Thursday evening!
 

Hello all!

Anagram, all my best wishes that things go well for dh! Hope you can check in w/ us-- I know everyone is thinking the same.

I'm here on in Northern Delaware, just 30 minutes south of Philadelphia, PA. This morning's storm was deceiving-- many places were solid ice under the snow- no warning until you were out of control - Amazingly, I went spinning thru 3 lanes without an accident. But was praying-- Out Loud-- and then, was headed back in the right direction, breathing and heart restarted-- AND IT HAPPENED AGAIN-- got to the entrance of my job's parking lot and got stuck going up the incline. Got pushed out of that but didnt have to think twice when my husband emailed me at 3pm saying " I'm leaving my job, do you want me to come and get you?" -- The roads were now plowed, salted and sanded but am still glad I didnt have to deal with driving home by myself.

Arabella, I've read the first story about the Siberian Bear. I look forward to reading the next. No wonder you were chosen to be in the anthology!

We're tired from dealing w/ the storm all day- Going to let the dogs out once more, put some fresh linens on the bed and call it a night.

Until the morning!

had a before photo taken!!
 

Hey everyone! How is everyone ? Tonight i went to olin mills portrait studios tonight and hadmy kids photo taken they looked so cute, honery underneath, but cute. Anyhow, i asked the girl if she could take a photo of me alone full body,eeek! Hey this took alot to do. she was happy to take it. I told her i was trying to lose 80 pounds and she thought that was cool to take a before photo, i did it for myself, i'ts already motivating me. I ts gonna be cool because its a professional pichure, they look different you know. well just wanted to pop in and say hey to everyone i feel goooood today, thanks guys. your always in my thoughts somwhere. I'm glad i found this forum.


later and lighter
senamay:cool:

Finally Friday!!
 

Hello All!!

This will be short again as DH has to take me in to work and once we get there, dig out my car so.....

Senamay! The portrait is a great idea! And brave too! One real reason I didnt see my extra pounds was that I wasnt looking- in the mirror, at the scale, etc. I was a full subscriber to
"Ignorance is bliss" -- but my second verse was " and look what I missed!" ---

Autumn- Did the snow/ice keep you home from work today?

Never mind towel boys, Empress A- could you send out the PLOW boys???

Today's thought is: (color seems to be down this am)

" After the verb 'To love', 'To help' is the most beautiful verb in the world" Bertha Van Suttner

To the best choices!

Good morning! Another day snowed in, heehee! Yesterday was a good food day---I made lots of healthy things and ended the day feeling good about it all.

Kaylets, it really is scary driving on ice and snow. I really get panick-y when there's the possibility that I'll have to.

Amarantha, I remember 'Communion' and it gave me the serious willies!

Arabella, thank you for sharing your stories. My plan today is to settle in with some tea and read them as a treat after my workout!

Wildfire, I'll stay away from the cookies if you will. There's something about the allure of those Xmas-oriented ones, isn't there?

Healthy day, everybody!:)

Arabella... thank you so much for sharing your stories with us. They are beautifully written. :df:

Anagram... continuing prayers for you and DH.

Wildfire... hope you're feeling better. You've got to show off that dress!

Senemay, that portrait IS a great idea!

Love to all...
Must run... parent teacher interviews this morning, and I must find something to wear that doesn't make me look dumpy. :rolleyes:

Fly-by post again ...
 

:dance: Happy Friday!!!! :dance:

Wow this week flew! Got my Ochoco kitty to the vet yesterday and back home before the freezing fog made driving too difficult. It *can* lift any day now... really.... I AM getting quite tired of it!

Kaylets - You be careful out there! Ice is the worst, which is why I wish it would just snow here. I guess you had a guardian angel with you in that little "lane change". :angel:

Senamay - Great idea about the photo. That will be very nice to have 80 pounds from now so you can say "look where I started!!".

Amarantha - Communion scared the crap outta me. There's a crop circle I want to have tattooed on my lower back but I have a small irrational fear that it's going to "mark" me for abduction somehow :p
As for being dumped because of being weird - IMO (which is always so humble) I believe that anyone who would dump you because of who you are wasn't a friend to begin with. A few years ago when I came out (in the religious sense) to my two best friends (mormon & catholic) I was a little afraid, but nothing changed in how they treated me - the best sign of true friends. They love you if you're weird to them or not!

Yuma... It keeps getting pushed back. I may be insane, but I think I might try to go in June so I can be in CA for my goddaughter's 13th birthday and school graduation. I will probably roast my a$$ off in Arizona in the summer time, but that's what SPF 30 is for!

That's all for now... gotta do some work so it at least looks like I *earn* my paycheck! ;)

Terri
:queen: Punkin - and it IS Friday!!!! :cb:

Greetings to all elves!
 

I know everyone else has said it before, but it must be said again - WOW, people are posting a lot! I love it, it truly makes one feel part of a dynamic community. It sure does take a long time to catch up when you miss a few days, though!

Today is my WI, and Ceara, mark me down to 171.5, please! I think it's possible that I CAN break into the 160's by Christmas, and am just so excited about it!

DH and I celebrated early Christmas last night. We'll be travelling again for the holidays, and both presents were too big to bring along. I got him an oriental rug for his office, and he got me my dream gift of several years running - a sewing machine!!! It may sound unexciting to some, but I really love the joy of creating something, and am so keen to sew some curtains and a little coat for the dog. :dizzy: Yep, I'm wacky, but so excited now!

Kaylets - I want to let you know that I've been thinking about your "Here's to the best possible choices" every day - it's really a great mantra...it's not that failure is involved, but there is incentive to do the best you can do. It sticks with me. Be careful driving out there in the snowy craziness - do you have snowtires?

Arabella - Congratulations on being published! I am a professor out here in communication studies - I've published several articles and book chapters, but am really excited to one day publish a book. It must be very exciting.

Ellis and Eydie - thanks for you comments on the exercise balls. I think I might go to a gym and try some before I purchase - but I really like the idea of using it as a seat. My posture is terrible!

Wildfire - it's party day! Let us all know if you were feeling well enough to go the party and report to us every envious and adoring look that you got!

Punkinseed - I am so happy to hear that your mom is doing well...it's a tremendous feeling when you can think everything is right with the world, and it's important to really recognize these moments! Oh, and by the way, I think Irish Setter is going to look great, especially at this holiday time! My dog is that red color, and I always wish I could exchang ehair with him!

Amarantha - It was ages ago that you said it, but I am really happy to meet another Harry Potter fan who refuses to see the movies. I know that our whole society is based on capitalisim, but I hate to see such a joy and educational moment for kids capitalized so heavily! It's hard to reconcile joining in with that.

Anagram - If you're back on here at all, know that our sincere good wishes go out to you and your DH...I'm sure he's got a strong spirit, and coupled with yours I'm sure you two will make it through this.

To everyone else I didn't mention by name - it's so fun reading all that you write! I'm really going to miss it again when I go out of town...I'm becoming an Internet junkie because of all of you!

Take care, everyone-
Cheers,
Cybele

HI all
Made it through the week eating ok except today a little ultimate crumb cake fell into my mouth...dam those aliens! Oh well, my workouts have not been all that great however im still going to the gym so i guess i will take that as doing ok. Im assisting a wedding tomorrow..photography wise....i set up shots...which i think eventually i will regain my confidence to shoot the shots. Just to let you know my web site is http://www.picture123.com
im not advertising i guess maybe just showing you my passion. Sometimes i doubt my skills...will that ever go away? Is there ever a time in life where not one doubts that they are not a loser? Or is that just me?

IM actually doing well despite my self esteem issues today. Trying to mingle more..meeting more people. Which is great. I think im rambling.

Ok so Pumpkinseed im glad your friends are true friends. They are hard to find so you lucky and i think its cool that your honest with yourself...and you know who you are. Its hard to do that. I also think its cool your going to CA. WHere in CA are you going too? Are you still making christmas ornaments?

Even though im not christian i still love the holiday! So vibrant.
And the snacks are way to tasty!

Amarantha, i agree especially the talk shows are such crap. I guess it follows with the enquirer, star, and other gossip/shocking stuff. Like its not hard to just live your life as a kid while infiltrating such junk.

Talk to you guys later...
Sheryl

Oh yea i wanted to say i love the exercise ball. I love when they use it in my class. I dont own one i have no room for it. But its great for your abs and you back does not hurt.

Wildfire- i to cant wait to hear about your holiday party...and the dress. We have a holiday party next thursday..not sure what im doing to wear..however im 85lbs thinner from last year so i imagine people might notice. LoL I have another year to take off 30lbs...thank god.

Ah i think your christmas present sounds awesome..i wish i knew how to sew....Cybele...i always admire crafty people..im visually creative but not hands on at all...sigh

Well im going back to work...have a good friday!
Sheryl

fri day night.
 

Hello to all happy friday exspecially to punkinseed.;)

For everyone who said talk shows are junk, well i agree if you leave oprah,and my preciouse Dr.Phil out of there.:^:

I think Phil is awesome he's now secretly my other 1/2 husband never has to know a thing, ok girls. I'm sorry i'ts the southern accent the kind hearted words. i dont know but hes just awsome. Any who.

I cant lie, my kids and husband are driving me insane. REALY. I have a husband that dosent disipline my kids hes such a jerk sometimes. He talks bad to me, hurts my feelings and i feel like a maid or a servant i'm thinking of going on strike from him, just so he sees what i do for him, i wouoldnt do that to my kids but there spoiled too. big time, my husband verbally abuses me. that sucks because i am a good person i was raised in a good home with awsome parents they were the real thing when it came to love, my husband doesnt have aclue what that word means. Hes ruining me and my kids and i need to do somthing about it soon, ive divorced him and remarried him. dumb!! But i did it for the kids. im so confused, i have no job, no money, nothing, i'm just the mrs. for 11 years ??? If i leave i would go to my brothers and get on my feet until i can support myself and kids, Has anyone out there had to divorce with kids, ??? could use some advice on this id appreciate it. let me note the onley reason i here is because of my kids, but at the same time i'm hurting them by staying here?? Whats a mom to do. I'm not in love anymore. im just the maid. scared and confused..:?:

my husband drinks,smokes,cusses, hates his job, hates paying bills, hates being around people,blames me for everything except the weather. i'm just sick of it. please reply...your friend

later and lighter
senamay:(

Senamay, I'm so sorry you're going through this. I haven't had this experience, but I have a friend in the same situation. She told me yesterday that she can't take it anymore, and after Christmas she's leaving her husband.
I wish I could offer you some good advice. It sounds as though you've really had enough, and it's an unhealthy relationship to continue. Unhealthy for ALL of you.
You're fortunate if you can stay with your brother. Make sure you think everything through before you make a move. Don't put yourself at a disadvantage.
My friend is leaving everything behind except for some money in a savings. She's stayed at home with her kids for almost 20 years, and thinks she is worthless. She's not taking ANYTHING with her, and I think she's crazy. She's worth every bit as much as he is.
Don't sell yourself short the way she's doing. You're a very special person. Hang in there... you're going to be alright.
I'll be praying for you, sweetie... hugs...
ellis

Senamay, I'm also sorry you're going through this. Dunno, reading your post, it almost seems as though you've already made up your mind and thought this through very well. It seems as though you have a plan to go to your brother and go on from there in sorting out this relationship. That seems really a sensible and safe way to go because you should not have to deal with this alone. No one should have to take abuse, verbal or otherwise, and please remember there is help out there available to keep you and your children safe and to help you get a job, find counseling and start an independent life if that is what you decide to do. I could tell right from the start that you were a good person, Senamay, and you have a good future in front of you. Dunno. I just have that crystal ball feeling that you're gonna make it. Just don't wait around too long if you feel endangered in anyway, ok? :strong:

See you! (P.S. I like Dr. P. also ... what do you think he'd tell you to do?)

Hi Senamay, I was married to an alcoholic and separated from him when my son was 2. It's not easy being on your own with children, but you can make your own life, instead of just trying to survive a bad situation.

If you do decide to stay with your husband, is counseling a possibility?

Take care.

Saturday!
 

Hello all!!

12 degrees here this am but no wind so it actually feels warmer than earlier in the week.

Roads are much easier to navigate and my car is scheduled for new tires this am for good measure. Its frustrating to live a fairly well to do state and see how their snow removal budget is such a low priority. Of course, if it did snow more here than, it would be a priority. Thanks for the kind words!

Senamay- I have had some bad dating relationships but never a bad relationship w/ children. You are doing the right thing by looking for other women w/ the same experience. I do have friends who have decided their marriages could not continue and I do see as time goes by, that my friends are realizing just how "stifled" and "controlled" they had been. They have become more much confident and self assured as they have reclaimed themselves. But each of my friends made her decision in her time frame- one had only been married for about 5 yrs, another nearly 30 yrs, another was never "legally" married but is on the mortgage -- My point is that whatever you decide will be the right time for you- - - and yes, what would Dr Phil say after you had answered his first question of "How's that working for you?"

Scoobysnacks! Glad to see you on the board! I am looking forward to seeing your site!!

Cybele! Good for you!! I think I'll try and catch your draft if you don't mind!

Arabella! Don't you just hate when you do that!! This little expereince cured me for a long time---- We were still living in CT and it was this time of year and similarily cold and snowy. I was just out of the shower in my robe getting ready for an office holiday party. DH was at his mother's as this party was a "no spouse, no guest" party. For whatever reason, I decided the trash needed to go and the bag must have been very heavy, so I stepped out onto the back porch .....and.... heard the wind slam the back door behind me.... so there I was, in my robe, running to the neighbors (who I only nodded to)to use a phone. In below freezing weather!

I'll be back in a little while, need to go to the tire store!

Today's thought is: ".... you don't get to choose how you're going to die or when. You can only decide how you're going to live. Now!"-- Joan Baez

Here's to the best choices!

Senamay, sorry you're having to go thru this, but it sounds like you're formulating a plan. About the kids; I don't have any so am no authority, it can't be good for them to see their parents unhappy or being cruel. They'll think that's what relationships are and the cycle will continue. You deserve to be happy, never forget that.

Wildfire, how are you?

Cybele, let us know how the doggie suit turns out!:lol:

While I was walking the other day I watched one of those 'True Hollywood Story' things and this one was about Betty Page, the pinup girl. I was struck by the fact that she wasn't skinny by any means but she was 'it' in her day. A big ol' healthy robust gal!!!
My husband rather pointedly told me that what made her so attractive was her attitude and her body confidence, hint hint!:) So next time I'm feeling frumpy I'm invoking her name!

Arabella, Is there a middle ground concerning the holiday eating? I'm such a foodie and truly believe that food is one of life's great pleasures but how to find balance?

Moment of silence, please. Yesterday our treadmill died after many years of faithful service.... but life goes on and we can't be without one, so we're going out today to get a replacement! Braving the snow and ice--yikes!

thanks!!!
 

To all a happy Saturday morning. And thanks for everyone who answered my divorce post??This may be the hardest decision of my life, so far, because my kids are envolved.

I will admit there is alot of fear, because i've never been on my own before. My parents are both gone and i feel like if they were here i'd have the answers to my ?????'s.

I am trying to go to college in Jan. hopefully that works, the only problem there it will be another 3 or 4 yrs. before i have a good job, that kinda dont sound good. I need one now. One thing at a time. My kids mean the world to me,and thats all i think about, my husband threatens me with me, like if you leave again, it wont be that easy, he said he will take them away from me, quit his job and run and id never know where they are? Or he'll lie and do anything in court to make me look bad . I cant handle that kinds sttress. Im still going through depression losing my parents. :?:

I feel like that one lady you mentioned, i feel like a loser. I know i have to get a life established that i can feel proud of and i know i cant depend on the husband anymore.

Dr. Phil, well i know what he would say i watched ashow on this same thing and a lady was like me, talking about her husband, phil says... if your waiting on him to change today , tomorrow next month, next year. well it aint gonna happen honey, your just selling yourself short, get on with your life. If it aint workin, get out!!! thats his words. and hes so right but i have to live the life when i do decide to walk.. thanks for all your concern everyone, you all are so sweet. i know this is a wweight loss help post, but it was on my hearaat to ask for help. :smug: And i;m glad i did.
And i still need help with the weight thing too.haha. until tonight have a good weekend. later and lighter senamay:wave:

Yo, ho, ho!
 

... Mr. Procrastination must go!!! Woo-hoo! Got to work, got to think positive! Got to spend time floating silently on a sea of tranquility at the Imperial Fitness Spa, got to bead! ~ Signed, The Overseer

Well, ok TO, we'll do all those things in a minute, but Mr. Procrastination needs to rest up a bit before he hits the road. He has a lot of appointments around the world; he's a busy and popular fellow, but we don't want hanging 'round the Empire o' Fit Folk anymore, as he only takes and never gives. He uses up the empirical resources and returns nothing to the economy or to the national goal of becoming fit, healthy and sane and maintaining a reasonable bodyweight in a healthy manner.

Eydie: Thanks for mentioning Betty Page. I hadn't heard of her but want to find a picture. I love that idea of being "robust" ... definitely I believe that healthy people with good muscle tone are far more attractive than those who starve themselves when they don't need to in order to reach some teeny weeny size dictated by society. Sorry for thy treadmill's demise! (But now you get to go out and buy a new one!!! Woo-hoo!)

Kaylets: Brrrr ... 12 degrees! Hope thou bundleth up well in such weather! Thanks for the Thought o' The Day; that is something to consider.

Arabella: I was able to download thy stories but the file would not open for me. Methinks it is the weirdness of my computer. I'll try something else in a bit.

[I]JINGLE BELLS! TODAY'LL BE SWELL!!! IT'S OP ALL THE WAY!!! OH, WHAT FUN IT IS TO LOSE A POUND O' FAT TODAY!!!

:wave:

Sat 15 min break
 

Ok,timer is running- only have 15 minutes and then onto more chores--

Empress A- you probably tried this but I was fooled initially, I was clicking on what I thought was an icon but then tried (after awhile) "text.org" or whatever the last couple words were in the phrase and Voila-- I think it's a word doc-
and I thought you were going to kid me about dating myself as someone else did by knowing who Joan Baez was.....
... wait a minute, just reread your post, you were able to download, maybe its a word program that doesnt match yours... I give up...

Eydie! You're the first person I've known to wear a treadmill out!
That's impressive!

Betty Page! Yes, and interestingly enough, there are some folks who believe she is was the inspiration for Betty Boop but of course, Betty Boop was much, much earlier--

and oh yes, Empress A- I'll be on the lookout for the Plow Boy's-
Might find some other chores for them as well--
And you matched all the syllables to Jingle Bells perfectly! And yes, wouldnt it be fun to lose a pound today! :D

Well, timer has 3 minutes left- want to put some WW's no points soup on and go from there-

I plan on stopping back later!

Ding!

Mid afternoon
 

Interesting how some things in the universe seem to run on parallel paths- If anyone is interested in another view of how "Being Perfect" was the root of many problems ( including weight) take a look at www.Flylady.net and scroll down to the lime green boxes and click on the purple Ask Flylady. She was asked why she uses a "drawing" of herself on her website and her answer is worth reading.

It was pleasant outside when the sun was out but the wind is coming up and its definitely COLD. Guess some visitors to my bird feeder still stop in this neighborhood because had a few poking around in the snow. So I dug out my seed and filled the feeder and spread seed on the ground. We have more blackbirds than anything but when its fairly quiet a pair of mourning doves comes by. My feeders can be seen from easily from from my living room so its fun. Dogs enjoy watching the comings and goings too.

Hi everyone. Thanks for asking, I made it to the party, looked gorgeous according to the many compliments I received (including being told I had the sexiest shoes!) and danced all night...well, until it was over at 1am. I have no voice, and could barely swallow my dinner my throat was so sore...even coffee was a challenge. I stuck to ice water instead of alcoholic beverages. Hubby told me I was more beautiful than the first time he ever saw me. :) My $35 dress and $30 shoes were well worth it! :lol: Took me quite a while to remove the 37 bobbypins that were in my hair...had it done in a curly updo at the salon.

So we slept late this morning, and I'm taking it easy today. Hubby is out getting food and movies to keep me entertained tonight. I have another party to attend tomorrow afternoon, but this is a family party at a cousin's house....much less prep work!

Senamay, I left my first husband after 8 months of marriage. It wasn't easy, as I was working as a child care provider and not making much money. I had to leave that job as my daughter (who was 7 then) was finished school for the summer and I had to stay home with her. I'm going to give you some advice. It made a world of difference for me. I tried to leave a couple of times prior to this, but ended up back because I didn't have a plan. If you're going to do it, you need to get prepared. Squirrel away whatever little bit of money you can....even if you wait six months and save coins...you'll need a little bit for stuff you won't think of now. Next, call your government agencies to find out what kind of assistance is available for you. Housing, financial aid, subsidized tuition programs if you want to go back to school. The day I put my ex out, I went to register for Computer Science, even though the course didn't start for another four months. I lived on welfare for the two years it took me to finish the course, but I graduated with Honors. It was tough and I spent many nights in tears wondering how I'd ever make it, but I did. You have to be sure, you have to be ready, and you have to be STUBBORN....you have to fight to make it. It's a long, hard journey, but you can do it. My parents are both gone, too, and I had no one but ME to count on, even though I have a large extended family. Not one of them offered any help. Take advantage of the programs that are available to help you...swallow your pride if necessary, and do what you gotta do. It's a temporary situation to get to a better place. I'm married to the most wonderful guy now, and I'm an Accountant, I make good money, I can pay my bills without worry, and life is good in general. I consider myself a success story, and I have faith that you will, too.

Anagram, you and hubby are both in my thoughts.

Hello to everyone else! :wave:

Wildfire... you are such an inspiration!

I'm glad you had such a wonderful time at the party (despite being ill).

hugs to all....xoxo

I'm Still Hanging in!
 

Hi All! I may actually have a few minutes to post a message.

It's been a hectic week - in addition to the normal routine craziness, we had the cold, and then the snow, plus our swimming pool leaked all of its water, and THEN...

on Friday, my boss :devil: told me that he is eliminating my job and if I didn't take another job (one that requires 50-75% travel), I'd be out of a job. I'm taking the job to be sure I have an income but will be looking elsewhere in the mean time. You all know how great the job market is right now so I think I'll be hanging in there for awhile.

I am making the most of this and hanging in. OK, OK so I ate a couple things in frustration but I didn't go crazy. I'm just trying to keep the perspective that life works itself out ... all things happen for a reason.

SOOOOO..... I think I've caught up with all of your posts. :) So much going on.

To everyone that has had successes this past week - CONGRATS, WAY TO GO, and KEEP IT GOING! I will post more in the coming days and touch base with you all as I catch up.

Senamay... I read your post about your consideration of leaving your DH. I haven't been in your situation so I won't offer advice, but I am sorry for the pain you feel. No one should have to live with someone that makes them feel the way he makes you feel. I concur with what the others have written, and I think Wildfire's advice about having a plan is right on the money. If a divorce is the right answer, do the planning that will help you.

Wildfire... I am both sorry that you went through what you did and proud that you are the strong survivor of it. And look how good your life is now! No wonder you looked so gorgeous in your dress!

Anagram... my thoughts and prayers towards your DHs recovery.

Hmmm .... How many days to go is it??? ;)

18 Days to Go! We can do it and we will!

Hang in all!

a big teary thanks wildfire..
 

I just read your post to me,and i'm like teary eyed thank God someone else in here could relate. I;m glad i posted now.
I do think your advice is good. I have thought about money. and all that plannong stuff. I am gratefull to have such a wonderful brother hes always there for me, and im there for him. I know i have ahome, but no job or money, onley child support, when it comes.

Do you ever feel guilty because he took care of you or not. mine takes care of financially just not in any other areas there important too. well gotta go for now posting later maybe...

love to all of you elfettes out there. thank god for you all...

later and lighter senamay

hello!!
 

HELLO, ME ONE MORE TIME, I WENT TO THE 'Y' TODAY I HAD A FREE PASS TO TRY ANOTHER ONE SO I DID. THIS ONE WAS SO NICE, I SAT IN A HUT TUB AND WHIRLPOOL, WOW DO THEY MAKE YOU FEEL GOOD. THEN I EXCERSIZED IN THE POOL FOR AN HOUR. I WAS PRETTY TIRED BY THE TIME I GOT HOME. BUT I ENJOYED MY DAY.

MY DAY STARTED WITH A HEADACHE THAT JUST WOULDNT QUIT. NOW I HAVE THE PLACE QUITE ONCE AGAIN, KIDS ARE SLEEPING AND ALL IS WELL FOR NOW,HAHA.

JUST WANT TO THANK EVERYONE AGAIN FOR THERE TIME IN ANSWERING ME, IT MEANS ALOT.

I WISH I HAD AN EXCITING STORY OR LIFE TOWRITE ABOUT LIKE SOME OF YOU, HAHA I DONT HAVE ANY FANCY PARTYS TO GET DRESSED UP FOR, OR A FABULOUSE DRESS TO WEAR SOMEWHERE, HEY MAYBE SOMEDAY. I DO HAVE A NICE DRESS IN MY CLOSET AND DARN IT I WILL FIT INTO THAT ONE DAY. I WANT THAT DRESS TO BE MY CELEBRATION DRESS WHEN I MAKE MY GOAL. WELL GOODNIGHT TO ALL FROM THE NORTH POLE, WE HAVENT GOT ANY MORE SNOW YET?? THATS WEIRD.

LATER AND LIGHTER SENAMAY...:wave:

Night falleth ...
 

Hi everyone, It is so nice to be back, I have been without my computer for almost a week. I tried to catch up on everything but way too many post to read.
I have been having a busy week with work and it has only just begun. this will be quick because it is about midnight and Im going away for the day tomorrow to visit my dad.
I hate to say it but I will not be meeting my Christmas challenge of 190 because I seem to have hit a plateau I have stayed the same for the last three weeks but that is ok because this is the first one I have hit so far. I have already put 2 Christmas parties to bed so im holding my own. Got to run, nice to be back.

Fly by -

Have tried a quick scan of posts, will probably never catch up.

Thanks for prayers and good wishes. DH still in ICU - they've successfully stopped bleeding in two aneurysms in kidney but there are more and prognosis not yet clear. He's had 13 units of blood, there are kidney issues and heart issues. He's such a stoic!

DS has been here for days, went home last evening after things looked better. DD coming today. Both kids have been troopers.

I'm doing ok - I'm the type that falls apart later and I know I will. But that's ok - I prefer being together when things need to be done. I've noticed several times being drawn to "comfort" food but so far, I'm BRAGGING to report that I have not succumbed. Mostly eating in cafeteria. Allowed myself a tiny portion of cake last night but it didn't taste as good as I expected. Checked scale yesterday and was back at or holding at pre Thanksgiving wt.

Don't know when I'll get back, sorry to hear of problems and glad to see the good things in your lives as well. I have been blessed with a dear guy in my life and two nice kids and supportive friends and family and neighbors when the crunch comes and I am so appreciative of all. Thank you.

Sensational Sunday
 

Hello all!

Autumn! Wow! And how soon do these job changes happen??
After the 1st of the year I hope!! What a shock! Are other folks being " refocused" too?? At least they offered you something else although you don't sound happy w/ the option. They must think highly of you to offer you another position!
This is a tough one to happen during the holidays. Especially when you want the "little ones" to have a wonderful holiday too.

I learned this the hard way and it may not work for you -- but when all instincts say " there isnt time to exercise, meditate, take time alone-- should be searching the papers, internet, calling contacts" -- instincts are wrong- even if you set a timer, truly the exercise will help you get through this. I went thru a downsizing that took 9 months as coworkers left before me. I had already detoured off my plan and gained. My biggest focus was to stay positve w/ coworkers and make the best of the experience but there were many mornings on the way to work that tears gave way -- And that was a relief too. By month eight, I started walking from the train station to the job and felt the difference the first day. I was still stressed but had another outlet.
Don't be a stranger, this thread isnt just about losing, its about the journey!:)

Empress A- Not sure which Mapquest those Plowboys are using but they did all the streets OUTSIDE our development. Our street has such deep ice ruts its like driving 1/4 mile of train tracks!
But they've done a great job on the other streets!
As for Betty Boop, didnt mean to confuse-- That's the misconception from some of the younger generation- that Betty Page and Betty Boop are the same- Betty Boop is the cartoon, Betty Page, the pinup from the late 50's. Yes, Joan Baez is doing great and looks great too!

Dollar! So nice to see you on the board! Enjoy your visit w/ your dad! Plateau's are tough- Empress A is our inspiration for that one though-- don't despair! You have had an amazing loss! Perhaps you'd like to change your goal this challenge?

Wildfire! :cool: Sounds like a great evening!! Any pictures taken?? Good for you! Did the cold knock that other 5lbs off?? Sometimes we do get what we pray for-- we just don't like the answer! :lol: Glad you felt well enough to make the party though!

Scoobysnacks! I was at your website! I am so impressed!
Do you also live in Newton? I have family very close to you!

Senamay! The beauty part is that you can write your story!!
You already know the beginning-- Lady from Ohio.....!
I have a few outfits waiting in my closet too! Hope the style will let me wear them when I can finally get into them!

Today's thought is:

"The world is round the place which may seem like the end may also be only the beginning" -- Ivy Baker Priest

PS
 

Anagram-- I've been thinking about you! So glad you had a chance to stop by! My best to you and your family! I know everyone here is sending all good things your way!

Kaylets, Thanks for mentioning FlyLady. I really like her methods; they're corny but they worked for me! Especially the decluttering stuff and the 15 min. a day housecleaning And let's not forget the all-important shiny sink! Did you know she has a book out now?

Wildfire, thanks for sharing your story with us, sounds like you could write a book yorself! And it sounds like it was worth it to go to the party too!

Anagram, thanks for checking in with us. Stay strong!

Weighed this morning--no change-still at 150. oh well.....

Strange... I've kept off the three pounds I lost last week. Strange because I've been indulging in a few bad snacks. Maybe my metabolism is finally kicking into high gear. 10 weeks of heavy exercise with no weight loss until last week... SOMETHING'S got to give eventually, right!?
Yesterday was a horrific day. We took the children to my parents for a sleepover, but then DH and I had to babysit my girlfriend's 11 month old son for 5 hours!!! We were absolutely exhausted when she finally picked him up! We'd planned on a semi-romantic evening together (having a house with no kids in it!), but were so tired we both went to bed at 6:30!! :lol: No more babies for US!!!

I love that quote, Kaylets... thank you! :) Listen, even if those outfits AREN'T in style when you get into them, you're still going to feel fantastic.

Anagram, you have such a wonderful attitude in being grateful for your life. You are a beautiful person, and you are so blessed. Continuing prayers for you and your dear husband.

Amarantha... good luck with the weigh in. You are doing SO well!!

Senemay, hang in there, girl. And don't think your life isn't exciting. Think of all that you've to be grateful for. Don't look at the bad stuff... look ahead! And be proud of yourself that you've come this far. You're a strong woman, and you're a good woman. Don't put yourself down. (and yes, you WILL have occasion to wear party dresses!!)

Autumn... I'll be thinking about you re: the job. Something wonderful will come along for you. It's in the cards. ;)

Hi Dollar... hope you have a good visit with your dad... And hi to everyone else! :wave: Do well today!!

Warning: An All About Me Post! :)
 

EMPIRE O' FIT FOLK—Empress Amarantha participated here today in the weighing-in ceremony on the Golden Scale o' Good Intentions.

The Empress uttered not one discouraging word as the Golden Scale registered a half pound higher than last week. "Oh, well, she said, "I am still down three pounds from where I started this challenge and I never expected the 3.5 pound loss of last week to hold anyway as I have been off program a bit this week. I be very pleased with this weigh-in and expect great things next week!

The crowd cheered as the Empress stepped off the golden scale and raised her arms in a victory salute. The Imperial band played the popular holiday carol, "The 26 Days o' Christmas!"

Film at 11.

Here be Amarantha's overall Personal Transformation Challenge data!

Ceara, wouldst thou also be so kindeth as to update Amarantha's current weight to 160 on the roster. Please leave all my bananas, though! :)

Amarantha's Transformation Challenge

Starting Weight of Personal Transformation Challenge: 166.5
Current Weight: 160
Transformation Challenge Pounds Lost: 6.5
:cp:
Highest Weight Ever Recorded: 247
Lowest Weight in Adulthood: 101 (Too Low)
Lowest Weight Since Major Weight Loss Intiative Approx. 5 Years Ago: 142
Pounds Gained Back: 24.5 :nono:
Christmas Challenge Goal: 159
Ultimate Goal: 135 (and then maintain within a four-pound range)!!!

Addendum: Just saw that Anagram be in the house! So good to hear from thee, Anagram and that thy dh be holding his own, but so sorry he hath to go through this and that you do as well. Keeping a good thought for his recovery asap.

Kaylets: The Ivy Baker Priest quote be resonating all over the place with Amarantha this day. Thanks!

Senamay: Everyone's life story is the most exciting and its outcome the most crucial! :) Think how inspiring thy journey of transformation be to thy children, to thy relatives and to thyself! We all write our own scripts and play all the parts, too, because in the end it is us that decides what tale our stories will tell!!! Good luck to thee on thy journey! Make it a good one! :strong:

Congratulations to all who have lost or maintained this week or like Amarantha had only a teeny gain (we're calling it maintenance in the Empire)!!! Congratulations to all who are striving against adversity and refusing to give up! Congratulations and may whichever good luck elfettes or other metaphysical friends who accompany each of us on the journey bless us, everyone, in the coming holiday season.

Here's to positivity in the coming week!!! WE WILL DO THIS! WE WILL NOT FAIL! WE WILL NOT NOT PASS GO AND GO DIRECTLY TO JAIL!!!

:cb: :cb: :cb:

Hi folks had a good visit with my dad today and finallized some plans for Christmas with my brother, the one I grew up with. It is going to be a busy time for sure. I go on the 22 to my birth brothers and they have invited my dad as well, the 23 I go to my mother in laws until the 24 then Im going to have to work Christmas day now to allow me to be off on the 24th then I work the 26, 27 and the 28, go to my brothers on the 29 and then back to work for the next 5 days.
With everything that is going on I will just be happy to maintain my weight over this crazy time and to stay well. Right now the nursing home I work in has the stomach flu about a 1/4 of the residents have it so i sure hope I don't get it and bring it home we had it last year at Christmas and I don't want a repeat proformance. Anagram I hope your dh gets better soon.

sunday night
 

Hello all, kinda tired today cant sleep so i'll chat with you all.

Ellis..My life right now isent the wat i want it to be, but i'm thankfull for what i got. never take that for granted. I'm working on making my life better, and myself better. ;)

Amarantha...dont let the scale,mess with your mind. I read somewhere that alot of people who are just starting to drink alot of water, are really dehydrated, and when you drink, the body will actually hold onto it for awhile, untill your body is hydrated again, so you gain a little water weight, i thought it was interesting since i find it hard to drink alot of water. I do like the flavored water at walmart though.

Well i bought a pair of jeans yesterday dident want to but need them, thank God for spandex. :lol: There just my size 90 percent jeans 10 percent spandex, so they fit me well. I hope they will be too big in 2 months. :lol: Then i'll buy a smaller pair. OK i'll tell ya they were a size 22. :eek:

hello
 

Hey my post got cut off!!!! That never happend before, so i came back, i wasent done yet.haha anyway pray that my jeans make it through jan. and feb, then i'm done with them. ;)
Interesting tips i found.....
Losing 2 pounds a week equels out to be 104 pounds a year!!

Put a fat photo of yourself on the fridge, it may stop you!!!

Visualize yourself thin and healthy,make a goal chart and stick to it.
Everytime you lose 10 pounds, award yourself with a movie, or treat, or gift certificate.

Re-measure yourself once a month, you'll be surprized at the inches you lost.

Natural foods are best, eat them more often than frozen and prepackaged.

Try one new food a week, to make your diet exciting.

Dont diet dont tell yourself your on one, just say i'm making better choices.

Leave your confort zone!!! Yes we all have them. Whats yours??

Read labels, eat right, make the step to eating healthy, and moving, and the weight will come off.

well see ya later , love to you all, and luck on the weight loss journeys, for they may be long but the destination is worth the weight lost,
I keep trying to see myself this time next year, i dont want to be ringing in the new year a fat person again that lie is over. I might actually go out for new years and leave dick clark in the living room alone.haha:lol: goodnight all..later and lighter
senamay:cool:

Monday!
 

Hello all!

The weekend went by too fast----

My car is now w/ all new tires but DH's vehicle just made it to a gararge near his job Friday- Fluids leaking, steam pumping- hopefully just a hose or whatever- We'll know later today but this morning will be the one car shuffle.

Dollar- this so exciting for you! How terrific that everyone is welcoming and glad to go forward!! Sometimes you hear different outcomes to birth mother searches. And yes, be careful around those flu germs!

Senamay-- Jeans sizes seem to be a whole different animal! My dress pants are 1-2 sizes smaller than my jeans and the jeans are baggy in some places but not the waistband! You may be pleasantly suprised if you tried on another item of clothing. Thanks for the tips, its always good to review!


Speaking of review, not sure how I missed this but evidently I've been teetering on the edge of some "milestone " numbers.
As I logged in this morning's weighin, my weighttracker says that with this weeks loss I'm showing 40.5 lbs down. Now, as many of you remember, initially, I don't know what my starting weight was as the first 2 months I didnt want to know. It wastn until clothes were loose that started checking and then, I couldnt read my old dial!! :lol: ( Moral to that story- if you lean over to far, the scale reads higher- spend the money and get a digital !!)

Interesting how you think you are very focused and yet the bigger picture still takes you by suprise.
Please mark me down for 1.5 down this week.

On that note, Today's thought is:

"It's always something" - Roseann Roseannadanna

Here's to the best choices!

Amarantha - start 163, goal 159, Current 160 :cb::cb::cb:
Anagram - start 224.2, goal 220
Arabella - start 211, goal 204
Autumn609 - start 210, goal 204, Current 208.5:cb:
Ceara - start 187, goal 178, Current 189!
Cybele - start 173, goal 169,curent 171.5:cb::cp:
Dollar - start 197.4, goal 190 (?)
Ellis - start 189, goal 186, Current 186 ;cb::cb::cb:
Eydie - start~150, goal 145, Current 150
Flower - waist start 41.5", goal 39.5"

Other half coming...too many :cb:'s

Ceara