Sorry I have been missing the past several days! We have been really busy and my daughter had a sled hockey tournament all weekend. I have checked in when possible but haven't had a chance (or the energy) to write until now. It has been interesting to experiment with feeling physical hunger. It takes a lot of focus and attention and sorting out physical from emotional feelings and hunger. I seem to only be sure that I am physically hungry when I am very hungry and/or my stomach is growling. It kind of feels like an emptiness in my stomach area and like I feel kind of thin at the moment (because I haven't eaten in awhile). Sometimes it feels like an ache in my stomach area.
How do each of YOU feel physical (versus emotional) hunger? Just curious and it is helpful to hear how others experience it. I have also found that I tend to follow the clock as to when it is time to eat rather than relying on physical sensations. I am working to change that and only eat when I am truly physically hungry. My mind seems to always be filled with distractions, so I need to really quiet myself and go within to even know if I am experiencing true hunger or not. It has surprised me how difficult it is to just identify whether or not I am hungry. I am SO out of touch with my body!

That's okay, though. At least I am realizing that now, so that I can move forward on this journey.
Lisa: Sorry you were having a hard time last night.

I hope your venting here and the clonazapam helped to calm you some. And hopefully you got some rest. How are you today? Were you able to concentrate on your math any better today? I hope so! That is so frustrating when you can't focus your mind on the task at hand. Makes everything feel more difficult. Try to be patient with yourself and get rest when you need it. You will get through this difficult time!
Holly: My family situation IS workable now, thank God, but we have a lot going on. On a positive note, I have been surprised and proud of myself for how well I have handled the turmoil lately. I have been much more confident in myself and in my abilities to handle whatever comes our way. Thank you for your support, as always! So happy to hear that your annual motorcycle raffle went well! Glad you are relieved of that looming over your head. Sorry that you are battling a distorted self-image. I can certainly relate! I sometimes feel "okay" until I see photos of my LARGE self. Then I think, "What was I thinking?!?"

I am working hard to not judge myself too terribly harshly, but to instead use the "observation" (without so much judgement) as just information. I remind myself that I am working on weight loss and making small changes every day. Trying to focus on the positive rather than the negative. It is a constant challenge for me, but I am getting a little better at it all the time. On another note, I too wonder/worry about some of our "old" group members, like Lilturtle, Amy, CDubsGotGoats, and many others. When I think of them, I just say a little prayer for them and wish good things their way.
Invincible1: I am so sorry to hear that you had such a horrible eye appointment the other day.

What exactly is wrong, if you don't mind me asking? And when will your surgery be? I will keep you in my prayers. All will be well..... eventually. Sending a BIG HUG your way!!!
Fi: That is great news that the situation with Grace has improved a whole lot!

How did your Friday with her go? I hope you were able to raise your mood before you met with her so that you could thoroughly enjoy your time together. Have you still been able to keep the bingeing at bay? I've been thinking about you and wishing you well!
Everyone Else: Where are you and how are you??? We want to hear from you!!! Hope all is well!
