[fuzzy324]

Hi, all--

Don't want to jinx it, but it's been a quiet day at work so far. I'm hoping for a nice day to catch up on work here, and as the nurses will be taking students to clinical today, chances are good.

I had to turn the heat on this morning! I love the cold weather, but it was so nice not having to run the heat or AC these last couple of weeks. Anyway, the cold makes for good sleeping. I love being able to just burrow into the covers. Makes for good snuggling, too.

I'm very excited for several friends at work who have started South Beach or other diets. One friend, on Atkins, has lost around 45 pounds; she wants to lose at least 100, so she can have knee surgery. Two others have started SBD, and they have lost 11 pounds and 7 pounds respectively on Phase I. So excited for them!

I made some applesauce last night, as suggested by Heidi, I believe. SO GOOD! I may have to make some backup batches, though, as this hardly put a dent in the peck of apples my dad bought me. Sounds like it must freeze ok. I cut up and peeled 4 apples, added 1/4 cup water, 1/4 cup splenda, and probably 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon, and simmered for 10 minutes. Yumm! If I make more, I may save some to make pork chops with applesauce, which I've always wanted to try, but was afraid of using store bought for the sugar. Also thought about making some OP crepes with applesauce filling... Oh, the possibilities.

Anyway...that's all I've got to report for now. Have a great day!

[LaurieX]

Work is boring, so I figured I'd see what's happening at the Beach and y'all seem very busy this morning.

DH is also a pseudo-pro around the house. There are so many projects that are half finished b/c he's either run out of time or skill. My kitchen cabinets are arriving on Friday and I just found out DH never ordered the countertop! I guess that's okay b/c the contractor that I had selected to do the installation has disappeared from the face of the earth. The rumor is that he went down to Florida to help rebuild and I'm sure if he's there he's making a pretty penny more than he would here. The kitchen is too vital for me to leave to DH, so I guess I'll be contractor-shopping again soon. ARGH.

I love the winter time but towards the end (Feb/Mar) I do tend to get a little blue. Maybe I'll look into the light therapy, though I'm not sure I'll have thirty minutes to sit under a light...

I've been trying to get back on plan, but I'm having a tough time with serious snacking in the evenings. My plan is to get out of the kitchen as soon as dinner is over and not go back.

Mama, I'm hoping you feel better. Beachgal, your friend is definitely in my prayers! Hope the DR can provide some insight for ya. LC, best of luck with your job search! Congrats to all the losers (of weight) and here's hoping everyone has a very OP day! Hugs all around!

[little chick]

Well I thought since I had about two minutes I would pop in and check in on everyone. I managed to get 20 minutes of the treadmill in before the darn phone started ringing. But I did run most of that so I feel pretty good. Although a wee bit sore but good none the less. I figure that I would get back on the exercise thing and then maybe the eating will fall into place. Although DH is complaining that he needs to lose a few pounds. His back has been bothering him alot lately and I am sure it has to do with the weight gain. Well hopefully with him wanting to lose it will get us back on track.

Ruth- I am glad the puppies are doing fine but sorry to hear that you are dogless. Give those fuzzy little things a snuggle for me. I have been begging dh for another puppy but so far he won't give in. lol

Ellis- have fun with those renos.... we have more to do in the spring. I love the outcome but not the mess. You should get those little hot packs to take to the rink with you.

mama- sorry to hear that those spider bites are still hanging around. You poor thing.

darn I have to go my wee one is waking up from his nap and I need to go catch the others at the bus stop so we can head to the playground. I will be back in later to post to the rest of you chicks. Take care and enjoy the day.

[Kiko]

Laurie Your girlfriend is in my prayers. I have a friend who actually delivered at 24 weeks. Very scary..... hopefully your friend is the type who will take her doctor's orders very seriously!!

LC I am with you getting back into the exercise swing of things. I walked for 45 minutes today as the day cleared up considerably. It felt fantastic!

Off to dance "cwass" here in a few minutes. Nothing like watching a bunch of 3-4 year olds twirl around in leotards! Dinner is marinating in the fridge- Balsamic Chicken with steamed broccoli. Yum! I am making noodles for DD and DH as well.

Talk 'atcha later!