Apples2

DH usually means "Dear Husband". Now, at times it has meant "Damned Husband" and a number of other things. We have DD...dear daughter, DS...dear son, GF...girlfriend, etc. The Vegas thing....a bunch of us are meeting in Vegas in Oct for a get-together. Last meet was in FL in Feb. A wonderful time was had by all. :tt2:

We have been through The Villages. Very nice/very unreal!

:tt2: Gwendolyn...we do some winter time in the Ocala Ntl Forest by Salt Springs....not too far from you. We'll see if we travel back to that area again this winter. Maybe can meet for lunch sometime.

Hey Cutie-P-tooties!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! As you all know, it takes awhile to catch up with posts after being gone for almost a week. I will do my best to say what I want to but am sure I will miss something or somebody. Take no offense, please, if I miss you in my post. Phyll...when DH my "buffet" table for my new deck at the lake (yes..buffet table), he made two metal signs part of the table....imbedded right into the table. One says "Our dog is not spoiled, we are just well-trained". Other is "Dogs smile with their tails". Oh yeah, he did another one for me "I'd rather be lost at the lake than be found at home". Just make sure to take a little time for DH once in awhile. LOL Jodi...so sorry about having to put down you much-loved pet. Happy to hear you will be joining us in Vegas. Julie....hope you get some news soon on a Mayo appt. and some answers to what the heck is going on with you and get some much needed results. Also, happy to hear you are making it to Vegas. Janet: Happy Bandiversay to you x 3. You are our fearless leader and I thank you for what I have taken from lessons learned from you. I am more than happy to put you up on a pedestal....you deserve much happiness. OMG....you new pup is so cute. Those eyes are the ype that just make a person melt. She will have a very happy life with you. Arlene...you will get this new food regimine figured out. So many of us here to support you in it. Happy you figured out your resting metabolism and can work from what you know can be your daily intake. So many ways to have wonderful tasting food that is not fattening. I cook low fat/low sugar all the time for DH and he does not know the diff. Hey Eva...can hear the relief in your posts when you talk about retiring....gotta do a job you can love (somewhat at least). Time to do something that is your "passion". Welcome Newbies...looks like you got some sound advice to your questions. Come back often. That's how we all started. With questions, loved the ppl here and kept coming back for more! Great...happy you are going to be doing some travelling with DH. Hope you are meeting some new ppl at your gym. Way to go in going most days. Soon you will be not seeing your visits to the gym as a "job".......for "fun" is a better way to think of it. Laura....thanks for sharing photos and posts of Paris. Just letting you know I am living through you right now cuz not sure if I would get DH to go there. Will need to be one of those GF trips. Safe travels...have fun. I agree with Arlene...Nels has sprouted. Julie....forgot...Happy Fake Bandiversary to You!!!!!!!!!!!!! Cheri..such a sad story about your school friend. And, thank you for sharing the story of your father. It is tough to see and experience as a daughter. Hang in there. Hey, Melissa. Hope things are going better at work and good to hear you are "hanging in". Where's Jessica? I truly miss her posts. Judy....what some else said....Karma...just sounds like a b__tchy person in a b__tchy state of mind. Like I was saying last week. You just gotta be satified with what you have on your own side of the fence. If not....make the attempt to fix it. Good for you for walking away. Had a good week and a few busy days with lots of prep to do for our upcoming "breaking in the deck addition" party on Sat. Finally able to find a time that worked. So many activities this summer at the lake...now our turn. DH invited EVERYONE he has come into contact with up there and some from home. I am sure I will see him out by the resort driveway on Sat waving perfect strangers in. Sometimes wonder if he knows what it takes to host something like this. He says I make it look easy and most times it is. But, so much going on this week. I need to just breath and get after it along with a pile of other stuff. Going to keep the menu simple. Making my homemade BBQ meatballs (10lbs). Picked up sausages from the locker this morning. I grill them and then cut into bite-sized peices (11lbs) and serve them in a Hawaiian/papaya sauce. Making 8 doz deviled eggs (192 halves), chipolte dip, ham/chees dip and a bacon/cheese corn bread. So with that said, I need to step back from the monitor and get my laundry done and some cleaning underway so I am ready to dig in on Friday. Have a "Sweet 16" party for a neighbor girl (also neighbor at the lake) tonight and long hair appt tomorrow. Talk to you all later.

Great...yes, your thoughts DO make sense. We are all on this journey together but have individual struggles. It's not different with accepting the body you end up with. If you are willing to go through the expense of fixing what you want fixed and spending the $$$ to do so...go for it. But, if not, then a certain acceptance has to be put in place and somehow be at peace with what God has given us and just deal. It's tough to get to the place but it is so worth it to work on getting there and letting certain things go. One person's goal may not be anothers...even if they are at the same height and build. Just so many factors come into play. And, I learned a long time ago that the grass is NEVER greener on the other side of the fence. I have always liked my side of the fence. We should all strive to finally make the statement "I love who I am and I'm OK with the body I have". Some things we just have to accept and move on. And, it sounds like you are doing just that. Accept the fact that you gained, do what it takes to be where you want to be once again, learn from it and be at peace with yourself again. (Not a lecture....just proud of you for realizing what you have). OK...down off the soap box and out the door. My truck is running and dog is waiting for mom. Yes, my boys are close, Lori. Growing up on the farm, they were all they had and had great times together. Smacked each other once in awhile, called each other idiot but all in all, good friends.

Happy Birthday and wishing you many more healthy/happy birthdays. Looks like you are well on your way to making that happen. Way to go!

Laura...have the best trip ever. Get Nels a little daily (dated) journal so that he can keep notes and jot down his own thoughts on the trips. Gives him something to do and something to look back on when he is older. We did that with our boys on our trips and we get such a kick today reading what they wrote. Eat some escargot for me. Do a toast to all of us and just have a great time. Hope you will have many photos to share. Safe travels. Just popping on to say "Bye-Bye". Heading out to have some family fun time. You all have a great week. Talk to you Tuesday (if not Monday night). Take care....sending the love.

Aha....let the junking begin! Thanks, Great...Janet is going to get after you for sharing your info with me:biggrin:

Janet...it IS a sad day. Never easy to give a dog away but common sense told you it was necessary. We had to do that once. We live close to a paved road that has lots of grain hauling semis on it. We had two black lab puppies. Went to town and when I got home I found DH holding the male dog and crying really hard. I thought one of his parents or siblings died. The female got hit by a truck and he felt so bad cuz he was supposed to watch them and he loved that dog. I never wanted to have another after that. So tough to see him cry like that. Well, we did get another and he was so trainable with everything. Some dogs are easy...some not so much. We gave the dog to someone we knew so we could check in on him once in awhile. That really helped and reaffirmed that we did the right thing. I am very sorry you and Andrew are having such a tough time. You did what you needed to do. Hugs. Great...thanks for the multi-quote info. We'll see how it goes....or maybe not.

And......when I grow up I am going to learn to do multi quotes.

Julie...Phyll's post reminded me that I did not answer your question about Tanker. Yes, he's very protective when mom is sick. He does not leave my side. And, when I have a kidney stone, he puts his head right on the hot spot. Judi....I must have missed your post. Good going on the new pant size and your newfound friend. After seeing you in FL, I would say that he meant you look healthy...just that...healthy. You are a very beautiful woman and I would take healthy as a compliment. Phyll....what a great idea on the "therapy dog". You would bring joy to so many. Not a better thing that to brighten someone's day that is sitting in a home. Kudos to DH for the idea.

You have me smiling, Laura. So cute. When are you planning to leave on your honeymoon #2?

Gosh, Arlene, I hate putting this out there but I will for you. My average day is between 2500-3000 cals. Some days a bit more. I try to never go under the 2500 because I do not want the scale to drop. I keep a good tally going in my head. I try to eat every 1-2 hours. It all depends on what I eat and how soon I feel I can eat again. I know...not fair. But I find some days that it is a real chore. It could be medication you for your FM that are taking that would hinder weight loss. You have really kicked it up and are doing what needs to be done. This weight loss game is a tough one and we have to learn not to pay attention to the competition (not saying that you do).

Arlene...happy to hear your eye procedure was not a problem. Also, think you also deserve a star for getting out to walk...even in the rain. Way to go!

Big gold star for today!!!! Way to go on going to the gym. You are going to be able to keep up with that new baby for many years.

Hope everyone is having a great day. Have just a few minutes to catch up today cuz it is CRAZY around here. Have one DS doing tiling business on my computer cuz program is being bucky on his laptop. Have other DS waiting in line for the use of my computer. Just handed him our laptop and told him to have at it. They know momma will share no matter what but just wanted to say hi and have my LBT fix for the day. Farm boys sure can eat. I made 18 BBQ chicken legs (large ones) and DH and 2 DS's cleaned them all up and licked the bones. They had a few others dishes on the table to go with the meal and I only ended up with about a cup of green beans at the end of the meal. A way to mom's heart to see them enjoy a meal prepared for them. Joyce...sorry...I must have missed that you have your family home. Hope you are enjoying your time with them as much as I am with mine. Happy Birthday to Gismo! We throw bday parties for our baby also. I always fashion a cake for him out of lean beef roast and put candles in it. The first year he grabbed it so fast that he swallowed it...lit candles and all. Is your DH my DH's long lost brother??????? Us mommas have a way of talking to our children and I am also the one they come to. DH gets so STERN about everything. I have to get after him quite often about his expecting perfection out of every one of us. If I did not voice my opinion and would not have taught the boys to stick up for themselves (not sass or talk back but state their opinion with respect)...makes me wonder what kind of relationships we would have with sons if I didn't find a happy medium when it came to DH's sternness. Had to give a reminder just the other day. Nope, we are not raising 12 yr olds anymore and there are times he talks to them like they are. All is good though. He has a good heart and is a good man. Just like any other man....needs either a size 8.5 or a tongue lashing. (kidding) Well, Joyce, I will speak for all of us and take your above comment and say thank you. We are a good group, aren't we? We are very good for each other. Julie...happy to hear you are moving on from the comment from DH. I am one that would have probably said something about it. I cannot seam to hold things like that to myself. (DH would agree and then agree again and again). We all have our own way of dealing and you did what felt right at the time. BTW...I will never ask for knitting instructions. I admire ppl that can and sometimes wish it's something I would have been taught as a kid. No luck with that now. LauraK...I have absolutely no advice on the man thing. I was hurt twice and never looked back. It is so nice though that he made the attempt to apologize. Being faced with what he is with his health might have been the reason. I guess I would take the gesture as heart-felt and go baby steps with whatever else is in the near future. Gosh, don't you just love all of us ladies and our advice? In fact, Cheri had some great things to share. We have all had such different lives and can learn so much from each other. And, Cheri....I didn't take offense with your statement last night. As long as you made Janet out to be the BAD A$$, everything is good. (That's a joke, Janet). Hey Eva...have a good day. Enjoy your new shows and check in when you can. Sending the love. OK....should get off know. Two boys pacing behind me and I'm messing up my typing. Sending the loves to all of you. BTW...where's our little Jessica?????? I miss you Jessica...Oh....and hi to Jodi and Judy and Laura and Linda and Phyll and all I have missed. I just get so confused when I am gone so much and try to catch up. I'll tell you what I am going to do until things slow down. I am just going to say what I want to say and try not to feel bad about leaving anyone out. You know I love each of you. That's it for now.

Guess I can officially congratulate you now. Very happy for you. Hope your DD has a delightful pregnancy.

Thanks, Cheri....hmmmmmmmmmmmmm..never been called an angel:biggrin:

Nope, DS is NOT a farm boy. Think that's why he ran sooooo far away from all of it. LOL. He's good about helping but would never want it his profession. Oldest DS loves it and we are happy to have him work with us. Youngest is so on the fence on everything right now. He just needed to get away from everything and have some family time and do some thinking. He moved to the Atlanta area for a GF and it would not have been his choice but he was totally in love (she ended up flipping out...long story...mental disease). We still miss her but she would not stay on her meds and laid in bed for weeks. I think he still misses her too. Anyway, he is taking this time to think of what he wants to do. We can only guide him so much in that. He has some exciting job prospects...we'll just see if he goes for any of them or heads back to what he was doing. Lots of stresses in his present job (self-employed). He's young, he's ambitious and never afraid to take a risk. I trust his judgement and will support whatever he decides. Thanks for asking. And, yes, so nice to be a family...not just a conference call.:grouphug:

Phyll......Awwwwwwww....they don't get much cuter than that. Nice to hear that your DH caught the love bug when it comes to Zoey. Hey Linda...I am a lot colder now too. But, I find that it leveled out a bit this past winter. Bet you are really looking forward to your family wedding. Scary thing with the sink hole. Think I would be looking for a different place to live. Long days for you in the office. Worth it though if you can bank some vacation hours. I am thinking my computer time will be very sporatic while DS is here. He did not bring his laptop...not sure why...it's been attached to him for 8 yrs. I will be able to get on when he is out working for DH. DS got one way ticket as he is unsure if he will stay 2 or 3 weeks. Just nice to have him home even if he slings food when he cooks. Patience, Mother!

Great...so sad about your group member and friend. I have requested the metobolic test but doc never followed through with it and I never checked back into it. Should look into it again just to see. I did go to the shop to work today but ended up leaving because I could not function. Thought maybe I could just sit and do the phone but no such luck. Drove to doc instead. Vertigo is better after laying and doing some meds for the afternoon. Felt good enough to get some laundry done. Tomorrow will be better. Everyone else has a cold and I get vertigo. Just the way it is. There are worse things. Phyll...oh, I know what the evening hunger is like. I spend the first year after being banded soooooo hungry after dinner. Sounds like your puppy has you on a routine. LOL. My big guy is such a creature of habit also. The 1.4lbs is not such a bad thing...could be worse. You've done well with not much fill. Hope you get some relief with the next fill. Julie...that's the spirit! Make a nice supper for DH and just have a normal evening with him. Arlene...I like your 'last supper' idea. You know I love to cook and making one last one my loved ones could remember would be lovely. Thanks for the "Missed You", Girls. Back at ya

Hey, Loved Ones...I'm home. I'm somewhat caught up on all "Junked Up" thread but will not take the time right now to write a long post. Did miss you all though. Julie...your DH loves ya...try to see his comment as him talking about the pain...not you. He probably is very tired of it and is just voicing that. Try not to take it as a personal slam. He is in this with you every step of the way, every day. He has to be as tired of it all as you are. Great....congrats on the 3lbs. Cannot wait to do the final congrats when you get off the next 7(?). You can do it! Hmmmmmmmmmm....24 hours to live. I would hope to have all my loved ones to spend each of those 24 hours and to let them know just how much each one meant to me and my life. I would also reassure each person that I would be OK with passing from this world. Reason being....I have lived a good life and with no regrets. I would not trade even the crappy things that have happened to me that were out of my control. It's what makes me, me. If I were unable to have everyone with me during those last hours, I would make sure that by phone, email or letter that I got my message to them on what they were to me in my life (I am talking about you girls and other long distance friends). That's all I would care about doing. Oh yeah, I would need to let DH know that I would WANT for him to move on, get married and enjoy his life. Only stipulation would be to make sure my urn and that 1993 glamore shot of me were on HER bedstand table. Will talk later. Silly sleepy cuz of meds for vertigo. This will pass soon, I hope.

Eva..not a lot of catering in this area except for weddings. We pretty much have the attitude that if we can do it ourselves, we just do it. Friends and families take turns helping each other at events. OK girls...I can finally say I am OUT OF HERE. Think I ran another 3lbs off in the last three days. You all have a good one. Keep the fires burning....turn up your chatter button!

Not too long now b/4 you are banded. Tips? I guess the best advice I could give you is to really stick to all of your doctor's recommendations b/4 and after surgery. Try to be very patient. Have some things at your fingertips to do when you are tempted or hungry. Needlework, take a walk, brush your teeth, take another walk, do a crossword, read, etc. Be prepared before hand. Have all the necessary foods you need in order to stick with your doc's plan for you. Another tip. Come back and ask any questions you might have of us. That's what we are here for. There are many bandsters from 3 yrs out to newly banded. Good luck to you!

Eva...DS is still on the fence. We asked him to wait till Sept 1 (time limit for him to make decision on taking job)...not impulsive decisions when there is a 2 yr contract and such huge life change. He has someone that will buy 70% of his flight school and manage it for him and he would retain 30% interest. Big decisions for this young kid. I really don't want him to do it but, on the other hand, he wants to do this because he thinks he will be sorry if he does not. I said what I thought a couple of months ago and he will need to decide all on his own. He will make the right decision. So young (27) and so wanting to experience everything he can...and has since he was very young. We are proud of him no matter what he decides. Just want not such a risky job. Gosh, Eva...sounds like you have so many options when you retire. Wish we lived closer...E&K's Catered Cuisine. Janet....you'll have to try your best to show off those fingers and toes. They sound cute. Watch out for those guys out there that have foot fettishes!!!!!