ljv52

Here's the last one. It didn't load before. Had to re do these from home as couldn't get it to load before. Here we are with Mallory Lewis and then a picture of her and DH riding the carasol (she refused to ride on a horse). LOL .

Melissa, ditto to everything Cheri said -- I agree wholeheartedly with her. Remember that God works in mysterious ways and I truly believe that also -- I do think this is the best thing that could have happened. But I know it's tough to deal with at the moment, but you'll be looking back at it soon and realizing it was really a good thing. I know with this economy it is very difficult but we are all here and will pray that you find something soon. Try not to get depressed as that will not help your situation. I'd be happy to help you with your resume if you'd like or need some help. Another thing - -not sure what kind of work you do but if it's clerical, you could go to a temp agency and get started working as a temp -- lots of times you'll find a good fit by working as a temp and if they like you, they hire you. Just a suggestion, but at least a small paycheck would be of some help. Thanks for all the nice comments on my pics -- as we all know we all look at ourselves so very critically -- so it's nice to hear such nice comments. Thanks again to everyone. So, since you were all so nice will attach even more pics of yesterday at the Iowa State Fair. Had a good time -- ate some crap - and you know what? Didn't taste at all good -- so we really aren't missing anything - not really -- I think I'm over it - in fact I actually chose several good things at the fair. Very expensive though - actually ridiculously expensive. Everything was either $4 or $8 or $12 (drinks and food). You know you're getting old when you start bitchin' about prices, etc - lol. You know how we all say we are starting to look like our mothers? Well those pics of me in the apron I thought I was starting to look like my grandma, pretty scary, but in a way nice too. LOL. Janet, you are amazing -- I bet you were sore today -- if not wow! I'm very sore from just tromping around the fair for 11 hours -- but oh, did I have fun - riding rides and running around without being tired and able to WALK without sitting down constantly -- it was fabulous!! Enjoyed every single minute. What a difference - last time I went was pre surgery. Saw free concert - the Buckinghams -- 60s groups (Kind of a Drag) - great -- they sounded and looked good too - all in great shape - surprisingly - they said, "we are the sexiest band over 60" -- lol. Really loved it. DH took Merry in for her test today to see if tumor is cancerous -- probably won't know for at least a couple of days. Thanks for all the concern for her - she is a sweetie. Judy, how was the wedding? Where's the pics? Apples, hope you're back soon. Phyl, how's your trip? Julie, so sorry to hear about your pain. Try to rest up until it eases up. Only a few more weeks and then you'll be at the Mayo. Did I tell you guys I broke my glasses in Florida? I felt so lucky cause I had purchased them at JC Penney Optical and I was able to go there in FL. and get my lenses popped into a new frame -- they still carried the same frame from almost 2 years ago. Well, my luck didn't last too long -- About a week ago my frame cracked on the top right side -- just cracked while I was sitting at work. Then it cracked on the right bottom. Neither crack seemed to affect the lenses, so I let it go. I had spent $100 on these new frames so thought I could live with the cracks as long as the lenses stayed in place. Well, yestereday at the fair I hear another crack and the other side cracked big time -- I had to take them off so I didn't lose the lense. Well, I called today and they'll give me a $100 credit towards new glasses -- I decided its been 1-1/2 years so I'll go ahead and have an exam and get new glasses instead of messing around trying to fit my lenses into new frames. Can you believe that? My glasses are very expensive -- so JC Penney is having another of their 50% off sales. So, I'm taking a couple of hours off Friday to go to Des Moines for that and then go back to the fair for my Sly and Family Stone concert (he BETTER show up for this). LOL. DH took Merry in for her test today to see if tumor is cancerous -- probably won't know for at least a couple of days. Thanks for all the concern for her - she is a sweetie. Well, I gotta run. Here's the pics. First one is me and DGD and her favorite treat Pella bologna -- except she's never had it on a stick and usually it's cut up into small pieces -- she wasn't too thrilled with the look of it. LOL. Next is her and I riding the strawberry ride (like a tilt a whirl) and the ladybug -- it was fun -- played loud music and they encourage you to scream -- she loved that. We rode both rides twice -- once in morning and once in afternoon. She wouldn't ride anything unless I rode with her. We saw Mallory Lewis (Sherry's daughter) and Lambchop - very cute show -- I grew up watching Sherry and Lambchop -- we had our pic taken with her - but Aylah wouldn't get too close to Lambchop -- she's afraid of so many things -- even a little puppet! Don't know why - she's very afraid of any costumed characters -- hates them. Hope she gets over that. I am so thankful for my band - without my band I wouldn't have fit on either of those rides and just look at my granddaughter's face -- it's worth way more to me than eating butter, Cookies, cake, etc. I'm so happy I made this choice for me. To the newbie - sorry I can't remember your name. You shouldn't get in the pool until you get clearance from your surgeon -- it'll probably be a few weeks. Did you get a spriometer to breathe into when you had surgery? I had one and was supposed to use it after surgery -- because anytime you have anesthesia it can affect your lungs -- try to use it if you have one or for sure call your doctor. Follow your doctor's orders on eating -- if he says Clear liquids, stay on clear liquids. I was on them for an entire week. All surgeons are different and have different rules for their patients. By following your surgeon's instructions, you get the best results for you. Welcome to our group -- hope you'll stick around and get to know us. We are here for you -- we will help you as much as we can. Congratulations on your decision to change and improve your life. I'll CBL. Love and hugs to all!! Linda

Couldn't get the pic of the dog's leg to load, will try it now, sorry if it grosses you out. She's a little daushound mix -- only weighs 12.5 lbs. Linda

Hi everyone, just checking in. Tried earlier today but couldn't get on for some reason. We took our Merry to the Vet this a.m. for the second opinion. Unfortunately, the tumor isn't "Just" a fatty tumor -- it's a tumor that has been benign both times it's been removed but it is the type of tumor that can matastisize (sp?) and be cancerous. So now the first step is to make sure it has not matastisized and if not, then we'll definitely amputate the leg. If it has matastisized we will do the right thing although it will be very hard. We have hope that it hasn't matastisized because in the past it has been benign and because she has absolutely no other problems/symptoms of anything wrong -- she's eating, drinking, playing, running, doing normal things so she doesn't appear to have any pain or discomfort or shortness of breath or anything. So we have good hope. DGD will arrive soon and will spend the night so we can get up and leave for the fair early in the am. We are all very excited -- will take pics. Laura, so happy to hear the epidural helped your mom -- being off the meds will be beneficial to her as well. I know when I was on Lyrica I gained 20 lbs. almost over night -- and my hunger was unbeliveable. I bet she'll drop the weight fairly quickly although in that pic of her she didn't look heavy. She is a very pretty lady -- you look a lot like her too. Nelson is just tooo cute -- love the picture of you guys -- you looked very skinny by the way. Went to the gym and did 45 on the elleptical, 30 on the treadmill and then weights - I'm sick of the bike. LOL. Julie, glad your PM doctor was nice to you and is going to be there for you -- screw that GP -- her loss. Janet, yes, that's a good description of Rachael -- she's as fake as her boobs -- love that. i told my niece (from Ohio) she should try out for that show - she's the dark haired girl in the wedding pics - she's got a great personality and is very athletic and she tells everyone like it is -- no BS. Joyce, sorry about your DD. I understand what you mean -- they never seem to keep them long enough to really help them. I don't get why -- we had some of that with my SD. Hope she does okay. Thnking of you and sending positive thoughts and hugs your way. I'll attach a couple of pics of GD and me from last weekend in our matching aprons -- and one of Merry's leg -- it's gross, but wanted to show you guys what it looks like. Eva, thinking of you today too. Hugs. Gotta run, will CBL. Love to all -- have a good weekend. Linda

Melissa, glad you are feeling good today -- sounds like it was the right decision for you. I'm just amazed at the procedure as you described it -- so different from the "old days". LOL. Janet, I'm glad you don't cook for Andrew every day -- with your schedule that woud be crazy - - wouldn't it be lovely if our kids would think to cook for us sometime? I guess we can dream - I think everyone's afraid to cook for me - but oh, would that be a nice indulgence. Like I said, maybe some day. LOL. Eva, very very sorry about your friends -- so sad when two people find happiness finally and then to have a tragedy like this it's just unbelivably sad. I'm sure you wil be a rock for your gf to lean on during the next year or two as she struggles to find peace and happiness again. Sending thoughts and prayers to you and your family/friends. So sorry. Julie, what did the pain management doctor say today? Is he on board with you going to Mayo? Julie, I was in line and just getting up to where I could start putting my groceries on the conveyer belt at a very crowded and very busy Albertson's in Long Beach when some young woman with an equally full cart came rushing up and just screamed at me that she needed to go in front of me. I was on my way home from work and I was in a hurry cause I had to go home and cook dinner and I said, "well sorry, but I'm in a hurry too." She then turned and just screamed at me "you fat b____. What do you have to be in a hurry for, so you can go home to eat? You're so fat you probably don't have a family waiting for you at home like I do." It was so awful - I was so humiliated -- I just left the cart full of groceries and left the store with tears streaming down my face. This was a store in my neighborhood that I shopped at frequently and it was packed with people. I bet I bawled for over an hour. The worst part was the cashier was right there and heard every word and didn't say anything to either of us - didn't try to stop me from leaving or tell her she was out of line, nothing. I can't believe people can actually be so mean to other people. Apples, thinking of you too hoping you're doing okay with both your hand and mouth. Why oh why did Brandon wait to win an competition AFTER Rachael left? Makes me wonder -- I swear he threw that bowling competition on purpose -- makes sense -- she would be his STRONGEST competition -- he didn't want to compete WITH her he wanted to BEAT her, so he pretended to fall for her and then got her voted out? I thought he really cared but now I'm wondering. I wouldn't put it past him - people do anything for money. Interesting. That's why these shows are so intriguing to me. LOL. I love to watch the stupid drama. Rachael sure loved to create some drama too - wonder if she really cares about him? Cheri, congrats on the loss -- I love that you don't put up with drama in your classroom -- I try everyday to not allow drama to affect me but I'm not great at it -- It bugs me -- both at work and at home. Arlene, that is a great picture of you - and such a cutie little baby too!!! Love your hair. Hope you all have a great weekend. CBL Linda

Hi all, yes, I watch BB too - so happy Rachel left -- she IS TOO much - such a phony baloney - I wonder if either she or Brendon really care about each other or were just using each other - time will tell - I thought it was weird about Brendan's ex and her mother -- but really, what kind of people go on tv and talk trash about an ex fiance? I wonder sometimes. Anyway, the brigade really does need to get exposed -- and my favorite is Kathy -- she's a sweet girl and deserves to win -- wonder if her story about her daughter is true or if she just said that to try to win? I don't like Brittany much - I wouldn't trust her at all. I don't really like any of them much except Kathy -- I really think Matt is a royal jerk. It was too hot for the concert -- so there wasn't one -- we had picked up GD and had Merry with us so we went to the park to let the dog and GD run around and play then went to our local ice cream shop -- so it was still a nice night. Gosh, I forgot we also have a circus coming to town next week that we are taking GD to also -- everything all at once - then we also got tickets for Mickey Mouse Magic Show in October -- you don't suppose we're spoiling her do you? LOL. Janet, sorry about Andrew - as Lori said teenagers and youngs adults all think it's just about them - and so selfish -- tell him you can't be responsible for cooking his meals EVERY day, it's time he learns to fend for himself and learn some cooking skills of his own -- you need to be free of that responsibility -- he's not a kid anymore -- you'll be doing him a favor. Then maybe make a meal for him on the weekends when you feel up to it -- and when you have time -- but not everyday - -that's just too much. Arlene, be careful walking in the heat -- I don't like hearing that you're having dizzy spells. Cheri, thanks for the information - I do take lots of fish oil - and have for about 10 years - I do think it helps a lot and since my lb surgery I eat mostly fish and just chicken or turkey -- seldom eat any beef or pork -- also don't eat much with wheat in it -- mostly just protein and veggies - and I do think my fibro symptoms have been better since I've changed to this new healthy eating plan. All of it's interesting - thanks for sharing. Eva -- that woman was ridiculous -- I'm glad you walked away -- I probably would have said something very rude and nasty to her - like "shove it where the sun don't shine" -- you were wise to walk away. People an be so ridiculous. You are a very nice and sweet person. Melissa - what an interesting new way for tubals to be done - hope you heal up fast and feel better tomorrow. Julie, glad you had a good day with Mimi -- hope you get your doctor issues are squareed away before you go to Mayo. Well, gotta get to bed. Have a good night everyone! Linda

Phyl, have a safe trip -- hope your back gets better and you can get back to your regular routine. Arlene, congrats on the loss -- wtg -- thanks for sharing what you learn -- it's so helpful to all of us. Joyce, hugs on the DD issues -- I know how it is -- SD went through that before too -- and it's hard on everyone. Will be sending positive thoughts your way. Cheri, interesting about your new health issue cause I have dry mouth, dry eyes and I tested very high for calcium two years ago when I had my kidney failure - they did a full body scan and found nothing but never did anything else -- I'll have to check on this too -- with all my aches and pains, it would explain a lot. Laura, love the pics -- your dad looks great -- your mom looks good too - hope she gets some relief -- that's exactly where my back problems were too -- and I had several epidurals -- unfortunately mine never did much and I ended up with back surgery which I do NOT recommend. It did cure my sciatia but I still have pain every day. Did the gym this am -- 40/40/30 -- was tired and wished I wasn't there the whole time - I've been struggling with exercise lately - I think I'm bored -- plus I exercise my A$$$ off and eat healthy and never see any changes so sometimes I feel like, "what's the use". So today at the gym when I thought that I thought, "oh NO you don't, you got to meet the LBT girls in 6 weeks -- get on that elleptical!" LOL. So thank God for all of you. Lori, wtg cougar -- at least you know you've still GOT IT -- good for DH to be a little "worried" -- lol. Love it - and that's gotta make you feel GREAT. Taking DGD to the Iowa State Fair Sunday -- can't wait - I'm so excited -- her first fair. I'm definitely planning to have some unhealthy planned "treats" -they have fried butter there -- maybe I'll sample that. LOL. Jodi, I have a niece named Darcy so will remember how to pronounce Dassi - such a beautiful name. I loved reading about your plans --I love your religion - love all the rituals and history of it all - thanks for sharing it. Julie, hope you are doing better today - sorry about your post -- I know how that goes. Apples, thinking of you all day -- sending kisses and hugs -- hope the pain is getting better. Did you get the dentist behind you yesterday too? HOnestly you are amazing!! Heat index is at 108 again today - like the 10th day in a row -- supposed to cool off tomorrow or Sat. -- supposed to only be 83 on Sunday and lower humidity -- otherwise the fair would be horrible. Going to see The Buckinghams at a free concert Sun. night at the fair - they are the band that recorded Kind of a Drag -- should be great. Then Fri. the 20th is Sly and the Family Stone - looking forward to that too. To the newbie, yes, Janet is the greatest mentor of all - come hang out with us and you will learn lots - and get your butt kicked if necessary (tough love) but we are all here cheering you on as you take your LB journey. So jump in and tell us a little about yourself. Eva, I'm so jealous about retirement -- I'd love to quit and write more stories and books -- maybe some day I'll be able to -- need the health insurance unfortunately. Well, gang, got the concert at the park with GD tonight - love it -- I think there's only one more week after tonght - free popcorn, free music and free ice tea! Love small town living!! Hugs to all - CBL Linda

wow, do I feel stupid -- thought Jodi wrote the message about he lady with the 3 legged dog -- that's what I get for peaking at LBT while I'm at work. Thanks Judy for the information, I'll pm you and wait to hear from you when you get back from Boston. Thanks for the information -- I appreciate your help. Linda

Jodi, Thanks for the information -- do you know how old the poodle was when she had her amputation? If you think she was older I'd really love to hear how she adapted when it was done. I'll pm you my personal e-mail. If that lady would be kind enough to give me advice, I'd be very happy for it. Thanks, Linda

LauraK sorry and hugs. It's very tough, but I admire you for your attitude. Lori, that is funny -- but I hope you at least took your leftovers home for the doggies? LOL. Julie, your cookie salad sounds great - I printed it - must make it for one of my "ladies" parties. Hope the treatment does you some good. Poor Apples and a dental appt tomorrow - good lord, she is some trooper!!! She wins for toughest woman in the US in my opinon - she's no wimp that's for sure. Jessica, hope you had a great dinner and met some new people -- you are going to do so great at school this year - we're all so excited for your new journey -- and that beach party sounds perfect. Well, gang, gotta watch some tv and get to bed. Hope you all have a great night and day tomorrow. CBL. Linda

Janet, love the bangs, I agree you look younger. And good for Andrew -- he's a nice young man -- it's always nice when they act more mature than you expect isn't it? Jodi, you are so fun -- I love reading your posts too -- so entertaining. You behaved honorably -- unlike those men -- but glad that you got the compliments -- bet they made you feel pretty good and I hope not too uncomfortable. Lori, I was at the gym this morning watching the news -- they showed the crazy woman at the McDonald's drive up window who had a fit cause they didn't serve McNuggets at breakfast -- I admit I thought of you - that wasn't you was it? LOL. Poor Apples, I hope they can get her fixed up and comfortable. Poor girl! Arlene, my friends make those cool tie things to send to the troops - I hear they work great! Judy and Janet, thanks for the input on the dog issue. We are meeting with another vet on Sat. It's just a horrible decision. Last night she had a t-bone bone -- she was jumping around and really enjoyed it. Like I said, she is healthy and active -- so will probably request that they remove it and TRY to suture it and as a LAST RESORT amputate it if it won't work - cause as I said, she is our baby and is still happy and healthy. I hope she'll bounce back okay. This family -- always something going on with someone's health. Yes, my SD does take advantage of me and I try to not let it get to me, but it does. As you all know, I just love being with my GD but I do not like to be manipulated and/or used and i think that goes on with her -- she acts like she's too sick to have her when in reality she wants a break -- I'd be okay with giving her a break -- but I'd like honesty from her -- not being manipulated into doing it. Hope this makes sense. We had a terrible storm this a.m. - my little town had to have some residents rescued from flooding at 5:15 am. -- they were standing on their mini van calling 911 with their cell phones -- we got 3.8" of rain in about one hour. What a way to start their morning, poor people. The road out there is still closed -- this has been such a wet summer - so the flooding is finally happening. I'm one of just a few people who didn't have water in my basement this morning -- lots of people had to miss work to clean out basements. I'm very lucky. Well, time to go home -- need to get going. Went to gym, did my 35/35/30 this a.m. CBL Linda

Everyone had a busy weekend by the sounds of it. We were awakened at 5:00 a.m. Sat. with DGD being dropped off as step daughter was sick and went to hospital. She got out a few hours later but we ended up having DGD until last night. Not wanting to start this every single weekend thing again so I was a little unhappy -- although I love and adore my DGD, I have enough on my plate without her mother deciding she's "sick" on my days off. She needs to take better care of herself and avoid getting so sick. If only she'd check her blood sugars once in awhile! Did go to Bonefish Grill for a lovely dinner Sat.night. Just love their food -- they cook the fish on a wood burning grill and it's perfect -- very moist and delish. I had my tilapia served with steamed broccoli and mango salsa. Yum. Jodi, glad Dassi was able to come home -- especially since her camp is so long - I only went to one week camps as a kid, but always wished it had been longer. I've never been to a wedding on a Monday -- is that because weekends would be so much more expensive in New York or is it a Jewish custom to marry on a Monday? You'll have a great time tent camping this weekend -- I used to love it -- miss it too -- with my arthritis and Fibromylgia I really can't do it any more. Sounds like lots of fun -- have a great time! I Can you take a couple of cases of bottled water? If so that's what I would do -- then you won't have to worry about if you have enough -- should be enough even if others drink some -- I'm sure everyone will bring their own drinks. Laura, hope you enjoy your time in NC -- I know your folks are thrilled to have you and Nelson there. Yes, DH don't really appreciate what all we do when it comes to kids -- I agree -- My DH is much the same way -- it's cause we make it all seem so easy -- for us it's just part of the deal, for them they want an award for doing it. LOL. That sand thing sounds terrible -- a bunch of mother's should file a class action suit to shut that game down! LOL. Arlene, sorry about the carbs - but good going on the exercise. Keeping my fingers crossed on your weight loss this week. I've decided to not weigh anymore -- at least for now. I'm behaving so I'm not worried. I just tend to get frustrated when the scale doesn't move, so why put myself through that? A use a friz serum also during this time of year when the humidity is so bad. Exercise: I did go to the gym both Sat. and Sun -- did 35/35/30 on Sat. and Sunday did bike for 40 and elleptical for 45. I was planning on going to water aerobics this am but we had another horrific storm overnight - and I was awake most of the night so decided sleep was probably more important. Now the darn pool is closed for 10 days (yearly cleaning) so will miss it for awhile. LauraK -- that pig fest sounded fun -- sorry about the pb -- yuck I wouldn't want to do that either. Last weekend we had DGD and she had to "go potty" and we were at a boat dock and the only bathroom was a permanent type of porta potty (outhouse)-- and I took DGD in there and she just took one look (and I'm sure the smell shocked her) -- she looked so shocked - she just turned around and said, "I'm NOT going potty in that hole!" I said, "I'll help you" and she said, "no thank you." It was quite funny actually - she was so outraged at the whole idea. Quite a reaction. Julie, I've catered weddings (for friends and relatives) and never had more than 175 but that is still a lot of work -- more than I could do now. So give yourself a little credit -- you are doing amazing in my opinion. I do hope your pain doesn't get any worse. Hope you enjoyed your time with your little one Mimi. Julie, I agree you should do something -- is there a clinic administrator there or is that who called you back? If it is the same person, then I would certainly do a letter. You do need to put in writing exactly what happened and what was said and get it off your chest. Then you can let it go. I would feel the same way that you do -- so hugs -- I'm sorry that happened -- with all you've been through I think it's terrible to treat you that way. Okay, time to share my most recent problem -- my little angel doggie, Merry. She had a non-cancerous fatty tumor on her front right leg that we had removed twice already -- each time no cancer was found. It's returned even more aggressively than before and is HUGE and ugly. So now we are faced with our new delema -- they are saying they'd prefer to amputate her leg as they believe it will just keep coming back and get larger each time. They also say they don't believe there's enough skin there to just remove it. Well, she's 12 or 13 (not sure as we got her from a shelter) and in perfect health except for this -- she's very active and runs and plays and jumps without any problem even with this huge thing on her leg. We do have an appt. with another vet to get a second opinion before we make any decisions. So I'm very worried. Do any of you have any experience with amputations on older pets? I just wonder if we should put her through this or if it would be kinder to put her down, although I don't even like to think of that as she is just so special and sweet - but again, do I want to put her through it? It's breaking our hearts and is so depressing. It's very hot to the touch and looks painful although it doesn't seem to be painful. Kinda weird. Any advice or similar experience any of you would like to share would be welcome. Thanks. I'm a one purse kinda girl myself -- usually use one until it falls apart -- never care what color shoes I'm wearing -- except for formal occasions -- but never for every day stuff -- I think that comes from being a poor single mom for years -- could only afford cheap purses -- so never got into that much. I've never been much of a shopper -- well I love to buy clothes, but hate to shop -- well, to be honest, I'm starting to like it more now that I can find such great buys and everything I try on fits. It's wonderful. Gwen, I hope you can get both your knees done at once - it sounds better to me than going through it twice. My DH had to have both his hips replaced a year apart and he dreaded that second surgery so much, even though he knew he would feel better afterwards. I always dread any kind of surgery. Joyce, hope you can get another fill - and hope it goes better for you this time. Nothing worse than being stuck and pb'g. Jessica, hope you can find a good babysitter -- have you checked to see if maybe there's someone in your apt. complex with a child that goes to the same school as your son? If they're already taking their kid to school, I'm sure they'd be pretty reliable to take your son and a few extra bucks would probably be welcome in this economy. I think a birthday party at the museum would be fun. But I'm sure your Dad would love to have it at his house - we always love to do things for our GD so I bet your Dad is much the same, even though he's busy, he'd probably love to help out for the party. Lori, sorry about the flight -- that would drive me insane. Hope you can get there Wednes and have a visit with your kids. Maybe you could spend the night and see Grandma on Thurs? I have friends here who have ponds and their fish survive our nasty winters too. I never knew they could until I moved here. Neat that he figured out how to do a water fall -- sounds great! I love the sound of water too. Ocean is my favorite sound. Enjoy Hawaii -- I love Hawaii. Judy what a deal on the sandals!! That's an amazing buy!!! Wow, you win the prize I think for the best deal this week. I can't imagine anything better than that! WTG on the weight loss. I guess if I really want to lose more I could try that. I just hate to give up food again. I like chewing. LOL. Enjoy your nephew's wedding -- loved my niece's -- it was great to visit with all the extended family. Cheri, wish you were my neighbor -- lol. That's very nice that you do that for your neighbors -- are they elderly? If not, they should be ashamed of themselves for not doing it themselves. That's a lot of work, but I know you enjoy it -- and it's nicer to look at from your yard. We had a neighbor like that in Long Beach -- we always had to trim their bushes, and weed their area next to our driveway too. Janet, size ZERO? Wow, you go!! I'm no where near that size. I'm impressed and Jealous (of course). LOL. Okay gang, I better close -- hope Apples checks in tomorrow. Linda

Hi all. Just checking in. Busy day at work, i have a new project that will keep me much busier (thank God). Arlene, I bought matching aprons for DGD and me -- they are so cute -- retro aprons - I'll post pics when we put them on to bake first time. They were pricey, but very well made -- they are even lined. I got rid of my sewing machine when I left LA, so I really feel like a spendthrift as they are cheap to make, but oh well, it was fun. I took the day off from exercise -- didn't sleep well last night and just wasn't feeling up to getting out of bed and exercising at 5:30 so i slept in. I'll be back at the gym tomorrow. janet, glad to hear Bella made it through the surgery okay. Phyl, hope you start to feel better soon. Zoey is really pushing the limits - just like kids aren't they? But I know I'd worry too about her getting hurt. Well, gotta get to bed. Watched a cute movie -- Vince Vaughn -- can't remember the name - it was a couples retreat movie -- comedy - cute enough -- fun on a Friday night. I love Netflix!! So easy! See ya all here tomorrow Linda

Reporting in after the sweet corn serenade - joke was on me -- by the time I shopped at all the craft booths and purchased GD and me matching aprons (too cute) DH and I walked up to get our sweet corn and they had just sold out - I guess I wasn't supposed to have any corn afterall - didn't have to feel guilty!! Talk to you all tomorrow - Glad you're going to Argentina Eva -- happy to hear it - you deserve to enjoy yourself -- you're such a hard worker. Sorry about the post Janet -- I know how awful that is -- that's why I usually type out my response in an e-mail and then copy and paste - I don't lose them that way. Jessica, wtg on the extra scholarship money - it shows how smart you are -- good job. Have a good night all. Linda

Hi all, just a quick note. Went to water aerobics this a.m. -- got there early and jogged in the pool for about 20 mins. before the one hour class began. Loved it. Arlene, my back has been bothering me lately too - must be the FB. The confusing part for me is it's worse now than before I lost the weight -- makes no sense to me -- and we have a temperpedic mattress which we love so I know it's not the mattress. Nothing worse than waking up with a terrible backache. I had a hard time with it on vacation too but I did blame it on the beds then. Living with daily pain is no fun and I've been doing it for about 13 years. But I'm happy to be alive and healthy. We are having our Sweet Corn Serenade tonight - a fun time -- they have bands, craft booths, food and of course you can get cooked corn for ten cents an ear -- its fabulous!! I will treat myself to one wonderful ear. I only eat corn during this time of year so an ear here and there won't kill me. It's unbelieveably good. Eva you said something about 37 more days of work -- is that it and then you retire? If so, I'm sooo jealous. I had a bad morning here and truthfully, I just wanted to walk out this morning. I am sooooo tired of working and dealing with everything. If I didn't need health insurance. . .it would be a whole different story. Phyl, I do hope you're feeling better and sorry to hear about your DGS's accident but glad he is okay. You've also been on a roll with bad things lately -- I declare this to be the END of everyone's bad luck here on LBT. The end!! Okay, it should all be fine from here on out. Also, neither you or your GS should settle out your personal injury insurance claims until you are sure you are okay -- how about physical therapy -- anyone suggesting that to you? It sounds like you have a sciatia problem which is what I had for many years. I hope you can get some relief -- it's hard to travel by car when you have sciatia problems -- the sitting position really tends to aggrevate it -- sorry I don't mean to give you any worse news. Just don't agree to settle that portion of your claim until you've had treatments and your positive you are healed and will need no further treatment. Apples, hope you are doing okay with your arm. Thinking of you. Julie, sorry to hear you are having problems too -- I wish they could have gotten you into Mayo sooner than September! But better than never I suppose. I hate cooked spinach - due to when I was in 1st grade and our teacher made me eat the horrible canned spinach that was served in our cafeteria (hey, I just realized she may be the reason I had an eating problem!). It was so awful and it made me gag and i threw up all over in front of the whole class. Not a nice story. Mrs.. Reeves - she was so old she had also been mother's first grade teacher -- and my mother was 26 years older than me. She also used to smack us with the sharp edge of rulers and I also remember her putting desks into the coat closet as punishment (the kids were put in there with the desks). I was so afraid of her I remember my voice shaking when she'd call on me to read. LOL. She had her kind moments -I remember getting hurt on the playground and she was very nice and took me to the nurse and helped me. Anyway, I do love raw spinach and eat a lot of spinach salads, but still can't stand the smell or taste of cooked spinach. Laura, sorry about your mom but glad you are able to leave early to help her out -- hpe she gets some treatment that will help her. How long will you stay in NC? Well, I better do some work. Hope everyone has a great evening. Linda

Joyce, I really miss watching Sylvia on Montel too -- always looked forward to it. Can't wait to see her in person. WTG on the walk Arlene, you are awesome!! CBL Linda

Hi everyone, Just a quick note. Made it to the gym early this morning - had time to do 40 bike/40 elleptical and 30 on weights. I almost said the heck with it and went back to bed, but guilt took over and I got up. LOL. These rainy days are tough - prefer sunshine to wake me up. Karen, so sorry about your arm, but happy you didn't need surgery. Wow, you need to just sit and relax -- glad you have the lake -- just read some books and hold that arm up. Hugs. Jessica, I liked the pink hair -- LOL. Just proves we are all different -- I've always liked wild hair. Cheri gave you very good advice on your MIL -- she is dead on accurate. As Lori said, wish I'd had that advice when my dm was alive -- she was much like your MIL. Laura, yuck on the swamp germs -- good thing I wasn't a boy. Glad you had fun on your date with DH. Arlene, sorry about the weight but you and I are in the same boat. It's been 9 months and truly, I have gone down in sizes -- without losing pounds -- as I said before, I think our bodies need to catch up to our weight loss sometimes. Good going on the walking, but be careful with that dizziness -- our heat index has been over 100 last few days too. Jodi, good going on the exercise and thinking of Dassi -- prayig for her, poor little girl - she's had it really rough. You are a great mom -- you are very in tune to her feelings and needs. Lori, glad to hear DS got his promotion!!! And wtg on the exercise classes. I was thinking of you at the gym this morning cause I was sweating so much -- I wear a sleeveless top and exercise shorts -- then a girl came in -- young -- in her early 20s I think -- normal weight and she had on sweat pants and a long sleeved sweatshirt - I guess she thought she needed to dress extra warm to make her sweat? Good lord, it made me hot to look at her. She wasn't there very long -- probably less than 20 mins. Joyce, wow, I'm impressed that you went to the concert -- you are so much fun!!! I hope I do that kind of thing with my GD when she gets older. Reminds me, Sylvia Browne is coming to our little casino near here - only $32 to see her - a bunch of us from work are going -- It's Sept. 11 -- should be interesting. Janet, hope you had a great day at work. Hope everyone has a great night - will try to CBL. Linda

Phyl, take your meds before you leave for the dentist. Apples, enjoy your long weekend -- you certainly deserve a relaxing one. Julie, wtg on the exercise. CBL Linda

Love that new mantra -- sweat is GREAT! LOL. I got up at 5, dressed and arrived at the gym at 5:40 a.m. -- and my key wouldn't work. No one was inside, so couldn't get in. I was so mad steam was coming out of my ears. The gym is across town a ten mins. drive each way, so wasted 20 mins. just driving to and from. Decided to go and do water arobics which is 6:30 to 8:00 a.m. -- so ended up really enjoying it -- haven't done water aerobics for a long time. The weights in the water feel like a good work out actually - forgot what a good workout it is. May try to do that for awhile on my off days instead of so much step as I get sore and more tired from step. I pay for the Y membership, may as well get some use out it, right? Called Anytime Fitness after the manager got in at 10:00 (nice work hours don't you think?) and she said the power went out during the over night storm and when that happens the door has to be reset. I had noticed no one else was in there and that's unusual also. Well, the storm started at 1:30 and lasted until almost 5:00 -- it woke me up several times -- you'd think she'd have run over and checked it early so she wouldn't inconvenience people. I guess if there's a storm I won't be trying to go work out early in the morning. Grrr. Apples, hope you are enjoying your drive -- I like to drive alone too -- crank up the radio and sing at the top of my lungs. Love that. And sure your puppy loves it too. Melissa, hope things get better but you need to make them better -- please make the decision to do it for you, no one else, and don't let anyone/anything else stand in your way. It's not worth it to wake up one morning and discover you're over 50 and still overweight and still can't control your eating. It took me almost dying to get my act together and I feel so lucky I didn't die - I took that as a sign from God that I needed to get serious once and for all -- he wasn't joking around with me any more it was literally "do it or die time". I don't want you to wait for that moment. You have your whole life ahead of you and have a beautiful family to share/enjoy it with. I had a few days of problems eating -- had a bad episode Sat. night and I think it irritated my band. Couldn't eat much yesterday but was able to eat a little last night. Today is much better - after reading yesterday about Laura's friend's band slippage I was a little concerned, but I think I'm okay -- I haven't had much trouble all along so I think it was just a bad episode. Hope you all have a fabulous day. WTG on all the exercise everyone. It's miserably hot/humid here too.

Forgot, I went to the gym yesterday (2 hours) and did 60 mins. of step aerobics this a.m. Peaches, that 30/30/30 class sounds great -- that's kind of what I do except on my own I do 30 mins. on bike, 30 mins. on eleptical and then 30 mins. of weights -- a class would be so much more fun. Welcome back Joyce, we missed you -- glad you had a good time and congrats on the weight loss -- I bet everyone was impressed at the weight you've lost so far! Linda

Gwen, Please don't take offense at what I said, I wasn't trying to imply anything at all about your age. Unfortunately, I've experienced a lot of surgeries in my life and I can sure tell the difference in how my body reacted to surgery in my 20s, 30s and 40s compared to now. It just takes a lot more out of you than you realize or expect. I wasn't trying to insult you -- please don't take it that way, just trying to reassure you that what you're experiencing is quite normal after having surgery. You wiill start to feel much better, but it takes time. As others have said, the combination of surgery, less food, etc. is affecting your energy level. But with lap band, just a reminder that this is not a magic cure, we still have to do the work (eat right and exercise) to lose the weight and keep it off. Apples, honestly I don't know what to say except sorry again. What a sad story, but a reminder to us all that many of us (especially me) had our surgeries to regain our health so we can live long and healthy lives watching our grandkids grow up. Julie, impressed with your getting the wedding invitations done so quickly -- your DD is very lucky to have you!! Phyl, I was told no coffee too and like you I asked, but I was told it's because caffeine increases appetite. I boo hooed that rule and went back to my coffee too - I mean give me a break, what are they thinking? Do they really think having a couple cups of coffee per day is really going to prevent us from working our program? I thought it was ridiculous. I just don't tell them that I drink it - now that I know it won't hurt the band. I sure hope you get some relief today from your back pain. Sorry to hear of your difficulties from the accident. I love the Zoey story -- we love it when our dog sleeps with us -- she usually starts out with us and then moves during the night and returns in the morning. We have a big lounge chair in our room that she prefers. LOL. Janet, sorry about the Ryder issues -- Andrew wasn't being fair and I expect he realizes that but at his age, they need to push the envelope. I'm proud of you for not giving in -- was hard I know. But as Eva said, it's much better for Ryder as well -- and I'm sure Andrew realizes that deep down. He's lucky to have had you in his life -- I know he's thankful. Eva, I do hope you'll take advantage of the trip to Argentina - what a great opportunity -- another reason to retire. We have a time share and when we plan an exciting trip I'm always thrilled to offer it family members to join us. I've always wanted to see Argentina -- it's so gorgeous there!!! Yes, I think with the weekend I'm finally not exhausted -- but truly I was completely worn out last week - I worked long days before, played hard during vacaton (and didn't sleep great on vacation either) and came back to work the minute I got off the plane and worked long hours to save on vacation time. I finally got some good sleep this weekend - slept until 10:00 Sat. morning. That's unheard of for me! Melissa, hugs and more hugs. As someone said, please try to get back to the basics and remember why you went through the process and take some teeny, tiny steps (remember any steps are good steps). You can and will conquer this disease -- don't let work and other problems derail you. LauraK, sorry about your friend -- these issues are tough and he is very lucky to have you in his life, this won't be easy for you and you are brave to undertake a relationship at all with him at this point. Proud of you for all the exercise you're getting done -- I bet you are looking even more fabulious. How's you DD doing? Is she liking her job? Hope so -- hope she'll all settled in. Lori, sorry about your camping trip -- does that mean it was good news for DS and the new job? Laura, OMG, I cried so hard reading your post -- what a beautiful story, what a beautiful human being you are. No doubt in my mind that you were especially chosen to be Nelson's mom -- he is so lucky. Peaches, so proud of you and your exercising the past several weeks - I agree, I too am still a couch potato in exercise mentality -- would still like nothing better than to just sit and do no exercise, but I know that is the way back to an unhealthy life. We don't have to do so much everyday --even a 15 mins. walk is better than nothing -- just have to find some balance - I tend to over do it and need to take it easier some weeks. I had a very sad childhood and my DM was not the warmest in the world -- during the last few months of her life we finally had what I consider "normal" mother-daughter talks -- like most of you I raised my son the exact opposite from how I was raised - I filed for divorce from his father beause I didn't want to raise my son in an environment of substance abuse/mental cruelty. My mother endured this from my DF and I knew how it felt as a child and didn't want that for my son. Like most of you, I have told him "I love you" every day of his life. When he was young, we'd be on the phone with my DM (we lived far away) and my sweet son would say, "I love you GM" and she would just not respond -- she just couldn't say it -- so sad really, which I can't understand. Like you said, Lori, it was her loss, but I also felt my DS was robbed of a special bond with her which made/makes me sad too. His other GM was normal and he had that for which I'm very grateful. I had a busy weekend. Had GD Sat. and Sunday most of the day, so wasn't on line much. Back to work today. Even when I don't post I still think of all of you. I'll try to CBL Linda

Hi how is everyone doing? Hope you've had some better success this year KBGO.

Sorry Gwen, maybe you just overdid it a little and you need to rest up - I'm sure your energy will get better -- remember you had surgery just 3 weeks or so ago. You aren't 20 years old any more, your body needs recovery time. Heck I'm all worn out just from going on my vacation and working all week. Hang in there. Linda

Laura, you're so sweet to think of the mother -- warms my heart as my step daughter gave a child up for adoption and every year on his birthday we all think of him and especially my step daughter does for sure. So it's nice to think that maybe his "mom" thinks of us as you do for Nelson's mom. You and your DH are such great parents that I'm sure when the time comes Nelson will accept the news. Hope you have a great day with him tomorrow -- will be thinking of you. You expressed yourself so well, I also cried while reading your post, so yes, it made sense and was very well said. Love you, Linda

Morning everyone! Apples, you are an amazing woman! You remind me of a pioneer woman -- always working, cooking, taking care of everyone -- truly an angel. Janet, good idea about exercise -- I did mine even on vacation - this week a little less (cause I'm worn out from the vacation) but still managed the gym twice since Monday and will hit it again tomorrow and then back to my normal of doing at least 1 hour of something every day. To everyone who hates it: take Janet's suggestion on a class - it's more fun than walking on the treadmill/elleptical/bike alone -- you'll meet other people and enjoy the music -- there's regular aerobics, step aerobics (my favorite), water aerobics, zumba, yoga, silver sneakers (low impact for seniors or people new to exercise) etc. etc. After a few weeks you'll probably feel better and will be more likely to do more on your own. Just my suggestion/experience talking. Lori, soooo happy to hear the verdict -- I had no doubt it would happen, but you can't ever be sure until it actually is read. Glad you and DH have that behind you. LauraK glad to hear you and ex are still trying to see where it goes -- sounds like you care a lot for each other. How long were you broken up? Was it just a short time? (I'm so nosy.) Arlene, glad DD is okay - love the name -- my sister's name is "Beth Anne" -- my neice in Ohio who just found out she's pg again was hoping for a girl but alas, is having her third boy. She was planning to name it "Beth Annie" if it had been a girl. So that name must be popular again or something. My DS is 51 - funny how names repeat themselves. Like now any one named Linda is my age or older -- maybe it too will come back some day. Julie, hope you're doing good today with the pain issues. How was your appt. with the new doctor? Did you ever hear back from your clinic about why you got the axe from your GP? Okay gang, gotta work -- unfortunately. Looking forward to the weekend -- I'm so tired!!! Can't wait to sleep in past 5:30 a.m. Have a great Friday everyone!! Linda