Hi Ladies,
I posted some pics of me at 75lbs gone, if anyone is interested. I can tell more in the side view than the front view. I also noticed I'm listing to one side. I wonder what's up with that? :?:
toodles,
Debbie

Debbie,

Amazing pictures! You've done so well. the side view definitely shows off the weight loss much more prominently! It’s amazing that people can actually get as far as you have come. I still have my serious doubts about being able to do this myself. But thank you for posting your pictures, they are more encouraging than you can possibly imagine.

Also, I noticed you standing to one side as well. You may just be like me. I find that when someone has a camera on me, whether I want it or not, I tend to strike a pose…not a good one either. It’s kind of like my body recoiling in fear of the camera. Maybe you do that too and you just never noticed it until now?

Dusty

Dusty,
Thank you so much on your comments on my pics! I'm glad they are encouraging to you too. Believe me, I was in the same boat as you when I first started. I didn't ever think I would get this far!

On the standing weird, my Mom has it too and the therapist that she has even taped up her back to make her stand straighter! I really didn't notice it in me until she said she was standing weird and that her blouses would droop to one side. Then I thought back, and mine do the same thing. If you notice in the pic of the 50lb loss, my shirt is to one side. Mine droops on the left (left handed) and Mom's is on the right (right handed). I don't know if that has anything to do with it. Just another weird thing about my body. :rofl:

Congrats Debbie!! You look great. We started this around the same time and I have lost about 25 pounds, and you have lost 75. Good for you (bad for me). I really need to get my actions aligned with my wishes. I can do this. I should be able to. So many things I can achieve, and this is one of them.

Carol...thank you :) You have done very well, in many ways.

Battle...where have you been? I am glad to see you are doing better. I always look forward to seeing your posts. Hope you are still working on the "right path".

Ratkitten...good to see you posting more often than you were. Looks like you are doing well. Yay girl!! If you could give me a boot in the pants on occasion, I would appreciate it. I have eaten horribly today, but I will get myself down to my basement and ride the bike. I will. Because I don't want to eat myself to death.


Annie...can't say anything other than you are a miracle. You work your butt off, and interestingly, your butt falls off. :) You are a great example of someone who could have said "this is insurmountable", but you have WON. You did it. And for that, I hope you always know that you can do anything. Because you have probably done the hardest thing ever.

Sorry I can't provide personals to everyone. But, I am going to give posting the old college try.

Until later, take care and be well,
Angie

Debbie-When you lose a lot of weight in a relatively short period of time, your center of gravity changes. I catch my feet, run into doorways, and constantly catch myself from tilting or falling. It gets better, but does take some time to adjust to. I feel like a 14 year old boy who grew a foot over the summer, and becomes instantly clumsy.

Debbie_ your pictures are amazing! I am so proud of you!! I can really tell it in the side view!!

annie_ great job on the weight loss.......you inspire me so much!! What did the dr say??? and how are you feeling today??

carol_ good job on the pound ..that great after such a big loss last week.

dmpls_ where are you today?? I know shampooing carpets...wanna come and do mine..Im starting to see tiny spots again..I think the little ones juice cups must leak at times.

catherine_ sorry your having internet trouble. Hopefully it will be up and running agian tommorow.


dusty- glad shopping went well.

penny- great picture of your husband...do tell how he has lost so much weight.

realist_ 25lbs is a good loss... YOu should be proud that you have been able to keep it off!!!! That is what my challenge is going to be...I am good at losing but bad at keeping it off!!!!

Im wearing my favorite gown from last summer and I cant keep it on my shoulders..better watch out or else hubby might like it to much!!LOL
debi

Congrats Realist! To be down 25 pounds and not put weight on is wonderful!
And with dedication and hard work you can achieve your goal.
Ratkitty, yes the heat makes my ankles swell terrible...The right one balloons up the most...I fell and hurt it in the winter....And now it constantly swells..
But they both do balloon .... I try to wean myself of salt in the summer....
Congrats Debbie!! You are doing great!
ggg Good job on letting that pound go!
Today is a holiday here in Canada .....And I went to work for 4.5 hours...When I came home in the afternoon I went on the p.c. for a while ...And boredom made me realize ....I kept thinking of snacking.... Decided I better leave the house so at 3 pm ... I went out for a 50 minuite walk....came home and ate supper .....And watched news, went on the p.c.
And I did not know what to do with myself....So out again I went for a walk!!Walked for over 60 minuites!!Tomorrow I will be so sore....But I did keep out of the fridge!! Lol Angels:carrot:

Debbie - your pics are amazing.

Angie - I'll try not to break my arm patting myself on the back but I am really starting to feel "different". I am not a quick loser and I have come to grips with that (most of the time). The support I received when I first started from you, Heather, Rat, Catherine Annie, Battle, Nancy and Debbie has kept me going - lean on me - it's my turn. We are going to dinner Thursday night with friend from Dallas - she's a Dallas Cowboy cheerleader - I used to be so nervous but now I'm confident - she may or may not say anything as I haven't seen her since last July 4th but I know the difference - doesn't mean I didn't model for family what I plan to wear in front of her on the 4th at the pool.

Well I started July out with a bang - 84 minutes of exercised which included a warm up 5k.

Time to go try the BLT with the 70 calorie bacon - thanks for the suggestion Debi.

Hugs to all,
Carol

I am addicted to the BLTs I eat them weekly. This morning i had scabbled eggbeater with jalopano and onions with ff cheese and 2 slices of bacon on whole wheat toast..it was awesome and stayed with me till lunch. I picked another pepper to have in the morning in my eggs.YUM!!

Good evening all,

What a gorgeous day we had here today. I did my cardio outside, picked mulberries, and ended up making jam. Kind of made it up as I went along with the jam and made mulberry-apple-grapefruit, which turned out quite well. Had my swim and enjoyed my afternoon snack (with a drink) on the patio. I'm glad it was a nice day for those that had the day off here (Canada Day).

Bernice - the one thing that changed as I started to lose weight was my shoe size. Nothing major, but some of my shoes ended up quite loose. It really wasn't something I expected. Oh and thanks for the comments on the new pics. I saw the ones you posted of hubby - what a big change for him.

Naytally - because I started a strength training system I actually sit down the night before and plan everything I'm going to eat. My problems in the past have been that I eat too little when trying to lose weight. This way I don't end up in the same situation. Planning the next day's meals are second nature now.

Ratkitten - I'm waging a war on the birds and squirrels this year. I netted parts of the tree and hung up halloween decorations and tin foil and stuff. In the end the netting is the best thing though. This winter when the tree is trimmed and I can get at the fence behind it I'm planning to put a large piece of netting up and tie it to the fence. In the spring (after it blooms) I can pull the net up and over the trees.

Annie - you can come and clean for me anytime. There's air conditioning and a pool out back.... :)

Catherine - it sounds like you're having a rough time with water retention. I'm glad to hear that you're getting back to normal. Hope you're good to go for the football game. Sorry about the internet though. It's annoying when things like this happen on holidays isn't it?

Realist - I'm look for a jeweler first and get some guidance. They may be able to order/get you the gem. Decades ago I got a chunk of amethyst. Our local jeweler cut the stones for my mother and made some lovely jewelry out of it.

Angels4u - Congrats for staying away from the cake. I admit that my cravings are slowly going away for a lot of things. I tend to make my own breakfast breads and they're so much better than cake - because I know what's in them and I can enjoy a small slice guilt free. I'm already working on our zucchini bread / zucchini cake recipes for when the little buggers are plentiful.

Zelma - the kids look so sweet. I know, looks can be deceiving. They do look good in their uniforms.

Tricia - :wave:

Debi - Wow, your garden sounds like it's going really well. I love gardens too, although I do kind of like sitting in them the most. :)

Julia - Great NSV today. I'll have to consider trying that in the fall. We have a jacuzzi tub in the upstairs bathroom that was never very comfortable. I really prefer showers, but a soak every now and then might be okay. It never was very comfortable but who knows maybe it will be now.

Carol - I saw my first zucchini blossom today. Oh my, that means there will be zucchini some time in my future. I'm not that fond of it as a vegetable. I've got some grape and cherry tomatoes but none showing colour yet. I've been reading a bit about NEAT lately, the concept that just moving around more can be more beneficial in the end. The idea is that if your scheduled exercise makes you too tired to do anything else then it's not a good thing. Walking around, working in the garden, these are all good things. Hey, NEAT is the only way to explain my 120-lb mother's ability to eat 1800-2000 cals a day... plus candy and chocolate, and not gain weight. Don't get me wrong, I'm still doing cardio and weights, but I have cut back on them a bit and tried to do more 'non-exercise' activities. So far my weight loss hasn't been affected.

Penny - you're likely off already, but enjoy your camping trip. The picture of your hubby is great.

Debbie - hey, I went looking at Penny's pictures and saw yours. They look wonderful, although you're like me, the clothes are still a little loose.

Dusty - that's something I haven't done in decades - buy clothing in a store. Although I admit I'm not much of a shopper in general. I kind of like mail order stuff. The campus pictures look lovely.

Well I think that's me for the night. I have to go do my meal plan for the night, update my blog, and hit the sack. Goodnight all.

Ok so I was MIA today LOL

I got a running start on errands at 8:00am!!! LOL then came home and took everything out of the living room & shampooed the carpets.......rearranged the pictures & nicknaks in there........put everything back......the DD did the dining room carpets.......the puppy piddles are tiny itty bitty but they still needed to go!!! LOL especially with all the kids being here this weekend!!! Want to do the hallway upstairs & the 3 bedrooms tomorrow....but I will do a quick shampoo.....no moving furniture in those rooms! I still have several loads of laundry to complete!!! I also need to get the clothes put away in my bedroom!!! grrr have I said I HATE laundry???? LOL

I got my glasses picked up today finally after being told they would be done last night and they werent then going there this morning and they still weren't done.........ran some errands and came back and they were finally done! Got my nails filled finally they were about to outgrow my entire nail bed LOL I did red nail polish with blue & white swirly thingys LOL I will include them when I snap a picture of my glasses LOL not sure if I will do makeup & hair tomorrow since its yet another work day around here....LOL but I do have to run my poodle to get his hair done so maybe I will try to look presentable!!! LOL
I would love to get my hair cut & highlighted before the kids get here.....not sure if one I will have time or two that Dh will be willing to put out the dough for that this week....LOL

Eating went well today........on the run with errands DD & I stopped in at Subway......she loves their subs.......I got a vegie 6 in and yogurt ..........then tonight on the run taking DD to her band practise & then a quick trip to the store while she was there.......DH & I stopped in at the Chinese buffet.......he was a little miffed at their selection because it was still early for dinner rush and too late for lunch.......so they didn't have alot of fresh stuff out.......I ate steamed zucchini w/carrots steamed salmon chilled shrimp only poor calorie choice was the banana pudding but ohhh it was so good........I also think it was SF though cuz of the aftertaste you get with artificial sweeteners....

Need to still increase my water intake but I'm trying! I wish I hadn't left my nice jug at work ........can't get in the building till next week .........so I am just using my Brita pitcher and trying to have it full all the time so I will not have an excuse (yucky water) LOL

No exercise except the vacuuming and moving recliners & end tables ohh and the shampooing! LOL But believe me since summer started that is MAJOR exercise for me right now LOL

love all my SIL!!!
ttyl
Bernice

Zelma THANK YOU so MUCH for your kindness, :hug:I can see why your pupils (and their parents) love you so much! It brought it tears to my eyes.xxxxxxx
Thank you too Ratkitty :hug:xxxxxxx & anyone else who made kind comments. It means so much that when things are bad I (or anyone else) can come here & get support for things which aren't just diet related.
I appear to have lost some weight, though I think it's down to stress rather than exercise. ;)At least being broke there's no spare money for wine, take-aways and chocolate, ;)I have to look on the positive side, lol.
An old workmate manages a small wine & booze shop & I asked her if there was any work going (she'd offered me a job ages ago but Aiden wasn't at school then) & it looks like there is a job going. I'm sad that the teaching assistant job I applied for never replied, sheesh, I'm wondering if the fact that having an Honours degree was worth all the work AND money!:dizzy: I could be a teaching assistant with a six-month course & do shop work with no need for further & higher education. Anyway at least there's something on the job front.
Debbie you can REALLY SEE THE DIFFERENCE, :carrot:well done!:carrot:xxxxxx
Annie :carrot:WTG,:carrot: you are looking so good!!! I had to laugh about the arms at your side, I do that too!xxxxxxx
Anne, great to see you back, have you been in your pool much?xxxxx
Battle, great to see you too.xxxxxxx
My oldest son is looking to join the army, the discipline will do him good, though I've a feeling he'll be spending most of his time on 'punishment duty' rather than active combat!;) His injuries are looking better, he still has stitches on his eyebrow & scabs & grazes on his face but he looks better. His gf still has a lot of bruising to her eyes but at least she isn't swollen anymore; I saw pics of her after the accident, it was awful, apart from her long hair you would never guess it was her!
Anyway I have to go, poor Aiden was five on Sunday & spent Saturday throwing up & crying, his birthday he wasn't up to birthday cake & hardly ate anything, even today (Wednesday) he still isn't eating a lot, we go to the Dr's tomorrow. He is playing & eating a bit more but I've kept him off school as he still wants a nap in the afternoon which is not normal for him.
Sandy, thanks for the pm :hug:& FAB to see you back!xxxxxx
xxxxxsharon

good morning,
sharon_sorry your little one isnt feeling well! Hope its just a virus or something minor!! Let us know how he is doing.

dmpls_ i count shampooing carpets as exercise!!

anne- I dont care for mulberries.maybe its because we had a huge tree when we first moved here and it ruined my carpet. I had new capet and when the kids forgot to take off their shoes when just running inside for something they got mulberries on my capet...We cut it down after 2 yrs.

carol_ how was the blt?? I perfer it with reg bacon but for the calories precooked bacon cant be beat.

angel_ great job on all the walking...when all else fails exercise!!

I have both boys again today and then will be off the rest of the week. I really need to plan out my meals for the next few days.I need to grocery shop tommorow and get things for the weekend. No real plans as of right now for the 4th.
gotta go and fold some laundry and try to get it put away when hubby gets up and moving. I think i drank a little more coffee this morning than usual and i feel kinda jittery.LOL
have a great day!!
debi

G'morning all,

Julia, that is a great NSV! Either my hips haven't caught up with my weight loss or I have a narrow tub, but I am still a water dam hehe.

GGG, w00h00 on your pound release (and double week release)! Too funny about your DGS and the tomatoes. I bet he was so cute too. I know, my parents are coming to see me and not my house, but I tolerate way more dust than my Mom does.. hehe. The cleaning lady comes today for some extra help and I get off at noon today.

Penny, you've probably already left for your vacation, but so amazing about your DH and the pants! Just wait until you both can step into his britches. Have a great time on vacation :)

Dusty, sweet deal on the new Lane Bryant sizing and help. My sisters have always been normal or near normal sizes, but have struggled with weight issues as we've all gotten older. They've always been really supportive of me. I used to think my parents were riding me all the time, but then I had an a-ha moment and saw they were trying their best to support me and my anger at them was really anger at me. Your campus flower pict was fabbo!! I love it. Thanks for sharing those :)

Debbie, how was your doc appoint? Did your DH get in as well? I hope he's feeling better. I did 30 more minutes on the Wii Fit today. Apparently, my yoga balance is great! I finally got the hulahoops game going good too. hehe. I think my fav balance game is the skiing around the flags. Your picts are wonderful!!!! I have my right leg shorter than my left which makes for an odd seat position on my bicycle. It also can pull on my back and cause problems if I don't stretch.

Catherine, I hope your internet is back on. I run into doorways and trip all the time, but it's cuz I'm a clutz. When I was my highest weight, I guess I didn't move as much as I do now. I thought I was!! There's more opportunity to demonstrate my piruettes(sp) and grace now.. hehe.

Realist, I have a cattle prod and know how to use it! hehe. Perhaps a hug would be more in order as you figure out what's triggering you to eat horribly. Remember, you are worth every bit of effort it takes to be healthy!!! You are articulate and beautiful and I'll use the cattle prod to make you remember that!!! This last 18 months, I've lost 30 lbs. If I that for the next 3 years, I might make goal! hehe. You've done great and don't belittle your progress (*points to cattle prod if you do*).

Debi, w00h00 for favorite gown falling down! Tease that DH.. they all need teasing periodically. Your eggbeaters on wheat toast sounded yummy! Maybe I can make some this weekend for Mom and Dad when they visit. They'll be here tomorrow.. EEEEP! Best to get some food in the frig. I'm the condiment queen right now. I have a couple mulberry trees that overhang in my yard from my neighbors'. They smack me in the head as I mow and I cut them back every year. I think they are out to get me! hehe.

Angels, it's good to know I'm not the only one that loves camping, but swells up cuz of the heat. Yah00000 on the double walks!! Happy Canada Day to you. I hope you aren't sore today.

Anne, I hear ya on the squirrels and birds with the cherries!! They were brutal. The dogs caught one. At least they know the lower branches are guarded by big yellow beasts. I have netting and will try to set up something for next year. Hey! No fair tempting Annie with pools and AC to get her to clean for you!! hehe. All I have are the DC museums to walk around after cleaning.

DMPLS, geeesh, shampooing and cleaning is enough cardio!! I know some people don't count that, but you made me tired reading about your day.

Sharon, good luck on the job at your friend's store. Any port in a storm. I once worked as a reservationist for American Airlines and I have a PhD in microbiology. It paid the bills. Lost weight still counts even though it's from stress!! Don't forget your additional walking is helping too. Glad your DS and GF are healing.

Hugs to all! If I'm MIA for this weekend, know I'm entertaining my 75 yr old mother who runs circles around me. If I had half her energy, I'd never have a dirty house.. hehe.

Luv,
Ratkitten

The internet miraculously came back on last night. They were doing a software upgrade apparently. It seems to be faster, but that may just be my imagination.

My legs are back to where they normally are, not exactly twiggy, but not tree trunks either. I'm starting to feel a bit more settled. I go between trying to do everything at once, to doing nothing because it's too big, or I get overwhelmed. I'm at a point now where I can do things in small bits, and be content. That's a big step for a perfectionist. My psychiatrist comes back to town next week, so I will have lots to talk about. He's going to need his own shrink when he's done with me.

Debie: I have to say WOW! What a difference on your pictures. You look soooo much smaller. I'm so proud of you.How did your Dr. appointment go? I hope you were able to get Jim into see the Dr.

Catherine: So glad that your legs are better now.

angie: I have no suggestions on the ring other than can you go on line and see if you can purchase it from the site itself? You are so sweet with all of the comments you said to me. Thanks.

Debi: I'm jealous. I only have flowers on my tomatoes.

Rat: Oh, have fun with the Wii fit. I want one for my wii.

Julia: Great NSV. I remember when I could do that for the first time and it is such an amazing feeling.

Carol: Woo hoo on loosing 1 more. You are really doing so well. Excellent job on the 84 minutes to start the month of July with.

Penny: Have a great vacation.

Dusty: Sounds like you had a great time shopping. What a nice feeling to be the witness to someone being so happy they cry because of a size they can fit into now.

Angels: Great job going for a walk when you are board instead of eating.

Anne: Your day sounds lovely. I would come clean your house just to swim alone. lol. I am such a water person.

Bernice: Sounds like you have been busy and are about to get even more busy with all the kids. Have fun hun.

Sharon: Hugs sweetie. Hang in there.

Well, My sister in law is here visiting and it is so nice to be able to spend time with her. She is so sweet. I am off to ride my bike the 5K and hopefully do it the rest of this week daily.

Blessings all,
Annie

Hiya ladies,
Just wanted to pop in and thank you all for making such nice comments on my pics. I always seem to have a hard time getting past a mini goal so I'm hoping that I can hop over it and keep going. I couldn't have done it without you ladies here, so thank you!

Angie, it's true, you can do this!!! So come on girl! I've got my hand out there for you to hold on to!

Catherine, that is so true. I've backed up into the dishwasher door which was down, and I went down, I've leaned over in a chair and fell out of it which I'm sure was really embarrassing to my son since it was his future in-laws where I did it. I just laugh it off and tell them you never know what I'll do next. I hope I find my center soon though, it gets a bit ridiculous.
Glad to hear your legs are back to normal.

Debi, I bet your hubby really likes that gown!

Angels, good for you on getting out there and walking instead of giving in to the boredom!

Anne, OMGosh! Here I thought those clothes looked tight on me. I guess more for the big clothes bag!

Sharon, I hope you get the job. I'm sure it will be a big relief to have that extra money coming in. :hug: to you and your little boy. I hope he feels better soon and can celebrate his birthday with all the fixings.

Ratkity, when I called the doc, they told me I could exchange my appt for my hubby to go in. So now I don't go til the 15th. Jim has super bad allergies (which we didn't even know). He's never ever been this bad but they gave him Claritin and then a scrip for Flonase. I guess because the weather was so wet and awful this year, everyone is getting terrible allergies even when they didn't have them before.

Have a great day ladies!
Debbie

Annie, must of been posting at the same time.
Thanks for the nice comments.
Have fun with your sil!!

Holy cow it's hot. I moved some mulch this morning. Still have a little over a half of a truck full, and I was hoping to surprise DH when he got home that we are finally done, but I just don't see that happening. Instead I think I will hit the showers, see if I can get a new watch battery for him, and then come home and clean. Yesterday I allowed myself to wallow. I found out I need to be a person with purpose. I can't just hang out (unless DH is with me). So yesterday I ate way too much, napped (and thus didn't get to sleep last night until after 2am), and accomplished nothing. I woke up with some resolve today, and need to get things accomplished. As a note, my company gives us all this week off. :)

Take care and be well,
Angie

Angels—great job avoiding snacking with exercise! Sometimes when I can’t stop being hungry, I just brush my teeth so I won’t want to eat! But your tactic sounds much better!

Anne—mulberry-apple-grapefruit jam? That sounds fantastic! I can’t imagine making my own jam, I wouldn’t know where to begin! I’ve never bought clothes online. I don’t think I could ever get the sizes right. But I do hate shopping in the stores. I don’t think I’ve ever shopped for a bra without crying in the dressing room.

Bernice—Moving furniture and cleaning carpets IS a bigger workout than I ever do! Especially in the summer. Reading your post made me groan because I know I have to help my mom do that soon….I do NOT look forward to carpet cleaning week. I think I will have to find a place to hide.

Sharon—I must have missed your earlier post because when I read today’s I had no clue what had happened. Well I went back to read it and I was shocked! I hope everyone is doing better soon, how awful for your entire family to have to go through that! Thank goodness they are getting better now. I hope Aiden feels better soon, too! Good luck with the new job!

Ratkitten—good luck with your mom visiting!

Angie—wow you get the WHOLE week off, that is so lucky! Enjoy your time!

I am watching hairspray right now (the newer musical version, not the much exhalted John Waters version which I also love) and feeling pretty good. I kind of overdid it today with my sauna suit. I was doing my belly dancing cardio and I thought I was gonna pass out if I didn’t stop so I DID. I haven’t used the suit since winter and this heat was killer! I felt really nauseas. But when I was done showering, I felt GREAT! So I guess it was all good.

I put up some pictures today on the pic page for those who are interested.
Dusty

Dusty, you look great in your pictures. But please don't overdo the sauna suit.

Good evening all,

Just another beautiful summer day here in Ontario. Almost too hot but I'm definitely not complaining. Nothing much going on here though, just the same old stuff. Tomorrow I'm driving my mother to the local passport office and hoping it's not an all day affair. Or I'll let her drive and sleep. It's just nicer to go with someone in case you have to wait. She reminded me that she went with me last time. :)

Bernice - wow, it sounds like you're very busy. It sounds like you have it all under control. I'm assuming these preparations are for the holiday weekend?

Sharon - we pretty much have a swim every day. Even with all the rain we've had it's not usually all day rain so we find time to get into the pool. It sounds like you have your hands full as well with a sick boy. I do hope it's nothing serious. Good luck on the job front. Sometimes people think you won't be interested in a job and you really are. I know a while back I had someone tell me that I was overqualified and they knew I wouldn't stay. The position was filled and reposted three months later. I know I would have stayed longer than that. By the time they called me specifically I was working somewhere else.

Debi - I never really have to wonder about when the mulberries are ready. Usually you start seeing purple bird poop around the place. I wouldn't be crushed if the tree died. Although the jam concoction turned out nice so I've been asked if I plan to make more. Oh oh.

Ratkitten - it's funny but my mother is a great house cleaner (although if you ask her she'll say she hates it). None of it rubbed off on me. She has more staying power when it comes to cleaning than I do, but I can usually out walk her.

Annie - my mother actually did the cleaning today (too hot out for her) while I worked outside in the garden. You're welcome to come for a swim any time you're in the neighbourhood. :) Enjoy your visit with your SIL.

Debbie - you're probably like me. You've spent so much time wearing oversized clothing that anything close fitting feels tight. I look at my mother and she wears closer fitting clothing that I do. Somewhere along the way I'll have to work on that myself. Although feel in the end is the best determining factor. I had a shirt on the other day that my mother says fits well, but to me it's still a little tight in the shoulders.

Dusty - Jam making isn't hard, just never a perfect craft. I'm lucky since over the years between my mother and myself we've amazed a number of good pots, canning equipment, etc. I've done pretty well with online shopping although as I just said to Debbie I probably wear things too loose. I stopped wearing conventional bras a long time ago (hated them).

www.decentexposures.com <--- the UnBra - I suspect no matter what size I end up at I will continue to wear them.

Oh, and I'm with Realist, do watch the sauna suit. You can dehydrate yourself very fast using something like that.

- - -

Well, I think that's me for the evening. I should go and try and plan my food for tomorrow, especially with being away for a part of the day. Hope everyone is having a good week so far.

Angels, I was so bored tonight that I wanted to eat and thought of you going out for your walks to get over the urge. So I went out and mowed lawns for an hour and feel so much better for it. Thanks for the reminding me what to do when boredom attacks!

Dusty, nice pics!! Yep, the sauna suit looks really big on you!

I made a chicken and bean soup today. Turned out pretty good for just throwing things in a pot without a recipe. There was enough to freeze too so it will come in handy when I don't feel like cookin. I didn't think I would like soup on a warm day, but it wasn't too bad. Jim even liked it but he'll pretty much eat anything. :lol:

Tomorrow is another yardwork day. I have piles of weeds to pick up and take to the burn pile and still some weedeating to do. I'm hoping Jim will get on the tractor and get the backyard leveled better so we can be done with it.

That's it for me. Have a good night
Debbie

good Morning everyone,

I had set my goal to be at 250 by the 4th and it looks like im close but not there yet. Which is fine with me..being close is good enough! I sat down and wrote out my goals for the next year and [B]IF[B] i am able to get close then I should be near goal weight near labor day 09. I dont really care if it takes me longer than that.Just so i keep losing and improving my health. I would love to be under 200 pounds by easter next year. My goal for labor day is 235. thats 18lbs from where I am today.
Looking back at my food journal my food intake is really good overall..so is my water intake for the most part. I have slacked on exercise..so im getting my mini-trampoline back out of the basement and start back using it.I can use it when i cant get outside due to weather or heat. I also know I have to get my exercise early in the day because by evening im to tired. Hope everyone has a wonderful day!!
debi:trampo:

G'morning all!

Today is the day my parents arrive. Almost ready for them. Just a few minor things to finish.

Catherine, good deal about the feet and legs being normal and your internet being back on. I know when my net goes out I feel irritated, but when I'm already stressed, it can send me over the edge. I always wondered what kind of shrinks that a shrink sees. I wonder if they have to have specialty training for folks as nutty as us.

Annie, I'm a water baby as well. I love the floating and freedom in the water. Have a great time with your SIL! I'm ready for my 5K too :)

Debbie, I'm still amazed at your pictures. What a difference!! I'm glad hubby got into the doc for his allergies and hope he is on the mend. You never want a sick DH hanging around. They get grumpy (so I've heard). Glad your soup came out good! I have to eat soup at work to stay warm. They keep that building like a meat locker.

Angie, I do better with a purpose too. I am also not a spontaneous person and like to plan things. Yay for having the week off (hopefully with pay). I hate to say this, but I love naps. I think I was a cat in another life.

Dusty, your sauna suit is hysterically large on you! hehe. You know your body best, but know that all of us care for you and don't want you sick cuz of overuse. I'm still proud of you for your extra belly dancing! I'm doing the Wii Fit Hula Hoops aerobic exercise and have mastered it! It's a lot of fun.

Anne, my mom has bad feet, but I'll never outwalk her when she's shopping. She's like a woman on a mission. She's like the energizer bunny. I checked out the unbra. My girls are heavy, but underwires never fit right. Do you find great support with this? They look comfy. Do you use the scooped or racer back?

Hiya debi! Great goals :) I don't set weight loss goals anymore. Too much trama from the past. My goal is to eat healthy and exercise. I want the weight loss, don't get me wrong! I still overly focus on the ups and downs. Baby steps!! Have a great day :)

Luv to all,
Ratkity

Good morning all,

Just saying hello before we head out to the passport office. Usually we would go to a slightly closer one but you have to be there before it opens, take a number, and come back hours later. We went to one slightly further away last time but the process seemed to be faster, so we'll try it again.

Debbie - It's too late to say this now, but I always write what I'm putting in on a small piece of paper. Partly so I can work the calories out later, but mainly so if I like it I can make it again. I did that with the jam this year. I have a bad tendency to make 'all the fruit in the freezer jam' and then I find one that's really good and don't have a clue what's in it!

Debi - I've never done well with time/date goals. If I make them that's great, but if I'm off by a couple of pounds I feel like I've failed. You sound like you deal with them better though, so congrats on that.

Ratkitten - I find the bras very comfortable, although I never wore underwire (just couldn't). I've worn these for a long time. I'd say at least 7 or 8 years and I can't imagine wearing a real bra again. As long as the band fits you well they are the most comfortable thing. At the moment I need to likely order some new ones as the band is a little loose. What I might end up doing though is ordering ones a little small and alter one or two down myself to halfway in between. Overall they aren't cheap (although since I haven't bought a bra for a while I can't be sure) but they do last well. I bought both underwear and bras before I left on my trip almost two years ago and they're all still in really good condition. They tolerated the weight gain (I was lighter when I ordered them) and are only now really starting to be too big. I bought cheaper undies from another place I get good clothing from but they're starting to fall apart and I've only been wearing them for a year or so. I buy the medium support Lycra ones. I'm buying a D cup (for reference) and the scoop back (mainly because I don't often wear tight collar shirts). If I get more into jogging I might go to the lined lycra or lined dry-release for a little more support. Once you've worn them they will even do alterations on them if you need it (I think free within 60 days, but not positive). I've never needed them, or I've done it myself when I lose weight.

Well, I better go get ready to go out. Hope everyone has a great day.

Just stopping in before we run the grocery for this weekend!
Had to let my friends know how much a clutz I am LOL

After cleaning out my bedroom(laundry thrown everywhere LOL) I vacuumed & shampooed the carpet in there and the hallway...

picked up my poodle from the groomers and then made dinner after we ate we went to church........no church service because we were having a cleaning day.....they needed help ripping up carpet so Monday the carpet layers can come in and replace the old stuff.........well I was sweeping out one of the sunday school rooms and I walked right into a wire shelf (one that was on the wall) WOW did that smart! I immediately put my hand on it cuz it hurt.......the other lady that was helping me sweep checked it to see if I was bleeding and her comment was "lets go to the bathroom" we walked about 6 steps across the hall to clean it up........ummm one look in the mirror told me all I needed to know.......I looked like I was a victim from a horror flick LOL blood was all over my face & running down my neck!!! We cleaned up that and then she took the towel I had over the wound and looked at it apparently it wasn't finished bleeding! Another lady came in to check on me and immediately ran to get the pastor & DH LOL I felt kinda woozy so they took me out to the hallway & brought me a chair.........Dh took one look at the wound and said ok we are out of here!

Went to the Army ER and sat! for over 2 hours before I was even triaged!!! after another 30mins DH called a local Emergent care center and they said they were open for another 30mins and that there was no one there! So we left the ER and went there........we were in and out within 30mins! 7 stitches and some hairs cut later I was back home! Thank goodness it was right on my hairline over my left eye........right where my bangs fall naturally!!!

DH had a blast teasing me, because the nurse wrapped my head with guaze and he said all I needed was a flute and I was ready for the 4th!!! LOL

My oldest son called and said "Mom just because your looking like a HOT blonde, doesn't mean you have to act like one!" LOL

other than a MAJOR headache this morning I am doing ok! Just wish I could shampoo my hair!!! LOL

Bernice - take care of that wound. I bet you do have a headache today - hurts my head thinking about it.

Debbie - great job on getting the mowing started when you were bored. Thats the hardest thing for me - do something rather than give in to the "boredom cravings" - there certainly is always plenty to be done. I am amazed you can't see a difference in your pics - they really show how well you are doing. I wish I would have taken more progress pics but I'm still pretty camera shy - not even sure I have a before pic.

Debi - I can't do goals that are time sensitive either - seems to set me up for failure. So my goal is drink water, exercise and eat good every day. You are doing fantastic.

Rat - so I'm Wii ignorant - tell me about the hula hoop thing. Enjoy your parents visit.

Catherine - glad to hear the legs are returning to normal - I'm sure you feel better too! Internet service has become a necessity in our lives now - like air conditioning (in the midwest) and microwaves - interesting evolution.

Annie - you can come play in my pool anytime - and you'll just have to not worry about my housekeeping. We'd have so much fun you wouldn't notice.

Angie - boy do I hear you on needing a purpose each day. If I don't plan my day I can still me in my jammies on the net at 5 in the afternoon. Flylady has really helped me get my day started in the right direction.

Dusty - love the pics although I've got to add be careful with the oversized sauna suit. Thanks for posting them.

Well after 6 hours hard yardwork yesterday I am a bit sore today. We had over 5 inches of rain last night and 80 mph winds so today I will need to rework some of yesterdays work. Today is house and grocery day in anticipation of the next two days events here. the 4th is adults only and the 5th is fun for all ages. Between the two days we are expecting about 80-90 friends and family. Hopefully the rain has all moved on as there is no way I can handle that many people in the house.

Time to get to it!

Move your bodies, drink your water and SMILE.

Hugs to all,
Carol

Oh Yeah - can't forget the 5ks I plan to do each day too starting today.

I'm resting this morning. This evening is the first real game of the season, and the season opener is against Calgary. That's like the Yankees/Redsox, except they get to hit each other on every play. Shouldn't have to make any hot chocolate tonight. It could get rowdy though. I do so love rowdy. It reminds me of OU/Texas weekends.

Thanks everyone for the caring cautions. The Sauna suit is dangerous, I know. I need to make sure to drink more water in it, and I also know that it really doesn’t speed in weight loss, it is used for athletes who need to shed water weight FAST for weigh ins and such.

I just like the way it strengthens the immune system and makes me feel so good and my skin so soft!

I’ll be careful! My skinny binny sister has one too so we work out together and look like dorks.

My mom sometimes cleans the house in hers. We are some crazy kind of sauna suit family.

Today is hot, Once again it is noon and I have not eaten a single thing. I really need to start eating more regularly. I don’t know how to break the habit of only eating dinner every day. I wish I could feel more hungry in the morning, but I always get nauseas at the thought of eating.

Does anyone have any advice on getting over that? I really just feel disgusting!

Also, I had lumps in my breasts at my last OBGYN check-up and I haven’t been allowed to drink or eat caffeine for 8 weeks now. I am going back on the 10th to see if they are gone. It really bothers me that I have them, and that there is a chance they aren’t caffeine lumps….which I didn’t know existed. I haven’t been able to take my slim quick because of this, and I really miss the energy they gave me. I hope the no-caffeine rule isn’t forever. I’ve already gone through withdrawal, but am having strange cravings for chocolate (which I don’t ever like!) and Coca-cola.

Hope everyone is gearing up and prepared for the 4th.
Dusty

Debi, sounds like you have your goals worked out for you and have a plan on how to reach them. I wish you all the best on your goals. I was hoping to get to mine by 12/31 of this year but don't think I will do it. It's just bumps in the road that prevent it but I hope to get close . That's all we can do.

Annie, did you get the storms last night?

Ratkity, Jim thinks it's a mixture of a cold and allergies. Who know? But he's doing a little better. His voice is back, and yeah, you're right....they do get mighty cranky. Just ask the solar light outside that got broke the other day. I think I would love where you work. I would so much rather be cold than hot. I'll send some warm soup thoughts your way!

Anne, have fun at the passport office. Those places can drive ya mad!!

Bernice, WOW! You must of really walloped yourself. Take it easy and I hope it doesn't hurt too much. Now are you going to walk in the 4th parade with the flute or the drum?

Carol, I see a difference in the side shot but not so much on the front view. I guess cuz I see me everyday and you ladies only see me at every 25lbs lost. I hope you do find some pics of yourself from before you started. It's amazing to look back at. And do take some on the way down too, you'll be so happy you did. You don't have to show them to anyone, and you don't even have to have someone develop them. Just go to walmart or where ever and do them yourself on one of the machines. That way, no one but you will know. You'll be so proud of yourself, Carol.....really!!!
You're gonna have a houseful!!! I don't even know if I know that many people. :lol: Have fun though and enjoy the time with everyone. Sounds like it's going to be a lot of fun.

Catherine, have fun at the game and throw a burnt hot dog at someone for me!!

Dusty, hopefully they are the caffience lumps or maybe just fatty tissue. I had some of those and they aren't anything to worry about, so they tell me. Just take care and try to have a good holiday and have fun!

I hope everyone has a safe and fun 4th! We're going to the parade, the craft booths, and the logging stuff going on here in town. They also have a 5k which I would love to do next year. Our little town is known for the "Loggerodeo" which is really big around these parts. People plan their vacations to come to it. The weather is pretty bad right now so I don't know how much we'll get to do. Thunder and lightening with rain today. We even had the emergency broadcast thingy go across the tv. First time I ever saw that.
We're out to do our shopping and pay bills. I wish I could of gotten all the lawns done but now with the rain, will have to wait a day or two.
That's it for me,
toodles
Debbie

I’m back!!!! I see a lot of old friends and some new faces. I have been reading a bit to catch up, but I know it will take me awhile. Forgive me!

I am afraid that I have not been doing so well since I was last here. I ended up plummeting back into some old bad habits, mostly because I let myself become obsessed with playing World of Warcraft. It brought back old days of doing nothing but sitting in front of the computer screen and eating too much. As of today I am getting myself back on track. I am on a two week ban from playing and it remains to be seen if I can add it back into my life in a healthy way.

I don’t know exactly how much damage I have done, but my guess right now is about 30 pounds :o. I will wait until next Thursday to weigh myself. But no matter what, the important thing is getting back to it. I honestly didn’t think that this would happen to me. I thought I was to a point where I could maintain at least. I guess I have a lot more learning to do.

Things are going well with my new BF and actually he just started WW yesterday, so we will be working on this together. I am sticking with calorie counting, but it is still the same principal so we will be able to work together and support each other. If he has any specific WW questions I may be asking the experts here for your help.

I have really missed you all and special thanks to those of you who reached out to me while I was gone asking where I had gotten to. I promise to not be such a stranger!!

Now off to keeping reading to catch up…

Angie: Have a great week off work. I hope you don't get depressed while you are home alone. The week is almost over already though. Hugs.

Dusty: Wow, belly Dancing! I can't do that. I tried a video and I ended up being so self conscience that I gave it to my "thin" sister. Good for you doing it. Do you like it?

Anne and Carol : I wish I could come spend the day swimming and chatting with you guys. I can't think of anything I'd like to do more.

Debbie: Yup. We got the thunder storm. It poured rain too. I think another one is expected tonight and into tomorrow a.m.

Debi: I think your goals are fab. I'm sure you will get pretty close if not reach them the way you are going.

Rat: Yipee for the 5K. I need to do mine for today. I managed to do one yesterday and then walked for over 6 hours So, I am going to hop on my bike and do another one in a bit and go for a walk in the beautiful park with my sister in law later. Have fun with your parents!

Bernice: ouchie and big ole hugs.

Carol: Have fun with all your parties and activities.

Catherine: I hope you don't have to do the "frozen Hot dog throw" tonight.

Nancy: Huge hugs and Even bigger welcome back. I've missed you tons. Congrats on the new BF. So glad things are going okay for you and you are right weighing is just a starting point. Hugs, hugs, hugs.

Well, Yesterday we went to the water park and the amusement park. I went on the roller coaster. Whew It was fast. I was very scared to go on it but I bucked up and did it. I FIT! I was shocked because they are kind of small rides but no problem. My favorite part of the day is the water slides. I stink at coming out of the tube. I always splash face first into them.

Well, everyone have a wonderful Holiday weekend.
Blessings,
Annie

Nice to see you Nancy! Sorry about the weight gain, but glad to see you here. And it's good to hear about you and your BF doing the weight loss together.

thanks everyone......yes DH says I must be the flutest LOL (sp?) today I opted for a large bandaid even though it looks silly.....its better than gauze wrapped around my head!!

I will probably be scarse this weekend........DS#1 & his fiance will be coming in late late tonight & staying till Sat am early......DS#2(Army son) was suppose to be in around that same time frame.......cept he called me earlier today and he got a 9am flight!!!! so DS & his girlfriend should be here around 6:30-7ish.....they will be here till Sat early afternoon........they will go back to Bowling Green(1hr south of us) where they both went to school and go out with friends Sat night then he flies out Sunday.....DD is on her way home from her nanny job but wont be here for another 3hours she has to stop by a friends for her bday on the way into town.....My head is killing me today and I am making spaghetti for dinner as well as making desserts for tomorrow........I still have a tad bit of picking up to do.......after being at the ER so long last night I didn't do anything else yesterday and today we ran to the grocery.........grrrr still so much to do and DH & youngest DD our out galavanting!!!! LOL they ran to the bank before it closed and to get a couple of things we forgot......but I sure could use their help tiding up around here!!! I tried to lay down for an hour but they left and the puppy came in my room with her little bell and wouldn't stop jingling around LOL so I started dinner and an angel food cake for tomorrow.

I better get going

Hope everyone has a wonderful 4th of July!!!

Bernice

Nancy - YEAH - you have been missed - can't wait to catch up!

I'm off to do my 2nd 5k of July and then to dinner with friends.

Be safe,
Carol

Good afternoon all,

Well the passport office was surprisingly easy. We were in and out in just about 35 mins. It's well worth the drive (45 mins each way). The closer one is still about 25 mins away, you pay for parking, and you're lucky if you get out in a couple of hours. That's twice now we've been and no question I'll be going back there when I need to renew. That actually brings up an interesting point. My last passport was when I was losing weight the last time so the picture isn't too far off where I am now. I'm most surprised by the changes in my face and I wonder at what point I should think about replacing it. With going back to school it's unlikely I'll be traveling in the near future, but it will be something to think about. I suppose I'll cross that bridge when I come to it. My driver's license is from ~ 20 pounds heavier but it also doesn't need to be replaced until 2010. I suspect that's the one I'll have to worry about first. :)

Bernice - you sound like I can be at times, although in a more serious way. I'm constantly looking at bruises, cuts, scrapes, not quite remembering where they came from. Oh, some of them I can pin down, but I remember cutting myself at work one time and someone else pointed out the blood running down my arm. I do hope you're okay though. It sounds like you are.

Carol - that's a whole lot of people. Decades ago I used to come over and help my mother when she was manager at a real estate office. We would have parties with close to that number of people. They were a lot of work but really quite fun. Hope yours are as well.

Catherine - it didn't click until now that you've been talking about CFL football. It seems almost too early for it this year. Ah well, hope it's a good one.

Dusty - best of luck with the check up. Fluid filled cysts are quite common with younger women (I've had a couple of friends go through it) but it's always best to keep on top of it. I didn't know that caffeine was a potential cause though. This makes a lot of sense with the women I'm thinking of. Take care.

Debbie - reading all the posts about the 4th tells me that it's a much bigger deal in the US than the Canada Day holiday is here. Although there was some type of celebration here down at the lakeshore, complete with fireworks as well.

Nancy - I'm sorry that you're having troubles, and I hope you're wrong about the weight gain. I've been reading through some material by a fat loss troubleshooter and although some of the things I already knew, she brought up one point that I've never really considered. She deals with training and diet, and most people are quite willing to take training breaks. However, few people take diet breaks. When I started the strength training program it made sense to take a break from it. I've never considered holding the diet activities for a week. The idea is that every 12 weeks (if you have a lot to lose) that you eat at maintenance levels or even a little above for the week. It gives you a chance to reset and your body a chance to rest and hormone levels to reset. The theory is that you should avoid plateaus doing this. I don't think I could ever just eat without thinking for the week (too many demons with food), however, it makes sense. We embrace the new lifestlyes (as I have) but if you are continuing to lose your body is constantly running at a deficit. Maybe that's what sometimes makes it harder as you go along.

I know none of that helps you right at this moment, but perhaps down the road it's something to think about. I'm planning to do that one week in July. And then after that I will do it every 12 weeks. When I think about it, that means 4 weeks in the year I will likely not lose weight. I can live with that. I haven't picked the week yet (trying to work it around projects, but my wrist is a bit twingy so it might end up being next week).

Annie - I do sometimes think it's a shame we all live so far apart. I would be fun to just hang out every now and then. Ah well, I suppose we'll just have to live with a virtual chat. Sounds like you had fun with the roller coaster. I could never decide if I didn't like them because of the speeds and the drops, or because I was never convinced that the bars would hold me. I suspect I'll let that be one thing I never find out. :)

Well, that's me for the moment I think. I hope all of you in the US have a great Fourth of July weekend!

Debbie—I’m not too worried about these lumps. I had an ultrasound right away and they didn’t even SEE the lumps…but I know they are there. I am not concerned because my doctor really wasn’t concerned either. Thank you for the encouraging words—I hope your holiday is wonderful too!

Nancy—HEY!! I was wondering where you were! I have come and gone on this site before too, and I was thinking of you recently! I am glad you are back **hugs**

Annie—of COURSE you can belly dance! The movements are fluid and not jarring, they are fun and comfortable and not to mention a GREAT workout! At first, when my skinny binny sister brought the DVD home, I wanted to kill her with a salad fork! But I decided, this is a great exercise that doesn’t require me to get on and off the floor a hundred times or do pushups! So I thought, I could do it embarrassed by my self, or I could do it, and do it BETTER than my sister. So I did, and got way into it. I know I look stupid—but I FEEL sexy, and that is all that matters! Don’t do it in front of a mirror, just imagine you’re dancing for a sultan who thinks your just the hottest thing on two legs, and have fun. Also, I recommend one of the videos from Rania, or any of the ones from natural journey! They don’t make you feel inferior. I let myself feel super sexy once a day and it’s done wonders for my self esteem. I challenge you to try it again! <3

More later—I have to go play a video game with my brother! (I know—obligations obligations.)

Dusty

Nancy, hey girl, it's good to see you here again. Sorry that you fell of the wagon, but we're all reaching out to you, so hop back on. Ya gotta tell us about the BF!!! That WOW can be dangerous. So many people get really hooked on that game. The guys at my hubby's work tried to get him into it but I told him if he did, we might as well say goodbye now. :rofl: Glad you got yourself together and realized it wasn't helping you.

Annie, the water parks sound like so much fun. I'm still to self concious to wear a bathing suit though. I do miss the water so much!

Bernice, sounds like your on the mend. Hope the headache leaves so you can enjoy your 4th with the fam!

Anne, that's pretty interesting about taking the break from the diet. I'm afraid I would go totally off plan so don't even want to give it a try. This weekend though, I'm not going to be quite as strict on myself. We're having barbeque chicken, hamburgers, chips, baked beans, orzo salad, and sf jello with ff cool whip. I'm also going to make a green salad. Those who want to have all the bad foods can, but I've covered myself on eating good foods as well.
The 4th is really big here in Woolley. It's a logger town so plenty of wood involved projects go on. It's alot of fun and a full week of activities.

Dusty, I'm glad the lumps aren't something serious. Whew! What a relief.
Have you ever watched FitTV? I forget what channel it is on cable, but they have a show called "Shimmy" and it's all belly dancing exercise. Several times I've turned it on to maybe get up and do it but felt silly. Maybe I'll have to give it a try.

Carol, I figure I did my 5K while mowing the lawn for over an hour but I think I will do another one on Saturday to make sure. Probably a combo of WATP and the treadmill. If it's nice, maybe walk our road about 100 times. :lol:

Off I go to get some stuff done around here. We're having David and Amy, my Mom and Dad, Jim and I for the barbeque....if it's not pouring rain. It was coming down in buckets earlier!!
toodles
Debbie

Hi All,

Realcdn.... The Zuchinii recipes sound good!! Can't wait for them to get big!
I never heard of Mulberries before....Never seen them in N.B.
Dogpal... I am glad you had fun at the amusement park!!
Hope you all have agreat holiday! http://www.3fatchicks.net/img/bar070...5/199/322/.png
I walked tonight for 60 min.....And I am down 2 lbs.....Yipeeee