Happy Hump Day!
Yes, it is Wednesday, and I too have been overcome by the exhausted bug, and I can totally blame it on the time change, and Debee, we too got snow the other night, so that was a total drag. It was 30 Degrees for the Cubs Home Opener!!!!

Ok, I have to tell you this MAGICAL story! I had these gift certificates for Williams and Sonoma, a kitchen gadget store. Well, I have been very hesitant to use them, becuase I don't know what I wanted, well, I decided I needed a pan like the chef's use on the Food Channel, so I went to go buy one. Well, I would have never spent $175 on a 3qt skillet, but I did!
I have had it since Sunday, and it is like magic in the kitchen, I am whipping up recipes, out of nowhere! I made Chicken Frecese, one night, Grilled vegetables with pollo milenese the second night, and Pasta with fresh veggies last night. I am using wine with my cooking, and chopping away in that kitchen, I don't know what has come over me, I think my pan is magic.
I can't wait to get home tonight to see what I end up making...
Call me crazy, but it is just really wierd!

Lady, thanks for the compliment, yes, I believe Curves is working for me. It was fun taking those pictures of me and my boy.
There was a mix-up on the names though, Josh is Miki's and Alex is mine

Debee, I am gonna have to get myself to Gap real soon, I need to get some more pants for Alex. Hey Deb, I expect some more pics from Florida when you get back.... I love getting personal mail at home, something other than bills, is always enlightening.
Now I have to really be good, because now I will hear myself saying , that if I am not good today, Debee won't be either, and I can't be the fault of that!

Miki, sounds like you did very well yesterday.... Good to hear it, I have officially pulled the elliptical glider out of my room and into my living room, now there are no excuses for me to get on it. I won't have to clear off all the clothes that i have hung on it, to work out, so MY BUTT WILL BE ON IT DAILY!!!!

Taiwan,
I feel your anguish, about DH, I am also going through the same thing right now, with my DH, he finds all the time in the world for his hobbies, but I can't even for a second try to get my time in there. What's a woman to do???
As far as the Crematory Story, sounds like if you got any louder, the deceased would have gotten up with you and started singing and chanting.

Hi Ladies!

Chef Reina, I loved your pan story. Yes, it is definitely magic – obviously worth every penny! Sorry I misnamed your Alex, but he’s still cute as a button. It’s hard to remember who’s little one is who’s!
Have you cleared the clothes off the elliptical glider yet?

Taiwan, Boy, I remember what was like to have to stay home with the kids all the time. It was definitely tough. Have you told DH you need some time off? Will he watch the kids for an hour or two a week while you go off and do something fun? You know the old addage “if you don’t take good care of yourself, you won’t be able to take good care of anyone else.” Is true. By the way, you're a better woman than I am! I would have had a very tough time not laughing at the creamatory!

Miki, Glad to hear you’re exercising and OP. I love walking with friends, don't you? The time (and miles) go by so quickly.

Skinny Debee, We are having great weather down here, I hope it keeps up for your vacation. Sounds like you got some real bargains on the boy’s clothes. Did you get yourself a new Easter outfit too?

Cyan, how are you? I worry that you are so busy with life that you aren’t having any fun. Glad you’re still riding that bike. Watch it with the juices, they taste wonderful but are basically 90% sugar. Hey, here’s a thought; if you like juices have you tried V8? It’s packed full of vegetables and flavor with low sugar and calories; pretty filling too.

Well ladies, I have spent the entire morning on the computer paying bills and taking care of email, etc. Time to get this bod in motion, so I’m going for my run, then off to the grocery store to stock up the cupboards. I have not been counting my calories, which probably explains why I haven’t lost any more. I tried a new recipe for lunch yesterday. I made it up as I went along, but it was pretty good and easy. I sautéed some cut up chicken tenders while I cooked some Ramen noodles (no sauce). I added frozen peas and broccoli to the noodle water for the last few minutes, then drained it all and combined the noodles and veggies with the chicken. Then I added a big dollop of fat free sour cream, about 1/8 c Italian salad dressing and Parmesan cheese to taste. Fast, yummy and filling. Yesterday’s eating was good until I sat down to watch this dumb movie and munched my way into oblivion. I promise myself I won’t do that again tonight.

Well, I’d better get moving. You all have a great day!


Lady

Hi Ladies,

Reina, hey I would love for you to come to my house and whip up some of those recipes! Maybe a new career is in store for you, chef reina??? And yes, you better be good because I am counting on you! I promise to send pics when I get back from vacation.

Lady, watching tv or movies and munching is my downfall too, I should put a padlock on the fridge the minute the tv goes on. By the way thanks for calling me skinny debee.

Taiwan, oh how I can relate about DH and 'his" time. We did come up with a compromise though, maybe it will work for you...on a few nights my dh takes the boys for "Boys Night Out" they go out for something to eat, then to a local arcade, mini golf or other activity that the kids enjoy. It is a nice way for the boys to spend time with their dad and I get a few hours to myself. I usually go to the local Borders bookstore and get a coffee and read magazines for a few hours ...it really helps me to feel I have a few hours to myself. They even made up a song that they sing as they are going out the door..."Boys Night Out, no girls allowed, boys night out no girls allowed " and I sing back the chorus..."oh, yes, oh yes"

Cyan, I hope that all goes well with your mom and I agree with Lady it sounds like you need to put some more fun in your life...do you have any favorite hobbies that you might want to try?

Miki, once the weather gets better I want to try some walking with the boys after school.

Well, today was my french presentation to the second grade I had to do 10 presentations to groups of 10 children for about 3 hours. There were 10 other countries but the kids voted france their favorite...I know it had a lot to do with the creme puffs..England could not compete with kidney pie. By the way the creme puffs were so good!!! I just got them in the frozen food section...if you want a great easy dessert that is really worth the calories get them they melt in your mouth ( I had to muster all my willpower to only eat 3)

I was so tired yesterday that I went to bed at 9p.m. I have not done one bit of exercise and foodwise it has not been good... I think I know why...since I I'm not going to make my goal of being 120 for Florida...I am a bit depressed and of course to make me feel better I am eating...well once I come back from vacation I think I will be better becasue my next goal will be for our Hollywood party that I have postponed until May and then the final goal is my birthday on June 18. Instead of 110 I am revising my ulimate goal to 115, I think it is more realistic. I don't think it is the weight but the toning I really need to start doing now.

Hi,

Needed to post because I was heading for the refridge and needed to do something...

I decided when I get home from vacation that I am going to sign up for Curves. I need to get motivated to do exercise. I thought I could do it when jake is in school. Every morning after I drop him off I'll just make it part of my rountine to go there.

Foodwise I have to start eating breakfast again...even if it is the same thing (whole wheat toast with jam), lunch my turkey pita and dinner will be the only oone I'll have to think about with some low-fat snacks. I need to make the calorie counting easier.

Reina, the 0 point soup is it the cabbage soup from the cabbage soup diet or some other recipe? I like soup and would eat it for lunch and dinner at least once a week.

I hope the weather will get nicer soon so I can start walking. On vacation I plan to take some nice long walks on the beach. I also plan on playing tennis and swimming every day. Foodwise I am going to promise myself not to go crazy and limit the breads and sweets.

Well, I better get to sleep, my son Jimmy has his teacher conference and a play date tomorrow... Busy day with dh home and ds half day...oh joy what company!

My niece sent this to me, and I just had to share it with you all!


Just a thought of wisdom to my friends from a great woman.

Have a great day Ladies

Last April, Maya Angelou was interviewed by Oprah...on her 70+ birthday. Maya really is a marvel who has led quite an interesting and exciting life. Oprah asked her what she thought of growing older. And, there on television, she said it was "exciting." Regarding body changes, she said there were many, occurring everyday...like her breasts. They seem to be in a race to see which will reach her waist, first. The audience laughed so hard they cried.

She is such a simple and honest woman...with so much wisdom in her words. Because of that, I share this.... by Maya Angelou

When I was in my younger days,
I weighed a few pounds less,
I needn't hold my tummy in
to wear a belted dress.

But now that I am older,
I've set my body free;
There's the comfort of elastic
Where once my waist would be.

Inventor of those high-heeled shoes
My feet have not forgiven;
I have to wear a nine now,
But used to wear a seven.

And how about those pantyhose-
They're sized by weight, you see,
So how come when I put them on
The crotch is at my knee?

I need to wear these glasses
As the print's been getting smaller;
And it wasn't very long ago
I know that I was taller.

Though my hair has turned to gray
and my skin no longer fits,
On the inside, I'm the same old me,
It's the outside's changed a bit.

But, on a positive note...
I've learned that no matter what happens, or how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow.

I've learned that you can tell
a lot about a person by the way he/she handles these three things: a rainy day, lost luggage, and tangled Christmas tree lights.

I've learned that regardless of your relationship with your parents, you'll miss them when they're gone from your life.

I've learned that making a "living" is not the
same thing as making a "life."

I've learned that life sometimes gives you a
second chance. I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands.

You need to be able to throw something back.
I've learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart, I usually make the right decision.

I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't
have to be one.

I've learned that every day you should reach out and touch someone. People love a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back.

I've learned that I still have a lot to learn.

I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.

Very hectic day today, I will post tomorrow, have a great one!

Hi everybody! I didnt get a chance to post yesterday. Luke had lots of homework and the sunbed was booked until 9:30 pm so I took that spot and by the time I got home after 10, I was ready to get things finished up around here and head to bed.

I did 20 min on the Airwalker yesterday at lunch and 10 min today. Both days sis and I did our 2 mile walk so I am really hyped about weigh-in tomorrow. I am going to be sooooooo disappointed if I havent lost. I feel like I have tho. This is the first week in a long time that I did not skip even one day of exercise.

Taiwan, your cremation story was hilarious. I am terrible about getting the nervous giggles at a time or place when it's supposed to be somber or quiet. I get it from my dad..I cant sit anywhere near him in church because both of us get tickled over the silliest thing. We'll hear or notice something and being alike, we each know the other noticed also and it's near impossible to make it thru without shaking the whole pew. Isnt that terrible? I know there have been times when I would want to CRY to keep from laughing. I know how you feel about dh. I think all women know about that. Like they say, a man may work from sun to sun but a womans work is NEVER done. I went thru a similar episode like that last nite. I was stressed to the limit with Luke's homework and the messy house and not getting to post here and needing to iron, etc yet the dh shaved, had some couch time, then went to bed to read. Good thing I dont hold a grudge.lol

Reina, YUMMM....you gonna be cooking up something in October?? If so, I'll just have to work on getting there. I loved that inspirational post you left for us. Made me laugh and also made me think.

Lady, your recipe sounded yummy also. I love doing that...just throwing in whatever I have handy. Sometimes it works, other times the dogs are thrilled.

Debee, how cool the kids loved your presentation best. You are just so creative. I'm going to send you my address so you can sent some pics. I love getting REAL mail instead of bills once in awhile.

Actually, I'd love to have everyone's addresses if ya'll dont mind. I think it would be fun sometimes to send a card or something occasionally. Who knows...it might end up getting there right at a time someone needs encouragement or something. What do ya'll think about exchanging addys??

Cyan, how is your mom?? I'm kinda worried since I didnt see a post from you and you havent mentioned her appointment. I hope things are ok with her and with you. Remember we're all here for you. Anytime you need to vent, just let us have it!

Well I better go for now. Hubby is pacing the floor wanting to use the computer.

MIKI

Its friday...I like fridays.

MIKI...The appointment with the doc this past wednesday went well...at least we didnt have to wait for too long to get the ultrasound of the heart done. However, I think they may have found something concerning with her heart that may put her in a higher risk for her surgery. I guess they will let me know. Other than my mother's daily agression, life goes on.

I havent exercised since monday...but I have been eating below 1500 cals and 40 grams of fat! So thats good. I am not going to bother to weigh myself for awhile...it discourages me to see no changes week in and week out. I still have to go see my doc and get some bloodwork done...its just so hard when you already take so much time off to take your mother to the doctor, to take time off for yourself.

Its my bday party tomorrow...its a small group of 5...the sushi eaters...we are going to this very posh restaurant called Takara's...it should be nice.

Reina...your last post was very inspirational...thanks

Debee have fun in florida!

Lady..glad to hear that you are doing well and thanks for the advice

Taiwan...keep going...yes husbands sometimes get it easier with their free time.

Ok Ladies...I gotta get back to work...talk to you later

Cyan

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CYAN!

Ok, everyone sing .....
Happy Birthday to youu. Happy Birthday to youuu. Haappy Birthhhday Dear Cyyyannnn. Happy Birthday to you!

Yeaaaa!

Love, Lady

Hi ladies,

I'm typing with a cat on my lap so there mqy be some typos.

Cyan, Happy birthday, my younger sister birthday is today...I hope you get all your birthday wishes!!! ...(tall,dark,hansome and rich...my birthday wish for you this year)

Miki, as soon as I get back from Florida I'll send the photos...the only reas9on my son said France won the global goodies presentation was not because of the props but because of the creme puffs ...some of the teachers actually thought I made 150 creme puffs and mini eclairs...well, if you guys don't tell I won't.

Reina, loved the post

Lady, hope all is well.

Today I weighed in and I am still at 127... not bad since this week I did no exercise and ate and ate. When I get back from vacaion I am joining curves and getting back to healthy eating I promise all of you. I know if I just ate better this week I could have made 125...sometimes the week goes by too fast.

I don't know if I will be able to post until next week so I hope everyone has a great week!!

Hi Everyone!
I'm sorry I don't have time to write much, I have a house full of company again. But I needed to tell you about my epiphany (sp?) this morning. I was laying in bed finding excuses for not running, when I realized i was at a crucial decision point. I had fallen into the pattern of not recording what I ate or if I exercised. I had stopped combining exercise and diet and I had stopped losing weight, in fact I was checking the scale each morning to see if i gained - not if I lost! I could either face the fact that I had given up and realize in the next year, true to my old pattern, I will start to gain it all back and kick myself for quitting when I was getting so close to goal. Or I could get back on full program, no excuses, and lose the last 23 lbs and go on maintenance. I chose to get back on program. There will always be company or a crisis to give me an excuse to eat. I need to learn to deal with that the right way, and not use it as an excuse to fail. So! Today I had an excellent run and even though we are having a family picnic, I will stay on program and go back on 1100 calories for the next two days to kick start my new beginning. If this is a lifestyle change, it's time I started seriously changing my life style!
Have a great weekend, everyone!

Lady

I had a nice dinner last night...Takara's was so good...the sushi so decorative and boy did it taste good. so after all was said and done...my total cals for the whole day were 1836 and 50 grams of fat I had fried banana and vanilla ice cream for lunch....and that desert alone was 271 plus 81 cals...fried banana and ice cream. I also had some white wine to go with the whole meal.

I did however exercise the past two days!

Well I am out to enjoy the rest of my sunday so I hope everyone is having a good day.

Lady..kudos on you for having that realization cause you are right on the money. Makes lots of sense to me

later ladies

Cyan

Good Morning Ladies,

Hope you all had a nice weekend!!

I must confess, It was difficult to fight, so I gave in to my premenstral cravings, and binged on junk food all weekend. But I have passed that part of my week, and plan on being on the fast track. After telling Cyan all the junk I ate, it kinda made me sick!!!

But after all was said and done, I had a pretty uneventful weekend again! I have to get going and get my easter stuff in place, for Sunday, I haven't even bought my baby's basket yet!
I might just get him a little one and go get him his bike he has been asking for.

So, things I will do this week to keep me on track

Drink lots of water
work out 4 out of the 6 days left in the week
no eating out this week
and 50 situps a day for all 6 days

I have to get rid of this stomach before I lose MY MIND!!!

Ok, have a great week everyone!

Reina...glad you brought up those situps! I'm going to try to get back to doing them too. My stomach is the worst part to get rid of, I think.

The scales only showed a one pound loss this weekend. I was disappointed because I exercised more last week than I ever have before. Almost made me want to skip today, but I forced myself to go ahead. I did 20 min Airwalker at lunch, and hubby and I just walked a mile.

Cyan, glad you enjoyed your bday dinner! Good for you for keeping up the exercise.

Lady, thanks for reminding us all what we know but somehow seem to forget! We're in this for LIFE.... a permanent change of lifestyle, not just something to get the weight off then slowly but surely go back to our old ways and regain it all.

Debee, when is your Florida trip? I couldnt remember. If you're there already, hope youre having a blast.

Lisa and Taiwan...hope everything is well with the two of you. Check in when you can.

Have a good week everybody!

MIKI

Once again I kept in check with my calories..I ate 1230 cals and yes...11 grams of fat! I had rice and vegetables and fish..its amazing how certain foods are so low in fat.

I didnt exercise yesterday but I will tonight.

Hey Miki..good on you for losing the one pound...at least you lost...so dont complain and keep at it. Slow but sure is the way to go. small changes add up to big ones.

Debee..hope you are having a good time in florida

Reina No more binging for awhile..promise? Ok ... lets get back on track.

As usual, I am at work ..so off I go.

Later

Cyan

Wow...under 1300 calories and only 11 fat grams!!! Way to go, Cyan!!

I'm definitely keeping at it. Not going to give up this far in the game.

Just got home from Luke's basketball game. His team won 10-6 and he made 4 of the points..yeahhhh

Anyway, still lots to do so better go now. Homework time..YUCKKK

MIKI