. Um, that means that technically I've gotten one finished right? If just in time for summer? ;)

Hi Debbie....so sorry to hear you can't use the Eagles Kitchen. I know your business will be successful because you ahve such determination. Another kitchen will turn up, just keep the faith. I can so relate to just sneaking in a weekend of splurges with eating. Sometimes, as long as one is studious and gets right back on track, it doesn't effect the weight loss. Kudos for planning to get right back on track and for making sure you get in breakfast.

Anne...keep resisting the slices!! And KUDOS to you for doing so well with your exercises. I too went out and bought supplies today to repot some plants tomorrow. I will be thinking of you then my potting friend!!

Sandra, thank you for your kind words. I will keep you in my prayers and trust that God can and will lead the man into your life that will sweep you off your feet....Cinderella! :)
oooooo pedicures....lunch...shopping and dinner too....oooh lalala oh wait, i hate shopping! no I loooooooooooooooooathe shopping!! haha
when is your birthday?? Mine is March 29th! I love birthdays!


Debimitch....so gald you fever is down and that you are feeling better...hugs to you...:hug:


Kayley....I am so sorry to hear that you lost your grandmother. I know that is not an easy circumstance to handle but I know that your grace will see you through. My Nana passed on last year and I am so thankful of all the wonderful memories I have. Special prayers for you.


Catherine....biohazard incinerator....you crack me up!!


Bernice...thank you for your kind words. I am so blessed and if I can just give a tiny spark of hope to someone else, that would mean the world to me.

Hope everyone has a wonderful evening.
rainbowsmiles
carol sorry i missed you :) try again!!!

Battle-My tush is better which is a good thing since I spend most of my time on it.

Rainbow-I joke that my husband is a walking toxic waste dump, so I've looked into adding an incinerator to the boiler. Himself didn't find that as funny as I did.

Hey gals. I'm still hanging in here. Still on Plan!
I have a HUGE NSV to share! I've been doing this Richard Simmons "Party off the Pounds" DVD. It's essentially just Sweating to the Oldies with 80's Music. Well, the workout itself is about 51 minutes long (including cool down). Usually I get to the 28-30 minute mark before stopping. The other day I made it to that point, sat down and rested for about 5 minutes and finished the thing. Today I wasn't going to exercise at all. I was feeling lazy. Then about an hour ago, I decided to get up and at least get as close to 30 mins as I could. I thought I was going to stop early, It seemed to be harder than usual. I forced myself through that "midway song" and it was downhill from there. I finished it ALL! I did it WITHOUT stopping. :o

I'm sweaty as heck and tired and I may never ever manage to do this again, but YAY!
:carrot:

Also, I think I've lost about 4 pounds since I posted in here last. It's been a crazy few weeks :D

Well I got the closet done. I had to run out today and get a 3rd box of hangers..but in the end it looks s much better and it feels less cluttered. I did grab a few things to put in the donation pile and feel like I have a better sense of what actually own. Even today, once I got dressed I put on a shirt I have not worn since the week I bought it...whenever that was.

DH's dad called this morning to try to play peacemaker...which means ordering DH to talk to his mother. Check, please.

Battle...I didn't realize you were also Jewish :) It's nice to know that I'll have someone to commiserate with during Pesach. I am so anti-matzah. One year I had my wisdom teeth out during spring break/passover just to avoid having to eat any matzah at all. We're not making a seder. We have an invite for 1st night and will get one for 2nd. DH's folks don't do anything....no, that's not true. They will all get together at an aunt's house and eat lamb on a Sunday and call it Passover. I myself do not eat lamb, so it becomes another night of let's look at Julee who doesn't eat what we eat. We don't have any problems finding Passover candy here...of course...I don't eat it so I don't care as much...but it's one of the nice things about being in LA...and working in a very Jewish neighborhood...no shortage of kosher food anywhere.

I did really well last night at my dinner. I brought a SmartOnes mac&cheese so I could eat my version of what the kids were eating. I'm over the whole self-conscious thing. I'm eating food and thats what is good. If I were doing shakes only or that ridiculous cookie diet...then I'd be more aware that I was sticking out...

I am having a hard time coping with some of my work-related stress. I run youth programs for teens..normal middle/upper-middle class Jewish teens...who have had more than their fair share of problems as of late and it's starting to eat at me because so many of them come and talk to me and because I hate seeing them in pain. I need to figure out a way to deal with it and get some down time scheduled in.

Great discovery of the week...Starbucks Mocha Frappucino ice cream pops. 97% fat free. 2 WW points. DELICIOUS! Plus I know that DH won't eat them :) He hates coffee.

I ate too much at dinner...likely because I didn't eat enough during the day.

Kayley...I am so sorry about your grandmother. I hope you find comfort in your years together and in your fond memories and that you and your family can be strong for each other.

Off to watch a movie with DH...12 hour work day tomorrow...wheee.

Just another quickie, the pc is very 'poorly' :mad:and keeps shutting down.
Kayley, so sorry about your grandmother.:hug:xxxxxxx
Battle, I LOVE the 'fabulosity' quote,;) if you ever feel you're losing it, pop on here there's lots of us who can remind you how great AND PRETTY you are.xxxxxx
Rainbow thanks for the kind words.:hug:xxx Where in the UK does your hubby come from? He's so lucky to be over there, green cards are like gold dust! I'm so glad that you found each other & are so happy.xxxxx
Gg/carol, I'm sure if she goes she'll soon give up, seeing how hard you work will put her to shame.;)xxxxxx
Valerie, one day, when we can afford it I may come over & suprise you & some of my other 3FC buddies!xxxxxx
Well I'm UP again, I was 'being kind to myself' :(whilst the meds kicked in, YEAH, RIGHT!! Gaining about 6lbs or more in a week, what sort of kindness is that? Anyway here I am REALLY being kind to myself by exercising and eating right. How stupid am I?
xxxxxxsharon:hug:

Sharon - ahhhhhhhhhhh - how sweet - unfortunately if she starts she won't give up - just out of spite. I'm hoping she just forgets about it. I told my trainer yesterday - he was so funny - without even saying anything other than my sister is thinking of coming - he blurts out "Did you tell her it's your time B**ch" - gotta love him.

Off to swim - see your all later.

Hugs,
Carol

Carol...I just love your trainer!! Ring me back sometime today....;)

Sharon....Nigel is from Brighton and his mum and dad sitll reside there. I love Brighton. We spent a month touring Europe on our honeymoon...and I absolutely fell in love with Mevagissey. We would love to move there after he retires (hopefully). He has been a resident of the states for 20 years and loves it here but his heart is and will forever remain in England. He was able to show me all the major downtown London sights, and I had such a blast riding in the double decker buses and those fab black taxis! I have never walked so much in my life as when we were in London! I went to Harrod's but OMG....its pricey! Didn't buy much, mainly some jewelry and some shoes! I love shoes! haha I adore the pubs and ooooo cornish pasties from the west coast! I so enjoyed the changing of the guards and just seeing all the royal places...and the old buildings and churches. We we able to do the downs, and see the white cliffs of Dover and visited several castles and traveled all the way to land's end and st michaels mount...and then one week we took the eurostar to paris and I have to say, a few of the parisians were rude as can be to me! They certainly don't take too kindly to over weight american ladies I can tell you that! The eiffle tower was a cool place to visit....not as romantic as the movies portrait it to be! I much prefer London over Paris. I have never seen such a bustling city as London...and I have been to all except 4 american states...and to most major cities in th USA...including LA, Chicago, New York, Dallas, Atlanta, Memphis, Miami...and nothing compares to London at all! I love the round-abouts...and while there are a very few in the states, they are not that common....although they make much more sense to me than all the traffic lights. I found the people so endearing and lovely in England. Everywhere we went, I was treated so kindly. I learned to drive!!! on "your" side of the road! I was not difficult on the motorway but on the b roads...ooooooh my, there were some tiny narrow lanes! When we went down to Mevagissey and St. Ives...(reminds me of a nursery rhyme....as I was going to St. Ives!!) I thought Nigel was driving in the wrong area...it was so narrow, and right smack dab through the middle of the shops...I could literally have leaned out the window and touches the sides of the buildings...and we had to watch for people popping out of the shops! AND....it was a two-way lane!!!!!! As you know, when you see or meet an oncoming car, someone has to back up to a passign spot in order to pass each other! It was hilarious! I laughed so hard..and Nigel drove so fast....zipping up and down lanes...stopping for sheep to cross!!!! Hahaha. I loved the coast...it is absolutely amazing to be bounding over hills and around curves...with the side of the road growth of vines etc...talle thena the car itself...and not truly being able to see much...then all of a sudden bursting out into an opening with the most amazing panoramic vista view of the coastline and a tiny coastal village at the bottom of the hill....and you'd pray that the brakes worked well as you meandered through the tiny tiny narrow streets to park along the coastal floor!!! (when the tide was out) parking is such a premium. We literally parked in damp harbor inlet bottom! Mindful of the tide....of course. That reminds me...Mind The Gap...catching the various trains...always seeing the words...Mind The Gap...posted on the concrete floors of the train station....so people would make sure to see the gap between the train and the edge where you board. Oh and ... in London...painted on the streets...at the roundabouts...were the words...LOOK RIGHT... !!! I love England! Thanks for asking...about Nigel...and allowing me to travel down memory lane of yesteryear...hugssssssss to you.

Heather...KUDOS to you love for finishing that exercise video...! It gives me hope that one day I can make it all the way through too! I can ride 10 miles on my bicycle, 20 on the stationary one without stopping, but still have yet to complete richard simmons without stopping! Way to GO!

hugs everyone
rainbowsmiles

OMGosh! I am awol a couple of days and it takes me forever to catch up!!

I am mentally feeling better and made myself go bicycling yesterday before the rain came through. It took 2 hours for me to get up the motivation, but it was nice while riding. I also didn't push myself and reminded myself to enjoy the scenery. I rode 5.6 miles at a fairly slow pace. Baby steps, right?

I am trying to get my water intake back up so I don't get dehyrdated as well.

I have added some omega-3 fish oil because a guy at work in an NIH diet study is taking them and dropped his triglycerides 103 points!! One more pill to the morning mix won't hurt me. I'll see how my blood work is at the end of March when it's time to get it done.

I've also tried a new recipe to get my dreaded veggies in. It's a recipe by a WW woman (I haven't calcuated the points) and it turned out pretty good!

It's a pureed cashew base (just water and raw cashews), steam an onion and small potato, then add broccoli and cauliflower and fresh basil. Add some veggie boullion. Salt and pepper to taste. Puree the veggie mixture. Add the cashew base. It's filling and tasty. She also suggested replacing the broc/caul/basil with spinach/kale/thyme.

Hugs and Luv to all!
Ratkitten

PS.. anyone watching ACC bball?? I can't believe Clemson did well on Sat! :)

Hi everyone,
Just a note to say hello. Our pc had a freakin' virus and I've lost just about everything. All my photos of my family, addresses, recipes etc. I'm very, very upset. But the good news is we do have internet again. It's been down since Thursday or Friday.
Debbie, I'm going to see if I can find that letter in the email I sent you, but whatever we had, wiped out most of my stuff saved in gmail too.
Hugs,
Sandy

Debbie ...I just checked. It's all gone. I'm sorry.

I've banned myself from Denny's restaurant!!!!!!!!! My friend and I went there after the gym...I opted for the grilled chicken burger and salad. Well they brought me fries - zoinks - I did eat some! When I came home I went on their website! I couldn't believe how many calories I had consumed!!! Sheesh!! Lesson learnt-Prepare before you go out to eat!!!

I recently went on a day trip to Grand Forks, ND and I picked up these 100 calorie granola bars!! They were Oreo and delicious!!! I think they are made by Nabisco (I could be wrong). That little bar pleases my cravings of chocolate! They also had chips ahoy and nutter butter. But for only 2 WW points...shucks that's not bad.

Today I'm taking my dog (he's a pug) to his monthly Pug party! The rescue I belong to has monthly meet-ups for the Pugs (and pug crosses)! He loves it!

Take care ladies!! Keep up the great work!!!!

Hey peeps!

I'm about ready to head out to my day of fun. Can't wait. It has been a long time since I spent a full day with this friend.

I did throw out my fruit slices after eating a bunch, but the amount I ate fit into my calorie limit for the day, so all was well. I just can't do that too much, because the sugar sets me off and it's hard to stay OP once I'm eating cr@p.

Debbie: I'm sorry to hear the Eagles won't let you use their kitchen. I hope you find another kitchen to use.

I hope you do well getting back on plan. If the Slimfast helps, all the better.

Walrus: Have fun at the knitting store. I admire those with talent for crafts. I don't have the patience or talent.

Sharon: You can lose the 6 lbs. and more. Sometimes life is very challenging.

Thank you for the compliments : )

Carol: Enjoy your swim. It sounds great. I would love to do that on a Sunday.

Rainbow: I love the UK. I have been to England many times, and feel very much at home there. When I was in college I did a bicycle tour through the British Isles. It was the trip of a lifetime. The last time I was in England, I was visiting an American friend who was living in London for a couple of years. We took the train to Paris, and it was great. Very civilized way of traveling.

I love the Cornish pasties and sausage rolls and cream cakes and all that good (bad) stuff. What really kills me is the fish and chips. Fortunately it's hard to find good fish and chips in London, so the last time I wasn't stuffing myself with them.

Ratkitty: That recipe sounds good. If you have time, post it in the recipe section.

Heatherdw: Great job finishing that exercise video! I'm glad to hear you are doing well OP.

Julee: I hear you on the matzo. I have to stay away, because I love to eat it slathered with butter. I plan to make one serving of matzo brei and that is it. The rest of the matzo not eaten at the seder or in my matzo brei goes in the trash. I don't really keep the holiday anyway, so it's not hard to avoid.

Have a great day everyone

Debbie- check out some of the churches locally, maybe you can use a kitchen there. Or an elementary school. Ours does!

I all just checking in real quick today then on the run again. You would think that as much running as I do that I would be a toothpick! Weigh In today. YEAH I lost 4 lbs. YEAH young daughter gained 1 lb. and older daughter lost 2 lbs. Hubby weigh in yesterday lost 8 lbs! We have been doing really good. I think I actually got all of my water in this week. That is about 175 oz. per day x 7!!! If someone wants to add to the olympic pool that would be fine. I am going to try this week to keep up with it. Gotta go turn in GS cookie $$ and then the Y or bike with daughter. I have to first get bike out of shed and dust it off!!! It has been sitting for 2 years. I am excited about getting it out this year. Later

Heather, glad to see you posting again! And great news on the NSV and the 4lbs gone forever. You're doing really well!

Julee, you inspired me to get my closet cleaned out too. It took some doing, but you wouldn't even recognize it as the same closet. I even found a sweater in there that I forgot about cuz it didn't fit. It's almost too big now but still wearable. Jim got rid of alot of his cruddy looking clothes too. We have two huge trash bags ready to go to the Salvation Army. Now just two more closets to go. But we need to make shelves in one of them for all of my craft stuff.
Did I see....cookie diet?????

Sharon, sorry to hear your still struggling. I hope you can get OP again, for yourself. It really is so hard once you've been off to get back on again. Just hang in there.

Carol, too funny about what your trainer said.....but sooooooo right!

Ratkity, Hey! thats great news that you got out on your bike. I remember last year how you really enjoyed it. I hope you get many more days of riding in after all the bad weather.

Sandy, don't sweat it. I still have it if you want me to send it back to you. But really, don't worry. It seems you have enough on your plate right now. Just take care of yourself and I hope you can get the puter working better soon so you can post here.

betty grrl, how cute that must be to see all those cute little pugs. I love their scrounged up little faces.

Battleax, YAY on getting rid of those slices!!! I'm sure I'll find another kitchen. I think I'm going to send out some letters to different places and see how that goes.
Hope you're having a lovely day with your friend. Buy yourself something beautiful!

worthapenny, thank you for the great ideas on the schools and churches. I'm definitely going to give it a try.
Have fun on the bike ride. Congrats on the weight loss and your daughters too.

Just sorta shlumping around today. Too cold to go outside and do anything. Started a new puzzle. Did some laundry and had a very good breakfast today. I bought my slimfast and some bananas to go in it, but I will start that tomorrow.
Getting my indoor planting stuff ready to start my seeds probably next week. I'll get my hands in dirt somehow!
Hope all are drinking, eating well, and moving.
Debbie

Good afternoon all,

Well, I've got my transplanting done and put a few more seeds in. I think next year I'll just plant the geraniums in every other spot on the tray I used, and not transplant them. The tray has quite deep divisions and they weren't root bound. I was just concerned that another couple of months in the tray might be too long. Transplanting them today I realised I was concerned about nothing. Planting something, if only transplants, makes spring feel a little closer.

Debbie - I'm sorry to hear that you can't use that kitchen. I'm convinced that you will find a way to work it out. I switched to adding a protein shake for breakfast a while ago. It just seemed like an easy 90-cal, 17g protein addition. I'm a little odd, but I mix the chocolate one I get at Costco with a fruity one I get at another store. They aren't the tastiest thing, but they are fast. I usually take one just before bed, as this is usually a high hunger time for me, and it seems to help. And hey, get out the DDR. I'm sure I've seen a quote somewhere along the lines of the best exercise is one you'll keep up. If you break a sweat then it's doing lots of good.

Debi - hope you're feeling a little better.

TheWalrus - good luck on those three half sweaters. And no, they don't count as having one done, but nice try. :)

Rainbowsmiles - I bet your plants might be getting ready to go outside though. Oh well, I hear that April might be seasonal for us. Right now, I'd take that!

Heather_dw - that's a great NSV. I know how it goes, with great enthusiasm you start, and are so susprised you can't finish. It's wonderful that you did. One of the best DVDs I've seen is one where the fellow leading it (Tony Horton) reminds people starting out that it's okay to use the pause key - that's what it's for.

Julee - I so need to go through my closet... :)

Sharon - likely some of that is water since 6 pounds in a week would mean you were more than kind. The last time (Jan 4th) I went completely overboard I ended up 5 pounds, almost overnight. It took another 7 days before it was back to where it was on that day. Eating well will make it work out in the end.

Carol - love your trainer!

Ratkitten - it doesn't matter how long it took you to get up the motivation, what's important that you did. :carrot:

Sandy - that's it - I need to back up the machine tomorrow... or tonight.

Betty Grrl - it's sometimes hard to do, but I'm pretty good at sending things back when they aren't as I asked for. I know I couldn't avoid eating the french fries if they ended up on my plate. I was out with some friends before Christmas in a very expensive restaurant and we made the guy take the bread basket back (it was a group decision). And it was such a nice one...

BattleAx - enjoy your day out, and glad to hear those slices didn't put you over for the day. Eventually we'll all have to find a way to work in just a little of what we like. Do you have any bulk stores in your area? I know here I could go and buy just a few of what I wanted. I almost did that the day I went in for the soy nuts, but decided another day would be better.

Penny - congrats on the 4lbs. I'm going to add yesterday's water, so if it's not already in, I'll add yours.

Catherine - so I put together some chops last night (leg I think) and sealed them up with the marinade. There was a great discussion about how to cook them today. Although the barbecue might be best I really wanted to wash my hair this afternoon and do laundry. It's still too cold to go out without it completely dry. Then there was a discussion about putting them in the oven, but had no idea of how long. Then I spied the crockpot, which I used last night, and will use again tomorrow. So I put them in it, with a little veggie stock, so we'll see how that works out. It probably wasn't the best cut to braise, but so be it. It smells wonderful!

Well, I should go off and put some laundry in and have a shower. We keep the plants in the crawl space and not yet, but soon, I'll start to be itchy from the insulation. Take care all and hope you're having a good day.

Well I got up and dressed today. I had a bridal shower planned for today, I had been working on it for weeks. I felt like i had to show up.Mom was great and made my sandwiches so all I had to do was show up. I went and stayed for over half of the shower. She had a really good turn out and I cant wait to see all the neat pampered chef stuff she got.

My sister in law noticed that I have lost weight!! She was so supportive.
I ate 1/4 of a sandwich and a few veggies with no dip and I took a tiny peice of cake and took 2 bites and threw it away...it was soooooooooo sweet. I did have a cup of punch.
I think we will just have sandwiches here tonight for dinner.

OH Great news!!!!!! I lost 4lbs this week.

Heya BattleAx:

Thanks for the kind words -- I'm not sure "talent" is the right word for it -- just an inability to sit still! Plus, I buy nice yarns and so am very careful around them -- I'm not one of those brave folks who will take their projects around with them, exposing them to who knows what! :D This means that I knit only at home, in front of the TV, and I don't eat when I'm knitting. Double bonus :)

Hope you all have a great week! You can do it!

I snowed again. It was a dirty trick after a week of seemingly warm weather. The sidewalks had even melted and were dry. I'll be glad when this week is over and I can get some rest. I still can't seem to concentrate on my paper. I'm glad it isn't due until the 11th of April.

Congrats Debi on the 4lb loss!!!! Glad you were feeling well enough to go to the shower I know that you have been working on it for so long! would of been a shame for you to have missed it! Isn't it nice to have people notice when you lose lbs??!!?? makes it more concrete!

Catherine love the little doggy with the green on! Is that for St. Patty's day? cute!

Well I have been on target for my calories still working on the fat, carb & protein ratios but I figure that will all fall into place as I get more accustomed to eating healthy! I have cut out extra fat......mostly all our fat comes from food's natural fats.

I made smothered burritos last night although I put my recipe into TDP and it came up with a figure.....I think it is off a bit since it counts us eating 1 serving of not only the burrito but also the sauce....and in actuality we don't eat very much of the sauce with the burrito so I just put in one serving and knew we were under our calories (even with it counted that way we were still under but not by much). Does anyone know how to get a more accurate calorie count for a recipe? should I just add up all calories for each ingredient then divide by servings? or is that what TDP does? I know that the majority of the fat is in the sauce thus the reason why we dont use alot of it when I serve. oh well I guess its better than not counting huh?
I was surprised to find out that my spanish rice was only 120 calories per cup! I use olive oil so I know that is a key to not being hi in bad fats too! DH was thrilled he could have spanish rice LOL I havent really cooked anything mexican since we started LOL

I made up some breakfast burritos with one egg in each tortilla (scrambled but like an oamlet) 1 TBS salsa, 1/4 cup of spanish rice (I still cook rice like my kids are all home LOL had tons of extra) I froze them today and we can have those for a quick breakfast!

I also made individual SF Jello with those ziploc bowls for snacks. DH likes something sweet every now and then and these or SF pudding does the trick! Also very cost effective!!!

I did 3 loads of laundry already today and have probably 3 more to do tonight.....DH said he would put it away if I fold!!! YEAH!!! I hate putting clothes away!!! I also cleaned 2 of the 3 bathrooms we have....DD does her own. I have NOT wanted to clean in months!!! I go through spurts where I could care less if something is cleaned. When the kids were real little it was really bad! If anyone was coming over it was a mad DASH to get the house presentable! I have since then done TONS better but still fall into spells where I don't want to do anything around the house. With having teenagers for so long and 4 of them! I didn't have to do much around the house because I would just assign them different chores and they did it. Now that it is just DH & DD I can't rely on DD to do it all! So I've vowed to get my butt in gear and start taking control of the cleanliness of our home! Plus it is extra exercise that I haven't been doing regularly! Added bonus! LOL

Now mind you my house is not filthy.....just alot of dust bunnies get over looked and things that I would clean better get left behind.....you know kids they never clean to our standards.

Well now that I poured my dirty household tale. I better finish up the laundry & I still have that carpet in the dining room to shampoo!

talk to you all tomorrow!
Bernice

Posted the veggie puree recipe to the recipe thread. Even ran it thru Nutritiondata.com for analysis of 1 cup serving.

I didn't realize there were so many tasteful recipes out there in puree form. Apparently, there's a lot of people that need foods in that consistency. There's hope for my tender tummy yet!

Luv,
RK

Helloooooooo everyone :)
OMG....i so dislike shopping....i loathe shopping...no i detest shopping! haha As you can guess Nigel and I went shopping...yesterday and today....now I ponder....

why do dept stores put the large womens sizes in their upstairs floor way in the back in the corner and right past the lingerie dept??? has anyone ever noticed that? in 4 major dept. stores it was like that. uggg

snow?? catheine...oh my...nigel and i wer able to get into the swimming pool this afternoon and we swam for about an hour before the sun went down too low to shine on the pool anymore. the pool core temp was about 75 so it was still a wee bit chilly but the outside temp was nice and warm. i do love canada but i declare i love to soak up some rays. i know i know....in mid august when all of you are enacting splendor in the grass i will be sweating like a bullfrog in a frying pan...and probably complaining of the humitity! i guess we can't have it both ways!

bernice...love your st pattys avatar...so cute and sweet! just like YOU! I USE CALORIE KING DOT COM...to look up any calories i need and then i just add up all the ingredients...even the small 5 calorie ones...and divide by the servings. i especially love making my homemade veggie soup. i am sooo with you on putting away the clothes! im thankful nigel does that for me! i think british men just help more....omg he does dishes often and vacuums and just helps me with so much any time i need it! his dad is like that too and he is 81 and still helps tremendously around the house! i love it!

walrus...i wish i could knit...i can crochet but love the look of knit sweaters! kudos to you for having that talent!

:hug::hug::hug: debimitch! WAY TO GO! what wonderful successes you are having...4 pounds lost! thats AWESOME! and dressing up and being gorgeouuuusssss...and then ahving such splendid control over the eating...what a terrific inspiration you are!! thanks for sharing and congrats!!!!!!!

anne...uggg....i was bad and didnt get those plants repotted! nigel and i were shopping...i so dislike shopping....oh i said that already! ugggg....nigel took me shopping for a long formal black dress for something he is planning tomorrow and tomorrow night...but he won't tell me. its one year ago today he proposed...so i know he has something up his sleeve. i look forever to find something in my size that was elegant...and he finally picked out one....and it is absolutely GORGEOUS! i will try to get pics made tomorrow night and send you one. i am not very feminine...more like a freight train...so its difficult for me to dress up and feel pretty. i always feel like a beached whale stuffed in a dress. oh well...i will keep my spirits high anyway...i am sending you summer sunshine in a big basket....hope you get it!

debbie...what type of puzzle did you start? i love doing puzzles too. nigel and i like charles wysocki puzzles, have you ever seen those?

battle...ong i would so love to be fit enough to do a bicycle tour in england anywhere...they have so many foot paths...and i was so amazed that the locals will just let practically anyone pass on their land and even camp out! I adore England.
ooooooooo sultana scones with strawberries and clotted cream!! i forgot about those! yummmm lets do move there! you want to?? do tell...how was your fab day of fun and pampering today???

sandy..im so sad to hear about your computer. that happened to me and i didnt really care about anything except some of the pics...i can never get back. it hurts i know. im sorry about that. hugsssssssss:hug: to you

carol.....ohhhhhh it was awesome to chat with you...i was so busting to share in the excitement!!! please say a prayer for me! hugsssss

ratkitten....OMG i soooooooooo wish you lived near me...we could go riding everyday!!! 5.6 miles....GF THAT IS AWESOME......WAY TO GO!!!!!!!!!!! keep riding....it gets easier....and dont u just love the wind in your hair and the sun on your face when you ride!!! hugss


penny...OMG....congrats on losing 4 more pounds AND having GS cookies in the house! WOW, now YOU are a lady with willpower!! THAT IS FABULOUS! WAY TO GO!

everyone have a great evening :)
rainbowsmiles

Hey I hope everyone had a great day. After turning in the GS $ the daughter wanted to go to the Y. So I walked the treadmill for 30 minutes while she walked the track and watched the race. Then we went swimming for an hour. It ffelt good to go and exercise. The weather is getting nice enough to walk again outside too! I didn't get the bike out today. I just wanted to check in. I need to get hubby's suitcase ready now to travel in the morning. Later

Hey Rainbow, now that I think about it you're right about the "full figured or plus sized sections". They are either right out of the way in the back and/or in a section way behind the lingere. I hate shopping for clothes! I usually start crying either in the change room or when I in the van. If my fiance knows I've gone clothes shopping he usually stays away from me. The nice thing here in Canada we have a store (suppose it would be close to being like a Lane Bryant store in the USA) called Penningtons. They actually have nice clothes in there, and current as far as fashion goes. I love their sales!!! I loaded up on different sizes of pants (ranging from sz 28 to sz 22) this way when I get the weight off I'll have something to wear!

Battle: I keep it to a certain extent. I work at a synagogue full time so if I want to bring food for lunch it has to be kosher for passover. I already am limited to only bringing in dairy/vegetarian food as it is. DH doesn't keep it. I don't have the time or patience to clean the house and change out all the dishes...maybe down the road when we have a bigger place. It just makes things really challenging...but it will also give me a really good excuse to not go to work during Passover and take some down time (that I need soooooooooooo badly). I loved my Grandma's matza brei and have never had any better. The thing is...ALL of the deli's and diners here in LA sell it year round...sheesh.

Debbie: Way to go on the closet! It felt great to get it done and I am happier looking at it. The "cookie diet" is a diet plan where you have these "specially formulated cookies" and you get to eat a certain number of them a day and a sensible dinner. I know a couple who did it to lose some weight pre-weding and by the time the wedding rolled around I think they were ready to eat anything that wasn't walking away from them. I am seeing more commercials for it lately...but it just makes no sense to me.

Anne...good luck on the closet mission!!! You can do it :)

I had a long day that was less rotten than I had expected but less than wonderful. Pray for me in these next 2 weeks...I need all the help I can get. At least today with the carnival I did not go crazy. DH and I went for a wonderful breakfast...which held me over for a while. I had a turkey sausage with mustard and grilled onions and a small ear of corn at the carnival...a ton of water and a small bag of popcorn. Dinner was sushi and then carrots for a snack. Did I mention that I had over 120 oz. of water today?

Nighty night amigas!