This thread is for anyone who wants to join in--Lifers, soon-to-be Lifers, those at goal, those struggling to get back to goal--feel free to join us.

I, for one, am glad the craziness of the holiday season is behind me. It seems like each year I'm more behind and put more pressure on myself to get way too much done! I would like to simplify more and need to get my family on board with this.

I have to admit it was a tough year without my dad. He so enjoyed Christmas--baking, decorating, etc. and even though last year he was in the nursing home he was still with us and I could talk with him. It's definitely made me think of how I need to appreciate the here and now.

I have made the decision that I will walk more and no matter what the weather, I need to get back into that routine because I will feel better in the long run. My weight is nowhere near where I want to be and it's a point of frustration for me and it's something I can control. It's so easy to bypass the activity.



My DS turned 25 on Sunday and I still find it hard to believe that he's that old, lol. The weather here has turned cold and snowy and with that I've been doing some shoveling, which is great activity. I actually don't mind it because it's peaceful outside. It's been pretty cold as well with our temps only in the low 20's during the day. Winter has arrived full force.

So how's everyone doing?

Sorry about your father's passing- my coworkers father passed two days after Christmas in 08 and this year was very hard for her also

I'm just moving forward- trying to stay ahead of the game during this busy and stressful week (job interviews).

Thanks, Beerab, for your words. Like you, I'm trying to get back into the game in terms of losing weight. I've been challenged this past year with thyroid issues (low, then high, then stopped) and I'm working on getting back into my routines which really slipped up. Good luck with the job interviews.

Happy New Year, Melissa, Thanks for getting the thread started. With all of the parties and the tempting foods, I certainly went overboard (again!). I'm working hard; on my second OP week. I've got to lose what I gained over Christmas and then lose what I already wanted to lose (LOL).

It has been very cold here as I'm sure you've read in the papers and probably heard from your GF down here. It's been difficult because our buildings are just not heated well at all. I have a space heater in my office that runs all day. I feel very bad for farmers because this cold weather is killing their crops. I've lived here for 24 years and it's never been like this. Sure, we've had cold snaps before, but not ones that last for weeks! I'm looking forward to Friday when we again achieve 70 degrees!

I walked a 5K on Saturday and just froze. My hands were numb at the end even though I had gloves on.

Melissa, It's good that you are committing to walking. You'll feel better in the long run. I think I told you that I'm training for the Pittsburgh 1/2 marathon (walking) which is held in May.

Lisa, sorry I haven't been back in a bit. Life has been a little hectic, although that's really no excuse. I'm struggling with my weight and feel frustrated which is not helping matters. I'm trying to stay focused but lately it's been really tough. Our weather is weird--this past week we've had temps in high 30's and some of the snow has melted which is good. I've been trying to get out and walk even though it's not all that warm out. As long as the side walks are clear I've been making an attempt to get outside for some activity. I know that will help my outlook and make me feel more in control.

I didn't know you were training for the half-marathon in Pittsburgh! That's not that far from here. When is the race? I should seriously consider walking in some of the events that they offer here...that would get me moving

Hi, [B]Melissa[B], I was doing well eating-wise and then went to Las Vegas for business. Ate everything in sight! Well, WI was waiting for me when I returned and it was not pretty. I was up 2# which is .4 over my WW goal weight--has not happened in 7 years!!! Needless to say I'm not happy. I don't know why I'm struggling. It's a good thing we have nice weather so that I can be active. Just think what my weight would be then. Ugh!

The marathon is in downtown Pittsburgh (Lawrence Conv. Ctr). on 2 May. I'm really looking forward to it. Pittsburgh is a nice city. We also plan to take a drive to Youngstown, OH to see my MIL.

So, how are you this week?

Lisa I hope you're able to get a handle with the weight gain. I'm struggling big time and am discouraged to say the least. My weight is at an all-time high (155), of which I haven't seen since I joined WW back in Jan '99. It's so discouraging. We're still working with my meds and the tiredness is unbearable. The higher dose was too high (constant hot flashes, heart racing, etc.) so we lowered it just a little and now I'm back to hair falling out, tiredness, etc. I talked to the doctor's office this morning to see if we can try the combination of synthroid/cytomel to see if that will help. I'm truly at my wit's end. Unlike you, the weather here is cold but I do try to get outside and walk as long as it's not icy/snowy. I feel so much better when I get outside for some fresh air.

Life continues to barrel ahead and we're going into our busy time here at work and I want to be at the top of my game. I'm trying to stay focused and optimistic but some days are harder than others.

May is really nice in Pittsburgh. DH and I were down there a couple weeks ago. I love the downtown "strip district"...lots of great shops. There's a wonderful coffee place that roasts their own beans. If you like coffee the JP Hearty is wonderful.