Welcome knsj! You'll like it here- we have a good group. Dena started the group for a christmas challenge and started the valentinies this time. It's helped alot!

Cole- Chris still has the sniffles but is acting a lot better today. Yesterday he called a little after lunch and I thought he was going home sick again- he said he didn't have any choice but to go home- his company had a fire yesterday around 12. they were sending everyone home. started in the paint area too (where he works- he's a painter) so I doubt they'll "work" today- probably clean up a bunch of stuff if they're done the investigation. He said work was slow so they shut everything off in the bottom paint area at 8:30 and that's where it started- so no clue how or anything. He was lucky- he said no one wants to paint in the bottom- probably would have smoked him out too- he's lucky he was on lunch break outside!

Cole- about the curves sales- :lol: $1 a day to exercise or 60 cents for a candy bar... that's the way I htink about it at least- a candy bar will last for a few seconds, but the satisfaction of knowing you exercised and making a permanent results- is well, permanent.

actually Chris and I have been talking more about it recently. we both want to own our own business some day but can't agree on what. Curves recently discontinued allowing member's children into the facility and people have been complaining. I thought about opening a "curves kids" for the parents to drop off their kids for 30 minutes- and there's an open office space right next door. but I'm not a certified day care provider or anything. and how much would I charge? I could get some kids exercise mats- hopscotch, things like that, have an age area- like a preteen place- some magazines or things like that, and then a baby with some playpens... and then another idea is "Cuts" (curves for men). There's only 14 franchises of cuts in the US. we could open one next to curves and then men could go to theirs. I really believe in Curves- because I've seen firsthand. I know there are alot of people that say they didn't get anything out of it, but I'm only doing curves and have amazing results.

Flora- It definitely makes the news more real when there's someone you "know" involved- thoughts and prayers are with you to get through!

Bonnie- good deal on swimsuits! thanks! we're going in March and need swimsuits. I bought one at JCP- and it was too much but I really liked it so I got it. my first bikini and then a skirt to go with it. it was right around $90 for 3 pieces- too much. oh well, it's our honeymoon. Ps. I weigh everyday too- I have a history of staying the same for 4-5 days, or bouncing up and down, 174, 175, 173, 174, 173, 174... and then it'll drop a couple lbs at once and I'll bounce along at that. I had a new low (this is on my bathroom scale naked) of 174 on Sunday and then I was at 173 today- my new low. :D

Have a great Wednesday everyone!

Good morning, ladies
 

Congrats to all the losers in our bunch! :D This is one time I'm sure they don't mind being called a loser! hee, hee.

Knsj and Snoopy-welcome, welcome, welcome. :wave: You are at the right place for help and encouragement. The posts on this site have kept me going more than once. Hope you draw strength from knowing you're not alone!

Florafae-Wow! Please know that your family and you are in my thoughts and prayers. Stay safe and keep us updated. Did you sons home have much damage or was he evacuated as a precaution?

Bonnie-you're really working, it girl! Congrats on all the exercise. :cp: you'll have to walk the shore line for your exercise while on vacation!

Kandice-I also hope you're not catching the bug! Also, a new low-congrats. You're really doing well. :cb: I like you're idea about the day care. My DH and I are in the same predicament-we'd love to run our own business-after we get out of debt at the end of the year-but are still sifting through ideas.

Cole63-thanks for your words of encouragement w/WW and staying OP. How are you doing? I've been OP all week except for yesterday when I used 2.5 FP. I'd like to go to meetings but DH is unemployed right now so I'll have to wait. Hold my feet to the fire! :D

As I told Cole63, I've done well w/my points this week. Also, meeting my goals for water and exercise. Here's my exercise for this week:
Sat-walked 5 miles
Sunday-stretching video-believe me, I needed it! sore muscles!
Mon-walked 5 miles
Tues-walked 5 miles

I usually take Weds/Sun off as I'm busy w/church-family activities.

I'm going to my sister's this weekend. Just me. No kids, no DH, no pet, no responsibilities. She provided a place of refuge many times while I was a single parent. Things have been pretty heavy at my house for a couple months so she's going to pamper me. She's already told me I get breakfast in bed. Yeah!

Well, gotta run. Hope everyone has a great health day. Thanks for all the encouragement and support you offer. It means more than you know. :grouphug:

Wow Ladies Thanks so much for the big welcome!

Well I have been sick for the past couple days since signing up for the challenge so I have eaten little and not done any real exercises that induces weight loss. Hopefully I am over that in a couple days and I can get back in my groove.

Morning Ladies!

I'm a bit under the weather this morning, so I'll make this kinda brief. I ate my breakfast, then promptly threw up, so I'm not sure if I have a bug or upset stomach. But I did enjoy reading all of these latest messages! You guys really make my day. Oh, and thank you, Bonnie and Kandice, for your nice words regarding starting our little group. We do have a great group here!

Flora, I'm so sorry for what you are going through. I'm a Southern CA girl (recently moved to Vegas) and am glued to the TV, watching my beautiful home state fall apart. I feel so bad you are going through such a mess. But I know Californians, and things will be up and running more beautiful than ever when everything calms down again. These last few years have been crazy with the fires, earthquakes and mudslides. My prayers are with you.

Krisj, welcome! We have very supportive and inpiring people in our group. Oh, no, you're not feeling well either? I'm sorry to hear that. Feel better soon. Good luck to you!

OK, gals, I'm trying to figure out if I should go back to bed or get going. :(
I hate being sick. I like being active, so I'm trying to convince myself I'm OK. :lol:
Hugs,
Dena :cool:

skinny- congrats on walking every day! Have a great time at your sister's!
I know what you mean about wednesdays/ sundays= church. I didn't have any motivation to go to Curves today at lunch (I did end up going though) but thought to myself I couldn't go tonight because church and I always get upset at myself when I don't go... (because the 2% of the day :lol: Cole)

Cole- I signed up a woman in Purchasing today. I saw her in the mail room last week and I saw her today too and she stopped me and asked what I was doing and I told her. She signed up at lunch time! YAY!

Hi ladies, wow, ti's cold here today. This morning I went out to an appointment and I heard on the radio that it was -37C (for you American girls, that's pretty close to -37F). Oh plus there was wind, almost froze me in my tracks.

Cole, about the gym, it's usually the contract at the gym what gets you. I'm glad you didn't get pressured into it.

Dollar and Snoopy, congrats on being down!! Isn't it a good feeling.

Florafae, I was wondering if anyone here was from California, it didn't look to good on the news. Quite scary in fact. I hope all goes well and that drier weather is headed your way.

Tobaccy, wow, you are really into the exercise!

Okay, to all the ladies who are under the weather, please get well. Drink some tea, and have a nap.

:coffee: Good Morning to all of the Valentinies!!! Hope everyone had a good nite. I stayed OP, walked with the girls at lunch, and walked/ran with the pup when I got home. (this is becoming my daily regimen) Eventually I will add more-I am going to check out Curves this weekend (Kandice :) ) and I may pick up that Leslie Sanson tape, "walk away the pounds", I have heard really good things about it. I could do that on rainy days and when I don't feel like leaving the house.

tobaccygirl~you are doing such a great job with your schedule, keep up the good work and you know you will see results on that scale! Florida sounds like it will be a great time for you. However, it will not even be able to compare to Hawaii (6 times? I have never been there) That is where I want to go on my honeymoon, of course I would have to get married first and of course I would have to get a ring before that-tisk..tisk. Oh well, have fun at the beach for the rest of us :p

KandiceA~you are cracking me up with all of your motivators :lol: , but they really do work, so I appreciate that extra little kick in the butt! That is so scary about Chris's work, I am sure that you are happy that he was not in the building at the time. I am so glad to hear that he is ok and even got an extra day off of work, hopefully he took that time to rest up and get well! I think that your business ventures sound like a great idea. You really have some great aspirations, you should follow thru with them. I think the day care idea is really good, no parent likes to feel guilty about leaving their kids with strangers while they are working out and the approach that you are taking with that sounds like it would work. There is a "little gym" in my area for kids to go and play basically, but it is like a workout gym for kids. It seems to have really taken off, you should def. look into your idea, I think it has great potential! So, now you've got people jumping on that Curves train with you, what a motivator you are!!! I am telling you, you were born to do sales and I am sure you get a great feeling from helping someone, esp. helping them to be healthy and happy-YOU GO GIRL!!! ;)

Skinny butt~Good job to you for staying OP! :cb: I have also managed to stay OP for the most part. I actually have never been to a meeting, I got the points book from a friend and started following it over the summer, I walked 2 miles every morning and stayed OP, I lost 12 pounds, but gained it back once I started working in an office and couldn't get my walk in and ate too much "office food" (cookies, cakes, candy,etc). I have been trying to keep up with my points, but I think going to the meeting will help me stay accountable for what I do during the week. So, me and a co-worker (who has lost 25 pounds w/WW) are going to a meeting tonite-wish me luck! I will tell you how it goes! Have fun at your sisters this weekend, you need some good R and R! :cool:

knsj and Dena~Hope you both are feeling better, I know there is a stomach flu thing and a cold flu thing going around. I had the cold flu, stayed in bed for an entire day to get rid of it! Try to take care of yourselves, get some sleep and drink some green tea (that always helps me)!

DewCan~Oh my, I would absolutely freeze there, it has been in the 60's here all week, but they say a cold front is coming in-yuck. I swear, I could live in a trailer on the beach and be perfectly content! Try and stay warm over there :(

Off to my first WW meeting tonite! I am so proud of our little group we have going here! I look forward to talking to all of you every day :D !!! Have a great day.

Good Morning, Everyone!

I'm still under the weather, but I just wanted to drop in and see how everyone is doing. This is such an exciting thread!

Cole, good for you for joining WW. I've been to the meetings, and actually got to my goal weight, so I know it works. (Since then I've gained back about 14 lbs., but at least I kept the other 31 off.) Plus going with a friend is great. You two can support each other while learning what to do. I know you'll get to your goal. You have to tell us about the different plans these days. I'll be rooting for you! :)

Bonnie, I love your exercises. You inspire me! Exercise is the best medicine for staying young and feeling great. As soon as I'm outta this bed (threw up again this morning,) I'm finding me a gym that I like. You are right... Hawaii is heavenly. I've been there four times. And no you are not nuts about leaviang your pooch. I feel the same way.

Kandice, keep up the great work. I love your ideas. I think there are franchises you can look into. I know there is one called "Little Gym." Good luck to you.

Well, it's time for me to stop typing.
Hugs,
Dena :cool:

Good morning, ladie
 

How's everyone doing today? Things here are good. I was OP yesterday and met my water goals. No exercise b/c church-unless, of course, you count rushing around from work to home to grab a bite to eat, then to the church to drive the van route and then to the hospital to donate blood as exercise! If that counts, I got quite a workout! :D When I put in my 3 mile (at least) walk tonight, it will give me 22 miles for this week. woo-hoo!

dena and knsj-hope you're feeling better soon!

Bonnie-would you soak up some sun for me when you go to FL? I have some friends who just moved to St. Pete and they really like it there. Since you're going to horse country may I assume that you have a love of horses? I have a friend at church who plans all her vacations are horse trails! :)

dewcan- -37? Sheeze. I'd be happy w/some snow-it's 56 here-but I don't think I want it that cold! brrrr I just want enough snow to make some snow cream! We are having what I refer to as an "eeyore" day-just a little gloomy.

Cole63-So how did the meeting go? Sounds like you have a pretty good routine going w/your exercise. I will be glad when my living room becomes available again (adult son sleeping on couch!) so I can incorporate my stretching and aerobics back into my morning routine. Oh, I did eat a couple fig newtons last night but only after I donated blood. I figure if you donate blood you surely deserve a cookie! ;)

Kandice-so glad Chris is safe! How scary. He must have an angel-in addition to you ;) -watching over him! :angel: Glad all is well. Oh, forgot to tell you thanks for informing about the weigh in date. Sometimes, I'd forget my head if it wasn't attached! Congrats on getting others interested in being healthy! It's a wonderful feeling. I love to watch my DD's reading food labels and making healthy food choices. I also like it when people notice that my eating habits have changed. It opens the door to building up a healthy lifestyle. Believe me, if they open the door for a discussion, I'm going right in. Actually, I have been known to open the door myself! :D

Don't you just love this place? I know I do. I'm enjoying getting to know everyone and share in your successes. Truly an inspirational group of ladies! Keep up the good work! Talk to ya later.

Howdy everyone,

Well, the storm has passed, and things are beginning to dry out a little. :sunny: My son’s house survived unscathed, and the evacuation order was finally lifted yesterday. He rents the place with a bunch of roomies, and they were all very glad to find things safe and sound when they returned. When the order to evacuate came (the police came knocking door-to-door), they were told to get out RIGHT NOW. They only had time to grab their backpacks and hop in their cars. The house is located at the base of a mountain and right across the street from a creek. There was imminent danger of slides and flooding. Luckily, all turned out well. :)

Slowly, but surely, I’m getting back on track diet-wise. I’ve been looking into other ways of getting a low-impact aerobic workout, besides using my stationary bike. I was wondering if anyone knows anything about a three-wheeled scooter called a Trikke. It’s propelled by putting weight on one leg and then the other, like skating or skiing. There was an article about it in the “fitness” section of the paper. It looked like something I might actually enjoy doing, but so many of these things are just a bunch of hype. Has anybody tried one?

Wishing all of you a good Thursday, :wave:
Florafae

New
 

Hi, my name is Amy and I am new to 3FC. This is my first post. I was hoping to join you because my first mini-goal is set for Valentines day. I am 28 years old and have four beautiful (from a non-biased opinion, of course ;) ) children ages 7, 5, 3, and 1. All those pregnancies have really gotten my weight up. I weighed 125 when I got pregant with number 1 and I now weigh 192. Sigh. So, my first mini-goal is to lose 10 pounds by Valentines Day. That would be 2 pounds a week. I am limiting my calories to 1500-1600 a day and exercising at least 30 minutes six times a week. My overall goal is to lose 50 pounds by September 1. Ideally, I would like to get down to 125 again, but I am going to settle for 140 for now. DH and I want to have another baby (oh, dear) and would like to get pregnant around September. For that reason, I need to stop trying to lose then (140 is considered a "healthy" weight for my height), although I will also try to be VERY diligant during pregnancy. Any advice would be great. I am only on day two of my new goal, and yesterday I struggled with cravings SO MUCH! I made it, but I was discouraged that I was already struggling and it was only day ONE!!!

I do great in the morning and early afternoon, but late afternoon and evening KILL me. That is when all my cravings seem to kick in and I can barely restrain myself from driving to the gas station and just buying SOMETHING, lol. Any advice? I removed all the treats from the house (and DH's coworkers are all cursing me because they're eating all of it now) and that helps a lot.

Anyway, hope it's not too late to join your Valentine's Day challenge.

Amy

I miss you all!
 

Hi gang.
I have been so much out of the loop!!! Son #1 has monopolized the computer all week, working on a science project til the wee hours. But, I have certainly missed logging in and being a part of the group. I have been doing really well on my program. The diet part has not been the problem...I was struggling with the exercise part. But I did learn something about myself early this week..I learned that if I didn't do it first thing in the morning, I put it off and put it off...then I felt guilty, which made me depressed...then I'd have to fight against the hungries a lot harder. SOOOOO, I have been laying out my gym clothes the night before right next to the bed. Just as soon as hubby walks out the door and the school bus pulls away...I hit the treadmill. Today, it was oddly warm (62 F) so I actually DROVE 10 miles to the school track and walk 3 miles on it. Today...more rain, more flooding and temp dropping to the teens.
Sounds like everyone is doing well and I am so proud of our group. I really enjoy all the hints that we are sharing. And it's really encouraging to know that there are a lot of people out there taking charge (and falling down once in a while) and making changes to their lives for the better. I hope to regain the use of MY computer after the weekend so I can go back to replying to all my friends here. Bare with me. Thanks.
Sweetpea

Hello to all well it took me some time to find you guys again Well I have been trying real hard and doing not to bad well as I said I gain 10lbs but I am not saying any thing for the Valentine challenge just that I am staying on plan and doing as much walking as I can last week from Jan 1 to 8th I lost 2 lbs and waked 11 miles and this week so far doing not doing bad I will weigh again on monday so jan.1 I was 185 then 183 so need to lose 7 more to get back where I was be for christmas Bonnie so nice to see you are still here and Den@ good luck to all the new ones Jean

Cole, happy for youthat you're going to WW. There was a thing on the news that said that WW was the best one for success and keeping it there.

Oh, Bonnie, you make me laugh with you saying you're "as old as dirt". I appreciate your humour. :lol:

Florafae, glad all is improving there. Oh, and I've never heard of the trikke. Sounds interesting.

Skinny, that's a wonderful thing to do, donate blood. I'd do it but, I'm one of those people that are 'not wanted'. :(

amy, welcome here. I struggle with the same issues. Some people find it helps them to make a menu for the day in the morning and it helps them stick with it. Just a thought. Hmmm...another baby, sounds rather busy, but fun. ;)

Congrats on the 2 pound loss, Jean :spin:

Okay, still freakishly cold here. This is unusually cold, even if January is most often a cold month. Today it was in the -40's, plus wind, so an unbelieveable windchill. I went out at noon and it was still -40 :dizzy: Anyways, I'm sticking with my daily biking and situps, and today I had a good eating day. These good days are very few and far between. It's an addiction, seriously. I sit here and fight myself to not go and eat. It's not htat I'm hungry, sometimes I don't even like what I'm eating, but I just have to do it. I wonder if there's a Zyban for dieters :lol: A friend of mine who quite smoking said that she found it easier to quit smoking than to lose weight, and this was after years of smoking. This is depressing, because they say it is so hard to quit smoking :( Well, I didn't mean to be so depressing, so I'll go to bed as it's almost 1am.

Bonnie- How'd you like the eyebrow wax? I love getting mine done.

Dena- thanks for the info about little gym- I'll look into it. How are you feeling today?

Skinny- congrats on staying OP again. You're doing so good!

Flora- good news about your son. Glad everything was safe when they got back.

Amy- welcome! never too late to join! Have a great time!

Chris is feeling a little better- he still has cold sweats alot- he's cold to the touch but that "calmy" feeling. I actually had to change the bed this AM because he sweat so much last night. Called him this AM to see how he's doing and he said, the big wigs just made their way around and told everyone that they were working 7 days a week- starting tomorrow. The paint area was demolished in the fire- the only thing that survived is a sample paint room but it's tiny and they can only paint 1 piece at a time. I don't know how well thought out the plan is- sure they get the orders out instead of contracting it out but they're paying these guys time and a half. Painters are not cheap- well they pay them good at least. It's good in one way- $$$ coming in but I hate that chris won't ever get a day off. they're going to do it until they're rebuilt- told them about 3 months. Poor Chris.

that's it for me for today- not an exciting weekend- doing our second to last premarital counseling session sunday evening. but that's it. probably early to bed tonight since he's gotta work tomorrow.

Have a great weekend everyone!

Good morning, ladie
 

Hope this finds everyone doing well. I walked 50 minutes last night, met water goals and was op. Feel like I'm getting back on track.

Florafae-So glad your son and you came through everything unscathed! I've never heard of the Trikke. Have you had any one else respond positively? I'm curious so keep up updated, please.

Cole-how was the meeting? I hope you really liked it. I have a WW question for you-do you count your activity points or stick to just using flex points? Sometimes I use my ap. Just wondered. If we were to count both, we could eat practically anything in sight and be okay! I had a problem at first w/my points b/c I thought as long as I'm within my points, I'll be okay. But I learned you still have to keep things balanced. I'm doing much better getting in my veggies/fruits. OP yesterday and that was even counting a few oreo's! Hey-PMSing women must have chocolate! This one must, anyway! :D I have 28 FP's that I've saved in case I need them at my sister's house this weekend.

Amy-welcome, welcome, welcome! :wave: Glad to have you here. Wow. You certainly are a busy mom, aren't you? Do you homeschool? Just curious. My sister home schools here 8 year old daughter and it works very well for them. I think it's great that parents can do that. I take it from your post that your a SAHM? As for the snacks, we purged our home of them months ago. Even when we get dessert it's a "lite" version. Is it possible to find a lite version of whatever your favorite is? That way you'd get the taste w/o as much bad stuff. I agree w/what someone else said about menu's. We make a menu every week before grocery shopping. It really helps keep us on track w/healthy eating and eliminates stress. Again-welcome. You're at the right place for encouragement and support! :angel:

Sweetpea-welcome back. :) I've missed you. You live in Ohio, right? How's all the rain, snow and flooding effecting you? Stay safe! Congrats on your exercise! Good idea-laying out your clothes before going to bed at night. Smart thinking!

Dena-feeling better?

Jean-nice to meet you! :) Congrats on your weight loss! Way to go! :cb:

DewCan-I donate blood on a regular basis. I'm O+ so they love to see me come in! I have to be careful w/my iron level though. I've been turned away more than once b/c my iron was too low. I'm borderline enemic. So, about a week before I go, I load up on iron rich foods and stop drinking tea. I heard some frustration in your last post so here's a hug for you! :grouphug: I'd like to encourage you to just keep pushing through. You can do it! We all believe in you and are thinking positive thoughts for you! AS for the snacking, do you keep healthy snacks at home? Maybe low fat or lite versions of your favorite? Is there maybe a stressful sitch in your life that is causing you to seek comfort from food? I know I have to always be on guard re: emotional eating. I am feeling a litte frustrated right now as well. I'm PMSing and, even though I'm exercising and eating right, I'm not feeling any different right now. But I just have to keep pushing and I know it will start coming off again. After TOM, I certainly expect a loss! :) We're all cheering for you to succeed! :cheer:

Kandice-glad Chris is feeling better. It sounds like he'll need all the energy he can get for his work schedule! Are you doing your premarital counseling through your church? That's how we did ours a couple years ago. I enjoyed it. Hope you're gleaning lots from it. Not much longer now. I'm so excited for you!! Is it going to be a big wedding?

Bonnie-I meant to ask you about eye wax as well. I love it! It's one of my pamper me activities. I like to watch horse events as well and my DD's have horses at their dad's farm. I think horses are beautiful animals but enjoy them from a distance. I used to ride some but haven't been on one for years. When are you leaving for FL? Be sure to use your SPF45! :D

Boy, I certainly was long winded today! Oh, well. Ladies-have a great day! Remember to be kind to yourself today!

Hi everyone!

First of all, thanks for your kind well wishes for me to get better. I feel better today. I can't wait to get out of the house! I found another gym in my phone book yesterday, which is only 4 miles away, and I made an appointment to check it out at lunchtime. Wish me luck. This is like my 10th one I scoped out. I want a ladies only gym, where I can come or go when I want, with cardio/weight machines at a reasonable price, that is clean without a many-year contract. :lol: Is that too much to ask? I'm just not into co-ed, with all those guys and sweaty smells. :lol:

Skinny, woo hoo! Good job on walking, drinking your water and being OP yesterday. You're doing great! And I love your encouraging attitude.

Flora, glad to hear that things are improving. Are you in LA county, San Bernardino County, or Ventura County? Isn't that where most of the stuff is happening? I lived in Santa Barbara, 15 miles away from La Conchita. I knew that place well. I don't know wjy those people continued to live there after the mishap in 1995. Too dangerous for me.

Amy, welcome! We're glad you could be part of our group. This Valentinies really provide great support and motivation. And your plan of counting cals and exercise are great. Try making a cup of hot tea when the cravings hit. Or do something nice for yourself like take a hot bath or do your nails. Try to keep occupied at night to start a new habit. Or go brush your teeth. We all have moments when we want to blow it. We have to do whatever it is we enjoy to replace that feeling. (It's usually do to stress.) Good luck to you! Come here and post your feelings if you want. You'll find that we probably go through the same thing.

Jean, so glad you found us. And congrats to you for getting back on track and losing 2 lbs.

Dew, I have to hand it to you. I don't think I could live in weather that cold. It would get to me after a while.

Sweet Pea, glad to see you back with us.

Bonnie, eye brows waxed? You're going to look hot for your FLA trip.!

Kandice, sorry Chris is still under the weather. What he has doesn't sound good at all. Please take care.
Hugs,
Dena :cool:

Hi all!
 

Thanks for the welcome! I am glad to be here. I have discovered that I feel the worst from about 4-6:30 or so every evening. I get that "why in the world am I doing this" syndrome, lol. I have decided that I need to GO somewhere during this time period or something. Perhaps that will help. It sounds like you all have VERY busy lives yourselves!

Skinnybutt-I do not homeschool, although three of my four are still of preschool age. I do a co-op preschool with some ladies in the neighborhood. My (almost) 5 year old and my 3 year old attend it. I teach once a week and the other three weeks a month the other ladies teach it. My oldest (and my only boy) is in first grade.

Florafee-It sounds like you have gone through a really rough time! Hope you're hangning in there!!

Cole-I considered doing WW, but the only meeting place was CLEAR across town and I knew I'd never go. How much does it cost?



My husband and I are both full time students, and my husband works full time in addition. I am a SAHM. That makes for some LOOOONNGG days with all these little kids and a husband at school until 9:30 or so. I adore my kids, though. We are aiming for 6 kids. I have ALWAYS wanted a really big family.

How much weight should I lose a week? I had read that you shouldn't go over 2 pounds a week or it wouldn't stay off. For some reason, I seem to have lost THREE pounds in the first three days! Is that just water weight or something? Is that okay? Let me know if I am doing something wrong.

Amy

SW: 192
CW: 189
GW: 140

Skinny- We didn't have a church when we set out to find a pastor so he's just a christian counselor/ pastor. He said he strongly recommended doing the counseling, he didn't like to marry people without it. We are learning alot- we've talked about our differences in the way we were raised and our expectations of raising our children and things like that. Now, we found a church and invited our pastor from church. we'll ask him to do a blessing at the reception or something. Small wedding- invited 79 people including us and the pastor, but in June we're going to Maine and having a big wedding up there for my extended family- inviting 100+.

Bonnie- ohh a pedi now?! dena got one not too long ago- be careful- they're addicting! manis are too for me at least- I love seeing my nails- hands and feet- done.

I just got done pampering myself a few minutes ago- I bought a pair of undies for the wedding- says "I love Chris" and then I bought a shirt to wear sunday after the wedding and on our honeymoon that says "Mrs. S---" my new last name... Going to try to keep them a secret from him so he'll see the undies after we're already married.

Skinny, thanks for the encouragement ;)

Tobaccy, you CAN do it!!! Yeah, for the loss of the holiday pounds. :)

Amy, I think big families are great. I come from a family of 6 kids and it was wonderful, I wouldn't have wanted it any other way.

Well, I should go and clean, clean, clean....yuck

Diana

Good morning everyone, :flow2:

Kandice, the undies and t-shirt are a great idea. I’d love to see the look on Chris’s face when he sees them. :D

Amy, evening is the hardest time for me to control my eating, too. I get really hungry for salty things. If there are chips in the cupboard, I hear them calling my name. I think your idea of getting out of the house is a good one. One of my tricks is to take the dog for a walk. Being outside, especially when it’s colder, seems to break the spell. I also have some fancy teas that I save for such occasions, and I’ve found that drinking a glass of lime-flavored Perrier also seems to help. I think it’s because Perrier contains a lot of sodium and eases the salt craving.

Dena, glad to hear you’re feeling better. I live in Goleta. What are the odds? My son who was evacuated lives at the bottom of Old San Marcos Pass. All the homes in the area were evacuated. Cathedral Oaks road was closed from Patterson to Turnpike. It’s been very crazy here because the 101 has been closed at La Conchita since Monday, and all the commuters from Ventura have been unable to get to work. I think the 101 is supposed to open today, at least one lane in each direction. (So much for the traffic report :^: )

We have a good friend who lives in La Conchita. The mudslide stopped one block from his house. Those who died were his friends and neighbors. He is badly shaken. After the last deadly slide, everyone urged him to move, but he loves being close to the beach and decided to stay. I don’t know what he’ll do now. I’m with you. There’s no way I would live there.

Diana, I grew up in Illinois and had some cold winters, but never 40 below. Wow. :sman: That’s cold! I understand what you’re saying about the urge to eat even when you’re not hungry. I feel the same way a lot of times. So much of dieting has to do with the brain, emotions, and stress, and nothing to do with the stomach and hunger. I think being aware of this fact is at least a step in the right direction.

And now, back to work. I wish everyone a good weekend.
Florafae

Hello, everyone. Welcome to all of the new people! Our group just keeps growing and growing :dizzy: It will only make us all stronger.

Thanks to all of you for your questions and concerns about my WW meeting. It went really well, I absolutley love the leader, she is really energetic, outgoing, and a little loopy (just like me :D ) I think I will actually look forward to going to the meetings! I found out that I was not doing my points correctly, so mabey that has been a problem with my weight loss. I didn't know that I was supposed to have a certain amount of veggies an fruit and milk, I was just eating my alloted points. Whoops! I am OP now that I know and will use my Flex points over the weekend! I love the idea that I have these "extra" points, in case I mess up. It isn't really that expensive, I had a free pass to join. All I had to buy was the books ($25) and pay the $12 weekly dues. It is worth it to keep my butt in line :lol: Pretty sad that it takes this for me to be held accountable for my weight. But, at this point I am happy with whatever works!!!

I just wanted to tell you, Kandice your little undies and shirt sound so cute, I know Chris will love them! :devil: that is also so good that you are going to couseling, I am sure that you will have a very happy marriage.

I am glad that everyone is feeling better and keeping on track! I will be traveling with work next week to Savannah, Hilton Head, and Valdosta area so I don't know how much I will be able to post. I will try to keep in touch! Everyone have a wonderful and healthy weekend!

Flora,
You live in Goleta? And your son lives near Patterson? I lived near of Patterson and Hollister! Wow, what are the odds is right!! I'm glad you are all doing better. I can't believe that this has happened to my lovely little Santa Barbara area. I used to work and went to school at UCSB. Isn't it a small world! Take care.
Hugs,
Dena :cool:

Dena,

My husband and I are both UCSB alumni. We came here to go to school many, many years ago and never left. We still make it to a lot of Gaucho basketball games.

For all the terrible loss, sorrow, and disruption that the heavy rains brought, they have also turned the area into a beautiful jade jewel. Today, all the plants and trees seem to be sparkling. The mountains and hillsides that were brown from two years of drought are now deep green and lush with growth. The sun is shining. The sky is a brilliant blue. The air is crisp and clean. The birds are singing. It’s one of those amazing days in paradise. I’m sure you know what I mean.

Take care,
Florafae

Hello to all Dewcan surprize to see you say -40 I thought I was the only one from Canada But for you ladies that say that is to cold well there is nothing better to go for a walk on a snowy winter day and thats what I did to day 2 miles and it was wind chil -26 really feld good ......It is better then all that rain we were having .Well did good to day hope I can keep it up for the week end ,,I have a hard time keeping up with all you guys it is nice to hear that I am not alone with wanting to eat for the fun of it . I dont keep any chunk food in my house so if I feel like piging out I have to have freash veggies but I think I am on my way I hope three meals and snacks all planed and marked down ,,,, Healthy eating to all Jean

Good morning, ladies
 

Hope this finds everyone doing well. I did 50 minutes on the ellip. last night, was op and met my water goals. I'm getting ready to go for a walk. It's 25 degrees here at my sister's house in IN but I'll be bundled up! They are not members of the Y or a gym or anything so it's walk outside or skip it today. And skipping is not an option.

Kandice-love the panties/t-shirt idea. :D I'll bet he loves it! That's very sweet and thoughtful of you. We were already going to church so our pastor did our premarital. He won't marry anyone who doesn't have premarital w/someone. It doesn't have to be him but someone. One of the hardest decisions we had to make about getting married was what church to attend. We both attended somewhere and were very active. We ended up at Bill's church. The deciding factor were how my kids responded to his church and were they wanted to attend. It's been the best thing we ever did. Karen, my oldest, sings w/the praise team on Sunday morn. and night (she has an awesome voice!) and Ashley, my youngest, is becoming involved in things as well. Overall, it was a good move for all of us.

Jean-I'll be thinking of you when I'm walking around in the cold today. I don't know if I could walk outside in weather as cold as what you've got!

Amy-Six kids. Wow. I think that's great. I have 4 siblings and, as Diana already already said, I wouldn't have it any other way. There are so many wonderful memories of growing up in a house full of family. Full time student as well? What are you studying? I understand what you said about the days sometimes being long. I used to call the weather update just to hear an adult voice! And that was w/only two kids. But, I loved being a SAHM. It's the greatest, most fulfilling thing I've ever done.

Cole-glad you liked the meeting. I was doing the same thing you were w/my points. My friend straightened me out though and then I started seeing some awesome results. I saved my FP for this weekend as well. I knew my sis would be doing some extra things and I didn't want to have to worry about my points that much. This morning is pancakes. Yum. I haven't had pancakes in quite a while and I plan to thoroughly enjoy them! :) Be careful on the road next week.

Dena-glad you're feeling better! How's it going for you?

Bonnie-congrats on the loss! You're doing great. Hang in there. :dancer: I like pedis but, like Kandice, I think mani's are my fave. That's one of the treats I do for myself every now and then. What's next-a facial and a massage? :D

Florafae-how are things going for you? Sorry to hear about your friends loss. I liked that you try to find some good in things. You spoke very elequently of how beautiful everything looks now. I believe that's called finding the silver lining in the clouds. :)

Well, ladies, I must go. My breakfast awaits. Have a great health day and a great weekend.

okay, ladies
 

That HHfM post was actually from me. I have no idea who HHfM is or how I got there but it's actually me. Oh, well. Happy Saturday!! :)

Grandma57, I'm from Alberta. ARe you in Ontario, just a guess, cuz you were talking about rain.

Gotta run, have a good weekend!!

Diana

Hello to all yes Diana I am from Ontario and the rain is over cold sitting in -16 to day I did my one mile out side and Bonnie believe it or not I was sweating I had to many close on .But it feels so good I kind of like the cold but when Spring comes it is nice to get the heavy coats off ....and the mittens .......I dont really know how to make Putine but if french fries dont have enough calories you can add cheese and gravy I think thats what it is ....but not sure is that a Canadian dish ? well got a new Leslie Sansone walk away the pounds "walk and Jog " she must of made this one just for me it is great a half an hour long and the same as if you walked 2 1/2 miles did it to day plus my one mile out side I am on a Roll I will weigh on monday So every one keep going Jean

Bonnie, poutine is something people here really like. I've never tried it because I think it's best if I don't know what it tastes like :lol: Congrats on the pound lost!!!!

Jean, is that a new video, because I haven't heard of it? I'm assuming that it includes jogging, hmmm...how do you like it? I'll have to check it out.

Good night ladies
Diana

Hi Diana yes I think it is a new I just got it It is a 30 mni work out real simple and easy to do but I work up a good sweat she gets you moving walking and joging . Jean

I'm originally from Maine- my maternal side grandparents were all from Canada, and poutine was/is a family favorite! mmmmm!!! My grandparents families each came down from Canada to work in the textile mills and set up in Lewiston in a community named "Little canada" where all the frechmen lived who worked in the mill. Later after they befriended each other- they realized they were from the same area in Canada- they describe it as living in the next town over.

finding a church was hard for us too Skinny. I come a very Catholic family and was always very involved in the church. I came to NC and went to church and didn't feel the welcomeness and love that I was used to so I never went back. Chris never went to church. Chris and I found ourselves a Southern Baptist church that we like a lot. We're not allowed to become members yet- because we haven't been baptized (I had been Baptized Catholic and Eph- I forget which chapter- it says, "One Lord, One Faith, One baptism" but the pastor and chairman of deacons say I need to get baptized again). They won't baptize us because we're "living in sin" by living together before we're married. he said they'd baptize us after the wedding though.
Last night with our pastor that's going to marry us, we talked to him about it and he said he would be honored to baptize us if our pastor didn't have a problem with it. Chris and I talked last night and we want to do it with the pastor that's going to marry us. we've come to know and love him and want to share that with him.

weigh in day today! How's everyone doing? (Congrats Bonnie- one the lb lost! :D )
I'll post my results around lunch time.