EP'S SPRING FLING GOOD DIET BEHAVIORAL PLEDGE (EPSFGDBP) Day One...
it's explained in journal posts, of which I made an excessive number this morning but so many of my 72 personalities wanted to get into the act!

I have had it, by February 16, I'm going to be ready to do the St. Patricia's Pledge ... I am making that my personal start day but will also join in any St. Pat's Day thread that is posted ... not meaning to manipulate anyone else into using my timetable or imagery. I've decided that St. Pat was probably a female because a male would have thought the snakes in Ireland were pretty neat and just lived with 'em but a female would have sailed in and cleaned 'em out ... can't live with snakes, can we? (Apologies to members of any gender who love snakes!)

Arabella: I died laughing at thy tale o' the goings on in the cabin in the woods!!!! What a polite fellow that was who came to cut the wood!

Kaylets: Thy point be well taken re comparing employment woes!!! Everything be relative!!! (But I still hate my job!!! :jig) glad to see thou be back on ... that does sound like the machine I have ... did get it at Walmart ... they usually put out one or two but often kind of hide them!

To All Mentioned or Unmentioned (this is a cool phrase but I forgot who said it): Later, gators! Afterwhile crocodiles! Ibid. Avanti.

Aaaah, Friday eve....

Only one more day this week I have to wake up at 5am .
I finally got my monitoring times for this weekend's city tournament and it looks like I still get to sleep in! Other good news is that I won't be having to eat 2 nasty (as in wonderfully tasty and extremely fattening) meals at the bowling alley - but just 1. I plan on sneaking in my own snacks and huge quantities of water.

Arabella - OOooooh, your story was so funny! If he did know what was going on, at least the guy had some tact!

Anagram - I just may join you in that 200 by July 4th goal! It was kinda my hope to be around there by that time... Let's do it!

Senamay - Depression is a bugger. I've been on a few of the drugs and they take awhile to do anything (funny, getting divorced did finally cure me of my depression!). The world, school, etc. is stressful and it's good that you've got some help. Sounds like you're doing great!

Kaylets - Ya know, I think Mercury is still in retrograde which would explain why all the problems in communication....
As for my scones - they're finally gone and I won't be making any more any time soon. Yes, they were homemade so they're not too bad, but since I have *no* other sweets in the house, THEY are what I started craving (breads, what a shock ). I end up eating so many it feels like I have a ball of dough in my stomach! Anywho, they're GONE!!!!!

Frogger - Congrats on the loss!!!!!
One word of wedding advice regarding pictures. I spent over $700 on a photographer and got better pictures from the 9 people who attended my wedding (very small wedding). I didn't even *ask* people to take pics, they just did and sent me copies. They were the BEST! I suggest a couple dozen disposable cameras, hand them out to everyone and tell them to go nuts. I could've saved a lot of money. If you want some "posed pictures" you can still take those yourself, but IMO, the natural shots, when you don't even know your picture's being taken, are the best. Good luck to you - weddings are SO expensive!

Well, that's all from me, for now. Hoping for a quiet day....

Terri

Evenin' all....

Just a quick type before Ah goes off to practise ma saloon gal thing.....

Arabella Some of the things that happen, eh?

Kaylets, thou hast returned!

Frogger...what a week. Betcha you're glad it's nearly Friday.

Senamay, Dollar and Scooby!!! Good to "see" you back!

I've had a good run here...19 days and moving on....done a lot of self talk though....hard to remain motivated , but my duds are fitting better.

Will flit on by tomorrow.

Ceara

Hello All!!

We've been up since 4 am as its SNOWING like mad !! There's at least 5-6 " already and its no where near stopping. Its a fine snow that you almost have to squint to see around-- DH's new truck has 4 wheel drive so his boss said last night " Well we know you'll be able to make it in!"--

I think we were the only ones in the stores last night buying salad makings for the storm. Everyone else had baked goods and "fun" stuff- here we are preparing for the storm w/ eggplants and bottled water!! what a difference a few days makes!

In fact, that is perfect, that is the thought of the day my lovelies!!
You just witnessed the thought process in action..... I have no idea who to credit it to.... That's ok...

Frogger, Punkin's photo advice is really true!! The prices you told us are pretty typical here in this area. I know folks who spent almost $5000 and were careful, bought no extras just a "package". I get the feeling you'd rather put the money toward the house--- in fact, in addition to the disposables, perhaps a friend who is good w/ camcorders might be persuaded to tape a video for you. At my wedding, my sil, who makes magnificent cakes and baked goods, made our cake as our wedding present and her husband taped us. --A sister helped me do the invitations on the computer, another sister did my hair--
In fact, come to think of it, DH and I did nearly all the cooking too,
we did food representing both our backgrounds and some were made ahead and frozen. But then again, we only had about 40 people there. And frankly, in my mind, I could have done things
10 different ways..........That's when you can "renew" your vows!!

Most importantly, is what the two of you are bringing to the marriage. Breathe in, breathe out-- take 15 minutes a day just for you-- only for you!!-- this is an exciting time-- you are making memories-- keep coming here to vent !

I'll catch up w/ everyone else this weekend-- Punkin- have BIG FUN initimidating those bowlers!! Wonder how many eyebrows you can raise if you question some of the weights on the bowling balls!! hee hee-- Watch out for the snack bar!!

Today's thought is:

"What a difference a day makes--24 little hours--......"


To today's best choices!

It's Friday!!!!

Ok, where is everyone???? Part of my morning routine is grabbing a piece of scratch paper, take notes on everyone's post and then I post - the whole process usually kills 30 minutes. It's so quiet here that you're making me have to work earlier than I want to!!!! I hope everyone's doing good!

Ceara - Saloon gal?? Oh, do tell....

Kaylets - Well, ya know how in tournament all the "good bowlers" have 2 or 3 bowling balls with them? What I could do is find the best lookin' guy in the tournament and ask if I could check his balls.... Thanks for the idea! (gasp! I can't believe I just said that!!!!)
I shall avoid the snack bar - I plan on only bringing enough money for lunches and they make awsome chef salads - dressing always on the side.

Well, I think that's all the wit I have in me for now - but fear not, I'll be back!

Terri
( of Friday and Princess of the Isle of Dirti Thots)

Drive-by postie ... I am running late and have to take a hot bath as head still aches but need to get up to the mountains to work!!!

Elbertine has revamped her Pep Pledge (aka Spring Fling, aka etc., etc.) to delete the no food from 9 to midnight rule, too complicated!!! The rules are just eat less daily than 1799 and exercise some to contribute to the 420-minute weekly total. Elbertine is on day two and will continue until February 15!!

Yesterday's total was 1770, 80 minutes of exercise.

Hmmm. Princess of Dirti Thots? That bears looking into later!!!

Bye to all!

Affirmation: I'm on a DIET!@! Woo-hoo!!! That's not a bad word to me and I intend to make it work 'cause diets work if I work 'em!!!!

Good for me!

hi guys...
haveing a bad day cause some guy crushed my little heart. Eating frenzy! I hate that why do i hurt myself when someone else hurts me...should hurt him....i told him if i found out if he was married that i would hunt him and his wife down and tell her if we did anything. He never responded back...so im assuming he is married...so its been a bagel fest all day. You know you can never tell..i met him...and he seemed like a nice guy...oh well gals...its so hard sometimes! I had hopes he was going to be my valentine...oh well.

Oh Scooby I'm so sorry for your hurt....
Men... why, oh *why* do they do things like this???

Your bagle carb-fest will make you feel better temporarily, so when it's over just keep reminding yourself there is still a wonderful unmarried man out there just waiting for you (and hopefully for me too!!!)

Terri

Scooby, did you tell him that to his face and he didn't respond, or was it in an e-mail? I was thinking that if it were e-mail, perhaps he hasn't read it. (Benefit of the doubt!)

I'm sorry to hear he's a jerk. Turn this into something positive (hard right now, I know...but...) by telling yourself that the best revenge is looking great. Climb back up on that healthy living horse and recommit yourself to your program. Someday, he'll get what he deserves and with a little luck you'll be there to witness it, looking slim and sexy!

Arabella and Amarantha, I hope you both feel better and can enjoy the weekend.

Punkin, wow, the bowling tournament sounds fun! Will you get to throw a few between games? Hey, congrats on the new wheels! Zoom, zoom, zoom......

Amarantha, I believe that snakes are beautiful and amazing creatures (especially the HUGE ones!) BUT I happen to prefer my reptiles with legs. No, not men... I am a lizard lady, and mom to a sweet four year old bearded dragon named Vader. I like the sound of St. Patricia's Day....why are men always getting all the credit? Just goes to show how far back that "glass ceiling" goes.

Frogger...did I read correctly? You've reached your Valentine's Goal? Well, a big WHOOO HOOOOO for you!!! And hey...in the end, what's important is that you and your fiance are married, happy, and committed to each other. It will all come together and you'll have a beautiful day and a lifetime of memories to make.


Kaylets....tea in a saucepan? No, no, no....you must have a proper teapot....and now you do! Congrats! There's just something special about pouring hot tea from a beautiful teapot....don't mind me...it's the Maritimer in me...tea is sacred to us. "Tea's a good drink"

Anagram, wonderful news about your sister! You must both be so relieved!

Senamay, glad to hear you're busy with schoolwork...not glad that you're too busy to stop in here, but glad that you're still committed and working hard. You're going to graduate with honors, aren't you?

ceara, you're doing fantastic! What an inspiration!

I haven't been on the scale (still) and I know I've gained a few pounds back. I've done so-so this week, too darn tired to do much after work except fall into bed. So I'm going to give it my all for this final week of our challenge, weigh in on Friday morning, and set my sights on St. Patricia's Pledge. Life happens...can't stop it no matter how hard you try, so go with it and enjoy the ride!

Ah, Arabella of the funny stories, I've shared your cotton candy head a lot later. Ok tonight though.

Kaylets, so glad you have the non scale reward of a tea kettle. It's such a pleasant visual. Mine's stainless steel and very functional but not pretty. For a special occasion (and it's been years), I will make my tea in a teapot that belonged to my Grandma (and great-grandma) and goes back in my personal memory at least to 1942. The memory I have first of it was that it was kept on a high shelf (they used an everyday one) and we only could use it if I'd been very good because it belonged to the "Queen of the Fairies" and she'd be upset if I had been naughty and then used her teapot. I thought the story was appropos for this thread. Even then "tea" (tea laced milk then) was a bright spot in my day.

Punkin, I'm up for it - July 4th we'll be "independent" of those extra pounds.

How did the rehersal go, Ceara? Sounds like a juicy role.

I'm working harder this final week, too, Wildfire. That's me, always working best on deadline.

Sounds like you have most pleasant wedding memories, Kaylets, and that's the most important thing. Frogger, the advice on photographers certainly resonated with me. When DS got married, I offered to pay for a video. I also borrowed my brother's video camera and asked my now-but-not-yet-then son-in-law to take pictures. He'd never used a video camera but complied. He did not take pictures during the ceremony though because the "pro" was there to do that. HA! The work done by SIL was far superior to the paid job. DS and DDIL were so unhappy with the rough cut of the pro video they wouldn't let him "edit" it because there would have been nothing left. Just wish SIL had not deferred to the pro because the ceremony film would have been better as well.

Stiff upper lip, Scooby. I agree there could be many reasons other than that he's married that he has not yet replied. For one thing, I understand our venerated Valentine holiday can strike terror into the hearts of some gentlemen and cause them to go into hibernation. Just remember you are a Victorious Valentine and the right valentine will come to you (and Punkin) in due course.

Hello All!

Anagram and Wildfire- yes, the kettle is much easier. Thanks for reminding me I do have a very pretty "steeping" kettle too. And I really think I should use it. Tomorrow am too. Thanks for the reminder. I remember when my folks were closing up my grandma's house and how they found all kinds of things still in boxes or w/ tags "Saving for company, something special" - well,
somethings should be "saved" for the next generation but my "steeping kettle" is nearly new so I can't imagine why I'm using it for a few pennies and buttons.

Scooby-- Sometimes we need to believe them when they show themselves to us-- If you're right, then you are better off--Would you have been able to break it off if you had gotten involved with him and found out he was married 3 mos from now ?? And I wonder if you made him feel guilty. One time I was very attracted to a married man. Then one night, there was an opprotunity for us to be together. But I realized, right then and there, that it would be a disappointment. Part of my attraction was that he was such a loyal husband and devoted father.
It wasnt an easy choice but when I told him, he admitted he was relieved. BTW, this was years before I met DH-- didnt want to cause any confusion.

Arabella-- I was laughing out loud at work during lunch. and then I said to myself- how would I explain what I'm laughing about?


DH needs to check something with the DSL again so I've got to go.
See everyone in the am!

frogger-yea photographers are expensive...i know im a photographer....if i was in virginia i would help you out. If there is a photography school you could see if you can get an ameture....who actually has experience shooting weddings. Sometimes they have a job bultin.

Well the married man, i saw him online today and he did not talk to me....or even sign in where we usually talk. Its ok...better of finding out at the beginning...then later. Im done hurting myself (binging) i will be ok...and you are right valentines day is a great day to make you feel like a loser when you dont have anyone.

Thanks women, for being so supportive! Its nice to feel like you have a place to turn..that gives such great support!

Sheryl

Hello all!!

About 10 minutes ago I heard the birds at the feeders. LOUD!
With so much snow cover, the feeders are the only place to find food this am. I had suet out there but the seed feeders needed refilling. They must have stayed w/in eyeshot because I dont' think the door was closed b/4 we had customers. Interesting how they'll all mix toghether when pickings are so slim. A friend gave me a great feeder --"squirrel proof"--- that closes on itself if more than a certain weight is felt on the perches. Its good looking too. Except the openings are so big, even most of my sunflower seeds are too small and come poring out of the openings.
Hmmmm--

July 4th Challenge?? I will have to go back and see what I missed.
That seems far away this cold and snowy am.

Aramantha-Bye? Just for that post I hope!

Ceara- GOOD FOR YOU!! 19 days is amazing!! I need to follow your example and keep the metabolism fired up.

In fact, I really should start w/ the living room and kitchen now that DH is sitting upright and taking solid food again. ( But officially has bronchitis)

I'm going to start setting the timer for 15 minutes increments--I'll be around in about 45 !!


Today's thought is:
"Like an artist standing over an empty canvas, you have the power and the ability to make this day into whatever picture you want it to be!"---Chris Widener

Mornin' all...

Well, I'm at the 3 weeks mark. Had company over for dinner last night...Salmon, baked potato, mixed veg (from fresh not frozen), salad. They had pumpkin pie to finish, I had a nectarine. Wine with dinner...1 1/2 glasses...that is the first wine I've had since well 3 weeks ago! Hmmm...both of us gals drank water after 7, and we played euchre, not well either...the men beat us. But it was a thoroughly enjoyable evening and the scale is still going in the right direction. All the is working. I have to work today so no gym, but will be doing the treadmill shortly.

Treated myself yesterday for being OP this long. Bought myself new underwear! No thongs yet but new just the same... Also got part of my saloon costume...nylons with the garter belt attached...now go figure. Haven't tried them on yet but will keep yo'all posted. I have to keep a derringer there...in the garter, which will actually be the top of the stocking. It is the murder weapon but I insist I didn't shoot it. I was visiting a gentleman friend in another room and it was stolen from my night table! So, that is one reason why I have to get into a little better shape....legs you know!!!!!

Scooby, good things come to those who wait...just be glad you are so discriminating. A lot of people don't have your high moral character and courage in that same situation.

Yeah to Frogger!!!! You reached your challenge goal!!!!! Have some crazy bananas!!

Ok, hope everyone has a great weekend.

Ceara (off to treadmill)