Carol Sue, your car sounds great!!:D We hadn't bought a car for almost 20 years when we got our Jetta and we were so happy to have the bluetooth and also a charger but they put the charger in the glove compartment, not very useful as if I do put my phone in there I forget to take it out. So we just ended up buying our own charger. We don't get many calls in the car but nice to have the bluetooth when we need it. We don't have the other things you mentioned though. Have to wait another 20 years I guess for those.;) I think the text capability is meant to be used when one pulls over or is stopped/parked but you know how people are. Before we had bluetooth I wouldn't take a call unless I was stopped and if I was still in traffic I'd just yell I'd call back. Only in a real emergency would I ever use my phone while driving. It usually isn't that long til you get to a place you can pull over or park anyway, but I am glad I now have bluetooth.

I think that medical provider was wrong....yes that is the protocol when one is having angina but if you are having symptoms like crushing/suffocating pain/shortness of breath, sweating etc. or anything that makes you feel you are in danger of your life, you should call 911. You absolutely did the right thing. Usually the patient knows their body if they will listen to it like you obviously did. A usual symptom however of heart attack is denial so I'm glad you didn't go there. Dh so far has just had slight pressure (at times) and mild ache either in his chest or his lt arm or underarm. These incidents have been few and far apart, most occurred before he had a nitro prescription. He should not ignore it, but taking nitro is appropriate. If he ever has to take a third, I would either take him in or call 911. Many years ago he had a friend who kept taking nitro all day long and by the end of the day he was dead and he was a much younger man. I don't think either of us will ever forget that.

I'm trying to exercise daily too...but haven't done much today. Maybe while I watch TV tonght. I've kept really busy all day though...I wanted to weekly clean the whole house but I finally stopped and have two rooms and the front hall to finish another day. Can't imagine how I did it before, however I did do some extra stuff...I decluttered the hall closet and transferred a few items from the small bathroom to the main bathroom. I also decluttered an upper kitchen cabinet and transferred stuff from the hall closet into there and vice versa. I only got the kitchen floor swept and mopped after dinner. So no more cleaning tonight, I'm pooped!

Our son still has lots of things in the main bath (because he is still staying here at times) so I'm trying to only transfer what I really need to start using it as my bathroom. Besides all the housework I also did a load of laundry. Still need to fold it. After the decluttering I now have a box of stuff to give to ARC...they just came last week so it may wait a while unless we take it in to them. I also cleaned the large furnace vent in the hall...that's something I often forget and it really needed cleaning.

I've done pretty well on my eating today even though I did finish off the chips and dip. I was just careful about amounts and also had vegetables and cottage cheese for protein. Tonight I made an Asian noodle dish with a few easier to chew veggies and tender meat. Dh still cuts up the meat but he seemed to enjoy it. I usually put broccoli in it but knew dh would struggle with that. He gets his new tooth soon, and we will both be glad! :^:

Have a good night..

We had to go back to the dealership yesterday because one of the tire pressure sensors went bad already. On the way, there was this little icon on the instrument panel and it kept beeping. It looked like a phone, so DH told me my phone was causing that. I tried everything. It went off for a while but came back on and kept beeping. DH insisted it was my phone causing it. When we got there we asked the sales person and she looked at it and said that's not a phone. That's the indicator that tells you if you are going over the lines on the road. I still don't understand why it was on or beeping because DH wasn't going over the lines. She showed us where the button is to turn it off. She probably thinks we are nutty old people!! LOL

Mary When we are busy we are so much likely to reach for food. My worse time is in evening when I'm tired, sitting with DH at TV, and my hands seem to want to get food. Now that I'm playing games on his I phone, my hands are busy and I am far less likely to even want food. What a help!!!

Yesterday's walk in the Mall allowed my pedometer to regester it's highest in several weeks. I was not above 2K the rest of the past 6 days. Determined that I must be at or above 3.5K before bedtime. That means on snow days I'll have to choose the tredmill. I vow to make more effort.

New cars are a challenge as well as fun. CarolSue our car will be 3 years old in August and we just discovered the buttons on the console that let us unlock the car from inside!!! We thought we had to use the key button each time. Wonder what else we have that we haven't discovered yet. I'm like you, I don't like the blue tooth feature, but DH does. He has always traveled for work, but would pull over to take or make calls. Thank goodness.

Gayle I was thinking about the "fixing up our house" issue and realize at this time we are in good shape. I need carpets cleaned, but most major things were replaced in past few years. DD#2 uses washer so wash small lodes so often that I do worry about it not lasting very long. Her wardrobe is limited and she washes the dickens out of her clothes. At least the 2 hot water heaters are both fairly new, thank goodness.

Sandy

Good morning GG's,

It is a nice sunny day here today. It was a bit chilly earlier this morning, but has warmed up a bit now.

I haven't felt so good the last couple days, I think it is probably because I have strayed away from the healthy stuff I should be eating. So much for being good all month and having a treat meal at the end of the month. I sort of feel like when I do get a craving for something, it would be better to just go ahead and have it ~ have what I really want ~ try to be reasonable about it and not go overboard. Because when I try to substitute something else, the craving isn't satisfied and I keep stuffing stuff in and end up eating way more than if I had just gone ahead and ate the thing I wanted in the first place. Also, there is nothing here that is “good” when I am wanting something like that, so I am thinking I will just wait until I am out and about and get something that is good and satisfying and not some makeshift substitute.

And, so much for my thoughts/plans about walking. I am still struggling with that (I guess that and my struggles with the food explains why I am in the shape I am in). Oh well, I am not going to beat myself up about that ~ I'll deal with it one day at a time. At night, I think to myself ~ I am gonna get out there and walk first thing in the morning and get it over with. In the morning, I am dragging my feet ~ not wanting to do it. Sigh......

Sandy ~ way to go getting lots of steps registered on your pedometer. Regarding fixing up the house I mentioned, it wasn't the keeping up with the repairs type things, it was more decorating type things. There were window treatments in a couple rooms that I would have liked to change, and maybe some borders in some of the rooms ~ to kind of make it “us”. But like I said, we have lived here for a while now and survived without making those changes, and if we are eventually moving elsewhere, it seems kind of silly to spend the time and money on that now.

Carol Sue ~ interesting about the new car. They have all kinds of stuff on them now ~ some of them are helpful, some are confusing. We have the bluetooth thing and like that. I wondered about the texting thing you mentioned, and if it might work like the GPS that is in our vehicle. It will not let you operate it when the vehicle is in motion ~ you have to do it before you start out, or pull over and stop before it will let you enter information. I love that, because DH was guilty of trying to put info in while driving, would not listen to my requests that he not do that ~ just did as he pleased. He is going Grrrrr now, because Mr. Control is being controled by the vehicle. :D

Mary ~ I feel like, with all the cleaning and stuff you do, you are getting activity even if it isn't formal exercise. That's gotta count for something.

Karrine ~ way to go with the weight loss. You're doing great!!

Guess I'll get off ~ I have some papers to fill out for appointment with a new doctor on Thursday.

Hope you all are having a good day.

I'm really enjoying using the Cozi calendar/organizer. It would be esp great for families or couples where both like online calendars/communication. I keep my meal plans in it, a to-do list, and shopping lists, in it. I think I may even use it for my prayer list. Since it syncs with my phone, I'll have it whereever I go. I can message dh and family from it if I want too. Google did all this too but I like the layout better with Cozi.

I ended up consuming too many calories last night. I think it was emotional eating...I don't do that as often anymore but occasionally I do. My weight was up 1.5# this morning.

Glynne - You seemed to feel better on your diet, so I encourage you to get back on it. I want you to continue your success. I understand what you're saying about craving something "good" cause I'm the same way. I love variety in my eating (with a few exceptions;) and I can't stand feeling like I'm eating pretty much the same thing every day to lose weight. But when I think about it...feeling better, and being more comfortable in my clothes, finding clothes that fit...those are long term goals I really want and aren't they better than any food:?:

This is what I ask myself. And I don't understand why I can't seem to get a handle on my eating when I'm actually a very pretty disciplined person in most ways. I think I basically just don't want anyone/diet telling me what to do. I think for some of us, discipline in this area is just harder than for others.

I just recently found this proverb that really struck me with a picture in my head of what my being undisciplined is like...

"Like a city broken into and left without a wall, so is a person who lacks self-control." Proverbs 25:38 I pictured a city in the time this was written. That wall around the city was for protection, but if an enemy was able to break into it, tearing it down, there was NO protection, there was just chaos and violence the city. The enemy and all kinds of marauders/looters could come and go doing whatever they wanted. When I lack self-control, I open my body up to humiliation/shame, sickness etc...in other areas of my life I like having control yet with the precious body that God has given me, I allow chaos. Really made me think about what I'm doing.

No the cleaning is not enough, if it were I'd be skinny already.:^:

Sandy - GFY on the walking more! I'm lucky to get 15 min on my bike when we don't go to the gym. I was going to go today but then got busy and didn't...and dh is fishing so not here to inspire me. Thankful that he is in my life to keep me on track that way! At least I did ride my bike last night.

Carol Sue - It often takes a while to get the kinks out of new cars just like new houses. Our new car suddenly started vibrating on the drivers side...it is not consistent, doesn't seem to have anything to do with how rough or smooth the road is. We took it in twice during the warranty and they drove it and couldn't hear it, so they have no idea what is causing it. They said they looked in places that it sometimes happened but there was no vibrating going on at the time. It is irritating to me, mostly because it started soon after we got it, while still under warranty and a new car shouldn't be noisy!:mad When it's not vibrating it's a very quiet smooth driving car and I'm very thankful to have it. And when it's vibrating, I'm learning to live it, but don't like it.

Well need to get to work...doing less today but still busy. Want to transfer more to the main bathroom if I can figure out where to put it. Probably will have to move some of our son's stuff around too. Also hoping to arrange our storage containers yet again. Can't seem to get a handle on them. Also menu planning and other things I tend to put off if I can get to them.

Talk later..

It's me again. Busted ~ I should be "doing" something and not playing on here. Procrastination in action :o

Thank you Mary for the pep talk. I agree, that feeling better is more important than food. My thought is though ~ if I can do it without getting out of control, being able to have some of those things I like from time to time. And that that would be ok. To me, it isn't realistic to think I will never eat another __________ (fill in the blank) again. My strategies for doing this is to do my eating at gatherings where (because I don't want to look like a pig) I do pretty well at being in control and with the single serving size things when I do allow myself to have these things. A lot of times, just that single portion is enough to satisfy the craving. And by having the single serving size, I don't have a whole bag or what ever of anything in a cupboard here at home calling my name.

About the cleaning/exercising ~ I didn't mean you didn't need to exercise ~ I guess what I was thinking is that that activity is better than just sitting around all the time. It may not be enough, but it is better than nothing at all.

I have the Cozi thing too, but find that I actually use the calendar that is part of my Yahoo where I do my e-mail. Stuff I put in there shows up with a reminder in my e-mail.

Yes I understand what you mean. I try to do it that way too. As long as it's not in my house at least I eat better although I can overeat on anything, even healthy food, but still that's gotta be better.

It would be nice if housework were enough exercise, wouldn't it!:D

I've gotten somethings transferred over to the my bathroom. Now planning meals for the week and putting them into Cosi. Glynne, I think you can have it send you emails too, its in the settings. I bought the Gold version so maybe it's not in free:?: I thought it was though. I love that with Gold you get the shopping version of your shopping list and can check the items off as you buy. I've had that before with other apps, but this seems to work better for me, so far, although I do wish it was divided into categories...perhaps they will add that in later versions. Also, Glynne, I have the Flylady version...its a little different in that it auto loads the housework tasks, but not sure if it's different any other way. Having the tasks auto load was the main reason I went back to Cosi...I didn't have that before. I liked my Google calandar but couldn't get the tasks to come up right..with Flylady there is a different zone where you work each week and they wouldn't come up in the right week, at least I couldn't get it to no matter what I tried. Whatever works for you ...I LIVE by my calendar!

Well, the scale had gone up this morning ~ it has been creeping back up ~ I've gained back 5 pounds since my doctor's appointment in December. It kind of goes up and down a little, but not making any progress.

Carol Sue ~ you said: I have decided that I am going to start exercising every day, doing some weights even, and getting my legs, arms and core strengthened so I don't lose my mobility, even if I don't lose weight. Wonder how long it's going to take me to shuck that plan?

I hope for you that you are able to stick with your plan. I need to do what you said. I worry that slowly, little by little, if I don't get moving, I am not gonna be able to do much. Like they always said in nursing school ~ if you don't use it, you'll lose it. Why do I have such a hard time making myself get moving?

I did do a little better with the food today. One day at a time.

Hope you all rest well tonight.

Good morning everyone,
Today is Ash Wednesday so I'll be going to mass this morning. Food wise my diet has been going well so far this week (just Mon. and Tues). I'm still not getting any walking exercise in due to my ankle which is being very persistent in healing.

Sandy I hope your daughter finds a suitable place to rent out with good renters.

Carol I would never use all the new technology that they are putting in new cars. I don't even fully understand what blue tooth means. I was shocked to learn that cars now beep if you go over the road lines....wow.

Mary I just have one closet and one cupboard to declutter and then the house is finished with that job. I need to do the other household cleaning today sometime. Sorry you went up a little in weight - keep trying as I know you are very disciplined.

Gayle Hope you are feeling better. It truly is hard to diet when cravings start nagging at you - just do your best.

Have a good day everyone,
Karrine

WOW Karrine your house free of clutter sounds unreal. I really try hard to put things where they belong, but my coat closet is near computer desk. I find that I constantly put things down here no matter what part of the house I'm going to, plus, all the filing cabinets are here and shelves. Alll things will be here in their place - when I do it right.

Gail Your scale and mine must be in a plan to set us crazy. Mine kept going up till I almost thru it outside!

Lent begins today and after receiving ashes today, I'm resolved to using the next period of time till Easter in a far healthier way and probably will increase spiritual as well. Met up with some friends that were dumb like us and went out in the snow storm. After being gone most of the day we are finally safe at home and the snow stopped.

CarolSue Thought of you and your new car as we paid payment 29 of 36 on our car that we love. We don't keep get new cars often, and this one is driven so few miles I hope it lasts many years longer.

It's been a busy day so far...we had to get up early as dh had an eye appt and wanted me to be there. I'm glad I was sometimes he didn't hear what they said/asked. He thought his vision was worse, but the doc said it's the same as it was in Aug. His eye pressure was actually pretty good and even lower in the eye with worse vision. However, the surgery he had to open up a way to drain out the fluid did not work...the opening is almost totally blocked and the doctor said it is the drops he uses that is helping him now, so to us that surgery was in vain. Dh complains of eye fatigue and droopy right eye and also occasionally has double vision. The doctor scheduled a full exam to check the muscles and everything, then he may need new glasses. I think sometimes when he is grouchy it is because of how his eyes feel. He is also having trouble getting his hearing aides to help me enough. He says sometimes they are more of a hindrance than a help. I feel so sorry for him and pray that things don't get any worse for him.

After the appt we went out for breakfast and I got blueberry pancakes, but I didn't eat them all. I got milk to drink, wished they'd had nonfat but it was 2% and kinda upset my tummy. The pancakes were good though.

My dd who sells LulaRoe gave all us girls Valentine leggings and I gave them out. I gave my dil the one meant for me. The pair I kept were too tight and I didn't feel comfortable in them. Today we exchanged and these fit much better. Not sure how I will feel wearing them in public but they are not quite so tight and I like the color better. I now need a long tunic to wear over them so my butt doesn't show. :o I hope my dil likes the ones she got though cause I know she really liked the ones I gave her. I'm surprised they weren't baggy in the waist cause she is smaller than me there but she said they were only a little too long for her.

Then we went grocery shopping and I left my phone in the cart where you put a list or small purse etc. I called and at first they couldn't find it but then later called me back with the good news that someone had turned it in. I prayed many blessings on that good person! Even though I was careless, I really enjoyed using the new Cosi shopping app.

Tired now and still much to do here at home.

ETA I can't find the place where I can edit my weight thingy under my picture.

Good morning GG's,

Up early ~ still dark outside (when I started this). 51* outside right now ~ supposed to go up to 80* today.

Head started aching last evening ~ I had layed down ~ sciatic pain was hurting and sitting in the chair was too painful. But while laying down, my head got stuffy and started to ache. I took something, but guess it kept aching and I woke at about 4:30 and it was still aching. So, took something more and stayed up. It seems like it won't go away if I am laying down ~ think it is maybe sinus related and like the sinuses can't drain if I am laying down. Next step, headed to the hot shower to see if I can't steam it out.

I ate pretty good again yesterday. Did part of my PT exercises twice. I went out to mail some letters and it was so nice outside, I kept thinking I should go walk today. So after Maddie got home from school ~ while she was busy having her after school snack and doing her homework ~ I went for that walk. I decided that maybe I can get a routine going at that time of day for a walk. That will work, unitl it gets summer time with the blistering hot heat, then I will have to figure out something else.

I enjoyed my walk. I think I have mentioned before that I like to walk to this little nearby park that has a pond with a fountain. I went by way of the walking path instead of on the street. I was looking for the route that would equal 15 minutes to get there ~ turns out either way is the same amount of time. The walking path is safer because I don't have to walk on the edge of the street and worry about the cars going by. So, I can get in my 30 minute walk ~ and stopping at that park gives me a nice little break to rest up and also enjoy the peacefulness and beauty of the spot before I head back home.

Yesterday, a funny thing happened on that walk. When I got to the little park, there was a man already there sitting in that little arbor thing. So, I sat on one of the other benches that are around the edge of the pond. It was really sunny and there was a glare, so it was hard to see. I sat there for about 20 minutes, then got up to head back home. After I got up, I noticed that the man had gotten up before me and was headed out. I worried that he would think I was trying to leave at the same time as him and maybe strike up a conversation or something. I kept going, but I don't go very fast. He had stopped at the drinking fountain but was coming behind me. Eventually he got up to where I was ~ I kept hoping that he didn't want to strike up a conversation. He wished me a good afternoon and kept on going. He was a guy probably about my age and wasn't walking very fast either, but faster than me. Eventually he got ahead of me and out of sight. I crossed the street and continued on the path that would take me home, when I got to the end of the path and ready to turn on the street, there was that man ~ he had stopped to talk to a man who was out in his yard. Turns out he was going the same way as me, but because he was faster, I didn't realize that until he stopped and I saw him. I thought, uh oh, I hope he doesn't think I was following him. He continued on his way, and turned left onto the same street where I needed to turn left also to head home. How ironic. I wasn't real close behind him, but he probably saw me. He turned off onto a cul-de-sac that is a few houses down from my house. Guess that is where he lives. It was just kind of a funny occurance. I want to walk again at the same time, but am hoping I don't see him again ~ don't want him to think I am trying to connect with him or something ~ LOL.

Doctor's appointment today ~ the new rheumatologist.

Headache is better now ~ thank goodness.

I had made some vegetarian chili and was eating some for supper the other night while Maddie was still here. She wanted a taste, so I gave her some. She said ~ that's delicious and wanted more, so I fixed her a little bowl. She really liked it, which surprised me because she isn't much into stuff with vegetables in it. I think it was the shredded cheddar cheese sprinkled on top that was melty that made her like it. She loves cheese. She wanted some again yesterday for her after school snack.

Got a message from my daughter in SC this am. I had asked for some ideas for gifts for her little boy's upcoming birthday. She asked me to make a smaller version of one of those no-sew fleece blankets like I had already made for him. I guess he loves the one I already made him, but it is big ~ like the size of a throw. He drags it around with him and I guess because it is bigger it gets dragged on the ground and gets dirty fast. I'd better get on the ball

Gotta get ready to go in a bit ~ be back later hopefully for personals. Hope you all have a nice day.

Gayle, I think it is so nice that your children and grandchildren get things that you make. And you do such a nice job with them. It's also good that Maddie liked the healthy chili that you made.

I haven't done any formal exercise since I made that statement a few days back. We have been shopping a lot and I have had a lot of exercise walking in the stores. I did some leg lifts while sitting in my chair watching TV. My knee has gotten a little worse. I don't know if I'm helping it or hindering it by exercising. I bought a new knee brace that I might start wearing when shopping. I leave my old one in my exercise room and only use it for exercising. I don't want to have surgery on it if I can help it.

Maybe you should get to know that man. He might not be as persnickety as Steve can be at times. LOL Just kidding!!

Bobbi, DH constantly blames me for things that I don't do. I'm used to it and just say "Ok, Jerry." He doesn't do it in a mean way. In fact, I don't understand why that thing was beeping. He was not going over the lines. It's something about if you go over the line without using your turn signal the car thinks you are just drifting into the other lane. I don't understand it and I'm glad there was a way to shut it off. Another feature is if you try to change lanes and there's a car in your blind corner, a little icon flashes in your side mirror to warn you that they are there.

Mary, one time I was walking through Target with a cart and a phone started ringing. It was in the cart. I tried to answer it but didn't know how. I took it up to customer service and the girl said the guy tried calling his phone but when no one answered it he left. She ran outside but I don't know if she found him. I would think that he would check back later to see if anyone found his phone. He might not have been sure where he lost it. It's not like she could call him and tell him someone turned in his phone. LOL

Back when I first got a cell phone I was shopping and heard this phone ringing and ringing. I thought "I wish someone would answer that phone,
then I realized it was mine. LOL DH was calling me.

When I woke up this morning dh was gone fishing. I haven't done much except have breakfast and daily clean the bathrooms and make our bed. I hope to get a haircut today. That and to clean a bit more in the kitchen is all I have planned. Oh and dh wants me to plan how we are going to use some timeshare points that are going to expire in a few mo. I'm not very interested in going anywhere but don't want to lose them either. Will call the co for possibly more options.

Glynne - Glad you got your walk in. Funny about the man. You keep busy with the projects for your family. I hope you enjoy it and I'm sure it gives you pleasure to know they enjoy it too.

Hi to Sandy, Bobbie! :)

This morning I had DH pull the stove out because something fell down behind it. Boy was it dirty back there! So now I feel better knowing it's cleaned out. I don't know how the dirt gets there with the stove sitting on top of it. LOL

CarolSue Your discovery behind the stove sounds like mine on top of Refrigerator. I'm too short to see it, but when I reached up to get something, boy was it sticky.

Gayle, loved the idea of making a good "blanket" for your grandson to enjoy carrying without it getting dirty. Enjoyed hearing that Maddie liked the veggie Chili.

Mary You still go places a lot more than we do. Sometimes the time share is a real gift, other times a problem. What did you two decide?

We got a great surprise when our Credit card statement came in today. It is the lowest ever!!! A gift from all that snow that kept DH out of stores. Most charges are for gas or food. We live 12 miles from a store so gas is spent more than normal when we lived close to store.

Sandy

Bobbi, DH cleans behind the refrigerator regularly. He had a friend who's refrigerator started a fire because of the dust on the coils. Many people don't think of that. I know I wouldn't if I were alone.

Gayle, I just realized that the Joel Osteen quote you have in your signature is from the book I'm reading, You Can You Will. Do you have that book? I got it from the library and am about half way through it. I really like it and want to have my own copy to refer back to from time to time. It really teaches you to think positive. Reminds me of The Power of Positive Thinking by Norman Vincent Peale.

Sandy, I can't see or reach the top of the refrigerator either, but DH keeps his candy up there and reminds me when it needs cleaned. LOL I stand on my little step stool. What would I do without that?

Our credit card statements have improved since I stopped impulse buying. I figure if I don't have it by now, I don't need it.

Another busy day. Our gs's (9) dance competition is this afternoon...he dances a duo, with a girl (he does this every time), and then tomorrow he dances his first solo. Excited for him. So this Sat we have three gc competing for our attendance at their activities, but it is his turn because he doesn't do anything every Sat. Don't like going to Portland for it though as will probably get into bad traffic coming home today.

Last night we ate out and our son surprised us by getting here before we left and joining us. We had a nice time talking with him. I ate a little bit of a lot of things and my weight is up again to 173. I've increased that weight increasing medication too so that may be part of it. I mainly increased it (by 1/2 tab) because I got tired of having to cut it in 1/2 plus it hasn't helped my am bs, but if I don't see an improvement in my bs I'll decrease it again.

Carol Sue - I remember seeing all the dirt and debris the last time we pulled our kitchen stove too. Now I think about it and in a way want to pull it out and clean but also don't want to. :dizzy: Like you, I don't see how the dirt gets under there. I'm sure some gets swept under there from the kitchen floor but that much:?: I clean the top of the fridge on a regular basis and sometimes under it in front but don't get to the back very often. Should do that more...I haven't pulled out this new bigger fridge but the previous one I could easily do myself.

We don't get credit card statements. I just check the websites (2 cc) and pay whenever I see a balance. No surprises because we only charge what we have money for and it is already set aside for it in our budget.

We still haven't decided about the trip.

Well, gotta get moving, as before I know it it will be time to get ready for the dance competition. You all have a good day!

Hello Golden Girls!

I just wanted to stop by and say thank you for your warm welcomes and chit chats. Now that I have actually started my plan I have less time to be on the computer. This being said... it's been nice hanging out with you all... I am going to limit my time to the IP program forum and one other.

Good luck with your weight loss endeavors and God Bless you!
Gail

Good morning everyone,
We are having a severe cold snap here for the next few days so I'll be staying inside as much as possible. Our pastor was talking about Lent at Ash Wednesday's service and the different things we can try to do during Lent, one of them being helping or giving to others. When I went out for a coffee yesterday I saw a young man begging for alms so I stopped the car and gave him $5.00 telling him to buy some food. He said he would and thanked me very much. Doing that sure made me feel good inside. I'm doing laundry and making beef stew today. Not sure if I'll lose any weight this past week as my portions were too high in what I did eat even though I didn't eat any junk food.

Carol Using your knee brace when shopping sounds like a good idea and worth a try. Your new car sure has some neat features and I like the idea of being warned if there is a car in your blind spot . My fridge is closed in at the back so I don't need to worry about dusting coils however, I am really bad as I haven't pulled it out in a few years because it is too hard to get it properly leveled again. I guess it would be a good idea to have my son-in-law help me do that the next time he visits from up north.

Mary I hope you get to use your time share points.

Sandy I sure am glad I don't live 12 miles from a store especially now that I am getting older and one day might need help to put in supplies.

Have a good day everyone,
Karrine

I am going to rant, so if you don't want to read, scroll down to the next post. LOL

Since DH retired before I did he started doing a lot around the house. Helpful. And continues some still since I retired. One thing was laundry. He insists on washing everything in hot water and drying it in a hot dryer. I have told him repeatedly, not to touch my shirts and tops. I wash them in warm and dry on low, using the wrinkle out feature. He hates the wrinkle out feature saying the dryer runs for 2 hours. He's exaggerating. Yesterday I had 2 loads of colors. I went downstairs when I figured the first load would be finished washing, and here, DH had put them in the dryer on hot and they were done. All wrinkly, and some appeared to be smaller than they used to be. I went into the garage and reamed him out! I know I've told him at least 5 times not to touch them! Now he says he will never touch my clothes ever again, but he has said that before. I don't care if I do all the laundry myself, but will not stop him from doing jeans, whites, or towels. I don't know if he forgot that I told him over and over not to touch them, or if he did that for spite for some reason. Either way, we're over it. LOL

Rant over.

My knee felt great all day with wearing the brace. I forgot to put it on today. I started taking glucosemine and condroiten but forget to take it sometimes.

It's single digits here, too. A warm-up is coming on Tuesday. There's a stray cat that hangs around our house and I noticed a couple days ago he was holding one back leg up. DH thinks it might have frost bite. Now I haven't seen the cat for 2 days. I'm hoping it found somewhere to get out of the weather, but I'm afraid it disappeared for another reason.

Karrine, I am also glad that we don't live far from stores. We have 2 supermarkets within a mile. Since we are 5 miles from the turnpike interchange, we have every restaurant you could think of, plus a Target, Walmart and Kohls. It's so convenient. We do drive through some rural areas going to my son's and I admit is is so beautiful and peaceful. Just too far from everything for me. I can imagine people who are used to living there would never be able to live where I live.

Bobbi, how are you adjusting to living closer to town since moving from your country home?

Mary, have you ever tried taking your Metformin at bedtime? That helped tremendously with my fasting blood sugar readings. They went from 200 down to the 130s. Still not great, but improved. Just a suggestion.

Hope everyone is doing well.

Been busy again today...got up at 5:25 this morning as we went to Portland to our gs' first solo tap dance in the competition. He did very well, his mom and teacher were both crying. I don't know how he did in the awards presentation but yesterday he and his girl partner got "Most Entertaining" and the most points (I guess in their division). Haven't heard so far about today's performance. I was very tired so went back to bed...dh napped a while and then went to our other gs' martial arts class. Then after he got home we went to Costco as I wanted a new blender. My old one still works but the glass jar is cracked, just suddenly noticed it the other day..not sure how it happened or how long it's been cracked. I can get one online for $10 but the postage is more than that and the blender only cost me about $38 I think. I've gotten my money's worth out of it just just decided to get a new one. This time I not a Nutribullet Pro...it seems to be more for juicing and I don't do much of that, but thought it would likely work for my frappas too. It's 900 watts. Mostly I need something that is powerful enough to crush ice.
I have the ninja set I bought last fall...and I like it for chopping veggies but not so much for my frappas. More bother to clean. So I'll see how this one works..I can always take it back if I don't like it.

We have reserved time in Oregon for the points we need to use. We don't go there often but we have seen/done everything of interest. But it's just a few days and will be a change of scenery at least. It's always quiet and relaxing there and we like to walk around the pond in the mornings. I was only able to get a studio but it is a larger one,,what they call a studio plus.

Carol - Hope your knee continues to feel better. I too like the options and convenience of living in a larger area with plenty stores, medical facilities, etc. We are within three miles of two grocery stores, our gym and many other places incl an enclosed mall. Our doctors' office is about 4 miles away. This hospital is within 7 miles. I have tried taking Metformin before bed but couldn't see any difference. Perhaps I need to do it for a longer time. I've noticed that bs doesn't necessarily drop immediately after you make a change, I didn't used to know that. My increasing the amaryl has made my after breakfast (usually) and before lunch bs but better but don't think it's going to do anything for my fasting. I think the doctor just told me to try that because I was reluctant to take so much Amaryl near bedtime due to my concerns about dropping too much while sleeping.

Karrine - After reading about your fridge I had to check mine...it is still rather new but I'd forgotten...it is closed in back too. My previous one was covered in back by a heavy sorta cardboard but I could get in some areas and vac a little, but I can't see that much of this one, but think it is fully covered. I'll have to have dh help me with it sometime and check for sure.

Beloved - Hoping for much success to you on the IP program. I have heard of that. I understand about limiting yourself in regard to the forums. I limit myself to this one and FB. No time for more.

I never caught up with my housework this week, but I'll start where I left off next week. One thing about housework it's always there waiting for you. :D I've attached a pic of our gs and us at the dance competition. He is always smiling...I ask his mom, doesn't he ever get tired of smiling and she said nope!

Good morning GG's,

It was sunny off and on today. Supposed to get up to the high 60's.

I haven't been very good with the food the last couple days. My weight has been up and down a couple pounds at a time. Friday morning, it jumped up a couple pounds, but surprisingly this morning even though I ate stuff I probably shouldn't have yesterday, I was down a pound. Hopefully, I have gotten it out of my system and am going to try to go as many days in a row as I can of doing the right thing before the inevitable snacky thing gets me. It tasted good, not gonna beat myself up about it ~ just gonna continue on trying to do the right thing.

I went with Jason yesterday to his workman's comp appointment (he hurt his back at work). Then hung out with him and visited. I always enjoy getting to spend time with my kids.

If it warms up enough today, I'd like to clean up the deck so I can enjoy going out there. We have this nice glider and I would like to sit out there some on the nice days.

Good evening GG's,

Sara and Maddie showed up and visited for a bit, then I was doing other stuff and didn't get this finished. Got a pot of soup fixed. Tomorrow I need to make another pan of roasted vegetables and something else. Got my hair cut ~ yippe ~ I can see again ~ LOL. Got some canned goods organized. Never did get out there to clean up the deck.

Hope you all are having a good weekend.

Good morning everyone,

Another extremely cold day here again today. I ordered a new winter jacket online from Sears as my everyday jacket is really getting shabby. I sure hope it fits and I don't have to return it as it was on sale. If it doesn't fit I'll have to wait until next winter I guess.

Carol - Rant all you like. It is frustrating when anyone does something that doesn't co-inside how you would do things. I hope that cat found a place to keep warm

Mary - I'm sure your grandkids appreciate you going to watch their classes. That is a very nice picture that you posted. When are you going to Oregon?

Gayle - when you talk about going out on your deck it sure makes me yearn for spring and summer here lol.

Have a good day everyone,
Karrine

Karrine Luckily the church we attend is more casual than most so my winter coat from Cabelas works just fine. The other coat is still too big, but I'm afraid to let go of it.

I wear fleece all the time now. I seem to stay cold except when I'm very busy cleaning. Actually use large device I can put in microwave to warm up, then fold it around my hands that stay like ice. Dr says my circulation is fine, but I wonder. Dh keeps temps up in TV room with extra little radiant heater that does help.

It is getting snowy here, we called Adoration for several days at the Church. I made the calls for noon till 6:00 PM so they don't make trip for nothing. We go 24 hours usually tonight, and tomorrow and tomorrow night. It will be lots to call for the other people to reach them all. I drive 16 miles one way to be there on Wednesdays. I also get Massage a bit beyond that area before Adoration. Adding in Bank, gas, Krogers and drug store, I can make the trip count.

Its been a very quiet day here. Tomorrow we will be going out to lunch with our dd and then we are going back to her house and I'm going to try and find something that fits me from her LulaRoe stash! I want to support her business.

I'm having trouble with my eating because nothing seems to taste good to me. This has been going on for a week or so at least. Not sure why and now and then something does taste good. Mostly I drink milk (1-3 cups/day), eat fruit, some veggies (but not a lot), and occasionally eat a carb I really like, sometimes potatoes or more likely a little rice and I try to make myself eat a little meat every day but some days I just can't eat it. I get plenty calories, some days too many but don't think that part is much different than it was. It's just that things I used to like just don't taste that good to me right now. Went to Costco and only took one sample and gave it to my dh. My weight is NOT coming down...even has gone up recently...since I don't think I'm eating more I think it is because I increased that darn med. My bs was better this am but it's also been over 200 a couple times. So I'm not sure that the med is really helping either. If I don't see a change soon I think I'll drop the doseage back down again.

Been hearing about the snow back east again...glad you got your new coat, Sandy. I cannot imagine being that cold since I'm usually so warm and use a fan at my bedside most of the night. If I have to be outside in really cold weather though I can't take it..esp my hands and face are affected. Fortunately it's usually not that cold here, but the rain can be very cold.

Karrine - We won't go on that short trip for a while...don't like to announce it on here but it will be a few months.

I placed an order yesterday on jane.com. I ordered some crocheted slippers (like booties) for my youngest dd from there for Christmas and she liked them, but have never ordered anything for myself. I do not know whether they will fit as I am not easy to fit. Usually only order things I can return locally. They are not expensive though so thought I'd take a chance. I was thinking to order some more today (lots of cute things) but then decided to wait until I get my first order. Just have a feeling, they may not fit.:^:

Good morning everyone,
It is supposed to warm up a little this coming week (I hope). Got on the scale this morning and was surprised that I lost another 1 lb. because my food portions this past week were too high. Guess I'm doing something right. I have so much weight to lose that I would prefer to lose 2 lbs. per week but I do have to admit that I sure am missing some of the foods I used to eat. I have to wait until treat day at end of month to have something taboo.

Mary - it must be very frustrating to know that your meds are keeping you from losing weight. Hang in there.

Have a good day everyone,
Karrine

Karrine What a nice surprise your scale gave you.

For those of you who live close to stores, medical help, etc, I envy you somewhat. Since I've lived away from conveniences most of my life, I usually don't miss them. When we go out we get groceries, when I'm near store and need, REALLY need clothes, I buy what I need. We eat out only a few times a month and usually when we are already near a restaurant that serves food we really, really like.

Mary Sorry your appetite is playing tricks on you. You don't seem to be slowing down any. The food you are eating sounds reasonably healthy, but it must be frustrating not to really enjoy what you eat.

Gayle Were you able to get the deck cleaned off so you can enjoy your swing? I envy you that blessing. I miss the swings of my childhood. One from back yard Elm tree and the second glider on the very large front porch. I use rockers daily, but not quite same.

Snow prevented us going to city for Ted's new hearing aids. He will try again tomorrow. He is also meeting another person so I'll choose to stay home. I do enjoy our home.

Sandy

Nothing new here. We went out this morning for some food since we're supposed to get more snow overnight.

Mary, sorry your food isn't tasting good. It would be worth it if you lost a little weight over it. I'm not losing, but not gaining either.

Karrine, we must have the same weather, as we are going to have a warm up too, in a few days.

Sandy, I used to be always warm and wore short sleeves, but now that I'm colder I only need longer sleeves. Still can't wear fleece. Even at night, I let my bare legs hang out of the blankets because they get hot for some reason. Sometimes Rusty sees my feet hanging out and licks my toes. He loves his mommy!

Good morning GG's,

It is kind of dreary looking outside right now ~ hopefully the sun will come out later today.

It is kind of like a long weekend for Steve and I ~ because of presidents day, Sara doesn't work, so Maddie (who has no school today) will be with her. I love having Maddie, but also love those bonus days off.

Fresh strawberries were marked down some from their usual price, so Steve bought some. So, I've been able to have that breakfast salad I had many mornings when we started this diet. Fresh spinach, pieces of the fresh strawberries, mandarin orange slices (canned) and fresh blueberries, drizzled with a little poppy seed salad dressing and sprinkled with some sliced almonds. It is so pretty and yummy. I told Steve that was better than chocolates or flowers for Valentine's day.

It was a nice day yesterday. I got to talk to and hug on Sara. Talked to Jason, my mom and my sister. Got some cooking done. Did some mending.

Karrine ~ congratulations on losing another pound. I wanted to do your end of month treat meal idea, but unfortunately, I didn't last even a week before I gave in. Now just trying to do as many days in a row as I can before some snacky thing starts calling my name. I sort of feel like if I can choose rather or not I want something ~ there is kind of power and a good feeling in choosing not to. Maybe that will keep me going for a whole string of days.

Mary ~ I hope you are able to find something you like in your daughter's clothing line. Hope you are able to find some foods that are tasty to you. Sorry for the effects that med is having on your trying to lose weight ~ so frustrating. Nice picture of you, Joe and your grandson.

Sandy ~ Your feeling cold all the time made me think of the weather here. I had never lived this far south before we moved here. I thought it would be so hot that I wouldn't need any of my warm clothes anymore and thought about getting rid of them. I'm glad I didn't because it gets cold here sometimes and I still need some of those warm things.

Carol Sue ~ glad your knee is feeling better. I enjoy living near the stores. I didn't grow up that way or the first several years of our married life in Maine. I grew up in a rural area (NE Ohio). We had to go about 15 miles to the nearest shopping places where I grew up and about 25 miles to the nearest places where we lived in Maine (also a rural area). It wasn't until we moved to Kansas City, Missouri, that stores were so close by. I got used to that, and sort of spoiled I guess. I like it like that now ~ with everything close by. I like the country, but I like being able to jump in the car if I need something or have forgotten something and being able to go get it.

Oh, Carol Sue ~ I don't have that Joel Osteen book you are reading, but maybe I would enjoy it. I like him ~ he has positive messages. I got criticized one time though by some people because he has that big church and lives in a mansion. They said that he should be helping people with all that money. It made me kind of mad ~ I can't help what he does with all the money, but I like his positive messages. Sometimes one of those positive thoughts comes along at the prefect time when I am struggling with something and helps me feel hope. I do have the book The Power of Positive Thinking (Norman Vincent Peale). A lot of times, I will get a book at the library first to see if I like it ~ and if I decide I'd like to have it, I look online to find it used. I have gotten several nice books I have wanted that way.

How are you doing Bobbi? Do you have much snow up by you? Have you invented any new yummy recipes?

Guess I'd better get done with this and tackle some of the stuff on my to do list.

Hope you all are staying warm and having a good day.

Here is a picture of my yummy pretty breakfast salad :)

Finally getting here. I had a great birthday, shopped my dd's LulaRoe stash and she bought me a leggings and long top outfit, plus I bought two more tops and another pair of leggings. I love them all! I will need another long top to go with the leggings but will get it later. Most fun I've had shopping in a long time. Even tried on a pencil skirt and I think if I'd had a long top to match I would have bought it. Never thought I would ever wear a straight skirt again! The materials are all so soft and most are quite stretchy...some tops are bigger than the size you expect so you can go smaller, however the ones I bought were pretty true to size, just fit me better than many I buy in the stores. I highly recommend LulaRoe clothing now. She has sizes from really small up to 3X and also children's sizes. I will probably feel a little shy the first time I wear the leggings in public but I'll get used to it. After shopping, we went out for lunch...I got a hamburger with sauteed onions and a few french fries The fries did not come with the burger so we just all shared them. It took us an hour and 14 min to get home because of the traffic. Then on the way home our oldest son texted that he was coming with dinner! So we had turkey dinner at home (I wasn't really hungry but it smelled so good I had to eat some), and our youngest son and his fam came too and brought my cake. He (who doesn't cook) baked and decorated the cake! They also gave me gifts...good smelling bath/skincare products, and a work-out shirt. Love them all! I feel so blessed!!

Very tired tonight so no personals...perhaps tomorrow...

Last night I had a dream that I went on a really strict diet and was losing some weight. I guess that's really on my mind. Now to put the plan into action.

Local schools are closed today. We didn't get a lot of snow but DH says it's coming. What little bit we did get over night turned icy so I guess that's why they cancelled school. I think the groundhog lied.

Bobbi, it's nice that you have a little touch of rural near your outskirts-of-town home. I remember all the work you did to get it live-in ready. Sounds so nice.

Happy Belated Birthday, Mary. I didn't realize it was your birthday you were talking about. Thought it was just Valentines Day. Glad you got some Lula Roe clothes you like and some nice gifts. Wish someone would bring me a turkey dinner!! LOL Sounds like your family really loves and appreciates you.

Good morning GG's,

It is a nice pretty sun shiny day here today ~ almost 70 now ~ supposed to get up to 80.

I have been busy this morning. I had been thinking about moving some stuff around ~ no particular time frame for doing it. The mood just struck me this morning and I did it. I think sometimes it helps to just sit here and look around and think about where might be a good place to move stuff to ~ kind of have a plan in place before you start ~ and I had done that. There were 3 boxes of stuff that my sister had gotten for me out of my mom and dad's place when we were allowed to go in and get some things. Those had been sitting here in the family room for several months. Then, I had some boxes of file folders and stuff by my recliner ~ I called it my office area ~ LOL. It seemed like a good idea when I did it, but I found that a lot of the stuff I had (right beside me) I seldom needed or looked at. So, I relocated the boxes, and the most of the stuff by my chair ~ still kept a few things here ~ calendars I refer to, an atlas I like to look at. I had a plan for the space where the boxes had been. A couple years back, I bought (second hand) one of those Gazelle glider things. I wanted to use it while watching TV. I never had gotten to use it like I wanted to though because there was no room to put it where I wanted to (a room where there is other exercise equipment and a TV). So, it sat in the living room ~ right smack in front of the entry way. Steve liked it there ~ said that everyone (Sara, Maddie, Corbin and I think even Jason got on it a time or two) liked it and had fun with it there. So, I moved it this morning to the family room and now I can use it while I watch TV. If I don't get around to taking a walk or some other more formal exercise ~ at least there is this option. I am excited. A couple friends who have them like them and say that they help. When I have used it, it always seemed like it was too easy and like it wouldn't help much, but the friends who have them say they do work.

I still have to sort out the papers I moved and decide what I need to keep and what I can get rid of, but that is a project for another day.

Carol Sue ~ stay warm and stay safe. That dieting must be really on your mind to come through in your dream. Keep on trying ~ every time you do the right thing is one less time you are doing the wrong thing. For me, even if I am not losing great amounts, I feel like if I feel better that is a good thing.

Mary ~ glad you had such a nice birthday. Belated Happy Birthday to you. The clothes you got from your daughter sound nice. And it was really special that your son made that cake for you. Hope you were able to get a good rest last night.

Bobbi ~ your house and your area sound so nice. Sounds like the best of both worlds ~ in a kind of wooded setting with wild life, but still with the shopping areas not too far away.

Sandy ~ hope the weather cooperated so that your husband was able to get out and get his hearing aids and enjoy time with his friend. Enjoy your time at home.

Karrine ~ did the weather by you warm up a little like you had heard it was supposed to? How are you doing today?

Guess I had better get off and get some more stuff done ~ while I am in the mood to do. Some days, I don't feel very peppy and don't get much done, so I like to do stuff when I do feel like it.

Hope you all are having a good day.

Here is a picture of that Gazelle thing

When I woke up this morning dh was already gone. He had a couple appts today with two different dentists plus his retiree brunch in between. So glad he will finally have the post in and hopefully can eat better now. Yesterday was such a nice day. It started out with an unhappy family issue but things got turned around and it turned into a very happy day. One of my best birthdays. Can't believe I'm this old...not sure how that happened but it's a good life. Saw all the kids today except for my oldest dd who is currently in Costa Rica. At least she got in touch with me before she left.

Yesterday was so busy I didn't do much of anything here at home, but last night I did "file" a few health care documents...just took them out of a stack of all kinds of papers and put them in a box until I can go through them. So far this morning I have only cleaned the small bathroom and had breakfast. We have lots of leftovers so I don't plan to cook today other than maybe heat something up. I had made chicken adobo already and now we also have the turkey.

My weight came down a little but is still not down to where it was. My bs is back up high again today. Of course I had cake last night so I'll give it a few more days...but if it is not down soon I am going to decrease or eliminate one tab of the Amaryl since it is not working anyway. I don't need a pill helping me gain! Perhaps I will take my doctor up on his offer of seeing a nutritionist about my weight. I don't feel it will help me, but perhaps I will give it a try afterall..will think about it. I guess seeing I can still wear pretty clothes has motivated me again! :carrot:

I told you I am using the Cosi calendar system. I really like it...I like that I have my meal plans and shopping list there too. There is also a place for a journal and recently I was reading a book that mentioned writing down 5 things that made you happy each day....these can't be just general things, like my husband, my family etc...they are to be more specific. So I have started doing this...I don't always think of five but can usually think of at least 1-3. I am finding it makes me more aware of my happy feelings during the day.

Glynne - It is a very satisfying feeling to accomplish something, so glad you were able to enjoy moving things around.

Bobbi - I too love the sound of your home...truly does seem like the best of both worlds! How far are you from stores? Could you walk? I would like to have some interesting stores I could walk to. Ours aren't far away but a little far for walking I think. I might be able to do it if dh would go with me, but he isn't so comfortable walking these days. I remember pictures you posted of your home at the time, and it looked lovely.

Gayle, I have a similar exerciser called a Cloud Walker. I couldn't do the Gazelle because I couldn't move my arms and legs at the same time and retain my balance. Here is mine.

The link I posted was to something else. I will have to find a different link.

You just hold on and move your legs. Look at it this way, you are moving and using muscles instead of just sitting in a chair. Which is better?

Mary, meeting with a nutritionist might help you. It can't hurt. You might hear a few things you already know and maybe learn something new.

Here is another better link.

CarolSue Crazy device sounds like it would get the blood pumping well.

Gayle Seeing the machine that you can exercise on may, just may, encourage you to use it. I have found I simply ignore mine I'm afraid.

Mary Late birthday wishes.

Day spent worrying over family. Some days I simply get in a rut.