I vote for the new one too!

I agree use the new picture.

Dee

Thanks again everyone for being so nice about poor Nugget. Hopefully that is the last of the bad things. I feel like a real sympathy sponge from you all, and i've only been on this forum a few weeks - it's certainly stretching the friendship a bit! Hopefully things will get better from here... in the last couple of months 1) i've broken my foot, 2) husband hospitalised with pneumonia 3) dog passed away. Not good.

At the moment i'm working 2000km from home in Perth, so the full impact of a doggy-free home hasn't really kicked in yet.

Anyway, have to dash just now so no time for personals. Good to read how you're all going. Especially the dating stuff........

Ange: so sorry about your dog : ) you've had your 3 bad things, so it should only get better!

Annie: love the new look!

Heidi: great job on the spinning : )

Will try to catch up on more later, I want to try and get in some swimming before it gets too hot and the pool get crowded. I have a midweek day off for a change!

Thanks all for the input on the new pic. Now I'm trying to decide if I should put it as my pic on my Facebook page. When I opened my account there, I put an old pic up from about 2001 or 2002. LOL, it will really look like I aged alot if I change it now.

So frustrated lately with how long this process is taking. One moment I feel wonderful and feel like I look awesome and the next I feel ugly and fat. I'm honestly not a vain person. My body just seems to be so damaged from the abuse I've given it over the years. The weight gain/loss/gain and not being active has wreaked havoc. Flab and loose skin that will never go away, no matter how much weight I lose. Plastic surgery will never be in my budget, so I am just going to have to live with it.

I went to Wal Mart and did a little shopping last night. I tried on several bathing suits, and still had to get a Plus Size top and bottoms, due to my large bust and the fatty loose skin around that area. All the regular sizes have such small cups and bottoms that really don't cover as much as I want them to. JC Penneys has better things, but I bought a regular size suit there last week and, though it fit, it just didn't look right.

I also tried on a pair of shorts and a top. They both fit. The shorts were size 14 and I was thrilled! Here's my issue: For so long, I have worn plus-size, stretchy, elastic waist clothing and when I try on something with an actual waistband and no stretch to the fabric, I feel uncomfortable. Isn't that weird? I still may go back and get the shorts, they were really cute. A nice madras-type plaid. The top was one of those VERY THIN knits that are poplular right now. Even though it fit, it clung to every bit of extra skin around my midsection and I could see the outline of my bra, etc. Even if I was thin, I don't like that look on anyone. So I may go back and try to find a more reasonable top and get the shorts, too. I know I would look better in more fitted clothing, but it is hard getting out of the habit of wearing the stretch knits. So weird. But wearing the stretchy type clothing can be a danger, as weight can creep up without me noticing a tightening of the waistband, etc.

I'm sorry for rambling. I am just frustrated. I know I am becoming healthier and doing this the right way. I'm just impatient and want it all gone NOW!! I don't think my midsection will ever shrink. It is the biggest thing on me right now.....that and my bust.

I do appreciate you all sharing this journey with me. It is so inspiring to read of your daily victories and challenges as we go along. And so helpful to me to be able to b*tch and moan here. Thanks for putting up with me.

Love to all!

AnnieDrews - I for one appreciate the venting. This is a long process and I had no idea how much constant vigilance it requires to stay on plan. I have noticed that my body has shrunk, but the proportions are exactly the same. Yes, you can stop wearing the stretch fabrics and buy those madras shorts. Go for it! And the only downside is that they may be too loose by the end of the summer.

As for my date, it went much better than expected. He was friendly, interesting, easygoing and reasonably attractive. For some reason, I'm not into him. I have no idea why. I don't have, as they say in Sex and the City, zsa zsa zu. But I am going to schedule another date with him to see if I become more interested. No use throwing back a perfectly good fish.

I have another date with someone else tomorrow. But then, that's the end of the line for now. I am not seeing people on the dating site that I'm interested in.

On a related topic, I need to get new photos of myself. I don't have any photos of me at my new weight. I'd really like to post some nice shots of myself on Facebook or on the dating site. Like AnnieDrews has.

Caroine-Glad the dating is going well. Good thing you are giving the first guy one more date. But I do know what you mean about not feeling a spark. That is important, so see how it goes.

Maybe you could find a friend to take a few photos? Have them take a bunch and then choose the nicest ones. It will make you feel better to see your new shape.

I'll probably go back and get the shorts.

Kathi - I wish I was off today I would be making good use of the pool. Hope you enjoy your swim.

Annie - I feel your frustration, somedays I can go shopping & find things that fit, look great & I am happy with, somedays I can go & absolutely nothing makes me happy, nothing fits right or if it does I hate it. I need more shorts but I have many pairs that fit great if I get the weight back off, but I hate shopping for shorts especially ones appropriate for work so I am ignoring the fact that I only have 3 pairs that fit. They get washed alot because I wear shorts everyday to work.

Caroline - Glad you enjoyed your date.

Been kind of frustrated the last two days, I know I can't drop weight every single day but going on day 9 with no changes & it is driving me nuts. Have not gone over on my calories at all, I exercise all the time, I drink alot of water, haven't caved in or given up because I really just can't. I lowered my calories some today, going to try a few days at 1200 calories & see if I can't get something to change. My body is very toned, and no one including my doctor can believe I weigh as much as I do, she weighed me 3 times & had the scale checked, things like that make me feel good, but I feel the extra weight. I really want the weight gone right now, but I would be very happy just to lose 1 or 2 pounds a week.

Okay I am done whining now.

Dee

Ange--things come in three's so you should be good for awhile now. At least thats what my mom always told me!

Kathi--Hope you got your swim in. Sounds divine right about now!

Annie--I agree with the clingy top thing...TMI! But go for the shorts! the non-elastic waistband will give you a more tailored and thin look. Oh, and do all the moaning and b*tching you want...what goes around comes around. I'm happy to listen!

Caroline--I'm glad you're giving the guy a second look. While first impressions are important, theres a lot that lies deeper than whats on the surface. Hope you enjoy yourself!

Dee--Try not to get too frustrated. You didn't put the weight on in a linear fashion and it won't come off in a linear fashion. Think of it as a test your body is putting you through. "Sure, I'll let go of 10 pounds...wait...you want to let go of more? Well...just how badly?" Be patient, be vigilant, be strong. YOU CAN DO IT! (and a little whining is ok too!)

Me--I'm doing ok. Truckin' along. I need to get better about measuring my food. I know I ate too much pasta last night. Couldn't help myself...it was late and we were all starving. Ate too fast, ate too much.

I did get some awesome news yesterday...I get to go to Italy for a few days for business in July. I'm totally psyched!!!!!

Well, I didn't buy the shorts at Wal Mart, but I did go to Academy and buy another pair that fit better.....SIZE 14-NOT PLUS SIZE!!!!!:D I'll see if I can get a photo. This is a biggie for me ladies!! Still had to buy a top in an XL because of my bosoms, but it was regular ladies....not plus size.

I also bought a pair of bike shorts (size L, not plus size) for exercising.

I feel better!

Morning girls!

Annie - yes find us a pic of the new shorts and well done for fitting into those little sizes and being pleased with your find! And i like the new avatar. I reckon you should change your facebook pic too, you're looking great.

Think i'll stick with my mouse pic though for mo. I don't have a recent one. The most recent one i have is from the New Year (which is on my personal profile) when i was at 132lb, so guess it is time to get another really. I'm booked in for foils and haircut next wed, so maybe after that, LOL.

Caroline - good work on date and definitely worth another go. I agree you need the 'spark' but also think that that can evolve with knowing someone better (especially for girls!)

Dee - as moondance says, hang in there. I'm recently finding that there seems to be about a 2 week gap between my diet/exercise and what shows up on the scale.... (having said that, don't take any advice from me as overall i've gone absolutely nowhere for 6 weeks now, which i believe i've already bored people with ad nauseum, regarding the unexciting fluctuations and non-progress of that one)

Moondance - great news on Italy!!! How exciting. Where are you going exactly and what work do you do?

I'm still working away from home at the moment but looking forward to getting back there on Friday night. We've got friends staying over for the weekend too so that will be good fun. I've been going for an early morning run whilst i'm away but have been a bit slack on an evening (exercise-wise, i've been ok with the eating). It's always tough to be as disciplined when i'm away as when i'm at home.

Good evening. (I always think of Alfred Hitchcock when I write that.)

I've been good with my eating the past couple days. No exercise yesterday--very hectic day--but got in a morning and evening session at home today. No additional loss to report, but the week isn't over yet.

Ange--I am so sorry about your dog.

Chickie--funny how our minds justify the things we do. I hope you figure out how to get the binging under control.

Newleaf--3X per week of spinning--wow! You must be in great shape.

Moondance--way to go on the restraint. Chocolate is my downfall.

Annie--being able to vent is one of the benefits of this forum. Vent away.

Dee--It's hard to be patient, but stick with it and the loss will happen.

That's it for today. Here's hoping the scale has a nice surprise for me in the morning.

Good day everyone! The scale was kind and stayed at a solid 162 this morning. I was a bit worried, I have been allowing myself way too many "treats" and off-plan items. I'm really psyched to get into the 150's.


Anyone talked to Petra? I think she is off on vacation. Hope she is enjoying a well-deserved break.

I'm On A Boat-Just hang in there, I'm sure the weight will start coming off again real soon.

Moondance-I hear you on measuring the food. When I started changing my eating habits, I measured everything and now I know loosely how much of each thing I need. Some things I still measure. In fact my son noticed me measuring a cup of milk into my cereal the other night and mentioned it. How exciting that you are able to go overseas for your job! Sounds like alot of fun!! Beware the pasta!!

Ange-You are doing great keeping up with running, etc. while working away from home. Enjoy your weekend with your friends.

Kitteh-I hope your scale was kind to you today!!


I have noticed several of you exercise twice daily sometimes. I wonder how you do it!! I am lucky to get in my morning workout every day. Great job everyone!!

Thanks for the encouragement for the whining

I don't normally weigh everyday, usually a couple of times a week, but have been the last few days just to see if there is a change, still no change, but my mood is a little better today.

Moondance - sounds like a great trip, hope you enjoy it!

Annie - glad you feel better, new smaller clothes has to be great.

Ange - hope you have a great time with your friends this weekend.

KittehMomma - hoping you do get a nice surprise on the scales.

Annie - really hope you get to see the 150's real soon.

Annie - Yay, for the upcoming 50's.

Ange - I'm so impressed with your ability to travel and not let it destroy your plan.

Dee - Glad you are feeling better. Sometimes progress isn't detected on the scale right away.

Moondance - A job that sends you to Italy. Wow.


Last night I skipped my class and binged instead. I woke up today feeling depressed and sick, just like I used to in the old days. I feel hopeful today, though. I don't feel trapped in an eating disorder. I know exactly what I need to do today & I am certain I'm going to do it. And by telling you all, I will be held accountable.

I have a coffee date with someone new tonight. I'm excited for this one. I hope we click. He's a neuroscience professor studying the songs of birds. But he's not at all stuffy, very youthful, athletic, and with it.

Speaking of shorts, it's time for me to buy a new pair. For years, I had shorts stashed away in my skinny clothes. Now, they are too baggy. I never thought I'd live to see the day that my shorts would be too loose.