mousecrazy

Patience, patience, patience. Sorry, don't hit me! ONLY 13 lbs? You're kidding, right? That's a lot of weight, and you're not supposed to be worrying about that right now, you know that, too, right? This whole 6 weeks is about healing. Weight loss is a positive by-product. We've all been there, and it is sooo hard, but sooooooooo important to follow these rules, no matter how hard they are, or how boring, or how yucky, or how sick we are of the post-op diet. Soldier on, girl! You've come too far now to blow this part! You can do it! You can!

Happy Saturday! Eileen got a raise! Yea, Eileen!:clap2: :clap2: I know it was a nerve-wracking day, so that chocolate just got burned right up. You know I'm right. Mandy, you'll calm ol' Barley down and teach him better habits. Almost all rescue dogs have some undesirable habits, and begging and marking are just his. I have faith in you, girl. (shhhhh...my tree is still up, too ) do Dave thinks hearts would look good? I may consider it! Let's make next week our clear out the tree week, how about it? Beanie, it sounds like your fill is going very well...you are describing exactly the contrast between knowledge and imagination about portion size that I experienced, and we talked about at lunch the other day. It has taken a long time to get over that...and I still have trouble with it, especially when I really enjoy the food. It is easier when I am at home, than when I am eating out, but it gets easier with passing time. It will be interesting on the cruise, that's for sure! I am planning to explain to my waiter right off the bat, so he or she won't think I don't like the food, and try to "please" me with more! Darcy, oh bummer! I hate, hate, hate computer problems.....what caused the crash, do you know? Not that it matters....the result is the same. I guess that's a good lesson for all of us though. Good luck re-building the data and whatever you had on the computer. Chrispy, good luck on moving day! I am sooooo glad you are getting away from that moron. He's gonna be a jerk to whoever is there, but at least it won't be you! Let us know about your new place! Kat, enjoy the time with you DH...how much snow have ya'll had? We see on the news alarming stories of the cattle being in trouble in NM and CO...is that in your area? My grandfather was a cattle rancher in KS, and I always relate to those situations, having been around it for many years. Anne, sorry about your sick little kid...I wrote a post once with my dog on my lap, and the same thing happened...it drives me crazy! Take good care, and check back in when you can! Cass, waiting to hear about your fill! I sure hope it went okay, and you were happy with the result...or at least not traumatized! :huggie: Send in a report, please! Pat, Patty....(sounds like nursery rhyme!)...where are you guys! Miss you! Today is just a goof around day...DD is going over to my sister's to help her play with the baby (DD's cousin). She is almost 1 year old (next month). DD LOVES that baby! I'm going to visit there for a while, then come back here and wrangle some more clothes out of my closet...that's kind of satisfying, even though it is work! We had family portraits made last night for our church directory, and they were actually good...so we ordered some. We'll get them in 6 weeks. I'll try to scan one of the wallets, so you can see them. Gotta scoot....hugs to all! Cindy

Hope you are feeling so much better now! How are you healing?

Hi, Ashley! Good luck with all of your journey! You have come to a great place for information, and best of all, support! You ask any questions, and someone will try to help you! I had surgery 17 months ago...best decision I ever made! I wanted to be a more active mom to my 9 year old, and I'm 51...practically ancient compared to you! LOL! Good luck...come often for hugs and help! Cindy

Hi, and welcome to LBT! This board has lots of info and support, and I wish you well as you continue to investigate your options. I am extremely pleased with my choice to take my health seriously, and it has been the best decision I have ever made! Happy reading!

After losing 50 pounds, I hit a period where I didn't lose any weight for a couple of months, I think it was. My theory, purely unscientific but it makes sense to me, is that your body needs that time to adjust to it's new self. Your mind needs that time to adjust to your new size. When you are ready to move forward again, you will. Don't be discouraged! The weight loss is not over! I am 17 months out, and losing like crazy now! I just had to get past a certain point of acceptance, I think...I'm now down into numbers I haven't seen in decades, and it's a little strange. Courage!

Again, I agree with Jack in regard to the assessment of Jimmy Carter's presidency. It is interesting that the Bush-haters/Clinton-lovers accuse others of focusing on the unfortunate Oval Office incident with Monica, but that is the incident that is most often discussed, some might say, with glee and a bit of disgust thrown in by some, thankfully. If you look back, the discussion about Clinton's presidency from those who have been willing to look at the negative aspects of his terms of office, have not only centered around this incident, but many other decisions and policies have been brought to the table. As for Carter, he would get one of my votes for Worst President Ever (oh, and I voted for him, too). I do admire his work in Habitat for Humanity, which shows that there is good in most men...but public criticism of sitting presidents is in poor protocol, and unprecedented. I disrespect him for that, especially. I did think his eulogy of Gerald Ford was respectful and was grateful.

Ack!!!!! I forgot to wish Eileen, the trapped :help: and oppressed :faint: worker, a HAPPY FRIDAY!!!!! :biggrin1: Your fan, Cindy

Good morning! Cass, good luck this morning! I just hope and pray that your fills are as easy as mine! My fill doc is wonderful! All the fills are done with flouro (x-ray), and she hits the port the first time (no numbing necessary). It's an odd feeling, but doesn't bother me at all, or make me queazy. She does fills on the slow-as-you-go method, and sneaks up on the sweet spot, which has worked just great for me! I'm a stubborn woman, and completely believe that even though you are in a hurry to lose weight, your mind and your image of yourself will need time to adjust. If you push that, you are setting yourself up for trouble. There's my two cents, as if you need to ask! LOL! Please let us know your experience today! Keeping my fingers crossed for you! Hugs! Mandy, what's the puppy's name? How are you? How are those tiny little jeans? Hey, I can't believe I forgot to tell you (or did I? If I did just whack me...), I actually have two pairs of size 16 jeans that I can wear! I still have 18's that are tight, too...you know how different makers cut their clothes differently, but it's just unbelievable to put on anything that says "16", you know? Now, I'm starting to think that I might wear a Large top someday, instead of an XL, and an XL was a huge accomplishment! That's what I mean, Cass, about getting used to your new size...it's kinda weird and wonderful, all at the same time! Dianne, I am truly happy to hear that you are walking out of the darkness. I knew you would and could, but it is sometimes a longer walk than we want. Like the Good Witch said to Dorothy, "You've had the Power all along..." Of course, you know which Power you have, and it's been there all along... Jules, that bike butt has GOT to be hurting...you're putting some miles on that machine, girl! Glad you get inspiration from us...that's what we're here for! Betty, good luck meeting the new big cheese! I'm sure you will look great, and better than that, your job performance will be more impressive! You've got it all! Congrats on avoiding sweets this week...I have done okay with that, too, but after being sick, that just doesn't sound so good...so I'm probably cheating in that way! LOL! Kat, Anne, Darcy, Pat, Patty, Beanie, and everyone else....have a great Friday! Cindy

Jack, thanks for doing the heavy lifting around here...I have enjoyed reading your point of view. I can relate to much of your political progress, because I supported Clinton, and his first administration also. I felt that "one of us" had been elected. I honestly believe that the disillusionment suffered in the realization of the truth about the Clintons was as shocking as the truth learned about government during Watergate (I'm old enough to remember that as a high school senior). Going through many different leadership changes, and party affiliations, or lack thereof, has taught that there are no "absolutes". Each president will be judged by history, in a long view, and will get good points for some actions, and bad points for others. I also agree with you that professors/media tend toward socialism (but I wonder if they would like it for THEMSELVES, or just US?), and thus do rant on and on against those who oppose that form of economy. I do not believe that social engineering has been or ever will be successful in the big picture. Perhaps actual family engagement, and education can do this? Shoving piles of money around has really only resulted in lots of middlemen(women) getting stinkin' rich, as well as lots of fraud (Katrina). Money cannot cure what is at heart a spiritual illness. I think the eyes of America are on Congress for these next 2 years. I don't care what party it is, or who it is, but that group of men and women need to serve their constituents, and stop playing to survey groups and the media. All of us need to spend time writing or calling our representatives and senators and expressing our points of view to them...I'm sure they don't read these message boards too often.

Sherry, thanks for your offer of resizing a pic for my avatar! I am still looking for one that I really like...I need a haircut! Oh, and haircolor...yeah, that too! I've got your email, so you'll be the first to know! Cindy

Here's a picture of Beanie and I!

Here's a picture of Jules and Beanie!

Good girl, Jules! I used to have a stationary bike, and that was my only complaint: the sore butt! Way to go, though...you are doing great! Mary, great news on NO BARRETT'S!!! Hope you are feeling better, soon, though...this stuff just hangs on and on, doesn't it? Darcy, sorry to hear you are still battling the crud...I am better, but still have congestion/sniffles...it changes from minute to minute! At least the intestinal thing is under control and much better! I hope you are resting and getting better! Beanie, keep us posted on the traveling Rrestriction. I hope this hits right where you aimed it! Eileen...how is it going? I know there's not much time when you are being watched over at work, so thanks for popping in! Today was much better...I took DD to school, then went for a Starbuck's, and back to school for one of those parent org. meetings I never got to go to before. I thought it was fun! Then a couple of errands, a listing on Ebay, some cleaning things...ah, the life! It's a whole new world! Kat, thanks for the card! I was surprised, and grateful! You're one cool lady, that's for sure! Hope everyone's getting better, and one thing for sure...it's closer to Friday! Hugs, Cindy

Definitely, something is wrong. I would guess that you are in a cycle of PB and inflammation that is not being broken. Liquids only is worth a try. Next, I would get unfilled. Constant PBing is not the proper life of a bandster. Maybe starting over would be good for you...take smaller fills when you are ready to start again, and be happy with less restriction. Remember you can't compare your fill level to anyone else's...it's tempting, but you can't do it. This is a very individual process. Good luck!

Dianne, that is one beautiful picture, girl! Beanie, thanks for posting our pics so quickly...I'm such a procrastinator! We had SUCH a good time!

Good morning! This is my FIRST morning of not going to work...wish it was just a little better, but unfortunately, I have come down with some kind of tummy virus. It started yesterday, and I was running a 101 fever. This morning, the fever is down to 99, so I feel better, but still a little tired. What a bummer. I am taking good care of myself, never fear. I've got to go check those pictures out on the picture thread! Everyone has done such a good job of trashing their cookies and candy! Way to go! I would keep the Godiva too...isn't it against the law to throw that stuff away???? Well guys, I'm going back to bed, but wanted to poke my head in, since I didn't at all yesterday. Hugs, Cindy

Cute picture, Eileen! I understand about the faces. Mandy, what a cutie! Barley is cute, but reminds me of beer, and that doesn't go with Oreo. What about "Cookie"? It's easy to say, and goes with the other name pretty well? You are an angel to rescue a dog with such a hard life. He's definitely found heaven on earth with you! Darcy, one day we'll figure a time and meet in the chat room...I don't know your schedule, so fill me in. PM me. We had a great time today at our Texas meeting! We met at 2PM and left after 5!!! Time sped by, and we talked and talked...we took pictures, too, so we'll get those up here ASAP. There were 3 of us...Beanie (lookin' GOOD!) and Jules (already lost 40 lbs with a great smile!), and me (of course) We hope it won't be a whole year before we do this again...and hope some other Texas pals can play next time! I've gotta run now.... See ya tomorrow, and I'll try to post those pictures! Cindy

Thank you Jack and GrannyAces. I agree that work on the treadmill is much more productive than ever entering the fray here, and I always appreciate reason and logic, which both of you presented.

Thanks, green! I like discussing contentious topics, too. Some people even consider "contentious" my middle name! LOL! Thankfully, discussion usually involves more than one point of view, so I throw mine in occasionally, just to invite a broader outlook. You know everytime I poke my head in on one of these threads, I am usually in the minority opinion, so I try to make my point, then get out of the way. Still, I believe that a good discussion needs all the sides represented, so I am willing to do my best to see that this is done. Happy New Year to all of you, too!

Happy New Year, wonderful friends! If anyone is looking for info on the North Texas chapter meeting of the New Jersey Chat group: I will be at the Cracker Barrel on I35 and University (380) at 3 PM. I will wait in the gift area of the restaurant until I see Beanie, who I think I will recognize. I have no idea what JulesTWU looks like...I am planning to wear a black top with jeans, if that will help. I will wait until 3:30...My avatar does not really look like me...I have different glasses and a chin length bob. See ya there! Just watching the Rose Parade...took my DD over to my sister's to help with her baby cousin. Mandy, congrats on your new adoption! Can't wait to see the pics! Eileen, sounds like the chocolate fountain was big fun! Wanna see those pictures, too! Betty, thanks for starting the new thread! Alexandra, we are not all from NJ, but we like hanging out here. And they let us! Darcy, a BIG HUG from me for your best year ever! We'll have to pick a nice time to chat sometime...what do you say? Everyone...have a fantastic day! Cindy

It WILL. Have faith. You have made a decision to improve your health, and it will work. I know you worry, but you can relax a little, okay? Take CARE OF YOURSELF!!!! You have 3 children and that is keeping you pretty busy. You must have had them in mind when you decided to get healthy...I know my DD was a big factor in my decision. I wanted to dance with her! I can now! You're in for a treat...but it takes patience. You can do it! Cindy

I feel like I don't know enough about each situation to really guide you...you have had a few fills, but what size band, and how much fill level do you have? It is so individual, though, that even knowing that won't really give us any answers. It would probably do you more good to sincerely reflect on your habits, because that is usually the culprit. NOT always...sometimes there are other problems, certainly so. What are you eating? Are 80% of your choices good and healthy ones? Are you following some kind of plan...and do you record what you eat so you can see it with your own eyes? After looking over your habits, then it may just be a "pause" in losing. Your body really does need time to adjust to new weight levels. I think it was 4 or 5 months after banding when I experienced a rather long plateau. I was discouraged at the time, but just kept after it, and then the scale begins to move again. As I have gone through several more plateau's since then, I have learned not to get upset and to respect my body's need for them. I hope you are keeping your measurements, because even though the numbers on the scale do not change, your body sure can! Hang in there and don't be discouraged. Weight loss is not steady and smooth. There are pauses and detours, but with your band and your good habits, you will lose your weight. I am still losing steadily, and it has been 17 months for me. Good luck! Cindy

This is a nice turn of events...

Can't we just accept that Iraq has handled it's situation, and it's for the best? There's a WHOLE ENTIRE THREAD devoted to hating President Bush.