Howdy, ladies - sorry about deserting you today. Can't wait for this class to be over tomorrow. All good here - finally at 169 and cleared out some more saggy-butted pants from the closet and hit the suit sale at the limited with some success : ) Just need enough to get me through this size, right?

maddiesmom - you are still doing great - not every week will be a 2lbs one and no worries on your few bites of chocolate. If you don't think you need ww, it might be worth trying without it. Do you hang out on the ww threads at all?

staccie - can you sneak in some healthy snacks to the movie? I have a huge purse that's great for that

Am going to veg in front of the tv a bit to decompress and am going to bed early. Exam for this class tomorrow - yuck! Will be more in touch this weekend...

Hi ladies. I haven't died. I am so overwhelmed with the move and my friend and my apartment and my non-diet and my Marine Corps brother being home for the first time in a year that I have tears building. I miss you girls. I promise soon I will be back on. I am still @ 159 which puts me @ 8 lbs since 8/1. I am caught up and there is a lot of great news as wells as sad and hopeful. I hope you are doing well. I will catch up with every one soon. Sorry for disappearing.

Greetings from Cold Canada!

Well the day is finishing off good, had some stress at work but didn't do anything bad - I had a mini talk with myself. I'm very tired now, it's almost 8PM and I don't know how much longer I can make it I have a lot of work to do and getting farther behind each day but I refuse to skip the gym because of it. I think I might just need to work at the office a bit longer rather than thinking I can work at home, as soon as i get here I am ready to sleep!! A bit anxious about the weekend, now have added a hockey game on Monday night...you can't go to a hockey game without beer....and I shouldn't restrict myself totally from everything but I just feel that I need to for a bit, but I don't want to be a hermit! I think I will allow the beer but just not have any carbs for dinner - that is reasonable right?

Vicky - this is only my opinion but for what it's worth...if you are knowledgeable about the food and know what to do (and it sounds like you are because of your weight loss) and the group does not provide a sense of motivation for you, why keep paying? Or maybe just go every few weeks and wean yourself off of it? You are doing so well and with the exercise, it's great to go on your own when you are ready. It took me forever to leave my trainer and sometimes I wish I still had one, but I don't need it. After a year of training, I knew what to do - it was just easier to have someone to depend on. I don't know how you feel but maybe by sharing that it might help? You could spend that money on some cute gym clothes or something

Dance - I imagine you are exhausted from that class...hopefully you can enjoy the weekend and refresh! Woo hoo about the clothes and the 169 - that's really awesome.

AJ - sorry to hear things are crazy for you and can't wait until you get back. Take care of you!

Well I think I might as well just throw in the towel, do some reading and go to sleep. I will have to get some work done on Saturday...oh well. This life and work balance thing is too hard!!!

See you all tomorrow!!!

Lindy-switching it up keeps your body guessing and you will get the 10 lbs off before the cruise. Didnt get back to 30ds today, just a run. I will get back to it though, I bought it for my sister and sent it to her today. So when she starts, I am going to start back with her.

Maddiesmom-thanks for the recipe again. I am going to make them next week some time. Lindys idea of adding onions and peppers sounds good too. I love onions. Still have my fingers crossed for your hubby. If you think you have all the tools to do WW by your self, I say save the money. My cousin just gave me all her WW books. I may try it on my own, not sure yet. But if I do, I may have questions for you along the way.

Staccie-I want to try spinning, just dont like the idea of calluses on the arse. Thanks for adding on FB. I cant wait to leave to go camping tomorrow. Hope it doesnt get too cold at night though. I have a lot of blankets packed. My poor little pups will freeze.

Dance-hope your exam goes good tomorrow. Sounds like a good night of relaxing.

AJ-good to see you havent left us. Sorry this are hectic right now. Have a good time with your brother, how long is he home?

I had a busy day again. Went to the grocery store, laundry mat. I hate that place, I have a washer and dryer but the blanket I had to wash was too big for my washer. Went out for lunch but had the salad bar. Got a run in today then had to watch the boys for a few hours. Came home and packed everything for camping tomorrow. Now relaxing. I wont be here this weekend. I will probably weigh in on Monday. Hope everyone has a great weekend.

Morning girls - HAPPY FRIDAY!

I woke up in a great mood this morning. I missed my Bodyworks class today because I couldnt find my car keys. I mean, I eventually made it to the gym, just 15 minutes after it started. So, I decided to do upper body weights and 10 minutes on the eliptical. Plus my 1.5 mile walk (no run-Gab cant keep up and she was starting to get frustrated all together).

AJ---awww, BIG HUG! I hope everything works out with you and that you are eventually able to balance all the stress in your life. Your holding up girly, we'll get you through this, please let me know if you need anything.

Stacie- ok, so...I totally think you can indulge in the beer at the hockey game--HOWEVER--if you happen to consume alcohol on Saturday night with your friends, I would stray away. Just your accountability coach talking. Having it one day is an indulgence and much deserved, but having it twice in a week is a complete splurge and will sabotage annd results you have been wanting to see on the scale. Its amazing how quick those calories add up. Worst case scenario, if you really want to, put some extra time in the gym over the weekend. You too are also holding up quite well under your stress, I think working from the office is also a better idea from my personal opinion. I used to try to do work from home occasionally at my last job and it was near impossible, I just couldnt focus and got so relaxed and sleepy. Anyway--good luck getting through your fun weekend, sounds like you have a few obstacles but your right on track.

Burgundy - that is a great idea to do the 30DS with your sister, what a great way to hold each other accountable. Have fun on your camping trip.

Dance - glad to hear you were able to go into the 160's, now I have to catch up to you! lol. Looking forward to seeing you around more after the weekend, your always the one that makes me want to push through things in my day to day, so Im having withdrawals from seeing you, lol.

Hmmm...not too much to report on the home front. Today is jean day at work and Im dressed in jeans and I white shirt, an outfit that is so simple, is making me feel so pretty today. I feel like Im oozing with confidence, so yay me. Gabriella has her soccer game tonight, so its doubtful that I am going to get an evening run in, but ya never know.

Have a great day everyone, ill check in later.

I like my accountability coach! And you're right, having it both nights is an indulgence and a beer is not much different than having a cupcake! Just because you drink it doesn't mean it isn't laced with calories!! Thanks for making me keep that front of mind!

Last night I had to go out and pick up contacts. I live right on the premier shopping street in Canada...so the smell of various foods is always an issue - in fact I often avoid walking that way, especially lately. I left a bit thirsty and hungry and wish I hadn't because although I didn't do anything, it was really hard. The advice of going to the supermarket full is a good one, that includes going out into the real world. I smelled popcorn and felt a jump in my stomach, but I gave it a spankin' lol.

I slept in today...so I didn't go to the gym which means I have to go tonight. I cancelled my movie plans because I just can't go out four days in a row these days, so I will spend the evening at the gym making up for this morning. I am really hoping to be down 3 pounds by Sunday...but if not, I know I am doing really great.

Lindy - glad you feel hot today...that's so awesome for you. It's more fun to wake up, get up and do things when you feel confident isn't it? Even though I have a long ways to go, I feel so much better everytime I have to go somewhere. No one can notice the changes yet but just knowing I am doing good brings up my self confidence. Thanks again for the pep talk about my upcoming weekend...it helps. I can do it!! I hope you have a great day today!

Well off to work I go...busy day again and now I have to work on Saturday or Sunday - boo. Oh well I should be used to it

Stacie- yay, Im so excited my pep talk worked! Woo-hoo. And ya know, I much rather spend the night in the gym then at a movie theater with temptaion any day, lol.

Everything is going ok for me today. They are doing a bbq todya at work and Im trying to do everything in my power to just stay in my office until its time to pick up Gab from school. The bbq will be over by then and then I can head home and get myself some healthy snacks and lunch.

Ok, well I have to get back to work, today is a crazy busy day. Ill talk to you later.

Hey chickadees! I'm back! (happy dance!! exam and nasty class are OVER!) Sounds like everyone's plugging along....

Staccie - good luck with the temptations this weekend! Luckily I'm not a huge beer fan so I can just have a few sips of my bf's beer and I'm good. Hockey games are so not known for their healthy food choices...

Lindy - jeans and a white top are such classic choices - isn't it great to be feeling better and better about yourself? Some days I still feel majorly beat up by the ugly stick out of the blue but there are fewer of those lately

Ok - so what's everyone's plan for the weekend? I'm shooting (wish me luck) for longer mileage on my run tomorrow (5.6 miles) and another hike on Sunday since that seems to be helping so far. I'm a little nervous that I'm traveling for work mon-fri next week but you guys got me through the last few trips so I'm not going to panic

I need a little boost in terms of motivation - anyone up for throwing out a fantasy outfit that they'd love to wear when they reach goal? I have a long black linen dress (size 10ish) with buttons down the front that used to make me feel like an italian movie star (although pale and with freckles) combined with the right floppy hat and major sunglasses. Can't wait to wear it again.... What do you guys daydream about outfit-wise?

Dance- My goal outfit isn't as glamorous as yours sounds. That sounds gorgeous! I have some jean capris that I wore a few years back when I was around 160. I felt beautiful and thin in them. My goal is for them to fit comfortably. Although.. I do have a dream of wearing a skirt or dress with knee high boots. I have never been able to find boots to fit my calves=(. so that would be really a dream come true.

Lindy- I don't think I told you. Your pic is gorgeous! I love it. I love the new hair too.Yo go skinny girl!

Staccie- You sound so busy. I hope you have fun with everything planned!

Rayne- Have fun with your camping trip. I am definitely not an outdoors girl. Kudos to you. Oh.. and I have laundry in store for me tomorrow too (at the laundromat). Fun fun..haha

AJ-Welcome back! Sorry for all the downs and I'm happy you had some good in there too.

So. I just got home from work. It was a non-stressful easy day today... which is rare and very nice! I even ate lunch at work. I have been making time to sit down and eat for 5 minutes.. which has been doing wonders. Sometimes I'll eat breakfast before I go. Though I was running late this am, so I just grabbed a slim fast shake... at least its something. Only 2 days til weigh in! OMG the weeks go by fast.

Talk to you all later!

Hello Chickies!

First and foremost, I want to apologize for being AWOL for 10 days. I also want to thank Burgund and AJ for there 'Hello's and Miss You's' on Facebook recently. I have thought about you all and missed you bunches. I actually felt lonely not being on here.....lol. I really haven't been on the computer much at all, except quick peeks on FB to get my daughters pictures on there. I have just been emotionally and physically pooped. Ok, my first delay of course was Alina's wedding, which was beautiful, but a bit stressful too. My fathers isn't well at all, he is 87 and very diabetic but was determined to attend so he could walk her down the aisle, so he needed to be watched carefully. We took him and my mother up with us (plus our son and his wife). After returning from the wedding I started working the next day.........ugh. I cried after getting off work, just from exhaustion. So, needless to say life has been a mess lately. I guess the stress of finances, my fathers health, worrying about my husband because I know he is feeling that he has failed because no work has come his way, and then lastly me having to go to work again. At my age, after working in offices for approximately 25 years, and then being home for 5 years, it has been a 'mind and body shock.' LOL............God help me. I am greatful for the work, very very greatful, but I have had a hard time adjusting to the schedule, plus my brain trying to learn, and my body getting used to standing for 7 to 8 hours..........ugh. I am working in a health food store, which I do love because as you all know I am an organic and health nut......LOL....so, the atmosphere is good, but it is work and I just need to get passed the 'learning' phase.

I haven't read all the post on here, just this first page, but it appears everyone is doing great and still losing HOOYAH! I am so happy and proud of you girls. Lindy are you still on the cleanse? Last I read you were at the beach for Labor Day. Dance my gosh your in the 160's? AWESOME! I will read back, hopefully tomorrow, however I have to work all day until 9pm and then again on Sunday, soooooo I will try my best to check in read and post. I know I won't be on here as much as I was before, but I will do my best to peek in daily or every other day. I am sorry and I do hate this, but until our finances change or my husband can work, this is the reality.

Oh, I did gain, but I think I have it all back off again. I am again on TOM - God he just won't go away! LOL......and my weight is still down where it was when I lost at 212. I will weigh in on Sunday and let you all know - probably after work, since I go in early.

Thank you again for the FB hello's and I am sorry, but life has just sucked lately. I hope this week is better. Love you guys. Alina's picture is below.

Oh yea!!! I was so happy to log on and see all your wonderful posts!! I had a long and boring but stressful day (ah what's new!). And these wonderful cupcakes...so I didn't have them for about 3 hours - then I decided that I couldn't handle it and I had 1/2 of one and that was it. Even though I shouldn't have eaten it, the point is - I didn't eat it all and then I stopped thinking about it. So the extra calories for my sanity was well worth it. But I am still pop free and everything else and I am really proud!

Dance - I have shrunk my socialism this weekend, cancelled for tomorrow because I have to get some work done and Sunday we girls decided no drinking, just a good healthy dinner. I will have a beer on Monday night. So I am no longer stressed lol. Once I get a better handle on things, I will try and not put my social life around the size of my arse!! I AM SO GLAD YOU'RE BACK!!!! So it's the gym, reading my book and the few other things for the weekend. I am looking forward to getting an awesome workout in tomorrow! Your weekend sounds good - but hopefully getting some recovery from your busy week!

Love the idea of the fantasy outfit...I know exactly what it is - a pencil fitted black skirt with a side slit - just above the knees and a white fitted button up shirt - tucked in with a classy belt and CL heels. When I get to wear that, I know I have made it!!! Ah that just motivated me even more!!!

Neesy - I am with you on the knee high boots, I can't fit into them either...can't wait until I do Glad you had a good day today and I bet you're going to keep on kicking butt for weigh in!!!! It's nice to see you here tonight

Sandy - she looked gorgeous - you must have been so proud!!! And it's great to see you on here - thanks for the add on FB Wow - what a lot of things going on in your life right now and a lot to get used to again. That can be so exhausting, but I have this feeling that you have the strength to get through anything - lots of hugs and well wishes!!!

Well I guess I am going to read and go to bed. Rockin Friday night lol. I am just so exhausted after a week of work, I don't want to do anything else. I am getting my hair done tomorrow so I am looking forward to the scalp massage...ahhhh!

I am excited to weigh in on Sunday...that's a first!!!

Good night everyone - hopefully some of you are already dreaming of sheeps, skinny bums and tight abs

Staccie- You look beautiful in your picture! You can do it. 3lbs here you come!!!

Burgundy- My brother is my bestie. He is in town until Monday night and will not be re-deploying. He is out in January! =)

Lindy- Yet again you are an amazing woman. Thank you for the support. Thats all I need. An ear. We will be all moved and settled in 10 days. Thats how I am trying to look at this. 10 days until I can sit by the pool for a few days and unwind.

Thank you ladies! I am walking the Alzheimer memory walk tomorrow with my family and then I will finish packing. I am trying really hard to remember to breath. **In... Out** =) Thanks again!

Staccie - so glad you're having a good week food-wise - I'm psyched to see your results tomorrow. Nice job on organizing your social plans to support your goals too - it's tricky but it's just temporary. Love your fantasy outfit - I'm definitely putting a black pinstriped pencil skirt on the list for when I get to size 8. My mom is a 4 and my sister is a 6 usually so even at an 8 I would be the largest in my family - oh well...

aj - so cool you're doing the walk this weekend! Good luck with all of the moving craziness. You so deserve some pool time!

mygrits - Girl, we're so glad to have you back with us! We missed you! Your daughter was gorgeous in the pics on FB - you must have been so proud. Hope things are settling down a bit - best of luck with the new job! Just think of how many more calories you're burning a day!

neesy - those high boots will be yours really soon with the way you're going!! What do you think, maybe an early xmas present for yourself?

lindy - how was gabby's soccer game? Any cute divorced dads around? Can't have that nice outfit going to waste

Heading out for my run in a bit, once I finish caffeinating. I have to catch up on work stuff afterwards to make up for the time lost in class this week, bummer. Then we're off to see District 9, postponed from last night. Hope everyone's set for a good weekend...

Hello AJ & Dance ......Thank you for the compliment on Alina's picture. I loved the ones by the water - the lighting was so good. Anyway, just peeking in before getting ready for work......ugh.......I know I will get used to it, and I wish I would keep dwelling on the 9 hours today and again tomorrow.......I will survive. Take care, gotta run......

Having a lazy day...but getting up to go workout! I slept pretty well last night and it feels great!

Mygrits - hope you have a good day - it sounds long but I bet you are the happiest person there!! Make sure to spend some time in the tub after those long shifts and give your feet a good rub - that works for me anyway

Dance - pinstripe skirt sounds even better - I find they look so professional and classy!! And I am excited tomorrow too...to finally see some results. It's been awhile since I have been this motivated and dedicated and I am glad to see it's going to last! Not out of the woods, nor will I ever be, but at least I am learning to change my habits and that's the really tough part! Hope you have an awesome run and that you like District 9 - some people do, others don't but I loved it - I felt really sorry for the squids and I cried lol.

AJ - thanks for the compliment, I change my hair all the time. Today it's getting another overhaul - it's the one thing that I have complete control over lol - my uncle is a world renowed hair stylist and I guess it's in the genes...although I have more ponytail days than anything else these days! Probably because I am too wiped after the gym to spend an hour on it!! That's so awesome about your walk tomorrow and for a really good cause - congratulations!!! You have so much going on right now girl!

Lindy - yeah, wondering about the hot divorced dads too...thanks for add on FB - you look so beautiful in all your pictures - very photogenic!!!

Well I guess I better haul arse and get to the gym...it's going to be a good one today!! Happy Saturday everyone!