Meredith2424

Cheri~ I agree, I miss the West Coast Clique on here too!!!! I hear ya on the boring times. Thats how I feel here on Mon and Tues. I lost 5 lbs on my 5DPT too! Thank goodness. It's about time. Now people definately notice when I lose 5 pounds, where as when I was HUGE, they hardly noticed the first 30 or 40! Julie~ Sounds like you are feeling better! Enjoy your time with you little Mimi! Kristi~ Congrats on 2 more pounds!!! Thats great! Take it easy though with food IMHO. I did liquids only for 10 days after surgery. Oatmeal in any form is still tough on my band. Give your body time for the swelling to go down. Just an idea. I would go with puddings, mashed potatoes, yogurt, stuff like that for awhile as to not irritate your band. But, it sounds like you are doing really great! You got out, took a shower, losing weight, you are on your way to becoming thin!!!! Yay! Lori~ Enjoy your Hawaiian vacation!!!!! CBL~ Meredith

Hi Gals, and welcome KisKis! You will love being banded. My "ah-ha" moment was not just a single moment, but every day when I would bend over to tie my shoes or put my socks on. In fact, I wouldn't bend over, I would have to sit on the couch and force my leg up onto the other one and hold my breath while I attempted to put my shoes on. It was awful. I was 26 years old and 278 pounds. I was disgusted with myself and I knew that I was sick of being fat. Everyone would always tell me "you have such a pretty face". I couldn't stand to hear it one more time. I knew that if they were to continue their sentence, they would go on to say "but you're fat". One lady at work actually did go so far as to tell me that i was so pretty but needed to "lose some weight". I wanted to look at her and say, "really? No shit sherlock?" But I didn't. What made it worse, is that she is fat. Not as fat as I was, but pretty large. After her rude comment I told her "Thank you for letting me know I'm fat. Thats why I'm having Lap Band surgery next week". She then proceeded to tell me that her grand daughter had "the same operation and she lost weight and gained it back, plus some!" I walked away. Both sad and happy. Sad because I knew she was right. I was fat and I needed to do something about it. I was miserable in my own skin. But happy because I knew that I would prove her wrong, but most importantly, I would prove to myself that I could do it and be successful! Here we are, 1 1/2 years later and 100 pounds lighter! I saw that lady again today. She tried to make small talk, I wasn't interested in what she had to say. People sometimes wonder how Andrew and I work? I am eccentric and loud, he is quieter and looks like a "computer nerd". I was fat, he was thin. He got a full ride scholarship to the University of Michigan right out of highschool, I failed my first year of college right out of high school, quit and went to beauty school (I have redeemed myself with graduating from university cum laude though!). You get the picture. The fact of the matter is, none of these things matter to either one of us. We love one another for who each other is. Quirks and all. I love that man. Though tonight, no one would have known it. We fought, but everything is fine now. We haven't fought in awhile. It was all about him being a work-a-holic. I was feeling lonely, and blah blah, poor me, you know the drill. HELLO MEREDITH!!!! Thank God he has a job and works so hard! DUH! I was being selfish and sometimes the two of us need to break it down to one another and tell it like it really is. Bottom line, we love each other no matter what, and that is all that matters. Although he did tell me that he will try to improve upon his schedule and he was sorry that he made me feel that way. I had to give him a shout out, especially since we had a tough night. They happen. So, its day 4 of the pouch test. Yesterday I did have a little lettuce with my soft Protein, but I'm ok. Today I had a TON of protein and feel better. My dad made stir fry with steak when i stopped over for lunch (i finished work early) i picked out the meat and the onions and ate only those, and he also made some cabbage Soup. I had about a cup of that and hour after the steak. Later on, i came home and had to cook up the round steaks I had in the fridge marinating for two days. I cooked it on the George Forman and sliced it extremely thin. I ate about 4 oz while i was slicing because I knew andrew would be home late. I made him a salad with steak, tomatoes, onion, lettuce, and a homemade vinegarette. No salad for me. So once again, Cheri and Linda, you are both so very right! I'm 5 lbs down and am not feeling the crazy hunger when between meals and I am so much more satified. Thank you to both of you! Eva~ I hear ya girl! Sometimes I find it so hard to balance things out. You are right, we shouldn't feel obligated to do something with someone if we are somewhat "co-dependant", but on the flip side, we do need to maintain relationships and friendships. It's a delicate balance. Really, I think that I just might like to hibernate for awhile and concentrate on getting this last 20-25 lbs off! Hope you gals have fun over at Janets this weekend! Sounds like trouble to me! Lori~ Pay the money!!!! The less points on your record, the better. Just my opinion. My friend who is an attorney advised me that this was the way to go when I got a speeding ticket a few years ago. Points mean your insurance goes up automatically. At least in Michigan that is the way it works, and we are a "no fault" state. Sorry about your fall. You poor thing. Your break is coming, HAWAII!!!!! I think all of us should join you there. Can you tell its 3 degrees here? Thanks to everyone for you inspiring stories and reminding me why I got my band. I cannot be happier and know that my tool has helped me to get soooo close to my goal! All of you are such an inspiration to me! Love you all! Meredith

Ok, so now over with day 2 of the pouch test. I got on the scale this morning and it said I was down 4 lbs, even though I know I had over 1,000 calories with the Soups and what not. It seems as though calories aren't really an issue during the pouch test, it all about re-training, right? What do you girls do when doing the 5DPT? I ended up going last night, and actually had a really great time. I knew I would have fun, but it is just so cold, and I knew I would drink some wine, and so on. You know how it goes. I had a few glasses, pretty sure that isn't on the pouch test, but perhaps I took the liquid part to a whole new level? Thats why I didn't want to go in the first place. Well, its over. Perhaps I should do another day of liquids tomorrow? What do you think? Anyhow, thanks to all of you who have encouraged me to just say "no" sometimes. It's tough though! I'm going to work on it. I do not want to regret it ever. Lori~ So happy you had a wonderful time. It made me sad about your parents though. They are really missing out on one of the greatest miracles on earth. Hopefully they will come to their senses, but if not, at least you wont have any regrets. Safe travels! Laura~ Ok, I think I posted about what happened with my band, but it was awhile ago and I'm sure you missed it. I had a barium swallow and the placement of the band was not where it should be so the dr said it was a partial slip. He took most of the Fluid out, and said we would have to see what would happen. Since, I had some more put in, then some more, then had a little taken out, and now need to shrink the pouch back down to where it was, or at least try. I haven't had another BS since, so I'm not sure exactly as to the placement. I think that I can really identify with what you are going through now with your band. Arlene~ I hope everything works out ok with your mom. It sounds like you have it figured it out pretty well, thank goodness she has such a wonderful daughter as you. Linda and Cheri~ Thanks to you too for all of the information you have provided me with and for taking the time to write it all down. I think that the both of you have really got a handle on this whole carb issue. I know that you both have been talking about it for so long, but I am the kind of person that needs to see what works for me on my own. You know how that goes. So now, yes, I think that I am a definate believer in the no carb craze! I've noticed that once i introduced carbs back into my diet, things became more and more difficult. So, now, I am so thankful and happy for the 5DPT and for both of you pushing the no carbs. Apples~ Girl, you are living the life down there in AZ! I am so happy for you! Trust me, this weather is garbage. 4 degrees tonight and -9 tomorrow. I know where you live it is usually colder than it is here, so you are sooooo lucky! April and my Florida visit cannot come soon enough! Ok, sorry if I missed anyone, it was not intentional. I'm tired, but want to start reading a new book tonight. It's called "House Rules" by Jodi Picoult. Many of you may have read it. Night all~ Mere

Linda~ As I was posting about my week of liquids, I decided to do more research on your highly recommended 5-day pouch test. So I did. I read everything that you posted (Cheri too!) about it and decided that the pouch test was the way to go for me instead of the 700 cal plan. I think that I need to go by what everyone else thinks works, rather than what the dr thinks might be the way to go. I understand where he is coming from, but we know how our tool works from real life experience. Once I have my pouch where it should be again, I will better be able to do the plan my Dr wants. Do you agree? That week where I was eating between 700-900 cal everyday, and working out like a crazy person, I didn't lose a single solitary pound! I think my body was panicking and hanging on to the fat and going into starvation mode. What do all of you think about this? Melissa~ So glad you are feeling better. A fall is always so very scary! Glad you are going to be ok. I have some carpaltunnel issues in my wrists from doing hair for 10 years, so I hear ya! CBL~ Meredith

Laura~ WTH is wrong with people. When I saw that post I literally LOL! I think that whomever is "stalking" us has too much time on their hands. How annoying. I'm glad that you are feeling better. Acid reflux is no joke. It's awful. I had it when my band was giving me troubles and I get it. I didn't have it before though. Janet~ You go girl!!!!! Have fun with the girls on Friday! Envious of your fun times with one another. Linda~ Thank you for the kind thoughts this morning. I have had one slim fast so far today. The plan is to do this one week on, one week off. When I was really watching every calorie I put in my mouth in the beginning of this journey I would have my treats on Sundays, and I think I am going to do that again. So really, it is 6 days, but hey, whatever. Thanks again! Oh ya! Melissa~ Sorry about your fall! I didn't post about it! I'm sorry. How are you doing now? Well, I'm sorta frustrated today. I'm sick of everyone having something for me to do. After going to 12 weddings this summer, all between June 7th and Oct 30th, I am over it. Along with the weddings, there are the showers, the babies, doing the hair, the makeup, blah blah blah. And, all of this while going to school full time, and working almost full time. Anyhow, I'm ready for a break. Thats the reason why I took this semester off of school and kept my work schedule around 32 hours a week. It feels like there is always someone wanting me to do something and then making me feel guilty when I don't want to do it. Whew! VENT! Sorry. It's just that tonight one of the gals I work with wants me to go with her to see her cousin play with his band at a bar. Well, he plays every monday night and she has been badgering me to go for the last 4 weeks. I cherish my Monday-Wed nights with Andrew because we NEVER see one another and i make dinner and so on. She doesn't get it. So, needless to say, it gets quite annoying. She has told me several times this past week that she wants me to go tonight. We will see. I'm not driving because it is in the ghetto. Ok, I am so sorry! I just cannot really talk to anyone here about it. I just cannot help the rant. I get upset when others try to force me to do things. CBL, Hope all of you are having a great afternoon!!!! Thanks for "listening". ~Meredith

Ok, sorry I was so negative on my last post. I just had a rough day, and then there was the unpredicted snow. Anyhow, I too am with you gals! This morning my doctor suggested that I do one week of 700 calories of liquids (boost and yogurt) and exercise for 30 minutes on 4-5 of those days and see how much my body loses. He wants us to figure out exactly how many calories my body needs NOW to lose the last 20 lbs. I think this is a good plan, it is similar to the pouch test, but a little longer. Heck, if I could do 2 weeks of liquids pre-banding, I sure as heck can do it now! This will all start on Monday as tomorrow could be too tempting and I don't want to do that to myself. I'm excited now! I have that newbie feeling again! Melissa, hop on board with with me! We can do this together! Cheri and Linda~ Thank you both for the words of support that all of us need to hear. Now, can you band my brain? LOL Well, thats about all for now. Love you all! Meredith

This site is Bullsh!t. I'm so annoyed. I posted this huge long post before our thread disappeared and it posted, then I got an e-mail saying Laura responded to me, now it's completely gone. Ugh. So annoying! Anyhow, went to the dr this morning. Same weight that I have been for the past month. Its ok. Monday I am starting a new plan he put me on. I was at the Dr at 8 am, and had to work at 9. Just got home 30 mins ago at 7:30. I'm pooped. I put dinner in the oven and now am sitting on the couch. My knees hurt. It's gotta be the weather combined with standing on my feet in the same place for 10 hours. Plus, my shampoo girl was sick, so it was a ton of work today. I'm thankful though, I needed the money. We got 4 more inches of snow today! Where the hell does all of this snow come from? Poor Andrew shoveled. It seems like he spends his entire Saturday shoveling every week. Ok, well, I'm going to write to you all later like I did in my post that was lost, just don't really have the time now since din will be ready shortly. CBL~ Mere

Hello! Just got back from the grocery store. I usually go on Mondays, but let me tell you, today was like going to the grocery store on December 23rd! There weren't any spots in the lot except in the very last row. That didn't bother me since that is where I park anyhow. Then, there were no carts! People were running around the store, some in a panic just grabbing heaps of items off of the shelves. Insane. I'm prepared. I think. We will see. I already have the car in the garage, I'm not going anywhere! Lori~ So glad you had a nice time at the shower! Thanks for the article. Thats how I've always thought of the two stores because I do shop at both. I usually buy my plain tee's and long sleeved tops at Ann Taylor, and sweaters and stuff at the Loft, but never any slacks at either. For the last year or so people have been giving me pants, so hopefully I will like theirs. Sandy~ I am in for the 5k. I will begin training in May for a half marathon that I will be running in October in memory of my friends baby that was "born sleeping" on September 22nd this past year. So, this should be perfect! I'm excited! So glad you are staying home on Wednesday. I am too, and I'm sure a lot of other people will be doing the same. Melissa~ WTG on the tennis!!!! Andrew and I were just talking about joining the tennis club here! About Chicago~ I too would like to spend more time hanging out and talking rather than running around a ton. Shopping and stuff is fun, and the dinner cruise sounds great as well. More later. ~Meredith

Hello all! Wow! Wow! Wow! I just want to thank ALL of you for your kind words of support and encouragment with my potential career change. It is so hard for me to hit that "send" button!!! I just can't do it! I will have to force myself to do it tomorrow or Tuesday. It is just plain ol scary to me. But, You are all correct, I need to break through my comfort zone and try something new! We are preparing for a TON of snow Tues dinner time and ending Wed around noon. It makes me nervous. I don't have anywhere to go on those days, but Andrew drives to work 40+ miles each way and it is supposed to be worse near his work. I will send some blankets, a change of clothes, and some extra food with him just in case he gets stranded. Cheri, I hear you guys are supposed to get 20 inches and we are supposed to get about 15. So, brace yourself! I'm going to the grocery store tomorrow to get everything to make meals for the week. I do that on Mondays anyhow, but tomorrow the grocery store is going to be nuts! Ok, sorry, just a quickie. I've read everything, and like Phyl, I too have done some speed reading as well. More tomorrow. Love all of you! Meredith

Thanks girls! I'm just really nervous! I've never really applied for a job before. EVER. I know that sounds crazy, but every job that I've had kinda just fell into my lap. And, I've had this job for almost 9 yrs. I got this one because I went to the owner of the salon that I work at since I was 8 years old. So, we will see. I just have to finish my cover letters and I will submit the applications this weekend. It was hard to keep my mouth shut at work today because I'm excited and my customers and co-workers have all become so close. Janet~ Sorry about your BIL. Hugs. Lori~ My girlfriend posted this update on her fb today. It made me think of your DD. "If your baby is born now, it will not only be able to make an efficient transition from the womb to the outside, but it will also be able to resist disease. This day marks the end of eight months of pregnancy. You’re heading for the home stretch." Home stretch is right!!! Have a great time at the shower in your Ann Taylor outfit! BTW, I love Ann Taylor too! We have an Ann Taylor store about 5 miles away and LOFT 3 doors down from there! I love them both! I need to buy some nice slacks. What do you think of theirs? Cheri~ So glad to hear about all the grants and new ideas for your school! That is amazing news! Have a good night all! ~Meredith

Happy Birthday Janet!!!!!!!!!! You are the woman! And, of course, thank you for everything you do for all of us! Ok, so I've been around. Sorry I haven't posted. I've been a bit busy this week. I was driving home from a friends house on Monday afternoon and was thinking that it is time for a change! I wansn't sure what, but when I got home, I figured it out. And now, I'm in the process of a career switch! I can't tell anyone around me really, except mom, dad, andrew, etc. because my clients cannot find out yet. They would go into full blown panic mode if they knew this was going on right now. Technically, they have known that it was coming for a long time, but I think that they honestly think I will never make the jump. Well, guess what? I think it's time. I'm going to apply to two jobs tomorrow night when I get home from work. The first one is at the University I graduated from in Graduate Enrollment Services, and the second is with the Kidney Foundation of Michigan. I've been very busy working on my resume, reference lists, cover letters, and writing samples to submit. Does anyone have any suggestions? Please keep your fingers crossed for me! Thats about all that is going on around here. I've read all of your posts, but there is so much to comment on, I don't know if I can remeber it all! Just know that I love all of you! Night, Meredith

Hello all. I've been busy busy and haven't had time to post really. Thurs-Sat are crazy busy days with a ton to do at work. But, still, I would rather cram everything into 3, 12 hour days than spread it all out over 4 or 5. Had a 13th bday party today for Andrews bf's step-daughter. She is a sweet girl. It was actualy kind of nice. I was shocked. Usually there are 1,000 little kids running around screaming and we all sit in the basement. Today the adults sat upstairs, and it was GREAT! I just wanted some input on something real quick. Ok, so as most of you know, I have really been busting my butt at the gym, and eating between 800-1200 cals per day. The scale has NOT budged 1 pound! What the heck?????? I'm frustrated! What should I do? The same? Keep doing what I'm doing and hope it just melts off? I know that this doesn't happen over night, but it should move a little bit, right? Anyhow, sorry to complain, but these are the things that frustrate me during this journey. CBL~ Meredith

Eva~ I forgot to tell you this, but I was watching the Oprah All-Stars the other day and there was a woman on whose dog got very ill and needed to be put to sleep because he ate some type of cactus or something. It had a difficult name to remember, but Dr. Oz gave some other examples of plants that could be potentially fatal to dogs if ingested, and Oleander and Azela's were both on that list. I know that you have Oleander so I just wanted to give you a heads up. I know that dogs usually don't eat that stuff, but just in case. I'm kind of a worry wart. ~Meredith

Eva~ You figured me out! EEK! Yes, I'm a night owl, usually going to bed around 1 or 1:30. I've been like this my entire life. My dad is like this and so is my grandma. When I was in high school I used to go over to grandmas on school nights and watch the 11 o'clock news with her because #1, we were both awake and liked to chat, and #2, because it was the only place I could go after curfew and not get into trouble! But, I can stay up late and wake up early if I have to. Usually for work or school or whatever. I love that you are in school. I hate to say it, but I miss it already!!!! Enjoy! Linda~ WTG on your exercise too! Yay! So glad I'm back into the groove. If I don't go when I like to go, I will make every excuse in the book not to go at all. I want this weight off badly, so that is just not going to fly! Hugs on SD problems. So sad. Did she tell you why she was going to the ER in the first place? Did I miss something? I'm so happy that little Aylah has you. She is just beautiful. Arlene~ You didn't lose, but you didn't gain! So, thats good! You've had a lot going on the last few weeks with your mom, so you haven't been able to focus on you. Hopefully everything works out ok in that department. Hugs to you too! Apples and Janet~ Cannot stand this site and losing posts! The most annoying thing ever! I love hearing from the two of you, so it stinks for all of us. Laura~ Girl, I hear ya with the bloat and crabbiness and all of the rest! It's been me since Monday. Hopefully it will be over today. Gotta love the BC. Sometimes when I have a dinner, then a sf fudgsicle or whatever later on, that happens to me too. Did the Dr take out a lot last time you went in? My band slipped a little bit and it made the pouch a little bit bigger, but its not dangerous I guess. Last time I had a fill, he only put in .2cc's and I had to have them taken out less than a week later bc of the acid. Now, I don't feel like I can find my "sweet spot". But, do you think that you are at yours? Ok, nothing new, just wanted to pop in and say "hello". Going to get moving and get to the grocery store in a bit to pick up stuff to make dessert. Apparently its a Weight Watchers version of Ambrosia salad. I remember my mom making it years ago and just found it in my cook book that she made me. According to the old school WW points it is 1c.= 1 point I'm going to have to figure out the calories when I get all of the ingredients later. Here is the recipe: - 1 box SF/FF vanilla pudding - 1 15 oz. pineapple Tidbits (drained) - 1 15oz. Mandarin Oranges (drained) - 2 8oz. lite vanilla yogurt - 1 8oz. Cool Whip Lite or Fat free Mix dry pudding with fruit - blend in yogurt and cool whip.

Just got back from the gym and took a shower. I've decided that I like what I used to like, and that is going at night time. Whatever works, right? I did 45 min on the recumbant bicycle, 15 min on treadmill, planks, and arms. Feels good. Food for the day: BF~ Slim Fast Snack~ laughing cow cheese Lunch~ "Taco Salad" no chips or shell or anything, just lots of lettuce, gr beef, tomato, black olives, 1/4 c. lf shredded cheddar cheese, lf sour cream, ortega taco sauce. Dinner~ Small slice of meat loaf Snack~ Grapes Cals for the day= 894 Apples~ I agree, this site is "sucky" now. Let them know we are NOT pleased! Night all~ Meredith

Apples~ Thanks for the lecture! LOL. Even when I read Melissas name before it I knew it was for me! My whole point is that "events" and parties do not allow me to make my own decisions about what I'm going to eat. I'm kind of a control freak in the menu department and cook at least 4 time per week minimum and calculate all of the calories going in so I know exactly what I'm eating. I really want to get this last 20 lbs off and maintain, so I feel I need to be really strict. I'm glad I came back. Thank you for being there for me. Melissa~ So glad you got a new monitor!!! Yipee! Hope you enjoyed your day. Eva~ Keep being so wonderful to Apples, and all of us will be down there before you know it! LOL. Have a good time back at school! I'll bet it is so much better when you get to go for fun!!!! Laura~ I must agree, cute pic!!!! Jessica~ Good luck with the new doctor. It did sound like you needed a change. I hope it goes as well as you are hoping. Wait..... wasn't your MIL the one giving you the hard time when you were going to get LB? Linda~ Thanks for the stuff from Kaye Bailey. I think it helps all of us with reminders like that. I'm so glad to here that your ultrasound went well. I will be praying for good results. Janet~ At least with the e-mails we knew you were alive! LOL Ok, CBL~ Meredith

This site is harassing me so badly and posted twice, now it won't let me delete the post! It is forcing me to post somthing now! Ugh!

Wow! It is quiet around here! Usually all of you girls are on here junking up the place! Great~ I think it is called Seasonal Affective Disorder (aka: SAD). I swear that I get it too! It is so crappy here and freezing. I stay in the house more when it is crappy out and there isn't as much daylight plus, its dreary most of the winter. I'm glad you are feeling better now! Our Christmas lights are also frozen to the house and bushes. It's only going to get worse because tonight and in the a.m. we are supposed to get sleet, snow, and freezing rain. It makes me nervous cause Andrew drives 40 miles each way to and from work. Enjoy your sunshine and have a nice visit tomorrow in Denver! Went to the gym today. Did 40 minutes on the recumbant bicycle, planks, crunches, and some dumbell work with my arms. It felt great! I also went to the grocery store to stock up for the week. Made a quiche for my mom and dad and now ours is in the oven. Should be delish. Food for the day so far: BF~ Slim Fast Lunch~ salad w/ olive oil and cider vinegar, salt and pepper Dinner~ Ham and swiss quiche (just a sliver) Haven't calculated my cals yet, prob around my limit of 1000. CBL

Happy Birthday Melissa! Slept in and went to the b-day party today. It was ok. There was too much food there. I had some white chicken chili, salad, and a few meatballs. I also had a small piece of cake and gave the ice cream to Andrew. Like he needed it. LOL Andrew and I decided that next weekend we will hang out just the two of us. He is on call, so we won't really be able to go anywhere or do anything, but we will hang out at home and spend some quality time together. Much needed! I feel like we hardly ever see one another because we are both just so super busy with other things going on. Lori~ Yes, the shower was for my GF that is due the same day as your daughter. It was very nice and they gave out potted ivy as favors, which I really liked. I really hope that your shower drama is over with DD's MIL. Hopefully the shower that your sister is giving is legit, and like you said, she doesn't have any alterior motives. Maybe she is trying to turn over a new leaf? Ugh, thank goodness someone understands how I feel about all of these things going on with other peoples life "events". Not only do I feel like "when is it my turn?", but it is so super duper expensive! I don't think these friends realize just how much I have spent on them and their events. Sheesh! I sound like a jerk, but please believe me when I tell you I'm not a selfish person. Laura~ Glad you are back gf and glad that you are having some time to yourself! It is well deserved! I got all of the Christmas stuff down inside, but it is still up outside. I don't turn the lights on tho! LOL. I was about to take them down and then it snowed! Oh, forget it! You are right! I am all or nothing. If I have one or two crappy food choice days, I feel like I've sabotaged myself for the rest of my life. Little exaggeration, but you know how it goes. I like the metaphor that you gave. It is perfect for the situation that I somtimes find myself in. Eva~ Amen sister! 2 years, 5 years, hey, at least we have a plan, right? Glad you are having fun with Karen and can't wait to hear how school is going! Sandy~ Thank you! Yes, I have gone through a ton of positive changes this year! I'm so glad that we can be together on this site. It helps so very much. So glad that you get to go on vacation! You are going to have a wonderful time! Linda~ I too saw your GD on FB. She is absolutely adorable!!!! You must feel so blessed! Also, thanks to you too! Somtimes i just need to sit back and look at everything that I have accomplished this year. Thank you for pointing that out. You know, at times it feels like just one thing matters and that that one thing cannot be accomplished. Then, wonderful people like you step in and make me look back and see everything that I have accomplished and that I can do it! You have given me a renewed perspective on my next leg of this journey. Julie~ Sorry you are having such troubles with your pain. It is not good for you to be on all of these painkillers day in and day out. It worries me. They can be so addicting. I certainly hope that these new doctors can do somthing for you to help and to figure out the cause. Thanks to you too! Apples~ I miss your green ink junking up the thread. Cheri~ I enjoyed your pics on FB Jodi~ So jealous that you get to visit with the girls!!! Have so much fun and enjoy the warmth! Sorry if I've missed anyone. I have to make A's lunch and go to bed. Tomorrow starts my routine back to the gym! Finally some time for me! Yipee! I've decided I'm really going to enjoy it and make it my me time. Good night all, Meredith

Oh man! Wish it was warm here! So envious of your weather right now Apples, Eva, Janet, and Phyl! Its about 7 degrees here and will stay that way all week. It was sunny out today, so there are icicles hanging from the eaves. They are pretty, but sheesh its cold! So, I've been so obsessed with why I'm caving in and eating things that I normally would not when I'm on the train. Well, hello Meredith! It's going to be that time of the month on Monday or Tuesday I crave the sweets at this time! I just cannot obsess about it because every TOM I gain about 3 lbs Water weight and then it disappears! Thank goodness! Ok, sorry, TMI. Looks like everyone is doing well. The shower really was so nice today and it really got me excited for the arrival of the baby. Watching a special about Celiene Dion on OWN. Its pretty good. I'm up very late because I fell asleep after the shower, now I'm wide awake! Of course. Melissa~ I always think that I would like to freeze stuff. Especially chicken. So I do, then I forget about it and 6 months later when I'm cleaning out the fridge, I find it and get so angry because I'm wasting. I would so much rather have fresh. But, in the case of making chicken salads and such, I can see where you would want to put it away. Cheris right, veggies in freezer do not fare well. What did you put into the salad? We are supposed to go to a 50th birthday party tomorrow. This is going to sound bad, but frankly, I'm kinda sick of going to all of these events for people. It makes me sound selfish, but there never ends up being any time for Andrew and myself. He works so much, so the weekends are our only time to have "dates" and we haven't had time to do that lately. I just want a day for us, but there is always something in the "plans". Sorry about my rant. I know many of you can identify. Night~ love to you all!~ Meredith

Cheri~ It wasn't drinking any wine or anything like that when the band was too tight, it was after. I know how it feels when it is too tight now and this was definately that "feeling". After I was so sick with my band too tight and having reflux every night for that month, I never want to feel like that again. It caused that partial slip that I had. It's only when I'm too tight that I get reflux. I have never gotten it from food. I don't consider myself semi-vegetarian, I just sometimes don't like the taste of meat. It depends I guess. Usually my salads will have chicken on them. Yesterday it did. But I don't do much dairy. It makes me have gas. TMI. I do love cheese, but I limit it very strictly. The dr just took out a super small amount, he said almost "unmeasurable". I feel like I make better choices when I am able to eat a wider variety of foods. Eva~ Thanks girl. Its tough, but I know I can't beat myself up over it. I have come to the point where I'm ok with the weight loss slowing down. I'm wanting to have it off by my 2 year bandiversary which is June 26th. I feel like that is realistic. Right? Linda~ Once again, thanks to you too! I needed you girls and your positive feedback. I do make much better choices now. Its amazing compared to what I would have eaten before. Good point! I'm going to take a little nap now. Just got back from the shower not long ago. It was very nice. Open house style. CBL~Meredith

Hello All! Sorry I've been absent. I've been lurking around and reading, but haven't posted for 2 days or so. The night before last I threw up twice and had terrible acid reflux. I knew that since I got my fill last Saturday, it was because I was too tight. And, as you all know, I've had such problems the two times before when I stayed too tight for too long. Anyhow, I had my band loosened about .2 cc's. Yesterday I did alright during the day time and then had 2 glasses of wine after dinner. But, that was ok and I'm sure that even with those 2 glasses I was way under 1200 cal, so I'm ok with that. Today was another story! I had slim fast for breakfast, a salad at lunchtime and then went to a 1 year memorial mass for my friends mother who passed away a year ago. You all may remember when she disappeared after church into the lake and her body was found about 3 months later. Anyhow, there was a typical Catholic mass, followed by a dinner. The dinner was like a wedding reception! It was UNREAL! Hot pink linens with hot pink chair covers, white sashes, hors d'ovres, open bar, HUGE buffet, and dessert complete with chocolate fountain. I was not prepared for all of this! I ate dinner, not terribly bad, but still, I feel guilty because I had a brownie and rice krispie treat. Then, I have a baby shower tomorrow. I think I will stick to salad there. Ugh. I've been doing so well, and I just disappointed myself today. It's ok, tomorrow is a new day. Right? I have developed a new exercise plan. Mon-Wed somtime during the day after I get up, it's time for the gym. Thurs, day off, Friday after work, gym, Sat off, Sun off. I need to start off slow, and 4 days a week will do just fine for me right now. Arlene~ I'm glad your mom has decided to stay in the nursing home for a bit longer and then hire someone. It probably will help to put your mind at ease and take some of the pressure off so you can focus on yourself. Apples and Eva~ Girls, lets face it, I am envious of your fun times!!!!! Keep it up! Sounds like you are having a great time. Love it. Lori~ Your DD's MIL never ceases to amaze, does she? Wow. Hugs. Hope it gets worked out. Your DD does not need the added stress. Janet~ I agree sister! I would rather do an all inclusive cruise for $900-$1000. Hopefully we can make Chicago work for the majority of us! Linda~ My heart just breaks when I read about your SD and her troubles. It's a shame that she is putting her body through all of this! She has a beautiful daughter that she is missing out on. I'm so glad that you are there for that sweet child! What a blessing. Ok, it's getting late, its freezing, yet again, and we are getting more snow tonight (AGAIN)! I'm nervous since the baby shower is almost an hour away without sh!tty weather. So, we will see. Goodnight all. Sorry about all of the ramblings. I just was (am) so upset with myself after I "failed" with food today.

Our brains are connected. I swear. I made tacos for dinner tonight! Everyone had the hankering for Mexican today, Huh? Apples~ Thank you for sharing about Eva's house. I would love love love to see it! I am an artsy fartsy type, but never have done tile work and am so super interested in it. I know Eva could teach me a lot about it! Also, thank you for the suggestion for more calories. For the last couple of days I've been super tight and haven't been able to get much down. Tonight though I was able to eat a makeshift taco salad, so that was good. Thank you all for sharing your parental stories with us, and sorry about the troubles. Do we have the dates for Chicago written in stone yet? Just curious. It is 7* here! 7! Unreal. I DID NOT shovel. It was sooo cold out my fingers felt like they were going to crack off after being outside for 2 minutes while cleaning my car off. We are supposed to get more snow tomorrow and this weekend, so I'm not worried about it. I sure wish that guy across the street would come over and do mine!!!! This guy is a machine. I swear. He shovels so fast! Anyhow, the rambling begins again. Here is my food for the day: Breakfast~ Slim Fast (I am obsessed with them now) Lunch~ Orange Hi-C drink ( I was tooo tight to have anything else, i know, its bad, but I counted it in my calories) Dinner~ Taco Salad (all toppings included in calories) So, about 1200 cal today. I will take it, since the last few days I haven't eaten much. They key for me is to vary them. I know Janet says it all of the time. Its true. If I eat fewer calories, then one day have a day like today, I seem to lose. Saturday I had a planned cupcake and woke up Sunday lighter, so lets hope.... Night all.

Apples~ Sorry, I missed your check in post the first time. Glad you made it safe and sound. It sounds like you are enjoying it already and fitting right in! I could never imagine living far away from stores and such. I live 2 blocks from the grocery store and will walk in the summertime with my little cart. It looks funny, but I don't care. Have a good time with Eva today! Wish I could be there! It is freezing here as well and my car is covered in snow since I didn't put it into the garage. Ugh. You are NOT missing out! Trust me! Enjoy. Oh, also, you are completely right! I feel so much better now that I am back on track and feeling good about my weight loss so far. However, not so happy about my lack of motivation to go exercise. I am confident that it will happen. Have fun!!!! Sandy & Arelene~ So sorry about the stuggles with the parents. I see my father struggling with the same thing every day. Just this morning he went and did all of grandmas snow for her. He pretty much takes her a meal every single day as well. I also see the same thing with her wanting the "free" services. Last year she wanted her taxes done for free from the local senior center at the library. Well, we didn't know that they only did 10 per day or whatever and it was first come first serve. I ended doing them for her. That was the first time I ever did anyone elses taxes and now, I pay my tax guy to do mine! I just hope that all of these stressors ease up for you guys. I'm sorry you both are going through such a tough time. Lori~ The 5 generation pic will be awesome! What a wonderful thing! I think that nowadays it is pretty rare. Ok, well, I've been putting off doing the snow and going to the grocery. I just do not want to go out in this crap. I keep looking at the guys driveway across the street. Before it started snowing again a few min ago his drive was completely dry! I don't get it! I swear he must have a heated drive and sidewalk or something! LOL! After I did the drive last night it snowed some more and now I have another 2 inches on it. What is this guys secret!?!?! Haha! I'm turning into an old lady now! Being in the house for a few days will do this I guess. Only had 1/4 of the grapefruit last night. So, I think I only had 650 cal yesterday. I just wasn't hungry at all. So far today I have only had a slim fast. I guess I'm still not hungry today either. But, I will make Andrew his tacos for dinner. I will just have a little meat, lettuce, and taco sauce. Ok, now I'm rambling. More later.

Hello all. Eva~ Oh, I see! I guess I missed that somewhere along the line. You gals are going to have so much fun! I think she will have a good time getting everything situated the way she likes it. Janet~ Thank you! I just have to get my butt in gear and get to the gym again. After I sprained my ankle in mid-November it definately has not been the same and still causes me some pain. I'm just going to have to get in there and get on the recumbant bike and do some work with the weights. Sandy~ Thanks to you as well! It's tough, but now that I'm back in the swing of things, its not as bad. It is definately a way of life and not a diet. Lori~ So glad you got some shoes sister! I totally understand "retail therapy". Story of my life. So glad it snowed today or else I would have been out there running around buying something. Instead I shoveled and got some exercise. By the time I was done shoveling, I had to turn around and do it all over again! Ugh. I thought that my gf and your DD due dates were close to one another! I didn't realize they were on the same day. Try to relax about the shower. It will be ok. Cheri~ Take it easy gf. Hope you feel better soon. It stinks when you aren't feeling 100%, but still have to function like you are at 100%. Ugh. Hugs. Melissa~ Hope you had a fun day! Arlene~ Sorry about your moms wrist. Hopefully you can get something figured out for her so she can get back on track. Poor thing. Today I enjoyed day #2 of not being in classes. It was alright. I organized several drawers and got all of the bills from 2010 in their designated envelopes and filed away. I labeled and organized the envelopes for the bills for 2011, so we are ready to go. I don't do bills online. I do it the old school way, checks, envelopes, stamps, and all. Andrew thinks I'm nuts, I think I'm more organized this way like my mom. After all of that was squared away, I shoveled, turned around and had to shovel again! Salted the drive, as I found that the spots that were already salted from last weeks snow cleared more easily than other areas. Came in, showered, and made dinner for Andrew and I. Thats about it. Very uneventful. Andrew told me how much he loved "no school Meredith" because he gets a great home cooked meal every night. Can't blame him! food for the day~ Breakfast: Slim Fast Lunch: sf fudgsicle, sparkling cherry juice Dinner: Baked chicken breast, barilla plus Protein penne Pasta, marinara sauce Snack: ? Probably will have a grapefruit with a little bit of sugar on top. not more than 35 cal worth tho! So far have only eaten about 550-600 cal. I will prob get up to about 750 with the grapefruit and "topping". Going to play in the snow tomorrow with the kiddies! Night, Meredith