Well, I don't know if I will be posting the next few weeks ladies. I may have access to a computer and then again maybe not:-) We are traveling to FL--stopping at SC and GA on the way down and another spot in SC on the way back. I probably will get more serious after those 2 weeks since when visiting others, you kinda depend on want they want to eat, etc.

Reina--sorry to hear you will be leaving, but you know what is best. Hope you can work things out and come back to us soon. Remember to stop in every so often.

Cyan, hope you are feeling better. My mom is battling a cold of somekind and having 2 grandsons running around and being noisy isn't helping her much either.

Miki-how did the birthday party go? I am sure everyone had fun. We didn't do a party for my Joshua, which is fine for me, I am not a party type person. how is your new video's going? I need to get something I can use here in the states

Debee, have you recuperated from your party yet?:-) A list of measurements and what we have learned would be good. Hey, I would like to put you all on my Christmas card list, those who want to be, can you e-mail me your address? [email protected] just write me there.

Newie, how are things going now? my mom said she was on atkins, but then had problems with her thyroid (it's a hereditary in our family)so she went off. I am not sure what I want to do, but gotta do something.

Well, all, I need to let my 5yr old use the computer (that I promised to let him get on 30min ago proves he is learning patience!!)

Love ya all. We gotta keep our chins up ladies!!! GO GO GO

Deana

:grouphug: A hug for Reina! Sorry you're feeling depressed lately. I hope getting back to Curves will make you feel better soon. I know with me, when I get out of exercising, I end up getting in a bad mood. Usually I dont even realize that's the problem at first, then it hits me. My sis is the same way. Both of us get that way when we dont get to walk. It's such a stress relief to exercise. Even when my eating isnt great, I still feel better doing something active each day. Please be sure to check in with us when you can to let us know how you're doing. We miss you when you're not around!

Cyan, glad you finally got some sleep! It's a miserable feeling to be tired and really wanna sleep but not being able to. I bet all that rain helped huh?

Taiwan, we had fun the other nite but I ate too much just like I knew I would. Back on track this week tho. :) I'm still loving my new video tape. This is my 3rd week of using it on Mon, Wed, and Fridays. Still walking 3 miles on the other days. Hope you have a safe trip travelling the next few weeks. Pop in anytime you can.

Newie, sounds like you had fun on the field trip with your daughter. Did you get rid of that awful headache?

Debee, how are things with you? How was the party? Did you wear your "skinny" skirt??:lol:

Lisa, hoping things are great with you.

Well all, I gotta go for now. Talk to ya'll again soon.

Miki

Hi, all! Just wanted to send a quick note--I've not been in the best of moods the last couple of days--I think I've been grieving my job a bit--not that I want to go back or anything--I don't. I think I am just going through the stages of loss/death/grief. I'm going through an angry stage--a "how could I have trusted?" stage. I don't worry about it. I know the feelings will pass in time. I also sometimes get down with hubby's uncertainty. Still, I'm hanging in there a day at a time.

I've got a concrete goal to work for in my quest to lose a few pounds--my mother-in-law ordered a jacket/blazer from TV that was too big for her--guess what? It is just the tiniest bit too tight for me--and gorgeous. I figure if I lose down to 150 lbs., it will fit me. That's 8 1/2 lbs. I'm going to try for Christmas as a goal.

Reina--hang in there--we're behind you 100%! Sometimes it can get pretty rough, and worse when we get really off track. Please do not beat yourself up about it. You can do it.

Well, everybody, take care. Don't work too hard, anyone. Take care. More later.:)

Good Morning Lades
 

Hey Girls

On Monday morning I orderd hubcaps for my winter tires...I have mags for my summer tires but I dont want to use them in the winter...anyhoo, they quoted me a price of 22.84 each for newbeetle hubcaps..I was very happy with that price so I ordered them...they said it would be ready wednesday and that I could pay by phone....so I call this morning and they ordered caps for my mag wheels...:dz: well I dont need those I say...I need hubcaps for my steel rims!!! Oh,..so sorry well we have two in stock but we will have to order two more which we will have tomorrow...and the price is now 40 dollars each:mad: and that's there cost price plus 10 percent..or else they would of cost me 58 dollars...yeesh! That dealership has made nothing but mistakes ...and then they have to correct them...thank goodness they have so far but I am afraid to bring in my car for maintenance for fear they will screw something up:(

Well that was that...other than that...I have been sticking to my food allowances and doing pretty well...I havent been exercising so I gotta concentrate on doing that.

later

Cyan

Hey girls! How are ya!:)

Reina, hope you get back in the groove real soon! Life is difficult enough without being a woman with weight issues. It just doesn't seem fair sometimes.:?:

Cyan, the problems with that dealership sure do sound frustrating. However, I'm jealous of your new car!

Well, as for me...I'll be nine weeks pregnant tomorrow (Thursday). Tomorrow is my first OB visit. Today I went to my family doctor because I HAVE A HERNIA!!!:shrug: Can you believe it?! I'm not sure the cause, but I think it's because of my surgery in January and my growing uterus has made it worse. Anyway, the doctor said she is going to talk to the other doctors and see if they should try and get me through the whole pregnancy or if my growing belly will only make it worse. She said that they will get back to me.

For some good news, I got a job! I start on November 14. It's a Nurse Tech job PRN on the Medical Telemetry floor. I'm so excited. I think it will be very helpful to get experience. They are very flexible with scheduling and everything so I think it will work out great!

Well, that's all for now!

Lisa:wave:

Lisa, Congratulations on your new job!!:bravo: When do you start? What exactly is the 'telemetry' floor?? (sorry if that's a dumb question, but I dont know that term:dizzy: ) Sorry to hear about the hernia...are you having any pain from it? Let us know when you find out something definite about what the docs want to do.

Cyan, how I wish we could combine our efforts! I'm not having a problem exercising...just with my eating. Wouldnt it be nice if I could exercise for you and you could eat right for me??:lol:

Newie, that new blazer sounds like a good motivator for a Christmas goal. Maybe you can make your goal a little early and have it to wear to some Christmas parties.:hat: I think the feelings you're having about your job are perfectly normal. Just try to think of all the positives that have come of it tho. You're more in control, are getting your house organized and fixed up, have lots more time for family, and are getting in many more walks than before. That free time probably won't last forever so try to enjoy every minute you can. :)

When I have time, I'll try to locate my measurements again. It has been an entire year now since I started this healthier life. I'm sooo hoping for a loss this week. I'll let ya know.

Hope the rest of you ladies are having a nice week. Bye for now..

Miki

Hi, all! Not much to report today. I'm doing my walking--weather is brisk--good for it. I'm doing pretty well on eating, except I had a couple of sweet things today--two pieces of broken cookie and a sample of jelly beans--neither was too good. I had my yearly mammogram today--they're no big deal to me--hopefully nothing wrong.

Cyan--sorry for the runaround/mess with your car dealership. Isn't it the pits when they can't get it right? It makes you wonder about people sometimes.

Lisa--take care with that hernia--don't overdo, especially with your new job.

Miki--how are things going for you? You must be super busy. It's been quite a few days since we've heard from you. Take care.

Taiwan and Debee--hope all is good for both of you.

I'm feeling better inside my head today--did some research online on abusive/bully bosses last night--in response to my sadness about my former job and boss. I think the old girl was a workplace bully--a number of the feelings I've had lately--anger, guilt, lack of confidence, a strange mix of feelings--are common with people who have been bullied on the job. What I didn't realize when I was there was that the obvious confrontations she and I had were not the only incidents of abuse I received. Her attitude and expectations, way of communicating and treating me on a daily basis--all of them were abusive, whether subtle or overt--she showed no respect for me as competent person, waved her power around, made the workplace a catch-22 situation. I knew deep down it wasn't right, but I thought I could handle it. It was interesting to read the physical and emotional effects of workplace abuse on the worker. Not allowing her to continue the abuse was a wonderful thing I did, but the suddenness of quitting was a big shock to my system--almost like being laid off. I'm dealing with lots of feelings of betrayal and untrust and loss of a way of life, even though I am sure I belong at home right now. Hubby told me this morning that family life is better with me a stay-at-home mom. Anyway, I don't want to go on and on. Some might say, "It's over. Put it in the past and go on." And I will. I'm just one of those people who has to work through all negative feelings. If I don't, I'll probably behave in an unhealthy way over it--like maybe eat or get depressed or something.

Well, anyway, enough for today. Tomorrow I'm going to sponge a star border on my 13 year-old Veronica's room. I'll let you know how it turns out. Bye for now.

Hi Ladies,

Just a real quick note before I put the kids to bed. The party on Saturday night was great. I wore a seqined black and red jacket, black shorts, and black tank top and black fishnets. I had a feathered head dress and everyone said I looked like a show girl..oh well I guess it was very dark and my friends were very drunk!

I have been real busy..I am having a party for Jake on Friday night and next Sunday having one for Jimmy. I also might be on Home and Garden network television show on antique collecting. They did a pre-production filming on monday. I will let you all know if I am selected. This way you will get to see me and my house.

Foodwise I have been very bad too many sweets!

Hey Ladies
 

Man has it every been busy at work...work work work ...and then more work...anyhoo

Congrats Lisa:cp: on getting your first nursing job...ditto what Miki says...explain the telemetry question. I hope your hernia problem has a quick resolution and I hope that you are not suffering from it too badly...yeesh keep us posted.

Hey Miki...you and I should be one person...that would be cool...plus I would have a husband:lol: instead of being single but I do have my eye on this guy that seems rather interesting...he is well educated, has his own building and loves to cook...so stay tuned girls:smug:

Hey Newie...you know what I say...good riddance (sp?) to that horrible bully boss...who needs that..life is too short and you dont need a b**ch like that making your life hard. May she never darken your doorstep again...movin on girlfriend...keep the faith and you shall see good things will come your way.

Hey Debbie...why would your friends be drunk or your basement too dark....You are a hot babe...repeat after me...I am a hot babe...I am woman...hear me roar!!!!!!! :lol: So ..please...no self depricating comments or disparaging thoughts.

Well I finally got my hubcaps...and my friend is kind enough to pick them up for me...so I will have them in my hands by this evening

Later ladies...stay strong and positive
Cyan

Hi, ladies--it's been a long, long day today--lots has happened. Last night hubby came home and told me that his supervisor asked him to come to a meeting in the HR manager's office on Friday at 11. She didn't say why. He is due for a yearly review--the only thing is that a week ago the supervisor told him that reviews were running about a month late. Tomorrow is only two weeks late for him. We're thinking it's about what was said to him 6 weeks ago--improve or else. We don't know for sure, and I'm sure I sound as if I'm looking at the situation pessimistically, but John has already been laid off twice since 1995, and it felt both times like we were kicked in the stomach and thrown into the air. I guess we're trying to prepare for the worst--don't want to be caught off-guard or in denial. Anyway, I have made sure I have taken care of all doctor things--have been doing that anyway, but today I refilled prescriptions and picked up Veronica's new glasses. All those things are covered by health insurance and won't be if he is let go. I didn't sleep well last night--kitty slept on the couch right next to my heart all night. She is such a blessing in our lives. I spent a lot of time praying today--that we'll be taken care of. We always have, and I have faith we always will be, but I get very panicky when financial insecurity strikes. I was raised with an alcoholic father who spent all the money and had trouble keeping a job, and my mother vented all her money worries on me. Anyway, I worry about money a lot.

Speaking about money and prayer--yes, I am going to speak about both in the same sentence, and after that last paragraph where I was very down. This morning I received an answer to my prayer about being taken care of--talk about God listening and then answering!! About an hour after I talked to a friend and my mother-in-law this morning about what was happening to hubby and me, and they told me to have faith in God--that all would work out, I received a phone call from the principal of my kids' school asking me if I would be willing to substitute teach the first grade for about 3 months because the regular teacher is having surgery in about 4 weeks. Most of my experience is 6th grade and up, but I've worked some with smaller children and have no problem relating to them. The subject matter is the challenge for me. Anyway, I accepted her offer, so I will start working every day beginning around November 24 or so. To me that is a real God sign that everything will be all right, though it might not be easy, and I will probably be scared all along the way. The best thing about the sub job is that I will be near my girls, and I will have time to get my house the rest of the way in order before starting. Will it last longer than 3 months? Possibly. This same teacher had surgery like this (back) last year, and ended up having to have it redone. The principal told me that might happen again, and I committed to a second stint if needed. It's really important to have consistency for the kids. Anyway, Miki, you're right. I will be busy sooner than I think, so I am going to appreciate the slower pace I have now. And about the old job--I'm glad I got in touch with the "bully boss" concept. It has helped me understand quite a bit of what I experienced in that job, and you're definitely right, Cyan, I DON'T want to work in that type of situation. If I need teaching materials for my class, I won't even go into her stores. I know of others I can go to. I never want to see her again. Also, when I am subbing, I am going to do my walking after school--maybe before going home, even--take my kids with me--get them some exercise too.

Debee--it sounded like your party was great. Cyan is right. Don't put yourself down. We are all beautiful. I love shows about antiques--too bad I don't have cable TV, or I'd look for you on TV with your antiques.

Well, everyone, got to go--it's time to make dinner. John will be home in an hour. I'll let everyone know tomorrow what happened with his job. Bye for now--thanks for listening.

Only time for a very quick post...Josh is dying for me to get off and let him chat with his friends.:dizzy:

Just had to share my good news tho....Finally today I was off that 195 mark I've been stuck on since June or July!! This morning it was between 192 and 193!! I know that's not a huge amount but compared to NOTHING, it's GREAT! :)

Oh, more good news...today was teacher/parent conferences at school and both kids made Honor Roll.....Hooray again!

Ok, there's more...I only had to work one day this week...so far anyway. I've enjoyed it so much. I fill in for all the depts for whoever happens to be off, and for the last 3 days, every person was actually there! That's rare.

Cyan, keep us informed about that new guy.;)

Newie, see how it all works out? You were worried about finances and already you have something in the works. :)

Debee, if you get on the show, you've got to let us know when. That would be so exciting to watch you! I'd have to get all my friends to tune in also. I'd tell them I know a celebrity.:lol:

Well, Josh is really griping because he has to go to bed shortly and hasnt had a chance to chat yet. Guess I'll give in since he made Honor Roll...lol

Bye for now

Miki

Hello Ladies
 

Its FRIIIIIIIIIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAYYYYYYYYYYY:dance:

Need I say more!!

Looking forward to sleeping in...ahhhh can't wait.

Hey Miki congrats on getting off the plateau...you are on your way to slimdown ville...enjoy!! And it must feel good to have such great hard working kids.

Hey Newie...I hope things work out for your husband today...let us know what happened and how it turned out. And good to hear that you have a teaching job set up for november...its good to know that things are working out...slowly but surely...big hug to you and yes...cats are amazing...they are very intuned with their family members emotions...give kitty a little hug and kiss for me.

Well I got my hubcaps ...so now silverbeega has her new snow shoes..all shiny and new:lol:

Ok, gotta go

have a great weekend everybody

Cyan

Still here
 

MICKEY!!! you go girl :cool: :cool: :cool: :strong: :bravo: :cp: :hat:

I am so excited for you. My hero, you are an encouragement to me!!

Well, I need to get off my friends computer. Talk to you all later.

Deana

Thanks Cyan and Deana. :) I am far from being 'hero' status tho.:lol: Hope everyone has a good weekend. I have to work tomorrow but it's ok since I was off 4 days this week. No news, just wanted to say hello.

Miki

Hi, all--well, it happened. Hubby was let go from his job yesterday. We really expected it. At least the suspense is over now. Yesterday we were all just very tired and relieved. I had trouble sleeping last night--hot flash woke me up--this morning I have this heavy feeling in the pit of my stomach. I just keep praying. I know it will all work out. It always has in the past. It's just hard. This morning we are scheduled to close on our home equity line. We're just going to go over and sign the papers and be done with it. Hopefully it will be a simple matter without any questions. Having our bills consolidated will make life much easier during this time. There will be one bill to pay instead of 5. Of course there will be unemployment compensation, plus what I will be making for three months. I just find the uncertainty of it all very difficult. It will just be one day at a time, with a lot of prayer. If you ladies are religious or use prayer in your lives, will you all please pray for us? And thank you so much for all the support you are giving me each day.

A side note--I lost 2 pounds this week--probably stress induced, plus I was also watching the food more--but I'll take the loss however I can get it. Monday I will be subbing for the 1st grade teacher half the day--she has a doctor appointment.

Well, have to go. I want to e-mail my mother with the news. Talk to you all soon.

Newie, so sorry to hear your news! As bad as it is, at least you arent still in limbo wondering each day if and when. I will definitely have you and your family in my prayers. Now that it's fact and not speculation, your hubby will be able to get out and see what's out there for him. It's hard to look for a job while working at one. I hope he finds one that he just absolutely loves!! ( and SOON)

Congrats on the 2 lb loss...just sorry it came off due to stress.

One day at a time is the only way to handle your situation. Sounds like you have a good attitude about it which should help your hubby. He'll need that!

Well, better run for now. Worked today and have things at home I need to get done now.

Miki

WEnt to a fall festival for Awanas (Christian kids program alot of churches have) and so eating was nothing near great. Walked around alot though.

Newie, sorry about all that is going on. Something positive will come of it. Take some special time during the days with your dh and relax. Something better is near, I just feel it.

Take care all. Still in SC, traveling to FL on Monday. Not fun!!!

Hey Ladies
 

Newie...sorry to hear about your hubby's job loss...I will say a special prayer for you and your family. Stay strong, positive and motivated and hopefully soon , your hubby will be back on his feet and doing a job he loves.

I had an uneventful weekend...lots of rain ..ugh..I did see Mystic River...very good film

I had this craving for smoked salmon and in two days time..I ate 1lb of it...yep 454 grams of smoked salmon..it was soooooo good...I also had sole this weekend...and shrimp..looks like I am on a fish kick...at least they are low in fat and very nutritious for you...which is good.


oh I almost forgot...congrats Newie on losing two pounds...rock on!

well as usual, its very busy here at work and I best get back to the task at hand

later ladies

Cyan

Hi ladies,


Sorry I have not been abloe to post as much as I would like.


Newie, remember when one door closes another one opens..I always found it to be true that sometimes hard times just make you appreciate the good times more.

Cyan, now young lady we all want to know about this new guy! Have you madee any moves yet?

Miki, pretty soon you will be in a size 6. You are one motivated woman. Just think of how well you did in the past year! I will let you know if I am selected for the show. The are planning to film Novemebr 10-14 so I will know soon. This way you can see all the junk that I pick up from auctions every Thursday.

Deena, hope you are having fun traveling.

Lisa, how are you feeling? Do you have any names for the baby picked out yet?

Reina, I miss you I hope you come back soon.

Foodwise it has been very tough for me in the past few months I think I have too many party foods around the house that I keep eating. Plus we have had so much rain that I have not been walking.

I was hoping to lose by Christmas but I am just not sure how. I think I will try the 90/10 diet that I did last year. I need to plan out my meals and have a plan to lose weight. I think I am pretty active with day to day things I do ...it is more about the eating...the mindless snacking and bad choices and big portion sizes.

Well, need to go and deal with the children...

Hi everybody!

Ok confession time...I dont know what's wrong with me. I finally get off that plateau so Fri and Sat I go and eat too much!!! I'm always sooo mad afterwards so why do it in the first place?:?: Back on track as of Sunday. Walked 2 1/2 miles yesterday, did 10 min on my Air Walker, had healthy small meals and did well with eating today also. Did my workout tape before work this morning so hoping I didnt do too much damage Fri and Sat.

Taiwan, hope you had a safe trip travelling today. Glad that you've been able to find access to a computer so far. I keep meaning to send you my home address like you asked but cant remember by the time I finish posting. I'll try to do that soon.

Speaking of that, I'd like to have everyone's home addresses if it's ok with all of you. It would be fun to send a note or card on special occasions or just to say hello sometimes.

Cyan, if you have to have a craving, at least it's a healthy one!;) Is this interesting new guy the one who gave you the appliance recently? (cant remember what it was...refrigerator or washer or dryer maybe?)

Debee, glad you were able to drop in again. We missed ya. Cant wait to hear if you got the show. Christmas is still almost 2 months from now so there's time for a loss if we all get to work on it. I'm like you, my eating kinda erases my exercise at times.:lol: Dont give up...I know we can do it if we just set our minds to it!! I think that's over half the battle.

Newie, today started a new week. I hope this one is a good one for you and your family. :) How did the meeting at the bank go?

Ok, I'm going to TRY to motivate myself to get off here and hop on that Air Walker again. I'll let you know tomorrow if I made it.

Miki

Hi, everyone--thanks for all of your encouragement and prayers. I have faith that hubby will find a job that's right for him, hopefully soon. Yesterday he applied for unemployment benefits--he's entitled to 6 months--it's almost as much as he was bringing home a week, thank God. The meeting at the bank went well--it felt weird, though, like we had this secret. We only have to go back Thursday afternoon and sign one more paper--after a three-day waiting period, and then all is done. I hated not sharing with our friend, but we really need this arrangement. It will be so much easier managing with one payment rather than five, which is what we had before. And we know that there will be no way we will miss a payment--we have funds that can be drawn upon if needed. And we will be able to pay off all we owe so much faster this way.

I had the first grade class for three hours yesterday while the teacher went to the doctor. It was considerably more difficult than I had thought it would be, especially management of the children; however, I did walk in cold, without a clue as to what was going on or what this teacher's schedule or style was. I did math, handwriting, art, and daily oral language. I realized that there is really one word that sums it all up--organization. I also saw that the attention span of the children was extremely short, and that they could not listen for more than maybe 15 or 20 minutes before needing a different activity. I also need a very structured, set routine, which I will plan. This teacher doesn't have that. The order in which she teaches things is different every day, she said to me. I think the kids will benefit in this situation from a set schedule too. I will officially start November 26 and work for about three months. I received a summons for jury duty scheduled for November 21; I'm on standby for a one-case, one jury system. Hopefully I'll get out of there in one day.

Hubby was very sad yesterday--I think he is afraid he won't find a new job. It doesn't help that his brother and my brother are also out of work at this time. I keep telling him he can't think about failure or what if's--that he has to keep his sight on and expect to get what he wants (a new job) and accept nothing else (not finding one) as an option.

I'm continuing my walking schedule. It relieves stress that I feel in the morning. It's a great prayer time too. It's gotten quite cold, though, not out of the 40's yesterday. I don't care, though. I'm going to keep it up.

Boy, Cyan, you sure are a fish girl. I can eat it from time to time, but I've never craved it before in my life.

Miki, your experience with eating too much after leaving a plateau reminds me of something I've done a few times in the past. It's almost as if a weight loss for me deserved some kind of eating reward. I would then overeat and then sometimes undo my success. I don't know if I couldn't handle it or what.

Debee, maybe I can see that show you might be on at my mother-in-law's house. She has cable. I'll keep my eyes on your posts to see if and when you are on the show.

Lisa, Taiwan, and Reina--I hope all is going well with you.

Time for me to go--kids have to go to school. Bye for now.

Hey Girls
 

Newie..hang in there...things work out for the best and hubby will be back on his feet. I love fish...shellfish and seafood in particular...my lunch is a tuna sandwich:lol: yum yum

Miki you are the most determined lady I know...good on you...no, its not the guy who gave me the free dryer..although a very nice gentleman at that. I am not sure if this new guy likes me..although he has invited me over to a few dinner parties...group dinner parties which was very nice of him. He enjoys gourmet cooking...but I am not sure if I like him more than a friend..too early to tell. I will probably invite him out to a movie to see what I feel and of course if he likes me too...but its all too early and I am not in a rush...not at all.

Hey Debee...Miki is right...its not too late...you can still lose some weight by christmas...stay motivated and how cool...your home is being featured on a show...really cool.

Hey Taiwan...all that travelling...stay strong and positive...I send you a hug

Cyan

Hi ladies...

I didnt have to work again today which makes not eating harder since I'm here and food is readily accessible so I had several smaller meals throughout the day instead of the normal 3. For breakfast, I had oatmeal. About 2 hrs later, I had sugar free, fat free orange jello, for lunch Campbells Select Chicken Noodle soup, hour or so later some lettuce with Fat Free dressing. I had a late afternoon snack of string cheese then tonite altho I fried chicken strips and fixed mashed potatoes for my family, for myself I fixed stir fry veggies with a little chicken. I will probably have some kind of healthy snack sometime before bedtime but I think my calories will still be pretty low for the day. (my snack will probably be sugar free, fat free, white chocolate instant pudding with a little whipped cream..yummmy!)

I did end up getting on that Air Walker last and went for 30 min. I did that again this morning early then this afternoon, my sis and I walked 3 miles. I'm going to have to break down and get myself some new walking shoes before I walk again. The ones I've been wearing are completely worn down. There is practically no sole left from being shaved off by the pavement.:lol:

How is everyone else doing in the exercise and eating departments? Is everyone getting hyped up to try to make some goals by Christmas?? Come on everybody...We can do it!!!

Well, now that it gets dark earlier, the time slips up on us, and kids end up being here after dark and need a ride home so they dont have to walk in the dark. Better run as duty calls.

Miki

Hi ladies,

I just got home from a night course that I am taking in landscape design at Temple university. I love to garden and thought that this might be a good mid-life career switch once both kids are in school full-time.

Miki, I know how easy it is to reward our weight loss with over eating...I do it all the time...a little bite of chocolate that turns into a big bar.

Cyan, I think you should invite the new guy to lunch or drinks it is too hard at the movies to really talk to someone.

Newie, take it one day at a time. Sounds like the first grade experience was well... quite an experience!

I would also like to have everyones home address so I can send out photo Christmas cards.

I am so tired and will start to munch if I don't eat to bed soon.

Hi, ladies--had a busy day yesterday with hubby--helped him with cover letters, job searching online, he made some follow-up calls. Less busy today, but still calls to make, things to search out. I will do lots of work in the house today. We're taking it one day at a time--only way possible. I go through different feelings at different times--up, down, hopeful, worried, tired, sad, peaceful--ate 5 malted milk balls and some cheese puffs yesterday--but overall I am eating less than ever--not hungry lots of the time. I didn't walk yesterday because I was helping hubby get into a home routine. Today I will get out. I think teaching first grade will be a good experience once I get organized. When I was there Monday, three teachers at the school who were also my children's former teachers AND my customers at the teacher supply store where I worked approached me, welcomed me, and offered me any help I might need. How wonderful to have such caring people around me! Well, got to go. Have to make school lunches. More later.

Hello Ladies
 

Another crazy day here at the office...more projects upon more projects...but I shouldnt complain and I am grateful to have a job in the career I studied....web business is a dog eat dog kinda world...I am sure Newie, your husband could relate.
You have to create amazing designs on the spot and have it done yesterday:tired: very tiring...thankgoodness we are nearing the weekend

Hey..guess where my boss is taking us for christmas dinner...YUP A sushi restaurant...I've got him hooked...and all our employees like sushi...so yippeeeeeeee:T :cp: We are going to Takara's or sushi kaoboi

Gosh, I have been craving smoked salmon again..I might have to go buy some tonight...geesh...whats up with me lately...I was talking on the phone yesterday and I was thinking smooooooked sallllllmon...so I might just have to go get some.

I havent been exercising often enough..I need to have a word with myself and get serious about this...way to lenient..oh great..I have Dr phil's ad here to my left of my monitor telling me to get real...I guess its a sign...

Hey Miki...I'm in for the christmas challenge...shoot

ok gotta go

Cyan

Hi ladies,

Well, today I started out great..I had oatmeal for breakfast, brought our cat buttercup in for Jake's show and tell (they needed to bring in a furry friend for F week) Jake was the only kid that brought in a live animal instead of a stuffed one.

Well, it was raining most of the day and I started getting into a depressed mood so I went shopping and instead of being motivated to clean up the house and get ready for Jimmy's party on Sunday, I ate a big lunch and just wasted the day! So of course, I got more upset and ate chocolate. Now I decided to have a glass of wine and decide how I am going to get back on track with my eating and exercise.

Every morning I start out with great intentions and then ....I blow it by 3p.m. I know I need a rountine but I am feeling too stressed to take the time to start one. OK I'll stop complaining.

I hope every one is up for that Christmas challenge and we can motivate each other.

By the way I read last night's post and I must have been very tired ..." when I said eat to bed" I guess you all knew what I meant.

Well, today was fine with the exercise but not quite as good as yesterday in the eating department. I am going to try to put everything in Fitday shortly to see how many calories I ate. None of it was bad for me, it was just several different little things all day. Walked 30 min on AirWalker again then did my tape tonite. I think my goal for Christmas is going to be to lose 10 lbs by then. That should not be unreasonable for 2 months. Of course on the other hand, it would also be pretty amazing since I havent lost that much in the last 6 months.:dizzy: Anyone else have goals set? What are you going to do?

Debee, I laughed at what you said last nite but I understood it.:lol: I think it's cool you're taking a landscaping class. Wish you lived closer to me! I could use help in that department.

Newie, must feel good to know there are people at work willing to help out and make you feel at home. I know you'll do great once you get things organized. Did you get a walk in today?

Cyan, good for you getting your boss hooked on something healthy! Will make it easier for you to stay on track at the work Christmas party. If I'm not mistaken, I hear your stationery bike calling, Missy.;) :D

I hope Taiwan, Lisa, and Reina are having a good week. ( as well as the rest of you of course:) ) The week is halfway gone which means it's almost Friday again....I know Cyan is getting excited.:D

Talk to ya'll again soon...

Miki

Hi ladies,

Well I got a call from the producer of the tv show tonight and they are going to use me and the house! Now I am really stressed out...they are going to film between the 11/10 and the 14th. That means I need to clean up 10 years of dirt around the house, 10 pounds of fat off my body and 10 years of wrinkles off my face...oh well I have always said I work best under deadline!

So here's my plan for the next 14 days...

1. Lose ten pounds.....Eat a healthy breakfast, drink plenty of water, have a good healthy lunch , the same one every day maybe my turkey in a pita, no snacks, no chocolate, and every sunny day take a walk. Hopefully I can try to lose 5 pounds a week.

2. Clean the house...doing some heavy scrubbing will help me burn calories and if I just clean up the cllutter in the play room, and kids rooms, I will be in pretty good shape. I will just hid the rest of the stuff under the beds.

3. Lose the wrinkles...well I guess I hope they just will have good lightging and make-up.

I'll keep you updated...

Hi, everyone--I'm up early today--I am not sleeping well--sometimes I have trouble going to sleep and always wake up early. I've been down the last couple of days about hubby's situation. I know it's really too soon to get like that, and we are so blessed in so many ways. I guess I get scared. It reminds me of my growing up years. My dad was an alcoholic and drank up much of the money. He also had trouble keeping a job till he got in with the post office. My mom used to share her money woes with me (not too good to do with a kid, I think), so I've always worried about stuff like that--feeling safe and secure has always been a big deal with me. I'm also a person who likes to be in control--makes me feel safe. And this situation is one where I have very little control. I can help hubby--with resumes, cover letters (that's where my English major helps out), other types of support--but I can't make people return his follow-up calls or contact him after he has sent his stuff out. I feel like I mostly just have to wait, and I'm not very good at that. I know I feel better when I am busy at my own stuff--last night I spent a couple of hours finishing the sponge painting on Veronica's bedroom--very pretty--and believe me, there is plenty for me to do, especially with carpeting coming next Wednesday and the first grade job beginning in 4 weeks. I think I need to get busy and stop worrying. I also think I need to put my faith into better action. I just wish it were all over and worked out RIGHT NOW!!! Anyway, thanks for listening, everybody; I'll try not to burden everyone with all this too much.

I did get my walk in yesterday--it felt wonderful. I have also lost one more pound. I'm now at 155 1/2 pounds. I ate some more cheese puffs--a few with lunch, and some more in the middle of the night. I hope I don't have to keep them out of the house. The last thing I need to do is to stress eat. I think that will be my Christmas goal--to avoid stress eating on a daily basis and to keep up my exercise routine. Anything more concrete is just too much for me right now.

Debee, let us all know when your house will be on TV. I'll try to get to mother-in-law's to see it. Cyan, your love of fish reminded me that the other night I ate baked salmon for dinner--first time I had salmon other than out of a can. It tasted good, but I wouldn't want it regularly. I skipped the skin--yuck! Miki, thanks for your encouragement--I feel I'll do well too. I've already got some things in mind that I want to do, especially routinewise.

Well, I've got to go--almost time to get the first girl up to shower. Today at school is Halloween party. Tomorrow there is no school--some kind of teacher conference. Both girls have parties to go to--Veronica, her first boy-girl party with most of her classmates at one boy's house--from 7-10 p.m., and Kathleen, a sleep-over, trick or treat, out for pizza event sponsored by mom of one of her friends who just lost her grandfather. I am so grateful they have something fun to do. More later.

I could smell friday
 

So last night I had my smoked salmon on cream cheese on a bagel topped with onions...oooooooooooo sooooooo gooooooood

infact ...I am having it again for lunch:^:

Hey Miki..you are right...I hear my bike calling...its getting mad and loud so I best go use it tonight...thanks for reminding me.

well I am drawing a blank so I will post back later or tomorrow and let you know how i am doing with the exercising.

later

Cyan

Hi ladies,

Today was a pretty good day...Jake had a playdate and while he was with his friend I was able to clean up the dining room. I also did 5 loads of wash and cleaned some of the wood work.

I skipped breakfast and for lunch took the kids to KFC. I had a flour torilla with chicken, lettuce and tomato and only ate half. I was really good this afternoon and did not have my afternoon chocolate fix. Dinner tonight is filet mignon with onion, peppers and rice. I am just going to have a small portion.

Hopefully, tonight I can try to clean up the play room although I love watching the show extreme makeover...it's about real people who get made over...everything, liposuction, nosejobs, breast implants, its on ABC at 8p.m.

Miki, I agree with you it helps to get on fitday and record what you eat every day.

Cyan, is there a Costco near you ? They have great salmon there.

Newie, just take it one day at a time. Don't worry things will work out.

Hello everyone! :)

Debee, I am so excited about the show! Be sure to let us know all the details as soon as you find out everything. I love that extreme makeover show also. I keep trying to get someone to write and tell them I need help!:lol: I could keep them busy for sure.

Cyan, can you believe I've never tried smoked salmon?? Maybe I'll try it soon and love it as much as hummus.:D

Newie, you're never a burden to us. Vent all you want--that's what we're here for. And we'll be here too when you come to tell us about that great new job dh is going to get soon.:)

I ate too much tonite and didnt exercise but I havent missed a day in a long time and just felt like a break. I'll be back to it tomorrow, I promise.

Bye for now..

Miki

Hi, everyone--I am feeling pretty good this morning. Yesterday was a good food and exercise day--also better mentally. Thanks for all your support, especially your comments, Debee and Miki.

I completely finished Veronica's room with the sponge painting. It is so beautiful--I wish I could send a picture! We live in an old cape cod style house, and the area is upstairs. The ceilings are slanted with a short, flat area in the middle. The background is white--dawning the actual color--white with a rose cast. Over it I sponged with pink and blue. Where wall meets ceiling, I painted a 6-inch blue border which I sponged with stars of three different sizes in three different colors--pink from the wall, a darker pink, and a darker blue. The ceilings are still white. Carpet is coming Wednesday. It is pink. I've done three more rooms upstairs in similar ways over the past three years--Kathleen's room is sponged pink, mint green, and white--with flowers in her mint green border and darker pink accents on border. (I still have to finish the accents--rather tedious handpainting.) The bath is white sponged in pink with a white vinyl floor and picket fence/flower border around top. The final room (my craft/sewing room) isn't sponged (some calmness is needed somewhere) but painted a paler pink with pink border sponged with hearts of various sizes and coordinating pinks--hearts are my favorite symbols in the world. It's definitely a girls' place. Even my husband is impressed with the look of the area, though he always worried when I started on a room because I was never quite sure how it would turn out in the end.

Last night we signed the final papers on our home equity line of credit. Today our mortgage will be paid off, and money to pay for the carpet has been released. That is one burden off my heart--someday, when hubby has a new job and is well established in it, we will tell our banker friend what we went through as this arrangement was finalized. At least now there will be only one bill each month, which I know we can manage. Thank You, Lord. Another blessing is this: As I mentioned yesterday, I grew up with money always being a tight thing. My husband always had plenty of money, so never felt the need to watch the pennies. In our 14 years of marriage, that difference has always been an issue, though we never spent uncontrollably or excessively. I always had trouble getting him to wait to buy things, and somehow it was easier for me to be more like him than to fight him. He told me last night that he understands now what being frugal is about--that I have taught him that. I am so glad. I have expressed to him my determination never to be in debt again, and he agrees with me. I don't think his cooperation will be too difficult to get in the future.

Yesterday hubby got a call from one of the companies he followed up on. Unfortunately he was taking his mother to dr. so he wasn't home, but man gave me instructions when to call back today. He also wrote a letter to another company he is interested in working for--it was a beautiful letter, must have been divinely inspired. Today he wants to write one to another company and follow up on another application. I feel blessed by how he is handling each day--very different than he has ever been in this situation--I am praying so much--I think my prayers are being answered. Also, yesterday I found a job loss support site with a forum where there was a thread for spouses of unemployed people. It was very helpful, and I will return to it regularly. Also, I was drawn to a spiritual book my mother-in-law gave me several years ago that I could not ever get interested in before. I had met the author, the late Catholic Archbishop Cardinal Joseph Bernadine of Chicago, so I knew whose ideas I would be reading. When I started this book yesterday, I was amazed at how suddenly easy it was for me to read. The title was The Gift of Peace, and it was about how to deal with the adversity and pain of life through a Catholic Christian perspective. It was his spiritual memoir of the last three years of his life. If any of you heard in the papers, he was falsely accused of sexual abuse and then contracted terminal pancreatic cancer, from which he died in November 1996. He was someone who touched me during his life, and I was deeply touched and inspired by his book. By the way, I finished it early this morning. It gave me peace. The ideas and faith in that book will be very helpful to me for the rest of my life.

Well, I think it's time for me to go. I have to finish the rest of my on-line stuff. We try not to tie up the phone lines during the day. Have a happy Halloween, everyone. I'll be in touch soon.

Happy Halloween
 

Hey Ladies...its friiiiiiiiiiiiiday...need I say more?

I might be going to a halloween party if I feel up to it...but tomorrow I am going to a thai restaurant and a movie with the architect guy I told you about earlier....I also invited our mutual friend too...like I said earlier, I am in no rush.

Hey Debbie...Yes there is a costco...several..and you read my mind...I am off to Costco this weekend to get me some smoked salmon in industrial quantities....:lol:

Hey Miki you must must try smoked salmon...try it on a bagel with light cream cheese , onions and capers...devine!! Or my favorite...you start off with a lettuce leaf, you put a thinly sliced salmon layer, you add feta cheese and stuffed olives and then you roll it up all into a bite size...maybe two bite sizes ....I tell you...it is sooooooooooo good...you will love it. They make great hoeur-d'oeuvres for any ocaision and they are atkins and soutbeach diet friendly. I use light feta cheese


It looks like this saturday in particular is gonna filled with restaurant meals...in the morning I am going to a breakfast brunch...then I am going to a friend's house to paint her face for halloween...its been a tradition of ours for the last three years...she is this really cool older lady and I think the world of her and her husband...who is in his late 60's and has survived lung cancer and a heart attack...he just keeps on ticking. Then I will go to dinner and a movie with Anita and Richard...geez...what a day.

Well looks like I am off to start my day at work. Have a great day and weekend everyone

Cyan

Hello Ladies!

I just couldn't stay away!!! I so miss you all and I was given one of the biggest incentives this month, and now the questions is, Can I DO IT???????????????

Congrats to you all who are losing and breaking that plateau!! How incredible is that feeling??????

Lisa, congrats on the new job! I hope all goes well with the hernia situation!

Well, I have to tell someone, I have received confirmation that I will be celebrating Xmas this year with my half-brother and his family. I haven't seen him since I was 6 years old.... I am so excited that I immediately have given myself a goal of, I know, I have heard myself say this before, but I have to give myself something to go on.
I want to lost 10 - 15lbs by Xmas! I need to feel good about myself when I see him. I don't want to be self-conscious about myself...So after this big candy day, I am starting... I don't know what, I think I will start with a cleansing and then work from there. I always need to jumpstart my body with a shock treatment. Low calorie diet then change as needed.

I want to thank you all for being there when I am down. You don't know how much that means to me. I have had some massive ups & downs this year, and you all stood by me.

Wish me luck, I really want this to be a great christmas, so I am going to get tough on myself to make sure it is...

Have a great Halloween Ladies.....

Reina

Reina!!! So glad you're back with us!!:cp: I meant to send you an e-card to let you know how much we miss you but as usual my good intentions didnt get carried thru...sorry,... but I really have thought of you often. :) We will work on this together...my goal also is to lose at least 10 lbs by Christmas. That is not an unreasonable goal so let's do it!! :) How cool that you'll be seeing your brother again after so long!

Newie, sounds like things are looking up already. I'm really glad to hear it. Just keep your faith...things are going to work out fine, I just know it. Your house sounds beautiful.

Cyan, extra busy weekend for you. Have fun and fill us in on all the details. Sounds like lots of fun.

Exercised plenty today but still a little high on calories. I gotta get rid of this Halloween candy! ( and Not by eating it):lol:

Well, gotta run. Both kids are gone tonite so hubby and I have the house to ourselves. Hooray!;)

Have a great weekend, all.

MIKI

hello ladies
 

ahh its monday again! I had a nice weekend...saturday was busy and the dinner movie thing with my new friend went very well...the more time I spend with him, the more I like him...so thats coming along nicely.

I am doing well in the food department not counting saturday...I went to a breakfast buffet and then a thai dinner...no lunch! thank goodness for that.

Hey Reina...glad you are back with us and ready to shed some pounds! Its great having a goal to work towards. I am planning on losing 10 pounds by christmas...as usual...I am still plugging away at it.

Newie..hope things are going well with the job search.

Debbie...how are you doing? Let us know

Lisa...how are you doing...the pregnancy?

Miki..did you enjoy having the house to yourself?

hey Taiwan..hope things are going well for you too.

Well its monday so I best get back to work

later

Cyan

Hi ladies,

Reina, I am so glad you are back! You were one of the main reasons I got motivated last year to lose weight. We can both help each other get motivated. remeber everytime you want a bite of something off your diet just think of all of us sitting on your shoulder. Take a moment and try to think of what each of us would say to you....you might be able to find the willpower to just put it down.

Cyan, sounds like this guy make just be a keeper! What are you going to do for a follow-up? Why don't you invite him to your house for dinner? Maybe an indoor winter picnic...some wine, a fire and of course sushi!

Newie, it sounds like tolove to decoate as much as I do! I am always redoing something in the house. My last big project was our art deco movie themed basement.

Lisa, how all is well and you don't have morning sickness.

Miki, did you get rid of the candy...my kids counted theirs last night..Jimmy got 162 pieces and Jake 135. I have almost three pieces of candy in my house!!!

Something's burning....post later

Hi,

Ok I'm back...

Some pasta just burned.

I just read my previous post..I really need to proofread before submitting or at least not try to type and do ten other things at the same time!


Halloween was great we went trick or treating with the neighbors and then went to a friends house for more trick and treating...one house in her neighborhood rents a cotton candy machine and gives it out as a treat...too much candy and wine.

Sunday was a beautiful day and I did lawn work and cleaned the shed. Jimmy's boys night out party was at 5 p.m. and I had a group of his friends over to watch ghostbusters and have pizza. Afterwards we had a mini firework display.