Join Us - Daily Check-In II - new thread
 

Hi all,

Daily Check-In I is about one year old. The women who have been on the thread have helped each other along a "health journey" of weight loss and fitness. We've made great strides. We want to start this new thread to welcome others who want to renew or start a health journey focus.

I lost 30 lb in one year and went from not being able to work out for 15 minutes at a time to completing a triathlon this past Sunday (.5 mile swim, 12 mile bike, and 2.8 mile run). I've still got a long way to go to meet my fitness and weight loss goals. The Daily Check-In Thread has been one of the most important ingredients towards my success.

Daily Check-In means checking in regularly and logging the foods you ate, the foods you skipped, successes and stresses along the way, and tips for each other. I want to welcome anyone who desires to get healthier and share the journey. Please log on, introduce yourself and start "checking-in."

I'm a mom of three boys, in my forties, working, married and still struggling with getting on track with healthy eating and working out. My "diet" of choice is calorie counting. My calorie goal is 1500 cals a day - that works for me.

Today's check in
breakfast - cereal, milk, berries (250)
snack - yogurt smoothie (300)
total so far - 550

sw 210
cw 181
gw 150

Hi ToF, I'll join you here.I can't promise I'll list what I've had, but I can list the big ones - the calorie laden foods that I pass by and don't eat. Today, I got a candy bar out and ate 1/4 of it and put the rest back in the kitchen. In the past I would have eaten the whole thing, then some because I would have felt guilty.

I'm also a mother, but of 2 boys, 19 and 20 YO, working as a database manager, I love to do stained glass and knit with my knitting machine, and I am always in a war with my weight. It has won many battles but I know I'll win the war. I loosely count calories and am up to 1000 so far today. I should be done at 1300.

Hi Marie, let's see how this thread goes. Not too much interest so far. Yesterday was a tough day for me - a low day. I have to learn how to cope with that kind of day. Hoping for a better eating day today. I woke up with a lot of energy - that's a good start.

so far, just coffee.

I'm thinking more about this. I have to start checking my weight regularly. I'm going to weigh myself on Sunday morning. I'd really like to break 180 by then - that means about 1.5 lbs. I can do it. We all can! It's a step by step process. I think I'll be checking in a lot for support. That's what I did last year to jump start the process.

Tiredoffat so glad you started this thread. I will reintroduce myself.

My life has only begun and I have a lot of living to do. I want to be healthy and capable to do for others and myself in the future. I have a hubby whom needs my assistance as he has some health issues. I am a mother of 3 lovely grown children and have 4 little grandkids. No I am not that old only 51 started young but don't regret it. I don't feel 51 and I won't act it either! Life is to short for that! I went back to school a bit ago and got my degree. I work with the adult MR population as a social worker field. I find my work challenging but rewarding and never dull. I started 1 year ago in Sept. to turn my health around. It has worked well for me. I am dedicated to checking in to threads which help keep me motivated to continue my jouney of a good path towards tp wt. loss and feeling fit. I love to do many outside activities, camping, swimming, exercising,fishing , gardening and inside activities include knitting, sewing, quilting, reading etc. I am trying to live life to its fullest and take it as it comes, deal with stress the best I can. Life sometimes throws us a few curve balls and we can react with over eating etc. I am trying to do the scale thing every friday. I set goals for myself along the way and write in a daily journal and post generally on this site.
Well enough of that lets get moving and lose some more wt. I am down almost 10lbs. I'd like to lose about 15 more over time. My goal is to lose it within the year. I take it off generally slow but try to maintain my loss. I calorie count flex between 1400 and 1600. It seems to be the best way for me! Good luck! Welcome aboard and hope you will join us in this journey of better living and feeling good!

Hi ladies,
I'm new around here, Tiredoffat invited me over here yesterday from another post (thanks :) )

I'm 45 years old with a great husband and 3 great kids. What's not so great is my weight :( . I also have been quite sedentary for the last couple of years which has contributed to this feeling that I am getting old and stiff.
My goals are quite simple, get some sort of exercise everyday ( right now it is 30 min walking or pilates dvd, stretching nightly, etc) eat good healthy foods, no fakes,no chemicals or trans fats, and portion control ( I'm not counting calories, but ultimately this is a low calorie diet). I'd love to have some ladies to share ideas and successes with along this journey.

My husband and I own 3 restaurants but I really don't work in the restaurants anymore, which, is probably why I have gained this weight.

I have a whole closet full of beautiful clothes and just about nothing fits or looks good anymore. Nothing is going to keep me from my goal. This is it, life's too short to be thinking about my weight all the time.

So, I'll try to post often....maybe we can help eachother achieve our goals. :)
I'll be posting my weight also, can't wait to see those numbers go down

Gina

Gina welcome aboard here. Together we try to support each other and learn new ways to work toward a better and healthier lifestyle. So yah can't go wrong if your join in.
Yesterday was another very high stress day at work and my mood kind of was tense at home. That didn't make for such a great day. But today is another day and I am going to go in and make the best of things. Getting down can be tough I didn't totally over eat but made a few unhealthy add ins. I ended up on the high calorie side yesterday today will be better. I plan on counting closely and making better choices not letting the stress get to me. I will deal with each thing as it comes up and try not to let it mess me up totally. Food can seem like comfort but it really can be the demon if we choose the wrong things. I did go blueberry picking and had fun. I am going again next week. One gallon of berries are going in the freezer. I am getting ready for camp on friday. Hopefully lots of exercise this weekend and some relaxation. I might have to take part of friday off just to relax and catch up on life. Stress does funny things to us and I need to be strong and not let it control what goes into my mouth.
Scale day is friday! I will be intrested to see how I am doing. I haven't had a bad week just different! I am going to make some homemade fresh salsa to take camping and fresh veggies precut up to snack on. If I pack the right stuff it could be a healthy weekend of eating except for a smore!
Take care!

Good Morning.

Welcome Gina. I know we'll all make great progress on this new thread. I'm imagining myself wearing lots of great clothes at 150lbs. It will happen - I know it. It just means cutting down on calories.

breakfast special k, milk and blueberries (400)

Hi everyone. I had a great day yesterday. I ate lo-cal for my birthday and didn't go over my calories. When we went out to dinner, I only looked at the WW part of the menu and ordered a 350 cal chicken sandwich (which was tasty). Then when they sand happy birthday and brought a sundae, I only ate a couple bites of it. I was full and didn't just keep eating. That's such progress for me. DH and I took the dogs out hiking yesterday morning so I even exercised.

Today is a lazy day. I've started a new plan to get me stomach muscles stronger. I did situps on the 1st for the first time in 30 years. I could actually do 10 of them. My goal is to add 1 every other day until I'm up to 50. I'm also going to start doing push ups using the counter (until I get stronger then I'll graduate to the floor). Crunches have never done much for me, so I decided to go with the real situps. Anyway, I will then float on my pool, then do laps for aerobic exercise. Past that, I'm being a bum my last week off from work.

Gina, welcome to the board - I also gravitated from another thread that I chatted with TOF daily.

Cacmsc, it's really nice to meet you. 51 is definitely still young. Sometimes it's hard for me to think that it's been 25 years since high school. Some days it feels like just a couple - then I realize how old I am and I just don't feel old. So I know what you mean.

TTYL.

Crunches sound like a good idea!

breakfast - cereal/milk/blueberries (400)
lunch - 2 pcs pizza (600)
dinner - 1/2 tuna sandwich, yogurt, fig newtons (700 about)
total 1700 - that's it for today - not the best choices, but the cal intake seems close to what it should be.
I also drank lots and lots of water. Perhaps I'll fit in ex tonight, I've had trouble making the time this week as it is a busy family week. My husband and I have 24 hrs without children this weekend and we both want it to be fun and healthy.

Take care.

sw 210
cw 181
gw 150

Hi everybody,
So glad to meet you all.

mmarie: Thanks for the welcome. :) I think it's great that you only had a couple of bites of your birthday sundae. I find that a few bites can really be satisfying if you pay attention to what you're eating and besides, normally everyone goes hog wild on that special day ... so good for you! About those sittups, that's a great idea, you'll be able to see your progress. You might want to check out Pilates, there are no crunches involved but boy, do they work those core abdominal muscles.To tell the truth, those exercises are really hard for me ( I had twins, nice excuse huh?) but I feel them for days after.

tof: Thanks for the nice welcome. Sounds like you had a pretty good day and....a whole 24 hours with your husband, no kids...I am totally jealous! Thanks for starting this thread.

cacmsc: Thanks for the welcome. :) 50 is the new 30...haven't you heard? Which makes me about 27 I think :lol: Hope you enjoy your camping trip and good luck on weigh day! I am hoping for some kind of loss tomorrow, have been pretty good this week. Going to keep my fingers crossed for both of us....all of us.
Gina

Hello everyone! Happy Birthday to you Mmarie and good work and a nice step forward to reaching your goal. Its all about changing the way we think sometimes.
Gina thanks for being supportive. I like your way of thinking!
Tired hang in there girl things are starting to turn around for you it takes time. How well I know.
I had a better day yesterday at work but boy this has been a stressful week. I am not sorry to see it end and part of it I will have to deal with next week. That is sad but true a big stressful meeting coming up. Sometimes dealing with other peoples lives is not so much fun and the outcomes aren't always the best. Especially when you see them choosing the wrong thing and no how its going to change their lifes and there isn't much you can do. Sometimes the job just eats you up and this is one of those times. Thank God they don't come my way so often or I'd really be a mess!
I didn't lose any wt. this week but thats okay figuring it was pretty crazy and all. I am not upset about it just going to move forward. Maintaining is just as important sometimes. Well I gotta fly to work so I can maybe leave a bit early still gotta pack and get groceries. Talk to you all on sunday when I return from camping in the wilderness no real potties etc..... Oh how will I survive????????????????????????

Count me in - Hikerpam
 

I weighed in today - 204 - that's down 9 from a few months ago, but I'm not satisfied with this at all. Like many of you, I want to make this the last time - lately instead of up and down, it is up and up. I have begun exercising (with a partner - which helps) and hiking on weekends, thus hikerpam. I am excited about being accountable to y'all -

http://www.3fatchicks.com/weight-tra...4/160/204/.png

Hi all,

Gina and cacmsc, thanks for the great posts. It really is a matter of changing how we think. Two days later I'm still thrilled I ate only a couple bites.

hikerpam, 9 pounds is great. I've been on this diet for over a year and right now only have 8 pounds to show for it (I gained weight on a recent vacation and haven't/don't want to change my tracker). I know it's due to one of my bipolar meds, but I don't know which one so I'm easing off them all. I promised DH to go back on them if I don't do okay without them. I've been so stable for so long that I want to try without drugs. In the mean time, maybe I'll lose an ounce or two. :) I did lose a .5 pound this week of the vacation pounds.

I'm at about 800 cals so far today and still have dinner to go. I have a taste for cereal so I think I'll be able to have one of my WW ice cream bars for dessert.

I swam laps today and did my situps. Tomorrow or Sunday I plan on going hiking with DH and dogs. Its just so hot here (100) that we have to get up early to go so that the dogs don't get overheated.

Anyway, have a great night.
Marie

Hi all,

Wow this thread is taking off with great energy and new people! I think this gives us all a great place to start or restart.

Welcome hikerpam. I love to hike. It's a great way to burn calories and enjoy friends and family not to mention see natural beauty. I hope you'll share some of your hikes with us.

Nine lbs is awesome Gina.

Marie and Carol, thanks for all the positive words and good advice. Your steady encouragement and sticking to the task helps make me strong.

Good day so far - tough to count cals due to the boys' swim meet, but no overeating
breakfast - cereal, milk (300)
snack - 1/2 bagel (300)
lunch - chicken sandwich (600)
have to go easy tonight

Take care all - my new resolve is not to overbook myself, I'm finding that when I'm too busy I get tired and when I get tired I overeat. I'll check in again in the am.

Well back to reality today. I went camping in a remote area this weekend no bathrooms, water etc..................But it was lots of hiking and fishing etc. We even broke a rule or two to go rafting across to the island. So lots of upper body muscles were used. One day I managed to sink into some mud up to my ankles what a mess. I laughed so hard but didn't think I'd ever get out.So much for short cuts! I did lots of hiking up the hill to camp down to the water back up again....Then around to the other side of the water to fish at a good site. We had lots of fun! Not sure about the dill potatoe chips I did get into them. But they at least were the 40% less fat type. Like that mattered after drinking some wine this weekend. Oh well we are only young once and I will jump right back to doing my good stuff today. I did a lot of exercise so I am hoping it counteracted the bad foods!
HikerPam welcome aboard! As you see I am full of exploring the world with some camping and hiking as well. Not going to let any grass grow under my feet at least not yet! Nature is so beautiful and we need to see as much of it as possible.
Breakfast: 1 toast w/ little butter/yogurt= 220 calories
Snack= peach 50
Lunch= salad w/ tomatoes,croutons,cuke, cheese,basil, 1 hard boiled egg 250
Snack= 1 pear
Dinner= [polish sausage lean w/ sauerkraut} 350
Have a super day Ladies!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Snack= blueberries and yogurt 150
1200 calories at this point trying to stay near 1400 today!
Fluids= black coffee, water w/lemon lots of it!

Hi Carol,

Glad to hear that your camping trip went well. It's been nonstop around here with barely a minute to focus. Take care.

Sounds like you had fun cacmsc. I love hiking and camping. I just came back from an Alaskan Cruise and all I could think about was how much funner it would have been to camp in Alaska instead of living on a big boat. So your adventure sounds great.

I've been doing good on my diet and lost 1 pound of the three that I gained on the cruise. I'll get all of it off and more - that I know. I don't know if I mentioned it here or not, but I decided to got off all my bi-polar meds this past week. Many reasons why, but one of the main was because I can't lose weight while on them. For about a month I was religiously eating 1300-1400 cals a day and exercising and didn't lose an ounce. So I started researching the meds I was on and one is known for making you gain weight (which I did when I was put on it). I just never realized that I would be unable to lose it if I tried really hard. So that was one reason but there are several more. Anyways, I feel like a noose has been lifted from my neck and I feel much more like myself. I'm going through some withdrawal symptoms but they are mild compared to much of the research I did on that too. So I'm doing good.

I exercised twice yesterday (went hiking and swam laps, did weights and situps) and ate good all weekend. Today I went back to work and still ate really good and I'm up to about 1000 cals with another 400 for dinner/snack. I don't know if I'll exercise since I'm pretty dizzy but I did drink lots of water.

Hope you all are having a great day.
Marie

Mmarie the med's are tough on your system. I am very aware of what they can do to your system as I work in a field which relates with some of those meds. Have you ever searched into dealing with the bipolar with natural products? If you have a good health food store it might be worth wild talking with them. Sometimes just learning ways to relax can help with some of the side effects. Life sometimes throws us a curve ball and we have to find ways to deal with it. Sounds like you have a handle on it all. Keep up your good efforts. My son lived in Alaska for a year I never got there but saw great pictures. It is a place he would like to venture to again some day.
I did okay with my diet yesterday all but an ice cream cone on the way home from work. I guess my lunch didn't hold me over very well and I didn't eat my second piece of fruit for snack. Once I got home though I kept to my diet quite well. I had a pear and cuke last night instead of snacking on something bad for me. So that I figure counted for something.
Todays plan: bagel w/lt.c.c coffee blk.350
No snack today I have a meeting.
Lunch= salad w/ tom. croutons/cuke/low cal. dressing and some cheese 250?
yogurt 90
Dinner= steak grilled lean, onions and squash grilled a little olive oil spices
1 baked potatoe 200 w/ lt. sour cream
Snack= fruit
About 1400 calories today. Lots of water need to exercise today! Maybe a walk? Something!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Carol, you know one of the hardest short term thing to do on a diet is not to blow it for the whole day when you have one thing that's not good for your diet earlier in the day. So pat yourself on the back for staying on track once you got home. Also an ice cream cone isn't a bad thing. I have one lots of times - the rolled sugar cone is about 55 calories and one normal scoop of ice cream is between 140 to 200 calories. So really you didn't do bad at all.

Good news on my front - I have successfully lost the 3 pounds I gained on the cruise. Being off the meds has made that possible since it only took a week and a half. I weighed in this morning (with TOM of all things) and nearlly jumped for joy on the scale but knew that would surely break the darn thing.

I'm slowly getting into the routine being back at work. Hectic, hectic, hectic and I like life at a relaxed pace. But there have been so many budget cutbacks in our district that everyone is scrambling around. It's a sad thing that the state of Oregon decided that cutting education dollars was a wise thing. It's just plain wrong. BTW, they gave themselves a 12% raise. Talk about not re-electing incumbents.

Carol, I definitely will never, ever go back on meds. This is the only time I plan to go through withdrawal. If the lightbox and DH can keep the BP under control, then I will go to natural remedies. Never again will I allow my brain to be manipulated by meds again. So I will definitely keep GNC in my mind if necessary. Thanks for the good advice.

I exercised (swam - still need to do my situps and weightlifting), drank oodles of water, and am at about 900 calories so far. I will have something for dinner, but I'm not hungry. So I'll get it up to at least 1200 by the time I go to bed.

Thanks for being here. I love the support of this thread.
Marie

Marie sounds like you are doing well and thanks for the advice and encouragement. I did read an article on the site for our local newspaper on food and health. If you get a chance ck it out it is www.syracuse.com. At any rate it was about good foods to fight depression. Some of the foods used are turkey, chicken, beans, legumes, peas and some seafoods. They use them for the people in armed forces. It was interesting info. thought we could all use. It helps to keep or chemical balance in tune. God knows we all need that right? Your so right with gov't and school budgets!
My meeting went well yesterday and it was really stressful. One of my most difficult parents to deal with. But the outcome for my client was a positive one and I was shocked that it went well with the outcome. I could of almost banked my pay ck. it was going the other way. Oh well glad thats done. Today I am not sure about my lunch foods as we are having lunch served at an all day meeting at the hotel. I am learning about the medicaid and medicare info. changes etc.... Sounds like loads of fun huh! 6 hours worth! After that its a swim for sure its going into the 90's today.
I am shooting for being good today! Lite supper a grilled burger in a whole wheat thin pita and squash. Oh last night I cooked a spaghetti squash then added some olive oil, little butter, fresh garlic, parm cheese. It was great I could of just had that for dinner forget anything else. Have a great day everyone!

Hi all. I've been on a real struggle in the last seven days so sorry about not being able to post thoughtfully.

Marie, I'm so pysched that you lost 3 lbs (and more?). Fabulous.

Carol, it is always good to read your upbeat ideas and attitude. Thanks.

Marie, Skinny is back on ISO, check it out. I hope she comes to this thread too. Carol, you'd love her.

Ladies, I promise I'll have the energy and time to commit to this thread again. I'm really trying to sort out all the demands and get rid of some. I feel like I'm at the center of a hurricane in my life and the people/places around me are all wildly demanding. This is the first day in about two weeks (or more) that I haven't had a million appts etc. Hopefully I'll be able to center and get back on track. Funny but this all started after the triathlon ended - perhaps a big letdown that the event didn't take away my challenges with food/weight. Thanks for being here. I appreciate it.

Good morning, ladies
 

Hope this day finds everyone doing well. Shout out to TOF and Marie :wave: for not giving up on me and keeping me in your thoughts! You're great ladies and I enjoy your friendship immensely! :grouphug:

For everyone else, allow me to introduce myself. I'm 38 yoa w/two DD's; age 16-just got her permit-pray for us! :D and 13 yoa. My DH is retired Navy and is currently employed w/the federal park system. I work for the local county attorney, or DA as most folks know them. I have strayed off track and gained back some of my weight loss but here I am renewing my commitment w/people who I know will be a great source of encouragement and accountability.

My DH and I are doing WW. He has lost 12 1/2 pounds in three weeks and is very pleased. I have dropped four. My official WI is tonight. I weighed at home this morning and it showed a loss but I will wait for the official before updating my profile.

I generally walk at least 30 minutes in the mornings and try to make it to the Y twice a week. Right now, I'm doing well to do these two things as one DD is in marching band (alto sax) and the other is on the volleyball team. There's a game and a band competition every week and their practices overlap sometimes so it's hectic, hectic, hectic! So, DH and I have made to commitment that, no matter how busy we are, that our exercise, healthy eating habits, family time and couple time will not be compromised. We're going to have to grab time wherever we can but we're for sure going to grab it! :)

Well, hopefully, when you check in next, my profile will be updated and that yucky 219 will be gone! Have a great day!

Oh, Marie-my DH's BP is under good control. He's finally found the right "cocktail" although his goal would be to eventually get off the scrips. I need to read that article that Carol posted; might be helpful.

BTW-Carol-good name! That's my sissy's name and I think the world of her. So, you and I are off to a roaring start! :) And, thanks for postingthe article.

Hi all. Skinny, my husband and I are on the same page as you and your hubby in terms of the health commitment and the busy childrens' schedule.

As I said before this is the first day in over a while that I've had a chance to plan the day the way I want. I'm realizing that I have to realign my priorities. Funny, by a number of factors have forced me to live low key and close to home in the next few weeks. The factors include an extended family members' illness, a son's fractured wrist and some financial factors. I've been fighting this reality as I'd like to be off to the beach or vacationing anywhere else (mind you I've had my share so I'm not looking for pity). Being home I'm realizing just how much back to the basics we all need around here including healthy family dinners, low key family fun and some less hectic, peaceful nights which will include thoughtful attention to this wonderful group of women.

Thanks for listening everyone. Welcome back Skinny. Thanks to Marie and Carol for standing by me through these ups and downs.

Skinny welcome aboard and hopefully we can all learn something from each other to help with us all reaching our goals. I look forward to any input you have gotten from your meetings that you might like to share. Again welcome! Look forward to getting to know you.
Marie my little grandaughter is coming over to stay on friday. Her bag has been packed for a few days. She only lives 4 min. from me funny huh! But we will have a special evening together. I think Grandpa is planning to let her sleep in the camper if she would like to. We are going to bake cookies to send off to Hawaii for part of a birthday gift to my daughter in law.
Tired you will survive this tough time as always. You have a lot on your plate. Sometimes we all take on more than we need. Give others some responsibility so your not overwhelmed. There has to be some way to make it easier for you. Look at your issues as if they belong to someone else. Then problem solve as you would for your students. This my give you some new ideas and approaches? Just thought it might help? Wish we could find Judy. I feel bad she and Rollmdl haven't joined us. Any ideas there?
I did shop last night for some new jeans and work pants. I tried on the 10's and they fit great so I most be doing okay. I haven't been wearing many pants mostly shorts this summer. I am starting to notice the change in our a.m. still dark at 5:45 etc. summer is quickly moving to fast. I am fitting in two more camping vacations and a trip with the grandkids and everyone monday to Seabreeze. Well talk to you soon. I will write my intake in my journal and be under 1400 calories today and swim for exercise.

holy moly
 

I had a nice long post ready and the computer ate it. Sheeze. Anyway, good morning! Hope this day finds everyone doing well. Things here are good. I've had my coffee :coffee: and I'm listening to Vivaldi's "The Four Seasons". Yup, I'm a happy girl.

Carol, it was nice to meet you. Your story about your gdaughter was too cute. I know from experience there's no one like grandma. I hope you have an excellent visit w/her. You have family in Hawaii? My oldest DD will be traveling to Hawaii next summer w/her school band. She's excited but old mom is having a hard time w/it. She's never been that far away from me before. Two years ago they went to FL and mom did not fair well! I know she's well chaperoned and all but still. My bro and his wife may be going w/her. That will ease my mind considerably! I guess I'll just have to pray hard. He's the same God in Hawaiii as He is here! :)

TOF-Carol had some good hints. I would be insane right now if my family didn't pitch in like they do. Here are some things we do that helps: I leave a chore chart for my DD's everyday and the chores must be completed before I get home. I also use a system called motivated moms. It keeps all my housecleaning on a schedule so that there is no heavy spring/fall cleaning. They have a website. Just type motivated moms into your search engine. Also, we plan our meals every week and have a menu posted on the fridge. That way, we know every evening what to expect. My DH usually at least starts dinner as he gets home before me. Hope some of this helps. All you can do is the best you can do. Delegation is our friend! :D I generally take care of mopping, dishes and laundry-among others. Everything is pretty evenly distributed.

Marie-could you repost your cruise pix? I still haven't gotten them to open properly and I'd love to see them. Oh, and congrats on your weight loss! :bravo:

Well, ladies, I would ask to direct you attention to my signature. At my official weigh in last night, I was DOWN 8 POUNDS! I couldn't believe it. I stepped on the scale TWICE to make sure it was working properly! I have to tell you, friends, I am doing the happy dance! :cb: :dance: I'm also aware that I am close to the barrier that I haven't managed to cross yet. The less I've weighed on this weight loss journey is 209. I always seem to hit a wall there and I can't, no-haven't gotten below it yet. But, w/your encouragement, I believe I can do it. So, help me stay positive, please. Thanks.

I went to the Y this morning and did 30 minutes in the circuit room. It was great. I normally walk 20 miles a week and go to the Y twice a week to mix things up a little.

Well, ladies, it was great visiting w/you. Gotta run. Have a great day. Be kind to herself and smile often-it makes people wonder what you're up to! :D

Hi everyone, things are going good here. I'm actually at work and found a few minutes to play. In other words, I'm postponing returning calls because I went to one of the schools for about an hour. One would think me leaving me desk means the world collapsed. "So-so needs you to call immediately..." etc.

Okay, that didn't work - it's now a 2 hours laters... and my lunch time so I'll try again.

Carol, someday I'll have grandkids. For that I'm very excited, but since my boys are only 19 and 20, there's no rush. But, I envy you. I think being a grandparent is going to be such a special honor. It sounds like you have a fun weekend planned. And I agree, summer is going by way too quick. I can't believe I'm already back at work. I really wish I had gotten of the meds earlier so I would have enjoyed my 5 weeks off. They were good, but I'm so much happier now that I would have loved and cherished each day even more.

Skinny - WAY TO GO on the weight loss. I am so proud of you. Getting back on the wagon is so hard but you came back to the right place. The web address of my cruise pictures is www.mariesdogs.info/cruise/index.htm You should be able to access them just by going clicking on the link. I'm going to go out on a friendship limb here and give you some of my experience/thoughts on dieting. So here goes... Last spring, I read everything that you were doing exercise wise and you made me tired just by everything you did. You were going at 200% and I remember thinking to myself that you were going to burn yourself out, but had hoped I would be wrong. I thought that because I have done twice what you were doing. Exercising like an obsession. The first time I was way younger and it took about 9 months to burn out and then do no exercise. The second time, I was about 37 and went on a rollerblading frenzy. I skated miles and miles and miles, up hills, to different towns... you get the picture. I was skating an average of 80 miles a week. Boy was I ever in good shape. ;) But then, ka-bam, I couldn't do it anymore and I stopped (a Minnesota winter had a lot to do with that but I didn't restart in the spring). Anyway, I burned myself out on exercise videos (first time) and rollerblading (second time). I love rollerblading and I haven't done it in 2 years because of that spring/summer/fall. So I reaad everything that you were doing and I saw myself in you and hoped that you would slow done. That's where you've got me beat - you seem to have slowed and now given up so I am REALLY proud of you. the reason that I decided to share my thoughts of this past spring is that I want you to keep an eye out that you don't go overboard. You seem a lot like me in our determination to succeed on this journey and I don't want you to fail like I did.

I worry about you too, TOF. School is starting up soon and you're still so busy. I hope that some of Carol's suggestions help you downsize your stress load. I remember waking up one day and realizing that what was stressing me out wasn't earth shattering and that I could/would delegate whether I'd always spoiled my family/work subordinates in the past. I knew I had to destress or it was going to kill me, then the delegation was going to be way more than just destressing my life. So I worry and think about you often and know that you have to make destressing a priority. Higher than losing weight and exercising. That's just my opinion and you can take it or not. I guess I'm a worrier about my friends.

Okay, I'm off my soapbox for the moment. Plus I'm almost done with lunch. I had a Schwan's cheese pizza and they only have 420 calories in it. So that was a good lunch.

I peeked at the scale this morning - yes I really should subscribe to the thread Scale Addicts Anon - and 196.5 was the result. So I've lost another .5 pound. Since going off meds, I have lost 3.5 pounds in a week. I'm eating and exercising the same as before but the weights coming off like it did before I got older. Getting older wasn't the problem, being medicated was. So I am one happy girl.

Also, I did something different yesterday (not the first time, but just not enough times that it still qualifies as different). Between 4 and 5 pm, several little things really ticked me off and my jubiliant mood was ruined. I was home alone and a little bummed. Normally that's a reason to open the fridge and dive in. Yesterday, I looked for and found my Tae Bo tape and decided that punching and kicking would be better. So I did the Tae Bo and felt immensely better. Jubiliant I was once again. I then went swimming and wrote for the rest of the evening. It was so great.

FYI, if you can't tell, I'm in a manic stage and am enjoying it thoroughly. Skinny, that one thing to know about your DH - if he does go manic - it's really nice except I create credit card **** for DH and me. I'm boing really good so far. I'm just chatting everyone's ear off. :) You guys included.

But, back to work. TTYL.
Marie

Hi all, my entry was lost yesterday. I must say that this thread has energy and vitality! I'm psyched about it. I hope it rubs off on me.

Carol - I leaned in your direction last night. I had a sleepover for 6 boys plus my own two. I used it as a carrot for the last two days and we got lots and lots of cleaning done. The party was a big success - very cute watching them all run from place to place in their boxers, each trying to manage the others. Family fun and happiness - you make that happen so often. Hope you're having a great day.

Skinny - congrats on the weight loss. Awesome. My husband and I, like you and your hubby, are committed to this health journey. Like you, we have lots of child activities to plan for and go to. I'm looking forward to another year of your friendship and support.

Marie - I love those words of wisdom. Sometimes I think of the "manic" stage as a stage of clarity - knowing what to do and then the other stage as being emptied out. I also am heading your words to Skinny. I think I've been trying so hard that I've been missing some of the other pleasures in life. I'm seeking a balance and I appreciate your point of view. Good for you choosing the kick boxing rather than the fridge! Awesome choice.

Roll and Judy - hope you're doing well. I miss you.

As for me, I've definately moved from the doldrums. I get the magazine Simple Living which I usually hate but this month there were great articles about happiness and stress less living. One stress buster is to rid yourself of procrastination. I've checked off almost my entire to do list and eliminated the too far reaching goals. Secondly I'm trying to focus on happiness - what makes me happy. I spend a lot of my free time doing things that don't make me happy (why? - habit? guilt? what I think I should do?)Anyways I'm trying to not do those things in my free time and instead choose activities that I like such as riding my bike, hiking, drawing, writing.

Thanks for listening everyone. I appreciate your earnest searching, working towards a good life.

Good morning, ladies
 

Hope this day finds everyone doing well. Things here are good. Started off my day w/coffee and Vivaldi again so how can I go wrong? :)

Last night was parent night for oldest DD's band. They did a really good job, especially the colorguard. The cg was really bad last year, even at the end of the season after all that practice but they looked sharp last night. Anyway, it was an enjoyable evening, despite the fact that we discovered that DH's truck was going to have to have a new transmission. Bummer. Anyway, after that we got to see some fireworks that the city set off for the opening of the newest elementery school. It was a good time.

Since I overslept this morning, I'll have to get in my 2 mile walk this evening sometime. It's hot as blazes here in KY. The temp is supposed to be up to 97 w/a heat index of 99-104! And my DD is out in this muck marching! She's stocked up on water, though, so she should be okay. Bless her heart, she certainly is dedicated to the band.

Marie-you didn't upset me at all by going out on the friendship limb. It makes me feel great to know I have such caring friends. You're right, I was overdoing it last time. I feel like I've found the right mix for right now. I may change what I do later but I probably won't change how much for a long time. Anytime you feel I'm on thin ice, please feel free to say something to me. That's what friends are for. Oh, finally got your pix open and all I can say is gorgeous. My oldest DD is considering an alaskan cruise for her graduation present. I may just have to show her those pix! Looks like you had a great time. Oh, and congrats on the .5 you lost and on your healthy decision to exercise instead of eat. Great job!

TOF-eight boys in your home? Sounds like fun. We have kids in and out of our house all the time. I'm glad they feel comfortable at our house. Good job on using that as incentive, by the way. I've used similar scenario's myself. I'm glad you're pulling our of your doldrums. It sounds like your making decisions that are healthy for you and your asking good questions. Women are such nurturers that its sometimes hard to say no. However, if we don't take care of ourselves properly, our ability to take care of the ones we love will be lessened. You're doing great and I'm proud of your decisions. Hang in there. When does school start there? My girls go back 08/16. They're spending their last day of "freedom" w/their Aunt Debbie. I'm sure they'll have great fun.

Carol-check in and let us know how your visit is going.

Well, gotta run. Take care of yourselves, ladies. Thank you so much for your friendship and support. It's greatly appreciated.

Oh, DH and I have a date tomorrow. Yea. I'm planning it but it's not anything big but it will be good quality time. We're going to the Electric Beach for coffee (think starbuck's) and then to the lake for a walk. I've been giving him notes this week w/clues about what our date is going to be. He's been enjoying it a lot. I can hardly wait. I feel like I haven't seen him all week due to our busy schedule. Gotta make time for us!

Just for smiles: I have a sign on my computer that says: I keep hitting "escape" but I'm still here! :lol:

Hi all, after I wrote yesterday all h*ll broke loose at work. I had 4 servers crash (all the district office's servers) almost simulaneously. What a freaking mess. I was readly to head out the door and never look back. On top of the servers, the phone wouldn't stop ringing with people kind enough to tell me that were having computer problems. Ah, duh!!!!!! When I finally got the situation under control and able to go home, I swam my laps. My reward for not eating, dropping the remainder of that .5 pound. So I'm to 196, 3 pounds this week. YEAH!!!!!

Skinny, glad to hear that you're going to rein in the exercise from last spring. I know that it's easy to want to lose weight so much that you go overboard. I'm really watching myself so that I don't do that again.

TOF, I think you're nuts. (This coming from a certified nutcase) 8 boys at once. I can understand the carrot incentive, but oooohhh, that would throw me over the edge.

Carol, I hope you have a fantastic time with your granddaughter. Have a lot of fun for me.

Marie

Well everyone we are having a good time. She ended up in our bed as we had a thunderstorm. Yes her and the stuffed little bunny and his blanket. Too cute I tell yah. At any rate she is sitting on the floor going through some left over fabrics and we are making some quick cut up clothes with tie straps. We are headed to run some errands and we are going to my sisters for a big family gathering for a birthday party. So she will meet mom and dad there. We took her out for dinner last night she had a real daisy in her pony tail and was ready to go when I got there to pick her up. The whole family is going to Seabreeze on monday to go on all the water rides and reg. rides. This is our summer treat to everyone. Some day I might not beable to do it but this year I can thanks to my casino win a month ago. Gotta be thankful and lucky once in awhile. We will take a picnic lunch on monday and the girls have all taken care of that and the drinks, snacks etc....
The hubby and I have our anniversary next friday and we are going to do something special.
Skinny wow nice loss. I didn't do the little square this week. I will on wed. next week. I can tell by my clothes so far so good. Another measure is how my rings fit. Loose is good.
Tired you go girl. Congrats on getting some support there! You deserve a break to enjoy life too!
Marie watch that scale stuff not to often ! Be careful!
Well off to a picnic I will try to make some good choices and smaller portions when possible.
CC

Carol, it sounds like you're having fun with GD and the rest of your family. Happy anniversary, a little early. how man years is it? Enjoy it. I envy going to Seabreeze (never heard of it but I LOVE water theme parks). I don't give a darn what I look like in a swimsuit if there is water involved. I will be in my suit and in the water. Hope you were able to do small portions at the picnic.

I've been out to dinner the last two nights. I'm doing good on choices and portions. Eating out is so hard, though. You get an idea of how many calories are in it, but then you never know if they slathered it in oil or butter or what ever else that could throw off the diet. Today is a stay at home day regardless that two of my servers are not working right at work. I spent a portion of my day off yesterday working (4 hours). Not today.

I'm going to watch the NASCAR race with DS and start the counted cross stitch kit I bought in Alaska - it's of Northern Lights. The kit came with Aida 16 fabric and I wanted it bigger so I bought Aida 11. I love being able to see the holes for the stitches. I guess I am getting older.

I'm having trouble sleeping - classic manic. I counted the hours down till I could get up throughout the night. Six rolled around and I was up like a flash. Hour and a half later everyone is still sleeping except the doggies. I'm thinking I either need to control it with Trazedone (one of my meds) or melatonin (natural supplement). I think I'm going to try that first. I'm hyper yet exhausted so I definitely have to do something.

Have a great day.
Marie

Hi, y'all--

Well, it looks like my life is back to "normal," for whatever that's worth. My guests are finally gone, I'm in town indefinitely, I've purged all the 'vacation' food from my house, and my staticky phone line (which I use to get online from home) is even mysteriously working again--just because I've taken Monday off to wait for the repairman!

I've reluctantly amended my ticker to reflect the extra pounds I've gained in the past six weeks, and adjusted my year-end goal accordingly. I won't be able to make up for being stuck in the 230s for months and months, so I will concentrate on getting down to 215 by the holidays. I'm back to journaling, which I'd abandoned in June. I'll be a familiar face at Curves again. Plus I've experimented with a great walk path to work that I tried a couple of times this week--about 55 minutes long. Once the weather cools off a bit (from the mid-90s), it may end up being a nice daily walk. I have even asked a friend about committing to going to a plus-size Pilates class once a week with me. So I'm back on the highway after sitting in the rest area a bit too long!

Marie, you will be my inspiration for losing party pounds. Although I hope you can figure out what to do about the sleep problem! Over time it really zaps your energy and affects your blood pressure, among other things.

Hello, again, Carol and Tired! I've missed checking in with you. I don't think I would have come back at all without your voices of support. Whenever you're afraid that I've fallen off the edge of the earth, send me a private message--it'll come to my Blackberry and I will respond. Let's hope that I don't go AWOL again, tho.

Hey, Skinny! I'm looking forward to learning more about and from you.

Roll, here's a big hug, I hope you're doing okay.

As Wille sings, On the road again, I just can't wait to get back on the road again!

judy

Marie I will have a good time with the kids today. I will enjoy the water park but the rides not many for me I don't really care too much for them. Last year my younger sister vocally forced me into the jack rabbit roller coaster. Oh never in my life again!!!!!!! Hopefully work off a few extras I ate this weekend. With walking swimming etc. today it should work out. I will try to make good food choices this week. I set a goal for myself 3 workouts at the gym to be scheduled, calories with in my daily range and on my 2 special eating events coming up to eat healthy low cal. breakfast and lunches.
Judi so glad you came back to us. Next time I will hunt you down as you have requested! I am a bit concerned over Rollmdl. Maybe she is just busy with her daughter this summer? At any rate we are happy to say the least that you have come back. Sounds like your ready and have preset some goals for yourself. I have been doing well so far. Few mess ups here and there but am fitting into my clothes and my rings are still loose. I will do the scale this week. Not doing it all the time but still checking in for balance and not to let things get out of hand. We all work to hard to let things go to far! Do you keep your own journal? I find it helpful as I can reflect back to what I was doing when I lost or gained. What my exercise or activity level was etc.... Or how many events I went to which involved food!
Take care and talk to you soon hang in there we all know this works but we need to try our best to jump in after a day of lust! One day of screw up is better than lots that is the way I am looking at it.
Tired are you out there? Have a great day and how is the delegating going.

Good morning, ladies
 

Hope this day finds everyone healthy and happy. Things here are good. The weekend went well w/good eating choices and exercise. I have a funny story to tell you about my date w/DH but will save it for later. Saturday, I did pilates for 60 minutes and walked 2.5 miles. Sunday, I walked 2 miles. We are having friends in from MI this coming weekend and I'm looking forward to seeing them. We're already planning a healthy, fun menu for the weekend.

Carol-How was the water park? Six Flags in Louisville, KY has a ride called the Mile High Falls that we love. When you get off, every inch of your body is soaked. Feels good in this humid KY air! I love rollercoasters! I was practially raised in Kings Island, Cincy, OH b/c we lived so close to it. We got summer passes to there and the Cincy Zoo every year. I loved it. I can also tell by the way my clothes fit and the way my rings feel when I'm losing weight and doing well. I can be typing and my rings will just start sliding around. It's a great feeling.

Marie-How's the work situation? Hoping things are easier and calmer for you today. Congrats on the good eating choices while eating out. You're right, though, it is tough. Applebee's has a WW menu that's really good and most places will prepare food to order if you ask. Subway has become our second home b/c it offers such healthy choices. You're cross stitch sounds beautiful. Believe it or not, I've actually seen the Northern Lights all the way down here in KY. They were gorgeous. I hope you get some sleep soon. How are the natural meds working? I love mine. I take some for allergies/bronchial issues and I wouldn't swap them for anything. I haven't had to use my inhaler once in the past year, which is highly unusual for me.

Judy-It's good to meet you and I look forward to getting to know you better. It sounds like you're getting back on track. Good for you!Like you, Iwent awol from the forum for a while. Big mistake on my part. Sometimes, the encouragement and friendship of this board is what gets me through the day. I'm excited that you're going to Pilates. I go every Saturday I can and I love it. I really helps me with my posture which is a problem for me. Let me know how you like it. Word of advice, take it slow and only do what you can do. There are some things that I still can't do but if I keep plugging along, one day I'll get there.

TOF-Where are you? I hope those eight boys didn't tie you up and lock you in the basement or something! :D Check in soon. When does your school year start?

Well, I took DH on a date Saturday night. Nothing elaborate; just coffee and a walk at the lake. To start, our coffee shop was closed due to the fact that they were repaving their parking lot. Bummer. So we settle for cappuccino from a fast food joint. Then, while we were walking, our flashlight died! Well, this was a nature trail so there were parts of it that were pretty dark. Fortunately, DH had his cell phone. So, we were walking around by the light of Bill's cell phone until we got back out into the moonlight. It was quite funny and I'm sure we made a funny sight walking around w/the cell phone held to the ground so we didn't trip and kill ourselves! It's a date we won't soon forget. :)

Hi, ladies!

I wrote a long message this morning, which disappeared somehow when I sent it. So this one will be shorter, and I make sure to copy it, just in case.

I am struggling with carb cravings in the evening something fierce. I had a good day yesterday, EPP and walking 25 minutes in the monstrous heat, but last night I was desparate for more fruit, so after having a large wedge of watermelon for dessert, I still ate an apple and string cheese, and polished off the company OJ...and was looking around for more. I know it was a sugar jones, after so many weeks of helter-skelter eating. I'll have to distract myself this evening, maybe sit in my bedroom and read instead of sitting in front of the tube. What do you do when the evening munchies hit?

Carol, I don't like keeping a journal, but I have to admit that there's a direct correlation for me between writing things down and staying on program. I've tried various electronic logs, but what works best for me is old-fashioned take-anywhere, scribble-whatever-I-can spiral notebook. I track my eating, exercise (formal and informal), water and 'brain meds'--yoga, meditation, hypnotherapy, etc. I also include anything of note about my day or my mood.

Skinny, I'll keep you posted re Pilates. I have to figure out my finances this week, and how I will get back and forth from the class if my friend isn't interested in going. But I think it will work out, and I'm very psyched about it.

Hope everyone had a good day!

judy

Good morning, ladie
 

I hope this day finds everyone doing well. Things here are good. I'll soon have my coffee in hand, I'm listening to Vivaldi (yes, again) so all is good in my little world.

This evening is my official weigh in at church. My scale at home this morning reflected a 2 pounds loss but I'm waiting to see what the scale at church says before I report it officially to you ladies. I feel good about weigh in, though. I'll take a loss even if it's only 1/10 of a pound! :) I just don't want to gain any but it is close to TOM so you never know. I'll let you guys know.

I wogged this morning. Yes, I said wogged. Allow me to elaborate: Our daschund, Cami, is having to make adjustments since school started. She stays in her crate most of the day while we're all at work and at school. Well, I decided that since she had to be inside a lot during the day that she could accompany me on my walks in the morning. DH said he didn't think she could do the 2 miles as quickly as I walk them. Boy, was he wrong! That little booger was practically pulling me down the sidewalk. I'm sure we were a funny sight; my tiny little dog dragging my bottom down the sidewalk. :D So, I actually ran about 6, 30-60 second segments this morning during my walk, hence the name wog. It was good to prove to myself that I could do it. I'm not ready for a marathon or anything but it's definitely a improvement.

So, how is everyone doing? Marie, TOF and Carol-check in soon so we can see how you're doing. I'm sending positive thoughts and hugs your way. :grouphug:

Judy-I crave carbs, mostly sugar, as well. One thing I do is I don't deprive myself. If I want something sweet, I have it. It may be a sugar free or low fat version but I allow myself to have it. Many times, I just eat the regular version but not as big a serving as I would normally have. I give myself 2 hershey's kisses every now and then, especially during TOM. :D I also try to keep healthy alternatives around. It sounds like you're not doing bad but I understand the desire to nip it before it becomes a big problem. I think that starting your journal again will help you as well. I know it certainly helps me. I turn mine in every week to a friend and I always think-if I eat this, my friend will see it and I'll get a lecture. Lots of times, that's enough to keep me from straying into dangerous territory. Like you, I just use a spiral notebook. It works best for me. Good luck w/the carb cravings. Let us know what solutions you come up with.

Well, ladies, I hate to leave such grand company, but I must. In the words of Winston Churchill-Never give in, never give in, never, never, never, never give in. We've come a long way and made a lot of good decisions to be healthy so let's keep plugging along, encouraging each other along the way to our ultimate success. Thanks for your friendship and encouragement. TTYL.

Real quick, 'cuz I gotta run soon--Hi, y'all, hope everyone is having a marvelous day! Skinny, good luck with the weigh-in, I'm keeping my fingers crossed. Thanks for introducing us to wogging....

I went to the Curves by my office last night, and was really pleased with the staff and the people. It's a little cramped compared to my normal Curves, but it was fine, hooray! I'll be there two nights during the workweek, and I'll go to the one closer to home on Saturdays.

My eating is much better than earlier in the week. Didn't have time for my long walk this morning, but I did get in 25 minutes, and will walk to meet a friend in a moment, the walk will be at least 20 minutes (which is why this will have to be short).

Hugs to you all!

judy

August 11, 2005 I wrote: "Carol, someday I'll have grandkids. For that I'm very excited, but since my boys are only 19 and 20, there's no rush. But, I envy you. I think being a grandparent is going to be such a special honor."

Well, a 20 year old can get a girl pregnant. Hence, I am a Grandma to be. I'm so excited I could dance around the room. Alright, I already did (not today since I'm sick). DS's girlfriend has been like a daughter for 5 year and has called me mom for the entire time. They are going to be great parents and I'm going to join your honor ranks, Carol. They're due in February. So the last couple nights my computer/writing time has been with DS and last night with soon to be DIL (at least I hope it's soon - they're thinking of getting married after the baby's born). That's why I've been missing in action.

I haven't lost anymore weight, but I can feel my clothes are so much more lose. Today I have an upset stomach so I look at it that I can't eat - one easier pound to eradicate.

DS and DIL to be are moving in with us in about a month. We're converting the attached garage to a mini apt (no kitchen or bath since they're on the other side of the door) so they'll both be able to continue with school. DS is in his senior year of college and will receive his software engineering degree in a year so we don't want to see the bundle of joy derailing that. DIL is in her last 2 years of school for teaching. What's really cool is that the garage is on the opposite side of the house with a insulated firewall between it and the house. SOOOOOOOO, I get to play with baby all day and sleep all night. What a perfect world. :rofl:

I've been very good eating, especially today - food is disgusting coming back up. I just had a graham cracker that I'm hoping will stay down. I tried a new supplement that doesn't seem to agree with me. I think tomorrow I won't take it. Ah, duh, Marie.

I'm up to 20 situps in my quest to add one everyday (5X a week) since my birthday. They are sure getting easier to do, not harder. I can see that my posture is better so my stomach looks better. I'm really glad I've done them every day for a few days - I do think a crunching of the stomach would have that graham cracker making quick exit.

Work has been hectic, boring, and all together icky. Nothing new there. I finally have all the servers up and running (including my new Windows 2003 SErver with SQL). They've been up since Monday afternoon (except the new one I got communicating with the database yesterday afternoon). That's been a big relief. The boring part has been that I'm in training on another DB that they added to my fleet so I'm bored while the secretary is being trained. To me, all databases are the same and I can figure them out on my own. The trainer told me that he'd never had anyone understand it and answer questions about it (from the secretary) in the first hour. Duh, I say. I'm smart :lol:
Okay, enough rambling. I will check in tomorrow.
Marie

Hello, ladies
 

Hope everyone is having a good morning. Things here have been interesting. We were without power for about 1 1/2 hours due to a car accident that took out a telephone pole. Don't know if anyone was hurt or not. I hope not.

Well, my official weigh in was not official! What I mean is that the scales we use at the WI are kaput. So, I updated my signature by my at home weight. According to it, I'm down two pounds from last week. Yea!

I didn't walk this morning as it looked like rain. So, I exercised w/Richard Simmons Blast off video. I like to do at least a little something in the morning as it helps get and keep your metabolism up through out the day. Tonight is yoga flex at the Y. I've never done it before but I'm going to give it a try as I will be missing my pilates class on Sat. morning.

Marie-congratulations, grandma! :D It sounds like you're being very supportive of the situation which is what they need. They're probably feeling a lot of different emotions right now: happiness, fear, apprehension. With you as a support system, I'm sure they'll be just fine. Keep us updated. Also, congrats on your sit-ups! Sounds like you're doing pretty well with everything. Are you sleeping better now? Hope you're feeling better.

Judy-glad your eating is going well. We have a "curves" room at the Y and I try to hit it a couple times a week. I really enjoy it. By the way, I have to ask where you're from. I picked up on the "ya'll" in your latest post. Do I detect a fellow southerner? ;)

Carol and TOF-let us hear from you soon. I'm missing you both!

Hugs and positive thoughts all around. Have a great day!! TTYL.