mousecrazy

Sherry, I love your description of your mom in her leathers! You know, forgive me if this is off base, but when you mentioned the alcoholism of your father, it made me wonder if perhaps that is in play with your sister? If so, then you must for your own sanity and serenity distance yourself from it...and you can tell your mom the bottom line, whether it is jealousy, greed, envy or whatever it was, without telling her the ugly names. I don't really know enough of the subject matter to know if any of my little advice is on target, but if it is, great. If it isn't, forget I mentioned it. I know there's a lot of stuff that just doesn't have to be repeated in order for your mom to get the idea of the problem. She probably has an idea already anyway. I'm going to bed already...just wanted to write back to you Sherry. Hugs, Cindy

Yes, I relate. Lost my mom and grandma during this last year, and know how difficult this is. You are actually doing better than you think you are. I agree with the advice you have been given to maintain your weight. Don't stress yourself out over it, and then give yourself a reason to feel even worse. You don't need a food list. I don't eat anything different from my family; I just eat less, or maybe I skip part of the meal, like biscuits. Scrambled eggs are great for keeping me full for a long time...but tastes are so personal, so find something you like, and eat moderately. The next thing I suggest is to focus on finding something else to do with your feelings besides eat. Do you read, write, craft? Find a book to donate to a library in your mother-in-laws memory? Create a memory book about her for your children? I'm just throwing out ideas, maybe one of them will spark something for you. I understand how powerful loss is and how much it affects your life. I'm sure I might have lost more weight, but I kept tripping over the emotional eating part of the journey. But blaming and shaming myself would probably only have made it worse, don't you think? So don't do that. Focus on something else, and coast on the eating a little. (((((hugs)))) Cindy

Cool, Susan! Thanks for posting Mandy's photo series all together like that! Mandy, my band-sis! You are looking fantastic, and I'm not just saying that. I mean it! Your trim and fit, and your hair color is great! Thanks for posting that picture, and being such an inspiration...it seems like yesterday we were wondering if we would ever be in the position to inspire others! Well, you certainly are!

A blessed Easter to all! I couldn't get LBT up yesterday, either... We just got home from the Easter festivities...up at 4:50 like Eileen, sunrise service at church (we got through that okay), then over to Dad's for brunch, Easter egg hunt, gifts and all that. Then my niece and nephew-n-law brought the beautiful new baby girl over. Can we all say, aaaaaaaaaaah. Beautiful. DD held her for at least an hour, then got a lesson in breastfeeding, LOL! I figure, might as well know the whole story, not just the cute part. Also, a lesson in diaper changing. LMAO! Many hugs to all of you who are missing family members this Easter. So, now I'm gonna veg out for the rest of the afternoon. Eileen, don't you love Pat's wonderful voice? Hope your Easter went well! Ira, congrats to your DW! Of course, she can come her for cheers and hugs! Donna, I'm still laughing about your poor puppies worms! Just laughing WITH you, Eileen, sweetie! Patty, have a blast with the adults at the Easter gathering. So glad to see you finding your way in your new life. It's kinda exciting in a way, isn't it? Pat, I had many compliments on my beautiful dress, thank you very much! Apparently, I'm not as, well, blessed, as you...so the neckline was very appropriate for church on me! LOL! Betty, wow! I bet your parties are the best for food! Everything sounded great! Rest up today! Is that even possible? Okay, two NSV's to report...first, I successfully gave up ice cream for Lent! That is officially over today, but I think I'm gonna keep going for a while. It's such a food addiction for me. Secondly, I had to buy new bras..smaller in the band size. So, I started in 46C, and bought 40C. I really AM shrinking! I saw my banded niece today, who is about 11 months out, and 70 lbs lighter...she looks great! So, onward we go! Hugs to all...where'd I put those marshmallow chicks? Cindy

Sherry, OMG, I am so sorry for the family troubles you are having. I know I must have some words of wisdom for you, but they are not popping into my head (or fingers!). Focus on your faith, and remember what is a distraction. Maybe they just needed to vent? You know them, and you know you. You'll sort it out, and be fine. I laughed when you wrote about your husband thinking it funny when you talk about us like people who are right there with you - I do the same exact thing. I think he can even tell everyone apart! We are both blessed to have very understanding husbands, it sounds like. Darcy, I got that same chocolate bunny picture! So funny! Glad you posted it, because I thought about it, but I have trouble doing that. Donna, I love your avatar! Enjoy Easter on the beach! Pat, DD would always love Barbie stuff, art stuff, Polly Pockets, computer games, lip gloss...oh yeah, and don't forget the chocolate bunny! Eileen, sorry you're cleaning today, but glad you are not under the thumb of your buggy boss. Sometimes a 3 day weekend really helps. Beanie, hope you have a great Easter, and wonder if you're gonna haunt IKEA again! Love the pic of your cutie-pie boyfriend! Betty - yes, there's always someone to complicate things, and I sure hope that person isn't ME! LOL! Either DH or I is going to pick up DD at my dad's, then we're gonna make little bird nests out of chow mein noodles and butterscotch chips, and put speckled m&m's in them to look like bird eggs. Not very original, but DD will love helping make them, and can probably do most of it! Then DH is making the famous chocolate covered coconut Easter eggs for his dad...yucky coconut. There's a treat I can safely avoid. Ha! Other than that, we are assigned a fruit salad, and deviled eggs. I guess we'll get those made tomorrow evening, after the birthday party DD's going to in the afternoon. I told my kids at school yesterday that I used to have a social life, now it's my DD's! Ch-ch-ch-ch-chaaange...(David Bowie). LOL! Well, sister-girls, like Pat, I feel all sentimental about all of ya...you're super pals, and bandmates, and you bless my life each and every day. Everyone have a blessed Easter. Hugs, Cindy

I figured Bucky would go home pretty soon, so I'm not shocked; just personally wish it would have been Ace or Katharine. Glad I caused you a little humor, Paula....sometimes I'm capable of that! LOL! Stepford wives, anyone? Mikey, great ideas about the current music producers...you oughta pitch that to them! I agree, Janet, that Bucky will do just fine. He's adorable and likable and has really long legs. He sings great in his genre. I'd watch him. Thank goodness for all of us AI freaks!

Bucky - really liked the song choice, and his performance Ace - song was too much for the man Kelly - she was good, I have to reluctantly say that Chris - the song choice confused me, but he could sing the Oscar Mayer weiner commercial and I'd be happy Katharine - I just don't connect with her...she's like a trained seal. Now sing, honey. Elliott - Great choice of son, good job of performance. Taylor - I like his energy, and he made a good decision to change his song. He is entertaining, and full of life; authentic. Paris - She's 16. She's great. Bottom 3 guess: Ace, Katherine and Paris

Hey, Kelly...I'm sorry for the chitty chitty bang bang going on in your life, but I am sooooo excited that the pants fit!!!! Let's get our priorities straight, sister! Okay, just kidding on that part... I appreciate, as ALWAYS, the care and compassion around here. I will update you on the estate mess when I get the attorney's letter about the land...waiting impatiently. Eileen, love the story about the skanky guy at the restaurant...Beanie! You little minx! Pat, I think of you every day, and want you to know you absolutely, without a doubt did the right thing to tell the teacher what was going on. Back when it was easier to know right/wrong, we wouldn't have thought twice about doing that...good for you! Someone has to have Haley's interest at heart, and it is you. You are a bonafide angel to her. Today I'm on duty for "Driving DD". DH and I switched because I needed to vote yesterday. I have been incredibly sleepy lately...don't know if it's adjusting to a high dose of Topamax, the time change, or just your plain ol' stress that's doing it. Anyway, Friday is a holiday for us, so that's a plus! DD is spending the night with my dad Thursday night and dying Easter eggs on Friday, so there's a small break coming my way. Hope everyone's doing well, having a good day, and getting ready for Easter! Hugs, Cindy

I take pills, but cut them in half. If you are not sure about doing that, call your pharmacist.

The little things really are the big things, right? Way to go, Margo! Cindy

Pat wins the "Crazy In-Law" story, at least this week! Gosh dang it, girl! That little kook needs a can of whoop arse opened on her head...where's that girl's mother? Good thing you have witnesses and documentation...you're probably going to need it. I had a great MIL, and it's too bad she does not appreciate how special you are. Me and the girls will come out there and perform some "instruction" if you need us to. LOL! Seriously, sorry you are going through all that manufactured drama. What a shame. Yank those kids away from her if you can. I'm doing great without headaches, but you know, it's always something. Now the situation with gma's estate/trust/whatever the H it is now is heating up, and sis and I are probably going to have to hire an attorney to make sure things are being done all kosher like, unfortunately. Sigh. Betty, I bet that guy with the grass blower was embarrassed! Glad all your stuff is back to working order again...hope it stays that way for a while! Patty, sounds like everything is going well with the approval process. Eileen, you and Beanie had a great time, again! Beanie, when is Scarborough Faire? Hey, girls, gotta run, hugs, Cindy

I'm BAAAAAaaaaaaaack! Sorry so long between visits....I've missed so much! You'll NEVEr believe what movie we watched Friday night! Narnia! Apparently we weren't the only ones...did I count two or three other people who were watching it this weekend? I haven't had a big headache since I went to the dr. last week. Patty, you know I'm jealous of your special Disney shopping trip! Eileen, you look sooooo cute in your bunny suit! Pat, glad you got that fresh fill...hope it helps! Sherry, what a doll! Love the avatar! Betty, hope you got a little ride in this past weekend; it was so nice! We had our Medieval Times thingie Sat. afternoon, church Sunday morning, then I slept for 4 hours Sun. afternoon...WTF? I was glad for the nap, though! Today is a regular day, nothing new. Hope ya'll are all feeling great! Cindy

Patty, keep on truckin'! You're getting there, and it must feel good to check another thing off on the LIST! Sherry, thanks for your excitement! When I started in July, I wore size 26 myself...and slowly but surely, worked my way through the sizes in my closet...so now I'm hanging out in my 20's, and buying a few 18's as needed. It will happen for you, too!!!!!!!! Really not much to report today...just glad it's Friday! Hope everyone is having a good day! Cindy

I guess the consensus is that we are all shocked at Mandisa being voted off the program...but she'll make millions when she puts out her gospel or R&B CD. I'll buy it! I am not a Queen expert, but I remember that not all of their songs sound like "We Will Rock You". I bet everyone can find something to sing...I enjoyed watching the little video clip of everyone jamming out with the band. Wow. What's next?

Kelly, ((((hugs)))) and a prayer for you. You are where God wants you to be. Think about that. Darcy, I hope you managed a solution to the morning coffee problem! I laughed when I read your post, because I would feel the exact same way! Eileen, (((hugs))) to you, too! I notice you are still losing, nice and steady...way to go! So, I have a cool thing to share....I bought some new jeans last night....size 18! Yep, that's right! AND, they fit! I am still wearing my 20s, but they are starting to get loose. This is my first "official" size 18 in 10 years!!!!! I love my band...and all the friends I have met because of it! Love you all, Cindy

Dang! I wrote for a while, then went back to another page to look at a post, and poof! All my stuff disappeared...I knew it would do that, but I hate that anyway! All is well here...sorry for the troubles, Bubbame. Hang tough, girl! Eileen, you too - I'll be glad when you can play with us more! Donna, are you liking your job? Gotta go, Cindy

I missed the first three performers...my opinion is that at this point, all of the performers are very talented...and I enjoy the performances of all of them. Now, it is a popularity contest. I think this is the strongest set of contestants so far. That being said, I think it will be Elliot or Katharine who will be voted off, not due to talent, but popularity (or lack thereof). No one's talking about Paula...what in the world is wrong with her? She may be on the verge of a total breakdown...I wish she'd get it together.

Hello! My doc put me back on the low dose of Topamax, taken each night before bed. Although we are unsure of the actual triggers, it's not all that important if the meds work to prevent them, and this treatment did work in the past. Keep your fingers crossed! She also gave me a prescription for Phenergan, just in case, for nausea. Darcy, how fun! A quilt show....my mom was a very accomplished quilter, and I hope to do more of that when I retire...just no time right now. I love and appreciate the art, and hope you get some great ideas, and some new fabric for your stash. Eileen, bummer that you have such a hectic pace this week...try to keep breathing! Kelly, I think losing a pound a week is ideal; keep wearing that patience hat! It's a battle we all face - being impatient - but just take it nice and easy, and it will be less stressful and healthier for you! Sometimes I feel like I'm not making progress, then I check and see that I have, it's just slow. Yesterday at the dr.'s I asked her if I had lost any weight since the last time I was there...I didn't really think I had lost more than a pound or two...I had lost 8 pounds from the very end of January until now...it doesn't seem like much at the time, but it eventually shows up. It will be the same for you...hang in there! Sherry...I love that line "well and shrinking." LOL! Thanks for your empathy about the headaches. Patty - don't you just wish we could keep the same time, all the time? In the spring, it is so hard to go to bed when it is light outside, and around here, who needs an extra hour of heat?!? When the alarm rings, I'm like, "WTF?" Even the dogs don't realize it's bedtime, and then in the morning, they just raise one eye, and refuse to hop out of bed to go outside.... Pat? Seems like a long time...did I ever thank you for introducing me to POGO? I do have fun there. What a time waster, though! LOL! Gotta run, kids need to learn about Petrarchan sonnets and such.... Hugs, Cindy

Congratulations, Kelly! It is such an inspiration to read your post! Cindy

Since a coule of you have asked about food related headaches, the answer is probably yes...at least some of them. I do have a sensitivity to nitrates (processed meats) and sulfites (sulfides?) which are used to keep stuff fresh, like salad....I can eat these things, but not too much or too many kinds in a row. My other thought is that they are hormone-related....I wrote about this somewhere, maybe here (since I love to repeat myself!). Short version: hysterectomy two years ago, gained lots of weight, all hot flashes, etc., were over. Oh yeah, I do still have ovaries...So, having lost a lot of weight, I am wondering if it kick-started the active menopause symptoms? That's one thing I'm gonna ask my dr. today...I have been very careful to eat fresh food...not processed...since Wednesday, but has not really solved the problem. I still have a dull headache, even now. I love my dr. (her first name is Twinkle!). She's an internist, and is very good at diagnosing stuff. Well, that's all for our lesson on food-related headaches! Check ya later, Cindy

Really, I haven't totally lost my mind...I just re-read all the posts, and realized I've already told ya'll about the science fair...ENOUGH ALREADY! I can just hear ya'll! Probably rolling eyes, too! LOL! Hopefully, I can ditch this headache soon! Cindy

Good morning! I was MIA yesterday...after DH met with the accountant, we had to do lots more specific accounting, and come up with actual figures, instead of her doing it at whatever she makes per hour.... I do appreciate everyone's care and concern for my migraine issue...I am crossing my fingers for a great innovative solution from my dr. today. Maybe I'll go back on Elavil...it worked pretty well in preventing the migraines...I also used a miniscule dose of Topamax for a while, and that worked, too....we'll see. Diane, I really enjoyed your heartfelt advice to Sherry...thank you for taking the time to write it....even though I'm not having a problem with my band, right now...you never know. It is good to be reminded to love ourselves, and stop the blame game. It seems almost a common denominator in our struggles with weight. So, thanks. Betty, OMG! You are cleaning up crap left and right! I'm so sorry that happened, and I bet you are craving an afternoon of play time! Hope your new boss is okay, too. DD went to the big science fair on Sat., and got Honorable Mention...since it was the first time she had ever competed in a bigger arena than 3rd grade at her school, she was disappointed, but we did our best to pump up the idea that only a few people even got to enter, etc....I sure hope we did a good job, so she'll be a good sport, and a good loser as well as a good winner. I think she's pretty proud of herself. What a goober! Well, I was just checking in with my pals...I can't linger, since I am in class with my kiddoes right now. Hugs, Cindy

Hello, everyone! We're back from the TWU Science Fair; DD received an honorable mention. We are happy with that! Okay, so this is the 4th day of headaches...I agree they are from HELL. Can't wait to see my doc on Monday. Kelly, love the new picture, and glad you are doing well with your new fill! Eileen, congrats on the pool...we could actually swim today, it's so hot and humid! Pat, sorry you were sick...I sure hope you are feeling better! Darcy, hope you are having a relaxing weekend! I'm reading and catching up on everything, but with these headaches, I'm not able to hang out on the computer as long as usual....sorry. Everyone have a great April Fool's Day! Cindy

I'm just going to throw out an idea about Bucky...I think there is a big fan base for country/rock, it sells billions of CDs. Maybe that's the fan base. He's likable, too. My thoughts on why Katharine was in the bottom 3...I don't think she connects to the viewers...technically, she is usually a beautiful singer...but it is kinda technical, not personal. That's the feeling I have about her. Kellie, well ya'll know I don't like her much...I guess if she was on a country album, it'd be okay, but there's too much of that Brittany vibe...flash in the pan...okay, well, manipulative nature about her. Have ya'll checked the American Idol site, and looked at the "style" part? It's so fun...you can see what designers they are wearing, and how much the clothes cost. I'm sticking with Mandisa and Chris...still liking Taylor and Paris.

Wow! I'd never considered barametric pressure as a factor, but I guess it could be...thanks for the insight! I do know I experience the same fluctuations in restriction, just figured it was a "band thing." Cindy