Yo! Ho!
 

Weekly check-in
 

Greetings to all...

WI again today, and the results are in the right direction, but oh-so-minimal! Ceara, when you get a chance can you mark me down to 171? It was a half pound drop, nothing like I had hoped from my hard work...but I must be encouraged that at least I weigh less than I did when I started, and that the progress will continue. Some of my clothes fit a little better, although still not any big change. DH says he notices it a bit in the face, which is quite encouraging!

In other news - we're having a bit of a warm front here, nothing like some of the freezing, icing, craziness that some of you are getting. Yesterday it was so warm that I went out to get some exercise by raking up leaves that STILL clutter the yard... plan to do more of this today. I like exercise that shows immediate results somewhere, since the results on me are a bit delayed!

Having fun with the sewing machine...the dog jacket came out very cute, and the dog doesn't seem to mind wearing it. He knows when I put it on that he gets to go for a walk, so it seems worth it to him. Plan to start on some curtains after the holidays.

Am thinking of doing some Christmas baking, but am focusing on doing healthier cookies...have found quite a few good recipies. On the cooking line, I also wanted to add (in case some of you were interested but not aware) that the magazine Cooking Light has a website (I believe it's cookinglight.com) and one of their threads there is a "Supper Club." People from all around the US have posted there to find others interested in getting together to cook good, healthy food to enjoy together. DH and I are trying to get one started out here, and thought some of you might enjoy the solidarity and accountability (not to mention recreation!) that such a club could bring.

Glad to hear so much good news from everyone, and for those of you going through a tough time (Tipper, Senamay) my thoughts are with you. I know you have the strength in you to overcome what life puts in your path to help teach you.

Take care, all!
Cheers,
Cybele

Hi All! I forgot to weigh in today (as I like to do this on friday for some odd reason) so I'll have to do that tommorow. Thanks for the words of encouragement on the stuffing of my face yesterday. Actually, I'll admit that the cookies weren't all that great tasting probebly why I didn't eat another. But man the fudge was awesome and I had to keep busy and FAR FAR AWAY from it!!!
I'm at 36 oz of water today. I always get stuck at this number everyday. Any ideas on how to drink the rest? I drink at work and then by the time I get home, I'm not interested anymore.

Pray for me girls fiance wants to go out to the California Pizza Kitchen tonight. I LOVE their 5 cheese and fresh tomato pizza. I guess I could love worse things. =)

I don't usually check in on the weekends, so if I don't have a good one!

Hi all
Just stopping in. we had our holiday party last nite and everyone commented on my weight lose which is nice. Now the goal is to keep it off for next year ...maybe take another 30 off.Hope i can do that. The holiday chocolates and cakes are rolling in...and since im thinner this year im more willing to go out and then of course there is the food that got me to stay in the first place. Oh well i cant wail til this season is finally over!

Friday eve!
 

Hello all!

:rain: :rain: :rain: :rain:

Sheets of rain started about 3 pm-- We've had so much wet weather even between the rain and snow, the dogs automatically sit down on the throw rug next to the door so I can rub them down and get the worst of it off their paws.

This time of year is so rich in memories. We are reminded all day by a song, a smell, a decoration -- and then comes that certain thing that touches that place in you that makes the past as fresh as yesterday. Many of us, also have lost loved ones this time of year as well.
For myself, "I'll be home for Christmas" can make me teary . And my only explanation is the emotion of the song- -

Add to that, the thousands of things we need to get done-

And still cope w/ the reality of our lives! No wonder I have a fever blister the size of a dime!

Another thread reminded that this time of year we really need to be there for each other as we need the support more.
How well put don't you think?

Arabella, I'd like to make you a cup of tea. You've had your share-

We do tend to keep our sad feelings buried. We take more pride in saying " She's a rock" than " She was shaken but recovered".
Sometimes, what helps me, is an hour or so alone. Walking alone even better. Its never changed anything except how I felt.
And that was a big help.

Until the morning!

Good evening everyone,
Well my week is finally overand Im off for the weekend. We are still closed at work and things just aren't much better. I sure hope that by the time I go back Mon that it will have improved somewhat. Public Health didn't give us much hope however because some of the residents have had a recurrence and they told us to expect that. Morale is also start to be affected in both the residents and staff.
Enough of that for now it just gets boring after awhile. Well I have to run my grandson is still up so I must get him off to bed.

Hi all! Thanks for all the support. I know that my troubles are really miniscule. It's just that I often don't allow myself to even admit that they affect me. I used to cry not infrequently - and not coincidentally - laugh a lot more than I do now. The numbing really gets pervasive. And I think any time I've got stuff going on I just pack on a few pounds instead of dealing with it emotionally. No more! I want to be fully alive!

I had a pretty good day yesterday, although I didn't meet my exercise goals. I'm going to put in extra effort to do so, because I know it will make me feel much better. And lose weight. Doubt that I'll come anywhere close to hitting my Christmas goal, but maybe by New Years. I still intend to have some treats, but controlled. And I'm going to save myself for the best ones. I'm making truffles (orange-ginger, peppermint candy cane, eggnog) for holiday parties and will have one of each.

Amarantha, I think you're right. Just an accumulation of too many things at one time. And I have been self-medicating too, but I have put a stop to it. So hard, but I know that all I have to do is follow my rules and it will suddenly get much easier. It's like everything falls into place and it's not such a struggle any more.

Speaking of which, I found out something interesting/disturbing when I was out for dinner with a couple of friends. I said something about never throwing up and one of them said, "You NEVER throw up?" I said that I hadn't in about 12 years. Both of these (slender) women said that they used throwing up as a means of maintaining their weight, that they both binged occasionally and when they did would purge. There has got to be a better way!

Kaylets, wouldn't it be great if we could all get together for a cup of tea! I found myself thinking of you yesterday when I was feeling down. You just have the best attitude :) I shall cultivate my positivity and optimism! Because really, it's all perspective.

I was putting together a carol sheet for my family party tomorrow from lyrics I found on the web (isn't the Internet fantastic!) and I would sing a little bit and then get a lump in my throat. "Have yourself a Merry Little Christmas" and "The Coventry Carol" really get me.

Scooby, what a year you've had! No wonder you got compliments at the party - you must have been walking on air!

Dollar, hope your work woes are better by Monday. How old is your grandson? Mine is 15 months, and the joy of my life. But - MAN! Does he keep me running! He is just started to get interested in lego and coloring though, which will actually keep him in one spot for a bit. He's fascinated by the stairs and will spend a LOT of time just going up and down. :shrug:

Frogger - Welcome to the thread! You picked a good one! How did your pizza challenge go? You're right, fudge can be a deadly peril! Sweet and deadly!

Cybele, congrats on the half-pound loss. This time of year, any loss is fantastic! And it sounds as if you'll likely have a bigger loss to make up for it next time.

Punkin, you're right, my son's hurt is what is the worst for me. His life was briefly on an even keel after a few years of horrible struggles with employment, his girlfriend going off the pill and not telling him and the resulting pregnancy. Last year he was all but suicidal. Now he's got a reasonably good job, and although he's not on perfect terms with his ex, he adores his son and derives a great deal of joy from him. Then his long-time friends rejected him. For some reason, I think this is not unconnected to him doing better. Anyway, I know that we all have to feel pain, but his hurts me worse than mine.

Eydie, congratulations on cutting those ties. I know it's hard, but those kinds of friendships aren't really nurturing. I expect that your friend didn't see the interactions the same way that you did. That sort of thing always makes me feel sad, too. Hope you feel better about it.

Tipper, I'm sorry for your loss. Even though it also gives you sort of a new lease on life, such things are difficult. And the way we respond to these things is not always predictable, even if we mostly feel one way. Probably also some hormone activity going on (hey, when isn't there :rolleyes: )

Anagram, so glad you're DH (dear husband - I think someone asked what it stood for?) is out of danger. Time to celebrate!

All Elfettes, both mentioned and unmentioned: Let's make this a good one. Love to all!

Senamay, let's start losing now!

Simply Saturuday!
 

Been at the stores since 5:15 am and have found 2 items I'm very pleased with one for Dstepgrandson and a great one for the daily Secret Santa.

Running back out to go to Strawbridges as they open at 7am hoping to find a few others. I don't do well dealing w/ crowds so this is the time for me.

I'll be back later as ( and when don't I?) have some other thoughts--

Today's thought is:

*******A son and his father were walking on the mountains.
Suddenly, his son falls, hurts himself and screams: "AAAhhhhhhhhhhh!!!"
To his surprise, he hears the voice repeating,
somewhere in the mountain:

"AAAhhhhhhhhhhh!!!"
Curious, he yells: "Who are you?"
He receives the answer: "Who are you?"
Angered at the response, he screams: "Coward!"
He receives the answer: "Coward!"
He looks to his father and asks: "What's going on?"
The father smiles and says: "My son, pay attention."
And then he screams to the mountain: "I admire you!"
The voice answers: "I admire you!"
Again the man screams: "You are a champion!"
The voice answers: "You are a champion!"
The boy is surprised, but does not understand.
Then the father explains: "People call this ECHO,

but really this is LIFE.

Our life is simply a reflection of our actions.
***********

To the best choices!
:genie:

Sat midday
 

Hello all!

DH and I ran errands and etc. Tried a restaurant a coworker is in process of buying. Its a little Italian place- we went to try the eggplant parmigan (sp?) -- Forgot to ask how they prepared the eggplant and was suprised to find it fried-- You'd think it would've been the second question we asked! :dizzy:

Empress A, yes, that's the trick isnt it? Keeping it healthy yet satisfying-- and convenient!! Not familiar w/ the triangle doughtnut but I imagine you could figure the points- same w/the dulce la leche- Perhaps every so often, you could plan to use "banked" points and stay pretty much on point?
Keeping it interesting is one of the reasons for my "Try 2 new things a week" --
We've been relying a lot on cooking for at least 2 meals at a time.
Saved us a couple times already when time was tight and tempers short-- We enjoy thick soups, too which are always better the second day anyhow.
And was wondering, how do you pronounce Glurp (Sp?) ? :dizzy:
Just in case it comes up in real conversation, I don't want to
sound silly! :^:
Punkinseed, yes, I think I might need to borrow Filbert or one of his relatives from this coast since I wouldnt want to leave you without!! :^:

As for all of us, we are doing the best we can, the best we know how!!

Skating's on so I'll stop now!

Arebella my grandson is 21/2 and a great joy in my life. sure does keep me going though.

need to catch up here..
 

Man you guys posted alot since my last post!! Kinda got the scratchy throat thing going on here.yuck.
CYBELE... thanks for thinking of me, everyday is hard in its own way. I'm trying to hang in there untill i see that silver lining? Hope i do someday. depression and anxiety stink and i dont want to feel this way but its like your fighting yourself.
AMARANTHA...about your donut story, i think if your good all week or month, then have the donut, its not gonna make you gain back all the weight you lost, but heres my tip..(make the donut a choice, you choose to have it count it in your points and dont feel guilty about it, because you made it a choice,not a cheat!! I read that somewhere. I like it. good luck to you on ww weigh in day.
(by the way, i could use another crystal ball reading!) :lol:
EYDIE...looking up to you on your courage to let a friend go, i have one and shes sweet and all , but gets on my nerves alittle.
She thinks im her bestest friend in the whole world, she cuts her hair like me, bought shoes like me, started wearing make up like me, even offered me to move in with her and share stuff like herHUSBAND!!!!!!!! HELLO< kinda crazy dont you think, i was shocked that she would even think of me like that . I would never share someones husband, weird. so she kinda creeps me out alittle bit.
ARABELLA... depressed!! Well i had to post and say first of all i know what your going through, i hate it but it wont go away! I try , but it sneaks up on me. Think of what you should be thankfull for, that works sometimes for me, Im 33 yrs old, and lost both my parents to cancer,within 5 yrs. Then my marriage well, he drives me crazy. we are so different, good luck to you hope things get better. SCOOBY..thanks for the (lets start losing now!) i needed that real bad, it was like a personal kick in my big butt!!! hahaha :lol: well to all a goodnight... later and lighter senamay:wave: :wave: :wave: :wave:

Sounds like a lot of people have depressing things in their lives. Hang in, all! And I hope the spirit of Christmas may bring you peace.

this was meant to be a quick lurk but I find it sometimes irresistible. After BRAGGING how I was not giving in to comfort food, I did three nights in a row overindulge, twice on chocolate and once on gum drops. I do plan treats as I know I need them but those were the old-me style of just doing it even when the conscience said they wouldn't really help the situation.

We hope to bring DH home today or tomorrow. He is very weak, still on oxygen and will need dialysis three days a week. I chose to bring him home instead of a rehab because I know it will be better for him. For me, I don't know. I think I can handle all the at home stuff but getting him to dialysis as weak as he is - well that's another story. I think I'll tell him that we'll opt for wheelchair transport the first few times.

My son is here again (he's been such a supportive doll - I'd go on about all his good qualities but sorry, he's already taken). And will help bring him home. Daughter is coming today as well. Tomorrow is her 40th birthday and I'm planning at least a cake today either at hospital or here if dh comes home. All the other good plans went by wayside except (I hope) the videotape of good wishes her dh was working on.

So, my good green tea awaits. Busy day ahead= busy weeks, for sure and maybe busy months. It will be a good Christmas because DH will be with us. He still "lights up my life".

Sorry, no personal posts. I've missed so much but do try to lurk occasionally and stick as much as possible to my goals. Thanks for caring!

Scrumptious Sunday!
 

Hello all!

Today's thought is: "A disciple once complained, "You tell us stories, but you never reveal their meaning to us." The master replied, "How would you like it if someone offered you fruit and chewed it up for you before giving it to you?" Source Unknown from 3rd Serving of Chicken Soup

I'm Back
 

Gosh it feels like I've been gone awhile.

Hang in everyone! This time of year can be tough - emotions, parties, illness, end of year regrets, etc all seem to collide at this time. I have no great insights to handle it better than the next person, but I do try to take it a moment at a time. Helps me cope. :flow2:

I had a good trip to Indianapolis. The weather didn't affect my flights too much, thankfully. I met my new boss and alot of people from his team. All seem very very happy that I'm joining them and welcomed me very enthusiastically. Nice feeling. He promised me that I will be able to keep my travelling to a minimum but did agree that I will need to do some. So maybe I won't be travelling as much as I thought. That's a good thing. I would have missed my DH and 2 DDs very much. We'll see how it goes. It may be just fine and I could have lucked out!

Amazingly, I stayed OP and exercised while in Indy. I was impressed with myself, I have to admit!! :) I usually take advantage of a change in my routine to not do what I'm "supposed" to do. I even did additional exercise on a stairmaster. Hadn't been on a stairmaster in close to 10 years! But I kept it at a low setting and did 30 mins on it! :D

Yesterday was a party at my B-I-L ... nice time but I was tired and not up to being "bright and perky". We left much earlier than normal (we're usually the last to go; they were visibly surprised when we said our g'byes). I was glad to get home and rest. I guess the travelling tired me out. The good news is that I didn't over-do it at the party - I allowed myself a few things, and had "planned" for the allowance. Again, I was pretty impressed with myself for doing well. Parties are usually a great excuse for me to eat.

Today is the official "Gift Wrapping Day" at my house. Yes, we've put it off long enough. I am not a big fan of gift wrapping - I use the gift bags whenever possible. So much simpler! :lol:

Please everyone, hang in and do the best you can at keeping your spirits in a positive place. Don't worry about the off-plan things you've eaten... sometimes it's what we have to do. But then move on, and get back to your plan. Here's a little angel for each of you... to help you through the rough patches.... :angel:

We can do this! We can do this!!!! :goodvibes

10 Days to Go!

Not yet ...
 

Well, Elfettes, Amarantha couldn't hold off the muttering crowd any longer and she be very happy to report that her off week only netted a gain of 1.5 pounds and she is NOT back where she started on this challenge, so here she goes for another go-round!

Ceara, when thou is updating, will thou update my current weight. No matter if thou can't, as Amarantha will be back down next week. Can she do it?! Yes! :cb:

Decided the donut was 10 points and going to go get one!!! Woo-hoo! Back on track!

Have renamed my personal transformation challenge to Jadequest! Why? Dunno. :)

Here's my report on ME, ME, ME! (True, I'm an egoist! It's a curse!):

Amarantha's Jadequest (formerly, Personal Transformation Challenge):

Starting Jadequest Weight: 166.5
Current Weight: 161.5
Jadequest Pounds Lost: 5.5
: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)!!!
Motto: Following Jadepath to Jadeweight!

hello on sunday
 

wow , AMARANTHA.. you are such a good motivator. I always think when i read your weight challenge, how much weight you lost. You weigh today what i should weigh and im far from it at the moment. Heres my question for you, How do you stay so motivated that long to lose that much. I always start out good then gain afew pounds then get discusted with myself, well you know how it happens . Just curiouse how you do it. Because i need some help over here . I'm in that thinking of ( well after the holidays i'm gonns kick butt.) Which is just somthing i tell myself every new year. Im tired of lying to myself, and putting everyone before myself..

well later and lighter everyone else hello, and have a good week.

:yes: monday morning its back in the
"Y" for me, even if i dont think i want
too. we are on the treadmill!!!!!!!!!!

Sunday pm
 

Hello all!

Been nonstop all day today! Hit the stores literally 5 minutes after I posted the thought of the day -- came back and had breakfast, made a phone call to Florida and then did an inventory w/ DH that took us 5 hrs- Someone may take all we have which would be a real boost-- we could use the room too!
Then we ran to our storage bin and good thing too because, sure enough, we found more!! We have our fingers crossed but either way, we are organized and that's a big plus too.

This morning's Kmart/Walmart run I found that Kmart is also selling 0 calorie flavored water. I think the Kmart is slightly less bubbly but I dont know for sure. Good thing to know - we have more Kmarts than Walmarts so could be handy.

Autumn! I love how so many hotels/motels have excercise rooms-
Good for you finding it on your trip! I read somewhere that excercise relieves jet lag but you're the only one I know who's flown lately. Glad to hear the new boss had better news for you.
Sometimes when a door closes, the window that opens is a lovely great big bay window!

Senamay! Some of the others mention a "mental click" that happens when you've decided "It's time, I'm ready". We all do the best we can- sometimes we don't see any progress but as long as we're pointed in the right direction, we are still IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION.

Well, the timer rang almost 3 minutes ago so I guess its time to go- I need to wrap this evening as well. A box needs to get to DD and Sil. DD's stepson does the holiday on his weekend w/ his dad so they may be celebrating early.

Anagram- so glad to hear your DH is well enough to come home!
I know this is a very special Christmas for you!


Till later!



S

Addendum: Amarantha realizeth she hath overhogged this thread today, but wishes to add one more point to Senamay, since Senamay started Amarantha off in the preacher mode, so hoping Senamay will forgive Amarantha for the long windness and soapboxy behavior, BUT ...

Senamay: I like what thou hast said about how we sometimes lie to ourselves with this "after the holidays, I'm gonna lose weight" stuff. What better time to dedicate ourselves to the journey than the hardest time of all ... the holidays ... or what better time than what is really the only time that matters NOW!

Why do we think we are waiting for something to do what we really want to do? What are we waiting for? Will it ever come or will we still be waiting 20 years from now?

Ok, now I'm finished. :wave:

thanks.
 

AMARANTHA.... it is 11pm,and i thought i'd check the forum before bed to see who posted, and there you were. Just wanted to say thanks to you again, and dont ever think you are rambling or wrighting to much. I enjoy your postings, and advice.
Your advice i will take to heart. Did you see my post to you about the donut dalima, well i said make it a choice and not a cheat!!
Thats where you dont feel so guilty, about eating somthing.

well hello to everyone else.
PUNKINSEED....how is the red hair doing for you? i had mine colored a hint of red once, kinda brown, but when the sun hit it,it turned hints of rred auburn, pretty, but it wasent me, i like my light brown with blonde highlights better!! Still open for more tips from Dr.punkin also, whatever that may be.;)

Havent weighed in for awhile, call it scale freight? But i font think i lost anyway. I'll weigh in Friday then post. Dont think i will meet me christmas challenge, but i am getting built up for the new year!!

Dont give up on me ladies, your my motivators and friends! I really look forward to reading your post. I want to apologize(i know we arent suppose to on this thread but.... i dont want anyone out there to think i dont read up on there journeys, because i dont send post to everyone. Its hard for me to keep up with everyones stories. Must be a talent i dont have.:p

But i do read all post every day! And sometimes certain people will stand out, and thats who i talk too. But you all are special to me, and i miss you when you dont post.

goodnight and sleep tight and dont let the bedbugs bight.:lol:

my new years journey,will be called (losing sena) since i will be transforming myself into a new person, wish me luck...
and speaking of our next challenge, i hope there is one!!!
I need you guys.. any comments on what to call it. i think amarantha had a name . see ya later....

later and lighter senamay...:df: :df:

Marvelous Monday!
 

Helllo All!!

Oh boy how some of those muscles will talk to you when you've overdone it!

But its a good feeling too-- especially good visual as well- just another reward of reorganization!! Now to clear all the boxes away from the excercise machines!!:dizzy: :dizzy:

I am puzzled this am as my weighin shows a gain- Will recheck some of the ingredients to the soups we've had a lot of lately --
could also be TOM as that's off schedule too- -- Initially I was just going to call it "maintain" and I still like that term but the reality is 1.5 lbs up-- So that's what we'll list-- I have been drinking more coffee than usual-- wonder if there's a connection--

anyway- don't even need a NO GUILT card on this one because even if I was eating off program, I didnt realize it!! ( how many points is barley anyway?) Hmmmmm-- I do remember a study of folks who's digestive systems started working just by smelling favorite foods-- wonder if there's really anything truth to " I only have to look at ......... to gain weight?" -- oh my, aren't we silly this am-- :dizzy: :dizzy:
and if I was showing a 1.5 loss I'd be smug at how clever I was!!
:^:

Today's thought is: "Humor is mankind's greatest blessing." Mark Twain

To the best choices!:genie:

senamay-all I can think about your 'friend' story is Single White Female (have you ever seen that movie?) creepy!

Arabella- pizza challenge went surprisingly well!! We didn't go to the California Pizza Kitchen afterall, but we did go to a favorite little dive we frequent. I got their buffet. I know I know!! BUT I hummos and pita bread (which i know is bad, but I only had a little) a salad (with light ranch dressing) and 1 slice of peperoni pizza. I was STUFFED. I really shouldn't have eaten the slice because I was getting full from just the salad. Something I have to work on.

Still 5lbs down, so no gain last week. I'm glad.

Yo! Empress Amarantha be sticking to the straight and narrow Christmas Countdown on this thread from now on!!! :) Going to move all the fantasy Jadequest stuff to the journal, just because I be an obsessive poster and can't help it but don't want to make others lose focus on what this is really supposed to be ... a Christmas Challenge!!! Woo-hoo!!! I'm counting my consecutive OP days also hoping to reach 21!!!

I like the journal page, quit doing it because a comment was made on my journal that I thought was rude ... but posting animal that I be ... :cb:

Senamay, thanks for thy kind words!!! Don't worry about apologizing for not addressing everyone, we are all talking to each other and we all like and understand each other well on this thread. BTW, I did see thy donut advice and took it ... think I'll limit that to Sundays because that's when I'm on deadline and stressed!!!

Kaylets: Feel not like the Lone Ranger, Kemo Sabe!! Amarantha's gain this week be also 1.5, howesomever, Amarantha had eaten a house each day that week, so thou be doing really good and it is doubtless water.

In the Empire o' Fit Folk, we DO call that maintenance!!!! :cb: Good job with the NO GUILT policy. That's important!!!!

I'm a Happy Camper!
 

Couldn't believe what I saw when I WI'd this morning ....

I am down 3.0 lbs! YAHOO!!! :dance: :dance: :dance:

That brings my Christmas Challenge losses to 7 lbs, and that means I've already met my Christmas Challenge Goal! YAHOO Again! :cb: :cb: :cb:

So I will reset my goal from 6 to 10 - can I lose 3 more in in just 9 days? Maybe not but what the heck, I feel motivated this morning! :lol:

Here's the recap:

Challenge Start 210
Original Challenge Goal -6, 204
New Challenge Goal -10, 200
Current Loss at -7, 203


Now just keep those chocolates and cookies away from me! :)

Have a great day everyone! I'll try to log on tonight to catch up with you all!

Monday evening!
 

Wow Autumn! If that's what jetlag does the airline industry should use it in their advertising and their financial woes would be resolved! Good going!

Empress A ( habits are hard to break!) Since you've mentioned journal- How do you find someone's journal if they arent on the list of "most entries"-- I know I will say a big "duh" when you explain it but right now it escapes me.

I'll check back in later!

Wow, only an hour left to work on Monday and I'm just now getting to post!

Got all my presents mailed this morning (hence the lack of 'puter time - I was awol from work ;) ) and even got my Christmas cards sent - even the one to Italy (which may or may not make it on time...). Next year someone needs to push Thanksgiving and Christmas further apart!

Kaylets - I'll be home for Christmas never bothered me until I moved from all my friends. Now, I can't get through that song without tearing up. :cry:
Let me see... I believe Filbert's cousin on the east coast is named Vinny. He's a tough bug...

Dollar - Wow, your work is still closed? Probably better to keep it from spreading, but it must be hard on everyone. Hope everyone's better soon!

Arabella - Uh, (sorry, sarcasm directed at those women), I believe throwing up to maintain/lose weight is called bulimia :eek: (juuuust in case these women didn't know that). How scary! Good for you that you've never gone that direction... I used to work with a girl who was "recovering" from bulimia - from talking to her it sounds like it never really ends.

Scooby - You hottie you! :cb: You deserve all those compliments! I know I could live a week on a "you look different - what is it?" (cuz they never want to say "gee, you look good thinner").

Amarantha - Daaaahling... we must pick our battles! I chose to quit fighting cheese - I'm gonna eat it and when I do I try to just eat it, enjoy it and get over it. I don't keep much of it in the house though. I have things I'm willing to give up - and things I'm *not* willing, because they serve some purpose to me. I will never, ever give up my Mom's nasty, fat-laden, cheesy, gooey meatloaf. No, never. I will never count its points and I will never feel guilty about it. I will however, curb things that are "expendable" (Burger King, breakfast donuts, etc...) because they're just not "worth" it to me - physically and emotionally.
So, my point, and I do have one, is, if glurping (love that word) your occasional dulce de leche and vanilla nummy is what fixes your ills - then let it be your fix. There are some things for which there is *no* substitute and you end up eating 3x as much trying NOT to eat that one thing than had you just eaten the damned thing in the first place! :dizzy:
It's all about one, silly, underused word - MODERATION.... (duh, I know we know this, but it bears repeating sometimes)

Anagram - I'm so happy your hubby's going to make it home for the holidays!!! Please tell him we've all been thinking of him - yea, he doesn't know us, but wow, has he had some 'round the country support!

Autumn - You big 'ol looser you! ;) I guess you did just fine with your trip to Indy huh? The travelin' pro...

Senamay - I'm sure you can bet on another challenge - maybe a Valentine's day challenge??

Frogger - Buffet? That should be a curse word.... I'm thankful that the only place like a Sizzler or Izzy's (pizza buffet) is over an hour away! I couldn't do it.... Good for you!!

Ok, the red hair. NOT what I would call "Irish Setter" - garnet? cranberry? much closer a' discription. I like it, it's really dark - almost looks goth on me since I'm so fair, but my Mom loves it and she's usually the first to say :no: to anything too out there.

Oh, and weight. I was down 1/2 pound on Sat. morning and up 1 pound this morning. Saturday night was the Ranch's Christmas party. So, I donno' where I'm at. I'm just proud of the fact that I'm holding steady and not up my usual 5-10+ pounds that I normally would have put on by now!

Ta' for now!

Terri

:wave:

Hi everyone. Sorry I've been AWOL for so long....I'm JUST starting to feel remotely human again. Still have the cough and the sniffles, but I think the worst is past. Ended up with a sinus infection after the sore throat/no voice/coughing all freakin' night let up some. I've been sick since the 2nd of December....but hopefully I'll be better by next Tuesday 'cause I start 13 DAYS OFF WORK!!!! I don't go back until the 6th.

I've lost 2 pounds, and it isn't 'cause I've been sick....I've eaten enough ice cream and popsicles to last a lifetime.

I better go finish wrapping stuff to mail....every year I do this...it's the last minute and I'm mailing packages with fingers crossed that they will arrive in time. I bought the stuff weeks ago!

I'll catch up with all of you later!

all coughed out!!
 

Hello all, I also have been coughing till the cows come home.
I'm so drained, i try to sleep then end up coughing somemore, oh well i feel a little better., Well christmas is almost here, my shopping well its done other than my brothers gist. Money is tight this year. I need to open a christmas club at the bank for next year. Those are neat because you cant withdraw the money!! hahahaha ;) thats what id do.
FROGGER...yes i have seen SWF the movie, it's an awsome movie, your right pretty creepy. Its funny you mentioned that because i was reminded of that movie when she started doing all this stuff. HELP!! hahaha not to worry, i dont do things i use to with her. We arent as close
. Kinda got scared off.:fr:

AUTUMN..A BIG CONGRATULATIONS!!!!whoooo hoooo!
i'm celebrating with ya. On your 3 pounds, and meeting your challenge. good job. I'm waitin for the next challenge i set mine to high.haha(
:s: :s: :s: goodbye to those 3 ugley pounds for good)!!
well until next time, oh by the way i got my before photos back yesterday, they dont look to bad for a fat chick, but lets just say , i hope theres an after photo shoot soon.:smug:
This summer i will be stylin..:cool: my futures so bright i gotta wear shades!!! Later and lighter senamay...
__________________________________
my phrase for the day..A dream is only a dream until you wake up

Tenacious Tuesday!
 

Hello all!

Still very stiff and sore from Sunday! If it wasnt so crazy I'd be tempted to call out but it's an unwritten "rule" that during December, you drag yourself in. Hopefully the coffee, asprin, and hot shower will help.

Wildfire! Nice to see you on board! You mentioned being AWOL and then later I saw your signature quote and now I must ask, what exactly have you been doing?? :lol: :lol:

Punkinseed! Yes, thanks, please have Vinny be available tomorrow, I have a Holiday Luncheon as well as Holiday Pizza Party (???) in the evening.

Just had a vision of what my "dining room/living room" would look like rearranged so I took a break from this post and did just that-
Got my heart pumping some and I am somewhat pleased w/ the results. Another lesson in perspective I guess. Course, everytime you rearrange like that, it creates a domino effect--- hmmm--

Ok, got hit the shower--

Today's thought is:
"We must not only give what we have; we must also give what we are." Cardinal Mercia

To the best choices!

Yo! Good-morning. Posted my progress on the Jadequest Journal, aka, the journal page I've newly revived, but suffice to say that I'm now allowing myself a day off a week and had it yesterday!! Back on track, woo-hoo! :)

Punkin: Definetely the donut is in, but not the dulce de leche! It really is a useless food and I'd just keep gaining if I used it as "medication!" :)

Re bullemia, it DOES end if you get treatment and usually without as you age, unless it is so severe you die. Sorry if this sounds blunt, but this is a serious, life-threatening disease (which I suffered from for many years) and it is NOT something that should cause guilt or shame. It is NOT something that is your fault or that anyone should look down on your for. If anyone is out there bingeing and purging (even mildly) in any form (not only vomiting, but also using laxatives, excessive exercise, etc.), please talk to someone about this (preferably your doctor). There is no reason to suffer in silence and there is no reason to continue to do it. It can stop and you can feel good again. It can never result in permanent weight loss and it will damage your precious one-of-a-kind body.

I can't see Arabella's post, so am just responding to Punkin's mention of it and apologize if any offense is given, as it's not my intent! :)

Kaylets: Good job on the Furniture Rearranging Workout! I haven't changed my furniture around since I've lived in this house. What a good idea! :)

To Anyone Who Has Lost on This Challenge or Made Their Goal, congratulations!!!! Hope I can join thee soon on that level! Sorry I seem to have lost the thread of what some are doing. Dunno, have lost focus. Hope it comes back soon!!! :)

My final challenge weigh-in is this Sunday, so it is remotely possible I'll make my goal. Dunno! :shrug:

There's always another goal, though. :)

hello tuesday..
 

hi from the buckeye state.. only 28 degrees here today, brrrr/ cant wait till summer. But in a way my body isent ready for that yet! We wont go there. I'm bored today and tired of being sick, i have coughed so much, i hate it.
O.K. I cant stand it anymore, i need to know when our next challenge is, just a little excited about that for some reason. Dont mean to be pushy. Theres alot going on this month in my house just like every one elses, im shur. Well the kids get out of school in 3 day s, everyone start praying!! :sp: just get a little stressed when there home. Love them a lot there my whole world, the reason i get up everyday. But when they start fighting help!!!
well a good tuesday to everyone , i must go find somthing to do.
Like i'm shur that will be hard, hahahahahaha:lol:
later and lighter...senamay:cool:

hola ladies! What's shakin'?
I had a few moments to pen a check-in. I'll be honest and say I'm awefully hungry today. I'm being good though!!! I had oatmeal for breakfast, a nutrigrain bar for snack, lean cuisine chicken cabonara (my fav one!) for lunch exactly 23 minutes ago. I'm just plain hungry again. I may fix a cup of soup but not right now! I refuse to stuff my face. I'll wait to see if I am truely hungry. I've had 36oz of water already today so thirst is not an issue.
Tonight is my office christmas party at a club in DC. Since it starts at 6, I'm going to skip eating dinner and eat a few of the decadent hor'dovers (or however you spell it) I know they will have. Control control. I'm limiting myself to 2 drinks.


OK,OK 3, but no more!!!!



We also have a small gathering this afternoon with junk food on the roster. I shall resist!! OK I won't resist but I'll be good! (Just trying to sike myself up for the next few days of debotchery) Today's gatherings and then tommorow we have our project's christmas pizza party. I'm hoping to snag a salad and eat one slice of pizza. I can do it, I've done it before.

I'm not playing around anymore ladies. I'm getting married in May and I WILL look fabulous! I'm not talking super skinny, I just want to be healthy and not 'big' anymore. I'm tired of feeling the way I do. I'm only 23 for gosh sakes!!
I'll report back in tommorow and let you know how it goes!

hiya
 

;) hi people,

Not to much going on. Im very tired but that is not so uncommon for me. I have been dating alot...so been drinking a lot of tea.
Good news i weighted in and i am at 182. I hope i can hold on to that before the new years...maybe bring it down to 180 bye new years. that would be awesome.

Will check in later. Hope everyone is having a fun holiday season! Lots of shopping and cheer!

Sheryl

Ooooh, Christmas.... :mad: Something I ordered for my girlfriend's son is back-ordered and won't be in until January - so back to the stores I go!!!!

Kaylets - You bet, Vinny will breaka' da' kneecaps of any fool who eats too much pizza! ;)

Frogger - Congrats on the upcoming nups. Of course you'll be beautiful and of course we expect pictures... :yes:

Scooby - Congrats on the loss! Isn't it nice to feel like you've got a handle on things through the holidays? Dating a lot huh??? ;)

Senamay - Well, I think the next challenge would/could be for Valentine's day - but we need a consensus of all who think that'd be good for the next challenge. Since no one's died and made me Goddess, I don't want to make the decisions for us all (well, I *am* a goddess, but, oh nevermind...).

So what do you all think?? After Christmas we start a Valentine's day challenge?? That would be 7 1/2 weeks from next Wednesday. My only request is that no one refer to it as "VD" - I *hate* that...

Rx for a sore, stressed out mood - if any of you have satellite or DishNetwork or the like. Check out So Graham Norton on BBC America. I was crying from laughing so hard - they get away with SO much more there than we can here! :lol: (only for those who can appreciate semi-crude/colorful humor)

Luff n' stuff,

Terri

I think the valentines challenge sounds great cause you are a goddess...pumpkin..you are our leader along with amarentha.
And maybe the theme is working on loving ourselves. And maybe once a day or more times a day we can post what made us feel good about ourselves each day. Cause sometimes we are so harsh on ourselves and we never really take time to recognize our strenghts..this way its a time we can pat ourselves on our back. well this might sounds hokey...but its cute

Ok back to work...i hope i can stay up...i dont know why so exhausted!
Sheryl

Hi Sweeties!

Don't hate me 'cause I don't have to go back to work before January 6th! How decadent is that? Now I have to do soemthing worthwhile so I won't feel like I've squandered this gift. Oh the pressure....!

Just have time to check in quickly right now--will get back into the routine tomorrow.

Hey, I wanted to ask----is anyone else having problems with their journals? I can only get to mine from the "member journal" page because all the journal buttons have disappeared for me--I'm taking about the ones by everyones names. I find this particularly heartbreaking because Amarantha is journaling again and I want to read!!!!

Hi All!!!
 

Having a very good day.... it's so nice when things are going your way, isn't it? Thanks to everyone for the awesome support on my loss! I really appreciate the enthusiastic support!

I am very motivated to get down below the 200's. It's been awhile since I've been there! ;) It's so sweet when my older DD says to me "You're doing so good Mommy! You're getting skinny!" Well, yes, thinner than I was, but Skinny is probably pushing the definition of skinny abit far! :lol:

I mentioned in a previous post that I will be starting a new job. At first I was upset, but now that it's sunk in, it's looking better and better: 1) My new boss doesn't think I'll need to travel as much as I thought I would. 2) My current boss is suddenly Mr Sweet, which is a very nice change of pace. 3) the person taking on my work (who told me to my face that he is going to "straighten out all the problems" on my projects - gosh, thank goodness you're taking over; I had no idea that delivering 5 releases in 5 months was evidence that I was doing a bad job) ... well, he is just beginning to realize how much he DOESN'T know about my work... Ha! Revenge is sweet! :devil: Oh, I know I'm being nasty but he deserves it after insulting me right to my face (and then acting as if he was doing me a favor! Charming!)

So maybe this will be a positive thing for me! I'll do the best I can with it, and if it's not my cup of tea (or coffee) then I will do something about it.

Well I had better get back to work so I get home to see my wonderful DF. (Dear Family)

Hope all of you are doing very well! Hang in there and keep positive! :flow1:

8 Days to Go! We can do this!

Last post du'jour... almost time to go - to the bank, donate blood, then off to WallyMart to finish Christmas shopping! :cb:

Eydie - ihateyouihateyouihateyouihateyou :lol: Kidding, of course... One of these days I'm going to get that marathon vacation time! I'm just happy that next year I don't have to work on my birthday - it finally falls on a Saturday!!!! (January 4th for those of you wanting to send candy) ;)

Autumn - I'm so glad things are looking up for you job-wise and in every way-wise. Funny how one little kink in the chain can make everything feel discombobulated (oooh, did I spell that right??).

I myself am looking forward to a fresh, clean new year!

Scooby - I think the theme of loving yourself is AWSOME! We'll let the infectiousness of this idea take hold and by next week we'll all be so anxious to get to our Valentine's goals we'll just breeeeeze through the Christmas munchies! :crossed:
Maybe once the new Valentine's thread is started we could each state one thing we love about ourselves each time we post? It's harder than it sounds!

Ok, hugs to all... off to visit dracula, then the dracula of my checkbook!

Terri