Kat817

Hi Everyone- I read about your denial Patty, and had to come back and let you know how sorry I am about it. I was denied twice, and they recommended an attorney as well. That's when like Darcy said, I went to Mexico. I had my uncle who is a M.D. check things over for me, and on his recommendation, as well as friends here who had been banded there, I went. I understand the financial impossibility of it for you now, I really do. I wish I could get the insurance to realize their mistakes... I also want to send my condolences over your Uncle, it is never easy. I do agree, I would hate to think of your Mom traveling so far already! Glad Taylor's ear was not something more serious, lucky you, going to Disneyland to take their minds off of things. Heck when we go it is a long planned vacation....one I haven't been on in many years! I think my oldest DD was 16, so it was 8 years ago! We have vacationed since, but not Disneyland! I am jealous! Take it easy on your back, but don't let it keep you down, walk carefully, it has always helped me more to stay moving a bit. If there is anything to help in any of your situations right now, let us know!! We love you, and hate that you are going through all this....big big hugs. Sherry, my last fill was a major hello to restriction as well. I had adjusted to eating smaller amounts, but still a fair sized serving. Now I eat a few bites, and am done. I checked in with some of the long timers, and found most of them saying during their biggest losing stretch, they ate several small meals a day, and each consisted of 6-8 bites. I was shocked, I guess when I had heard "small" before, I never expected THAT small!!! I have been trying to make sure I do good foods, since it is such a small amount. Now I had that fill middle of last month, and I still cannot eat a lot, but it has not affected me health wise, I seem to be doing fine with it. It is hard on my head!!! I WANT to eat more than that of some things! But every couple of hours I eat some. And as I have lost some extra weight, it seems to have loosened some. I eat like Cindy said itsy bitsy bites. I do quite a bit of fish. But it was a shock to me the change! My first fill was 1.5 cc, that was not a lot of difference than nothing it seemed. Then just another little .50 and WHAM!!! I am restricted! But I have made some necessary changes to how I eat, and realizing I only need to eat a couple of bites, and then I'm not hungry anymore, so eating until I am not hungry as opposed to eating until I am full is my goal!! Sounds silly, but in my mind it made sense!!! Good Luck with it, you are not alone!! Cindy--I lost a post the other day, what a pain!!! Eileen-glad the 2nd party was a success! Darcy--glad you are back up and doing well. Dianne--I would have loved to have seen your program, glad you had fun! Betty--you off riding? Hope Beannie is enjoying her vacation! Anne, Mary, Pat, Allison, Donna (wherever you are..we are worried!) & anyone else my tired brain is forgetting not personal, sorry) Big hugs to you all! Well we are off for our evening walk--y'all take care! Kat

Not meaing to highjack the thread, but when I had a question about my crocheting, the Aunt that originally taught me was passed on. So I went to our local Senior Citizens center, and there was a group of women who crochet and knit. They not only helped answer my question, they basked in the attention! They totally LOVED being ask! I still visit with several of them. They make squares for blankets, that are distributed to homeless shelters. I have been delivering the blankets for them since that fateful day! Kat

Dianne, I am sure Darcy understands--after that test, the jokes just can't be helped!!! My BIL, was given a picture (I know....made me go hmmmmm too!) I wanted to find someone with the know how on a computer to superimpose a picture of his face on it, so we could tell him they DID find his head up there!!! Hope everyone is having a good weekend! My LBT was down again yesterday.. Kat

My gosh Eileen, that nephew must have strength with some to spare, to have survived both! Your family will continue to be in my prayers. I didn't get to try the popcorn, DS and his family showed up, so we postponed the movie until today. I feel better, releif at DH's recovery is the #1 reason. The Dr. is giving DD hope for the kidney situation, and my Mom is healing as well. But also I read about my friends and their serious situations, your nephew,and Pat's friend, and like Kim's sisters place burning down...and my problems today seem insignificant. Perspective........ Darcy-I am so glad your test is "behind" you. Since he did find a polyp do you have to have them routinely from here on out? Kinda weird they gave you the very magazine that had been recommended! Yesterday between our 3 walks we have now gotten up to a mile and a half a day. That combined with this fill, that has me majorly restricted, has been what has spurred my weight loss. Believe me it is not self control!!! I made a VERY VERY bad decision to eat some corn on the cob night before last...well it just sat. Didn't make me PB...it just sat, for hours. When I went to my band oreintation seminar, a man was telling about eating grapes, and them doing that because a skin had blocked his stoma. He was able to clear it by drinking meat tenderizer--which I didn't want to do. Long story short, after discussingit with my Dr. I did my best to get rid of someof it, and it moved things around that the rest finally moved on. So I was tighter yesterday even which is why I worried about popcorn. But in the end, I stuck to liquid all day. I made a caramel shake last night, and the cool eased it a lot, it felt better almost instantly! I had an egg for breakfast, and it was fine, so bullet dodged it seems like!! Stupid decision!!! Well I am off to finish getting ready for the day! Talk to you all soon! Kat So going to be more careful today!!

I too ate in my car ---a lot! I don't think I ever went to pick up fast food for the family, that I didn't devour a large order of fries on the way home, and then go on to eat my meal with the family. I didn't buy cakes, I bought brownies....and would explain half of them being gone the next day saying I gave them to one of the kids to take home. Now I still pull into the sonic for iced tea, and have the urge to order food to go along with it, like I always did. But I can't....if I order food, I cannot drink. It is an instant PB! Now with my last fill (the 2nd), I eat only about 6 bites of anything and I am done.....more and I am miserable, and lose it. An hour or 2 later I can eat another 6 bites. So now I have to make those 6 bites count. I used to hide what I ate from my DH, now I find myself assuring him I am getting enough to eat. It is hard sometimes, because there are things I WANT to eat, but the fact remains I can't eat them in quantities like I once did. This band in here works!!! It is on guard when I am not! I have bought food, and been totally unable to eat it. On another thread I read about wasting food, someone said that food could go to waste, or to waist, and she chose waste. So I have adopted the attitude. When you get to a place with your fill where the hunger is eased with just a small amount of food, life will change for you. I would have sworn I would never be this way, I only hoped for help, I never would have imagined it to be this way for me. My only regret is not having it done years ago! Good luck to all of you, I relate with each of your stories. The band will help.......it is too awesome for me to find words for!!! Kat

I second that vote, for a support group anywhere in NM. I know of 6 of us in the Farmington area, but no one seems interested in a support group.... Kat

Anne--no internet...you WERE roughing it girl!!! Glad you enjoyed it, and that youare back. What did you spend your winnings on? Lucky girl!!! Cindy--I missed the bashing, I have seen reference to it today, but am proud of your backbone! Sometimes I have no problem standing up for myself, others, I wimp out, never know which me is gonna appear! Anyway--way to go! And like you I am begining to worry about Donna. Has anyone heard anything, or is she vacationing again and I missed it? Thanks Anne!!!--- I was just wondering where abouts you Texans were located as well. Our place in Texas is outside of a little town called Comanche, it is between Austin and Abilene. Anywhere remotely close to any of you?? Betty, I agree the interstates make travel fast, although I notice around where we go in TX, it is all fast!!! Little roads and they have 65-70 mph speed limits. Not so here in NM. We have such abysmal drivers, and all the driving records we set, are bad ones...most DWI's etc. Plus our roads, all intersect with reservation roads, and all the laws change....so it is mostly 55mph. I also like how when we are driving down there, if you come up behind someone, they just slide on over to the shoulder and let ya by!!! Not so considerate here!!! Eileen--boss change his plans and stick around? Oh no, he will be gone tomorrow---ok, I am slow on the uptake today!!! Dianne--I am so glad you had such a good time with your husband. It is refreshing! I hope you have many, many years of anniversary's to do your "thong thang". Patty--you out getting ready for school? Darcy--I have thought about you and your test many times today, hope you are ok!!! Let us know. Sherry---any pre-lim drawings of the tattoo you want. I don't have any. Neither does DH, doesn't that make us unique??? My ex was fully sleeved, and had his back convered, so, I tend to stay away!!! Ok, I am off, we are going to a movie tonight, just have to decide what movie. Wonder if I can eat any popcorn..... Kat

I spent just over $8,000.00 going to Mexico. Half of my airfare was covered, but my DH went with me, so it was a little more expensive. They allowed him to eat with me at the hospital,and stay with me 24 hours a day, they provided our transportation from the airport. The cost covered everything related to my surgery. My surgeon spoke to my primary care Dr. prior to my banding, and had set me up with a local Dr. to do my fills, and aftercare. I am in a rural area, so when I say a local Dr. for fills, he is still 6 hours away. So with that in mind he also made contact with a general surgeon here in our area, and followed up with copies of everything to all Dr.'s. I have spoke with him only twice since my surgery, but his staff has been in touch regularly. Originally every 10 days, now once a month. And like others, the one time I did think I needed to ask him a question, I had him talking to me on the phone within 20 minutes. And at that he apologized for it taking him so long! I thought long and hard about having the surgery, I tried my insurance, and was denied twice.After researching Dr.'s and talking with prior patients, I made a decision, and I was scheduled within weeks. I did not want to wait for months on end, and attempt to jump through all the hoops my insurance was trying to make me do. The hospital was as clean or cleaner than most I have seen in the US. I felt the care and compassion I received from the staff to be top notch. I would recommend it to anyone. If my own daughter ever needed the surgery, I would not hesitate to take her. Good things and bad things happen in all types of surgery done in both Mexico and the USA, as well as other countries. Seems kind of silly to try to dissuade anyone from having the band by bashing the surgeons in Mexico, by lumping them all into one. Down the road from where I live is an American Dr. who is practicing daily, he has been charged with DWI twice, he has even been arrested for sexual penetration of a minor. the AMA revoked his license for 2 years, but he is back. Now to judge all US Dr.'s by the actions of this quack would be as unfair as lumping together all Dr.'s from Mexico due to the actions and bad results of a few. It is everyones responsibility to check out the Dr. they intend on putting in charge of their life. If they are not willing to do that, maybe the surgery is not for them! Kat

Darcy my dear....sounds like you need a laptop & lots of Charmin. I hope it goes well....alright, I admit it, pun intended!!! Let us know how you are when you can. Will be extra prayers going up for you tonight. Pat--I am so sorry for your friends family. Like Allison, it reduced me to tears. If you will let me know Jae's last name I will add him to our prayer tree at church. I will call and add them both to our prayer chain, extra parayers can never hurt, and God will know who we are praying for without the name! Same as your friend knew who you meant. It was the fact that you cared and made contact that mattered. She is human too, and is not going to worry over the name slip up. We all do it. And BTW, if I had any self control I would have been able to save my own money!! But the fact is, without the restriction--I am without control! But thanks for the good words!! Sherry--we do breakfast for dinner too. Breakfast food is easier for me to eat sometimes. Although right now I eat very little of it too. I know I seem to be harping on that, but it is so wierd for me not to eat anything not moving!!! Seems like it just can't be enough, but obviously it is! Beannie--have fun vacationing! I am jealous!!! Eileen--boss around? How did the birthday dinner go? My DH and family took me out to my favorite mexican restaurant for my b-day. They make homemade chimchangas, that are tooooo good!!! I was given free fried ice crean from the restaurant for the birthday, and was so full, my DH and granddaughter ate it! Dang it! Patty--is it cooling off there yet? Got your back to school shopping done? Betty--are you sick of me asking about your foot yet? Hope it is better! Is it interfering with your riding? I wondered because of Sherry referring to an AT motorcycle. I understand Honda has a new AT coming out again too. I know it isn't your Harley tho!!! So are you in an area of TX where you can ride year round? DH is concerned that by the time they allow him to lift his bike again, it will be freezing. We have a rally over labor day weekend we always attend, and he is major depressed to miss it. Also--you were ask about Clark shoes...another you might try,is Birkenstocks, they may not be the prettiest shoes around, but when I herniated the discs in my back, they saved me. Still when it goes out, I put them on for a few hours, and feel relief almost instantly! Cindy--I think taking the day off and enjoying special time with DD is a great thing to do! I used to allow DD an occasional day away from school, that we both just enjoyed. Usually following an orthodontist appointment or something, and we would just take the day and see a movie, or go roller skating, all kinds of fun things. Soon my granddaughter will be old enough, they grow sooooo fast! Enjoy your day! Diane--well..........we are waiting!!! How'd it go? Such a romantic!! Mary--Donna---are we gonna have to come and hunt you down??? Talk to all of you soon! Kat

Well my vote makes it unanimous (sp?) Nate is definitely a handsome boy....keep him away from my granddaughter!!!! She is too young to be tempted by cute boys!!! Looks like you have a keeper Allison, and congrats on the 30 pounds~~~ ain't it great!!! Darcy--don't get too freaked out over the blood, there are many causes. And having a baseline colonoscopy, as unpleasant as it may be, especially to prepare for, is not a bad idea. I have a good friend who had the same issue, and they found a fissure ( a small tear), and nothing serious. I will keep you in my special prayers anyway. I say special because all of you guys here are in them all the time anyway! Beannie--I don't feel like I have done anything special for the weight loss. I mean there have been definite times I sadly refused something I might have liked to eat because I knew I would be better off without it. But overall, I have actual restriction, and the band is doing way more than its fair share at this point...and since I am not experiencing any negative health effects, I am letting it!!! I have learned it hurts to overeat, so a few bites, and my meal is over. And it is easyily a few hours before I want or can eat anything else. So my food intake has dropped dramatically. Add that to the fact that since DH had his surgery we are taking minimally 3 walks a day...it has helped. But I don't feel like I have done anything besides live with the band decision! But thanks for the kind words! Dianne--hope your evening goes wonderfully. Knowing you care enough to go to the trouble you did, is going to make DH feel so special! Eileen--enjoy your special birthday with DD. Betty--Cindy--we were planning a trip to our place in TX this next couple of weeks sometime, but they tell us not to bring DH, it is so hot and dry. One of the side effects of his coumadin is heat intollerance. It is dry here too, but not as hot. The entire state of NM is getting rain except the tiny NW corner where we live!!! Betty sounds like you have been working the exercise despite the foot, I am impressed, and humbled!! Cindy, did Tuesday liven up your school kids? Well I am off to make some dinner. I wish someone would either tell me what to cook, or cook it for me, just one.........see y'all later! Kat

I flew to Mexico for my surgery, and had no complications at all. Prior to going I had arranged more local aftercare. I was given pain medication in recovery I believe, something into my IV. After that I refused it, I did not need it. I was up and walking the hospital the afternoon of surgery, and did a lot of walking around the next day. We flew home 5 hours in the air, followed by another 5 in the car, on the 3rd day. I took one dose of liquid Tylenol on our layover, due to a headache. I had packed Gas X and never needed it. Once home I was walking Home Depot the next day, "supervising" a remodel of my DD new house!! I have been on the go ever since. I had actual stitches, that we removed ourselves. My fill Dr. was very happy with my surgical report, and my recovery, as well as my weight loss. It was without a doubt the easiest surgical procedure I have ever had. Would do it again in a heartbeat if something were to go wrong, and would recommend it to anyone! Good Luck to you!!! You have made a wise decision in my book! Kat

My SIL and I were banded together (well at the same time...banded together created quite the visual!) anyway...she called me everyday wanting to compare weight loss, it was one big race to her...until she fell behind. She no longer asks me about my weight loss, she avoids the subject. She has VERY poor eating habits, survives on Cheetos, ice cream, and mashed potatoes. I have splurges....but nothing like that!!! I have now lost double what she has. But she doesn't know that, I will not rub it in, like she did to me in the begining when she was losing faster than I was. That sucked!!!When her weight loss stalled, so has the race! Keep plugging along, and use it to your advantage, it gives you additional motivation, to stay the course and do well!!! I like Lisah's dignified response about passing them on to someone else....classy! Good Luck--I've been there!!! Kat

We can provide shade in the summer and warmth in the winter for our honeys!! Kat

I have a minor mitral valve prolapse, that did not interfere with my surgery, they did however pick it up on my tests, and looked through my medical chart, for guidance, and my history of care with it. I too pre-treat for amy dental work. I was born with this condition, and it has never worsened in any way. My DH on the other hand, never had any issues with his heart, but began getting palpitations, and was short of breath, and they found the same condition in him, mitral valve prolapse, resulting in valve failure. He had surgery to repair it just over 2 weeks ago. Blood clots are often a problem with this type of heart problem, and blood clots can be life changing if not life ending. It is sad that you worked so hard to get to this point only to be slowed, but it could be that in another way altogether that the band will save your life. I will keep all good thoughts and prayers that it is nothing serious, and that your surgery will soon be on schedule. Good Luck! Kat

4-3: JenRN - 263/257/248/150 - 15 total 4-3: jenn28 - 282/265/229/165 - 53 total 4-3: Picardy3 - 298/300/271/150 - 29 total 4-3: tipper - 300/290/259/165 - 41 total 4-4: Sugar1 - 311/289/231/150 - 80 total 4-4: Dak – 255/251/225/150 – 50 total 4-4: Angels - 264/255/235/? - 29 total 4-4: Harpseal Al - 327/295/220 - 34 total 4-5: Boo - 208/203/188/130 - 20 total 4-6: Disneynut - 290/287/260/125 - 27 total 4-7: Guysis - 234/197/134 - 37 total 4-10: JulieNYC - 358/288/150 - 70 total 4-11: Vickie1177 - 320/297/267/137 - 53 total 4-11: tellymelly - 240/235/184/135 - 55 total 4-11: Fel0816 - 307/284/265/to get under 200 - 42 total 4-11: dsrjrr - 231/230/210/130 - 21 total 4:11: truckinmama - 262/234/160 28 total 4-13: Nursekathy2u - 358/356/335/175 - 23 total 4-13: NJgirl - 248/230/212/140 - 36 total 4-13: Miper70 - 217/201/145 - 16 total 4-17: Amourette - 22.5 total 4-17: Jeepergurrl - 242/222/140 - 20 total 4-17: MelAnne - 245/207/150 - 38 total 4-18: Danaclark2 - 270/260.5/245/150 - 25 total 4-18: LapBandit - 392/369/347/336/324/308/298 - 94 total 4-20: Omamoon - 220/211.5/188/130 - 32 total 4-20: KimInMD - 288/288/253/156 - 35 total 4-21: Yoda - 273/257/231/150 - 42 total 4-21: kristielynn - 310/302/259/150 - 51 total 4-22: alisonb - 286/270/176 - 16 total 4-24: Eficka - 125/117 op.day/106.6/69 - 18.4 kgs/40.4 lbs total 4-24: Ceparano - 255/270.5/235/170 - 35 total 4-24: Kat - 289/281/238.5/165 - 50.5 lbs total 4-24: hlj25950 - 262/257/241/160 - 21 total 4-25: momof2boys - 270/266/244/145 - 26 total 4-26: Bostongurl - 264/244/208/145 - 56 total 4-27: tinaj - 226/221/210/150 - 15 total 4-27: lookingout - 185/178/165/101 - 20 total 4-27: flowergoddesstn - 214/204/190/130 - 24 total 4-27: Dimples0323 - 284/284/241/145 - 43 total 4-28: Susan4794 - 283/267/253.6/145 - 29.4 total 4-28: bluehill - 333/278/145 - 55 total 4-28: Irish Girl - 224/214/182/135 - 42 total 4-28: MomofSixKids - 240/238/215/150 - 25 total <!-- / message -->

Hi all! 50---can we all say 50!!?? Yeehaw, 50 pounds gone!!! I love it! Been working on the last couple of pounds to make the 50, I would lose a pound and gain a pound!!! You guys all know how it is!! Now the next 50! Yeah Cindy, I had problems yesterday too, not sure when they got it fixed. I was gone until pretty late, and was afraid to check it when I got in, that I would log in, and never get to bed. As it was I would have been better off, I had a rough night, took some Tylenol for my leg hurting, and it turned in my tummy all night, first experience with reflux, eeewww not any fun. But my eating was terrible, lots of fried food last night, then the medicine, and my stomach rebelled!! We have had our local County Fair going this last week. It is a pretty big fair for our rural area, they said about 100,000 will have attended by the end of last night. We went for awhile Friday night, looked at exhibits, then went to a ZZ Top Tribute band, "Sharp Dressed Men" concert, it was great! Then we went again last night, finished looking at the exhibits, and went to a Led Zepagain (a Led Zeppelin tribute band)concert. We went with another couple and between us, our kids all came and went. It was such a good time! We were at the ZZ Top tribute, and this drunk guy comes up and sits by me, and is trying to get me to go up and dance with him! Now he is drunk, seriously, but he was not obnoxious, he was talking away to us, and he says, "Man this band is good, they really remind me of ZZ Top" I had to laugh I ask him "Ya think?" he took it seriously, he says "yeah man, they are good!"!! Now as a tribute band, they did the dress, the beards, the moves, everything, not just the music. It was so funny. He introduced himself to us, his name was Michael, and off he went to dance alone!! Now, as drunk as he was, and with all the people dancing, he was good!!! He was not especially clean!! He did not smell good, unless sweaty & whiskey appeal!! But drunk as he was, he had rhythm, and some good moves!! My friend Becky and I were shocked to say the least!! And he sang along, and from the looks of it, he knew every song word for word. Anyway, we had a really good time at both concerts, and at the fair. DH did really well, we walked for awhile, then would find a bench and sit for a little bit. He is doing so well. What a relief! Betty-Hope the foot is better, sorry DS had to leave so quickly! Cindy-you need to slow down, or you will run into yourself coming as you are going!!! Wanna do a makeover at my house?? Darcy-enjoy the shack-or at least the down time away! Beannie-Glad to see you back!! Like Cindy, it sounds like you need to slow down! Allison-sorry it took me so long but...WELCOME!!! My oldest granddaughter is an Allyson! You have found the BEST thread on the site!! Patty-man I would not want to be in your shoes, confrontation is one thing, but with a friend it seems so much harder! Good Luck! Eileen-where are you? I miss you! Sherry-you took the words right off my keyboard in regards to Darcy's quote!! I couldn't have said it better! It fits so well--Thanks Darcy! So last week, we were going to have a nice quiet steak cookout for my DIL's birthday. When my MIL heard, she insisted they wanted to help celebrate with her, so we changed it and included both our folks. I bought more steak. Then MIL calls again and says we need to call his sister, because her husband and daughter have birthdays in August too. (Like I don't know that, the niece and I share the same birthday). Well I didn't want to do a big hoopla thing, but got pushed into it, so I froze the steaks, and went with burgers and brats, got out all the tables, by myself, set everything up, spent a fortune on food etc. Normally DH helps, but he can't lift the tables and all now...so I did it alone. Then, at the last minute my FIL decided it was the perfect time to bale hay, so they didn't come. I was pissed! So now, she wants to have a dinner at their place tonight, because "we really didn't have an August birthday celebration". The heck we didn't! But now I am supposed to fix a potato casserole, and a salad. Now not to be picky, but my birthday was this month, I shouldn't have had to have the first party or do anything for this one, as per how we usually do it...but now I am being petty!! Except next month both my MIL and SIL have birthdays, and guess who gets to do it all alone then??? AARRGGHH Oh well, I am off to make the danged casserole! Enjoy your Sunday all! Kat

Hi everyone! Welcome home Patty--Missed you lots!! I want to thank you so much for the wise words prior to DH's surgery. It just so happened that I found a sale at booth in this consignment shop here where I live the week before we went. I happened upon these little heart dangles, made for hanging from stethoscopes. I bought 10, not knowing how many I would need, or if I would even give any away. But the first day I gave one away!!! At this hospital, they do nothing but heart related health care, (gee think that's why it is called the Heart Hospital??!!). They also do not have a recovery room, they are taken directly back to their room, and they have 2 RN's with them non stop, for the first 24 hours after surgery. They work 12 hour shifts. so his first nurse, that was so sweet to us, her name was ShaMarie, just before she left I told her thank you so much for taking such great care of him, and gave her the little heart. By the next morning, I had nurses asking where I found them! So as one would be especially nice, I would dole them out!!! Then I had also brought some heart shaped key rings with a place for photos. I gave only one of them away, and it was to this girl who delivered his meals, she always ask me if I wanted a tray...every time. The hospital offers an evening tray complimentary, but she offered one at every meal. We only had one nurse we didn't care for, and she just ignored us is all that was the problem. An older woman, about my size, and she sat at the desk, never checking on him, and when we ask for something, she just sent the tech...she got what she gave....nothing!!! Anyway Patty, thanks so much for all the suggestions, they made my stay so much nicer, and also brightened their days some. I will do my best to pass on the good advice, and caring thoughts. Your help made a difference. My scale is on a standstill. I think it has to do with not drinking enough. I have had bits of sweets, but nothing much. Just not drinking is about all I have changed. Now, tomorrow, I am eating birthday cake and not feeling bad about it!!! Will worry about it the next day!!! Our big celebration this year is going to be dinner and a movie. But it will be better than his birthday, his was the day after his surgery! I feel for you all with the fleas....I hate itchy bites, I am worse than a child, I scratch til it bleeds!! My DD had 3 fish, Manny, Mo and Jack.....she had them for about 3 years, and they definitely had personality! One morning as she was getting ready for school, she noticed the temp was low in the aquarium, so was adjusting it when the phone, rang, she come home later to cooked fish. She was heartbroke, heck it made me sad! Sorry about the fishy loss! Well I think I will drink me a glass of water, and take some Tylenol, I am having sciatic pain (known in our house as psychotic pain) down my leg, I must have twisted wrong. Hurts like hell. Would tell you what I have found the best exercise for it to be, but it might embarrass y'all, and besides DH just had heart surgery!!!! Have a good one, see ya tomorrow! Kat

The best revenge, is a life well lived. In the future as they struggle, not just with their weight, but with learning to eat in a way that will not result in the yo-yo of "doing it the old fashioned way", you will be out, doing things, living the life of someone who knows the proper way to eat, and exercise. Years ago, I learned the best way to shut my brother up when we argued as kids, was to give him a holier than thou smile, and not say a single word. Let the smile speak volumes. He hated it then, and to this day!! He tells me "I know what that smile and one raised eyebrow mean!" heck sometimes I don't even know what they mean, but they shut him up!!! It worked with the kids, it works with rude salespeople....makes them wonder what the heck is up!!! Don't even dignify them with a response. Sammee today was your TT I believe, I hope all is well, and your recovery as smooth as that belly will soon be!!! WTG girl!!! Kat

My MIL has been on my list lately too. My DH had heart surgery a couple of weeks ago, and we walk 3 times a day, she keeps hinting that I am pushing him too hard. I go along for safety sake (not to mention the exercise is good for me too!!!), he sets the pace and the course. Like I would do anything detrimental to him, even hinting at it pisses me off!!! Then I was planning a quiet birthday dinner for my daughter in law, and she insisted that she and my FIL wanted to come, because they all live close together, and she wanted to celebrate too, and in fact she suggested why didn't we invite the rest of the family and have the August Birthday celebration. We do that because there are several of us with birthdays this month. Yes me included, but still, with a recovering DH and babysitting for my 20 month old granddaughter, I had so much free time, why don't I do it. Ok, I plan it, spend way too much money getting ready for it last minute, and we are all here, except the inlaws....she finally shows up, and my FIL decided it was a nice night to bale the hay, and she didn't want him alone (he is after all well over 80), so she left. After insisting they be invited, and starting all the big party crap!!! So she tells my DH tonight, that maybe since I was in a bad mood they would just have another celebration on Sunday, but that she was not cooking, because she was tired of me rubbing in the fact that I can eat to my SIL (her daughter -- we were banded together, and she is having esophogus problems). I guess because I eat it is rubbing it in! I give up!!! She may well be having esophogus problems, but eating ice cream, and drinking 6 yoohoos a day is not going to help with weight loss regardless of what is up with the esophogus.....oops, that WAS rubbing it in maybe!!! AHHHHhhh man thank you sooooo much, I needed to get that all out. I am sure some of it makes no sense, I apologize!! It feels better sharing it tho!!! Y'all are the best!!! Kat

Congratulations on a job well done!!! What a wonderful year of change you must have had!!! I hope that by a year I am approaching my goal weight too. At any rate, the changes are becoming obvious, and health wise alone, it was without a doubt the best thing I have ever done for myself! You have every right to be very proud...thanks for the inspiration!!! Tell us what you found to be the best thing about the weight loss.... Kat

Today is going to be very laid back. I think we let DH overdo yesterday, he is sore today, but no serious set backs of any kind. I had wrote all about what our plans were for yesterday, and inadvertently hit a wrong button and lost it all...so give up!!! Decided to tell you about it afterwards instead!! We put DH in a wheelchair and took him to the County Fair, where they were having a oilfield company (including the one he works for) BBQ cookoff. You buy your plate and go around sampling as many as you want. We decided it was a good thing they gave us complimentary tickets, buying mine would have been a waste of money. Actually it wouldn't have been a waste, the money they raised all went to the Blue Star Mothers. A group of women who each have a child in the military. They use the money to send care packages, and to carpool to the airport in Albuquerque when a troop comes home. Different things, but a good place to raise money for. Anyway, we took our DS and his wife and baby, and DD and her baby, and met up with our best friends and their son and his wife and baby. So we were a group!!! We had a lot of fun, Rick got to see a lot of his coworkers, and visit, and catch up. We ate good food. They added a new category to the cook off, where the new side dish had to have jalapenos in it, in one form or another. I had one of those moments I truly wished I could eat like I used to!!! Some of those stuffed jalapenos looked soooo good!!! But I am still on the 3-6 bites at a time regime. An hour later I can eat another 3-6 bites. But we didn't want to be there all night!! Anyway they have a panel of judges, and then they have a peoples choice award in each of the categories, of BBQ beef, pork, sidedish, and jalapeno side. last year DH worked the cookoff and they won peoples choice for beef. We razz him about being a chef! They had a band playing, actually they were only practicing for a concert they will do later in the week, but we all listened for awhile, and watched my granddaughter dance up a storm. Then we all (minus the DD and granddaughter) came back here to our place and played a game of cards (progressive rummy). At which I got whooped on!!! We were out and about and up late, and wiped hubby out!!! He is in his recliner snoring as I type!! Eileen--I really try not to stop my cart in the middle of an aisle, but lately it is the only safe place. My mild mannered granddaughter lately has taken to grabbing anything she can get her hands on, so the only way to avoid things being knocked off the shelf, or added to my cart...or me getting dirty looks for scolding or spanking hands....is to park her where she cannot reach!!! I wish we could all get together too. But have to admit, that even the friends I have who ARE close, we seldom seem to spend evenings like we finally did last night!! And these friends we see often compared to some others!! And there is no reason, except we all have different schedules. Usually we meet up and have dinner somewhere. We used to spend a lot of time together when our kids were playing ball, and that kind of thing, but not so much anymore...shame on us! Cindy--I like the occasional rainy or snowy day. If it is snow, it has to be just so. Everyone has to be safe where they need to be, and not on the road, then I can put something in the crock pot, or on to simmer, and enjoy the snow. But that does not happen often. Rain I don't have such strict "rules" with. Although DH is always grumbling about how drivers mess up equipment by not knowing how to drive in the mud. And out here where I live if it rains much the backroads become bottomless. They literally use CATS to pull equipment and trucks off and on locations in the field. So he colors my perceptions!!! I love Spring, and watching things come to life, and we always end up with new calves and I like that. Fall is beautiful here. The river bed is as bright of gold as you will ever see, and the scrub oak is bright red, it is an awesome sight. But I can't enjoy it as much as Spring, knowing soon those trees will be bare, and icy! Anne-- I know I missed you, enjoy your vacation...I either didn't know or forgot----where'd ya go???? Darcy--How's the back? Be careful, they are not to be taken lightly. One serious injury can screw with you for life. Worrying about it hurting, and hurting it worse, etc. will make you eat I would imagine. I am a stress eater in a big way!!! BTW, I was going to ask you (not that it is any of my business!!) are DH's kids giving him any grief about selling the house? I know you will love making your home together, rather than trying to deal with the current situation. We are thinking of building a new home in about 5 years. We will be debt free then!!! Our current home is paid for, but we have other things we want to finish with, and then we plan on building out on the farm. Right now, his folks have a place out there, as well as our DD and DS. In all honesty, one of the main reasons we want to wait 5 years, is that right now, his Dad would have him busy "helping" every second he was not at work!! He tends to keep him busy with us living several miles away! In 5 years DH will have changed jobs, dropped his hours, etc. Because our retirement requirements will have been reached!!! Then he will change to a slower position, and just add into his 401K. And we want to build out there so we can add a shop, something we really don't have room for here in town. Let us know how the sale prep goes! Everyone enjoy your Sunday---I am off to move the water. Will the fun never end??? Kat Oh yeah I have a new mini goal---I will drop to obese level 1,(down from morbidly obese, then through level 2 obesity) when I hit 235 pounds. I have 5.5 pounds to lose to make it!!! Woo Hoo!!!

I would call the exterminators before they come out this week, and explain about the BW. Chances are when they send the guy out to deal with the ants, they can spray for the spiders too, at not much difference in cost. A big part of the charge for being sprayed is just them coming out. I have our place sprayed every other month, now just precautionary, originally to eliminate the spider population! But during the spring we get tons of box elder bugs, and elm bugs in the neighborhood, and he sprays my property borders for the bugs at the same time, and I never see a difference in the charges on my bill. Might be worth a phone call. Also, he told me you can usually tell whether a web belongs to a BW because their webs are VERY sticky, most spider webs are not. Has proven to be true, with what i have found outside occasionally. Good Luck, and I hope youlearn to love your new home! Kat

My fill Dr. always warns us, that newly banded women seem to get pregnant very easily. He said losing as little as 5-10% of your body weight, kicks your cycle into overdrive. He went on to explain that in reality it normalizes, but many of us due to the weight had irregular cycles, and that the weight loss improves it. Also mamabear, don't worry yourself sick over it, your next pregnancy, you may not have a single sick day. Each pregnancy will be different, and you may sail through without issue, I hope so for you!!! My first and last pregnancy I was sick. The entire time the last pregnancy, only the first trimester the first time. But with my daughter in the middle of the others, I only even felt nauseated once, and we were stuck in traffic right by Long John Silvers, and the fish smell made my tummy roll!!! But I never got sick!! I have heard others say the same, that they know if it is a boy or girl by the way they do or do not get morning sickness. I had all day sickness, not morning sickness the last time!!! Good Luck to all of you....my baby days are over...working on and enjoying the grandbabies now! Kat

I am almost 4 months out from my surgery and still to this day if I don't get enough protein or fluids, I end up feeling depressed and grouchy as hell! In the early days I used clear liquid protein called zero carb Isopure, and also the unflavored Unjury powder, I used in in broth, jello, whatever. Now I sprinkle it in all kinds of things when I feel the need to bump my protein. I bought the Isopure at GNC, it comes in bottles similar to the Sobe drinks, and has 40 g. of protein per bottle, it comes in several flavors. The Unjury I ordered on line, and use it still, the website is www.unjury.com . Try it and see if upping your protein intake doesn't help, it will also help curb your appetite some if that is an issue. And like Cindy said, cruise through the before & after pics, that always gives me hope. You have found the best support site around I believe, all you have to do is reach out and someone is there to listen and offer any help they might have. Even if we can't DO anything, we will always be here to listen and offer a cyber shoulder!! Good Luck to you, you made the right decision, and very soon, you will begin to see that. You will be in my prayers tonight. Kat

Hi All! Another day...we survived recovery, potty training, and well intentioned family!!! And tomorrow is Friday, the weekend is imminent!! Beannie--Glad you enjoyed your trip, and your show. I too am jealous that you and Eileen get to get together, no one lives near me here in BFE!!! We have a coliseum here that they hold a lot of concerts in, and the seats are so small, it is horrible. I am 5'9" and my knees literally bang the person in front of me in the back of the head! I always feel like everyone is looking at me as I attempt to fit. We used to choose our concerts by the artist, now we also choose by the venue, because it is so awful! Darcy--Sorry about your back, I can relate all too well!!! I have a herniation at L4-L5, S1 station. DH and I refer to the Sciatic nerve pain I get as psychotic nerve pain!!! One of the best bits of advice I can give you on it is, do not sit in the same chair or position as you heal. Move from the couch to a chair, then lay for awhile. Always find the comfortable spot wherever you are, but often the place we always sit, in the position we always assume, is not the best for healing. Meaning when I am healing I have to get my butt outta my recliner!!! My neurologist told me to change seating often, and it helped a lot! Good luck on the house tho. I don't blame you a bit for wanting your own home, you deserve it, and I bet it relieves a lot of stress between you and DH. Eileen--laugh at me potty training my granddaughter, and I may just send her to you!!! She is such fun tho...you might keep her so I better not! Sherry--big difference in the pics!!! You look years younger! I don't like my picture taken either! But a friend caught me unaware during the luau we did for my folks, and I was laughing at something, and I was shocked how much difference it made...me laughing rather than scowling at him and his ever present camera!!! He is going to do some pics for DH and I of us on the bike, when DH is able to be on the bike again. His limit is under 10 pounds now....so it will be awhile!!! Anyway, I plan on smiling! 50 pounds is a big accomplishment! Be proud of yourself, I am proud of you! Cindy--My kids had a few teachers, and school personel that endeared themselves to us through the years. Unfortunately they also had some who were pathetic! I love that you spoke up ...heck I'll even haul your soap box around for ya!!! You need to put a new ticker with a countdown to retirement, so we can keep up with it, since the chain thing is a little difficult online!!! Have you bought all the back to school clothes for DD yet? Anne-- I love the painting story, and I have a feeling you have lots of fun times in store from this little guy. Lots of girls gonna be left behind with broken hearts! And I too wanna see the red hair! a couple of years ago we had to go to my BIL's funeral, and all of the girls (the cousins around my DD's ages, there are 6 of them), all showed up with red hair, now they all lived in different areas, and had not consulted, but they had all gone red...and one of my SIL's friends remarked on the family genes, showing up! Kinda like everyone telling my DD she is just like her Dad....meaning my DH, and he is not her Dad! She come from my first marriage! Betty--how's the foot? Must be better, seems you have run away somewhere!!! Dianne--what was the final ad count? As for your PITA...We had a dog when I was growing up, he was a boxer mix, and his name was (spelling it like we said it) puhn-in-thee-us....in reality it was painintheass...all run together. We also had his brother (same thing, as it sounded) deeohgee...D-O-G, because we couldn't come up with a name I guess so we just spelled dog! Mary--Since you are glad about the divorce, I will be glad for you. It is a weird thing...glad it is over though, life will be simpler without that all hanging over your head. Keep us posted! Might have to see about how I send a champagne toast!!! Patty--if you check in, I hope you are relaxing and enjoying the time with your boys and your family!! Well I am off to bed...hoping tomorrow is a good day. Found myself grouchy as hell today!! Think I didn't eat or drink enough. This fill is tight. I am losing weight, but I just don't eat much at a time, and I am not hungry, so I forget, to eat more often, and am letting my calories, and protein get too low I think. So I worked on it today...and tried to de-stress some. It is very nice going walking with DH even if it is just a few blocks each time. I usually walked alone...holding his hand and walking with him is much better!!! Sorry he had to have surgery for us to discover that!!! Actually it was his work schedule keeping us from walking together more than anything. Oh well, I am going to enjoy it while we can! See y'all tomorrow! Kat