[michellez]

Hi everyone --

Was busy yesterday working on a freelance website job, which is what I should be doing now.

Patty, I'm glad to hear that Blackie's recovery is going well. I have a dog that barks to be picked up and put into bed also. Funny thing is...she can get on the bed just fine by herself if I bring her favorite toy or a treat into the bed. Sorry to hear about your job situation. It must be especially hard after being there for so long. Is your last day July 1st (or 90 days after that).

Personally, I have a hard time believing all the news about an economic recovery that's supposedly happening. It's sure not happening with anyone I know.

Barb, it's great to "meet" you. Sounds like you're doing great with the Slimfast program and with Curves....thanks for the Curves info btw.

A big hello to everyone else. I hope you're all enjoying your weekend!

[1day@atime]

Good Morning!

Just a quick hello, I really need to be getting ready for church, slept in late today.

Mitchellez - My last day with my company is June 30th, then the new company takes over, we're only guaranteed a job for 90 days. We know that the new company will have to have layoffs, but i'm just hoping it not me. We will continue to work in the same location, same office for now, eventually they will move. You know we been having layoffs for the last 2 years, so i'm somewhat prepared for it, yet when it happens I won't be.

Nita, Mooz, Thin, Cat, Hal, Barb - Hope to hear from you all soon.

ps.. My goal for this week is to get on the treadmill 3 days this week. I need your help, remind me, ask me aobut my weekly goal. I have got to do this. I had a gain at Ww & I need to get back on track. My goal for the month of June was 5 lbs. so far i've gained this month.

[mooz49]

Hi chickies and WELCOME Barb ans WELCOME BACK Michelle


Just a quick call from Paul's computer. No new computer yet but next weekend I should definately get it!! Anyway I should have Paul's as he goes to Camp America next weekend.
Sinead is now in Sydney and is revovering from the long journey. I'm sure they will have a great time. Orla is in Dublin - she was at the Red Hot Chilli Peppers concert last night. Paul was at it also but he came home this morning.
Eating is just OK but walking is good ............ but then it never was a problem for me to go walking ............ it is just the "eating too much" that is tha problem. Some day i will get it right and roll on that day!!
Right I must go and do some painting .................. have a great Sunday all.



Just one

When it seems that you're overwhelmed with problems, pick just one and go to work on it. Suddenly the momentum will shift in your favor.
When you feel helpless to make a difference, stand up and take just one small step forward. And you'll discover that you can indeed make a difference.

You're not going to solve all the problems of the world before bedtime. Yet you can take many positive, productive steps in that direction.

It sure beats sitting around worrying about how bad things are. All the worrying in the world cannot equal the power of just one positive step.

Once you take that one step forward, you'll find yourself wanting to do it again and again. Just one step can ignite your passion, and there's no telling how far that will take you.

When you feel that there's no use in making the effort, that's precisely the time when even the smallest effort can make an enormous positive difference. Commit to taking just one step, and feel how great it can be.

-- Ralph Marston

[barb64]

Pretty good day today- went out walking earlier at the track. Gradually increasing the number of laps to walk- up to 9 now. That's about 2-1/4 miles. I never thought I'd do that willingly! Tomorrow is my day for Curves. Feel a little sleepy today- our new kitten was hopping all around our bedroom last nite! He leaps from knocking stuff off the dresser, to fooling around with the blinds, to the bed where he bumps into my face, purring like mad for cuddles. He is so cute! Like all babies, this too shall pass.

Mooz- You are amazing keeping up with things considering your computer problems- that is so frustrating! I know how happy you'll be once you're up and running again. What type of painting are you doing?

Patty- Do you have particular days you expect to do the treadmill- Or are you being flexible about it? I know once you really get going with it, you will see a difference! I feel so bad about your work situation...at least when I was let go, there was no long wait for it, it just happened. It's been about a month now, and things are pretty stable. The worst thing, really is missing my friends- I was there 15 years. The dieting and exercise are really helping me to have a sense of control. I have a job interview Tuesday, so we'll see what happens! Your little Blackie sounds like a doll! That's great your sister can help you with the cost of the surgery- vet care is so expensive- but what can you do? I've considered, at various times, getting pet health insurance. I always put it off because there is always some financial crisis going on around here! It would be nice to save money though, when these emergencies happen with our babies!

Michelle-Yeah, I know what you mean about the economic recovery...still waiting for mine too. I have learned to become alot thriftier, though. Maybe if I can keep some of the habits I've found to save money once I'm working again, I will feel recovered! You know, it's funny- a few days after I gave you the price info- there was a notice up at Curves about the monthly fee going up $10 (luckily our location isn't doing it, for now). Just so you know if you do call anywhere. I just found out, too, that they have their own diet. I have no plans to do that, though- I am really happy with the Slimfast and I'm sure the prices on the Curves stuff would be unaffordable.

That's all for now- really have to vacuum and take chicken out for supper. Enjoy the rest of your Sunday!

[Catlover777]

Just a quick check. My son fixed some hardward on my computer, and reloaded some of the software--and it doesn't work!! darnit. I am using DH's but it is a pain.

Michelle--nice to have you back. Best to all--
Catlover

[HalGal]

Hey Movers and Losers!

Another weekend, and looks like week of hot and steamy days - only to be followed by threatenting thunderstorms. Oh well. I do enjoy all four seasons, just some more than others.

I began my lessons/reading for my summer course "Data and Measurements". I think Bush should send some of his CIA/FBI analysts to my class. Did you all hear the report indicating terrorism is at an all time 20 year low? Colin Powell readily admits 'There has been a mistake." My question, is how could this huge of a mistake make it to publication? I honestly am even having a difficult time watching the news these days - it scares me.

I went to the local farmers market last Thursday. I stocked up on fresh green beans, tomatoes, cucumbers and some spices. This would be my favorite part of this season............!


Barb: I have a friend that goes to Curves because she travels a lot, and she can use the facilities in any state/city. She has lost over 100 pounds and is working on maintenance close to 6 months.

Mooz: Nothing like trying to keep in touch without a computer. I remember when my system was out for repairs - no fun. Thanks for trying and sending us your Masten stories. I like this one, 'Just One'. I think I need to focus on just one thing, at at time. I have so much I want to accomplish - and it is without any doubt overwhelming. Good luck on painting, and keep posting pics when possible!


OneDay: Good goal, with the treadmill!! You can do it. A few years ago I was going to the gym and using the treadmill and circuit weights. I am so heavy I began having trouble with my ankles and hips from walking! My doctor told me to go to non weight bearing exercise - which is where I am stuck now. STUCK. I use to take tapes (a friend made me many of these) and listen to them, and just go and go for approxmately 30 to 45 minutes. I saw not only a big difference in my cholesterol levels (dropped 18 points over 6 months) but my pant size!! Oddly, I did not lose a lot of weight only a few pounds. I don't think my doctor believed I had been exercising until he read my lab reports and saw the drop in cholesterol. Anyway... treadmill is a good thing. I share a duplex and the retired couple next to me began using a Diet Center plan about 4 months ago. They built an exercise room on the rear deck (enclosed and air conditioned) and I hear that tread mill running both 7A and 10P. I am jealous - I remember well how I felt after walking on that thing!!! Also, this will take stress away as you deal with your work situation. Sending all good thoughts your way!!!!


CatLover: You have a way of making me smile. I always enjoy what you have to say - no matter what it is - happy or sad - your posts always have an element of ah ha! Seems we have all had our share of computer problems lately - no fun. Do you follow a yoga tape, or do you go to a club? As I am getting older, I know yoga and/or a pilates routine would benefit me greatly. Now to lose enough weight so I can get up and down off the floor! You know this is the time of year to really enjoy the harvests and experiement. Maybe we can share ways we are preparing fruits, veggies and whole grain foods. Hey, I tried a new low carb pasta from the DreamFields folks. It is not an Adkins product so does not cost your first born! I tried the linguini and yum. I steamed shrimp and made a dressing from olive oil and spices. I read yet another article on the healthful benefits of brocolli. Poor Bush, Sr.!

Michellez: A BIG welcome back to our board, altho I agree, we knew what was up - and were really just waiting for your return! So glad to have you back. I just finished reading Frances Kuffell's book, Passing For Thin. She lost 188 pounds by dieting alone - no exercise! She is now exercising, but has suffered 2 relapses. WE all do. It is a GREAT inspirational book for those of us with food issues. I got my book from Amazon.com. Sorry to hear your husband is looking for work. What kind of job did he get? I know I was out of touch too much and don't remember what kind of work he found? I do remember a very cool compter repair web page you guys made. My friend that I told you about made all of my upgrades and repairs to my system. I told him about your husband and he was interested in preparing a website also!!! You will have to post some house pics when you can. I know that has to be exciting. What economic recovery? More data that needs to be adjusted - my family members in northern Indiana have been struggling with emloyment for the last 2 years. Factorys close a shift, go to 4 day weeks, go to forced 7 day weeks, close again. No fun, as insurance options change and life surprises are difficult to deal with. I agree, what economic recovery is Bush speaking up? His with the recent oil prices?

I hope both Thin and Nita are enjoying your summer travels - we miss you!!

Here is a link to an article on exercise from WW:

http://www.weightwatchers.com/util/a...=Fitness+Ideas

Good luck MOVING and LOSING this week!!! Have an OP day...!!!!

[1day@atime]

Hello Ladies,

Barb - I seem to do best as far as working out in the morning, around 5am. The hard part is getting up. Once I do, I really enjoy it & look forward to it. Last year I was walking with my friends & I would meet them at 5am, I ended up hurting my knee & stopped. This morning I was tired from the weekend, so I didn't get up. I'm planning on working out this evening.

Mooz - Where is Paul coming to? I haven't heard of Camp America? Are you still linedancing? How are the picture sales going?

Hal - I'm with you on the rains and thunderstorms. We had alot of floods and down powerlines about two weeks ago. I think something like 500,00 people lost power. Besides that Blackie does not like storms so he alerts me when their coming though. I too am trying to eat more veggies & fruits. If you have any simple and easy recipes please pass them this way.

Cat - Hope your computer gets fixed soon.

We'll I need to run. I'm going to take a 20 minute walk here at lunch time. I am determined to have a loss this week.

[Catlover777]

I am so delighted--my computer is fixed! DS doesn't actually know what he did that finally fixed it, but it's nice to have it back.

Hal--I take yoga classes from a teacher who works with one or at most two people at a time. She is an RN with a specialty in dealing with pain, and I am so lucky to have her. Honestly, I can't recommend learning yoga from a tape. They can be fun once you have the basic ideas and know how to avoid what might hurt you.

Group classes can be good, but you want (at least to start) a small class with a knowledgeable teacher. In these huge classes, sometimes people get hurt just falling on each other.

I am so frustrated with my foot, and I know I've gained wt back. I did try one new thing. I realized that on my new schedule I'm not hungry at the tie of my second breatk--and then I am hungry later. So today I just had a cut of decaf (I suppose decaf green tea or something would be better), and then I had a snack when I came home and kept it bounds.

Well, DH and DS are working late, so I'd better walk the dogs before it rains.

Sorry for those I missed.

cCatlover

[Nita]

Hi Everyone,

A special "welcome back" to Michelle, however, I agree with the other ladies, you were never gone from our minds! I have come back from a two-week vacation and did pretty well in regards to my eating until the last couple of days. My grandkids just had to go to McDonald's and I could have had one of their salads but I opted not to. When I came home today one of the first things I did was weigh on my scale and it looks as though I gained 5 to 6 pounds. So tomorrow is D-day and I will begain again.

Barb -- Welcome, so nice of you to join us--I really enjoy your posts, they are very interesting, and believe me, you have definitely picked the right group. I must admit I still haven't finished Passing for Thin or have I finished Dr. Phil's book. I just seem to be too busy having fun! Can you believe that a 69 year-old woman having the time of her life!

My vacation was really great but I am so happy to be back home. Michelle, I just thought of something perhaps you can help me with--when I was at my daughters I downloaded some pictures from my digital camera and they are saved in a folder on her computer. I thought I was sending copies to my computer, however, only one picture came across. Is there something she can do to get those pictures to me? No rush--whenever you get a chance!

Well I have been up since 2:00 a.m. my time so I had better get to bed--I can hardly wait to sleep in my own bed!!

HalGal, Catlover, 1Day and, of course, Mooz, thanks again for all your wonderful support!

Anita
Take care

[barb64]

Hi Girls! Just a quick check in- had a really good interview yesterday with a potential employer. Have to return a call today to another I've been playing phone tag with. At least things are beginning to happen- I really miss working! Food good- yesterday was day off from exercise kind of by default- will go to gym today, I promise!
I hope everyone is well and I'll talk to ya later!

[1day@atime]

Hello Ladies,
Things have been real busy here at work. Co-worker is on vacation for past two weeks, having to do his job and mine. I did get on the treadmill on monday night though & I will again tonight. I have been watching Sex & the City which is now on regular cable TV, so I told myself I can't watch that show unless I get on the treadmill. Food has been so-so, as you can tell i am not journaling. I need to get back to that.

Barb - saying a prayer that your job comes though. What type of work is it?

Cat- I would really like to take a yoga class. Their is a new gym that is opening up next month & I think I will look and see what classes they offer.

Nita - I"m sure your DH was glad to have you home. Like you said it's time to get back on track. I know you can lose the few pounds that you gained.

Thin, Mooz, Mitchellez, Hal - Hope you all are doing ok... Hope to hear from you guys soon...

[Nita]

Hi Everyone,

Just a quick note to let you know I am thinking about all of you. It's really great to have such good friends as you. I did good on my program this morning but blew it at supper this evening. Oh well, tomorrow is another day and at least I am done working until next Wednesday and then only two more Thursdays at the lawyer's office and I will be done until October. Hopefully they will find someone by that time.

I can hardly wait to go bowling tomorrow. Bowling is one of the things I missed most on my vacation, except for my DH and my dog, Tiffany!

I will write soon again.
Anita

[mooz49]

Posting from Paul's computer. I think he did say he was cancelling AOL but so far I can get on to the net. Should have my own computer sorted this weekend ............ mind you I thought that for a few weekends before!! Paul is in London and heads off to Philadelphia tomorrow for Camp America www.varietyphila.org Sinead is having a ball in Sydney - she says the people are really lovely and so friendly.
I am trying to get this house sorted and there is a lot to do ...... where does all the junk come from!! I am such a hoarder and my kids are no better! This summer, when Orla's exams are over we are giving the whole house a good going over and DH had better not stand too long in one place or he might get thrown out too!! ........... only kiddin'. He will be busy as he is for putting up a sunlounge at the front of the house.
I had a bad, bad bad eating day on Wednesdayand yesterday. It all started with one of Orla's classmates giving her a box of chocolates to give to me because he had needed an easel to do some of his A Level art on and I had lent mine to him for a few weeks. I was not going to eat any but then I thought that it's not often I get given a box of chocolates so with Paul and Orla's help we quickly cleared the box. Later on we had some cakes with our tea at the final Art Class before the summer break. Then it continued yesterday when I started eating chocolate biscuits and I had far too many. By the end of the day I had a sore head and felt miserable and I blame the bad choice of food for that. The good news is that today I have had NO CRAP and I intend to try and keep this up over the weekend.
Woops I am rambling on a bit so I had better get back to the housework ........... have a great weekend all.

Anyone know anything about Thin ....... I notice she has not posted recently.



Appreciate the good things

The sunshine feels so very much warmer after weeks of rainy days. Your loved ones seem so much more precious whenever they've been away.
You truly appreciate and value your good health after recovering from a difficult and prolonged illness. You learn new respect for financial discipline after working your way out of a burdensome debt.

It's easy and natural to appreciate the good things after you've experienced life without them. Yet sadly, that can often be too late.

How very much better it is to appreciate the good things you have while you still have them. For then, not only can you appreciate them, you can put them to positive and productive use.

So begin each day by counting your many blessings. Pay particular attention to the ones so overwhelmingly a part of you that you might otherwise take them for granted.

True abundance and gratitude are solidly linked. The more you appreciate the good things, the more numerous they will be.

-- Ralph Marston

[Nita]

Hi Ladies,

Where is everyone? Hopefully everyone is having a good day and are busy with Father Day celebrations! Look forward to hearing from all of you soon!

Anita

[HalGal]

Hey Movers and Losers...

You know, I took a peek, and we have not heard a word from Thin since the beginning of May. She was leaving Colorado, and they were having truck troubles. They had their brakes worked on in a previous location, and were going to wait for further repairs because they thought they may be related - and it sounded like they were going back to the same repair shop. Does anyone have an email address for her? I tried through the site, and it is not avaliable.

Last week was as busy as a school work day. I was in Louisville at state testing writing conference from 8A to 5P and zipped off of Lexington for class each night until 8:30P. NO fun at all. I rested most of the weekend to catch up.

I hope each of you are enjoying the beautiful weather we had this weekend. I am OP and doing well. To increase exercise is my goal, and it is a struggle.
I am reading at the skinny site, anyone else go there?

I am finishing reading The DaVinci Code. Wow... the last few hundred pages are just incredible. I have heard the ending is not as good as the end, but how could it be?