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LOL Apples - I think it's simply called "being human" - doesn't matter what nationality. You hang in there -- sorry you're having such bad weather. We had tornano warnings here last night - I don't think any actually touched down though thank goodness. OMG Jodi - that's just ridiculous -- I agree with Janet, get a lawyer immediately -- a consult should be free - just to find out what your legal rights are at least. This has got to be so very stressful for you - sorry that's hapening -- just not fair to Dassi. Keep us posted. Remember, food won't make the situation any better -- be strong on that one. You looked beautifulin the pics - Dassi looked gorgeous - loved her dress - she is so photogenic -- very beautiful skin -- she is just lovely and seems so mature for her age. Janet, I'm doing fine -- just very busy with work etc. Katie is on some new meds (Lyrica) for her neuropathy which seems to be helping her -- so far so good and keeping fingers crossed. They were here Sunday for dinner - gosh I miss Aylah so much when she's not here. I see my ortho guy Friday for my neck and find out the results of my MRI, etc. Hoping for the best in that area too. Are you sore from your workout? LOL. Funny how one week away can make such a differnce. Phyl, saw on FB you got your I Pad -- congrats and that was nice of Earl to stand in liine for you -- what a sweetie. I thought you already had an IPad -- was thinking you got one ;last year when they first came out. Lori, pics on FB are so incredible -- Dan's mom is soooooo young for a great grandma -- she looks great -- baby Katelyn is just gorgeous - your DD looks great already -- and your DH looks happy about it all -- it's interesting to watch our DH;s as grandpas -- mine is a wonder GP and I love to watch him with Aylah - they have such a great relationship. When's the next trip to Denver? Your GM doesn't look any where near 100 either -- wow -- she looks great. Hope your friend's DS is doing better - have you heard any more about htat? So sad - I hope he realizes that the meds are necessary and starts to take them -- how frustrating that must be for him mom - I can't imagine. Eva, that story will get there -- I rewrite so much -- which is why my book is still here - and not submitted yet. You should check on line and see if you can find any writer's groups in your area -- people who get together and read and critique each other's work. Especilally helpful after you finish your class and want to continue writing -- always good to have sounding boards. Yes, at our ages we do have loads of personal experiences to write about. Jessica, hope all is better for you today - when do you do your presentation? Thinking of you and hoping all goes well. Have you heard back from DS's doctor about the meds? Julie, hoping all is well with you -- and you're feeling better today. Joyce how's that arm feeling now that you've had the cast off a while? Hope all is well. Glad to hear your DD is stablized on her meds. That must be a relief to you. LauraK -- enjoy Vegas!! Have a wonderful time and win some big money -- lol. Laura - sorry about the middle east -- I've been thinking of you and your DH throughout all the unrest - My company has an office in Abu Dhabi -- that's one area where they still have money to build. It would be nice if his mom could travel there - you've never met her and I know you were looking forward to meeting his family. Is there a reason she can't travel there? Glad your dad is feeling well enough to travel to Florida - that will be a nice trip -- I wouldn't stress about the house - he's not coming to inspect your house you know. LOL. Cheri, thinking of you and your DD and hoping all is well and she's still tolerating chemo as well as she was last week. Well gang, time to hit the showers -- have zumba tonight -- looking forward to that. Have a fabulous hump day! Linda.

Arlene, I'm sooooooo proud of you!!!!!!!!!!!!! Keep it up girlfriend!! You rock! Linda

Great - I sent the 17 day diet info out to al of you via e-mail over the weekend. Basically it's just like how we are supposed to eat. Jessica, I'm so sorry to hear you struggling but you will get through that class -- you're so used to getting A's that it's scaring you -- but I know you'll pass -- maybe you can get some help as Cheri suggeted. As far as your son goes, you need help and support from your DH -- you need to tell him exactly what you told us -- "no adult gets a day off -- when you're home from work there's more work to do at home -- we are raising a son together and I need your help -- quit playing the x-box ALL the time" etc. He needs to grow up a bit and accept part of the responsibility and take some of the burden off your shoulders. As the old saying goes. . . you didn't get pregnant alone." Sorry that your son is struggling with the meds -- I agree that you should call the doctor right away. Jodi, sorry to hear you are sick -- hope it passes quickly -- you were probably run down from all the party planning. Eva, good luck with your story submittal -- hope you win the contest. Is it a national contest or something local or through the school? LauraK - I remember dating days too -- ugh -- hated it -- never understood that type of behavior either - not sure what it means BUT I do know it's NOT about YOU -- it's their problem and has nothing to do with anything you did. It sounds like you already have it handled, but just in case you have any doubts, it wasn't you. Apples, glad you made it back in time to meet your friend. Janet, sounds like you girls had a great week albeit exhausting. It's fun to vacation from home once in awhile. Well, gotta get going to my morning Water aerobics - had my zumba last night - all new routines -- but good - it was so hot in the room - they had no air on and no fans and it was about 90% humidity -- very very sweaty. Meredith, how would you respond to your friend if you didn't work with her? I think that's a clue -- you need to figure this out and do something or she's going to start demanding even more and more of your free time - these type of people don't back off on their own. Trust me, I've been there. Cheri, happy DD's tumor is responding nicely and things are going okay for now. Gotta go. Linda.

For those of you getting stuck on eggs, I do soft scramble and they are easy going down or also poached are easy going down as well. I almost always get stuck if I try to eat a plain, hardboiled egg. I sometimes dice it up and put just a smidgeon of low fat mayo in it -- like egg salad to help. Linda

As long as your urine is light yellow you are drinking enough Water -- that's what I was told by my kidney specialist and he should know. So I go by that - I drink a lot every day -- and I pee constantly so I don't count anything anymore. Eva, great deal on the table -- hope it helps your back. Arlene, so proud of you on day 2 - wtg -- good going -- have you tried the green tea yet? I bought some flavored ones -- pretty tasty -- but I have to put sweetner in them. I do prefer coffee -- but will try green tea -- I'll do any thing that promises to increase my metabolism. LOL. Well, I Kids were over for the afternoon and early dinner - simple dinner -- I made them sloppy joes, french fries and green Beans (Aylah's favorite). There was a frozen sugar free blueberry pie in the freezer so I threw that in the oven. Bryan had a gf over too -- Aylah was fun as always. Katie did some laundry - our water bill is over $250 for 3 months - and the kids wonder why we hate them doing laundry here. Grrrrr -- hate to be grouchy about it, but they sure do cost us money. LauraK, so disappointed that the bf didn't work out -- but I still think my fantasy train trip meeting I dreamed up for you would be very romantic - maybe it really will happen. Hope so. Enjoy your visit -- tell your DD hi for me -- hope you both have a wonderful time. To the newbie -- yes, Eva gave you good advice - the band is not a "magic cure-all" for losing weight - in fact I only got the band because I wanted a tool to help me keep the weight off after I lost it -- and so I'm pleased with it -- you still have to eat healthy and exercise to lose the weight. It's hard to make a decision -- do you know anyone locally who has had lap band or other obesity surgery? Have you lost weight on your own in the past and if so, how long did you keep it off? That might help you make a decision as well. I had lost over 100 myself and several other times large amounts of weight (50 or so pounds) only to keep regaining it plus more - that's why I thought the lapband might be a tool I could use to help me avoid that circumstance after losing the weight this time. Apples, glad the cake was okay - he sounds like a great kid and yes, she sounds like a great gal. So happy you have these kids in your life -- you need them to help you lower your stress level. Cheri, sorry about the fainting spell - but maybe you could carry something with you like someone suggested -- a Protein bar or some Jerky maybe? It was hot here today -- about 75 and high humidity - had doors and windows open -- so fabulous!! Loved it -- even had a few ceiling fans going at times. Loved it all. Lori, hope your DS does visit this week -- be a nice diversion for you. Is DH home this week or traveling? Well, gotta get to bed . With the time change it's been hard going to bed on time -- hopefully by next week I'll be more used to it. Hope we hear from Janet soon - have missed her so much. Love to all. Linda

Morning everyone. Jessica, you look so gorgeous in your new pictures - you will look great on your cruise -- that sounds like a wonderful vacation - just the three of you - for some reason I was thinking the inlaws were going too - so glad they aren't - it'll be a great time for you guys -- enjoy enjoy, Good going on the weight loss too -- I do think your previous doctor was not a good fit for you - proud of you for changing doctors too. Had a big, noisy thunderstorm over night -- poor Merry gets all upset - she kept jumping up in bed with me - just enough to wake me up and then would run and hide in the closet again - we have a big walk in closet/dressing room which is between our bedroom and our bath -- it's a small room basically -- we have a set of low hangers for my blouses and jackets and she loves to sleep there where she's mostly hidden by the clothes - so cute but poor baby is so scared -- she litterally shakes during storms. When I know they're coming I usually try to give her a calming treat -- that helps a bit - but I didn't know it would happen over night. I think she jumps in bed to check on me or something - she's so protective. Lori, glad you're home safely. You'll be wearing out the road between Denver and Salt Lake -- how long of a drive is it? With the gas prices you'll probably be better off flying. Glad you were able to be there and help your daughter -- trust me, any time you want to go she'll be happy to see you. Take lots of pics -- I'm having a hard time even remembering our Aylah when she was a baby -- I have to look at the pics - it seems so weird now -- it seems like she's always been the way she is now LOL. Went to the casino and had crab last night -- got home and tried to watch Hurt Locker - I couldn't watch it -- too real for me -- even DH had a hard time watching it. DH had a bit of an upset tummy -- he ate a lot of things I didn't so I didn't get sick -- all I had was crab and prime rib. He's feeling better this morning thank goodness. Sunny out now so hopefully will have a nice day -- already 50 so olooking good. I will do step aerobics at home -- went to the gym yesterday but am so tired of working out alone - thank goodness Zumba is back tomorrow -- I've missed it so much. Julie, glad to see you post -- sorry about your friend. Can't wait to hear what your doctors have to tell you when you ask those tough questions this week. Kristi - your eating sounds perfect - you're doing so great - congratulations! Eva, glad you enjoyed your time with your DB - too bad your friend was sick -- kind of a bummer -- I know you must have been disappointed. Well gang, I best get moving this morning -- slept in (until 9:30) and now it's getting late so need to move before I get too lazy. LOL. Chris - was hoping to hear from you some time -- how are you doing? Have a great Sunday. Linda Hope you all have a great day.

Good Morning. It's a nice sunny day here -- bout 30 now but supposed to be in high 40s. Enjoying the spring weather. Not too much rain yet. Busy day yesterday Came home and Aylah and Katie stopped here to visit just as i got home and was getting ready to go to the gym so was delayed for an hour. Hadn't seen Aylah all week so had missed her. She had made us cupcakes and dropped them off. My poor DH -- has to eat double of everything as I don't eat them -- she's always making Cookies, cakes, cupcakes, muffins and bringing them over. Oh, i forgot to tell you that we have a classifieds at work and people sell stuff all the time -- I grabbed a like new Easy Bake Oven for $5 the other day to put away for her - the one with the light bulbs - as they are no longer going to make those I thought I'd better buy it now and stock up on the bulbs. LOL. She'll love it. Same girl was also selling a Dora mitt and baseball and it IS new -- never used -- got that for $3 -- those were my deals of the week. I can usually do pretty good on buying the big items for Aylah this way -- last year I bought a giggle me Elmo for $10 - it was one of her favorite Christmas gifts. Lori, you're probably about ready to hit the road - have a safe trip -- you'll be visiting soon -- don't cry too hard. Saw the pics on FB Phyl posted of lucky 7's -- Peaches is so pretty -- she was singing karioke it looked -- they looked like they were having a great time. My apologies to Jodi, Jessica and Candace -- i somehow didn't have you guys in my LBT list on my address book -- that's been corrected. I'll send my e-mail from yesterday to you guys - I apologize - i checked my list this morning and realized I had missed some people -- not intentional - I now have my list up to date and correct. Not much planned for the weekend - I'll work out and catch up on some tv I've taped and never seem to have time to watch. Have a few little chores to do but cleaned well last weekend and not planning much -- we might go to the casino for dinner tonight -- not sure -- probalby though as the weather looks good. I'm kinda bored .LOL -- can you believe that? Sheesh. Next Friday I go to Des Moines for my appt. with neck ortho. and so I'm taking the day off so we can run other errands while we're there. Gotta get to the gym. Just sent you all an e-mail -- let me know if you got it. I got a failure notice but I think it was only on Candace's e-mail -- can't tell for sure. Later. Linda

Apples wtg on the deals - wow! Very nice deals. I had to giggle cause you said "DH's GF" instead of DS's GF. LOL. Had a nice chuckle over that - just thinking how generous of you to go shopping and lunching with your hubby's mistress. LOL. Glad you're enjoying your little friend -- fun isn't it? I posted a pic on FB last night of our little Aylah putting a puzzle together with DH and she looked so content sitting next to him - just a cute picture where she really showed her adoration of her "papa". Joyce, so nice you are finished with your nurse - glad your getting back on your feet. Called my brother last night -- he's still very weak and still on oxygen. He's complaining about his strength and energy and I assured him it will take a long time to regain it all back -- those infections are so tough on your body -- his wife told me he wasn't depressed but he was very emotional when I spoke to him. I need to get there for sure and soon -- I think he really needs some family around. I hope to get there this summer. CBL -not feeling up to much -- maybe take tonight off - will see how I feel when I get home - I sure miss my zumba glad spring break is over and instructor will return next week - it's been tough exercising alone most of the week - very boring. Later. Linda

Morning everyone happy Friday! Got up to 73 yesterday -- quite a nice temp but the sun never came out so it didn't seem as nice. I didn't realize the temps were cooler in Vegas and my DS and DIL called me thinking I was rubbing it in on FB. LOL. I had no idea I had warmer weather than they did. LOl. Sent you all an e-mail so be sure to take a peek -- some interesting information on dieting and carbs. I think I'll try it a few days and see if I can break this plateau. Have a great Friday -- CBL. Linda

Happy late birthday to Joyce - -I sent you a note on FB but forgot to mention it here. Hope you had a great one -- what did you do to celebrate? Linda

Forgot to wish everyone a Happy St. Patrick's Day!! Linda

Morning everyone. Another gorgoeous spring day here - temps stayed up first time last night - it's still 50 here -- usually dips into 20s over night - it's a good sign. We are supposed to get some rain for a few days. . .better than snow. Cherei, what a fun memory of those beautiful children, My heart and prayers go out to you Cheri for all the trauma you've endured over the past year. Hope your DD will start to include you more in her life - I'm sure it's hard tht she keeps pushing you away. But as mothers, we have to deal with that. You're there for her and she knows it -- she's probably worried about how her health is affecting you and is trying to shield you from some of it. Sorry for everything you're going through. Arlene, hows the face? has it healed up from the waxing and the fillers? Are you happy with it? Do you recommend it? Apples, did you get your panni scheduled? So excited for you - I ws all set this year to check into it but now I am waiting to see about my neck -- if I have to have surgery for that -- I don't want to do two in one year. Lori, how's Katelyn and GM and DD? Hope you're enjoying yourself. We do miss your posts (and Janet's) but know you're having a good time and will be back soon. Julie, I'm getting my paddle out for when you're feeling better -- you beter not leave us here -- we need you -- you are one of our rocks and without you, this thread would not be the same. Having your band out does not disqualify you from love and friendship so you just keep coming on here and let us help you get through all that you're going through. We love you and want you to get healthy and be pain free!! So please jump in here every day and tell us how you're doing and what is new and what your docotors are telling you. Perhaps you could get the sleeve or something to help with your eating -- but remember, you still have some very valuable tools you didn't have 100 pounds ago -- you have knowledge and you have already changed your lifestyle to include healthier foods and you have us to help. So use us please. Tell yourself POSITIVE things -- never negative -i.e., I will eat correctly, I will maintain my weight -- I truly believe that our brains listen to us much more than we realize and if we tell it the negatives it will cause the negative to happen. Laura and LauraK -- wtg on the weight loss - proud of you both!! Jessica -- wow, you are just amazing -- good for you on the demonstration. The public speaking will be fine - if you've done your research and know you're subject you will do great -- can you use notes? If so just jot your notes on index cards and glance down at them occasionally -- be sure to look at the audience - it's important -- I'm very lucky that I don't mind speaking in front of groups I rather enjoy it -- but I understand how frightening it can be for others. Pracitce outloud at home in front of a mirror as well -- practice at least 5 times out loud and that should be good prep for you. Just have faith in your knowledge and tell yourself positive things as you get up to speak. We know you'll do great - it's just another hurdle you WILL get over - what a tremendous journey you have had the past year -- you are amazing! Eva, so great that you enjoy your gardening -- I'm going to plant my tomatoes just as soon as I can -- hopefully by the end of April - can't wait . Used to have a full veggie garden but don't have time for it any more so we planted grass in it a few years ago -- miss all the veggies but still have one raised bed for tomatoes. We only have two small flower beds -- just so hard to keep it up with everything else - my DH does a great job with our yard work. Gotta fly, I'm late for aerobics.have a good one Linda

Monring everyone! Apples, you are too funny - just keep the prize in your mind and you'll get through the surgery, incision and drainage just fine. Don't remember if you had your GB out when you were heavy - but if so this surgery will be much different for you now that you are thin and so very healthy - I breezed through my hip -- being at normal weight makes a huge difference on every level. You'll be just fine and yes we all still love you even if you don't like looking at blood. Julie, thinking of you and keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. Arlene, thanks for taking the time to give Julie a call and reporting to us - that was very nice of you and I appreciate it. Jodi, can't wait to see more pics -- saw the ones on FB -- Dassi's dress was gorgeous - she looked absolutely gorgeous as I knew she would. She's a lovely girl and you should be very proud - gosh even I teared up when I was reading your post about your ex not being there -- must have been hard on everyone but I'm sure he was beaming from heaven. Hope you can get back to your regular life now -- that was a huge event to plan and prepare -- glad it went off so beautifully and Dassi was happy with everything. Lucky 7's hope you're having a blast -- every time I see a pic on FB I'm a bit jealous. We had 61 degrees and sunshine yesterday - wow -- I loved not having to wear a jacket at lunch. Just enjoying the spring - it's so wonderful - love the longer nights too. Lori, hope you're loving your grandma duties and I'm sure your DD is enjoying some help -- hope that bully MIL is behaving -- thinking of you guys. Glad your DH took time off to enjoy the family time too. What's your GM saying about the baby -- I bet she's thrilled too. CHeri, happy your party went well and sorry your Dad is doing poorly -- it will be such a relief for you to have him in MI -- glad it's soon - hopefully nothing further will happen between now and then. So very sorry about your DD -- I cannot imagine how tough this is -- you've been through so much the past year -- my heart goes out to you. You are a strong lady -- I'm so glad you have your strong faith to help you through. Sounds like your DD will have the best of the best to help her make her decision. Thank goodnes she has a connection to get some answers. Will be thinking and praying for you all. Gotta get to work. It's late. love you all. Have a great Wednesday!! Linda

Good morning everyone. Meredith -- so much fun -- sounds great -- glad you had a good time -- nice way to Celebrate St. Pat's day -- wtg on the 5k. Wow, good deals at Old Navy - I've never shopped there -- will hae to check it out some time. When do you leave for Florida? LauraK-- congrats on losing the weight -- I've been stuck at my 138 -- can't seem to get any lower -- not complaining -- just wishing I could get that last 6 or so off -- it's just a stupid goal hanging over my head and I want to reach it. Saw some pics of Dassi's Bar Mitzvah on FB yesterday -- haven't been on FB since yesterday - Lori I'll look for those 4 generation pics today. Gld to hear Julie is home, hope she gets results today. Eva, I'm so jealous about the book festival - some day I will get to go to one -- we have a great program here at Iowa University in the summer -- but it's hard for me to take time off work to go. Keep up the writing -- I haven't been doing any -- some day I'll get back to it. need to get the book polished up and submitted - so sad really. WEll, gang, gotta run to Water aerobics. Sandy have a wonderful time -- Apples - hope your weather warms up. Cheri how was the party? Love to all. Linda

Morning -- I can't believe Arlene gets out of bed so early! If I didn't have a job I certainly would still be in bed! Ugh!! Yes, it feels early but I so love Daylight Savings time that after a day or two I am in full swing and usually feel more energized in this time than in the other - I just love having the daylight longer at night. Apples, wtg on the 12 doz. Cookies -- such a good cause too. Sorry about your weather -- as I said over the weekend looks like we are heading into spring and I'm so glad for it. I wish you could have planned the train trip too -- would have been fum - maybe another time -- I'd love to go back to Duluth some time -- lived there for one year 1970--1971. Haven't seen it since. Janet you girls have a great time -- enjoy enjoy enjoy! Arlene, wtg on getting up early to exercise - sorry about the scale episode -- lol. Happy belated Bandiversary to Laura - I can't believe you forgot - you must have been just so preoccupied. Maybe that's a good sign that we don't dwell on it. I usually forget to include it in my medical history when I'm filling out forms -- when I list "surgeries" I just usually forget - then when I'm talking to the doctor or nurse remember to add it. Sandy I haven't said much about Japan -- it's so devastating - just so painfujl to see -- unbelieveably painful - can't imagine living through a disaster like that -- just shows how strong humans really are. The nuclear meltdown is so scary. Jessica - sorry to hear about your son's continued medical problems -- hopefuly he'll get his weight back up -- poor kid! Hope they can recommend a differnt med. Remember not to stress too badly about things you mentioned about not having enough time -- just do what you can and what's most important -- and leave the rest undone - i used to think the world would end if something went undone - it doesn't -- you'll be just fine if you don't have time to do a few chores - you have a lot on your plate - so do what IS absolutely necessary (like school work and taking care of your son) and leave the rest to do another day when you do have time. You sounded so stressed, so I worry. Aylah spent yesterday with us too and then went home last night -- she is always a joy to have. When we got here Friday night, she called out to Merry "Merry I'm home" it was so cute - glad she feels so comfy here to call it "home". I miss her already. Time to hit the shower -- my zumba instructor is on spring break so no class tonight. I ended up going to the gym yesterday for an hour of cardio - will hit it again after work -- just couldn't face the early morning today -- tomrorrw will do it though for my deep Water water aerobics. Have a great day all! Linda

Morning to all. Just a quick note. I'm really in a lot of pain today for some reason -- back is terrible, neck is sore, shoulder is sore -- so going to take it easy. Did a lot yesterday -- cooking, cleaning, running around, step aerobics, etc. Then when we went on our walk I was pushign Aylah up hill on her bike as it was a steep hill -- that's probably what I did to cause the pain. Oh well, live and learn. Has anyone heard from Julie? Lori, your DD's MIL reminds me of my sister's MIL and she was a handful - always wanting things HER way, pushy, bossy, controllling, etc. My sister was fortunate in that she died a few years after they got married -- before she had her kids. That sounds mean to say that, but even my sister says that if she'd lived she doesn't know if she would have made it with her marriage and she's now been married over 30 years. My sister isn't a whimp either but the MIL was way too much. So I offer sympathy -- she and her DH may have to go to a counselor to figure out how to deal effectively with her TOGETHER because that's the only way to deal with people like that. Cheri, I do understand what you are talking about as well as I sorta was like that when I first moved here where my DS and DIL lived -- several times I was offended at things that I shouldn't have been with my DIL and it took me some time to adjust and realize she wasn't trying to offend me, it was the way I chose to react. But I do think Lori's DD's situation is different -- I think that MIL is truly a bully. Janet, have fun with your Lucky 7's -- it should be a wonderful week -- the girls from the northern states are so going to enjoy your beautiful weather - you have perfect place to host there -- and nice that you all rotate areas so you always aren't having to fork out so much for plane fare. I'm sure those bars turned out great -- I use granulated splenda all the time in all my baking -- even in my fudge -- no one ever can tell the difference -- no one has ever said anything tastes funny. In baking I sometimes add a tad more liquid cause using the splenda does tend to dry things out a bit when you bake -- I made muffins yesterday -- they are a tad dry -- not that anyone here complains, they just looked dry to me -- everyone says they taste fine to them. Aylah and I made the muffins and a banana cake for DH - his favorite cake. I haven't baked since Christmas and he was missing something sweet - I made that cake last weekend for Bryan's b-day and DH didn't get "enough" of that to fill his cravings. LOL. I don't mind - I'm lucky that I can bake and I don't care about it. Aylah is still here -- her mother sounded better last night -- so she'll go home today - I'm tired and need a good rest day. DH is making her some Breakfast and then we'll probably drop her off at home. My plans for today - watching tv and relaxing. Melissa, going back to school would be great for you -- keep you busy, give you something to do (besides worrying about eating) and would help you find a better job. Hope you can use that scholarship. Have a good day everyone. Love to all, I'll be checking back. Linda

WTG Jessica -- we're all so proud of you too!! Eva, FNSC sounded fun -- happy b-day to your DH! Lori safe driving to Denver and have a great time!! Exercised, cleaned and ate and now Aylah, Merry and I are going for our walk. It's chilly, but sunny. CBL Linda

Morning everyone! Had a busy day at work yesterday. Had my MRI in the morning - now girls this was a BIG deal for me as I'm very very very claustrophbic -- in the past always chose open MRIs. Well, here in our little town there's only the closed one and in order to get an open one would have to have waited too long -- my dr. is seeing me 3/25 -- and had to travel 70 miles and miss a lot more time from work (which I have to make up). So. . .I told myself I could do it -and I did. Had a little bit of a glich the first time she started to move me into the machine and had to have her bring me back out but I did it -- and I've proud of myself. It's good to face all our demons and get over some of our fears. They seem to make people to that on Biggest Loser so I'm trying to apply that to my life as well. Now that I've done it once and survived, I shouldn't have a problem with it in the future. Wonder how long Julie will be in the hospital -- anyone know? I hope this resolves all her issues, really praying for that outcome. Arlene, wtg on the walk. We had a lovely day here yesterday - got up to 61 and it felt so wonderful. I had to pick Aylaha up after work last night and she and i have big plans for a walk/bike ride later when the weather gets better. When I picked her up she was still in her pj's -- what a waste of our beautiful spring day. She definitely needs to get outside and get the "winter stink blown off her" as my grandma used to say. LOL. I looked ahead at a 10 day forecast and it appears (knocking on wood) that our winter is pretty much over. I sure hope. Can't wait to get the patio furniture back out and the swing set back in working order (took swings and slide down for winter). Just realized our camping trip will be in about 2-1/2 months -- can't wait - we always enjoy that. Talked to my DB on his birthday. He's still on oxygen but says he's starting to feel better. His wife told me he's down to 117 oh my - in the pictures from the wedding last summer he was about 140 -- can't imagine how horribly thin he must look now as he looked pretty sickly then. Need to get to Ohio to see him this summer. Hoping the gas prices don't get too ridiculous. Janet, you weren't at all preachy - I worry about that too - just trying to help the others here who are newer from experimenting from things that don't work to save them the time and energy. Phyl, wtg on the loss -- it seems when we least expect to lose, that's when we do -- good going. Your jewelry on FB is so pretty. Is Zoey going to Janet's too? Melissa, hope you're doing good today -- have you been working pretty regularly? Have you heard from your friend's boss yet -- I think you sent a resume recently? Hope that works out for you but if not, Sam's should have some other openings soon so hang in there -- maybe an office job will open up -- it's tough right now so any job is better than none. Cheri is right that this is a disease -- but in your situation with your diabetes you got a double whammy going -- your diabetes can be so debilitating. Just like my step daughter being so sick all of the time -- part of it is caused by her diabetes - the other by her other disease -- drug abuse -- between the two of them she probably won't live to be very old. I know it's hard but you really need to make those good choices. How did it go with the counselor on Tuesday? Was it this past Tues. or next week? I hope you can continue to go and get some good help. My sessions last winter with the counselor helped me so much in dealing with my situation here with my step kids. Even though I only went a few times, she gave me some very good coping skills. We love you and want to get back on track so you can feel good both physically and mentally again. Laura,wtg on your food. I seem to remember you guys are going to visit your DH's family this year -- are you still planning that trip? Haven't heard you talk about it for awhile. The earthquake and tsumamies were sooo terrible -- omg - the pictures are just so hard to see. Lori, sorry about your drama at the hospital -- again, no one seems to ever take responsibility for making mistakes -- my DH and I comment on that all the time. They seem especially bad about it in the medical services area. We've had a lot of problems with that too -- they refuse to say "it's my fault, please forgive me for making a mistake" -- it's almost ridiculous. I have to tell you that in our company if we make a mistake, we own up to it witih our customers - I tell them, "it was our mistake, that shouldn't have happened and I'm very sorry it did." Sometimes they are upset -- but usually are forgiving when they realize it was "human" error. We don't do it often, but when we do we do own up to it and I think everyone should and it's so frustrating when they don't. Instead of treating you that way the girl who made the mistake should have called the hospital you were at and begged the tech to work you in quickly because it was HER mistake -- if she'd done that it might have turned out better -- they certainly treated you like you were the person who erred -- which isn't fair. My local hospital always sends out a survey card after each visit to get an assessment of our experience -- since they started doing that I've noticed they treat the patients much better. Enjoy that baby this week -- the lighted bed will do the trick -- my step son had to have that when he was a baby (I wasn't around but heard about it). Hope your neck problems can be easily resolved. Well, I can't remember what anyone else had to say -- love to all - I need to get busy here and get my exercise in and then Aylah and I will hit the road with the dog for a nice walk/bike ride. Not much else planned -- just relaxing and cleaning house. Cherei, hope the anniversary goes well, sounds like you have it well planned. I think this is the weekend for Dassi's bat mitzvah -- will have to check FB for the pics. I'm sure it will be great. Kristi, great weight loss - congratulations!!! Have a great weekend all!! Linda

Good Morning to all. I was so behind in reading that I ran out of time this morning to post. Finally finished reading just now. Everyone been busy. I had zumba last night and then came home and had to get some more tax stuff together for DH for the tax appt. today and then had to clean two containers of strawberries he bought on sale yesterday. Strawberries are very good this year so far. Then made my dinner and sat down and it was after 8 already when I finally got to eat. American Idol is just amazing this year - just love all the kids -- a few weren't as good but there's a bunch I'd hate to see go home too early. I think the girl Pia has a good shot at winning -- she is just so good -- also the guy who sang Joe Cocker -- Casey -- oh and the guy who did the Paul McCartner song -- OMG they were all three just amazing. I love all of them and any of them could win. I also love the 15 year old girl who did Smile. I thought they criticized her a little harshly - I liked it. She's so sweet. I didn't care for the guy who sounds like Rod Stewart -- I think Brad is his name. Sorry I don't know all the names yet, I'm trying. Steven Tyler continues to just crack me up. Love love love him as a judge. So glad to hear Julie is doing okay. I can't imagine what could cause that, but hope this will be the end of her problems. Thinking of you Julie! Now that she's learned how to eat and has done so well maintaining maybe she can continue her journey by just eating properly instead of having another procedure done. I think if I lost my band I would try that. But of course, I'm not faced with that so it's easy for me to say. We''ll be here to support Julie no matter what she decides. I just pray that this is what has been causing all her other problems. Lori, I can't remmber who your company was but now are you planning to go to Denver for the weekend? I'm sure it's hard to give you DD her space but I think she'll probably welcome some help by this time. Go and have fun!!! Enjoy that baby! Melissa, I'm so happy you are canceling your LB doctor appt. for Monday -- as you know, it's more in your head than a need for a fill (see below). Okay I need to chime in here too -- I have eaten both ways --being filled too tight and then eating sliders and carbs because that's what was EASY to eat and I never felt too tight when I ate that way -- and because I exercised religiously I didn't regain too much weight -- so I was lucky. Also during the whole first and second years I vastly reduced my fat intake and thought that was a good thing. But I was RAVENOUS between meals - I mean stomach growling LOUDLY and rolling and making noises, feeling kinda weak (because I wasn't eating enough protein) generally feeling really, really hungry. So I was supplementing my meals by eating snacks consisting of carbs (pretzels, 100 calorie pack snacks like party mix, rice krispie treats, rice cakes, popcorn, etc.) Again, after a short while after eating my snacks I would again become ravenous and miserable until I could eat again -- which I had to white knuckle it out to control it cause I really wanted food in my stomach. All the while I was too tight and kept thinking, I'll be okay when I lose 10 pounds - well I never lost those 10 pounds cause I couldn't eat the right way -- so I had my surgeon take out .500 so I could try to eat and then I discovered the 5 day pouch test and then a few months ago when I started to eat no carbs and all proteins and no snacking and and upped (way upped) the fats in my diet I started losing weight and don't have that ravenous feeling any more nor do I feel the need to snack between meals. You need the fats to satisfy your hunger -- you won't lose weight any more quickly by cutting them as I did -- I'm eating a lot of fat these days -- light salad dressings, hummus, real eggs, cooking things in olive oil, etc. I'm staying away from all carbs -- except for my tiny bit of fruit and yogurt in the morning. And believe it or not, I'm not hungry -- I truly get full and stay full until my next meal -- yes, I start feeling hungry before I eat but I feel no need to have a snack like I did before. So if you are hungry try eating more protein and increasing your fats -- especially if you think by decreasing your fats will help you lose faster - I don't think it will -- it just seems to make you hungrier. Just try it and see if it helps before you run and get another fill. I think people are experiencing too many problems by getting filled too tight. One of the girls here at work was so tight she couldn't even drink properly - and she goes to my surgeon - she was throwing up all year and yes, she lost a lot of weight -- but she started to get kidney stones cause she wasn't drinking hardly at all -- ended up getting her band removed last month and guess what - she's gaining weight cause she never learned how to eat or deal with her food addiction. We need to face it, head on, not try to just say, oh well, I'll get so full I won't be able to eat or drink -- that's not what it's designed for. Okay, getting off the soap box now. Just hoping my past mistakes will help someone who's struggling now. Apples, I agree, we all need that light bulb moment and unless we have it, we aren't going to change our eating or our lifestyle. One such moment we each have to face is that we are never ever ever going to be able to eat as we did before -- we were OBESE when we ate that way -- there's no way we can go back to those old eating habits. I lost 100 pounds back in the late 80s early 90s and kept it off for almost 5 years -- I was single, exercised all the time, lived alone and didn't have too cook for anyone - I'd occasionally over indulge but was able to keep it in check. Well then I met my now DH and after his kids moved in, we had less money, I gave up the gym (no money and no time) and ate what the family ate -- and gee, soon I was back in those 100 pounds. As I recall, it ddn't take very long. I thought I had it figured out -- well no, we can't ever ever go back to the "good old days" -- we must accept that. One day a week or a treat here and there yes, but not full fledge eat whatever we want, whenever we want it days. So that's an "aha moment" you need to face either now or when your done with the losing phase. Arlene, wtg on getting your face done -- I'm soooo jealous --would love to see a before/after pic side by side. Gotta get back to work, have been writing this all morning. CBL - Linda

Yes, Janet, I agree with LauraK, but it's always nice to HEAR it -- good for you!!!

Thinking of you Julie and praying all is going well and this will help resolve most of your problems. Linda

Morning to all. It's 36 and raining here -I'm just sooo happy it's rain and not snow as it is snow north of us. Sorry Apples, I'm sure you are getting snow. Ended up working an hour late last night - I had time to make up from doctor's appt. Monday and they were short handed and super busy on the ngiht shift, so stayed and helped. Also worked through lunch so I had a long day. Watched Biggest Loser though -- Lori it's starting to get better I think. For awhile it was kinda boring. It seems to help me stay on track. OMG the food at the office yesterday was out of control! In order to just go to the bathroom I ihad to walk past two department's buffets -- there are two ways to the bathroom and no matter which way I went I was confronted with food and of course everyone was saying, EAT EAT EAT! LOL. I didn't -- although someone brought these evil custard filled doughnuts from the Dutch bakery and all day they were calling my name but I did not give in -- just kept on walking by. In my head I go back to standing on the elleptical and remembering how hard I have to work to burn a couple hundred calories and then I quickly compute how many calories are in that food and that helps me walk away. Seriously, maybe I'm just addicted to losing weight -- but I know I do not want to start gaining again as I've been there and done that and it's just way to easy. Apples, sorry things are still tough with your life -- so happy you got that break for a couple of months. Happy too that the lake is only 5 weeks away. Janet, I have a similar closet and I have clothes in the guest room too. I also have three huge drawers full and I think 6 smaller drawers full of stuff (shorts, t-shirts, bathing suits,nighties, etc.) I could probably go at least 3 weeks and not wear the same pants and probably at least two months of not wearing the same outfit. But when something is on sale how can we walk away - -i mean $2.30 jeans? I can't walk away -- it's too good of a deal - it's cheaper than goodwill for heavens sake! So maybe say you're not gonna shop unless it's a super duper deal. But I have faith you can make it during Lent. I'm not catholic so I never do lent either. I had a good friend who used to give up sex for Lent every year. LOL. Her DH wasn't too happy with that. Cheri, your DD's friend did a wonderful job -- a nice message for your DD. Have you ever read any Janet Evanovich? She writes humorous crime novels -- really laugh out loud stuff and easy to read -- I recommend any of her books for your dear daughter during chemo -- some of her books are numbered -- One for the Money is the first one, Two for the whatever, etc. I think she's up to 16 now. Arlene, glad you had a nice b-day -- sorry about that wax -- I hope you did not pay her for the waxing. Hope you heal up quickly. I've very fortunate that i've never had to wax my face -- or worry about hair on my face. No, they keep telling my brother no cancer -but I was worried cause my best friend who died two years ago was told that too and then when they did do the surgery to scrape the lung they found out it was cancer. Sounds like my brother will be okay. He also has heart problems so at least for this moment, he's doing okay. Another reason I need to go back to Ohio this year for a visit. Have been bad about doing that. Gotta run and get ready for work -- took me awhile to read and catch up. Melissa, so happy you have an appt. with your shrink -- as Janet says, we're more worried about your diabetes than your weight loss -- you need to figure out a way to get and stay healthy -- yes, we know it's hard -- but you need to do all you can to be here for your son -- you want to hold your grandbabies some day too. CBL Linda

Good good morning to all. First of all, before I forget, Happy Birthday Arlene -- may be 60s be even more fun than the 50s. Joyce I must have missed a post about you hurting your arm -- sorry to hear you've been down and out with that, sounds very painful. Lori, so happy things went well with little Katelyn -- sounds like she's going to be a very good baby - my DS was like that -- slept well right from the beginning. I think it's great she had an easy labor - less trauma for the baby as well. So happy her DMIL stayed away and is behaving a bit -- maybe her son had a good talk with her. Julie, hope all is well - thinking of you and praying they will take good care of you. Cheri, again, I have little to add except I pray for your daughter. My friends who've had cancer all cut their hair first -- to avoid the expierience of the hair coming out in clumps. I think I would do that too if I had to go through chemo. Good news on my brother - they found some mysterious infection hiding in his lung - so no surgery -- can cure it with IV antibiotic and he'll go home today with that and a little machine that will suction out his lung -- thorugh a drain. So he'll be home for his b-day on Friday -- he's been in for over 2 weeks now. Poor guy. They had done an exploratory type surgery last week and biopsied some of his lung - that's how they found this weird (their words) bacteria. I had my appt with my ortho surgeon on a follow up on my hip nad to check out my shoulder problem -- took lots of x-rays and then sent me back for more x-rays - not my shoulder -- have neck problems --he's referring me to an ortho surgeon who specializes in necks -- in fact he said it's the doctor who did neck surgery on him. I'm not surprised as I've had problems witih neck all wunter -- but on right side and shoulder pain has been on left - so to me that's weird. But also getting numbness nad tingling down my arms and a weird thing with my neck and swalling -- feels like my neck is out of place--- that's been going on for several years now. I just don't want any more surgery -- maybe I can get that new procedure where they inject gel in between the disks. Anyone here eve rhave a neck fusion? My back fusion went wrong so I'm not really happy about having a neck fusion. Other than that, I'm doing fine. Went to zumba last night and did 20 mins. on elleptical afterwards and then weigihts. Have a great day all. Linda

Janet, The dentist thought I had a small cavity under the gum line but when he cut the gum to fix it discovered I had bone disease and he scraped the bone -not very pleasant and not what I had planned for the weekend for sure. They said it didn't show up on x-rays - kind of a weird thing. It hurt like heck on Sat. but better today TG. He was cute when I asked "what caused this" he stammered a bit and then said, "well, it happens as we get older". Lol. He's maybe 30 if even that old. LOL it was cute as he didn't want to call me old. It's hell getting old. Linda

Good morning to all. Had a busier weekend than I imagined, but happy with it -- went to Sam's on Sat. and then yesterday was SS"s birthday dinner -- went well. The cake was quite good - i did have tiny piece, very rich. Julie, I am very concerned and hope all goes well today. I somehow missed the e-mail about your going in the hospital. Will be thinking of you today. Meredith, hope you feel better today and don't get any sicker -- I've been lucky and haven't really had much this winter. Yes, you've come to the same conclusion I have -- Protein and no carbs and maybe one day a week for treats -- it seems to work for me. I've been maintaining at 138 now for several weeks -- would like to see the scale move a bit but won't complain as long as I can maintain. I checked my fill records -- I'm at 5.75 -- I was at 6.25 last year when I was too tight and they took .500 out. I'm fine here -- dont' want/need any more -- in fact I had a couple of stuck episodes last week where I slimed -- need to chew chew chew. I see my ortho surgeon for follow up on my hip and he's also going to look at my shoulder and see what is going on with that. Hope it's nothing serious -- but it's been bugging me for months and months. Phyl, I'm with you -- I'd want that surgery done asap too -- why not have the doctor in So. Cal do it instead of waiting to go home? Since you've lost all that weight and exercise I'm sure you're in good shape for surgery -- that's why I was able to get my hip done so quickly -- another NSV. If I need something done to this shoulder I'll want it done right away too - no sense putting it off in my opinion. Saw some pics on FB that Jodi has been posting -- looks like the girls are having a blast at the bat mitzvuhs. I think Dassi's is next weekend - I know it's soon. Need to call and check on my brother -- haven't heard any more -- last i heard they weren't going to do the surgery but seeing if the lung will stabilze and not fill back up again. He's at a great hospital so I feel confident in whatever they decide to do. His son is a student there so I know he's getting the best of the best of care. My little dental surgery caused me some pain over the weekend -- hope nothing is wrong -- just really sore all weekend but seemed to be a bit better yesterday/last night -- so I think I'm healing. The stitches are still in place so that's good. Well, it's Monday -- have a good day and week every one. Lori, so happy that Katelyn is healthy and going home -- she'll get the hang of breast feeding - it's always a struggle at first -- they'll both get it - they have lots of support and help these days and it's so good for the baby. I'm sure you'll be going ot Denver a lot more now. CBL Love to all. Linda