Mrs. Bubba

Hi girls, I had my trip to Bismarck today to PT and Chiropractor.. The doc where I get PT is filing an appeal now to get the MRI... Now that they have documentation of my therapy there.. The therapists were instructed to document EVERYTHING.... And I wrote a personal letter of appeal telling my woeful tales of pain and sleepless night... Doc thought it might help so I was happy to write it... We'll see what happens now... Melissa, setting your alarm to remind you to take a break is a good idea.. You need a little sustinance while working that hard... glad you like your new job.. Linda and Janet, I'm a tv girl, too.... I tape things if they are new unseen shows... and of course I have Young and the Restless set to record everyday so I don't miss it.. Usually watch it before I go to sleep and if my pills make me fall asleep while it is till on I still can watch it later..... But I'm not into reality shows... Don't do Idol or Survivor... I like crime dramas......NCIS, CSI, Bones, Good Wife.... that kind... or we watch lots of the 48 Hours type shows.... OK Judy, I'm jealous..... I want an MRI..... but I'm glad you get one so you can handle this before it gets out of hand.. Pain is no fun and I'm happy for you... Gotta be in good shape to find the DL!!!!! Lori, glad you had a good time in Vegas.... I sure couldn't have done that walking...WTG..... The trip home sucks, but I guess you are used to it when you do like you do..... Jessica, thanks for the nice words... I just get a bit down when my pain is bad... As for play groups.... not a lot of those around here....this is a small town... 1500 or so... Most of the kids her age are up at the daycare where my DD works.. So she has been there the last 2 days... DD said today Mimi was naughty to a smaller girl.... Mimi needs to go more often so she learns how to get along with others.... Arlene, you take care.... don't let that snow get the best of you..... stay warm.... Well, I'm off to my bath.... It helps relax me before bed and then I take my pills in hopes I can fall asleep without the pain getting so bad... Lots to do tomorrow so I need to sleep... I did have a nap after I got home today... Night now ladies... Sweet dreams... Julie

Morning, Joyce, so glad you're home and doing okay.. The first days are confusing.. You don't know what to expect really. Some sail through it and others have troubles. Just remember we are here if you have questions... Hope you have a good day... Congrats, you're on the other side now...... Laura, ick, that must have been awful for you.. What brought that on do you suppose? The first bite did you in and then upset the apple cart, so to speak...... Hope today is a better day. Janet, hugs on the nephew's issues.. It's hard to watch an overweight person struggle now when we know what the back could do to help... I have a brother and his wife that struggle and I suggested they look into the band, but don't think they listened... Brother can lose weight (lucky man!), but his wife gets very upset when he does and she can't... Almost caused a divorce once... Matching bands could be a big blessing... but their decision.... I have a long day with doctors again today... and have some errands to run to get ready for my events this week... Suppose I'll feel like sh## tonight... But it must be done... I didn't sleep to badly last night, but woke up with the same pain and headache..... Something is wrong..... I also feel like I have a big lump of something in my stomach.... don't know what that is except I started taking the Cymbalta again on Sunday night.... Melissa, hope you are doing better.... Apples, is out having fun with her baby boy..... Judy is studying her lines...... And I'll bet the rest of you are busy doing something... Hope you all have a wonderful and productive day...... Hugs and prayers............ Julie

Judy, I'm so disappointed..... I was so looking forward to being bridesmaid!!!! Hope you had fun anyway.... glad the scale moved for you.... It's a good feeling... You'll be back to goal before you know it.... Linda, I used to be a caterer... along with the restaurant I owned and operated... I've done a lot of it and don't miss it too much... I love to cook, too, and still get my fix when there are church events and such.. Like Wednesday night I have to do a light supper for 50 before Lenten Service... Just sloppy joes and chips and bars.... Others help, but I'm in charge... Then I'm doing a baby shower on Saturday for my great nephew... Just cake and coffe for the most part as it is an open house... Not a big deal.... But I would never want to go back to doing for a job again... It's hard work.... We are getting our Mimi a swing set for her birthday in April, too.... Where did you find yours???? We haven't started looking yet.... Gosh, Eva, sorry you have pain now, too.... What the heck, is this crap catching????? If so, I'm very sorry, I must have started it..... or gave it to everybody in FL... I don't wish this pain on my worst enemy..... I've been alone most of the day... DD took Mimi to work with her this morning.. I have been very lazy and done not much of anything... drifiting on and off to sleep.. DH came home about 1:30 as the elevator was full so no more grain hauling today or tomorrow... Now he is just putzing around here and I'm still lazy... Just don't feel good.... I ate fish for lunch and it's sitting like a lump in my stomach making me feel rather ill.... My shoulder hurts, my neck hurts, I feel a bit dizzy , so I'm just a barrel of fun here...... I did call the insurance company this morning again and got yet another run around... You just have to file an appeal.... follow the instructions on the letter you got..!!!!!!! Do they know how damned disgusting they are??? I made a few other calls and have some things lined up for tomorrow so we can make some decisions.... Something just has to give soon.... I should try to do something constructive, but don't know what that will be... My laundry is all done and I don't want to clean house... Don't have to cook as there are leftovers for supper... Just sit here and feel sorry for myself I guess.... Aren't I just a downer.... I better go now before I mess you all up.......... Hope the rest of you are having a great day.... Is there still sun down there in Florida, girls?????? Oh, yeah, Judy, I caught that a "by the pool" line... rub it in why don't you???? Bye girls.... TTYL.............. Julie

Laura K, to e-mail or PM someone just click on their name above the avatar and it will give up a choice of what you want to do.... it's easy, but you have to know where it is.... There are so many things I don't know about this site yet.. I heard the girls talking about all sorts of things while we were in FL and I was just lost.. Not a big computer whiz here!!! Julie

Hey gang, just got up from another nap... I take pills and then I sleep for a while and then I get up for awhile... Anyway, I'm about winding up the info on those who wanted to be on a personal information list I am compiling.... If anyone else still wants on just PM or e-mail me your infor sometime in the next couple days... Otherwise I'll send it out this way to those on the list.... Laura K, wtg on the bargain..... I wish you a DL, too, just like Judy!!!!! Joyce, thanks for the input.... I've been trying everything.. Was wondering today if I need to consult a neurosurgeon...... It's my neck that is the problem and yes, I sleep in my recliner all the time... not every night, but lots especially when I'm hurting... Melissa, how is the new job going??? Are you stressing and that is making your band tight?? Hope you are doing better with the food thing soon.... You'll get back on track..... don't try to do too much at once... Well, back to DH... he wants me to sit and watch TV with him.... Julie

Joyce, good luck tomorrow... You'll soon be on your way.... Sounds like you, too, have a peach of a husband... There are a number of us married ones on this site that have the best husbands and we are lucky enough to really realize it.... It's wonderfull... wouldn't trade mine for anything... Even when he leaves his dirty socks all over the house!!! We'll be thinking of you...... take care... Laura, your birthday sounds wonderful, even if it was different than planned..... I can see you smiling through it all.... Hope Nael is better very soon.... Cheri, you, too, found a way to enjoy your day even though DH wasn't up to it... Good for you and good for GD...... I like to dance, but I would be the one sitting out all those dances you mentioned!!!! Wouldn't want to make a spectacle of my fat self!! Maybe I'll have to change that attitude pretty soon.... glad you had fun. Eva, San Diego for an evening with renewed family sounds like a great way to spend time... Hope you have fun.... Phyll, so glad you are better... sounds like you had a fun weekend.. Jessica, I think you're on the right track... Unfortunately the honeymoon period may be coming to a close for you.... At first it seems like the weight melts off without much effort... then your body starts adjusting and you have to start working harder for the results... You will be fine... I've never had this greek yogurt either, but I don't like regular yogurt either... I can eat a Yoplait Whips, but that's about it..... Apples, your party sounds fun and the food great as always... I'm glad you are getting a littel warm weather before you have to head home again to the real world.... Snow and more snow here!!!! Janet, hugs on the Ipod..... It's hard to think that someone you love would take from you.... If they had asked you probably would have given it to them... Now that little memory will remain instead... Glad you got a new one and are able to move one..... Yep, us girls beat the guys at cards again last night... But it was one of those games where you had to struggle through it... No one was getting good hands... We got lucky..... Well, sorry to have to report that I've had a relapse... I was feeling so hopeful because I hadn't had any bad episodes for almost 2 weeks, but now the pain is back with a vengence.... My whole spine area hurts and I feel sickly.... dizzy, headache, some nausea........ All indications that the flow of oxygen to my brain is impaired a little... I need that MRI so bad.... I don't sleep well at all..... And I did so well while in FL.... I feel like I have a giant hangover... My lower back hurts so much that I'm walking hunched over... Just had to call DD to say I don't think I can handle Mimi for a couple days and DH is working this week... It's not a big problem as she can take her with to work at the daycare, but I feel like I'm letting her down.. Don't know what else to do... So, my plan is to call insurance in the morning and scream, holler, cry, plead or do whatever to get them to listen to me.... I have PT on Tuesday again and will also schedule acupuncture and accupressure for that day, too.... I'm surviving on pain pills, ice packs, heating pads and the like....... I haven't had to cry yet, but I was close about 2:00 this morning... Crawled in the shower and washed my hair and got ready for church... managed to sleep in my chair a bit after that... Went to church and came home and slept for awhile.... Managed to do my supper dishes from last night... I just haven't perked up at all today.. Usually the daytime is better and nighttime is bad... So, anyway......................DAMN!!!! I'm so tired of this... Wish I could just go have the dang test without insurance, but this just isn't a good time for that financially either... Just paid all our dang property taxes and we had a big increase this year... And there is just no reason that insurance shouldn't help me.... Sorry for the rant.... I'm sure you are getting as tired of hearing it as I am of living it...... Time to go hit the heating pad again... and take some pills..... Going for Tylenol this time... OHHHH, Judy, how was the singles dance??? Any goodlooking single guys out there???? Hope you all have a good rest of this Sunday.... Hugs to all.... Julie

Judy, I got it...... I know how your mind works!!! You go girl..... I used to do singles dances back before Lowell... We were actually set up to meet each other at one, but he bolted....... I met someone else..... Sandy, WTG on the shopping.... I'm still waiting for those sizes, but that will come... Have fun..... Phyll, get better soon.. Laura, have fun on your birthday date with the boys.... Apples, no mixer is a bummer.......... I hardly know what to do without mine anymore.... have fun.. Eva, good going on the bonus.... every little thing helps... especially with those little projects we want to get done... I have a couple on my list, too... We have a nice tax refund coming soon.... Well, DH is having a fit... Mimi wants to go outside and has her coat on, but it's snowing and he doesn't want to ... I have to go referee.... Everyone have a great evening... I plan to kick but in pinochle tonight!!!! Hugs to all....... Julie

Arlene just told me that she couldn't e-mail me through the site.... I didn't change anything, but it was changed alright.. I had to re-check the box that says I accept e-mails.... So, I should be good to go again in case anyone wants to e-mail me that way... Sorry, Arlene, and thanks for telling me... Julie

Happy Birthday, Laura............. hope you and the boys can enjoy the day..... Happy anniversary, Cheri,............... How many is that for you... My DH and I have #15 coming up in May..... I had a miserable night.... up and down, taking pills, sitting by the computer...........whatever helps take my mind off the pain... It sucks!!!! Hoping for a better day.. I will finish up laundry I started yesterday and hopefully get a little light housekeeping done... Can write your name in all my dust..... Have a great one gals... Hugs to all............ Julie

Hi there, I'm feeling like I'm slipping up on the job and not responding to posts the way I should the last couple days.. I'm not feeling well either, but it's my neck..... Actually had to call DD this morning and say I needed to get a treatment so couldn't have Mimi... DH is working now, so she just said she would take her to work... It worked out fine... Came home and Mimi was asleep so just left her there... I came home to nap and try to get better... I was up last night paying bills at 3 - 4 in the morning.... No interruptions at least!!! So, sorry I'm missing stuff... I hate that...but it can't be helped... Laura, great picuters... That smile of yours always shines through..... And HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU TOMORROW!!!!!!! Hope you can have a wonderful day with good things for yourself.... Great, good job on the shopping... I love little surprises like that.... You don't have to feel so guilty about things... I pick things up often and save them for something that will come up later.... As long as I can remember where I put things we're good to go!!!!! Linda, hugs on the DH snoring.... Mine doesn't and I was the one who did occassionally, but he says I don't anymore since losing weight... that's great for both of us.. However, he's a soldier and they learn to sleep through most anything so it never bothered him... I still feel like I have a hangover and am also having a hot flash now... Never had those during menopause, but for some reason I am today... Maybe I have a bit of a fever.... Anyway, time to get supper.... You all take care........ Julie

Hi everybody, it's my first chance today to sit down and read or post... It hasn't been a great day for me... don't feel just right either... I think maybe I'm just very tired.... The past 2 nights have been little sleep with the shoulder pain... then had to be up and out early for appts in Bismarck... I can home today and crashed.. Thankfully Mimi was ready for a nap, so we did that together today.... When DH came home he wanted the hot-tub, so had a little soak and now just finished supper.. I expect to crash and burn early tonight.. Bro has left for SD and nothing on the agenda for tomorrow, so I'm hoping to perk up some.. Laura, hope Nael and you will be back up on top of your game soon.. Sorry you have to miss your trip, but it wouldn't be good to take something to them... Nels is over it now??? Yes, DD has the Nemo movie, so we're good...... Apples, a very sad experience... I had a similar one, but I drove up to a house and found a dear friend on the ground, alive, but barely... got the ambulance but just knew he wouldn't make it... Brain dead from a massive stroke.... It haunted me for some time... and had to keep reliving it for the family... They asked me over and over if he suffered... Hope you are okay..... Judy, I get that pain stuff..... not fun is it???? Hope you are better soon... heat and cold, off and on, is a good thing to try... Good luck..... Well, I'm crashing by the computer so better sign off for tonight... Will be back when I can hold my head up again..... :confused: Night all............. Julie

Hi everyboduy.... It's been a busy day, no time to post... Then I fell asleep early in my chair and made myself go to bed.... Now I'm awake with pain in my shoulder again... Thought I would take time to answer a few posts while I wait for pain pill to kick in.... Jodi, waiting is so tough.... When we finally get our head ready we want things to happen now!!!! It'll come and soon you will be a real band sister.... On the Medusa costume, I'd take a clear shower cap and sew on a bunch of gummie worms..... Did something similar once for my daughter.... It was fun... Good luck Ezzie, welcome..... I'm so glad to have had my surgery.. I have a long history, but back and forth is the short version... I started at 387 and have lost 110 pounds.. have a long way to go, but I've done great!!(Did you hear that Janet!!!?) Medical problems have had me on maintenance for almost 10 months now and I'm proud to have been able to not gain and actually lose a pound here and there... It is finally time to restart my losing and I'm struggling to find my way, but I will.... Good luck to you... Jessica, I understand about forgetting to take pills ... I have actually taken myself off Cymbalta recently, but my doc had said it was okay to try... If I start feeling funny I can start again.. The fact that you recognize what is going on is wonderful... You have a handle on things and will do what you have to do to stay moving forward instead of slipping back.... And my goodness, have you become the inspiring poster.. I love how much you have changed and how well you are doing... I'm so proud.... Keep it up...... aqt/Dawn, I think you need a fill and you need to learn to relax a bit... Don't stress things so much.. This is a lifetime thing now and you have to find your groove.. You will and it will be great.... Laura, no biggie on those invitations.. All those mothers will totally understand a misprint..... I'm sure the party will be awesome... How did Nelson do in school today? Lori, the wedding meal sounds very nice. and don't you worry about those 1.5 pounds... You'll get them before they get you!!! That beautiful dress is incentive enough... You'll be the hottest mother-of-the-bride ever!!! How's your knee today..?? My shoulder is bugging me again.. I have PT tomorrow..... I know part of my problem is that I haven't sat still since I got home from FL and I'm overtired and not taking care of myself like I should... That ends today.... New me tomorrow.... Joyce, I'm so glad you joined us... hope you find everything you need here... it's a great place.. Yes, Phyll, I got your info and will get working on it soon.... Sandy, running, not for me... I have to conquer walking first... But I'm glad for you... just go slow.... You can hurt yourself if you don't do it right... Laura K, you be careful if you try to run much... It's an activity for the already strong people......in my opinion.... Crzytchr, I'm with you... I could possibly run if my life or one of my family's lives depended on it, otherwise, not for me.... Arlene, I hear you are struggling.... the journaling is a good thing for lots .. I'm glad you are able to do it.. You'll have things under control before you know it... I'm sure you can do this.... Keep the faith.. Eva, so glad you are home safe.. My back acted up on the way home too... The last leg from Mpls to Bismarck had me squirming terribly... Now I'm fighting with my lower back.. Had a treatment today...Hopefully that and some less stressful days will get things back in order for me... Well, gang, I attended Ash Wednesday services tonight and have ashed on my forehead to prove it... The pastor chose just the right texts and I found what I was looking for in way of motivation and inspiration for a Lenten committment... So, as you are my witnesses, I'm giving up bread for Lent... I am allowing myself crackers (love the Special K ones I stumbled on in FL) and an occasional Thin Bun.... but otherwise no bread.. Also plan to foce myself into regular walking with my tape at least 3 times a week... And just generally trying to work the band the way it is suggested by most docs.... Lots of protein and more fluids... I have a problem getting enough fluids... So I will work on that... 40 days isn't a long time.... Easter should bring with it a nice loss I'm thinking, if everything goes according to plan... At a meeting tonight after church I became the Vice President of our Parish Council and also more than likely the new Parish Treasurer.... I'm a retired accountant so paperwork is a snap for me.. The present treasurer has been for decades and wants to step down.. Said I will if he choses to do that... More work, still no pay... Anyway, This adds to my activities.... some days that's okay and some days it's a chore.. But I will do it and be fine... DH just shook his head.... Well so far my shoulder isn't letting up yet... I don't like this.... I'm so tired for late nights and too much pain recently... I need to sleep... PT again tomorrow in Bismarck and then Mimi until 6 again... She has the sniffles and DD is getting it too.... I know Janet is busy with things, but I didn't see Apples today... Are you okay there, hon????!!!! You DH is gone so you and Tanker are behaving I hope... Check in soon so I don't have to start worrying..... Goodnight girls... Hugs and prayers for all.....Julie

Phyll, great news all around... Hope your GS will be lots better and get his life off to a better road... And WTG on being at an all time low.... That is about 4 pounds away for me as far as a low I haven't been at in 25 years.... Can hardly wait to be in uncharted waters.... Good for you... Laura, funny story....... you just know how to handle people.... Hope he is well enough for school tomorrow.. and WTG on your loss too... can't remember if I told you that before or not.... Lori, I'm so tired, too... as you know I didn't sleep well last night either.. I did get a little nap while Mimi was down today... Now I'm waiting for my brother to show.. He is here on business and seeing clients in the area.. He is a seed salesman for a big company from SD.... Apples, do you need any good corn seed???? Judy, I just finished my unpacking a bit ago... To much else going on to get to it until this evening... laundry will have to wait till tomorrow or so... I have to go to Bismarck with DD and Mimi in the morning... then again for PT on Thurs..... DH has to work tomorrow hauling grain, too, so life is going back to normal..... Weren't we just all so excited about our trip and now things are back to the same old same old!!! Except Apples out there all snuggled with her puppy..... I've heard from a couple who want to add their personal infor to our list.... Any others who are interested should PM or e-mail me asap and I will get on it..... Hopefully this weekend sometime... Well, time for bed.... I'm thinking I missed some important things to comment on but just can't seem to remember..... I'm proud of you all.... so keep up the good work.... On to tomorrow!!!!!! Good night....... Julie

Linda, I was posting when you were.......Congrats on the loss..... Whewwwwwwwwwwwwwww!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'll bet you are so glad that wait (weight, too) is over.... I hope to follow in your footsteps soon........ WTG....:biggrin:

Hello dear ones, I'm just back from Bismarck for PT.. DH had done some shopping while he was waiting for my flight on Sunday and wanted me to see, so we went early to go to Lowe's... Spent $500 on lawn and yard things!!!!! Big sale.... We are planning to bust out a door from our bedroom on the back side of our house and put a patio...not large, but enough so I can sit and watach Mimi play in our very large bag yard... We got a square table with 4 mesh type chairs so I don't have to haul cushions around, and a 10 x10 gazzebo type thing for shade... and then a few yard ornaments... Was fun.. I like just what he picked out... Stopped at Walmart for a few supplies and then home to pick up Mimi... she is now asleep while watching Little Bear, so I know she is tired... no nap yesterday... I may join her when I'm finished here... My brother from SD came last night unexpectedly.. He has business here and will camp out a few nights.. Stayed up rather late talking to him.... Phyll, I'm so sorry to hear of problems with your GS... Yes, one just wants to shake that mother..... Good luck and hope you are feeling better real soon. Laura, that poor boy.... hope the fever breaks for good soon.... WTG with breaking 225......... Love to be where you are, but I guess I'm going to say, "I'll get there, too, eventually!" Mimi loved her turtle and takes him everywhere now... Squirt and Caillou..... Jessica, feel better..... Wow, you are really speading your wings to help the boss and dad.... Good for you and them... Keep up the good work... Arlene, yup, Janet gave me the pep talk, too.... We need to listen to her... She knows... and she cares!!!! Eva, so glad you and DH are having a good time.. Safe journey now and we'll talk to you when you get home... Apples, I'm not surprised to know you made good use of the supplies... I'm so glad... thanks again for having it there for us... it was wonderful.... no unhealthy temptations... Enjoy your 2 days of solitude, you and Tanker... I hear you about the farm equipment... DH and his buddy spent last night trying to figure out how to get his wife and I to want to go on an excursion just about like that... We're not to excited!!!! Rather stay home with that solitude like you are now... Janet, are you back in the swing at work??? Hope your sis is better soon.... Laura K, so glad your dog is better.... Judy, whatcha doing?????? I'm gonna take nap..... Hey girls, new subject............. Tomorrow is Ash Wednesday for lots of us.... Do you do the giving up thing for Lent...??? I do sometimes and not others.. Depends on how much willpower I think I have at the time... I'm thinking with my newly encouraged attitude I'm going to try to give up bread until Easter... Not crackers, but just really white bread as that is my biggest problem... I made homemade white bread for supper last night and have one small loaf left.. Thank goodness DB is here so I can make sure he gets his fill of it... Less to tempt me.... I have till tomorrow night at 7:00 to decide for sure, but I'm leaning that way.. I can do that for 7 weeks, don't you think... and it should really promote a reasonable loss by Easter, too... Let's say 10 pounds.... What do you think, sisters???? Gotta go catch a nap when I can... Love to all.... Julie

Evening everyone, My last guest left a bit ago so will take few minutes to post... It is DH's birthday so had some friends, my mother, DD and Mimi for supper.... All went very well and my kitchen is a mess, but it will still be there tomorrow... I'm exhausted now... too tired to do much more tonight.... Had Mimi for 8 hours today while doing all my meal preparations and she decided not to nap today.... Made for a long day... Have to be in Bismarck early for PT in the morning, but will be home by around noon to pick Mimi up.. She will go to work with DD for a couple hours.. Since she works at a daycare this is pretty easy... No charge as long as it is random and not all the time... So, hope you all have a restful night..... Eva, hope you and DH are still enjoying your vacation.. Home tomorrw I believe... Safe journey now!!! Nightie night friends............... Julie

Morning girls, I slept so well last night.....it was good to be home...But I slept very well in FL, too..... so this is all good for me..... Now, settle in, get a cup of somthing good, because I've got lots to say and it might take me awhile (sorry). Hope you won't mind.... So here goes: ARLENE sorry you are aching and that the pouch test didin't work for you... I have a hard time with it, too. LAURA K, how is Isaac doing? It's so hard to watch an animal suffer.. Hope things turn for the better soon. JOYCE, welcome to you... I'm so looking forward to getting to know you.. This is just a wonderful place,as you've probably already figured out.... glad you are here with us... CHERI, congrats on leaving the Skittles and other sweets alone... Now that you are at goal, it is your new project to learn maintenance and after visiting with Karen and Janet this weekend we know it isn't an easy thing, so good luck to you as you find your way... JODI, congrats on the clearance from your sleep study and on having a surgery date..... I've got my fingers crossed that someone cancels and you can get this over with early.. CINDY, I think I remember you from somewhter because of your avatar name..... welcome to our little group... Congrats to you on your loss. WTG PHYLL, so glad you are enjoying your visit with your children and granddchildren.... They are such wonderful life blessings.... DEB, Hope that fill does great things for you.... and ^ pounds gone forever, YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! SANDY, Onederland and a birthday... How absolutely appropriate to have them on the same day... Congratulations... I'm so happy for you... Welcome to our band of sisters.... MEREDITH, Congrats on the new house.... Your fun is just beginning... Hope this means that once you are moved and a bit more settled you will be back posting with us regularly again.. We miss you... MELLISSA, How are things going with the vehicle problems? Did you decide to repair or purchase a different one???? LINDA, just what are spring rolls?? are they those little white balls in a chinese restaurant???? I've never tried one... I'm not much for chinese food....... So agree about the counting your blessings idea... I try to do that often, as I have so many and sometimes tend to forget.... LORI, you already are a lapsister....... don't you know.... Just like Apples said..... already know and love you, meeting face to face was just the icing on the cake, so to speak!!!! We'll get there, too, one day soon. I totally understand your vent session... been in those moods myself with everything that seems to come down around my ears some days.. Glad to hear things about DD's wedding are coming together and the event will take place with the pastor's approval.....Now, about shopping.......... I bought a long-sleeped T at Eddie Bauer (never been in that store before cuz I thought it was just for skinning people....) I tried on a couple things at that New York something place that Apples likes, but no go for me... Looked at earrings at your Ann Taylor place... And although I was always the one bringing up the rear I managed to keep up with the girls through the shopping experiece... NO Coach purses for this girls.. Just not my thing... But you would have been proud of me..... Now, on to the Florida girls: Judy, I just loved your sense humor, thus my constant giggling.............. and, to defend myself about my ability to fall asleep fast......... I TAKE PAIN AND SLEEPING PILLS!!!!!!!!!! I stayed awake as long as I possibly could.. So, there!!! You keep up the good work and you'll be back to your goal very soon... And remember what you learned about men from us..... There's one out there...... Let him find you!!!! Eva, girl, the tamales and jerky you brought were so wonderful.. I especially loved the tamales and may see if I can have my cousins' wife teach me how to do them... Jeff was so nice, just as I expected... and such a good sport.. I'm going to try that good earth stuff today.. I'll let you know if it is something I can do... Thanks for suggesting it... and for just being you... Jessica, I'm so proud of you.... Would love to claim you for my daughter like Janet thought...... Your new avatar and signature pictures are wonderful... And your last posts have been so great... I see so much of a change in you in such a little time that has nothing to do with weight.... You are going to be a delight to everyone around you with this new attitude... Good for you and your family.... Janet, You are all I expected and so much more.... honest and sincere just like your posts....it's no wonder you are our fearless leader.... I hope you aren't crying anymore and are just smiling at the remembering..... Thank you so much for not giving up on the trip.... (you, too, Eva!!) and yes I remember about my hope for next year..... and I know you will help me get there.... Laura, what a dear you are... and your little one is so special.... good parenting there!!!! Guys, this little boy has a heart of gold... When he and his daddy were leaving to go to Universal studios while we were off to shop I asked them to get me a gift for Mimi... They did, a stuffed turtle, Squirt, from the Nemo movie... Just perfect for her... But Nelson insisted on it being a gift from him and he got it rather than another gift for himselft... Was that not the most wonderful, thoughtful thing for an almost 6 year old boy to do????? Hug him for me again....... I will be searching for something for him and when I find it expect as package in the mail!! I love your smile..... it is the window to your heart... how special you are.... Karen, It's hard to know what to say to you... If it weren't for you I wouldn't be here and I'm so thankful to you.... This is the 2nd time in my life I have bonded with a group of women that have become friends for life.... the first was wives of soldiers who were in Iraq with DH..... now I have all if you because Apples gave me the courage to stay here when I was feelig so very out of place..... Thank you, dear friend.... Now let's talk a bit about this Valentine "treat" for your DH.... Did he like it???? I'm thinking it didn't take long to get the dog off your lap......WTG............ So, I have been put in charge of getting the personal information about all of us FL girls together so we can be in touch in all the ways other than here..... Some of us exchanged addresses before Christmas for a card exchange, so I'm beginning there... If any of you want in on this e-mail me your mailing address, home phone, cell phone,birthdate and any other info you want shared and then I'll get the completed work out to everyone... FL girls we didn't do birthdates, so you can send them to me, too..... Jessica, I got one phone # but can't remember if it is home or cell.... So, I'll wait to hear from you all about this for a few days and then do my compiling.... I had the most wonderful time... I handled the traveling alone very well... The seat belt fit without an extender, the tray laid down flat on my lap..... I got to all my connections and had no anxiety.. I sat next to people who did not look at me like I was a freak and I met the most amazing 6 women you can imagine.. We shared and shared and laughed and loved each other for exactly who we are.... it was heaven... Next time can only get better as the circle grows bigger and bigger.. So, there is my book..... Sorry to make you read it all at once, but I just needed to make sure you all know how special you are to me...... God, forbid, if I missed someone,,, I didn't mean to at all..... I tried to take notes as I was reading and all.... I hope I got everyone, and if I didn't please speak up so I can aplogize and tell you how important you are to me..... My Mimi is so glad to have grandma home... We stopped to see her last night and she just screamed and jumped off her chair to me..... Does the heart good to be loved so much.... She is here now and watching Caillou, as ususal..... Today is DH's birthday and I have friends and DD and Mimi coming for supper so I'd better get moving.... I'm making beef stew, salad, and JOHN DEERE cake..... I caught him driving his newly restored John Deere tractor around so that means he got the wiring finished now... This is the 2nd tractor he has restored... the first was my red one.... He has one to go..... Anyway..... Laura, remind me to tell you about John Deere cake...... Hugs and prayers............ I love you all............ Julie

Hello friends,................ haven't read any posts, but just wanted to tell you I'm home safe and sound..... My DH was waiting at the door dressed in his best western suit with his red heart western tie he wore at our wedding, holding a dozen red roses..... What a valentine and welcome home... I was very happy as was he...... I have to check back now to make sure Janet made her flight home and the rest drove safely and all of the rest of you are doing well....... So, I'll be back tomorrow when I can.... and just in case you haven't heard, we had the most wonderful weekend.... wish you all could have been there..... Love and hugs to all......... Julie

OK, I'm up and getting ready to leave for the airport... It's in Bismarck, so have to leave here by 6:00 to be there early enough. Just need to do my makeup and hair and get dressed..... For those of you watching this soap opera thus far, the next few days will probably be quit boring.... I'm still shaking my head wondering who will make it and who won't..... You all take care........Laura K, hope your dog will be okay.. You all have a great weekend and we'll talk to you when I get back home... Hugs and prayers to all.... Julie

Oh my, but this trip is turning into a bunch of conflicting emotions... excited, sad, happy, nervous...... Let's do fall next year..... skip the winter worries.... I would drive to Duluth, too.... Know the way, was just there a few days ago..... It's 472 miles for me and about 7 1/2 - 8 hour drive.... I could do that just fine... good idea, Apples..... Time to finish up things here... goodnight all.... Julie

kdee, I'm sorry you are feeling so bad..... I don't know what to tell you except to call your doctor... It certainly isn't good for you to keep PBing all the time... Have you put yourself on straight liquids without any solids at all? Maybe you are just so irritated now that you need time to heal... I'd try the liquids and if not better real soon, call the doc.... Good luck to you....

Cheri, I'm sorry you are struggling with your sugar and chocolate... I am doing that, too, with the sugar... I just crave it..... I'm just not eating on point much at all these days... Had cauliflower soup twice today and about 3 cookies... Not a good food day, but also not over calories.... Just no protein to speak of.... Gotta get something good going or I'll be gaining, too... Lori, stay cool..... see you soon.... Let's hope Janet gets things straightened out...

Well, I'm feeling proud of myself... I printed my boarding passes and paid for checking my bag.... So, I think that part is all ready to go... my bag is mostly packed except for little last minute things... Gotta do my carry on with mostly "purse" stuff in it.... a book and my requirements for my neck during flight... Have a neck magnet and a hot pack thing that I might need for the longer portion of the trip... So, I'm feeling like I've got things under control.... Janet, you answered a question for me about the boarding passes... You must just have to wait and get the return flight ones at the airport...... I was wondering why they didn't print.... Anyway, better go spend some time with my Mimi and DH...... I'm feeling so sorry for those of you that want to be going and can't..... It is exciting to think of meeting these wonderful friends in person... and I wish you all were included... Jodi, your input is important, too.... for next time... glad you spoke up..... TTYL............. Julie

Morning............. I slept in the bed with DH and not in my recliner last night...... That doesn't happen often lately with this shoulder/neck problem.... It was nice and I didn't even notice when he got up.... slept til 8:45, but didn't go to bed til 1:00....... Well, time to pack... the clothes are all clean so just need to make some decisions... Also lots of odds and ends to do..... Some business things need taking care of.. DH doesn't do business with out instructions... also want to make sure he has food ready....And Valentines for all my babies and such..... Linda, I know you are frustrated about no weight loss.... It's the same for me.... I just go up and down on the same 2 or 3 pounds all the time... Right now I'm up 1.5 from my all time low.... Wish I could break the cycle... But I don't get all the exercise you do..... Wish I could start.... Maybe after I finally get this MRI I can start some kind of program again... I have my 40 year class reunion this summer and sure want to be down a bunch more by June.... Well, better get busy.. Talk to you guys later... Julie

Hey everyone, Jessica, good job on the 9 pounds.. doesn't it feel good to have the doc say, "Way to go," instead of, " you've gained!!!!!!!)?????? I know that I would like to lose way faster than I do, but every time I go in I have lost and they give me such praise.... Evidentally, slow loss makes them think we can keep it off forever!!! I'm hoping that is right..... Apples, your list of supplies sounds very reasonable... I'm sure I would be doing about the same thing and my DH would say the same as yours.... But one must be prepared, right!!!?? Glad you got your phone situation figured out.. I've heard of those magic jack things.. I have a decent set of luggage, However, I got it a couple years ago after DH backed up over my mother's middle one and killed it.... He felt so bad he went to buy a replacement and bought a big set... Gave her the one that was the size he had run over... I actually salvaged it by removing the outside pockets.... It works fine for traveling in the car, but not for checking at an airline... So, my set is part nice and part tacky.... We gave DD a set for Christmas and so now I borrowed hers that is that in-between size that I need....Hope I don't lose it or wreck it... She hasn't even used it yet... Laura, I think you might be right that we have to adjust the number of people.... but not sure if Jessica and her DH will be there Sat night or not...... So, I'm not sure either... Eva, you're going to really need a vacation by Thursday... Don't overdo it too much.... Well, I'm not sure about Vegas next year... I swore I'd never go back after step daughter moved here from there a couple years ago... We made many trips and didn't really enjoy it much....Maybe it will be different with all of you instead of kids that don't like me much.... I guess we'll see what next year brings... I'm still up for Apples' lake cabin next fall............ Mimi has gone home and DH just picked up all the toys.. I'd better get moving... need to get him some supper before I leave for a meeting at 7:30.... I'm on a committee to replace the altar paraments at our church... Ours are old and worn out... but no one wants to be the one to say change.... Old, traditional, country church with plenty of money... Got to spend it on something.... But we just can't throw the old ones away so we have to figure out a way to have them encased and displayed... One is about 100 years old..... We are having wall cases built..... Talk to you all later.... Julie