Hi people. I'm wrapping up Day 3 of Lent and so far so good. The sugar is the hardest. I know I can do it because I have done it before but today I think the hardest was remembering I wasn't eating certain things, especially sugar. It was as if sugar in all shapes and forms suddenly became the only things that came to mind. It was ridiculous! My world has been reduced to visions of sugar plums!!

Derry -- Sorry to hear your daughter is now sick. These things do go the rounds, don't they. How is the weather? Hope you were able to see a doctor or get some medicine. How old is your daughter, by the way? Yes, Valentine's Day will be a problem I'm sure. Perhaps I can get around it by buying up some post VDay chocolate cheap and saving it till Easter. How are you doing? I think you can do better with weight loss if you try to substitute low calorie things for the chocolate. I usually don't do this, that's when I turn to nuts and deep-fried things, even chips, which I normally NEVER eat. Be careful you don't compensate in a high calorie way! Good luck!

jolly -- Thanks. I now understand about the operation. I don't think I could do that. Honestly. I can't even put eye drops in without holding my eyelid open and I can't be looking at the bottle. I do it in a mirror. Do they hold your eyelids open with something? Despite your little cave-in, it wasn't so bad. Like you said, you didn't have the chips and great save with the soda. Count down til Easter. Eyes on the goal!

Raven -- It's all about starting over again, isn't it? Take heart. Even top athletes have to start from zero after an accident or injury. Think of yourself like an athlete in rehabilitation. I was *****ing in the same way you were on another thread about the again and again and again and I am SO sick of it!! But let's just do it again and again. At least we're alive, at least we can. Let's have fun with what we have now. There is a young man in my neighborhood in a wheelchair. He was hit by a truck when he was 18, about 10 years ago, All he can use is his left arm. I talk to him and we've been out drinking. I think of him when I'm complaining about not being able to exercise, or not wanting to. I think of how he doesn't even have a choice and though maybe it doesn't make me get to the gym or work out I realize I am so privileged to even have that choice. Yes, you felt good on that treadmill. Do it because it feels good. Maybe you're putting too much importance on these goals of weight loss and a great body. I know I do. We have to just feel good in our bodies and then maybe improve just a little bit BECAUSE it feels good too. Let's try it, Rave.

Red - I think that's where I'm trying to get to. I have a great appreciation for the fact that I'm healthy and have the use of all my body parts.. I've gone through enough in my life to really respect that. It isn't something I take lightly, or for granted. In an instant... too many things can change. I think what I'm frustrated by is that I'm not taking full advantage of the capabilities I DO have. That bothers me. I'm strong, I'm healthy, I have all this wonderful potential. But it's only that, potential. If I don't do anything with it, that will never change. I think if things don't bug us, don't bother us about ourselves, we get complacent. I think there is a place for dissatisfaction within us. But it has to be to get us moving forward, not depress us to the point where we sink into being a blob.

I know that by choosing to move into a career that will demand that I be physically fit - not necessarily beautiful or slender - but strong and capable, I'm making a very positive change in my life. If I want to excel in this field, I'd better take care of my body. This has given me kind of the "reason" (I hate needing one) to get in shape again. Not "just" because it's healthy or "just" because I *should*. It's kind of like changing your life because you have diabetes or something... why can we do it then, but not to PREVENT it from happening? Bah. Anyway, my goals have changed a lot in the last couple weeks. And the feeling of doing this because my livelihood depends on it is kind of unique and cool. :D

Good morning ladies.

Not much going on here. I've been struggling with some back pain this week, so my exercise is not where it should have been. On the other hand, eating has been very good. So, it's a 50/50 sort of week.

I'm not going to weigh weekly anymore. I need to get away from validating my new lifestyle with the number on the scale. Things are looser, I feel better and can do more things by being active. The numbers on the scale will go down, but I am not giving them the power they have had for so long. I think I'll weigh on the last day of the month and have that be my number.

Good to see you back, Raven. Its always tough starting back again, but the only other option is to not do anything, and I know that is not in your plan. Good for you for following your dreams.

Red: Excellent job on the Lent thing. I am also doing well. No mindless snacking so far. I truly examine if I am hungry. If not, then no snack. If I am, have a healthy snack instead of junk. Works for me.

Derry: I'm going to be good for Valentines Day. Hubby and I are only exchanging cards. We are going to stay overnight at the beach when we get down to Oregon. That is our present to ourselves. Not food. Makes me happy.

Jolly: I'm so glad things are going well for you after surgery. I would be way too freaked out to have it done. Thankfully I don't have eye problems---yet. Great job on the mini victories!

Well, I'm outta here for the weekend. We leave next Friday for two weeks. I won't be checking in on the thread, either. No computers or anything--just having fun with my family and friends.

I'll keep checking in next week.

Happy Weekend!

Chach

Hey, I haven't posted, but I've been keeping up with everyone.
Jolly, I'm glad surgery went well.
Raven, sounds like you're on the right track. I had a job working with animals that demanded physical fitness and left little time for poor eating habits. I weighed the least ever in my adult life at that job. Life changes/choices have alot to do with.... well.... everything!
I hope everyone's Lent committments go well. I'll try not to bring up the "C" word anymore!
I am still feeling a little bad about making my sister-in-law sound like a person who isn't as awesome as she really is. On the other hand I can't deny that I usually leave their home feeling bad about myself. But that's my fault.
Diet-wise I've been doing terrible. I've been eating alot, and beer is still my friend. Fortunately there isn't anymore and I'm not going to buy any either. I replaced my scale battery and amazingly I haven't gained. Maybe I needed a few more calories to nurse the baby. Growth spurt or something.
My mom might be moving out here. She lives with my brother on the east coast now. She had a stroke a few years ago and isn't doing too well. She's going to move into an assisted living place about 20 minutes from here. Hopefully she will do better around other people her age with organized activities to keep her busy. She's pretty much housebound now and it's no good for her OR my brother. It's going to complicate my life some. I'll have even less time to myself, but I'm excited that I'll be seeing my mom weekly rather than twice a year as it has been since my oldest was born. And my brother can have a more normal life too.
Well, I hope everyone has a great week-end. I'm not planning anything exciting, maybe some house work. Whee.
:dizzy:

4/36. . that's four down and 36 to go for Lent. . .
 

Hi people. Saturday night here. Just in from work. Have more work to do. Wanted to reply and keep caught up here. It's the fourth day of my "4 for 40" challenge. That's what I'm called this thing for Lent. So far, so good. It is hard though. The sugar, as I've said, I've done, but now I'm looking for other foods to take the place of all that munching. What I really need to do is change the excessive eating but . . . that'll have to come later I think. Right, now, kill the trigger foods, the high-calorie foods. I made a big salad though today. Not much in the exercise department though. Really ashamed of that kind of, ah well. Ah, no wait! I did walk! Got on the train THREE stops later than usual and got off it ONE earlier than usual. Yes, that was good.

*******

Raven -- Oh, don't think I've "gotten" there quite yet. I'm still trying too, getting there, slipping away, back again. But I feel a lot better about my efforts than before. Oh, I definitely think we need to always feel that healthy dissatisfaction. It's necessary to change I think, develop, progress, explore. But not feeling ticked at ourselves doesn't necessarily mean we are complacent. I know what you mean totally though. I'm trying to rail against the same thing, the contentedness, passivity and complacency that is what you get when you give up on your dreams, citing "reason" after "reason." I think it's very rare that people don't give up on their dreams. There is really very little support because getting to them means hard work and sacrifice and a **** of a lot of uncertainty and moments where we, to use a Bible analogy, cry out with the, "why hath thou forsaken me?!" bit, make ourselves really unpleasant to be around and send friends and lovers running! But, you know, recently, I really think I'm changing. It's a part of why I'm not working out and all right now I think. I just decided to slow down, go a bit easier on myself but I haven't at all given up. I'm regrouping my resources I think. Raven, how can you not need a "reason" to get in shape? I certainly wouldn't feel back about that. I don't think anyone doesn't need a reason. And I don't think you're the kind of shallow person who lets appearance dictate to you. You're not morbidly obese. I think you're pretty fit, right? So, I think this career change is perfect. I think I'm the same. I don't know. If I can get really excited about being real strong and lean I think it will have to be the feel, not the look. Maybe I could start thinking of the "feel" of it. Hard to do when I've never been there but. . . Raven, as far as changing because we have diabetes or something, well, heck, that's mostly just fear and most change is fear motivated, probably the biggest one is the fear of rejection by a lover or the fear of not being accepted. I mean, why do so many people balloon after marriage? In any case, I think you can really use this career change as a good motivation for your "new you," -- RAVEN NTH EDITION. REVISED. -- Not only is it necessary to be strong, but you will want to be lean so you'll be more comfortable and heck, it can't hurt to be good-looking too. You can be the new poster model for the Farriers Association of America! (photo of you holding your hammer in one hand, the other hand rests on a horse's backside as you wink) "Com' on sweetheart. Give Raven a leg up, will ya."

Chachee -- Good going on the eating. I think I've been decent, still consuming lots of calories but I don't think I can go quite so overboard as when I'm eating the FAB 4!! that I have cut out for Lent. Glad to hear the clothes are looser. I'm the opposite unfortunately but I really think these next 5 weeks should show some improvement. Sounds like you'll have a thinning Valentine's Day. That does sound nice. Have a good weekend and hope to hear from you next week before you're off. You must be excited, no, about your coming vacation?

Apple Blossom -- I couldn't figure out what the "C" word was at first! But then I got it! You bet, evil stuff around here til the Bunny comes! Oh, Apple, don't worry about your sister in law and having slandered here and dragged her name through the mud!! :rofl: It was nothing like that! We all need to rant and we all exaggerate. We were just concerned because we don't know how much is truth and how much exaggeration. But now we do, so don't sweat it! I mean, heck, it's like the kids screaming, "I hate you, I hate you, I hate you!!" They don't really hate you, just a teeny bit maybe, but it feels great to say it. That's what you were doing. So, laugh. I think it's funny. We won't tell anyone! Sounds like you're going through a diet slump, eh? Well, at least the scale was gentle. Are you nursing now? Oh right, the little one the son was "punishing." Sorry, all the stories don't stay with my sievelike mind! I think you'll enjoy being able to see your mother more. I mean, they're not with us forever and she needs you for sure. I miss my father whom I never see since I can never get back to the States. My mother died when I was 23 so I never got really to know her when I was a mature adult (if that's what you can call me now! ;) )

Hope to hear from the others, Derry? Michelle anyone else? Newbies out there. Jump in! :wave:

Saturday morning
 

Hi guys!
I'm sick now, the kids are getting over it and now I'm the one. Oh joy. However, not feeling well has not kept me from watching what goes into my mouth! Also, day four now without chocolate and it's not all that hard!
Congrats on your victories, Jolly!
Raven, I know what it's like when you slack off exercise for awhile, trying to re-build what you've lost is hard, but you can do it!
So far, I am not compensating in a high calorie way by giving up chocolate, yesterday I didn't have any snacks in between meals, even. That was unusual for me. I was just so darned busy, quite honestly. Maybe that's it! Stay busy, don't have time to eat? Plus, I have to admit this virus I have drags me down. I doubt I'll exercise or get on the treadmill today, just no energy. I was up half the night as was very congested. Yesterday, I came home from all my errands and went to bed instead of getting on line, just turned on the tv and electric blanket and laid there.
Red, my daughter is 14, son turns 17 on Wednesday. They are good kids, though the 17 year old has had his share of depression and this year his grades are terrible. We're working on it all.
Aren't we all a "work in progress"? I guess that is what some of this is all about, right? Some day, we'll all get it right!
Very interesting thought processes, Raven. You are right in pointing out that we can effect changes in ourselves when we know we HAVE to. I'm not a diabetic, but after hearing "news" after a colonoscopy last spring, that is when I really had a rude awakening that I had better get my act in gear here. I'm turning 50 on Friday, guys! So, as I "age" (gosh, what the heck happened to me, I feel like a kid still!) I've just got to lose the weight, eat the high fiber, low sugar and "good" proteins. I accept this, but the inner me (and the diva) are always fighting about this. The inner me, like a little spoiled brat wants the sugar, the ice cream, the snacks like chips and things. I have to learn to treat my "body like a temple" as they say.
i hope things go ok with your mom, Apple, my parents are aging rapidly and in bad shape. We've talked about assisted living as well, but so far they are on their own.
Well, time to get rolling. I'm here guys, not feeling awfully well, but here just the same. Time to make chicken soup?
Linda, ah-choooooo!

Hi all. Not really much to post over here. I have a whole Saturday, with really nothing to do. I can't work out. I can't ride :( Resting is probably a good thing - I will start weekends at my part time job in two weeks. The good thing is that it will free up my evenings a bit, the bad thing is that it is two 8 hour shifts every other weekend. Ah well, keep your eyes on the end goal, jolly, the end goal. I really want to start getting stuff like paint chips, etc, to really help me visualize my dream home. Not necessarily house plans, as that will be determined by what I can afford. But how I decorate is up to me. That should help make this easier. I am also a little bummed at not being able to work out, not being able to go by my horse (except to sneek him some treats), taping my face, etc. I just have to keep reminding myself that all the drama is for one month, then all this will be totally worth it.

Listen to me whine. I have so much good stuff going on, and I of course focus on the negative. Somebody slap me. See, this is why I need to work out.

I hope everyone has a GREAT day.

I’m trying hard to make the steps I take small, incremental, logical, reasonable. For example - I need to start moving my body to get physically fit to meet the demands of my newly chosen profession. Ok. I can understand that.

Next - I’m starting to notice I’m dehydrated a lot. I’m sweating while I’m working. I need to replace that with WATER, not more high in calories sweet tea. So that’s my next logical step. I need more water in my daily routine. It makes sense.

I’m down a half a pound. No, not a huge amount, but this is the rest of my life I’m talking about. Not one week.

Yesterday’s workout consisted of working with trying to get “fluent” with the hooves, for lack of a better word. Where to hold the rears so I can work on them with both hands. How to move them from the position of trimming on the bottom to the sides, then to the top. Walk the hoof around, don’t drop it and pick it up again. Was interesting training, both for me and my horses! Actually only worked with Arashi and Eve. Need to work on Shadow, too.

And then riding. We all rode our respective horses at the same time! I think that’s the first time that’s ever happened. Ian and V had a few exciting moments of unexpected cantering, but as usual, my horse had to be convinced he wanted to trot. ;) No one came off, and fun was had by all. Maybe we’ll do it again today!

On a positive, it looks like I may have gotten three (maybe four!) more “practice” horses. These are horses at Amanda’s barn which do not wear shoes, and I told Amanda to have the owners call me. I’ll do the trimming for free till I get my Practitioner in Training certification, then I’ll give them a really reduced rate. She thinks they’ll go for it. They can look at my horses feet if they want to see my work, so hopefully that will be enough. *keeping my fingers crossed*

Linda - You know.. there's something else. I developed a food allergy to certain fruits about a year or so ago. Funny thing is, once I figured out what it was, no matter how I LOVE apples, you couldn't pay me to eat one. Why? IT HURTS! It's scary! Now... if I can just cold turkey off so many of my favorite foods like that (it's many forms of fruit, sadly), WHY can't I just cold turkey off something because it makes me blow up like a balloon with fat? ;) Bah. Humans are weird.

Jolly - The end goal. I'm trying to keep that in mind right now, too. I'm scared, I'm so broke, and I wonder on an hourly basis if I'm doing the right thing. I'm stepping so far out of my "safety zone" it's not even funny. It's been kind of hard to bring my brain around to the positives. But slowly I'm getting there. When you say you can't work out, does that mean you can't MOVE? Go for a walk? Maybe do some floor work? Stretch? It will help your mind.

Red - *LOL* You're a kick. Too bad I can't get to your horse to practice, huh? So much of the time when I read what you're typing to me and the others, I hear you talking to yourself. I know I do that a lot... I use the thought process of explaining things to other people to learn things for myself. Of course in MY case that means that the three people closest to me are SICK of hearing about horse hooves!!! :eek: ;)

Apple - As Red said... no worries. We've all been there, done that, ranted, raved, *****ed, moaned... ;) It's all good. What job did you have working with animals?

Chach - You mean I'm going to have to go two weeks without seeing any posts from you!?!?!?! :yikes: Ok, that's harsh. ;) You sound like you need a break, chickie. I hope you have a great one.

5 down 35 to go. . .
 

Hello everyone. Finishing up Day 5 for me and I did OK! Had two near misses though when I went into the store and was about to buy cashews as usual before I remembered I'd given them up. That was close! I really wasn't thinking of it. It's not something I've ever really given up, thinking it was pretty healthy. And hurah, hurrah, I got to the gym today AFTER riding! That was major. I did it by taking my gym stuff riding and then went straight there. So today was a very good day, both eating wise and exercise wise. At last! My Valentine's Day present to myself, one day early. I weighed myself this morning and I am still way up from my starting weight this year but what the heck, gotta just keep at it.

******

Derry -- how are you feeling? I hope you get better quickly. I think that's amazing that you have still been able to eat right even though you're sick and NO chocolate. Maybe we're getting help from on high! And a birthday this week! How do you plan to handle that? It may be good to plan ahead so the chocolate monster doesn't get you. Also, how are you feeling about the number? I hope OK. I'll be 46 this summer and I know the feeling, I don't feel like a lot of people around me seem to think I should feel or the younger ones acting like I'm any different. I'll probably have to start developing a clothes sense or something as I've never had one. My clothes then can express what my face no longer will! (maybe never did!) :lol:

jolly -- whine away. I don't mind. It sounds like you have a tough time so whining may help you get some of the aggravation off your chest. You're whining but you're looking at good things too. I think that's the way to do it. If you don't give everything outlet it'll probably just fester inside you and sabotage you later. Let it out. Get it away! Can't you ride or exercise because of your eye? I guess so, right? Taping your face? What is that about?

Raven -- glad you're writing again. We really missed you. Your getting "fluent" with the hooves sounds very interesting. What kind of studying are you doing? Is it home studying? Correspondence? Or are you actually attending classes? What happened with work. If I can remember the last was the firing bomb? Maybe I missed something but I hope you did find something. Oh, I see you wrote to jolly about being broke so I guess you're concentrating on the horse stuff. I think you're doing the right thing. I wonder, since you're studying, do you think you could get some kind of student loan? I am so broke too. I go to sleep and wake up every day wondering how I'm going to pay the ballooning bills, the money I borrow at high interest. I want to stop it. I keep thinking work will come. I try not to panic. It's hard not too. Well, let's have faith it'll all work out and keep the hope. Good luck on the new clients! :sunny:

Red ! Ok, you drop that little tease about your ride, then don't say anything about how it went? How is your horse? How is the riding going? C'mon, you know you have at least two horse junkies on this thread, throw us a bone. ;) I am focusing on the horses as a career, yes indeed. I am going through the American Association of Natural Hoofcare Practitioners to get certified. That's why I was in Arkansas last week, studying with Jaime Jackson. The classes I take are in person, and on top of that, I have tons of books to read, videos to watch, and I'm encouraged to practice on my own horses and others, if folks will let me. Once I get my Practitioner in Training (a little bit like being an "apprentice") certification, the AANHCP will list me on their website, refer clients to me, etc. If I'm ever uncertain about something, I call one of my mentors or instructors and work with them on it. It's extremely comprehensive. It will involve many, many classes - not just concerning the hoof, but the entire horse. Feed, saddling, environment, the whole bit. My next three classes involve teaching live trimming, hoof anatomy (yay, disection), and then a couple days of mentorship. That's when I get my PT cert. In the meantime, I'm trying to scrounge up "practice horses" and I'll be trying to do temp office work just to keep some money coming in so I can pay ye olde bills. Damn them. *sigh* :D Once I get things rolling, I'll start offering ground training along with the hoof care, since I seem to have a talent in that area. My business is The Naked Hoof, and I'm working on my website now. Slowly. *lol*

Today will be my "day of rest." Maybe. I might have a practice horse to do, we shall see if she calls. Lance is a big poofball percheron. Such a wonderful, sweet horse. But his hooves haven't been trimmed since october, and they need it badly. Yesterday was all about wrestling with Shadow. :D I swear - just when I think I might be getting it, that horse will humble me. I learn more from her than any other horse. The big mistake was that V worked her before I did her hooves, and when Shadow gets tired, she will NOT hold up her hooves. She'll sink right down to the ground. So I have to work very quickly in short bursts, then put the hoof down and let her rest for a minute or two... then another burst. Ends up taking a long time. But .. it's a learning process, indeed.

I'm sore and creaky, but it's ok. My body feels like it fell asleep and it's waking up. That alternating "omg no I don't want to move it hurts!" feeling and the "aaagh move move move move I have to move" feeling. :^: Am I really weird?

My kids are following suit, and both of them are hopping on the treadmill now, too. If I ever needed a reason to be a good example, seeing how quickly they jump on the bandwagon should be as good a reason as I need.

Red - Lets win the lottery, ok? :D

Hey all. Yes, I can MOVE, but can't do anything that might raise blood pressure and temp. Wednesday I can work out again, and Thursday I have a personal trainer sesssion. No matter how many times I told the new gym I couldn't work out right away, and had a zillion perky little personal trainers leaving messages about setting up my session. I even got one 15 minutes after I got home from my surgery. Sheesh. So, to relieve THEIR anxiety, I scheduled it already. As for the tape thing, I have to tape shields over my eyes when I sleep, to prevent any rubbing that might disturb the eyes. Sucks, but is keeping them healthy.

I did stop in by my boy today to drop off a few things. He is not pleased with me, and I have 10 more days before I can ride. I did order some training equipment, and gave him some treats, but he was not amused. Ah well.

Anyway. Take care everyone, and have a great evening.

Monday check in
 

Jolly, why do you need to tape your face? Why can't you work out? Maybe I missed a point someplace.
I'll bet you are frustrated, though, as it sounds like you are on the verge of several things, and anxious to just get rolling. I'd be anxious as well.
Raven, my son can't eat apples, peaches and strawberries, they hurt him as well. Allergies really run in our family, I sympathize.
Speaking of being broke and stepping far out of your safety zone, we are going to be doing the same thing. My DH can't take it any more, he's just had it. He's giving his resignation at work this week and we won't have any income, period. I'm really scared, but he will have a heart attack if he puts up with this any longer. That is that. We're going to have to make a mad scramble and re-group. Every penny we spend will have to be examined and I'm afraid WW meetings will not be in the budget for us. We will be eating by what is on sale at the stores as opposed to what we like, as well, Might be a problem as far as weight gain, but I have to keep trying. I can't lose perspective on what I have done so far and gain my weight back. I've worked way too hard.
Red, it sounds like you are doing so well! Congrats on the 5 days! I had a "slip" unintentionally yesterday. After a great discussion about curtailing expenses we decided to go to a local shopping mall to renegotiate our cell phone contracts, which we did. On the way out the door (as it was near lunchtime) I grabbed a ww 2 points bar (which is chocolate caramel) and left the house. In the car, I was eating it, and my DH looked over and said "you're eating chocolate" - Gosh, I had the end of it in my mouth and had already eaten it at that point. I had totally forgotten. But, for the rest of the time, and continuing further into Lent, I plan on being good!
This will be a rough week, emotions are very high and it's my son's birthday Wednesday and my birthday Friday and we plan on going away for the weekend. I hope to not blow it!
I was really good all weekend, amazing considering everything that is going on.
Linda

Good morning all. Derry, I had Lasik surgery on my eyes. They do not want you to work out or do anything that will raise your blood pressure for one week, so that you don't put extra pressure on the eyes. Luckily, that is done in a couple of days. I have to tape plastic shields over my eyes when I go to bed every night for another couple of weeks. that is so that I don't disturb the flap cut in my cornea while it is healing. My thoughts are with you too, as your husband finds new work. I hope it all goes smoothly, and be gentle with yourself during this stressful time.

I really need to control my eating. Between having money and the lack of gym time, I have been using every excuse to eat, eat, eat, eat, eat. Not ok. Here's to healthy eating.

Hey, all.. no time to post tonight. I am dead tired. Must get to sleep. just did a super fast glance through. Derry, that chocolate doesn't count. It was an honest mistake. You didn't do it intentionally. Sin absolved. I have decreed! Carry on. :dancer:

Derry - Wow. I admire the guts it takes to walk away from a rotten situation. What does your husband want to pursue? I think a huge part of my problem, and I see it in my daughter, too, is that I didn't know what I wanted to be when I grew up. :D My son seems convinced (at this point, and for about the last year or more) that he wants to be an equine chiropractor. I support him fully, but also tell him if he changes his mind, I'll understand. My daughter waffles... she can't decide. My bf is the same way. He always did whatever just fell into his lap. It turned out to be alright moneywise - he's not rich, but he makes a decent living. But he's utterly miserable working where he does, doing what he does. I can see his interest in network security, but he won't push to pursue it. He won't step out of the safety zone. Maybe once I get my hoof care business established and I can take over the financial burdens, he'll feel more free to take that leap. It's scary. Keep us posted.

Jolly - Boy it doesn't take much to fall into boredom eating, does it? Or at least for me anyway.

Red - Hope you got some rest!

Well, it's raining and yucky here today. Yay. Things I need to do, call the temp agencies and see if I can get some work drummed up. Get on the treadmill. Go to Walmart. Actually LOOK at my bank account and see how much money I have left. Ok, that last one is undoubtedly the scariest of the bunch. The fear of "what if I only have $20 left!?!?" is all over me. *sigh* So I think I'll just browse the web for a while longer........ avoidance is a lovely thing. :o

Edited - Ok, I faced my greatest fear and checked my money situation. It's not good. I have enough cash on hand to last me for about one more week of groceries. That's it. Towards that end - I have already contacted two temp agencies. One of which I worked with closely when I was with my old job and she knows how hard I work, so hopefully she can get me working immediately. The application has been submitted, the resume sent. The other agency I have an appointment with on Wednesday. Honestly, I'd like to be working Wednesday. Hopefully Carolyn can put me into something. But at least things are a known now.

Hello Ladies,

Cough, cough, sniff achoooo...

Yep, like our friend Linda, I am very very sick. Got it yesterday after spending 2.5 hours shampooing all of our carpets. We bought the shampooer last year and haven't used it yet. Amazing how dirty the carpets get. I felt totally exhausted afterwards and kicked myself in the butt for doing it! I couldn't take anything high-powered for the cold as hubby was at drill and I was at home with my son. I wanted to take some of that "knock you out for a day" medicine, but no go.

Promotion ceremony was nice, but very emotional. It was good to see so many people come out and support hubby. I don't think he realizes how many people's lives he touches.

My snacking is good. With this flu bug, I really don't want to eat much of anything. That is a plus.

Yes, I will be gone and missing from the thread for two weeks. I will miss talking with you all, but am in such desperate need of a rest that it isn't even funny.

And I would like to just say that with all of you and your struggles, it once again reminds me that life can change immediately with sometimes a devastating effect. I'm thankful that I am where I am right now, because without the extra money we wouldn't be able to help out our families. I know what it's like to go through some big financial problems. I actually had to declare bankruptcy about 15 years ago, so I know what it's like. I hope your situations don't get as bad as mine were.

Happy Valentine's Day everyone.

Chach

Tuesday am
 

Now, I get it, Jolly. I couldn't imagine taping your face and what that had to do with your surgery. How is your vision now? How much did this all cost, by the way? Can they help an astigmatism? I thought that it was only near or far sightedness?
Thanks for absolving my sins, Red, I felt the same way as well. Plus it was a ww bar! Who are we kidding, those things taste "ok", but if I REALLY wanted chocolate, that is NOT what I would go for, for sure! I made it through Valentines Day beautifully! My husband is making a donation in my honor rather than giving me chocolate, by the way, to a teen drug and alcohol abuse prevention center, which was my choice. I like that idea! We all have our addictions, mine are not drug and alcohol, mine has been chocolate, I guess! You know, I am feeling (even though I feel like my life is falling apart, totally) so in control of my eating. I really do find myself wondering if chocolate triggers lots of overeating, not just the chocolate itself. I weigh in today and we shall see. Even though DH will be unemployed, I may be able to keep up my ww meetings for a period of time as I am a Lifetime member and lifetime members only need to pay and weigh in once a month. If you are something like 2 pounds over goal you do pay. Maybe I can work really hard and get closer to goal, maybe this will be my motivation?
DH went to the doctor yesterday as well, with chest pain, had an EKG and blood work and they will be doing a stress test next week. He is under such stress, he just had got to find other work. I maintained calm through all of this, surprisingly. Normally, I'd have run for the cupboard and inhaled food. Don't know if it's cleansing my body of chocolate or something else, but I am glad. I took out my own frustrations with the vacuum cleaner!
Chach, hope you feel better soon and get really better before your trip, but just rest and relax.
Yes, life can change in a moment. I have to believe that whatever is happening is for the best, as with Raven too. Who knows where we all might end up, but you have to be brave and continue on - we all have no choice. I heard about a job yesterday, for me part time. It's really not what I want to do, and kind of far from the house. Not sure if I will apply or not, it's a friend referencing me into it, so I know if I applied I would get it. It's working 7:00 am - 11:00 am doing housekeeping at a prep school (ever heard of Exeter Phillips Academy) dormitory. It's really not hard work, and I'd be getting exercise (which is a plus). But, it's quite the "come down" (though I am not really caring about that at all) from my former career as a Director of Human Resources before I became a stay at home parent. It would be a nice, easy, part time job. I could probably listen to book on tape while I work and, as I said, get exercise. But, it's about 45 minutes from my house, one way, and I think I should look closer to home.
The only place I can think of where I could probably get immediate work and the schedule I want is MacDonald's or Burger King, and I am not sure I could handle the "temptation" - or would it work the opposite and gross me out for fried foods? Hmmm.....
Linda

Hi everyone. Making a bit of time to write here, catch up and all.

I rode and went to the gym today and yesterday AND the day before. Heh! That's three days in a row! Wow, I've done so much it didn't seem like that. Now, if I could just see some change (downward of course!) in my weight. I am sooo discouraged but I just must keep at it. I haven't been consistent at all and then I do good for a few days and I expect major changes! Oh well, it's hard.

Raven -- Riding is tough as usual, frustrating, expensive. My horse is doing fine I think. Today she was so cute. I had cut up carrots and hung it in a bag next to her stall where I usually do and I don't think the stall door is usually closed. I'm not away for long, just getting things ready before I ride. Well, I came back in and from the end of the row I see carrot slices strewn all around her stall! I called out her name in a stern voice and when I get to her stall she's up against the back wall looking at me like, "I don't know, it wasn't me. I've been back here all the time." It was so funny that she though I was going to get angry. She knew she shouldn't have been trying to get that bag off the hook and eat the carrots! It must have been hard to do too because even with the door open there's a bar across the door and the hook is pretty far away. She must have really stretched and then to knock it off the hook too. Ah, it was funny. I just scolded her with my voice a bit but I certainly couldn't be angry. My fault for leaving them there and all and of course she's going to go after them. But that back against the wall. She came forward when I went to pick up all the carrots in her stall and in front and then I said sternly, "Heidi, you're a bad girl!" and she went running off to the back of the stall again. :lol: Gosh, the way she reacted you'd think I was really mean to her which of course I'm not. She just must have thought she'd done a really naughty thing.

Well, Raven, good luck finding practice horses. I would be scared I'd screw up someone's feet. Do you think you're good at it, that you have a knack for it? The Naked Hoof?! Sounds a bit kinky! :lol: The farrier loves Heidi. She picks up her feet so easily and just stands there doing nothing for however long he wants. She really is a doll. I'm afraid I'm getting to like her too much. But she is hard to hard. I'm working on that though. She squeals and runs off when she spooks or gets full of herself, which is rare but the others remark on her squealing. The percheron sounds lovely. I love cold-bloods. Heidi is part Haflinger, which I guess you know is a cold-blood pony. Your Shadow sounds tough. Do you think she's OK, not wanting to hold up her hooves. Not a feed problem or lack of energy, is it? You mentioned she didn't want to trot. Well, best of luck to you! You can talk all the horse you want. Anyone whose eyes glaze over can just scroll to the bottom! Well, Raven, hope you get some work quick. Today is the last day to apply to go the races in Dubai and I'm sitting here corresponding with them by email and still undecided as to whether to apply. It's not cheap like the Hong Kong package and I really think I shouldn't go. A friend there says its great and should go. A friend in racing here says it's not worth it. I could probably cover some of the expenses by selling some stories on the race but I don't know, it would likely still be a loss. If I had money I'd go, wouldn't hesitate but I don't know, it's not something I really want to do either. I was just thinking some work may come my way if I went. The UAE people have opened farms here and have a lot of horses in training. I'm thinking I could be doing work for them and thought it may be good to see their operation in Dubai. Then again, what for, really? Everyone will be busy, busy with the race. Ahhh, I hate not being able to decide!

jolly -- how are your eyes? It sure sounds involved, that surgery, the after care and all. Hope they heal real quick. Is your horse getting any exercise? turnout? Can you lunge him?

chachee -- how are you? Are you feeling any better? What a lousy time to get sick, right before you go away. Hope you get better soon too.

derry -- ah, so your husband has finally decided to quit that awful place he works, with that awful boss. yes, I remember your telling me about it. In fact, I had thought maybe he had already left and you just hadn't said anything or I had missed it. Sometimes that is the only way to do it, just quit, whether you can or not, I mean, whether you're really prepared for it, with money and all. I'm in the same situation still and I think of doing the same thing. I hate the office so much. I think things have a way of working out for those who jump in like you are doing, or rather, jump out, but IN to the cosmos! You will be provided for. You are opening yourself up for things to come to you I believe. We must have faith, right? Best of luck to you and your husband! Yes, I'm with Raven in saying, it's very admirable what you're doing. Heh, that sounds good with WW. It would be a good incentive for you to keep you weight down and then not have to pay. Gosh, is your husband ok. Wow, it sounds awful, chest pains and all. I know how it is, my legs are still bad, and I think it's all from the stress of last year. Back then I was sooo stressed I would feel like electricity running down my legs when I would get upset at work, which was always! Total idiots. I have no money now but I feel a lot better. Sure hope your husband's OK. When is he quitting? Soon? The work offer housekeeping may not be so bad. I have done it before and there's nothing bad about it. I think it would be relaxing in fact whereas fast food joints are pretty stressful and full of rules and yes, you would probably be reaching for the food. . well, you can't do that while you're working. . but afterward. . you'd probably be taking stuff home, especially if they gave you a discount, which I think they might.

**********

OK, gotta get some work done here. Hope everyone checks in soon. :wave:

Hey all - quick post then back to work. I have to say I really admire everyone who is holding up to their Lenten resolutions. Me? I guess it is a good thing I am not Catholic. I seem to be living like "eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow I can again work out." I really hope the obnoxiously perky little trainer does kick my butt Thursday night. I need it.

As for the surgery - my vision is great. The after care is really only for the first month to make sure they heal properly. It cost $2000 total. I don't know if it cures astigmatism. And my horse is getting ridden for me while I am off.

I have to share a cute story, Red. When I got my first horse, I of course had to get her a Christmas stocking for the holidays, loaded with treats. The next year, I decorated her stall for hte holidays, and of course hung the stocking back up - not to fill until Christmas of course. Well, she saw the stocking and figured FOOD, and dragged it into her stall. The barn owner freaked at first when she saw red in the stall - the mare tried to bury the evidence by digging a hole and covering it up!!

Have a good day all, and keep up the good work. I know I will be back with you soon.

Hey all, just checking in. Seems like I'm not doing much about weight loss these days. Sometimes thats' when I suprise myself and lose anyway. I'm not gaining, so I'm OK with it for now.
I worked in a kennel for a while and right after college I worked at a wildlife rehabilitaion center for a year. It was the hardest, most physical, and least paying job I've ever had. It was also the most interesting and rewarding. I thought about being a vet so I worked as an assistant for a little while. I found that while I loved the patients, their owners could be a real pain...not really a people person.
So now I have 2 dogs and 2 cats, about all I can handle with 3 small kids. Someday I want to expand my menagerie, some chickens, goats...don't know about horses. That's a whole other world.
Well, I'll just be cruising along for now. Time for some housework. Bye!

By the way Linda, my husband did a similar thing a couple of years ago, he couldn't stand his boss and work was miserable, which effects the whole family. He was afraid to look around for another job because if word got back to his boss he might get fired, but it all worked out and we are all happier now. Fortunately he went right from one job to the next so we had no finacial worries. Hope everything works out for you! I'm sure it will. :)

Hi guys! Good and bad day..... First the good news! I made my 10% WW goal today, finally! I've not lost 17 pounds! I lost 2.8 this week, unheard of! Must be a combination of that inner diva and the giving up Chocolate! I'm so pleased!
My DH is ok, and home, but it was quite a scare. He is still having chest pain, but his EKG was "ok". They did bloodwork and will do a stress test at the hospital on Thursday. So, we'll see.
He's not yet given notice, as his boss has been away. Maybe that is a good thing as we truly need to assess what's going on with the chest pain before taking action. He's confident that he'll be ok, though. I worry, that's my job, right?
Linda

Derry, congrats on your weight loss! That is a MUCH deserved loss and something I'm sure you needed now in this stressful time. I still think your husband should quit. My father went through the same thing because of stress at his work. He was probably the same age as your husband is now. I remember him being rushed to the hospital with chest pains, did the EKG, all that, they found nothing, but yes, next time maybe something will have manifested itself in a more concrete way, the actual heart attack, not just the pains. If you can do it at all, please do it. I have seen too many people literally die from stress-related work here, in fact, the Japanese have a word for it! And how many other people don't outright die but develop diseases. It's not worth it. If your husband stays in this situation you may have the money to pay bills but if you get out I think you will not have the bills at all in the first place. At least give notice. That will take a lot of pressure off him. Well, just my advice.

He gave notice this morning, Red. I have to admit to being really scared. We could stand to lose so much if he can't get another job right away, but we won't go down without a fight.
I've never seen my husband so miserable before, so perhaps even giving notice will help his stress level?
As for me, I indulged in birthday cake last night.... my son's 17th birthday. It was vanilla, not chocolate, his choice. I snuck applesauce into the cake mix instead of oil and no one noticed the difference! I have to get on the treadmill this afternoon to "pay" for it all, but it was good.
Friday is my own birthday and we are going to visit my inlaws for the weekend. I always don't do well weight wise when we go there, but I shall survice. Acheiving the 10% goal made me realized that even though I've had many setbacks and a few gains off and on, I will truly acheive what I intend to do!
Linda

Hi all. Derry - congrats on the loss. I hope things work out for you and your family. If your husband has good skills and a good work history, I am sure he will find something even better soon.

Well, I am feeling pretty good this morning. I actually made a healthy choice for breakfast, instead of the junk I have been eating. AND . . . (drumroll please), I did go to the gym. My workout got interrupted, first by having to run out and turn off the lights I had left on, then a page from work. But, I went. And tomorrow night is my personal trainer session. I'm sure that will be a kick in the butt. Then . . . for one more NSV, I had to stop at the store for some stuff for my group homes, and started to buy a bag of the Reeses Pieces easter eggs (huge candy coated reeses pieces). I had already indulged in a bag of hershey eggs, so I was able to put those back. I may end up getting a bag before the season is out, but I don't need them every day.

Have a great day all.

Good morning, ladies.

Linda: Great job on the 10%! I know how exciting that is. It is a huge accomplishment and one to celebrate. I'm keeping you and your hubby in my prayers. I know it will be tough for you guys, but I'm sure the right thing will come along quickly.

Red: Howdy you! How is Lent going? Mine has been going well, especially with being sick. I'm not all that hungry anyway, so the need to snack is just not there.

Apple: How is the battle with the beer going? As long as it's light beer, you should be okay. Me, I like a dark and thick beer. Something with a strainer, you know! :)

Jolly: Good for you on your NSV's. Getting to the gym and not buying the additional candy. Great job.

I'm still very sick. Tonight I get my nails done and am treating myself to a pedicure. Haven't had one in about five months, so it's time. Plus, I want pretty toes for walking on the beach with my hubby this coming weekend.

Then I am off to buy a gift for a baby shower. Tomorrow is last minute shopping for relatives in Oregon, then giving the doggies a bath. Friday night is shower and relax before we leave. Ahhh...

Alright, Happy Wednesday.

Chach

Hi guys!
Chach, sorry you still aren't feeling well. I know exactly what that is like! I'm surviving my days with Advil cold and sinus as my "best friend" right now! This, too, shall pass, right?
DH officially gave notice this morning. So, here we go....
Early this afternoon, I applied for a part time job at the local MacDonalds. They say you can design your own shift, so I figured it might be a good place to start. Wonder if I could stay away from the fries?
Linda

Hi to everyone.

Thinking of you all lots.

Kathy

A quickie here as I've got to get ready to leave.

Derry -- Congratulations on your husband giving notice. This is BIG!! I feel your fear and those are not empty words as I am tottering on the edge of making the leap myself and what keeps me from jumping is largely fear of the unknown. I AM making inroads in other areas. The thing is, they are WORKING and I know I am going to have to make that leap and I feel the fear and am in danger of giving up. Derry, this is meant to be. You have to open yourself up for better things in order for them to come along. You and your family will not regret this and I feel that if you weren't capable of handling this fine you wouldn't be put in this position. Of course you're scared. But breathe deep, center yourself. You're not going to go down. You're going to draw on your resources, and these are great, you're going to calmly and assuredly, with the power of knowing this IS the right move, the only move, allow what supports you to come to you. Join forces with it and you will be all the more powerful.

Excellent with the vanilla cake. See, no chocolate! Enjoy your birthday. Stay off the chocolate. Remember, it's about Lent, not dieting. Hope you feel better soon!

jolly -- Excellent work!! You keep it up. Stay away from the Easter candy though before the bunny brings it!!

Chachee -- you sound strong with your no snacking for Lent. Good for you! I am doing stellar with my Lenten promise, no sugar, none of the other three things either. The sugar and the nuts is hard giving up but I'm doing it!! Hurrah! Sorry to hear you're sick as well. I've never had a pedicure or manicure. Too embarrasing I think at this point. My feet are ugly but good feet! and my hands are ravaged from working outdoors at the stable.

luckycharm -- what's this! a superflyby!! Come on in and chat!!

Lucky, nice to hear from you. Hope all is well.
Red, your remarks are empowering. Thanks.
I've never had a manicure or pedicure either. My feet are ugly too!
Hey, so far we've all been awfully good with the Lent thing. Just goes to show what some will power really accomplishes! I feel really good without chocolate, this is truly teaching me that it does not control me, I control it - just like all food.
I also control my destiny. I am scared, have to admit I am. We are in a percarious position and have two kids awfully close to college, so I don't want to lose what it's taken us ages to gather (not that it's much anyway). So, we just HAVE to make it all work.
DH is a great guy, he's much luckier than I am! He has that on his side. We are both survivors.
By the way, his boss is freaking out, booking an early flight home and is offering all kinds of things to get DH to stay. He even offered a month off, thinking that this chest pain thing is "it" and that he needs to "rest". I was thinking that the month off thing sounded good, but DH will just not go for it. It would buy us time. However, he wants to sever all ties and move on. I think for him to be well and be at peace, he must do the move. This has been going on way too long.
Ha! One of the reasons why the boss from _ell is panicked is that DH does his job for him and he knows it!
Linda

Hey chicks -

This is rather a fly-by from me, as well. I'm reading, lurking... but my anxiety level is getting very high. I'm officially out of money, and I still have no income.

I'm pushing pretty hard on the temp front, but I really did go too long before starting to really look for work. Hopefully something will come through very soon.

Raven, I could be in your shoes in about two months, I can totally relate. Can you ask family members for help? Can you put items up for sale on e-bay that might generate some cash? Have a yard sale?
If you need work, why not try waitressing. Years ago, I was married to someone else (seems like another person's life now when I think back as I've been married to my DH for almost 21 years now) at age 19 and divorced at age 20 and when I left him, I had resigned from my job as I was having migrane headaches and miserable there. I didn't realize until later on that it was my marriage that was my problem, not my job, but by then it was too late and I had quit my job. I was able to find a job immediately waitressing, it's not fun and it's tiring, but the immediacy of tips on the first night helped me. I literally had $2.00 in my wallet, 1/4 tank of gas and was sleeping on a friend's sofa. The tips on my first night enabled me to get going again and from then on, I conserved and got my act in gear until I was able to find something else full time.
Foor pantrys are good as well.
Considering that they let you go, are you eligible for unemployment? If you've been denied, ask for a hearing.
I will be praying for you!
As for me, I must be reacting emotionally to what is going on in my life. I just NEVER end the day not using all my ww points, but I actually did that yesterday and ended the day with 3 points left. I have to watch that, as I know that in order to lose weight, you really need to provide your body with enough nutrients, otherwise it holds onto fat, thinking it's being starved. I don't usually NOT eat when I am stressed, don't quite know why this is going on. One thing I have noticed, though, is that without having a constant "high" from chocolate, my emotions are more in check and even though things are not going well, I have not been craving chocolate and figuring out ways to work it into my day. Do you all think chocolate could be an addictive substance? Have there been any studies?
Linda

Hey all. I only have time for a fly by as well. work is CRAZY!!!!!! I am thinking of all of you, and hope things work out soon. I know what stress can do to you. I will try, in between bills, shopping, dogs, work, work, and more work, to get online again tonight. Take care all

Good morning, ladies.

Pedicures....I always thought that I had ugly feet, but you know what? So does everyone else! I do them about every other month and they keep my feet nice and soft, not so dry which is a problem up here during the Winter months. I just save the money out of my "allowance" and when I have enough saved, then I get it done.

Thanks, again, to being sick I really still have no appetite. I had a bagel this morning, and probably will have half of a chicken burrito left over from dinner last night for lunch, and maybe some cup'o'soup for dinner, but that is about it. (Unless you count cough drops!)

Linda: You know, working at McD's might help you not want to eat that type of food. I know working at the state fair cured me of curly fries and corn dogs! Be sure to keep us updated to see what the job tries to offer DH to keep him....

Raven: I'm keeping my fingers crossed something comes through for you soon. It's just gotta.

Red: So glad you have been able to keep up with Lent. Great job. Believe me, I know some people that go in to have their feet and hands done have it far worse than yours sound. I was a little weirded out by having someone else touch my feet and scrub the old skin off, but I figure that is what they do, and they must not mind it much, because it pays very well.

Hi to Lucky, Hippy and Happy!

Okay, I gotta get back to work. I might not have a chance to check in tomorrow, as I am going to be swamped, so I'll sign off for now until I get back on March 7th.

I'll be keeping everyone in my prayers and thoughts as you all deal with your struggles. I know it's gotta get better soon. I'm off to help out my parents who are having quite the struggle themselves. Thank goodness I'm in a position to help them now.

Happy February and beginning of March!

Take Care!

Chach

Morning all. Gulping down my oatmeal before I get off for the gym before work. This is going to make it six days in a row! that I've gotten to the gym AND worked out.

derry -- how is the fright factor? You husband giving notice is going to finally put you in gear, not spinning the wheels mode. Don't worry. Things will work out for sure. Oh, and chocolate is definitely addictive. It has caffeine in it. So, your high was also very real, not just an emotional thing. Same as coffee. When your body doesn't get it it screams for it. Luckily, the withdrawal doesn't take as long as nicotine or other drugs but the effects are more subtle and people don't realize how deeply they are affected by it. You're doing your body and mind a great help by getting off the stuff.

raven -- best of luck to you. I read your post on my phone last night. Was going to boot up the computer to reply but I see derry has said the same thing. Go for unemployment if you can. Credit? Anything there? Could you sell your body? Just kidding. There's got to be something. Just try not to panic. Think of the money flowing in. Somehow it will if you stay out of fear mode.

jolly -- hello there! Glad to hear from you. Hope you're doing OK? :sunny:

Chachee -- you have a good trip. Sure wish you felt better for it though. Maybe you'll get better fast once you're off. How good that you can help your parents out of a tight spot now. Have fun while you're there. Tell us all when you get back. :wave:

Hi all. I am ok, just a bit stressed and busy. A lot going on at work right now. Iam doing 3 peoples jobs. I was a bit bad, and let my boss deal with a couple of staff issuses. I feel guilty doing that, as I feel like I am not doing my job, but honestly, it would have been enough to send me over the edge. Some stuff came up though, that really made me doubt myself again. I hate that. Any negative, and I feel like I am a bad person. Sigh. When will I grow up??

Anyway, I hope Chachee has a good trip, things pick up soon for Derry and Raven, and Red continues to triumph over Lent. Talk to you all later.

Just read everyone's posts....
First, just want to say that DH had his stress test at the hospital yesterday and his heart is ok. Whatever is causing the chest pain is NOT his heart. That is a relief, but something is still getting to him, is it all stress? Seems quite odd that there is no explanation. Acid refulx? Ulcers? I guess we will continue to seek answers and at least it's not as stressful knowing his heart is ok. That was pretty scary.
His boss was trying to convince him to give a one month vs. two week notice, then also offering him time off to "think", also offering him a 2 or 3 day a week schedule with pro-rated pay and medical benifits. I was kind of hoping he'd think about the latter of these proposals for awhile, but he just wants to sever all ties and remove himself. I can understand, but I am worried (just like Raven) about how to put food on the table and keep our house, etc.
Raven, I was thinking about mentioning that you could check local newspapers and see if anyone is advertising for babysitting. I know it's not a career or anything, but it could fill in the gap temporarily. Are there stables that would hire you to curry and feed the horses in return to boarding your own horses? I'm thinking for you, my dear!
I am really contemplating a yard sale in about a month. It's really poor weather here in NH for something like that now, but we could manage that as spring approaches. That would put ready cash in our pockets and I truly have been marking several items as yard sale things and putting them away in my attic.
If unemployment has been denied to you, what about public welfare? There must be something!
I'll keep thinking.
Linda

Hey all. Just a quick pop in. I rescheduled my personal trainer session for tomorrow. I hope I can make it as my back went out last night. I am moving pretty funny. Hopefully it will feel better soon. Maybe with some muscle relaxers and whiskey? Anyway. Not much else to report. Hello to everyone, and i hope things are going ok.

Hi Jolly! Wish I had a personal trainer! Oh well.
Hey, just so you know, I did get on my treadmill for 40 minutes today, though.
On my home scale, I weighed 144 with all my clothes on AFTER eating lunch, that was a first. Of course, the scales at WW weigh me, usually, about 2 - 3 pounds heavier, but the one here at home never has gone that low. I had a shirt and sweater on as well as jean too!
We are going away tomorrow morning to RI for the weekend, to visit my in laws. I'll probably be fed ALL weekend and will probably have wine too, so if I come back heavier - at least I am at a "low" now!
You all might not hear from me until Sunday afternoon or Monday morning. Have a great weekend, Raven I am sending BAT to help you plan your new life. I'm routing for you!
Linda

Wow, Derry, congratulations on that super new low weight. :bravo: You must be well under 144 if you did all that clothed and after eating. Fantastic. :cp: Oh, I can't wait to see the day I get there myself!!