New and would like a buddy

[Denise78]

Welcome back, C. Can't wait to hear all about your travels. Sounds like you did great with your eating if your jeans are still fitting you. Definitely is a challenge staying at someone else's house for several days. So sorry to hear about your client. I hope she will be okay. Is this the one with MS??

YH, glad you took it easy over the wkd. I hope your back is on its mend now. It doesn't look like you ate too much. I think you are just missing the exercise to work off what little you did eat.

Sorry to hear your dh is under the weather, T. Hope it's just the residuals from the fire and it will clear up soon. Glad you are going gung-ho on the exercising. Sounds like it's really helping.

I am not feeling well today. Very congested and swollen. I am full of fluids. I skipped my water pill yesterday and I shouldn't have. I am breathing heavy this morning, sure sign I have too much fluids in me. My bp was low last night, 97/56. Tested it again this morning and it's 106/96, which is a little better but that's without a bp pill in me. I'm not going to take my blood pressure meds till I can talk to dr. Don't need it going any lower!

Our cookout was nice yesterday. Quiet but nice. SIL's hubbie ended up not coming so it was just dh, ds1, SIL and myself. She left around 4 pm because stepson called wanting to know if he can leave his broken down vehicle at our other house and then he needed SIL to give him a ride home. Haven't heard from him in over 3 wks (even tho he's been in town the past 3 wkds in a row) but the second he needs something, we get a call. Of course dh said yes. If it were my kid, I'd have had a few other things to say -- namely that if you can't call or stop by once in awhile just to say hi, don't bother to call when you need a favor. I sure hate the way he treats dh.

Yesterday's menu:

B-coffee
L-2 polish dogs, 2 burger patties, 4 baby carrots, 4 cucumber slices, 3 pepper slices w/spinach dip, coleslaw (made w/Splenda)
D-2 burger patties, pork rinds w/spinach dip
S-watermelon, 4 sm pc sf candy

I also had 3 Diet Pepsi's yesterday and I wonder if that's what's causing me to retain so much fluids. I didn't think I ate anything really salty other than maybe the pork rinds & spinach dip, both of which were very low or zero carb. Or maybe the polish dogs? I guess I just cannot skip the water pills anymore even if I am traveling. I pay for it too much the next day. I am off to get my nails done later. Hope that water pill kicks in before then because it's an hour's drive with no restrooms in between.

Ds1 left for the work week this morning. So starts my week of childless days..... I hope I can keep myself busy enough. Dh goes to sleep so early, it does get very lonely with no one to talk to and then I end up snacking too much out of boredom.

Well I hope you ladies have a great day and keep up the great work. Everyone is doing so awesome!!

D

[MI CHICK]

Good morning ladies! Well the dirty clothes are washing & I'm watching an old Joan Crawford movie w/my morning coffee---good start to the day

We drove thru mainly miles of trees & water & huge bolders--reminds me a lot of portions of Colorado. Very beautiful. I did see a moose & that made me very happy as it's one of the few animals that has managed to avoid me over the years. So that was pretty exciting. I'm going to look at my jeans & see if I have anything else that isn't a flat out 16 which I can't get over my thighs

Sounds like it's pretty dangerous for you to miss that water pill D. Have to take it at nite & beat a path to the toilet all nite

Glad your back is better YH! Now to find that balance of gentle exercise & back strain. Harder when you're heavier & older....I'm so out of shape that the slightest over doing makes something pull or stretch the wrong way...my one knee has been bothering me & I haven't done anything extra. So I'm thinking of wrapping it quickly before I do anything here at home. Geez we've really worked ourselves into a corner ya know--can't even do the real exercise that we need

No D the MS client is not the one who had the heart attack. But YH she is the one who smoked for many years & didn't quit until push came to shove...she's on oxygen 24/7 & has been the last few years. Drags herself around & of course wishes now she'd had the brains to quit sooner....I've only had 4 clients who were on oxygen 24/7 & all 4 were smokers. That fact & watching them struggle was an aid to me finally quitting. I know I've done damage that can't be undone but am hoping to at least not end up in that mess.

Ok I am off to change over my load, find my knee wrap & get my WOP dvd going

[Denise78]

I went shopping at Safeway today. Haven't been there in awhile but needed a change from my current grocery store. I spent over an hour in there, reading labels and searching for new low-carb items. I spent $98 for just a few bags of groceries, but I am resolved to the fact that eating low-carb is expensive. At least I did get 6 good steaks so it wasn't all junk. I also bought some ground turkey, thinking I could make some healthy meatballs or tacos. I found some South Beach cookie bars that look similar to Kit Kats for only 2 carbs a bar. And I got a couple of South Beach protein bars for 4 carbs each, which I will use more for a meal than a snack. My best find was La Tortilla extra large multi-grain tortilla shells at only 5 carbs each! The other flavors were higher in carbs but still low enough that you could use them, C. I bought some frozen soy burgers, which are only 1 carb and 90 calories each. Don't know how they will taste but I'll try anything once and it might be a better low-fat choice for me than the hamburger patties dh has been grilling lately. I bought canned chicken breast and also sliced deli chicken breast to make sandwiches on those tortilla wraps. I found these little snack packs of mini dill pickles that are 0 carbs and 0 calories a pack. Oh and some dill pickle relish for 0 carbs and 0 calories, which might perk up those turkey hotdogs a bit. Found my Babybel Lites again but no WW cheese this time. I bought some Kraft fat-free cheese. It's 2 carbs per slice but a lot lower in calories than the Kraft 2%. I got some 0 carb sharp cheddar cheese too. YH, I am so envious of you -- there are so many different kinds of 100 calorie packs out there -- wish I could have them but too high carbs for me. Don't think I didn't check them out tho on the off-chance I could find one that would work for me, but no such luck. Oh well, I was happy with the things I got and hopefully my new purchases will spice up my menus, especially where I don't have any kids to cook for and dh said he'd make his own suppers this week.

D

[MI CHICK]

I just discovered a couple weeks ago that we have a channel called retro & it has all the old reruns. So I have been having fun watching Hogans Heros & Mission Impossible. They even show the old commercials. What a hoot! So I'm watching Mission Imp right now.

D you did a good shopping. Takes lots of time to be able to go slowly & read labels & search for new finds. Not having ds's to cook for should make things much easier.
I won't do the nf cheeses--when you get to that level the food tastes nasty & I can't live with that. Leads me to a big time cheat. I saw the little pickle packs & thought they were cute too. But I just put mine in a little plastic bowl & toss in lunch bag. Love dill relish--have used it for years. And you are so right, they have everything in those 100c packs now--saw one the other day that just cracked me up but I can't think of what it was now....

I did my dh's errands this morning & then stopped at a new store by us called the Vitamin Shoppe. It's another GNC if you know that chain store. Suppose to be a little cheaper. Got a good multi vitmn for me & got the cinnm
for dh. I give him the red rice yeast for his chols. already.
I am on Crestor now so don't bother w/that. I did get myself a fiber whey powder--cost a bloody fortune but if it works it will be worth all $32. This has both the fiber & protein so I won't have to add. More carbs than you want D, & more than I wanted too but after I looked many brands over & ask a number of questions I chose this one.
Choc creme flavor. Will let you know tomorrow how it tasted & how filling it was.
Am going to start really hitting it hard tomorrow. Am hoping this drink will really help me feel full & help me keep my calories way down. I have played it long enough.

Tomorrow is my long day & maybe even longer if Judi decides to use me for more hours before I go to Harold's.
I will have salmon for bkt. Then have a protein bar for lunch. Late afternoon I will mix the protein drink. 4:00 I think. I am taking 2 cans of diet pop, 1 can V8, 1 bottle flavored water. Can keep myself full & satisfied w/fluids. When I get home probably around 8 I will have
a few slices of tky & a cheese stick. They were saying on the health report on the news today that the smell of peppermint makes you feel satisfied & full--recommended that you chew a piece of sf mint gum or take a smell of peppermint extract. I chew quite a bit of gum so no problem to make it always be peppermint.

I did do my WOP today. But only did the 1 mile. That's sad cause I've never, even when I first got the dvd set, done the 1--always did the 2 mile--never worked up to the 3. So I saw that as a bad sign for sure. Could have pushed the 2 mile I guess but I was afraid of bothering that one knee. Was going to walk on the air wlkr for a few mins this evening but dh was in the livingroom & he hates the squeak & always complains. That's how I got out of the habit of using it many times a day--got tired of him complaining & we've greased & oiled every part we can see. Course that is an excuse of a sort I suppose. Could tell him to shut up or go to the other room for 10mins LOL!!

[Teresa3]

Your trip sounds lovely, C, with the beautiful landscape and the nice in-laws. Great idea to just have a few bites of everything--now don't we wish we had that kind of willpower at home! Hope the fiber protein drink helps; sounds like you are really prepared for a great week of lc eating! What is WOP? It's great you're getting back into exercising--tell your dh to fix the squeak or get you a new machine!

D, why is your bp so low? Is it because you're taking meds for it? Maybe you've lost enough weight that it needs to be adjusted downward. It seems strange you'd have water retention and low bp. wonder what that means? Hope you feel better after you take your water pill. Sorry the house is going to be lonely for you now. This is the week you needed all those activities from last week when you were so busy, huh! What's the next sorority project? You did good at the grocery store to get so many lc snacks, so at least you'll have something allowable to choose from when you get a snack attack! Maybe now's the time to get out a good book--didn't you say you used to love to read? And of course, there's always the computer to help wile away the hours!

I had my annual gyn visit today; everything seems fine, except...my dr. knows my dd1 is pregnant again and asked where she was having the baby. When I told her at home w/ a midwife, she freaked because dd1 had a c-section last time. Said that's inviting disaster! She said it's OK to try a vbac, but in a hospital! I am not at all comfortable w/dd trying a home birth. I don't know what's got into her; she had difficult labors w/both kids. Now I am really worried. And she won't listen to me; I'm trying to figure out a way to put this to her without setting her off. Any ideas?

I did fine today on eating; rode bike 15 min. Will try it again after dinner. I am sore from the new exercises I tried yesterday and had a painful night, but am going to try them again tomorrow. And after one week on my new plan I have lost 1/2 " off waist, off abs, and off hips! Yay! Yesterday's menu:

B - egg yolk, sausage, spinach
L - salad w/blueberries, 1 shrimp and 1 carne asada green poblano chile enchiladas (no tortillas), lc choc
D - roast chicken wing and part of thigh, green beans, okra, banana squash
S - string cheese, almonds

How was your day, Y? Take care, everyone! T.

[yellowhair11]

Good going on the 1/2 inch T - now how you manage to measure yourself is perplexing-I would have a time of it. Is lack of health insurance an issue for dd and the midwife thing, maybe its the thing to do these days. Im sure you already expressed your logic to her being she had a C section prior. Your really getting into your new plan and thats terrific.

Your trip sounded really nice C, I love the fact that you got to see a moose. Geez, 4 clients on the oxygen- I don't think id want to be around - I know I have to quit in the not too distant future, I have been smoking more since the diet. I hope the protein drink works out for you. For me to do one lousy mile on a treadmill takes about 40 minutes, afraid knee will buckle on me. I read alot of good results with the walk off pounds tapes. Sometimes i use peppermint in my bath but cant say I dont want to snack still.

What a shopping deal D - ughhh -reading all those labels. In some ways I think those 100 cal. pacs are a curse, just an excuse to eat crap we should not if dieting-I would do better if I stayed away from those and then you want more than 1 pack. I dont look at many of them like a hostess ho ho pac or all the cookies, cakes, etc. ! One I found amusing was the tiny stick pretzels. And the whole thing is a major rip off. I buy pacs of stuff that I never ate anyway like cheese nips Hope you are feeling better and relish the peace and quiet this week. I have low bp too but never thought it was a concern and not sure what it means.

Yesterday I thought Id try something I never made, country style ribs. They looked good in the package but then discovered alot of fat, I was getting mad trying to trim all the fat off without completely butchering the pieces. I baked them at 325 in foil( per internet instructions) for 1.5 hours, added barb. sauce at the end. I thought they were bad, expected fall apart meat and not so, looks like bf and 3 ate theirs as I dont see it in the garbage this am. My salvation was corn on the cob. So much for my country rib cooking, I guess thats something to cook long and slow in a crock with sauerkraut. Im sure they are not good for a diet. Back is better but iffy, new symptom yesterday like someone is stabbing me between shoulder blades, ughhh. So no exercise, a bad month and here I wanted to dump 8 pounds in May which certainly wont happen. Busy at work, 3 people out and no OT. Sit on millions to save pennies, real rocket scientists at that place but im not busting my butt by no means.

Tues.
am-cantelope and red grapes, potion
lunch-salad w 1 babybel and 1 egg
dinner- couple bites of country ribs, 3 cobs of corn
snacks- ice cream, 2 fruities, snack pac.

[MI CHICK]

Just a quick hello before work.

I'll check it out if I like this $32 drink mix! Course the shipping is always an issue...bought 3 used books off amazon yesterday, $15, & then $11 for shipping! Dh is good about getting the ones for under a dollar so shipping still makes it less than new, but only 1 I wanted was 40cents.

I boil the ribs first YH. That takes away the fat & leaves then tender. Then brush w/bbq sauce & put under broiler. The broth from boiling the ribs is good flavor so I put it in fridg to chill, then peel off fat layer & put broth in freezer for stews etc later on. But I know that's more cooking than you do. I find that the lc splenda items are like the 100cal packs--you really have to watch that you don't turn them into a new problem LOL!!

T it's Walk Off the Pounds. Was a very popular exercise series a few years back. Great workout thats not hard on your body. Has a 1mile, 2 mile, 3 mile set. You use lite hand weights thru part of the walk.

T's right D, this is the time to hit the library & get those last 12 books you've been meaning to read!! Will also give your poor feet a chance to be elevated each day. Love to read & it can be a problem to fit in to our daily schedules sometimes. Love the library cause I very seldom ever read a book the 2nd time & it saves me the cost, the tree it's life, & keeps me from trying to find a place to store 'em. Used book stores are my 2nd choice if library doesn't have what I want, which doesn't happen often. Any of you ever read the Janet Evanovitch series w/Stephanie Plum? They are so funny! You have to read them in order & she really builds up the characters well--they are like the real disfunctional folks we all know & have in our families. Haven't read another series where the author uses so much humor. Don't start w/the plum lucky paper back if you try them cause it was just a cheap fast one she threw out to satisfy her editors I think.

Ok it's time to toss my drinks in the cooler.
Later--
corrisann

[Denise78]

Hmmm, wonder if my post will go thru?? We shall see. Think I'll keep it short just in case.

I love country-style ribs, YH. I think it would be better if you trimmed the fat after cooking. I use a dry rub on mine first. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, touch of cayenne pepper and dry mustard. Pat these spices on both sides of ribs. I like to throw a little beer or wine in the pot. Cook in the oven in a covered pot on a low temp like 280 for several hours (that's the trick). Once they are fully cooked, I take them out, brush them with bbq sauce and then toss them back in the oven, uncovered, for another 30 or so minutes on 350. They are fall-off-the-bone delicious!!
Congrats on the 1/2 inch loss, T. Keep it up -- you'll be a skinny-minny soon!!

Glad you got to see your moose, C. I remember you were disappointed not to see one on your travels back East last year. I ate moose once. Many, many yrs ago. It was good but just the thought of it now makes me cringe. Good luck with the protein powder -- yep, it better work at that price, huh??

I made my meatball sub with turkey meatballs and lc tortilla last night and oh it was soooo good!

Yesterday's menu:

B-coffee, drink potion
L-none
D-meatball sub, lettuce
S-3 sm pc sf candy

My scale is up this morning. I don't know if I'm retaining water still or what. Guess I better get strict these next few days or I'm not going to see a loss come Saturday.

Off to Curves this morning and then getting my hair colored (just a root touch-up) this afternoon.


Hope everyone has a happy day! D

[Denise78]

I bought a bathing suit yesterday. Actually, I bought 2, with the thoughts that I'd return the one that didn't fit me. I have not worn a bathing suit in yrs and only will do so now because I want to start swimming in hopes of getting some low-impact exercise in over the summer. Anyway, I bought the biggest size they had, 26W, but it wasn't exactly the color/style I wanted. I saw a pretty one I liked but the largest it came in was 24W. So I got it too, knowing that it probably wouldn't fit me but there was always hope that maybe with a little more diet and exercise, I could get into it.

Just tried them both on and the 24W size actually fits better and looks nicer than the 26W one. Go figure. The last bathing suit I bought was a size 16. I'm really disgusted with myself having to get such huge sizes now. So I will keep the 24W and return the other and hope that by the end of the summer, I won't be looking at any 20's at all.

[yellowhair11]

Did you go to the store to buy the bathing suits or did they come in the mail. Where will you be going swimming this summer, are there swimmable lakes there ? I miss going up north to the cottages in Northern WI and the lakes and leeches, took the boys all the time and my mom. You WILL be out of the 20's by the end of summer im sure, the numbers are going down - be proud instead of disgusted - your actually going to exercise in that bathing suit and that takes courage. Forget about what anyone else thinks. I figured the ribs would not turn out but the internet recipe had great reviews must be the oven. S3 is sick today again - I think he is grinding up oxycontin's and putting it up his nose and goes thru withdrawels, sleeps all day, legs shaking, nausea, I hear grinding or knife like noise in middle of night.. I offered to take him to the public detox place but he got real mad when I said this and said im outta my mind-I hope so. I just pray he snaps out of it and im wrong but a sneaky suspicion. Pls. say a prayer for S3. Well enough of that , but no ones knows except BF im sure and its not something I would tell the family. Its tearing me up inside. Well I guess C must have been real bad as her post did not come thru yet

[Denise78]

I looked at some bathings suits in the Roaman's catalog but of course the one I liked was $90. I don't mind spending that much on a suit normally but I'm hoping to be in a smaller size next year so I hate to spend that much for only one season. I stopped at KMart yesterday and they had $50 suits on sale for $25. Figured I didn't mind spending $25 on a suit I will only be wearing a few months (hopefully). Now I need to find a coverup. The next town over, where ds2 goes to school, has a pool open to the public. It's usually over-run with kids so they specifically open it to adults only from 5 to 6 pm every evening. There's a group of older "round" ladies that go, so I was thinking of joining them since I wouldn't be the only over-size one there. Would be a good way to cool off and get my exercise in too.

I'm so sorry to hear about s3, YH. It's a tough situation. I hope he gets the help but you know what they say, the person has to want it for themselves. At least he knows you'll support him if he wants to go that route. I'll definitely keep him in my thoughts and prayers. I know what you mean about not telling anyone. You love the kid but hate what he's doing to his life and it's not something you want to broadcast to co-workers or even family, especially those that might pass judgement or hold it against you or him. We're here for you, YH, just know that.

I don't read during the day -- too many things to do, I can't sit still that long. I like to read at night but dh goes to bed so early and that's the only place I like to read -- in bed. So I bought a couple of magazines for some quick, light reading and then I can shut the light off when he's ready to sleep. As far as books, I like biographies or autobiographies. Not into fiction at all. I love history books too. I think I've read everything our little library in the next town has to offer and there are no used book stores nearby. I usually buy books from WalMart (which we don't get to often since it's 2 hours away) but I'll tell ya, I have so many practically new books, I don't dare bring anymore into the house. Gotta get rid of these first! Anyone want some free true-to-life murder mystery books???

Had a good workout at Curves today. Had the place to ourselves again so we really blasted that music. We plan to go again on Friday.

Don't know what supper will be. Maybe steak and salad if it's not too cold later to grill outdoors. We had such gorgeous weather all wkd long and then it got rainy and cold by Monday.

I know what you mean about the Splenda things, C. I purposely buy those teeny tiny little sugar-free candy bars that are individually wrapped. The carbs are really low but they do have high calories if you eat too many, so I try not to eat more than 1 or 2 a day and not more than a couple of times a week. They can be very addicting! But if I gave up every high-carb, high-fat, high-calorie item and then added the Splenda items to that list --- yep, I would be drinking water and not much else!!

D

[Denise78]

P.S.

Stopped in the bank today and one of the workers there pulled me aside. She is married to dh's cousin but we aren't close by any means. Anyway, she whispers that I look great and asked how much I lost -- it's really showing, blah, blah, blah. All very nice things. Then she says.... "I'm so glad you're losing weight. I was really starting to worry about you." What??!! How rude is that??? I mean, she does not know me well at all to say something like that to me. Like my being fat really kept her up at night anyway. Some people.

[Teresa3]

Well, I guess she just meant to let you know she cares about you D. It just came out wrong, let's hope! Congrats on going to Curves, and making plans to swim! That sounds like fun, esp. with other gals and no kids in the pool! Is it getting hot there now? And, how great to have the smaller size bathing suit fit you now! It's going to be a great summer!

So I guess your fondness for murder mysteries is what inspired the luau, huh! Good thing you weren't reading Harlequin romances! I don't read too much; enjoy short stories and humor, and Jungian type stuff. Got a couple of books about finding meaning in the second half of your life, living your unlived life, etc. Trying to figure out what to do with myself next, that is, if there's any time left after spending every day attempting to lost weight!

Good for you to use the library, C, it does save the trees and money. I don't know if you have this problem in MI, but in CA our libraries are overrun with homeless who come in and sit all day. I feel sorry for them but it does not make the library a very pleasant place to visit! Plus we have no tax money for them, so they're not well-stocked and we don't have the latest books.
What do you like to read, C?

That is so traumatic what is going on with ds3, Y! It must worry you no end.
I imagine you don't feel like you can tell him to go to rehab or leave, for fear of what would happen. There's no way not to worry about them, is there! On a positive note, you are doing great to maintain your weight while you are unable to exercise! And to keep from overeating under duress! What a bummer to have yet another symptom--have you tried heat?

I decided to try a pair of the Not your daughter's tummy tuck jeans; ordered a pair online. Wanted some light gray ones, but they're on back order so I won't get them until after June 21. Maybe they'll be too big by then!

I went to the gym today, and am planning to go ride the bike. Wish I could go for a walk, but feet are too sore. It's so gorgeous here now; perfect weather. I recently read about a fairly new surgery for plantar fasciitis and neuromas where they go in with a probe and freeze the nerves. They say this has a high success rate, as opposed to regular surgery. I am looking into the possibility of getting this done and have high hopes. Funny thing is, the two best surgeons for it, one is in MI and the other one is in Florida! Maybe this is a good omen! Take care, gals! T.

B - egg yolk, sausage, spinach
L - salad w/marinated mushrooms, broccoli, pine nuts, yellow tomatoes, pastrami, and turkey, berries & melon
D - chicken thigh, mixed vegs
S - string cheese, almonds

[MI CHICK]

Well I'm home & pooped! Judi kept me till 4:15....then I had to go straight to Meijers to do Harold's shopping & then fight rush hour traffic to his place. Didn't leave there till 7:30. Am going back to Judi's tomorrow after I'm done w/my Thurs client. And she wants me to come Fri. Will be nice to have extra $$'s on the pay check but my job is a tiring job. Know I will do much better when I get about 40lbs off. Would like to be 40lbs less come the middle of Sept. Do you all think that's too aggressive of a plan?? That would be about 15 weeks--so about 3lbs a week consistantly. That's what I am shooting for. Want to be packing those loose 16's or tight 14's to go on our fall vacation to WY.
D really all you need to do in the pool is pick a lane & walk laps. Non stop for the whole hour--blabbing & walking--the time will fly & the benefits will be great! If you get up to it you can walk holding one of the water boards in front of you pushing the water away. Not as easy as it sounds. Congrat's on being able to buy the smaller suit!! I missed my last class cause I got busy & looked up & it was too late to go....was sooo mad at myself! Already had my suit on under my clothes & my bag w/towel etc was by the door ready for me to go. Then this last Mon the class was canceled due to the holiday plus we were on our way home from Ca.
Too bad about the library T! You'd expect better out of CA for some reason...we have a very large beautiful library that is quite nicely stocked. See a lot of snoozing seniors but no one that looks like a street person. We had a lot of them at the libraires when I lived in Detroit, but as long as they weren't trying to panhandle the folks in the building I never minded too much. Was always just glad I had a home to return to! Every once in awhile someone would smell pretty bad & you'd have to shift a few isles over...LOL!! Reading is my entertainment so I do read mainly fiction. Who dun-it's are my favorite. Not big on romances, they all sound the same to me. Never tried any true crime D. Guess I should try some the way I like the fiction crimes. Years back I enjoyed historical novels.
Every once in awhile I will read a philosophy/theological book. Love to read thru cookbooks....LOL!!!
I hear you about the comment D---started out so nice! Db discussed my being so large w/my mom when they were up this last Dec & mom slipped & said something about it. While I was furious & hurt at the same time!! Not sure why as I am overweight & I sure couldn't expect them to be sitting around talking about how grand I look.... Course it was good incentive as I would really like to be 199 when we walk across his porch this fall!
Sorry you lost your May momentum Y!! But you are still going much smaller than when they made all their cruel remarks last time.
Sorry about your son! You want so much for them & love them so much....and you can't make them do what they need to do. So difficult! I don't like to discuss ds's flaws w/ anyone really either. Mainly cause I find that everyone wants to talk about all the good happenings re:their kids & act like they don't do stupid stuff. And yet we know they all do. I'd find it helpful to be able to say to a friend, boy you know Adam is blah blah blah & it's driving me crazy. Oh well
Y I also cook my country ribs the slow way in the oven like D & they are so good. But they do have to cook for hours.
Ok today was:
Bkf= coffee w/ 3tbs cream
L(at 2:30...)= sb protein bar & bottle water
D(7:00 while at Harolds) fiber/protein drink small can v8
S= 2 cans diet pepsi 3oz salmon 1tbsp mayo
Not really hungry--just that mental hunger that says it's 9pm I should be eating something...LOL!! Am going to work really hard at getting over this bad habit!
Tomorrow is going to be another crazy day so I think I will eat pretty much the same. It is much easier to pack a protein bar & cold drinks & dry powder to shake together at some point then to pack all different foods. Main thing is that working 2 clients a day means no exercise I'm pretty sure
Have a good nite gals & watch those nite time snacks

[slendercate]

Hi, ya'll,

C, I love to read also. At bedtime instead of snacking! I love mysteries and biographies.

D, wow, they say being overweight is the last bastillion of discrimination, ceretainly, folks seem to feel they can say anything to those of us struggling with weight issues. In DH's cousin's wife's case, she probably just really cares. Congrats on the smaller suit.

T, I have seen those jeans and was tempted to buy a pair. Please let us know how you like them.

YH, my heart goes out to you about S3. I think we worry more about them when they are grown than when they were little. When they were little, we could sort of control what they did, etc. Once they are "of age" they are free to make stupid mistakes, etc.

Today, was pretty good. Desite the tears, this is the last week our son will be here, he is leaving Monday. Even though I feel I have accepted his move intellectually, I find myself shedding a tear at night when I think about his move. Hanging in there, trying not to be derailed with stress eating.

B-protein shake w/ fiber & hood lc milk, lc toast
S- oz cheese, few raw cherries
L- chicken baked w/ veggies, few more raw cherries, tossed green salad
S- lc yogurt
D- dreamfield's pasta made into alfredo shrimp pasta, small necterine, salad.

Will talk to you all later.

[Denise78]

C, I know you can lose 40 lbs by September! Three lbs a week is definitely do-able. I think it's good to have something to strive for. I started low-carb eating in February, 15-1/2 wks ago, and I'm at a 43 lb loss so far. Gotta reach for the stars or we'll never get anywhere!! I think we've got a great support system here so what have you got to lose by trying?? Except 40 lbs!!!

SC, it's hard when they grow up and move away, isn't it?? I hope things go well for your son in Colorado. Maybe you can go visit him soon after he moves, just to give yourself some peace of mind that he's doing okay?? Is his girlfriend from Colorado or do they know anyone there?

Ds2 stopped by for a short visit tonight. He was bored at the ranch. Of course, I was not his first stop -- had to see his friends first -- but at least I got a quick hello, if nothing else! It was so hard to say goodbye. He's only 16 and I hate him living away from home during the week. I guess it doesn't matter how old or young they are, we mothers will always worry and want to take care of our kids.

One of my sorority sisters called me tonight to let me know she is the new pool manager. I'm happy because now even if I have no one to go with, she'll be there and I won't mind going alone.

How is your back doing, YH? Are you feeling any better?? Sorry you couldn't lose your goal for May but you've done awesome so far and we all have stalls to contend with, so you're not alone there. You've only got 21 lbs to go to reach goal -- wow that is amazing!

T, excellent job with all the exercising! Your menus are looking really good too. Sorry you can't do much walking but maybe that surgery will help -- if it gives you the pain relief, might be something for you to do.

Well it's really storming here tonight and I'm thinking I better end this now before we lose power! Have a good night ladies!!

D

[yellowhair11]

We have homeless all over here and yes they are in the library and im near the beach and downtown so I always see them, I feel bad as alot of them are women like our age and then am thankful I have a bed to sleep in instead of groaning about my small place and living conditions. I only read non fiction, enjoy medical books, animal stuff, diet books, travel, tons checked out and just keep renewing as I dont seem to make time.

Walking in water is super exercise like C said - just very boring - when BF lost weight thats what he did. I love the zoomer fins and I also have an aquabelt that you wrap around you and walk in deep water but have not used that lately. Just treading water with the fins is a good workout but I don't know that you want to lug anything to the pool, thats great you have a group of women to go with. When I was tossing clothes last weekend the bathing suits were tough as mine are all pricey, I have alot of those MiracleSuits which make you look thinner but not the most comfortable for water exercise.
I would not like that comment either from dh's cousin....oh brother. Yeah, im sure she's real worried about you

Nice to hear from you SC - maybe if I would try reading in the evening I would not snack so much. Your son will be just fine and Colorado is such a beautiful state.

T - we want a full report on the jeans - I see them all the time on ebay and they sell like hotcakes, do they make diff. styles, slimfit, bootcut, relaxed ? I plan on getting jeans one of these days but too dang hot here. You need to check the new surgery out T and do your research, will your health plan cover you out of state - mine wont- its garbage. I sure hope my next life is better than this one - I always think of those storybook pics sitting in grass petting tigers and other animals and no stress. Great going on the exercise too.

40 lbs by mid Sept. C - it can be done for sure. Thats good to have a goal. If you decide to have the hand surgery it may not be do-able if you can't exercise. You have to keep it up with the food and exercise as much as you can stand, at least you are not sitting on your butt all day like me at work. Now what is your report on the protein drink ? Did it satisfy you ? People talking about you-ughhh. BF and I were on a cruise at a very large table and the dinner always took like 3 hrs. so before dessert I would leave to the ladies room ( needed a smoke terribly after all that food ) , BF must have opened his mouth and the whole table was discussing my smoking when I returned, I was so mad that I switched tables for the rest of the cruise.

I had every intention of going in the pool yesterday but had an argument with s3 so my excuse not to go in. Back feels better today. I hate this no exercise but I have been doing some Callanetics which is not for weight loss but hopefully helping with inches. My melt belt is behaving now and I use that daily while posting here. I wore a pr. of those super control top pantyhose that arrived to work yesterday after I rubbed sea clay on my belly, I thought I may turn blue as the upper leg seam was so darn tight Going to work smelling like sea clay on belly and ben gay on the back.

am-grapefruit,orange, bing cherries
lunch-salad w 1 egg and 1 babybel
dinner- 1 kielbasa and gr. beans
snacks- fruiti, zwiebeck, ice cream, few pretzels

I have jowls now and new wrinkles from the weight loss in the face ! I cant stand it - like they appeared overnite. Wish I could afford a lower face lift.

[MI CHICK]

The drink went pretty well. Used water. Today I'm using skim milk. Or guess for lc I could use water & a couple tbsp cream. Had a cheese stick before I went to bed as I had a headache. Not actually hungry this morning, but of course I'm filling up on coffee LOL I've always found that the less I eat the less hungry I am so it's just that matter of learning the self discipline to eat less to start off!

Jowls & wrinkles to replace our fat just so great to be in your 50's when you finally tackle your weight....hope you do a bit better being younger D!

Thanks for the encouragement re:the 40lbs!! Goal seemed pretty steep when I set it up, but wasn't thinking how you 2 had done it. Good for you!!!

Y & SC your menus yesterday sounded yummy! When eating that tasty why should we ever put the wgt back on! I could learn to read instead of snacking w/the way I love to read. Should start making sure I do that in the evening--I always made sure I snacked LOL!

Ok it's time to get ready for work. Have a great day gal's!
corrisann

[Denise78]

Okay, YH, you smell like sea clay and Ben Gay and now have jowls and new wrinkles. Sounds sooooooo attractive.

Seriously, I have been hearing a lot of compliments on Oil of Olay's regenerist cream to firm up wrinkles. My sister swears by it although I haven't tried it yet myself. I still have too much fat stretching out my skin.

I am trying to eat breakfast again. I don't know if it helps or hinders me but I feel like I was losing faster a month ago and I'm trying to figure out what I'm doing differently now versus then. Kept my carbs to a little over 20 yesterday and my calories were under 1500 but I think that might be the problem --- might need to drop those calories to under 1200 to lose better?? I need to get more water in me too.

Yesterday's menu:

B-egg substitute, spinach, coffee
L-salad w/diced chicken in it
S-mini dill pickles
D-steak, cauliflower, lettuce
S-2 sl chicken breast (0 carbs, 20 cal ea), 1 tortilla (5 carbs), 10 almonds

Maybe the extra exercise with swimming will help but we need good weather in order for me to start. Ever since the pool opened for the season, we've had rainy cold weather.

We don't have homeless ppl around here. We did have some homeless animals once when a neighbor moved and left his 2 kittens and puppy behind. Can you imagine?? Just moved and left them and no one knew till we heard the poor puppy yapping away in the middle of the night and went to investigate. Poor things had been left alone in the empty house for several days with no food/water till they were discovered. Neighbors got together, fed the animals, took them to the vet and sent the bill to the lousy guy who left them behind, and then adopted the kitties and puppy out to others. Wish we could take that approach with homeless ppl too. I always want to lend a helping hand -- as long as they truly need it and it's not for drugs or alcohol, kwim?? I've seen ppl with signs standing on the side of the road when we're traveling. "Will work for food." I've always wanted to go to McD's and get a bunch of food and say, here you go. But you don't know if they really want the food or are just looking for a $$ handout.

I "adopted" an orphan at Christmastime and sent him a box of presents. Was a 14 yr old boy living in a group home, and that really made me feel good, being able to help someone have a happy holiday that might not have otherwise. Seems like I could do more though.

Think I will make a strawberry-rhubarb pie today. I'll use Splenda instead of sugar but it won't be low-carb enough for me to have some. Saw the rhubarb at the store the other day and ds1 loves it, so thought it might be a nice treat for him when he comes home tomorrow night for the wkd. Dh loves it too.

Almost the end of the week and I am sooooo not ready to weigh in on Saturday!!! Need to really tighten my belt the next couple of days!! Scale is going up and down too much this week.

Looks like the sun is trying to come out. Have a good day ladies! D

[MI CHICK]

Another 2 client day so I'm tired again. Tomorrow I just have Judi so that will be nice. Maybe I will actually get some exercise done in the morning before I go.

One thing about such a busy schedule is there isn't much time to eat which works w/my new game plan. After I've worn my jeans for a few hours now they get quite baggy in the thighs & behind so that's good. But they are still tight in the stomach when I put them on at first & when they have relaxed they fit but are not roomy. So whatever changes have been moderate.

Y there are a number of face creams out now a days that really make quite a difference for around $30 bottle. Of course the one I really like was discontinued....I have wondered about the new non surgical face lift that is so popular. Think it's more moderate in price--still can't afford it but it's not totally out of line. Can't think of what it's called...think it's one of those things that was on Oprah at some point.

Maybe you are just in a bit of a stall D. Our bodies always kind of level out for a few weeks after a large drop. But I think we really are suppose to do better in everyway when we eat bkft. I bought a lc cookbook on sale for $3.99 at Borders which has a number of good sounding frittata's in it that I wanted to try. Plus it has some good sounding nut recipes so that we're not just eating the same ole snack.

Love rhubarb apple pie or cobbler!! Always put some rhubarb in the freezer from my moms garden. She brought me a bag of it last week & I took it to the basement & laid it on the cool floor so that it would keep till we got back from Ca. But then I was thinking what on earth will I do with it now?? So let me know how it works with the Splenda. I could make up the filling w/no crust & put a squirt of whipped cream on it for a treat.

Today I had
bkft= lf ham & 2% cheese on lc bread coffee w/ cream
l=sb protein bar sm v8
d=1/2 ck breast sm v8
s=4 diet pepsi's thru out the day
am going to have the fiber protein drink when I get off here as I am a little hungry. Then I'm off to a nice soak in my uncomfortable tub w/my new cookbook.

[Denise78]

With all the running around you're doing for your clients, C, I'd think you got plenty of exercise in these past few days! Your menu looks great. Did the protein drink hold you over tonight?? Mine has some fiber in it too so I don't always add to it, unless I am using it as a meal replacement and not just a snack to keep me full. I hate V8 but it's supposed to be really good for you. All I can taste is celery, which I think is gross.

I tried eating more veggies today but of course, that upped my carb count to around 30, although I did manage to keep the calories under 1000. Hard to balance both without starving!! I'm totally full now so hopefully no snacking tonight.

Today's menu:

B-egg substitute, spinach, 2 veggie sausage links, coffee
L-shrimp & veggie stir fry
S-1 babybel lite
D-turkey meatballs, lc tortilla, eggplant w/sauce & mozzarella

I read in my First magazine that to figure out the number of ounces of water you should be drinking per day, you need to cut your weight in half. That puts me at around 150 oz since I'm close to 300 lbs. I don't drink near that since you cannot count coffee or liquids made with Splenda.

YH, do you read that magazine? They had articles on everything you mentioned recently...the sea clay wraps, nycropene shorts, etc., so thought maybe you had. If you haven't, check it out if you get a chance. They had a good recipe for a homemade clay wrap and some good pointers on slimming the belly fat and cellulite using different home remedies and/or bellyfat-fighting foods. Even talked about how external heat helps fight cellulite, which made me think of your melt belt.

Ds1 called tonight. He'll be home tomorrow night but not sure of the time since they may work overtime. Ds2 will be home Saturday afternoon. I've (almost) made it thru a week with no kids and survived!!

Was supposed to have a meeting this afternoon but it got postponed till next week. Tomorrow my friend & I plan to go to Curves, then I will come home and make that pie since I never did it today. C, I've used Splenda the past couple of times when I made it -- same measurements as sugar -- came out great. Good idea to make it without the crust. Pls share any low-carb recipes you discover in your new cookbook!!

T, hope you had another successful day with your exercising. How is dh feeling -- any better??

YH, how long will you be gone on the wedding trip? Will you check in while you're gone or will we have to wait till you come home for the report? That's coming up quick, isn't it --- June 7th??

Well looks like the weather is finally getting warmer so maybe I will get to hit the pool next week. My pool manager friend called tonight and said that it's not open yet since they had to paint the pool and couldn't do that till today because of the weather. Hope to be swimming next week.

Take care ladies and have a good night! D

[Teresa3]

C, it's great you've gotten real motivated lately! Now you are really going to town--I imagine you are feeling better since you got some relief for your hands? Anyway, you're doing great, and will get down in time for your fall trip--a nice goal to have.

D, my Grandma used to make rhubarb pie from the rhubarb in her own garden--I used to help them pick it. Those really were the good ole days! Your menus look great; I'm sure your weight will drop some more sooner or later. Wow, has it been a week already since the boys went to work? You've done well, D! I'm sure they're going to be happy to have some of Mom's good home cooking this weekend!

Dh is still sick. He said he wants me to take him to the walk-in clinic tomorrow. He has been sick for more than a week now. We're supposed to go to our first grandchild's (step-grandchild for me) high school graduation Sunday. I don't know if he's going to be able to make that. If not, I'll have to go by myself up to the Bay Area, a tough drive and long day for me all by myself, so I hope he feels better by then.

I took the dog to a class today. There was only one other dog, so it wasn't too exciting, but nice to get more personal instruction. They have chairs so I could sit. So at least I am doing something a little challenging. Saw the endo today, and she was very pleased with my ability to change my diet and get my blood sugars down. Also they told me I did lose weight since the last time I saw her a couple of months ago. I didn't want to know how much so I wouldn't get either discouraged or overly optimistic! She told me I could start taking metformin and glucophage if I want to eat more carbs, but I said no for now. She said she doesn't want me to feel deprived but I am doing Ok I told her, esp since I added the berries and more vegs. I cut down on my protein and I think that's why I lost some weight.

Glad your back is doing better, Y! Oh, wrinkles and jowls--I have em, too, and don't like em at all. I may try the laser tightening treatments; they're high, but less than an actual facelift. I'm looking around for a deal. Yah, the tummy tuck jeans come in all kinds of styles. I got em from Nordstrom online, but I bet they're all over the place. I wish I didn't have to wait til late in June to get them, I'm so curious!

Gosh, it's getting late--dh is snoring, the dog's asleep already and I still have to take her out and get ready for bed, so ta-ta for now, and have a beautiful morning tomorrow! T.

[yellowhair11]

I think my face is at a point where a knife is required , I have lots of creams, serums, etc. - have not tried the regenerist. The derm said they could do fillers but its 1500 a syringe and does not last. I wonder about the non surgical stuff because thats not cheap either and may be good if your 40, just seems to me if the skin is hanging it has to be sliced at some point. I would get a lift in a heartbeat if I had the $$$$, when I went to that day spa they had a treatment where you stay there for 9 days with this mask on your face like hannibal lector - claims its works-dont know the costs. Ughhh-thats the bad part of my loss so far - wrinkles and jowls !!! Let me know if you want to go to Costa Rica, etc. T to save $$$ on the face ! Alot of women do that here to save bucks.
I hope your dh feels better T - this is from the smoke smell I gather. Well the dog got attention at school then - thats good - I hope it helps - now what exactly is the problem with your dog. And great that you lost some weight but dont want to know ! Enjoy the graduation if you go. I bet those jeans will be big the end of June unless you ordered a smaller size.
Yes, D, I have a subscription to First magazine and Woman's World-I just love those covers with all the diff. diets ! Im sure it was First that Im doing the sea clay stuff - the cellulite is looking better - dont know about inches and the belly. I think you are right - you were losing better when you had the breakfasts - if we could only pinpoint that thing that is most beneficial ! I hope you can get to the pool soon and its not too cold. I leave on Wed. for WI., ill be gone for a week - dont know if ill check in or not - my one brother is so cheap that he has the slowest dial up you can imagine ( he has money )so ill have to see how bad it is. I think ill do the man. and pedicure up there as I have teeth cleaning Mon. nite and hair Tues. nite - I should start thinking about what im going to take but im very bad and last minute.
I went in the pool yesterday and then the washer broke and clothes are in there all wet - a repair person is suppose to come today - I hope so - I cant bear going to the laundrymat.
Glad today is better for you C, you are right, everything I read says eat a breakfast. I got cookbooks from the library too - I dont know why - good intentions I guess Hope the jeans start baggin in the belly soon !

Thurs.
am-apple and cantelope
lunch-salad w 1 egg and 1 babybel
dinner- lc entree
snacks-popcorn, fruiti

I am terrible with the water too, I guess we should start drinking more, ughhh.

[slendercate]

HI, y'all,

Thanks for the encouraging words. Our son will be ok, ( or not) and my stress eating is not going to help the situation except to make me fatter.
His girlfriend is orginally from our area, her family moved there last December. I guess we will have to visit them as he has said she doesn't plan to move far from her family.

I now must deal with the results of my days off plan last week with the stress eating as at Thursday's weigh in, I added back 6lbs, probably bloat, but still present.
I reverted back to my old way of handling stress, eating the house down with "carbage".

Starting today, back on plan. Didn't mean to be such a negative influence on this very positive thread, but plan to come clean, eat clean, focused on getting rid of the rest of my "fat".

YH, wow, what is the First mag article you talked about about the sea clay for cellulite? I ceretainly have a ton on my thighs, I would be interested in anything that remotely gives improvement.

T, sorry your DH is sick. Hope he gets to feeling better soon. Hmm, laser tightening treatments sound great. Due to money, maybe the Olay regenerist is my first stop.

C, I would be interested in how your protein drink holds your hunger, also.
I always have to add Fiber to make it work for me. What brand do you like?


D, I am with you on the breakfast. Some mornings I force it down.
I am thinking of trying some new shake recipes with fiber that will hopefully hold me for a few hours as I work right through till lunch.

Well, since I was posting at 3am here, I am feeling sleepy again, back to bed for 1.5 hrs. before I have to hit the deck.

Always so nice to "talk" to you all.

Will post my "clean" menu later today.

Hugs,
Slendercate

[Denise78]

SC, I think we all have those days (or weeks!). It's why we're here. If we ate perfectly and never went off plan or gained at all, we wouldn't be in this situation!! So don't stay away if you're off plan. Come back and commiserate with us and hopefully that will get you back on plan sooner. You're not bringing the board down. You're adding a little spice of real life to it.

I love that First magazine. They have tons of dieting and exercise tips, definitely a good read for those trying to lose weight. I usually pick it up at the store but I'm going to get a subscription since it's inexpensive and chock full of ideas and helpful hints. The protein & fiber shakes definitely help hold off the hunger for me. Now if I could just figure out something to stop me from eating out of boredom.

I was losing more consistently when I ate breakfast and drank more water, so I guess I will go back to doing that. Maybe the lack of water is what's causing me to retain it? My body might be holding onto it because I'm not getting enough. My feet were unbelieveably swollen last night. Of course, I was home all day and spent a good amount of time sitting at the computer, so that didn't help. I also didn't have any drink potion and I don't know why, but I should have because I am blocked up the last couple of days and I'm sure that is hurting my weight loss too. I just drank a double dose now, so hopefully that will work its trick soon! Doubtful I'll get breakfast in me after that but that should replace breakfast anyway with all the protein and fiber.

As much as I love my meat, I think you have the right idea, T. I need to cut back on the protein, which is what I tried to do yesterday. Ate more veggies so hopefully that will help. Protein is what has the most calories and fat in my diet. I think the fact that I don't eat breads (except for the occasional low-carb tortilla or pita) hurts me because I'm not getting enough grains. So I have to add that fiber everyday whether I like it or not and just pray that it doesn't affect me right in the middle of a Curves workout!!

I hope dh feels better and you both get to go to the graduation this wkd, T. Sounds like a fun thing to do. I think we will be staying home and enjoying the sunny weather finally. I bought some nice strip steaks to grill with the boys this wkd. Guess maybe I will eat only 1/2 to cut back on the protein.

YH, I am a last-minute packer too but I do the lists up ahead of time so I don't forget anything. I tend to overpack with those "just-in-case" items. Have fun getting the manicure and pedicure!! I love doing that. Hope you get the washer fixed. I hate laundromats too!

C, I hope today is a little slower for you and you can relax more. Sounds like your job is very stressful but at least it keeps you busy and away from the refrigerator!!

My friend and I are off to Curves this morning. Gotta get moving & shaking!! I love when we have the place to ourselves -- you should see me jiggle my fat then!!

Happy Friday!! D

[MI CHICK]

Hey I'm home & am saying hello while having lunch.
Then I'm off to the patio w/a book Will have a couple hours before dh is home.
I think the fiber/protein drink does really take that edge off. I drank it last nite & then took SC's tip & took my new book to the tub. Read for an hour & then went to the bedroom to get into my jammies & then right on to bed. Read another chapter & then turned off the light. Never even went back to that side of the house.

Today:
bkf=2sl lc bread lf ham 2%cheese coffee w/cream
l=sb protein bar v8
d=very lean 4oz steak 2 sl cheese 4 pickles
s=protein/fiber drink
am eating dinner very early & then will have the drink around 6:30 when I feed dh

Never heard of First magz--will have to check it out
I did do 30mns on my airwalker before I headed out to work this morning. Was going to do the 1 mile wop but couldn't get the dvd player to work got so mad cause it took so much for me to get geared up to do it & then the stupid thing wouldn't work....so I just SLAMMED the remote down on the coffee table, & broke it....so now I have to swallow my pride & tell dh what a nut job I was being about it all....hate when I have to admit I'm not perfect

Ok I'm off to the patio

[slendercate]

Hi, y'all,

Thanks for the support, I will not be afraid to post even if I am off plan.

D, you could be behind in your fluid intake, thus the swelling. I find if I slack up on plain ole' water, I tend to bloat, when I start drinking again, the bloat goes.

C, glad my tip worked. If I can just do something to keep my hands busy, I have a better time of staving off the lure of the kitchen.

Here is today's menu:
two poached eggs, slice LC toast, smear butter, very small smear of sf jelly

1/2 sandwich on lc bread, beef, lettuce, tomatoe, cheese slice, pickles, mustard, small nectarine cut up in plain yogurt.

can of vienna sausages(was out of more deli meat), few tiny sour pickles

dinner: planned: son is coming for dinner (last one before he leaves on Sunday): Glad he picked his favorite "comfort" food with items I can resist.

I made fried chicken for them, french fries, gravy, biscuits.
I am eating: chicken braised in the skillet sans "frying", tossed green salad w/ veggies. I am staying away from the biscuits & gravy.

Here's to a day back on plan.

[MI CHICK]

OMG fried chicken biscuits & gravy for a going away dinner
I would be shoveling my plate full SC!! If you can withstand this temptation & stress you will have shown that you can have iron will sometimes LOL!!! At least your ds is going w/someone you know to people that you know. That is a bit better than them just going. I've had friends that happened to....no work no friends just the place they wanted to get settled in. Guess that's youth! They both came out just fine & have jobs & friends & are happy with the bold moves they made--which helped their parents more than they thought it would.

I have so many things coming up over the next weeks that I will have to hold strong thru....others enjoy life happenings w/o making food be the main point & I really want to get that place. Why is it so hard??? Can't believe that I have actually managed to stay off smoking with my weakness of will...

Ok I need to go make some phone calls. Not a big phone talker so I always end up being behind on my calls....

[Denise78]

C, I laughed when I thought of how you had to tell dh you had a hissy-fit and broke the remote. Thinking I don't want to do that to my scale, which is driving me crazy going up and down so much this week. I better take it easy before I pull a "Corrisann" on it.
SC, what a nice going-away dinner for ds. Good for you for making your dinner healthier!! I imagine it's so hard on you, saying goodbye to him, but C is right. He's not going alone -- he's with someone who loves him, so hopefully that helps. We're here for you!

I'm trying to drink more water but I wasn't home today and I'm retaining water badly. Just need to get back on track with that because I do think that's my biggest problem right now. I'm not overeating on other things and I don't know what is stalling me this week. I've lost the past couple of weeks so I should lose this week too, haven't changed anything that I can think of, other than the water intake.

Today's menu:

B-protein shake w/double fiber & greens, coffee
L-salad w/diced chicken in it
D-pork steak, 2 jalapeno peppers, lettuce, lc pita

Ds2 went to a branding at 4 am this morning and got out of work early so he stopped by for another hello this afternoon and then went off with friends. He has to work another branding tomorrow morning so he'll go back to the ranch tonight and be home tomorrow night. Need to talk to him about these little visits -- hope he realizes he is paying the extra gas $$. Last year he didn't have his license so he was stuck at the ranch all week long but this year he took a car out there and has a little more flexibility.

Ds1 got home tonight for the wkd. Another week with long hours so he's exhausted and went to bed after supper. He'll go back to work Mon morning.

Dh plans to plant his garden this wkd. I'm trying to talk him into taking me to the movies tomorrow night. It's an hour away so we don't go often. Haven't been in yrs actually. He wanted to take me for our anniversary but there was nothing good playing. I want to see the movie, Sex In The City. Not really dh's cup of tea, so I imagine I have my work cut out for me, so we shall see.

There was a young gal at Curves when we got there today. Actually a teacher at ds2's school so we chatted quite a bit. She had some kind of fast funky music playing and it was hard to exercise to it. Once she left, we put on a 60's cd and started rocking. Another lady showed up and thought we had it on too loud so she lowered it. Witch. I didn't get as good a workout. I really like to bop around but can't do that unless the music is loud and we're alone I guess.

Figured you might read this post in the middle of the night, YH, so let me be the first to wish you a I hope you have a wonderful day tomorow. Any special plans to celebrate??

Well dh promised to massage my feet and try to get some of this water out so I guess I better head to bed for a little bit. The swelling is something awful tonight.

Have a good night, ladies! D

[yellowhair11]

Breaking that remote C, thats a cardinal sin with men. BF does not even want the remote on my side of the bed he's so obssessed with it. Always thinking about the food, I know, are we going to have to eat like this forever? Even when we get to goal I don't think we can eat much but it would be nice to have some favs. I kept thinking about french toast and pancakes yesterday, it was just awful. Sounds like the drink is helping you C - great.

That fried chicken sounded so good SC ! I have not had that in ages. Sorry about the 6 pounds - it comes back so fast yet so hard to lose. But your back on plan and thats all that matters. Be happy that your son met a nice gal and she has family in Colorado. He will be fine. Ill look for the sea clay recipe.

Thanks for the BD wish D - I did not think of it till I read your post ! I really dont celebrate my BD so will see if the boys remember, BF's mom sent me a gift and rec'd a card from one brother. Ill see if BF remembers, if not I can yell at him tommorrow. I am 56 today and I hate it So you really think if we drank more water it would help D ? I drink so much black coffee - doesn't that count ? I wish I liked water, I do the hot lemon in the am and use water in the potion. S3 took some gal to the Sex in the City movie Thur. I want to see it too, those gals are alot of laughs.

The washer repair guy showed so that was a miracle in itself, thats a big problem here-no shows. S3 is mad because I told him Im leaving Wed. and he wants to go - he has bled me dry and told him can't afford it. All the boys were invited and they knew that but I said I cant foot the bill - it cost me a fortune last year to fly everyone up, rental cars, food, etc. for my mom's funeral. Gotta go, Happy Sat. !