LittleOleMeinFL

Happy New Years everyone!

DH and I did make it to midnight! (just barely b/c I had two glasses of champagne!) I have really been upset with myself these last couple months because my weight loss has stalled. I know in the past I would have gained back most of my weight during high stress times- this band has REALLY WORKED. I am ready also (as many of you have said) to get motivated again and start fresh. I have had so many PM regarding my pre/post pics. I know that others' photos have really helped me see what is possible with this band and I felt like giving back (kinda like Janet did by starting this thread). Eva, you make me smile saying you could never do it...LOL. I told you, I was born without a stitch of modesty. God help me when I am really smoking hot and skinny...LOL.

Janet~ hugs. So sorry for your loss. I just caught that as well. (missed so many posts)

Linda~ That is a LOT of decorations! wow

Apples~ LOL on the one drink wonder. : ) Hoping the year end stuff gets done and with as little stress as possible. I have a package to get in the mail to you. I PROMISE to get it out this week. Nelson made you a card and a thank you card. He keeps asking if I sent it. : ) He also picked out something for your DH & son. I forgot to tell you, he wore his JD hat on the plane and got soooooooooo many compliments! I still have to mail my Christmas cards. Just couldn't get it all done.

Great~ so glad you are doing so well with knee #2. So proud of you. Sorry bout the fireworks! Luckily they ended right after midnight here.

JB~ welcome back. (not sure when you left) Nice to meet you. : )

We have a cold front moving in tonight and it's supposed to get to a low of 30s for the next 3 days. Buurrrrrrr! Today was 80s so DH heated the jacuzzi so Nelson could get one swim in before the cold. (I almost said one last swim in 2009). They had a blast today. Earlier they went to the Alvin movie to give me a break. I should have put my feet up, but alas, I used the time to clean and do laundry. I won't be able to get the Christmas stuff down until Nels goes back to school on Monday. The tree coming down always makes him so sad. I try to leave the Christmas train out for a few more weeks to make it more tolerable for him.

DH is cooking an arabic dish called "Bamya"... that has okra, beef, Tomato sauce, cilantro and lots of garlic and you eat it on rice. ZAWAJ.COM: Recipes

The trick is to cut the okra tips with a point and keep them whole- panfried on high heat with small amount of oil until browned- seals them and they don't come out slimey. I love the way it smells. yummmm. He's making a cheeseburger for the picky one. I am so thankful he has taken on more of the cooking duties lately. Such a great guy. : )

Posting a few pool pics to get you guys excited about the Feb trip to FLORIDAAAAHHHHHHHHH!

Will CBL peeps! ~~~ peasout, Laura

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!!!!!!!!!!!

We showed Nelson video footage of NYE in Paris (another white lie) and told him he stayed up until midnight! LOL.

<toasting with a glass of bubbly> Here's to everyone's health and happiness!!!

Thanks for being such great friends!

peasout.... Laura

Laura, Beautiful family! I just love looking at Christmas pictures. I am still praying for your dad and your family.

Arlene

Thank you Arlene. There is no such thing as too many prayers. I appreciate you thinking of my family and for the kind words. HNY to you too. HUGS.

Only 2 holiday lbs to take off. Had some sliders yesterday for my Birthday but back on bandwagon today. Also, finally got out and exercised. Health, serenity, and God's grace be with you all for the New Year.

Much love,

Cheri

Cheri~ Happy Late Birthday. I somehow missed that when scanning the last couple pages. duh. But Sooooo many posts that I just decided it will be close to impossible for me to catch up.

Happy New Year to you. : ) Congrats on getting back to exercise and eating healthy. So nice of you to babysit. I know I miss my parents being near by.

Laura

You can go to my profile to see my undie pics. (no modesty I know...LOL)

LAP-BAND

Hello all~~~

Happy New Year's Eve to everyone!!!

We got home last night. I was so sad saying goodbye to my parents. I cried like a baby on the way to the airport. It was one of the most amazing Christmases ever. I am so glad we went.

You guys got me thinking when I saw the before/after pics. I realized for my LBT I haven't posted that pic in my undies since June. In June I was 250. I REALLY don't see ANY difference between the June pic and today, although today I weigh 226. I guess it's b/c I haven't lost anything in the last 2 months. I am ready to get back on the bandwagon. <getting my game face on>

Missed you guys so much. I only got the last couple pages read. Congrats Apples on the "delivery". Hi to everyone. I PROMISE to write more later.

DH did get the weekend OFF for the Feb Florida weekend!!! It looks like he and Nelson will be coming to Orlando that weekend with ME! With all that has been going on and all the separation he doesn't want us to be apart if we don't need to. He will do his own thing with him during the day (Disney/Sea World) and just wants me to be able to tuck him in at night. But I promise to bring them by so y'all can meet them. So........ count me in! I think we will stay at the same place if they have condos available. I will still pay my portion of that condo if it is "empty" as I will be hanging out there with you guys all the time. But someone can have my bed (ha, unless I drink too much one night and can't make it back to my DH...LOL)

Posting a couple pics. First two are BEFORE... from 2008 and last 3 are 2009. : ) I am pretty computer literate and cannot figure out how you guys are doing the side by side pics... duh (blonde moment).

CBL~~~ peasout, Laura

Hi all~ Greetings from NC.

Apples~ "This too shall pass"! Kidney stones SUCK! Lots and lots of fluids! If you can take an anti inflammatory that sometimes helps. Even nausea medicines (like Phenergan) can relieve the "spasms". We give IV Droperidol for them in the ER and it works wonders. (better than narcotics). Do you ever get a UTI when you have them? Sometimes you need antibiotics for a couple days. I hope you feel better soon!!! Thinking of you.

Eva, Great, Janet, Cheri, Arlene, Melissa (all the last posts that are showing as I type this) and friends... Hope everyone is doing well and getting ready to ring in 2010!!!

I have so much to update you guys on.. but I am sooooooooooo tired. Will write more when I get home on Wed and will post some pics. We will make sure and get to the airport EARLY with the new security measures!!!

Dad update: restarted chemo today. Did pretty good. He is VERY motivated. The IV steroids they give caused his blood sugar to go to 440! He was REALLY concerned but I told him to give his insulin and recheck in the morning. He was able to pee normally again today but that is also b/c of the steroids, but the oncologist said it is a positive side b/c means chemo might shrink tumor enough to get nephrostomy tube out! Dad said he misses swimming in his inside pool and PROMISES to not take it for granted and will swim every day if the tube comes out!(part of the cancer grieving stages- bargaining) Nelson let Grandpa take his Thomas the Train blanket to the infusion center. Dad proudly displayed it! : )

Mom bought me 3 Talbot's XL sweaters for Christmas that fit perfect. They tend to run on the slim side for me, So nice to be in 16 pants and XL tops. I felt nice and not frumpy today.

Time for bed, my eyes are closing. Hugs to all.

peasout Laura

just a quick hi. I haven't been on the computer since I left Florida Christmas eve. I am not even sure if the note I posted from my phone ever made it here. I hope everyone had a safe and wonderful holiday! Peace and love to you all. I hope to have time to catch up tomorrow. The look on my Dad's face as Nelson opened up presents will light my heart for forever. Just priceless. So glad I came up here Christmas eve. Nelson also saw snow for the first time ever! More later. Just so thankful for my family and for my LBT family. You guys really are so important to me and wanted to say thanks.

peasout.... Laura

I am in NC, typing on my phone. Was thinking of my girls this a.m.and wanted to wish each and every one of you a Merry Christmas!you guys mean so much to me and are "family" in my book! Will update later with Dad. and Nelson seeing snow for the first time EVER!!!! : ) so cute. Love u all!!! Peasout, laura

Hi guys... just popping in to say hello. I only had time to read this page. This morning was "Christmas" here! Nelson was so much more expressive this year and oooh and ahhhhed over what he got (and it was 1/4 of his usual amount b/c we are going to NC). He's been playing all day. That timing worked out nicely so I could do laundry, pack, organize the house before i leave.

DH is cooking "Christmas Dinner" tonight: It's 72 degrees out so he decided to grill burgers tonight! Cheeseburgers in Paradise (Jimmy Buffett style), grilled veggies, oven fries and salad. We might open a bottle of wine. He's a little sad about us leaving but totally supports it.

Dad update: Change in plans. He had decided to STOP chemo over the holidays. (he hasn't had a dose in two weeks or so) But he saw his urologist yesterday and he told him NOT to stop. He thinks the reason he is able to pee some normally is b/c the tumor might be shrinking. Maybe. So he is on schedule for Monday. The ups and downs of this are so tough on my mom.

My sister warmed me that Dad is keeping the house very warm these days. (she told me to bring some shorts and t shirts for when inside). Anyone elses loved ones stay cold when they had cancer and on chemo? She said he is keeping the heat on 80! Goodness gracious! That temp combined with my TOM hotflashes and I will be a pretty sight for Santa!!!!!!!!!

I will CBL friends. Just wanted to send some holiday love!

peasout.... Laura

Hi guys~

Just popping in. Soooo busy, no time to read posts- so just scanned them.

Welcome to the new faces~ I promise to get to know you after the holidays. This is THE BEST THREAD ever! Folks are kind (most of the time..LOL)

Janet~ agree with the survivor thing. Bless his heart he was in tears. He was awesome and should have won! Glad he got the viewers choice. I heard (not sure it's true) that if you had WLS you cannot be a contestant on the show. LOL.. I actually considered it a few years ago. LOVE that show. Must be the Peace Corps volunteer in me.

Apples/Great~ love oyster stew. yum.

Cheri~ love the new pic too. You look awesome!

Meredith looks like she is having a GREAT time in NYC... saw her pics on FB.

I am so busy with Taekwondo (party there tonight, practice last night). Errands. Packing. Getting house sorted to be able to leave DH here for a week. Praying the weather doesn't cancel my flight on Christmas Eve Day.

Tomorrow morning is "fake" Christmas morning for us. Told a white lie that Santa was coming to just drop a few things here tonight while doing a "test flight" of the sleigh. (that he knew the weather was good down in FL and good place for touch and go landings...LOL) He's used to Grandpa flying a lot down here and doing those... so he believes me. This way DH gets to see him have Christmas. What difference does a couple days make when you are 5. He said to me , "I am the luckiest kid ever b/c I get to have TWO Christmases!!!"

I am tight too. Must be the time of year. Had a muscle milk this a.m. and nothing else and it is 2pm!!! Will CBL....

peasout...Laura

Lori~ I agree with Nurse Phyl, It does sound like the itching is an allergic reaction. I am not as concerned with the confusion- as all narcotics can cause that. But itching is usually always a reaction. Many people think they are ok with any codone (hydro, oxy, etc...) but you can be fine with hydrocodone (vicodin) and then be allergic to oxycodone. Now, to make it even more confusing, hydrocodone when taken over a long period of time (even when only taken occasionally) can eventually(cumulative effect) cause an itchy rash. The reason I know this is b/c my Dad has been on/off of it since the summer. The last admission he had this horrible rash all over. They gave him iv benadryl and steroids. They got a dermatologist consult and he did a biopsy and said it was from the Vicodin. He's taken this his whole life for surgeries and such, never had a problem. It's just b/c now he has been on it for extended time. They said a month or two without it and he should be ok. Well, he doesn't listen and he still takes it at times. Just like Great said, the oxycodone (percocet) is MUCH much stronger and makes you feel loopy/tired/confused. The schedule of Percocet is so high that we practitioners cannot call it in to a pharmacy, it has to be on a prescription pad AND... never any refills. It's illegal to put refills on that schedule. So, Lori, if you are reading this. Stop the oxycodone (percocet) and stick to your hydrocodone 5mg. Did someone say they called her?

Apples~ Glad your party went well. I prefer the laid back atmosphere that you have for your parties. Make yourself at home. : ) I am on my way over! LOL : )

Janet~ so proud of you for getting back to the gym.

I went to get my hair done on Friday and I was talking to my girl (who lost 100+ pounds in a year without surgery, exercise addict now and eating healthy) but who struggles with it EVERY day of her life. She will admit she is a food addict and still slips too. She sees me every 4 weeks and although I haven't lost really in 2 months now (maybe 1-2 lbs), she noticed a difference. So I came home and put on my black bra and panties that I used in my first photos (if you look at my profile pics)... and the panties fell off! LOL. The bra was all saggy. I realized I haven't worn those since 6-30, my last photos! How did I let 6 months go without a frikkin photo? Well, I need to redo them, as they are dark and not clear. (It has nothing to do with modesty- hell, i posted pics of me in my BVDs at 300 lbs, do I seem like I have an OUNCE of modesty?!) But the point is, I have gotten smaller, even though I haven't lost much.

And I know without a DOUBT, if I didn't have this little band of silicone inside me.... I would have gained every pound back these last couple months!!! I know that usually I medicate myself with food when I am stressed. Well, I am stressed. And I can't eat. Oh, my dear sweet DH, almost had to kill him last night. He went to the store for me and brought home...................... <drum roll> chocolate COVERED KRISPY CREME DONUTS!!!!! Well, what do you think happened? I ate one. like the top 1/3 of it. AND IT GOT STUCK! I couldn't PB b/c it was so dry... and I couldn't drink b/c that caused pain. I had to go lie down until it finally melted I guess or got wet with all the sliming going on. oh geez. That pain was so bad that those could grow mold before I would touch another one. See, that band works. Usually I would have eaten the whole box and hidden the evidence!

By the way, I did get everything wrapped. 3/4 is hidden in the attic in bags. I put like 4 presents under the tree this year. 1 tag says to Nelson from the cats, one from me and one from daddy. All the other years he would have either opened them or had a FIT. Now he keeps picking them up and shaking them... and trying to guess what it is. So cute! They grow up, don't they?

I am trying to let DH sleep today. It's his last morning of "vacation" before going back to work tomorrow. Not much of a break- went to Houston with my parents and hung around the house, running errands, fixing things... I guess that's life though?

I will CBL, let me make sure Nelson hasn't destroyed something. He's being awfully quiet. Hmmmm...

peasout..

Good morning guys~ Apples and Julie, I see your names... wish there was a way on here to do instant chat/chat room!

ok guy~ quick note. (DH took Nelson to West Palm Beach today to run around and play and kill time) so I could get some wrapping done. Well, I have done laundry, edited photos and talked on the phone! I better wrap before I get surprised by them!

So proud of my little karate kid! He got his orange stripe last night at Taekwondo. (It's belt #2 for the little dragons) There are three levels there, dragons, karate kids and adults. He was so excited, he acted like he won the Nobel Peace Prize! It was priceless.

Linda~ hugs. Hope today is better. I know how crappy it feels.

Janet~ WTG on getting to the gym. It's real and it happens.

Julie~ hope you are feeling better soon. Colds suck.

Apples~ You need to catch your breath! You are making ME tired! Sorry for the PB. Welcome to the PB club. My cat coco Pb'ed this morning and I stepped in it. uuughhhh! at least when I PB I do it somewhere other than a turkish rug! (hard to see anything on those patters!) I had no idea they even MAKE JD mittens! LOL. I have a package for you, no idea if I will be able to get it out before the holidays. Nels made you a thank you card and bought a little thing for your DH. : ) He wanted to send you his GBH (after I told him you liked it)...awww.. but he ate all the candies off..LOL. ANd LICKED it a couple times..laughing. kids. ; )

I had really get to wrapping!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Did I tell you guys, I hate wrapping?!

Will CBL.... peasout...Laura

Hi guys~

Tickets are booked, we fly up to NC on the morning of the 24th. DH was being an absolute sweetie with this decision. He said he will be ok and busy with work anyways. He always feels so guilty when he has to work on the holidays and hates having to leave Nelson to go to a case. So I guess he will be a bit relieved with this aspect. He has to work the 24th, off Christmas but then on call 26, 27 and 28th. So, impossible for him to come. But the 23rd he will be done early- like by noon. We are going to open the gifts that are from others, and DH and I. I will take one suitcase that has smaller things. I think it is too late to risk shipping them- and then have to worry about shipping them back. Then, like one of you suggested, a few extra things can be waiting under the tree when we return. He will have 3 Christmases! He is also young enough that you can trick him with a lot, as he doesn't fully get the calendar concept. I emailed my Dad my itinerary and waited for his response. (He thought we were coming up the 26th). He and my mom are really excited. Thanks for all your support- you guys made me feel better about my decision. And amazing, I feel 100% better since I booked the ticket. I think my blues were PMS, grieving, and missing my family for the holidays. You guys are so right though- I have a lifetime of holidays with DH, and he with Nels. This could be Dad's last.

We had some very positive news for Dad today. For the first time in 2 months he was able to pee normally. (he has a tube directly in his kidney draining most of his urine). He was so excited and called us to tell us the good news. I was so happy for him- as excited as I was the day nels was potty trained way back when! ; ) I think he has decided to fight and is taking less pills. The other theory is the chemo shrunk the tumor a bit and it allowed the ureter to open a little. I hope that his stopping chemo over the holidays doesn't stop this improvement.

Great~ So glad you are home! That is awesome! So proud of you!

Apples~ Are you guys having a post harvest party? You've been extra quiet... perhaps you are having to "warm" DH up. ; )

Janet~ your family will be there the same amt of time I will be in NC. I hope I planned mine to be the "right" amount. : )

It's snowing in NC today!!! I hope there is some for next week. Nels has never seen the white stuff except in movies and pictures!!! He doesn't have any gloves or boots. I have some garden boots he could use. Not sure if the stores have gloves here..LOL. I have never looked!:smile2:

It's time for bed. More tomorrow.

peasout...Laura

Good morning~~~

Karen, one word for you.... YIPPPPEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!:sad::biggrin::biggrin::biggrin::biggrin::couch2::hurt:

Great!!!~OMW!!! An emergency unfill cannot be fun. I imagine the psychological part is worse... what if's. You will be fine. It had to be done. I wonder WHY it did that when it didn't the first surgery?! Hmmm.. <hugs>

I think I am going to NC the day after Christmas for a week. I have hemmed and hawwwwed about going for Christmas.. but would have to go without Nael and without toys....the thought of the first for both me and Nelson is heartbreaking. But I feel guilty also. uggghhh. Need to decide and buy my ticket. Nelson without his Daddy on Christmas, is that selfish? Me without my Daddy on Christmas, is that selfish?

CBL..

hi guys,

It's been raining here all day. I was supposed to have coffee this morning with a lawyer friend of mine and I canceled last minute. I wouldn't go out to meet the Queen of England in this weather! I think Florida weather has spoiled me. I dressed Nels in sweats, long sleeve t shirt and a hoodie jacket. DH started laughing at me cuz it was only 67 degrees..LOL. It's now 75 and the poor child is probably sweating his A$$ off.

I have been in a little funk the last day or two. I am still doing all my normal stuff- just feeling a bit tearful. I know I am down when I don't even feel like watching my recorded shows on the DVR. I find myself holding it in when I am around Nels, and then it builds up and I just cry. I know this is so normal, and it's b/c of Dad's situation, but I just feel bad for feeling bad. DH is being a dear- lots of hugs and talks. We went to Benihana (Japanese steakhouse where they cook in front of you on table) last night. Nels loves it and actually eats the chicken fried rice (even with onions and carrots in it!). DH told them it was our anniv. when he made the reservations so they would give us a table near the window with a view of the river..LOL. They came and sang in Japanese to us! N says, "I didn't know it was your anniversary!" From the mouth of babes! ; ) Took some pics with phone- they aren't that clear but will post them.

Dad update: Spoke to him yesterday for about 30 min. He didn't say anything to me directly about being mad. (he had told DH and my mom). He was sweet and talkative. He is really mad at the folks at MD Anderson and wants to file a complaint. He feels they could have reviewed the chart and prevented him from all that travel if they weren't going to do anything. He has a point. One of the ways they evaluate a person's functional capacity and quality of life is a series of questions: one being what % of the day are you active/up/walking and what % sleeping, etc. When he told the dr that 85-90% of the day he is sitting/sleeping she said something like "oh boy, yeah, the chemo is really wiping you out.. that is not good". Well, yesterday he woke up and didn't ask my mom for any of his pills, he decided he wanted to go get fasting labwork and decided he was driving. They went to Charlotte 45 min away and then out to Breakfast. I think if nothing else- that dr pissed him off enough to fight a bit. She told him 4 mo. to live (statistical avg) without chemo.- and I think he is going to prove her wrong! But on the other hand he has decided to wait until "next year" to do anymore chemo. He wants to get through the holidays feeling ok. I can't blame him.

Nels has his TKD belt testing tomorrow night! He is very excited and I hope he does ok. (it seems that they pass if they at least try and remember a little..LOL)

Great~ congrats on surgery being over! You are such a great patient! I'd be proud to be your nurse!!!

Hi to everyone else... will write more later.

peasout....Laura

Hey girls~

Welcome back Joann and thanks for the thoughts. <hug>

DH will arrive at 4:56pm... so will get Nels from school... hose him down (give him a warm bubble bath to remove all the playground residue)... and go wait in baggage claim so we can see which one of us can run to DH first! It's strange that these 2 nights of him gone felt like a week or more! And weird that it's that way b/c he is frequently gone for 2 nights when he has a weekend of call. Perhaps just b/c it was so stressful/news of dad/emotional time for us all.

Spoke to my mom this morning. She said dad doesn't feel good. Tired from the long trip (they didn't get in until 10pm) and pissed/sad from the news. She told me the reason he was so "mad" at me is b/c he doesn't want everyone knowing his news. He said "can't I die with peace and dignity?" I wished I could crawl through the phone and just hug my mom. She was crying so hard. The last few days have been especially hard on her. She sounds so spent.

Spent the morning waiting on people for the house... exterminator... electrician... sprinkler guy.. cleaning girls. It takes me hours to get ready for the cleaning girls, get all the laundry done, ironed, folded and put away... toys straightened up and in their spot (otherwise they just put things in random bins), going through paperwork and STUFF, washing all the rugs. She said that she only has a handful of clients like me that wash their bathroom rugs every week. She laughed and said that my rugs were cleaner than her towels! geez..LOL.

I will cbl. Hope everyone is having a good day.

peasout..Laura

Laura, dear, I feel so much for your pain.... What I have said before hold true still..... I understand... So, go ahead and cry or be mad or throw things.. Get it out of your system and then do what you have to do.... Being coddled probably won't be what your dad will want...so be honest and say everything that is on your heart...about everything... Chances are good that you will lose him sooner rather than later, but you don't have to be left with regrets like those who lose loved ones the other instant ways like heart attacks and car accidents.... Do it all and have no regrets to haunt you later on.... If I can help, just holler........ I'm only a keyboard away.... Hugs to you and your little guy... Watch a funny movie before bed and count your blessings, too.... You have lots.....

Julie, Thank you for your words. I know you are right. I think b/c what you are saying is so heart felt it has me tearing up. I don't want to have regrets. I tell everyone in my family I love them each and every time we speak. I never even got to speak to my parents today. DH did tell them I called and that I was thinking about them on their anniv. You hate to say "Happy Anniversary" when it is such a shitty time right now. By the time they got out of that oncologists office- they packed- went to the airport and then they were off. Last I heard they had to land in Asheville, NC b/c of the weather. Pea Soup and couldn't land near our town. My Dad is so stubborn and also wanted to just get home, that he rented a car and is making my mom drive the rest. 2 more hours down the mountains to get home. I know it's tough for him to just stay in a hotel. He's got all his meds, his CPAP, insulin, etc... I know he just wanted to wake up at home.

My step GM (although she's just my GM to me) just left to go back to Turkey today. My Dad's mom died when I was 4 from colon cancer. There was a pharmacist that had a store in the storefront of their apt building. In my GM's last days this kind lady took care of her and gave her pain meds so she wasn't suffering. She was a single parent, which was incredibly frowned upon. After my GM died, she would still come to the apt daily to check on him, bring him food. One day he said "marry me". It didn't start out as a love thing- but it ended a very nice love story. He was a father to her daughter (my Dad's step sister) who is younger than me. My now GM is younger than my Dad by a couple years. My GF died about 8 years ago and my Dad promised his father he would take care of her, and he has. He calls her "abla" which means "dear older sister" and is a term of endearment. She calls him "arbi" which means older brother. She came to visit for a month and spent most of her time cooking my Dad all his favorite childhood foods. (I know I have told the story a couple times.. but she is the one that "found" Nelson when he was sick and homeless and almost died- and was instrumental in his adoption. A blessing I will never be ever to thank her enough for.) I guess just trying to be the best mom I can be is what I need to do. : )

I am so glad DH is coming home tomorrow. Amazing how sometimes these men can drive you crazy with the day to day stuff... but then when they are gone for even 24 hours, you realize how much you miss and need them.

Can you guys tell I am emoting? I think TOM is around the corner.. my face is breaking out and I am sooooooooooo hungry today and craving chocolate. I was supposed to schedule my woohoo surgery before the end of the year (since we met our deductible); but I just don't think I can deal with it. Maybe I can channel the courage from Great.

Oh, I forgot to tell you a funny story from Sat. morning when I took nels to karate. One of the mom's was there with her son. He goes to the same school as N and I have known her for 3 years. She is also a NP (and her husband is a pediatrician). She rarely is at school, and they have a full time nanny that takes the kids to school, TKD and even puts them to bed 50% of the time. (so sad to me). Anyway, I haven't seen her in more than a year and she came up to me and said "I don't think we've met, my name is (blah blah)". I started laughing, and reminded her who i was. Her jaw was open. She said she didn't recognize me. Now, I do have blonder hair now (I was darker a few years ago).. and then 80+ lbs... but STILL... I think I don't look THAT different. Then she asked me HOW I did it. I just didn't feel like lying or hiding and I told her. I am sure now the whole school will know. I don't really care. In the beginning I was afraid for people to know- in case I failed. Now I feel confident that I am going to succeed.

ok friends, I need to get to bed. peace out... sleep tight... L

Thanks y'all for the thoughts and hugs. I really had tried not to get my hopes up, as a part of me half expected this news. But still... <sigh> And the other part that is horrible is my Dad got mad at me b/c I told my siblings. HE wanted to tell them and when he called my sister to tell her they were coming back early, she went on and on about how sorry she was and then asked if she should cancel her bariatric support group meeting for tonight. (she is famous for not having common sense in the area of listening and being sensitive to people's feelings/needs). Like, DUH, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to know a) just LISTEN to him before speaking :thumbup: don't mention your trivial needs/wants c) she drove them to the airport, um, don't you think they might want to be picked up tonight?! d) it is their 50th wedding anniversary tonight- just cancel your plans and be there for them! (now I think I know why he didn't want me to tell them. b/c of her... but I was trying to "prepare" her so she would be aware and could use some couth.)

And DH is stuck in Houston tonight. By the time he got them packed and to the little FBO airport that is south of town, he wasn't able to get the last direct flight back. The other flights were like 8 hr trips vs. 2. So we will see him tomorrow. Nels is very excited that daddy is coming home early. (me too)

House is clean, laundry all done, grocery shopping done and even filled the cars with gas (that is usually DH's job almost always- and I wanted the week started with full tanks. Did this of course before I knew he was coming home early).

Great~ Can't believe the DMV. meanies.

Apples, Janet, arlene & femme~ You guys have me craving mush... aka steel cut, grits and polenta. I am a southern belle and was raised on red eye gravy, biscuits, grits and my most favorite is sausage gravy. I ONLY like slow cooked grits, as the instant one tastes fake. And FYI... GRITS stands for GIRLS RAISED IN THE SOUTH. ; )

peasout.... Laura

Hey guys~

Really really crappy news from DH... They had the consult with the MD Anderson doc.... and after she reviewed everything... (the only thing they did was have their pathologist review the slides of his urine cytology and he had the identical diagnosis)... she said there is nothing more to do. She said to try and continue the chemo but that if it gets intolerable and it seems it is, then she recommends stopping. Prognosis: without chemo= average is 4 mo. +/- 2 mo. (and of course she states that she is only quoting statistics and there is no real way to know). DH said she was very nice and compassionate but that it sucked. Mom was crying and Dad was pissed for traveling all that way to hear only that. She did add that the history concerned her (my PGM died in 50s of colon cancer and now Dad with this type of urothelial CA-it is a combination that is almost always passed on. And she said there is a genetic test that all three of his children should have done.) SIGH <loud and audible>

DH is waiting to change his flight, wants to get them packed and on their way before he makes his plans. Dad's pilot left this morning, since he thought they would be there a week. They were able to radio him to turn around. The weather is really shitty in Houston and now not sure if he can land... or if they can take off today.

I can barely type this through the tears. Happy 50th wedding anniversary to my parents. They are devastated and there is nothing anyone can do. I am so sad for them. I feel helpless, angry, and confused.

Oh my word you all got busy this afternoon

82 cards Julie - I was bushed after 27 cards.... Sorry about DD struggles - I know how it goes - been there done that..

Laura - Love the pic of Nels & GBH - Great Job !!! Keep us posted on your Dad..

And Yes dear Nelson will eat when he's hungry - Pushing him to eat when he's not hungry isn't good - that's how we get fat - yes it's those things we learned in childhood that leads up to our obesity - like cleaning our plates cuz of straving kids in china.. I am glad the light bulb went off :0)..

Apples - ok I am going to try the steel oats - will cook them tonite cuz I don't have 30 min in the morning to do it.. (Phyl - I got them at Winco - QuakerOats - just a normal style box) I have splenda and sf maple syrup..

We all appreciate your sharing :0) - We love your cooking

It's so funny when I sat down on the couch to veg after doing my cards - had a 20 min nap and thought - this is why apples can eat 2500-3000 calories - she's on the go from dawn to midnite and I mean on the go - I would be exhausted just my your morning routine :0)..

I wish I could be like that - I can every now and then but then I get pooped out - I need veg time..

Cheri - you sure do have a juggling act with the family issues

Meredith - Enjoy NYC what a wonderful time of year to go...

Well back to my t.v. - cbl in a bit...

Hi guys~ I know you are all 100% right with the food stuff with kids. What bugs me about myself is when I KNOW something intellectually but emotionally I feel I need him to eat. I am convinced that one of the reasons I became morbidly obese is b/c I never knew if I was hungry or not. We ate on schedules and clean plate club, etc.. I think the thing that worries me is the food choices. He is picky and would never choose a vegetable. Even getting him to eat fruit is a chore. I don't care about quantity of eating- just want him to be healthy and get vit. and minerals. (he does get a kids mult vit) Enough about that.

Ditto Janet regarding Apples and her energy! At 42 I wish I had HALF of the energy she has!

Cards~ You guys are done?! I still need to do mine. I did create them on the walgreens website (with 4 photos), now just have to "order" them and pick them up at store. I will do that tomorrow. Lately I have been waiting to see who sends them to me before I automatically send them out. Not with family and close friends- I send theirs.

Meredith~ Good luck with finals and papers and finishing up the semester! It will all get done. WTG on the 50 to goal!!! You are doing fantastic!!!

Julie B~ I am glad you are finally having some relief. And I hear you with the intentional plateau. Since my Dad's diagnosis I have not felt like "working" on losing weight. I have not gained either and I am thankful for this band for helping me maintain. Without a doubt- I would have overeaten during this stress and gained back everything I had lost. I call it my choke collar- like some dog's wear. When I take off it PULLS me back. It has been a God send during this time. I always try to eat "healthy" foods and I do stay away from sliders. That is what has kept me the same. In the past I was able to gain weight with healthy foods- as I just ate WAY too much.

Great~ Hope you are enjoying your movie. I LOVE and totally get the PJs by 5. : )

Phyl~ Love the chili idea. I've been in the mood for something like that. I might make some tomorrow. I need a crockpot. I want one that the pot part comes out and can go in the dishwasher though. Any brand recommendations to all you one pot queens?!

Eva~ Hi friend. Your message was off my reply page... and I know you said a lot of hellos but my memory is gone and can't remember what you said.

Update on Dad for the day: They made it to Houston. They had to make one landing halfway (not sure what was halfway between Charlotte and Houston). DH said he was BEAT. We had their anniv. basket (fruit and gourmet) in the room and they liked it. (their 50th wedding anniversary is tomorrow). DH had gone to the store and bought some staples (bread, cheese, yogurt, water) since they have a kitchenette in M&D's suite. Their appt is early like 7am. I know he is having labs, CT scan, CXR and a few other things tomorrow. Will tell more as it's available.

Hope everyone is staying warm if it's cold... and cold if it's warm. (I have the AC on)... although it's 76 out now. It might get down to 70 tonight! burrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr :willy_nilly:

peasout~ Laura

Apples, I just realized that we posted at the same time. GMTA... great minds think alike. Just fed the stinker an early dinner. We ate weird today. He refused breakfast- had a cup of choc. milk instead. 8 gms of Protein, right? After we took DH to airport, we went out to breakfast- he ate 3 bites of pancakes and 2 bites of toast. Then I took him to the movies- Saw PRINCESS AND THE FROG. If anyone needs a G movie, it's cute (and sort of a musical). He ate a handful of popcorn and a 1/4 sprite. And then nothing but Water the rest of the day. Tonight I had some leftover lamb/greenbean stew and Nels had 3 bites of corn on the cob, 2 tiny apple slices and 2 tiny bites of chicken. He keeps saying he's not hungry. This is day 3 of his semi-hunger strike. I am trying not to make a big deal out of it b/c a lot is going on and perhaps.... ding ding ding... MAYBE he's not hungry?! I know kids will sometimes have a loss of appetite during growth spurts. The other day though he asked for a "muscle milk"..LOL. (which meant choc. milk). I have thrown a scoop of Protein Powder in a "milk shake" before when he refused protein for several days.

Apples, my aunt was the same way about her recipes. Her reasoning was that everyone thought she cooked for HOURS AND HOURS... and the simple fact was that she was a smart cook. She learned tricks of the trade on making healthy and economical food that tasted TERRIFIC! I guess that maybe if people knew how you "did" it all... it would take the mystery out of it. Hmmmm.. I will think more on this. But we love you for sharing with us. <hugs>

Hi guys~

Sorry for being remiss in keeping in touch. Just a busy busy busy time. Nelson had his winter performance on Thursday and DH was on call that night. Friday was his first day of "vacation" but he left for Houston today to be with my Dad for that consult with MD Anderson Cancer Center. I've been busy entertaining Nelson, so DH could have at least one day to "chill". Saturday I took Nels to TKD early in the morning and then out to Breakfast. We had a family afternoon/evening. Today took DH to the airport with Nels.... and had to fight back my own tears as Nelson bawled his eyes out saying goodbye to his daddy. We tried to prepare him this trip (unlike my departure that was sudden to NC), but it was still tough on him. Let's hope the Houston trip is productive and that they either get confirmation that what they are doing is good or news that there is something else to try.

Yesterday we did our annual Gingerbread house project. I wish I had the patience to bake and put together one.. but alas I but the ready made that just needs decorating. It's still so much fun! I love watching all the candies disappear slowly... and pretending that I don't see him "stealing" and eating them..LOL. I will attach a few pics. The house on the right was a ready made one from the grocery store. I thought it was cute- doubt it is tasty, but it was only $17!

I promise to write more later tonight after the little monster, umm, I mean angel is in bed. : ) I want to comment on the few posts I did read.

hugs hugs hugs... peasout... Laura

Good afternoon everyone,

I have a million things to do and instead I am going through Nelson's clothes. He is growing out of EVERYTHING! All his long pants are 5 inches too short (we don't get to wear long stuff much) and long sleeves look like 3/4 sleeves. (not really a style for a 5 yr old boy!) I have two huge hefty bags to go to charity. Sometimes I wish I was organized enough to sell them on ebay- but who has the time & patience!? I also have to slowly phase out some stuff b/c he has a very hard time letting go of things. I know all kids do, but it is especially a sensitive subject for him. I always pick 3 or 4 items from the year that were real favorites and put it in my cedar chest. I LOVE pulling those out to see how much he's grown. The girl that helps me clean has 14 nephews in Brazil and they are from the poorest area. She usually takes a lot with her when she goes for a visit.

Meredith~ Thinking of you with all the end of semester stuff. I remember how stressful this time of the year was when I was in school. Hang in there. Tough times never last, but tough people do. NYC?! I went once when I was 16.. saw CATS on Broadway. Have a great trip!

Eva~ Thanks for the flyby hi. hugs to you!

Janet~ brrrrrrrrrrr, even your temps are cold to me! I won't even get started with Karen's! Stay warm all of you! (hoping no one is mad at me for the rubbing the hot weather comment in)

Femmeone~ those pizzelles sound "to die for"!!! you aren't a grinch, those guys would have been equally as happy for some tollhouse. I do hope you sent them in SOMETHING after you made DH yank them from their hands!

Apples~ Happy baking! yum. I really think I am going to pass on my gingerbread Cookies this year. Still thinking. I just spend so much time with them and now we don't eat them. I always make a gingerbread house with Nelson. But I cheat and buy the "ready made "house and decorate it with him. I never use their fake royal icing b/c it looks bad. I like the real old school recipe. I love as the days go by and all the candy is missing. He starts picking them off as he walks by..LOL.

Oh, I have to tell you guys- all that talk of the Champion stuff at Target made me get some. I wore the black fitted ones and a matching v neck black t shirt yesterday. DH came home and said "you have really lost more weight!" And then wore the same thing to Nelson's karate and 5 people commented on how good I looked. I was thinking that maybe I will just wear it all the time! I did feel good in it. : )

Last night we went to Bone Fish Grill. I ordered the cup of Corn Chowder with Lump Crab that I get every time. I am sure it has a gazillion calories (can taste the cream and butter) but it is one of my most favs. I only eat half and give DH the rest. I had the appetizer portion of scallops (4) and it comes with a mango chutney. and I get a vegetable. I did have a gin and tonic too. I had planned for the meal and didn't feel guilty at all. I had a yogurt with granola (200) midmorning and a Protein Shake made with skim milk and berries for lunch (300). I still chuckle each and every time 4 scallops fill me up!

My sister had her 6 mo. post op appt for her gastric bypass. She's lost 49 lbs. My parents have been giving her a REALLY hard time (even with all their stuff going on) b/c they feel she should have lost more. She said her dr was ok with it. Encouraged her to make appts with nutr/exerc/psych to just tweak things. She is eating more calories/amounts than she is supposed to and admits it and she is not doing purposeful exercise. She will "walk" at Walmart and look at stuff and say I walked 2000 steps today. I just worry for her that although the weight is coming off now, that it will stop and then possibly gain it back. She's in a tough spot right now living with them. It's incredibly high stress in that house. (can cut the stress with a knife!) I think she is depressed but she says she's not. Maybe that's what worries me more- if you are 48, unemployed, and living with your parents- shouldn't that depress you?! On a selfish level, there is a part of me that is glad she is there for my mom. She does all of mom's errands/shopping and cleans the kitchen. But she can't cook worth a toot and is not self motivated to take care of things around the house. Mom has to ask her to vacuum under the table, she wouldn't notice that it needed to be done. It's weird to be thankful that she is there and mad at her for being a mooch- all at the same time. SIGH.

Tonight is Nelson's school "winter performance". They are singing the Beatles' "I want to hold your hand" and "all we need is love". He is playing a pretend guitar and is soooo excited! DH is on-call tonight and thought he wouldn't be able to go. His boss will "cover" for that hour. I usually take a million photos.. but they are wearing jeans and black t shirts and it just seems so not festive. just wish they had done something more colorful or creative. I was supposed to be on that committee too, but had to bow out last month. Perhaps I shouldn't complain.

A lot of you are posting this morning! I will CBL~ peasout.

Laura

-16 this morning when I went to work with a -32 windchill. BRRRRRR!!! I still haven't warmed up, though it's a balmy 20 out now. We get to freezing by Sat. and 40's on the weekend. It will feel almost tropical. LOL It snowed for 2 days but real fine stuff, about as much as Apples photos.

One week from today is my knee surgery. I think I am ready. I've gotten all my Christmasy stuff done, I just have stuff like laundry, change the linens etc. to do this weekend. I volunteered at the hospital today and in the office I work in they pulled up the schedule and I am at 930 am. And she put a call in to get me a suite if one happens to be available. That was so nice last time. And the best part, I may get a paid position there after my recovery. It's still a tenative thing but they asked if I'd be interested. Now if only we knew what was going to happen with DH's job.

Arlene, glad you enjoyed Hawaii, I love going there, haven't been in several years, since I lived in California actually. 10,000 feet is high, that is about the elevation we camp at in the summers, but I start out at 5280 (mile high city ya know) so maybe it doesn't seem as high to me. I do notice when camping at that elevation I get tight in my band, but it doesn't bother me just flying.

Laura, I must've missed a post some place, is your dad going to a new dr in Houston?

Yeah, We were able to get him a referral to MD Anderson Cancer Center. The head of the urological oncology is one of the few people who have cared for ureter cancer patients. (it's pretty rare, bladder and kidney are most common or urothelial or transitional call carcinoma). And apparently the kind of tumor he has that wraps around the ureter and grows out instead of in... is REALLY rare. That's why with all the cystoscopy procedures he has had, no one has seen anything abnormal! Crossing our fingers that it is a productive trip. Dad insists on traveling in his little plane (Cessna 210P), of course with a friend pilot doing the flying. It's a pretty long flight from NC to Houston. He says "that's why I have my plane, to use it". Who can argue with that?! DH will meet them there. He is going to be his "advocate" and help talk "medical" with the docs. I have one of the best husbands in the world! (arguably some of you have good ones too)

Wishing you the best of luck with your knee surgery!!! I know you will do GREAT. ; ) Also, it's so much better when you know what you are getting into. I hear you on the 100% paid thing. We have met our deductible for the first year EVER.. and I have to schedule my hysteroscopy/ fibroid thinga-ma-jiggy SP?? (forget the real name) surgery before the end of the year if possible! Stay warm. brrrrrr. (should I tell you guys I am sitting in the sun in a bathing suit by the pool on my laptop? no, maybe not) :scared2:

Laura