Hi everybody!

I'm still here...just wicked busy with the writing. I'm so happy to finally have some way of contributing money to the family, real money...like in a couple of years I might even make more than dh :D It's so tough being a SAHM when you are the one paying the bills and you KNOW how little money there is. So, I have an inside track on something that *might* turn out to be my "big break" --like really really hugely wonderful--but then again, it could always turn out to be a scam. People tend to take advantage of writers, a lot. SO keep me in your prayers...I'm working like a dog for this guy trying to prove that I can do the job and do it fast.

I'm sucking downt the caffeine and not getting much water in. Gotta fix that! And I did finally get the garage looking like a gym again, though it's been too hot to go out there. Thank goodness for dance class--at least I get to exercise. My eating is pretty good, but I'm not really losing. I'm at a solid 207 now...which is still way better than where I was about 6 weeks ago. I know once I start lifting weights, things will start moving.

Welcome Marsha!! I'm 37, married, stay-at-home-mom of 3. I'm a writer and bellydance teacher. I never could get a picture of me for the avatar thingie, but if you want to see me and my girls, my dance website is www.aaminahdance.com I'm the artistic director, my dance name on the site is Mira

Amanda, I so envy your exercise determination. I just gotta make myself doit! I'm so proud of you...

Faye, I so DO NOT miss cockroaches! Thomas is growing up so fast, it's amazing.

Carrie, hope your tummy is feeling better. You'll be back in onederland in no time!

Nikki--hang in there with the parent thing...don't let the stress keep you from your running, that might just be what saves you!

Susan--I don't remember what's up with you lately, but I hope you're doing well and in a happy quilting place :lol:

Well, I've procrastinated for an hour, now it's time to write. Thank god this publisher is in California! I get a jump on the day before he's even out of bed!

TTFN,
Julie

Welcome, Marsha! I'm 63 years young, no children but one spoiled cat. We're glad to have you aboard.

The heat has hit here - 100 degrees yesterday and today and high humidity. We did have some rain over the weekend that was badly needed.

I've been enjoying summer fruits - have strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, peaches, nectarine, cantaloupe, grapes and cherries - that I'm snacking on this week. Keeps the sweet tooth satisfied.

Went to the Gwyne's Island Festival with 2 of my friends on Saturday. Great art for sale (didn't buy any), lots of food (we didn't have any because we wanted quiche for lunch at our favorite restaurant in Mathews), and entertainment.

Faye, your gs just gets more adorable by the day. I know he brings you great joy. I'd pretty much be like you if I didn't work and quilt - they keep me busy. It's hard when you are alone too much.

Amanda, you'll be back to onederland in no time - keep up the good work!

Hello to all the rest of you.

Susan

Thanks for the warm welcome, ladies. I really appreciate it! It will take a few days for me to get to know everyone, but thanks to those of you have filled me in a bit.

Actually quite nice here in MN today. We have had some high temps and a ton of humidity over the weekend, but the air feels much better today. Did some exercises in the morning - part of the Cruise plan that I think is good. it is just 8 minutes of exercising in the morning - a different group of muscles each day. Supposed to start metabolism and firm up. I can tell a difference. Then did a half hour walk. Am drinking my water today, too. The two points for OP I have a question about - are you all on WW? CAn I get two points for eating healthy and staying within my plan for the day? Was very good yesterday until I drove a couple of hours to Minneapolis last night to meet DD and go to a Twins game. We ate supper at The Spaghetti Factory because you can walk to the stadium from there. NOt too bad - we shared a dinner, but then had a beer and some peanuts at the ballgame :(

Faye - I hear you on that rodent thing. I am not too bad if I know they are there like in a cage or something, but if there were one loose in my house, I would have to move!

Amanda - Sounds like things are really moving in the right direction for you. WTG girl - putting in all that time at the gym.

Julie - checked out your website - awesome! What a beautiful bunch of gals! My neice has been bellydancing this year and loves it! I have a little too much belly to dance with right now!

Susan - love the fresh fruit, too - but have trouble when I buy it because I can't get it all eaten, then have to throw away. Now I am enjoying like only one or two things at a time.

Carri - I am 5 pounds from being in the 100 range - can't wait to get there, but have really stalled this month. Hope to get it moving this week.

Nikki - read through the posts for this week. -Sounds like things are a bit rough for you righ now - hope that things improve for you.

Take care everyone - again, thanks from the bottom of my heart for the warm welcome to your group!
Marsha

Hi all,

I got another 4 points yesterday - yay! Nothing much else to report - went for a swim today and did 26 lengths! I remember when I first started swimming, I could only swim for 8 lengths. I am really happy with the way my diet and exercise is going at the moment - the weight is gradually shifting, I'm toning up and slimming down big time, my mood is lifted and I've got lots of energy! I think the fact that we are into Summer is really helping me - I love summer fruits and berries, salad and lots of water. My only downfall at the moment is ice cream - it's just so hot, but I am managing to keep it within my calorie allowance!

Marsha - I am 32 years old and am engaged to be married to my long term partner. As you may have noticed, we are planning a Caribbean wedding - nothing is booked yet though - I want to lose all my weight first. I suffer from severe depression at times and am unable to work right now. I keep myself busy by going to the gym, reading and lavishing lots of love on my cat, Marley! When I started my diet on 1st Jan this year I was at my highest weight ever of 267lb - I lose weight VERY slowly, but have managed to chip away 25 lb and now weigh 242lb.

JULIE - I really hope things work out for you with the writing - you are right to be cautious about being ripped off though, so be careful. I will pray for your success.

FAYE - That is exactly what this pool is like -It is quite cold and there is one 'double' lane which is the one I normally go in, but it is dominated by kids on the weekend. The other lanes are very slim and other people can be quite ignorant and just kick out as normal when they swim past - I've had a couple of kicks recently, so now I only swim in the big lane!

SUSAN - Well done for managing your diet and your purse when you were away this weekend!

Love Amanda x