I have just started posting after a very long absence and wanted to pop in and say Hi

I have been back "online" so to speak for almost a month now. I am doing my own thing (1600 cal 30-40 fat gram), 80 oz water and a mile walk a day and have pretty much gotten ahold of things pretty good this time and am in it for life.

About me: I am 49 and dreading you know what, have been married a little over 30 years to the most scrumptious man in the world, have two grown children, one married Kelly, with one child, the love of my life, Thomas and the other is Jack, single and gorgeous. Brother, do I sound like a proud lady or what. Sorry! I am currently a homemaker, because I quit my job last August and decided I needed to get healthy to go back to working full time.

My goals: to be absolutely totally healthy, have lost 100 lbs by end of Sept (my hubby is taking me to Las Vegas for my birthday!) so I can walk all over town, to have lost 220 by Sept of next year and be at goal, so I can go to DisneyWorld with my grandson and his family and get into those rides!

Sorry for yakking it up so much! Hope you ladies have a wonderful day! I am going to go exercise (UGH!) now!

Donna

Sara , you be careful out there with those taxi drivers and listen to Michelle's advice!!! Congratulations on your "crisis" survival. I am proud of you for that too!

Kat saying a prayer for your daughter.

Thin I miss you when you aren't here posting. I should set up a consultation with you because I need to get some new bras! Hope your breakfast was good and fun.


Sandy & Donna Welcome to our corner of 3FC's. However, Donna a word of warning, I am single and on the hunt - too old for your gorgeous son - but am willing to overlook age differences!!!! Actually I am old enough to overlook a lot of things. I hope you both have had a good day and look forward to getting to know you both.

Well, got in that nasty exercise, ate my breakfast and am raring to go this morning. I am so lucky to have a husband that cooks his own food if we are not having the same thing AND cleans it up afterwards! Surprisingly, I am past the smell of sausage and hasbrowns driving me nuts! I did go around and light candles all over the house to get rid of the smell lol! So, maybe subconsciously I am still hooked lol!

LL: If my son knew I was "advertising" him he would probably kill me. He is 29, blond, green-eyed and 6'6/220 lbs of muscle. He has a girlfriend (again) that I thought was going to be the one since they were friends for 9 years, but he is just not ready to settle down yet and I think she is. I have no problem with that though. I don't want him getting divorced because he wasn't ready to marry. He may never be and that is ok too. I think he would like to, but is afraid not so much of commitment as being able to take care of his wife properly. He makes great money so who knows? You can never be totally safe, right?

As I post and get to know you all, I will address you individually. Until then, thanks for your welcome. Everyone remember:

"No one is perfect but God, so give yourself a break!"

Donna

You might be my new best friend, Donna!!!

Sometimes I am amazed he came from the parents he did! lol The thing is that he is a really NICE guy, which in itself is amazing these days. For example, we were up there for Thanksgiving and he took us to Outback for dinner. My sister, her husband, and another couple which are friends of ours came in a few minutes later and sat down with us (his girlfriend, her mom and sister were supposed to join us and got stuck in Chicago so we had a big table). Anyway, he paid for everyone's dinner including drinks! We must have done something right I guess and he even loves his mama! Last Christmas, he and his sister bought me a Thomas Kincade painting!

What is everyone up to today? I am getting ready to clean my upstairs ( divide the condo up so I am not running up and down stairs so much which kills my knees) and then I think we are going to go out for awhile. Anyone having any fun today?

Donna

Hey!! I'm still here! Been really busy the last couple of days and boy, I sure have missed you guys. I had a mini crisis here at home (nothing serious) but it has kept me really busy the last day or so. I tried to post the other night, but my DSL went down and I couldn't.

I had a very nice evening last night & thought I would share. Right after dh got off from work yesterday, we headed out to Chattanooga. (about 25 miles away, much bigger, much more things to do than here in Cleveland) We went to this great Mexican restaurant. I had chicken fajitas. I ate a little more than I usually would, but ate within my points, so no harm done. They were VERY good. Then we went to the mall. Chattanooga's mall is the largest one in the state of Tennessee and just has tons and tons of stores in it. We just browsed through just looking at this and that....nothing in particular. Just strolling along holding hands. Very nice. (we sent the kids off in another direction with some $$$, so they were quite content) We went ring looking, but we never can decide on what we want. He wants to get me something big and flashy, but to me, they are just kinda tacky. I go for things more elegant and simple. Everything he likes looks more like a super bowl ring. We did find one that we both seem to agree on. It was very classy but at the same time had the size on it that he likes. I just kept asking him, "Who is going to wear this? Me or you?" So after the big mall adventure, we decided to go to the movies. They have a big movie plex up on the hill behind the mall that usually has about 8 different movies on. It's not super cheap, like the Dollar movie theatre we have here in Cleveland, but tickets are only $2.50 and movies are slightly older. They were showing several different things that sounded pretty good, but we were ready for something scary, so we chose "The Ring." Very disturbing. Scary and disturbing. NOW, it's time to share my mini success last night. Other than being able to walk around without getting tired, sweating or my back hurting, I had something really major to me make me really happy. The movie theatre that we went to, was only the second time that we have been there. Because after the first time, I swore I'd never go back there again. Here we go:
We went there to watch "SuperStar" several years ago. Now, keep in mind......this is a movie plex with 8 theatres inside, so the seating is small to say the least and it doesn't help that you have two huge drinkholders on each side of you. The last time we went there, I barely could squeeze the sides of my stomach into the seat over the drink holders AND the sides of the chair which rested on either side of my thighs was such a tight fit, I sat there in pain the entire movie. A couple of days after, I still had bruises on each side of my legs. I remember the ride home from the movies that day and I swore I'd never go to that theatre again. SO, as we're standing there in line, I'm getting really nervous........thinking that I don't want to go through the embarrassment and pain again. YES, I know I have lost 70.7 lbs, but I still am overweight, so I was nervous. Imagine my surprise, happiness, and sheer joy, when I sat down in the seat with no problem and NO PAIN! I think I kept grinning like an idiot the whole way through the movie even though it was a horror flick. I was so happy. It's moments like that, that just spur me on!!!

Ok, on to replys:

Lucky: You are a mess girl. You crack me up. Isn't it strange how very much people can be alike and then be so very different at the same time? I see exactly what your saying about being ravaged.....but then again, there are times that I just want to hide when it's time to go to bed. Dh is SO frisky just about all the time. Of course, I guess I can't complain after 15 years of marriage.....that's pretty good I guess. I hated to bust his bubble, but no big n tasty last night.....the ol' TOM is in full force!

Donna: (jackslady) So very nice to meet you! We are so glad to have you here on the board with us. This is an absolutely wonderful site and the people here on this thread have become like my second family. I hope you post and post often, so we will get to know you better. My name is Tina. I'm 33, have been married for almost 16 years and have two boys. Brian is 14, and Trey is 9. I know exactly what you mean about the "going to Disneyland" thing. My goal is to be small enough by summertime to take my kids to 6 Flags and ride all the rides with them!! So good to have you with us!

Sandy: (peekabooangel) So good to meet you as well and are happy to have you with us here on the board!! Just jump in anytime you like. We are a very happy little board here (just like family) and the best thing about us is, we will comiserate with you when you're down and we will celebrate with you too......AND every once in awhile, if you need a little , we can give you that too! And I know what you're saying to about not being able to trust yourself when you go to restaurants. I still have a hard time, but if you want it bad enough, you can do it. Good to have you with us!

Michelle: How have you been my friend? I know you've been on the board lately, but I've just been missing you. Any new recipes lately?

Kat: I will definitely be sending your daughter today on her audition! I hope it goes so well for her and if she's anything like her mother (that fiery spirit) she's a shoe in! I have missed exercise too the last couple of days, but I will report in tonight with at least having done the one mile WATP!

Sara: Just wanted to say how very proud of am of you. I hate the fact that you were called in on a crisis, but am happy that the person had you in her time of crisis. Good for you sweetie. Also, congrats on the taxi driver. It has been so long since someone has flirted with me, I don't even know how I would act. Not that I want anyone to flirt with me....there's no one in the world like my dh, but it's nice to be noticed for a good reason, isn't it?

Thin: I sure do hope you're not AWOL long. I don't do very well when you're not here. I miss you. I know that we all have lives and work and family and things that we must contend with, but try to pop in every now again & check on us. We need you. {{{{big hug}}}}

Duckie: Thanks so much for doing the stats for us. I did send you a PM with my totals. It is a great idea and I hope we all can keep up with this. Seems like you're doing great lately girl....so proud of you!

2cute: I sure have missed you lately. I need some of your wisdom or maybe not wisdom. Just words from you. I know you've got a lot on you lately, and I don't mean to add to your stress. Just want you to know how very much I love you and when I don't see you around here alot, I miss you, that's all. Do what you have to do, feel what you have to feel, but come back here and talk to us. We are your family too. {{{{{{{{{huge warm hug}}}}}}}}}} You are always here for us when we need you, just remember, WE are here for you too.

Mary: Where are you at woman?! I know you're probably busy at the library. Dig through some recipe books and bring us in a good recipe. How have you been?

Baylee: Where are you? Come out, come out and play! Glad you're liking 1st shift. I forgot, what shift were you on before and will you being staying on first? How's WW going?

J-ann: How are you doing girl?
I know we all get busy....me too. But I miss you when you're not around. What have you been up to? Come on in and dish!

Ok, I think I got everybody. It has taken me forever.....

Hey! I thought of a good idea and thought I'd fly it up on the flagpole to see how many of you would salute...... I get tired of eating the same old thing all the time and thought it would be really neat, if the next entire thread, with each post we make, we include one of our favorite low fat recipes. You need to include all the stats, like calories, fat, fiber...etc and even include WW points if you know them....that way, at the end of the thread, we'd all have 30 or so new recipes that we could print off and keep! What do you think?

Alright, this has been the longest post in history, so I am outta here for now! I expect some responses when I come back in here this afternoon and that is an order! (said with the loud voice of an army general, but with an underlying tone of sisterly love)

Have a great day my lovelies and I will pop back in here later!

I just realized that you're from Tennessee too!!!

Now, I have another fellow southerner (Mary included) to help me out when these yankees get rowdy!

Ok, guys....you KNOW I was just kidding. We are all family here. No matter where we live. I was just SO jazzed to see Donna's from Tennessee! Woooo Hoooo!

Once again another friend to turn to....hurray (QueenB) and all the others, you are all so great. I know I never mentioned before, as you don't like to give out to much info at one time, but Im from Maine, anyone else from the Northeast? We have had some frigid weather lately, but today its nice out the temp is up to 24and Sun makes all the difference in the world.

Well Im off to take my son to a birthday overnighter, then shoping with one of my bestest friends in the world. So check in later....
Hugs to all....

Sandy

Hey, Tina, I am from Memphis and have to admit I am a transplanted yankee, so..... I have lived here twice before (husband's Naval career) and moved back 2 years ago for husband's job prospects and to live near my grandson, who is 2 1/2. I know exactly what you mean about seats and I am sooooo glad for you! To be honest it is, movie theaters, sporting events, concert venues etc. My husband and I only live about 45 miles from Tunica and go to shows down there occasionally at the casinos and last year went to a Charlie Pride concert and thank God we were on the end. I was in pain the whole time too. I will be anxious to get to where you are.

By the way, I love the idea of recipes, but I think they should be things we would be willing to EAT if you know what I mean and not have to have a PHD to cook. I have some beauties including a delicious veggie chilli that is out of this world.

We went mall and store walking this afternoon. I guess I am an old codger, but no one sells covers for your appliances anymore. I looked in the mall and at Bed Bath and Beyond and found 1 that was UGLY. Anyone seen them anywhere? I am looking for blue plaid or a blue country theme. I haven't looked at Linens and Things. I have some very old ones and have kept them because I have a 30 year old toaster that still works if you can believe it, but it is in that ugly harvest gold that was popular in the early 70's. Thanks for any imput.

My hubby told me today that he would buy me a whole new wardrobe when I have lost the weight and of course he wants to start with lingerie. Listen sweeties, just 'cause they get old don't mean they have died. Mine is worse than he was at 25! lol

Talk to you all later.
Donna

Welcome to our new chicks you'll love it here.

I am absen t for a few days and come back to a full house.
Tina I'm here You I and Donna need to get together some time.

Donna I am about 3 hours south of Memphis.

Hope to catch all of you at chat latter.

Sandy what part of Maine are you from? I am originally from Rhode Island but am currently transplanted in Pennyslvania! I think we might be going to Maine on vacation this year! Its either Myrtle Beach, Cape Cod or Bar Harbor! I've been to the Cape many times, lived in South Carolina for a year, and been to Maine many times so John is pretty much pushing for Maine since he hasn't been yet!

I do want to say Welcome to you and Donna...you will make some awesome friends for life here...these ladies are the absolute BESTEST in the whole wide world!! We laugh together, cry together, piss and moan together! And we chat on saturday nights too! So keep posting we'd all love to get to know ya!!

Tina...I am with you on the recipe idea...you know me and my recipes! I just love to cook!!

Lucky did Sara ever send you the cabbie???

I really gotta run...we are babysitting a small german shepard pup who is 8 months old for a friend who works for the same company I do...in hopes that John will let us keep her. She is looking for a new home! A really good dog!

So TTFN...I'll try to get in to chat for a few minutes tonight!

Michelle

Hey chicklets...I just tried the chat place, nobody there...wait a minute...I just checked 3fc too but sadly, no one is there! Probably better off, since I should be in bed sleeping...I have to work in a few hours!! What am I doing here?

Michelle...no snub intended...we left here at 6:30...I had to attend a Financial Aid meeting for parents while she was doing her thing...Trying out for a Musical Theater spot means 3 different auditions, actually...singing, dancing and a dramatic monologue. Having a last name from the END of the alphabet means you're gonna be there ALL DAY LONG, HONEY! We got home a little after 7... Like i said, what the heck am I doing online when I should be sleeping??? I just had to say "Hi!"

Hey! Welcome new girls...Donna and Sandy. Glad to have you aboard! This is a fun group...we talk not ONLY about diet and exercise, but also about things like movies, our jobs and families, bras, the Big and Tasty Menu at McDs (or Tina's house!) handsome race car drivers, thongs! We cover just about everything here, it's great!

Sandy...we were in Maine last summer...I LOVED IT!!! Would willingly relocate...well, if the money was right (ie:big lottery winnings!) We stayed in South Harpswell, rented a house right on it's own little cove...thinking about going back again this summer. We went to Bar Harbor, Acadia...it was loverly!

Okay, I'm off to bed...an hour and a half's worth of ZZZZZs ought do it!

See you tomorrow...Love the recipe idea tina, I have a great chili recipe to share...about 2 pts per cup... :

Good Sunday morning to everyone.
It seems like I can't win when it comes to sleeping.
I went to bed last night at 9pm and watched tv in bed for an hour maybe and was asleep by 10pm. Normal time for most folks.
Well.... here I am at 2:30am WIDE AWAKE.

Let me fill you in on my life and then hopefully I can reply to a few of you.
My mom is still hanging on. I don't know how she made it through her last bout but she did. My dad is wanting me to take him to renew his drivers license still.
We sold his car Friday ... but he still wants his license. LOL It is a POWER issue I think. I think it makes him "feel" more alive if he knows he can drive if he wants to. LOL

My kids are all doing great. I remember reading about a newcomer with a 26 year old "single" son. I have a 23 year old single daughter. (sorry Lucky... I know you saw him first ... but as they say ... all is fair in love and war)

My husband is doing fine too. He pulled his back Thursday, but is healing okay. We know a great chiropractor. Last week he told me he has never been happier. A wife is always happy to hear those kinds of comments.

The weather here has been crazy. Record cold - then record warm - back to record cold again. More snow this year than we ever get around here. The almanac said we are to get a record setting snow in late Feb/ early March so you guys better get ready. It has predicted correctly all year so far.

Saturday I cleaned all of my carpets.
They just don't look as good as the last time I did it.
We have soooo many stains. We need to just buy new... but I hate spending that kind of money. I used that Oxy Clean that they advertise ... but it didn't budge a single stain. Grrrrrrr
Then while the carpets were drying I went to the 50 cent movies and saw "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" again. I just drove up and decided to see whatever was showing next. It didn't matter what it was. It was the first day it was playing at the dollar movies and it sold out. It is a cute movie. AND... I did not buy any popcorn. I can't pat myself on the back though. The lines were toooooo longgggggg. Now I will never know if I would have resisted on my own or not. LOL

Good Sunday Morning girls!!!!

2cute....I can't believe you have places that have $1.00 and .50 cent movies? The only places we have are like $7.00 and up, depending if you go to a matinee or a night movie......RRRRRRRRR they always get ya, and to buy popcorn its like 5.00 more. Anyway, I don't go to the movies often, usually we wait for it to come out on tape. Maybe when my butt fits in the seats better we will go again more often, I know the kids would love it, but we are talking to take all 4 of us at 7 a piece is 28 plus popcorn and then you need a drink, and lord forbid anyone share you know....LOL KIDS>>>>...So we are talking a good $40.00 night for movies, not including supper if you go out......So thats why we usually opt for waiting for it to come out on video tape or DVD.

Hope you are all having a nice morning, Im off to take daughter to Sunday School and pick son up from overnight sleepover bday party....Glad it was not me....Five 11 year old boys up all night.

Talk to you all later....
Forever Friends, Sandy

Good morning all
Lucky, enjoyed chatting last night. Missed all the rest of you.