Well, I'm going to try to tackle this even though the computer's not fixed.

We had a serious discussion about Christmas last night and we've decided to go to my daughter-in-law's parents' for the holidays -- for 10 days. And I'm sure you probably know that the carb is a big part of the German diet, bread and potatoes being prominent. Did I mention bread? Couple that with a language deficency on my part and a Russian occupation that didn't encourage the parents to learn much English (although their's is a lot better than my German.) Concensus here is that me on a diet when there are 6 plus adults and two little children to cook for might be a strain. So I started Phase 2 today so I'll have a solid 4 weeks of maintenance before the end of the year. I don't what to flip in and out. So playing it by ear. And we all do some cooking and the food is all wholesome and good! Lots of fresh vegetables and meat (and cheese, sheeze). I'm really sorry not to be following through, really sorry; but I do think this is for the best. These are the nicest people in the world and I don't want anyone to think they need to cater to me. And I don't want to stick out like a sore thumb drinking my shake when everyone is politely ignoring that. Ah well, get to start all over again.

Linden, that sounds like a good plan. It's good to recognize that there are times when we just can't do as rigid of a diet (as you told me when I had my surgery) and there are times when we can. Be prudent through this all and you'll be fine.

Thanks Marion, I know you're right because d-i-law's parents are really bright and well educated along with being kind; and they pick up on everything that I do, being especially trying to please. As am I. I WILL be prudent. Lovely word. The downfall will/won't be afternoon tea. Tea with cakes. Shades of another life. Sigh. (Oh, and so sorry, should have said this earlier. The inbox problem is addressed.) Please try again.

I am half way done with my weight loss. 45 lbs gone and 45 left. But I cant seems to get back on track, I have had 5 weeks of hardly any weight loss or I gained weight. Any ideas? I need remotivated I guess but I am super frustrated!!

Are you getting all of your protein, veggies, water and packets? Don't be frustrated you have done great so far. I don't know how long it has taken you to lose the first 45lbs but that is half so that is awesome. Share what you eat in a day and maybe we can make suggestions

I'd ask the same thing Wuv did, but maybe also look at your activity level. Are you exercising too much for the calories you are consuming? I'd also go back to weighing and measuring things if you aren't because it's easy to for our judgement to slip in those area.

Lindin, I'd do what you plan to do. As you said you don't want to set your body up for any shocks. I know you will pick what you will eat there with moderation in mind and will likely continue to get some walking in.
You are right not to wait to stick out in such a social situation.
You can get right back on track when the 10 days are over.

Thanks for your thoughts on the slow losers. I am short but not small, actually on all the ways to measure frame size I come out large framed. You will notice that most people my height have a goal of under 120 pounds.
Both my doctor and my coach thought I should aim of 140 first and then see if I wanted to go down to 130 which I certainly do.
The funny think is for someone who is overweight all your life you really don't know what your figure shape really is. I have been a complete apple shape since childhood. But the plan is the only one that did take the fat from my middle. I am shocked to realize I have an hourglass shaped body emerging. I shouldn't be shocked because both my mother and my daughter who have no weight problems are shaped that way. But no single digit sizes for me I'm afraid.
My mom is 88 now. She was 5 ft at her tallest but is becoming smaller and smaller and lighter and lighter. She is so frail. I don't want to get down to a weight that would happen to me as I get older. But at the rate I'm going there is no fear of that either.

Rosemary, I had to smile at your story about your trip to Hawaii. I'll bet if you go again you and hubby will both take more note of the scenery this time.
Pat

Well the long awaited has arrived -- in a start to finish 40-minute dash. And everyone is doing really, really well.

Keep remembering a childhood rime -- And the child that is born on the Sabbath day
Is bonny and blithe, and good and gay. GRIN. BIG GRIN.

Congratulations! How exciting! Enjoy the new grandchild!

Wonderful, fabulous, congratulations. I am so happy for you and your family. There is nothing like a new beginning of life and the purity it brings to everyone. I probably could have had a lot more children if it could have happened in 40 minutes. The pup is going to love the new baby.

I am so happy to hear of your plan - good luck and may you have success from it. I will not be on here for a few days - out of town with clients. Can't wait to catch up on Wednesday night.

Sending prayers for safe delivery of a healthy baby!

Pictures, please, ASAP!!!..

hugs

Thank You! Baby arrived a little before 10 am; parents and baby home at 1:30. Isn't that amazing??? Love it.

Happy, Happy Day!!! Congratulations.

Oh my, that is so fast! I'm not big on staying in the hospital, but that might be a bit quick for me.