It's "Punkin's coming" Thursday!
 

Hello Ladies,
I am NOT supposed to be on the computer, so much to do. That way I won't have to do anything while my beloved Punkin is here. But I couldn't resist peeking in to say hello.

Found out that I have borderline high blood pressure:?: Not happy about that. One more reason to continue down the path to good health. Thank you each and every one of you for your continued support :cp:
We will get :strong: and lean together :yes:
Maybe Punkin and I will pop on this weekend to say hello to you all!
But for now I must run :wave:
Enjoy the rest of your week, BoBeena

Hey Ladies,
a very hot Thursday, even in Newfoundland may I add, so I put on shorts today. I`m planning on a camping trip this weekend...so may all go well with the rest of you. I am going to get motivated and I am starting that low carb diet on Monday. Exciting life....
pumpkinseed/Bo-beena- have fun in cali!
Cerise- snacking is my worst habbit. hard breaking the cycle. good luck at the gym.
Frogger- congrats on the 7lbs. I am starting the low carb on Monday (hopefully a productive month). Another veggie I thought was high in carbs is potato.
Kaylets- good articLE. FOR the Q my bottem point was last year when I came home from a summer sailing in Nova Scotia I was up to 170lbs and I realized for some 5`4 I had a challenge in front of myself. Right now I am 155lbs and I hope to reach 135lbs.
Eydie- post r so hard to keep up with.
Amarantha- I need to get to the gym too kick some a-- girl!
Arabella- shopping sounds wonderful right about now, I hope you find something that fit.

have a great weekend girls!
Jenn

Have a ball, Punkin and Bo Beena.

Congrats on good eom, wood nymph.

I've been awol a tad because dh whisked me a way for a brief respite. Loverly but too short. Had to get back. But tears are a little less close to the surface. Just came in from nursing home. Mom seemed better today. Yesterday's report/news was all down. Today, who knows?

Hello all!

Anagram- Just had to comment- I too, had that feeling this past weekend- just below the surface...... Sometimes the best thing is to cry if we can find the place and the time.... for me at least, its a release....
Am so glad you and DH were able to get away... you both deserve it!! Especially after being chained to the house and the doctors this past winter.

Still got you here in the group hug, in fact, time for a big SQUEEZE.


-- see everyone in the am!

Yo! Major Whine Time!!!
 

Fly by postie and some more whining!

Bo-Beena (sp?) and Punkin, have a lovely visit; friendship is so invaluable, you never know what friends mean until you have no friends (I have no idea what that sentence meant but shall let it stand)!!!

Wood Nymph: Glad thou hast reverted to thy true thin self ... and, yes, I believe a muumuu (I don't know how to spell it either, but I long to live on a lovely tropical beach and wear one all day and watch the ocean lap over the golden sands and do nothing but talk with beloved Old Dog and play the ukelele and eat whatever I fancy) ... ummm .... might make anyone feel 10 pounds heavier than they are in reality.

Kaylets: Way back there thou quoted something about losing weight for the right reasons and for ourselves alone. I think that is right on ... was rereading it just now. Thanks.

I can't see the QOD from this screen. Will come back in edit and post an answer.

Ok, dokey. I'm editing ...

JENN!!! Have you looked into the South Beach Diet? It is a MUCH healthier alternative to Atkins. There's a lot of info on line, maybe some on 3FC, dunno. Also a book out. This is NOT just another fad diet. It seems in my not humble but also not a physician's opinion, to have real merit.

I do not do low carb myself, especially Atkins, but I am trying to eat more protein and eventually hope to only eat really quality carbs. So I can't give my perspective and shall spare you my opinion. I do know some diabetics who are sold on what Atkins does for their particular health needs.

QOD: I think the straw is all on the desert on the side of a new highway we have here. They've spread it all over the place as a kind of finishment, I assume it's to keep down the dust and let the natural desert come back in a scenic fashion ... or something like that ... anyway it looks nice!

Feeling very down (but plucky, of course). Another dream died today ... that of returning to college to become a registered dietician. I just can't make it happen and work at the same time. I'd even told the publisher, who told me that it sounded like a good idea as I seemed burned out as a journalist (not very nice thing to say, actually quite true, though, I didn't think she'd noticed). So when I saw how much traveling I'd have to do to take the classes that were only offered on a distant campus and how much it would cost, etc., I called her and said I'd like to continue employment in my old capacity ... the editor I was replacing in the newsroom will return tomorrow ... I avoided any mention of the burn-out thing ... so more dreams gone and back to square one ... at least I have the 21-day challenge!!! :)

Anagram: Hang in. You are doing great. Hope you keep on taking little breaks and taking things a day at a time! :wave:

Avanti, all ... will return and edit in a sec.

:blah: :gossip: :write: :callme: :mag: :blah: :gossip: :write::jig:

Fabulous Friday!

Sorry Empress- But I know what you mean, I was looking at courses and prices and my jaw dropped-- was looking at distance classes etc and still the prices are amazing. I know here in Delaware, you only have to pay for books once someone is 60 but at that point I was thinking I'd take the fun courses.

Any chance you'd be intereted in writing about nutrition?? Seems like you have a solid self taught background........

Have more reasons to thank all of you for being here and so supportive. The other thread I mention occaisionally has suddenly become very non supportive. I will give it a few days to see what happens next but sure did remind me of how different
we are here. Thanks all!


*************
Today's thought is:

"Your biggest Competitor if your own view of the future"
--Watt Wackler and Jim Taylor

Any questions all?? I'm out!

So sorry to hear of dream dying, Empress - can we hope it's "dream rearranging"? I'm with Kaylets, I think writing about nutrition would be a satisfying outlet and combine both interests. Writing about something that interests you would be novel after all those "bored" meetings, wouldn't it?

Kaylets, the "tear" thing is unusual for me and I'm sure for you as well. and the way things have been going at your place, I'm not surprised they're there now. I've had it more than once the last eight months but the mom thing on top of the dh thing seems to have brought it to a higher level. The respite helped but they're still closer than I'd like. I do allow me time to cry when I feel I need to (but then the darn things don't want to come - they only like to come unbidden). Just like I allow myself time to feel down and agree with me that things are tough or whatever. I really feel I am and have always been a strong person but sometimes I resent the fact that others (meaning mostly family this time) look to me as always the strong one. It's sort of always been my "role" and now I want to change it. For the most part, my sibs are all pretty strong people (an exception or two may here be noted) so it's not like I need that job.

Anyway, today dh has another problem/situation and I was fortunate enough to get an appt for him with another dr in the practice. So that's where my pool time, etc. will be going today (a time conflict actually). So must make an effort to work out stress some other way today.

Have not been losing but satisfied with maintaining at the moment and, so far at least, can still say I'M HEALTHIER THAN I'VE BEEN IN YEARS.

I hope our Queen of Friday is having the best with her BoBeena!

Yo! Thanks for the support, Kaylets and Anagram. Actually, no, I'm not much interested in writing at all anymore. My biggest problem now is I keep trying to tell my employer how I feel and that's a huge mistake ... I'll feel better next week, though.

Anagram: Sorry you are losing your pool time. Can you meditate or pace while dh is being looked at or do you need to be in the room with him all the time? Pacing is good, although people tend to think one strange! :)

Kaylets: I'm thinking of taking some fun courses as well. I've been amazed at the price of education here ... really need to find a program.

Sorry that "other" thread is not giving you the support you need. You are always so supportive of others, it's hard to see why they wouldn't . Dunno. Think it's the full moon or something. Everyone seems to be acting kind of weird here ... several people have been rude to me today ... people I thought liked me ... I think I shall become a hermit! :(

Avanti, all! Taking nap now!

Empress - may we all feel better next week! Have run into a fair number of strange people this week but no overt rudeness. In fact have been impressed by niceness of workers at nursing home.

I have been trying to do my relaxation techniques, must be out of practice as they don't seem to be working as well as usual. But they help a bit. Well, had to be with him. He doesn't remember as much as he should - I don't mean Alzheimers or anything like that - just maleand not at all attuned to what's important for dr. to know and what's not. I've only been going to appts with him since the Dec. episode and have been amazed at his version of some things. Had to go to hosp for bloodwork as the lab in the dr. office wouldn't be able to get answer promptly since it was Friday afternoon. Bummer all around but I think it will come out ok.

My DIL is a pacer - never sits down. Of course she's also a runner, biker, etc. Very healthy.

Finally took the new Camry out for a drive. That was relaxing. And as of now, have at least the next two days to unwind. My day had been planned as pool, beauty shop, drive Camry, see "Seabiscuit". Did my own hair today so I'd be ok for dr. office, drove Camry. Think the show we could make of "Seabiscuit" will be full of Friday night dates so will wait for another day. Maybe a nice after dinner walk - it's lite sprinkling and sort of misty -- my kind of walking evening.

And I'm hungry so I'd better get to cooking (or assembling as it sometimes is).

Hi,
I am now back, slightly more sane and hopefully never having to take the bar exam ever again. I have not steped on the scale in a couple o weeks, and I do not plan on it till Monday to give myself a little ramp up. Plus I am atempting to get back on track. I have been eating very poorly, not writing anything down and generally treating myself poorly. Must motivate and get on track. I justifyed yesterday as a slug day of recovery and today, well I have no real excuse.

The test was about as awful as I expected. Very long, very difficult and I do not get the results till October, which seems very far away. O well.

Realistically, I am not going to get down to 140 by labor day. But darn it, I will try. I ahve the next week off of work. I also have $40 to last till the 20th of August (paid the bills and the mortgage already), so this is going to be an interesting experiment. I also cannot use my credit cards. I am working so hard at getting oput of debt I will not backslide. I am two years and five months from getting the cards paid off. I may sell some books or disks to tide myself over.

At any rate, now I can go through and find out how everyone is doing. Gosh I missed a lot.

Yikes! :yikes: Zadie, you can't live on $40 for 20 days. Or I couldn't ... but I really admire you for paying off your cards AND especially for taking the bar exam!!! Wow! What an accomplishment. I'll bet you did wonderfully!!! Kudos!!!!! :bravo:

Here's to dreams ... sometimes they come true! :)

Yo! Two in a row!!! I need to be online for awhile. Still very blah.

Have one more day to go on my 21-dayer, have an interesting idea for the second block. This has been the biggest diet tool in recent weeks and I thank Arabella, er, Wood Nymph, whom I credit with bringing the 21-day to 3FC. I've seen it on a lot of boards since, but first was introduced to it by WN ... never could do it before, but having a separate thread for it really made it possible for some reason.

Anagram: Hope dh's situation improves! BTW, I don't think there's any law that puts a time limit on rest and recovery! You deserve as many days as it takes! :)

Later, gators!

Hello all!

It's storming here in Delaware or very muggy in between storms. Makes some old injuries really stiff and painful. So I went to bed early and have been moving very slowly this morning.
Another reason to live healthier-- I find the stronger I am, the stiffness and swelling are less painful.
Another big reminder for me that like anything else in life, there will some sort of problem along the way. DH and I are going out but may cut the list short depending on both the weather and how I feel.
*****************
Today's thought is:

"For fast-acting relief
try s l o w i n g d o w n."
-- Lily Tomlin
*****************

Congrats Zadie on the exam-- good for you for trying and going thru with it!
As for selling things, one thing I've noticed for sure, is that when you really do need the cash, its amazing how many things you "really can do without".
Again, another lesson in perception.

Empress- you have me curious-- you always have such novel ideas!

I promise to check in later!

Hi girls,

Been fighting what I believe is a gastro virus all week (probably what kicked off the IBS attack last weekend), working 12 hour days, trying to get everything done for DD to leave tomorrow morning for my sister's....and I'm now on vacation until August 18th! I had many moments this week when I didn't know if I'd ever get to this point, but I did!

Really bad news - the wife of our Shipper at work was in a horrible accident Thursday night. She was stopped in a construction zone on the highway, and hit from behind by a transport truck that was going too fast to stop in time. Her car burst into flames. She is in the burn unit with 3rd degree burns to 80% of her body. Any prayers, good vibes, strength you can send her way would be appreciated. She's only 32, and they've been married just 11 months.

Since I've got two entire weeks to myself, I'm going into combat mode. Concentrating on food, exercise, water, and of course a little pampering! We still have four weeks until Labour Day, and I'm going to have good results to post!

zadie, you must be so relieved to have the exam over with! I'm sure you did great! Good luck with the budget...that's even stricter than mine! Hubby and I each have $50.00 a week to spend as we like without having to account for it, and it doesn't go very far! A few coffees, movie rentals, lunch, etc...and *poof* it's gone. And of course, I usually end up giving DD $20.00 of mine! I hope your $40.00 doesn't include groceries!!

Amarantha, sorry to hear that writing just isn't satisfying anymore. I hope you do find something that you enjoy. Congrats on your 21-day Challenge!

Anagram, I so admire your strength that is always there, tears or not, through everything you have been through in the last year. Surely you are due for some good days soon!

Jenn, how are the plans for your low-carb diet going?

Where is our darling Cerise? I hope not nibbling still, but kicking some butt at the gym with SIL! :strong: Great save for your brother on Elisabeth's B-day! What did he end up doing for her?

Metta, how are you?

:wave: to Eydie, Arabella, Kaylets, frogger, and our dynamic shopping duo Punkin and Bo-Beena!

I'm expecting a big jump in our economy while Punkin and BoBeena are together this week!

Zadie, so glad you have a week off to help unwind. Now no thinking about the test until late September at the earliest. I'm sure you did well though I know (secondhand) how really tough it is.

Wildfire, you'll need that two weeks of rest/pampering/dedication after stomach problems and 12 hour days. Hope you and DD have a nice peaceful day together before her departure. I'm sure you'll miss her despite everything and I'm sure vice versa though she'll probably never admit it.

Kaylets, I'm with you on the stiffness/achiness this a.m. Have not been bothered by a couple of storms lately but today.......I always feel we're so close we could reach across SE PA and touch fingers.

Dh problem seems to be yet another manifestation of a recurring situation. Long story of afternoon in medical facilities and the frustration that goes with all that. News on Mom a bit better than earlier in the week too.

Sometimes being online is a great cure for the blahs, Amarantha. When I just can't get me to do anything else, I find sitting here for a while eventually motivates me to move (hope it works this time). Only kidding there. Today, I feel pretty good. Starting late, not planning much. Breakfasted on the sanity-saving patio, read paper, threw in laundry. It's at the what-next point so naturally, here I am.

Glad the 21 day challenge has been so successful for you too. Stay plucky - I like that word and think it's sort of a characteristic of the group we should work into a challenge at some future date.

Anyone have more exciting weekend plans than mine? Almost everyone, I'll bet. Frogger, I'm sure will be unpacking. Missing you, Ceara! Hope Cerise is avoiding the Cheesecake Factory. I've only been to one and didn't even try the cheesecake - too full and satisfied from meal. Maybe I'll request it for my b.d. this year. And maybe just have cheesecake. Yumm.

Yo! The stiffness and soreness seems to have migrated to Arizona, I've been that way for a week, although it's nothing new. I'm concentrating on stretching a lot, guess that'll help at some point.

Still very blah but determined to have a good weekend.

Wildfire: How awful about the wife of your coworker ... sending vibes ...

Glad you have some time off coming up and feel inspired by your "combat mode" ... me, too! My next 21 days are going to be a war zone between me and the Sludge Factor, winner take all and the winner will be ME!!!

Anagram: Glad the news re your mom is somewhat better ... bet that helps thy mood. Sorry you spent the day in medical facilities ... that's always a bummer ... hope you found something good to eat there ... HOW could you pass on the cheesecake ... you astound and inspire me! That's great! :cp:

Kaylets: I am really out of ideas but hoping some'll come to me!!! :s: I'm not seeing the QOD, so dost thou mind if I usurp your position for one day and post one, thusly ...

WHAT COLOR IS YOUR AURA?

Now that's one I never thought of. Offhand, my first thought is that it's yellow. If I can define it more, I shall do that later. Maybe yellow with a touch of pink here and there. And a green highlight or two. Or maybe Cerise is right and it's lavender.

Sorry the aches and soreness migrated. I always thought AZ was a good place to avoid those things. All right, I was only there once and maybe it was on some good days. So what do I know?

Hmmm. I forgot to answer my own question ... my aura is sky blue, I think, shot through with all the colors of the rainbow.

I can't find Cerise's post about a lavender aura, though?

You were likely in AZ on a good day, Anagram? :) We have lots of aches and pains here, mostly in the wintertime! :s:

Avanti!

Hi all!!

DH and I went out "just for awhile" and I found the more I moved the better I felt. Weather stayed MUGGY but the rain seemed to hold off. We wound up yardsaling till after 2 pm but did get a fabulous deal on a sliding screen door for our french door ( $10.00!!!) and DH found a Craftsman yard vacuum/ mulcher for cheap too that we already brought to the fixit man. We went south into Delaware and Maryland so we saw had a beautiful ride. Stopped for lunch and did the Salad bar only so, we both got some activity in, stayed on program and had some fun too. BUT ITS SO MUGGY!!!!!!!!

Thanks for the good wishes --they must have worked!

I am going to chug some water to catch up and throw some laundry in.

Cerise's reference actually wasn't to an aura but to a whiff of lavender she got on her walks which somehow made her think of me. So I was wondering if my aura might be lavender. But I'm still thinking yellow.

Love sky blue - blue and yellow are my favorite colors and I'd be hard pressed to pick one over the other but yellow came to mind for aura. Forsythia yellow.

Glad you managed a good day so far, Kaylets. I have too but it's a lazy one. Even had a nap. Felt I needed a lazy day and am much more relaxed than I've been. Tea's brewing now to wake me up. Have done some yard work, wrapped gifts for the younger princess' birthday, some paperwork. Just loving being lazy. Not even able to think of all I could be doing.

I was in AZ in the winter and aches and pains were gone in Tucson area. Not quite as much so in Scottsdale but sure better than in PA. I really find my worst times here are in the muggy summertime weather. Glad I hit AZ on good days - it was a great trip.

Yo!
 

Hello Loves!!!

Bo-Beena and I are having a GREAT time :cb:... a little bummed that I have to drive home tomorrow though. :dz: I'm sure the kittles both miss me and hope I just moved and left them the house!

Bo says "HI!!!!" :wave: and I think she and her husband have plans to try to hide my car keys in the morning (s'okay, I'd do the same if they were up at my house!).

Miss you all oodles, will fill ya in on the details of the $435 :eek: shopping trip later!

Punkin' (a Californian till tomorrow!)

Glad you are having a great time, Punkin and Bo-Beena ... and by the sound of the $435 shopping trip, it must have been great!

Avanti, all! I'm going to bed early, having completed my Block One of the 21-day challenge (as I'm not hungry or remotely interested in food right now and have 300 calories left, I'm unlikely to break the streak before morning). I actually never thought I could do this. Starting a new one tomorrow!

Scrumptious Sunday!
 

Hello all!

Inside windows are dripping w/ condensation because its so humid yet outside. Dogs got me up so here I am ....pretending I'm awake. What's that experession? Faking it till you make it???

Today's thought is one of my favorites-- glad I went looking for one, I am glad to see it this morning.

****
Today's thought :

"To keep a lamp burning we have to keep putting oil in it,"
--- Mother Teresa

===========

Today's question is :

"Would you rather wash or dry?"

*******

Thanks Empress!! The aura question was great! I hope mine is all shades of blue yet I have no idea what that signifies. I only know I am drawn to blue before any other color.

So, here we are in August.... Is the Weight Watchers Program changing or not?? I had read a post about 10 days ago that someone had witnessed
"New Program" Books being delivered at their meeting site. I havent seen any advertising on TV...the same post said there was new info for "menopausal" women-- Wonder what that could be-- more calcium ??--

I'm ready!

Think I'll start some wash early today and get the day rolling.

Back to brevity mode!!! :write:

Ahh, thanks Kaylets for a thought from MT! Needed to think of her right now!

Starting my new 21-dayer, details on that thread, won't take up more bytes with it as it's lengthy!! :cb: Very excited about it!!!

Interested in hearing what the new WW will be like! I personally think they should go back to food exchanges! :)

Hmmm, a blue aura, Kaylets... somehow I guessed that!

Hmmm, also, re washing or drying ... guess that depends on what is being washed or dried ... dishes? In that case, it's moot for me as I always do both! :) Or is it a metaphor for life? Or for the messes we get into in life that have to be cleaned up? Would we rather be the one to mop up the mess with a tattered old mop, dripping mess all over the place just to get some of it off the floor and out the door before the old mop falls apart with the sticky goo? Or would we rather be the one to follow after with a clean dry cloth and a spritz of orange cleaning solution to spritz and dry so there's no trace of a messy life left? :chin:

Actually, that's also somewhat moot for me, because I do both jobs in that regard as well.

This bears thinking ont!!!

Later!

Hola, Chiquitas!

The Ramon kindly suggested that we not get gym memberships until we actually have jobs, so no, we're not kicking butt at Gold's yet. We ARE walking everywhere to do everything, though, and it adds up to about 45 min. of brisk walking a day, so I think we'll at least maintain for the present.

I'm trying desperately to eat deliberately and only when I'm hungry. It is helping, believe it or not. At least, the incessant nibbling is mostly over. It also helped that I got off my duff and stopped reading one novel per day. Geez. Back into full-time-nesting-until-I-find-a-job-mode. As in, if I'm not working at a job on the weekdays, I'm working on getting this lil' apartment looking like a home.

Ah, Wildfire, many prayers flitted up while I was reading about your shipper's wife. I feel such sorrow for her and her family. Sometimes the depth and breadth of the suffering I hear about chokes me. There's no answer, no comfort, no easy platitudes to fall back on. All we can do is hurt for each other and help out a bit if we can.

God, Frogger, what a DRAG. When are the in-laws supposed to fix their wagon and mooooove on out? Jiminy Christmas. You must be hopping from one foot to the other, wanting so bad to make your house YOURS. Poor thing. You've got a bad situation. I really hope it clears up soon. That and the commute thingy. Owie.

Anagram and Kaylets, you are bastions of strength to me, and not necessarily because you're "strong" in the sense that you, Anagram, seem to think your relations need. You guys just keep plowing ahead, finding bits of life to be delighted with, finding life to be livable even when all sorts of things in life crash around your ears. You do what you need to do for your families and you treasure yourselves as well. I treasure you. You both actually kind of remind me of my beloved Mom in this respect (getting the hard parts of life done and still loving your life), though I'd be very much surprised to find out that either of you are old enough to have borne me. Whattaya think? I'm 28.

Arabella, man have I felt that "cow in a meadow full of gazelles" thing before. Know what I do? I pick one out and just try to imagine what her life/personality is like based on what she's put together (ensemble, jewelry, scent, husband, table manners, what she laughs at, how she laughs, IF she laughs). And I never, EVER have found a gorgeous woman that I'd trade even one minute of my life with. I'm married to the most wonderful (and best looking - don't think for a minute that I exaggerate, ladies) man on the planet, I have brothers and sisters and parents who adore me, I have a great roar of a laugh that I never quiet down for anyone. Wood Nymph, if that situation comes again, remember why you love being you. And put yourself in the role of "watcher" instead of "watchee". You're watching them, Mama, not they you. I swear it helps me. A-a-a-a-n-d I'm spent. Sermon over.

Empress, all I can say is that you remind me of a really great friend of mine. I believe in you and I ENJOY you. You must be having a great time being you.

OK, ladies, once more you have proven that an hour with you is better than cheesecake. Even The Cheesecake Factory cheesecake. Not that I've been back THERE. Ohhhh, no.

Lovies,
Cerise

Cerise-WAY TO GO LADY!! Moving and shaking! Good job on keeping up the walking!

And now for the me me me post!....

Guess what!!! I am only 1 lb away from my Labor Day Goal! Weighed on Friday (and was so busy at work I couldn't post!) 211 lbs. I had said that I wanted to be at least 210 by Labor Day. (Looks like I'll be 'smaller' by then!)

Got alot done with the house this weekend. Moved stuff around, put stuff away. The movers come on Thursday and haul my inlaws crapola away forver. Thank goodness:dizzy:
They do plan on taking some of the furniture that they said we could have though.:mad: So I'm not real happy with that. BUT, I can get more furniture eventually. The important thing is that I FINALLY get the space in our house to ourselves and stop being the U-Store It place.

Hugs and Love to you all. I know someone out there really needs to hear this...a brighter day will come soon, don't give up.

Type at ya later!

Kaylets, still sweltering? I'm sending you a cool breeze!:wizard: This is going back a few days--did you know that strawberries grow best in straw? Hence the name! About the wash or dry? I'd rather put them in the dishwasher given the choice!

Bo-Beena, I was distressed to hear about you blood pressure. Maybe you were just overstimulated thinking about your visit w/ Punkin?! Take care!:)

Anagram, It's good that you got to get away, even if it was a short one. Here's to more time away!:bubbles: :cheers:

Amarantha, I agree w/ Anagram---think of it as dream rearranging. Who knows what'll happen? I have a feeling you'll conjure up all sorts of miracles for yourself. Let the blessing flow!:D As to my aura, I 'see' swirling blues and greens!

zadiek, It must be such a relief to have it behind you. As to having 40$ left---I guess that's why we have ramen noodles!:lol: Make sure you throw some veggies in with that!

Wildfire, enjoy your time off. How's DD feeling about going away? Tell us about your plans for for your home spa vacation!

Punkin, thanks for checking in with us during your time w/ Bo-Beena. You love us!:D

Cerise, I'm enjoying visualizing you walking everywhere--it sounds wonderful.

Frogger, only 1 pound away. I'm so proud of you! And I'm happy that you're finally getting to claim your castle!

Hello, Arabella, wsw [where are you?], Metta, Dollar, Scooby and everyone else!

G'morning gals! :wave:

Well, DD is gone. She was her normal sour self yesterday morning at the airport....heavy sighs, eye rolls, and attitude. She'd been up most of the night chatting to her friends online. We didn't tell her to go to bed because it was her last night here and all. We were up at 6:30am and at the airport by 8am. So she was tired! I talked to my sister at 6pm yesterday, and they'd been out shopping and walking all over Halifax all day. When I talked to DD she was soooo cranky! She'd better get used to it, as my sister has plans for keeping her in line, part of which is to make her part of their family unit and they do EVERYTHING as a family. There are two small kids, a boy age 3 and a girl age 7, that belong to her BF and he has the kids quite a bit. That's going to be a big change because DD is an only kid. I think having the younger ones around will be good for her. For the next three days, all five of them are staying in ONE hotel room. I feel for her on that, because I know I'd go absolutely insane in a room with two other adults and two small kids. My sister said to consider it her initiation to boot camp. :lol:

I had a few moments last night where I wondered if this was the right thing and wanted to rescue DD and bring her home, but they passed quickly after remembering it was her actions that put her in this situation to begin with. It's just strange not having to know where she is, what she's doing, when she's coming in, etc.

Cerise and frogger, even though I haven't just moved, I'm doing some sorting, rearranging, and nesting myself. I gave up trying to keep everything the way I want it when DD would just throw anything anywhere and I'd forever be fixing things. Now that she's gone for an extended period, I can clean and put things the way I want and know they'll stay that way!

Eydie, how are the workouts going? I've been away from mine since I wasn't feeling well, but I'm getting back at them now. My plans for the next two weeks include visiting the farmers' market that sets up twice a week here in town to buy some fresh produce, lots of bike riding, workouts, healthy eating, a hair appointment, at-home facials, manicures, pedicures, OH! and a bath with salts from the Dead Sea that my sister sent me....it's going to be a "if it feels good, do it" kind of vacation. Along with turning DD's bedroom into a spare room/sewing room, finishing staining and reupholstering my dining set, making drapes for my living room and some funky zebra bedding/curtains/accessories for DD's bedroom at my sister's house. That should all keep me busy!

I'd rather wash. We don't have a dishwasher, so we really do wash and dry. I like the scent of dishsoap, especially the great new scents available...I bought one called fruit orchard yesterday that smells like peaches and apples....and the hot water is soothing to my hands, even if it is sucking the moisture out! (I don't wear gloves...I tend to drop things when I do.)

I see my aura being bright orange. Orange like flames, the setting sun, autumn leaves, and tiger lilies.

Thanks for the prayers and good vibes for our shipper's wife. It's a long weekend here, so I should hear some news tomorrow on her condition. I'm going to find out if I can stop by the hospital (she's in the next city over) to see him and find out how they are doing.

Frogger, congrats on the loss! :cp:

:wave: to all!

Aieeeee! The cybergods have eaten again. I was on this morning and posted long and lustily filled with Monday morning enthusiasm. I come in now to correct a little error and can't find my missive.

No time now to redo. But do want to thank Cerise for her kind words. Will repeat that had I borne her she would have almost been a menopausal surprise. My elder is 40, my baby will be 38 this month. Of course, I too was surprised when Kaylets first mentioned age of her DS - I had assumed she was a stripling too. I like to think my spirit is ageless, it's just this body that's going fast.

More anon (after I finish screaming at the cyberlords).

Hmmm. Anagram, I was on earlier. Don't see anything missing. Those cyberdemons are just plain evil!!! :devil:

Hey girls,

hope you all had a good weekend! I had a rough one;) but it was good for the most part.

Amarantha I`m going to check out that south beach diet i just want my last 15 gone and WW is not doing the trick. I`m going to give atkins a shot and see how it goes. Personally I dont think its so healthy either. Keep on dreaming babe and never let your dreams die.
Anagram- its good to know you are healthier then you have been in years.
Zadie K- keep going for your goal!
wildfire keep concentrating on food water and exercise. i`m starting my low carb diet today just crossing my fingers it will work.
Bo-beena/pumpkin-glade u had fun.
cerise-good job on the walking
frogger congrats looks like you`ll reach your goal!

A big hi and good luck to the rest of you.

Here comes my 28 day challenge! I will do this!

Jenn

Home, home, home.... :bubbles:

I've now set a new land speed record (according to my stepfather anyway) by getting home in 7 hours, 20 minutes instead of the usual 8. My reply was that I don't have a car, I have a plane that flies at very low altitudes... :lol:

I don't know how, but I'm down 1 pound from last week. Not that we oinked out or anything while I was in CA, but I didn't do any journaling or much planning ahead. I pretty much had whatever I wanted but watched the quantity (amazing concept huh?? :dz: ) - with the exception of the 4 pieces of pizza for dinner anyway! :lol: :T Bo introduced me to Dannon's La Creme yogurt - if you haven't tried it you REALLY should! :T It's well worth the 1 extra WW point.

Yes, I spent a small fortune on clothes. Probably one of the best shopping experiences I've ever had. I only put back one pair of capris I loved and that was because they were *too big* (nice experience for a change). They had my size at another store so I ended up driving to get them :cb:. Bo-Beena was my "runner" while I tried things on and I ended up with, minus underthings and shoes, a wardrobe of clothes that fit. They're all a bit snug now, totally wearable, but snug, so I'll get a lot of wear before I shrink out of them. Besides, they're so well made that I wouldn't think twice about having them altered someday when the time comes.
I have to say (and I didn't tell Beena this at the time) that when she told her mom that I had to buy the smallest size the store sold she made me feel really, really good - like I'd really accomplished something huge. Thank you Bo-Beena! :dance:

Having clothes that fit also means people now notice my weight loss. My stepfather, bless him, tells me I don't look any different to him now than when I was 6 years old. Today I came in wearing one of my new outfits and just now, before lunch, he came in the office and said "you know I would never say anything about your weight, but you look really good" and wanted to know how much I've lost (only if I wanted to tell him he said) :lol:

So anyway yes, the economy probably did show a blip on the radar between the clothes, Partylite, Trader Joes and other miscellaneous stuffs. Bo-Beena also got me an awsome deal on a blood pressure monitor for myself. :yes:

~~~~~~~~~~~~~
On to the posties!

Anagram, I'm so sorry that your mom's not having a good go at it. How are things going so far this week? And DH?
About pacing - I read a study years ago about how people who are toe tappers tend to be fitter people too. Tap away! :cb: Good stress relief in that too I've found.

Jenn, I have this vision of you nice n' cool on that beautiful chunk o' frozen tundra (well, it was frozen on the tv program I'd seen!) - rumored to be one of the 1st places the Vikings visited, with big ol' Newfoundland dogs everywhere rescuing people who are just enjoying a leisurely swim - while the rest of us are pretty much boiling away this summer. I'd LOVE to be able to go out there some day - isn't the Titanic memorial up there? Or is that Greenland?

Amarantha, I'll keep my fingers crossed about you changing your writing decision. I think you'd put out an excellent book - your wit and way of saying things are rare gifts. I'd buy your book in a second (and stand in line for you to sign it). :yes:

Kaylets, I'm sorry you're not getting support from another group - but I'm glad you have us! (and vice versa!) :grouphug:
WW changes huh?? Might make it worth going back for a meeting to get the details!

Zadie, glad that it's over, but you have to wait until October????? :eek: I couldn't stand it! :tired: Even though the deed is done, best of luck to you!

Eydie, of course I love you guys! We talked about the thread often actually, referring to comments we've posted in the past - things that've stuck with us. Bo-Beena and I did a lot of cheerleading last weekend - like a recharging of our weight loss batteries!

Wildfire, I'm sure DD is doing fine. She's probably miserable, but it's both what she needs and temporary. She'll probably end up enjoying herself once she drops the dramatic teenage bit. My thoughts are with your co-worker's wife. How awful.... any news on her condition?

Cerise, :bravo: on the walking! Gotta agree with Ramon, smart guy he is, to wait and I second Amarantha's question about working AT the gym - one way to make you go! I used to registar classes for Jazzercise and it *does* make you show up!

Frogger, 1 pound to go!!!! :dance: AND the in-laws have departed? Excellent week you're having so far! About the furniture, look at it like this, their stuff would've been nice, but it'll be even nicer when you have your OWN stuff eventually. Hand me down furniture is best when it's of the antique inherited kind!

Well, first day back I should get at least *some* work done I guess... :shrug: Thunderstorms in the forecast for tonight - I might get to use some of those Partylite candles I've been hoarding! :lol: :flame:

ToOdLeS!
Terri

WELCOME BACK, PUNKIN!:cb: :cp: :flow1: :grouphug: :goodvibes :wizard: :encore:

I'm a woman on a mission! Last week, I went for the old yearly exam and found out that I weigh 5 pounds more than I thought. Dang! :o So the truth is I weigh 151 pounds and not 146.
I had a long talk with my nurse practitioner guy [I love him!]. I told him that it was a mystery to me---for all I do I should be a skinny stick-woman by now. When I walk, it's not a stroll--I get all sweaty and stinky. When I do weights I'm really putting everything into it, not just swinging them around. Pilates, yoga, bellydancing, tae bo--I'm really throwing myself into it and I do a variety of stuff and I workout every day.
It must be the food. Even tho I faithfully keep a food journal, maybe I'm lying to myself about the portions? I'm pulling out all the stops, friends. I'm back to weighing and measuring and counting those calories. I REALLY want to get to the bottom of this mystery.
And I'm staying aware of the emotional eating too. The desire has been there, but I haven't acted on it.
I have 6 days behind me now. I'm trying to keep my calories around 1500 per day---and my revelation today has been how quickly they add up, even with all good healthy stuff!!! :o Oh well, it's made me very discriminating as to my food choices.
And I'm back to stopping eating at 7:30 at the lastest. That's helped before.
Yes, I'm rediscovering hunger!:lol: :hun: :lol: Let's just say that breakfast is almost better than sex. Almost, that is!:s:

Hi, guys!! I'm working, can you tell? :s:

Eydie, Wildfire and Scoooby ... a huge thanks for posting on the 21-dayer, it gave me a big boost today.

Jenn: thanks for the kind words ... also IMO you're making a good decision having a go at the SBD. It really seems to be making a difference for people, with my publisher among them. Please share your experiences if you decide to go that route.

PUNKIN!!! Hooray, thou be back and it's not even Friday oh :queen: ... :bravo: on the one pound down!!!! :cb: Your stepfather sounds like a sweetheart, BTW!!!! Thanks for your kind words on the writing thing as well ... actually, I have written 1.5 novels, none of them published. Nowadays self-publishing be the mode, so I'd almost do that with the one that's finished, except for one problem, I wrote it several years ago on an old, strange word processor/computer hybrid that used 3" disks (the salesman told me that was the wave of the future) and I printed out two copies and entered it in a contest ... which I did not win, but that's ok, I'm used to rejection, but they never sent the manuscript back ... anyhow, I digress, I saved the disks but eventually the computer thing died and of course, the disks were totally useless as no computer could read them ... eventually I moved, got burned out with writing and disgusted with a world that did not recognize my obvious genius and pitched the remaining copy of the manuscript ... every now and again I think I'll rewrite the thing and publish it online or something, but it's too much trouble!

So, you see, I really need to go into real estate! :cb:

Re weighing and measuring ... Whilst working today, I happened on the Dr. Phil show, which was about people who are obsessed with food. One of them was so afraid of getting fat and of her children getting fat that she divided all the food in the house into baggies and limited the amounts everyone could eat.

This sounded so much like what I do that it scared me, but then I realized I don't have kids to foist my madness on, so it's probably ok. Also, this woman was miserable doing this and I find it fun.

Actually, after losing 100 pounds, I don't think it's madness at all, Dr. P not withstanding. I'm not obscurely hovering in an anxious corner scared to death I'll regain the weight ... I won't regain it, but one of the reasons is I KNOW without a shadow of a doubt that if I don't have control of food and exercise, I WILL regain.

Hmmm, I am rambling ... it's all Dr. P's fault. I need to go back to work!!

Avanti!

hello all!

Computer issues thi s am and then playing catch up when I got home.

I just happened to bump into this web address and really think you will enjoy taking a look at what this Wonderful Woman has created. Lately I've been thinking I was overwhelmed yet realize I really have much much more than many.

Please take a look at: http://www.freewebs.com/wonderful_woman/

Cerise- Yes, I guess it could be possible -- You said you're 28??
Lots of women have babies at 21 so, yes, it could 've been.
I am flattered that you that you think I am strong--
I am really just like the rest of you...I do have lots of interests and it really doesnt take much to amuse me. Which considering the budget lately, is a good thing!

Anyway.... need to take my shower and call it a night.

Take care all!!

Hello,
So, I finally weighed myself and I am exactally where I was when I fell of the wagon so to speak, so I am much happy. But now is the time to get serious again. It will be great to have a normal schedule and get back to working becuase I always do better when I have a regular schedule.

Tomorow is national night out for our block. It is the first time our block has done something for it, so I hope it goes well. In addition my parents are going to be in town, but it is so important for us to get together with the neighbors that my sister will just have to entertain them at her house. She lives is ultra suburbia and they have block parties in the park about every three months. For us, not so much and we need to figure out the kid problems (still hanging out and bugging people, but it is not as bad as it was) before they become teenager problems.

The money thing is bumming me out, but if I can hang on without backsliding too much for just a couple of more weeks then I am going to be just fine.

It sounds like people are really doing well with their goals. No way I am going to meet mine, but still I am trying. I think I can, I think I can, I think I can....

Taregetting Tuesday!
 

Hello all!

Very thoughtful this morning. Got a call last night from a friend who had taken the wrong medicine and had waited nearly an hour to see " what would happen". DH woke me up to take the call-- friend needed a ride to the hospital which isnt far at all but I was afraid was still TOO far. Rather than waste time arguing about the ambulance, I got dressed and took her to the hospital. Another friend stayed with her all night as an IV pumped glucose and the staff monitored.
She is home now and as you might imagine, unable to go to work today.

I am really wondering when does "thriftiness" become " dangerous" ?? The medicine bottles had different color tops--
Why do so many of us hate to follow a schedule or a chart ??
Do we think we're saving time? At what cost? If our lives become so distracted that we don't notice we're using the wrong color bottle of medicine ( or our vision has changed ...) Should we then
have one medicine on one shelf and the other on an opposite shelf??
The hospital staff told my friend " You wouldnt believe how often this happens...."
I believe it. We have bottles everywhere. We do not consider the consequences because we consider all medicine " good for us".
Yet we know that illeagal drugs can really hurt us.

--- Some of my thoughts are disjointed -- sorry if I'm rambling--
Why do we think so little of ourselves ?


****
It is said the deeper the foundation the taller the building.
--- BOB PERKS

"What is your favorite room in your house? Why?"
---Table Topics


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Take care all!

:cb: :flow2: As of this morning I am my Labor Day Goal weight!! We'll see by friday though what the true loss for the week is.

Much to do today so I won't stay long. I'm holding down the fort at the office and I don't want to stay late like I did yesterday. It took me 4 hours to get home!!!

Tootles.