Pam..i'm glad that FIL is getting some proper medical attention at last i see that your sister gave you the dirty job she must really be a novice
Today is my 'official' weigh-in since the V-day challenge and i'm down another 4lbs its a miracle because i've been really bad apart from the last two days and even on those i did'nt exercise. I'm hoping this loss will give me the incentive i need to do better

Good Morning All,

Relatively quiet day planned here today. Grocery shopping and then meeting my friend for lunch. Talk about inspiration! That girl weighed in on Thursday at WW and has lost.....(drumroll sounding) 100 lbs.!!! She looks fantastic and isn't done yet. I met her through another WW board and found out we lived in the same city. Kind of cool.

I'm trying to get my school work done this week. I'm down to two chapter, one assignment and then the final. I need to get more focused with it and get it done. I want to leave myself 3 weeks for studying but I'm starting to slack off because I know I'm getting to the end so I've had the stern talk with myself.

I took my measurements yesterday and since November I've lost another 3/4" off my hips and a half inch off my thighs. Life is good. I've only lost two pounds since then but as long as my measurements keep improving then I'm a happy camper. I've never done this well at improving my lifestyle and body shape ever.

Okay enough of my novel here....have a great OP day ladies and I'll talk to you soon.

Oh yeah, Terry, that 3 mile tape was a killer! Holy smokes were my legs rubbery after that. Pretty challenging.

Talk to you later,

Pam

Pam..100lbs is some achievement i post on UK fat chicks and one woman on there has lost 190lbs her pictures are inspirational..she looks great too and i'm sure it has made a huge difference to her life
I have'nt exercised since last tuesday and i only walked 2 miles then hopefully i'll fit some in today..i'm getting more on track foodwise apart from yesterday (which i knew would be an off day because i planned to have some beers) anyway, my stepson and two of his friends came around and we ended up having a real good booze up and some laughs i'm not worried about it because that is my plan..i'm going to be lenient with myself at the weekends..i did this the last time i lost weight and it worked then so hopefully it will work now

Morning Ladies

Pam, as Cathy said, it's good that your FIL is finally getting the proper attention, and I wish him a speedy recovery too. And, I think your sister conned you into cleaning her oven -- got some activity points in with all that scrubbing!

All is well. Not a great weekend food-wise but I did do WATP on Saturday -- five days in a row. I plan on giving myself Sundays off. Yes, siree, Pam, the 3 miles is a killer! I bought WATP for Abs at Walmart Saturday for $29.99 (1,2 & 3 miles with the Ab belt on DVD) which was a good buy because I also saw it advertised for $39.99 somewhere else. I am anxious to try it today.

Cathy, I tend to relax on weekends too (food wise) and because my weigh-in isn't until Friday, that gives me five days to really concentrate on making a positive difference at the scale. Just knowing that I can ease up on counting points, psychologically keeps me from binging out. Sounds strange I know .... but any modification with eating has to last a lifetime and I have to be comfortable with whatever way I choose to do that. I hope that makes sense!

Wow, to loose over 100 lbs is a remarkable achievement -- I love reading and hearing about success stories as it keeps me motivated. Sometimes I just cruise other web sites and scan other people's successes to keep that spark going.

Katie and Stu popped in for a few hours yesterday before driving back to New Hampshire and she was all nice and tan from her trip to Florida. She took dozens of digitals -- it ws fun to see her and it just made me realize how much I really do miss her. Hopefully, she'll be home for a few days when they have April vacation.

Cathy, funny how you mentioned your stepson, for whatever reason, I was thinking about him during one of your posts last week. I remembered when he moved out -- you painted his room quick so he wouldn't change his mind! You sound like you have a great relationship with him -- good for you!

I bought some new vitamins for weight loss -- One A Day brand -- and whether they work or not on weight, I felt really energetic yesterday. And, that was after the night before and all the wine Russ and I had a dinner -- I am usually not that energized the day after!

I didn't get around to posting yesterday -- Chris was hoging the computer. I can't wait to get him his own laptop for college next year, then I won't have to share. Get him his own internet connection -- I'll have it made!

Well, filing and more filing is on the agenda for today. Freezing out with wind chills below zero -- I have not seen it this windy all winter. This is like the winter that will not go away.

Time to get coffee #2 here ... I'll check back in later.

Hope everyone has a great Monday!

Always, Terry

Cathy -- forgot to congratulate you on the 4 pound loss -- bad Terry! Awesome and keep stacking that wood -- it's working!!

Terry..what is the WATP's Ab Belt? what is the difference between that and the other ones? just being a
I thought it was extremely quiet yesterday..where is everyone else too i spent another day talking to myself Have you looked at Posy's (Ali) pic's Terry? she is the one on UK fat chicks that has lost 193lbs..there is one of her sat on a chair with a huge plate of veggies..i've never seen a plate so big! she posted it to show us how much she eats and why she is never hungry..her husband even offers to help carry the plate
Well..my overindulgence over the weekend amounted to about 2000 cals on both days..i've already planned todays menu and that will account for 1100 cals and 19g fat but i'll probably up that a bit because the chicken i was going to have for dinner had been in the fridge for a few day's so i decided to throw it out better to be safe than sorry and i don't want to be ill. I'm also having delicious full fat ice cream for dessert after dinner too Safeway's Gold n Nut (icecream with caramel swirl..choc chips and nuts) deeeelicious!!!
The sun is shining here..lovely..it won't last tho'..i think it clouds over again on wednesday.
I got some really bad news today my ex-husband died this morning..i feel so sad..he was only 51..you just never know how long you have got..do you? it makes me realise what a trivial thing letting my weight get out of control is.

Cathy, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your ex. What a sad day for you, and what an emotional one as I would assume you are reliving many memories, good and bad. We never know when our time is up here; however, it certainly does make us want to "stop and smell the roses" more often doesn't it. An old cliche, but so true at times as these. Was he Olivia's grandfather? It's never easy when someone we know passes away -- makes you appreciate those around you so much more though. Hugs, girlfriend ....

Walk Away The Pounds For Abs uses some type of Ab belt contraption with elastic hand band attachments (weird looking) for an upper body work out. I have not tried it yet, but she does the 1 mile program in 15 minutes compared to 18 minutes on the other tape that I have. If I am assuming correctly, it's more intense. I wanted some other programs to mix up my routine so I don't get bored. I'll let you know more about it once I give it a whirl this afternoon. The other programs I have of her's use 2-lb weighted balls which I substitute with 2 lb velcro wrist weights rolled in a ball so that I hold them rather than wear them. I have heard that vegetable cans can be used as well. The klutx that I am, I'd probably let them fly through the window!

And, no you are not being nosey -- I think you know me better than that! Ask any question that you like!

I'll have to check out your friend' s pictures -- awesome inspiration.

Darn dogs are barking like crazy -- let me go and bring them in before the neighbors complain -- not that they ever do but there is always the first time! Still freezing but the wind has died down -- I'll be back later this afternoon -- have to get some chores done too.

Again, I am sorry about your ex ....

Always, Terry

Morning All,

Cathy I was so sorry to read of the passing of your Ex husband. Ex or not it is a painful thing to deal with. As Terry said there were lots of happy memories mixed in with the sadness. Hugs to you friend.

Good Morning Miss Terry my little WATP Queen! 5 days in a row?? You rock! I agree that weekends are my general time for lightening up on my counting too as it just feels like it's too much sometimes. Lifestyle changes are the key to this. I often ask before starting something new if it's something I will do for the next 30 years. Helps to keep it in perspective for me.

On a sad note, we heard from the Dr.'s yesterday and although there is no time frame they seem to feel Dad might not come out of the hospital. His heart is getting weaker and he's still so confused. They seem to think this trend from before Christmas is the beginning of the end. We've thought that for awhile but to actually have someone from the medical profession say that definitely knocks the wind out of your sales. DH and I both had a bit of a cry yesterday as it's just so sad and scary to deal with. I know it's not going to happen tomorrow but still trying to comprehend the eventuality of it makes my heart and head feel very heavy today. I've been encouraging Erwin to talk with me about he's feeling so that he doesn't keep it all bottled up and so far he's been okay. Send him cyber hugs kay?

Ok enough of me being doom and gloom. Let's all focus on the present and the gifts we have in this life of ours and I'll check back in later.

Love to all,

Pam

Pam and Terry thank you so much for the kind words i was'nt going to mention it but i'm glad i did now instead of bottling it up.
Pam i know what you are going through a few weeks ago when Jim (my ex) was in hospital it was looking bad then and then they sent him home so we all thought he was going to be O.K. it was quite a shock getting that phone call first thing this morning..i just feel so helpless not being there for the kids..my ex BIL is doing everything possible tho' thank God..yes Terry Jim was Olivia's Grandfather..how sad that he never even got to see her nobody has been able to contact Jacqui yet so she does'nt even know that her father has died...i've been trying her number for the past week without success what a mess and the worsed thing about it is that he did'nt leave a will so i'm not sure what will happen with the house...and there is a evil ex-wife on the horizon..she has 2 children with Jim too and i'm sure she will want her pound of flesh even though our home is nothing to do with her it is what Jim and I accumulated together..i will be furious if the house has to be sold..i just feel like jumping on a plane (and you know how much i hate that) and going back home.

Terry..i know what that belt is now i've seen some other fitness guru using one..can't remember who maybe Richard Simmons.

Well, time for me to exercise..i don't really feel like it but it may make me feel better

My goodness, Pam and Cathy -- what a sad day for you two.

It's good that you both don't keep it all bottled up because talking about it helps put everything in the right perspective, and once done, it's easier to deal with all the decisions that need to be made.

Pam, Erwin will talk more once he digests what is happening with his dad. He couldn't ask for a better soul mate than you at his side. I can empathise because I went through the same thing with my dad -- you hear the news, but then there's always that little voice in the back of your head hoping for miracles. Sometimes they do occur, but it's tough.

Cathy, poor Jacqui, I hope she hears the news from family. I feel sorry for Olivia too because grandpas are very special. I also hope everything will work out with the evil ex wife -- for Jacqui's sake anyway. I am sure you will keep all eyes open even from afar.

Keeping busy will make you feel better, Cathy, so get those endorphins in motion with exercise. It must be so hard because of the distance. And, Pam, take it one day at a time ... that's all you can do at this point.

Well ladies looks like a group hug is in store ...

Darn dogs are back barking AGAIN .... anyone want another pup????

Love, Terry

Hello ladies,

Pam and Cathy so sorry to hear your sad news.. Pam I know what you mean.. when my mom was diagnosed with cancer and we were told it was terminal within weeks, I was in denial the whole time.. this is definitely called for..

We had some sad news also, we had just heard this past week that my dh's cousin had cancer. Then on Friday we heard he had heart problems and had to have emergency surgery, they lost him on the table. The funeral is wed. and both my dh and ds#1 are going to be pall bearers. Then on Sunday a good friend of mine called, she lost her mother last friday of a heart attack. This is just not a good time of year, it seems..

This just shows us all that we have to live for today and treasure each moment and each of our loved ones while we have them.

I have started today on a new plan. So far so good. With lent starting on wed. I am going to take this time to get myself in motion.. and if I don't lose something by Easter then I'll have to revamp it again. I am getting more exercise with working everyday, and am going to really make an effort at it.. I told them at work about my new plan so they will not sabotage me by bringing goodies etc. they have decided to use this time as well.


So goes out to all of you who have had such a sad time.
Stay strong, but and let your emotions out,, we can't bottle them up and turn to food..

Dahlia

Cathy and Pam, I am so sorry to hear your sad news. And Dahlia, you are right, we need to live for today. I find it so hard to remember that.

Just checking in to see what everyone was up to.

Have a good night!
Meg

Good Morning all,

Dahlia, a big hug to you too! All of this truly does reinforce to cherish and appreciate each day we have.

Cathy, I'm very sorry, I don't know how I missed the fact that you lost 4 pounds! I'm so proud of you...that is an awesome weigh in and must have felt pretty spectacular eh? Great job.

Hi Meg, how are things with you? Any news yet? How are things going with the present job? sounds like Atkins is working very well for you. I see your new stats and wanted to say how happy I am for you.

Good Morning Terry! Are you having a java yet? Yum...I love coffee. What kind of dog do you have? Ours are kind of attention hogs too. There is a German shepard pup next door that they love barking at through the fence...they drive me snaky some days but I love 'em.

Well off to hit the shower and get into work. Another busy day.

Take care all and hi to Grandma G and Karie wherever you both may be. Hope all is well...

Pam

Dahlia, so much sadness in your life too this week -- my condolences to you on the loss of your cousin and dear friend. BTW, good luck on your Easter goal -- you have a plan and that's a major first step.

It's bitterly cold again this morning -- remind me of this when I start moaning this summer about the heat and humidity. Pam, had my usual two cups of coffee -- needed it because my eyes just wouldn't open wide enough. Some days morning truly comes too soon.

Regarding the dogs, Rochester is a Yorkshire Terrier/Pomeranian mix which is why he's such a yapper -- 10 lbs of mouth with 4 legs. Mac is a purebred American Eskimoo and is easily instigated by the Devil Dog. Both are extremely territorial and protective -- sometimes muzzles look very appealing ....

Morning Meig -- hope all is well.

Get up Cathy -- after 6am in your neck of the woods!

Another busy day here as I didn't get to any of the work that I brought home from the store yesterday. Just so dang tired -- coffee and the vitamins have not kicked in enough yet.

Well, I had better get a move on -- stayed OP yesterday and banked some points. Only did one mile of WATP for Abs yesterday -- I usually don't answer the phone when I am working out but I saw that it was Katie so I did. I must have been looking for an excuse. My plan is to do something everyday activity wise as that's the only way I am going to lose this weight -- food intake just isn't enough. Dang, getting old is the pits sometimes!

OK, off and crawling here ..... I'll check back in later. Have a great morning everyone!

Good morning everyone!

We are supposed to get up to 10 inches of snow before tomorrow! WOW! That should be a big mess!

Hope everyone is doing well.

I finished a sweater I was knitting last night. I am very excited. I had been working on it for a while (although I DIDN'T work on it for a while also). It is sleeveless with a mock turtleneck. I really like how it turned out. My arms could look a little better in it, but they will eventually.

Now I am at work, yet again with nothing to do - but still gainfully employed. I haven't heard about that job. I sent an email yesterday asking if they have filled the position, and haven't heard back. Take it that is a yes???

Well, that was my last excuse not to join the gym, so I am going to make that a priority this week.

Talk to you later!
Meg