NYSparklegirl

Hi all.....well I hope everyone is well....been reading some of the e-mails sent....and sorry about all the trouble but seems like we the thread is back on again. For now..... Its been a while...but have been so darn busy havent had a moment to read, or post so forgive me.....hoping things are a little calmer now. Tomorrow im going for a unfil. Its time. Ive had enough episodes to know that I am now eating soft Proteins and beginning to eat not great choices just to make sure that im not going to get stuck or sick....etc so I dont get stuck, start gurgling, and get the hicups and it could happen after a spoonful of soft something or after a few bites of hard Protein...but im beginning to feel like its time to get that 1/4 fill taken out. Should have done it months ago....and after CA decided..really dont want to worry about if this is going to be the bite that ill throw up.....my luck that would happen on a first date. Not a good thing.....nope......but its the hicups and gurgles and hurting that is making me get it!!! Hope im doing the right thing. I get the hicups after pretty much every meal no matter how small or big...soooo its time!!!! Last week got all the invitations out with the labels and all....recieved all the favors, masks and centerpieces, decided to have a magician for 45 min as entertainment....instead of a DJ or photo booth. We thought it would be a good accompanment to the masquerade theme. The dress came in and it is gorgeous...a real princess dress. Dassi loves it. The Made appointments for hair and nails for that morning and the only thing left is to deal with the food packages that we will be packing for the organization that will give them out that next week to the rusian students on campus from the Hillel House. Other then that.....my dress, which will get at the Gmach gowns....I saw several gorgeous ones that I could love!! We got to Cockatiels for Dassis Bat Mitzvah from someone in the community that didnt want theirs any longer....they are two years old and are sweet!!! Since we are dogless now.....and I really cant get another dog..Dassi has been asking about Cockatiels but they arent cheap so.....when talking about this someone overheard and said they had a friend who really wanted to give theirs away that they got as presents and the father took care of them only and really didnt want to any longer......so we took them. I bought them a larger new cage and all new accessories.....Dassi is loving them and they are making this house a lively house with lots of music!! They sing and whistle the loveliest tunes. They arent fully hand trained yet but love to be pet and can sit on shoulder for hours on end. They dont talk yet but they will!!! Okay, my allocation of time is up and the computer is being hijacked by Dassi so need to sign off......but glad to have posted..... Lori glad the shower went well, enjoy all the room decorating and stuff....the best part of having a baby is this part so enjoy it with your daughter!!!! Julie hope you feel better Eva and Karen you enjoy your upcoming visit with Janet and Phyl!! Cheri feel better!! Luara dont feel bad about the unfil I know ive missed everyone else.....im sorry hope all is well!!! ="5"] Hi all.....well I hope everyone is well....been reading some of the e-mails sent....and sorry about all the trouble but seems like we the thread is back on again. For now..... Its been a while...but have been so darn busy havent had a moment to read, or post so forgive me.....hoping things are a little calmer now. Tomorrow im going for a unfil. Its time. Ive had enough episodes to know that I am now eating soft proteins and beginning to eat not great choices just to make sure that im not going to get stuck or sick....etc so I dont get stuck, start gurgling, and get the hicups and it could happen after a spoonful of soft something or after a few bites of hard protein...but im beginning to feel like its time to get that 1/4 fill taken out. Should have done it months ago....and after CA decided..really dont want to worry about if this is going to be the bite that ill throw up.....my luck that would happen on a first date. Not a good thing.....nope......but its the hicups and gurgles and hurting that is making me get it!!! Hope im doing the right thing. I get the hicups after pretty much every meal no matter how small or big...soooo its time!!!! Last week got all the invitations out with the labels and all....recieved all the favors, masks and centerpieces, decided to have a magician for 45 min as entertainment....instead of a DJ or photo booth. We thought it would be a good accompanment to the masquerade theme. The dress came in and it is gorgeous...a real princess dress. Dassi loves it. The Made appointments for hair and nails for that morning and the only thing left is to deal with the food packages that we will be packing for the organization that will give them out that next week to the rusian students on campus from the Hillel House. Other then that.....my dress, which will get at the Gmach gowns....I saw several gorgeous ones that I could love!! We got to Cockatiels for Dassis Bat Mitzvah from someone in the community that didnt want theirs any longer....they are two years old and are sweet!!! Since we are dogless now.....and I really cant get another dog..Dassi has been asking about Cockatiels but they arent cheap so.....when talking about this someone overheard and said they had a friend who really wanted to give theirs away that they got as presents and the father took care of them only and really didnt want to any longer......so we took them. I bought them a larger new cage and all new accessories.....Dassi is loving them and they are making this house a lively house with lots of music!! They sing and whistle the loveliest tunes. They arent fully hand trained yet but love to be pet and can sit on shoulder for hours on end. They dont talk yet but they will!!! Okay, my allocation of time is up and the computer is being hijacked by Dassi so need to sign off......but glad to have posted..... Lori glad the shower went well, enjoy all the room decorating and stuff....the best part of having a baby is this part so enjoy it with your daughter!!!! Julie hope you feel better Eva and Karen you enjoy your upcoming visit with Janet and Phyl!! Cheri feel better!! Luara dont feel bad about the unfil I know ive missed everyone else.....im sorry hope all is well!!! Jodi[/size]

Hi all.... Am back from CA. Vacation was amazing....relaxing and the weather absolutely gorgeous!!! We went on a two day excursion to San Diego and the rest of the time we spent doing some great things in Palm Desert. Had a wonderful visit with Janet and Phyl and her husband and Zoey. Janet has a beutiful house and that girl can cooook!!! Those who have facebook can check out the photos from the week...havent figured out yet how to upload on here as of yet!!! Need time for that! Been a very busy week with unpacking and getting back to life...shopping, washing etc. We got the invitations and all the favors and center pieces for the bat mitzvah and today am picking up labels and stamps so will be busy getting them all out by end of the week and then can breathe maybe. lol Just wanted to post...hoping tomorrow is a snow day so can finish all the work that I have for invoices as today is 1st so can catch up and get it all done together by end of week...frankly dont see that happening till Sunday. lol but, will try!!! Hope all is well with everyone. Havent had time to read any posts and couldnt get on computer at my dads.....since my daughter and his wife and himself shared it all week and I could not get to it...thank god had my BB and was able to facebook and get emails! Well...must get going just wanted to say HI......and let you all know I havent dissapeared forever! Just for a bit longer till things settle down. Foods are good.....not discussing the workouts. achum but know that I better get back on track soon or else Im jeapordizing all that ive worked so hard for. Have a great day all Jodi

GM all... Just finished reading all the posts from Friday on.....so many ideas flying around.......thanks so much for sharing. Sometimes Im afraid ill miss a post with some idea, concept or new recipe that I try to read every post even if its a week late. OCD too. lol MLK day today and all the yeshivahs have school....its one of those days that I really dont want to send Dassi to school on principle because he was such an important figure for our country...why they dont acknowelge this I will never understand.....but, cant keep her home because I need to work as well and if I chose to be on her calendar and not the BOE calendar....off to work I go unhappily. This past weekend..busy, busy. busy. Dassi had three bat mitzvahs....Friday night, Sat night and Sunday all day. Too add to those she slept at a friend who lives around the corner who hosted several girls that dont live in walking distance to go to the Friday night Bat Mitzvah that was taken place at out synaguage. They invited her as well back to the house afterwards where they had a slumber party....then she went back in the afternoon for lunch and playtime....She came home to shower and change for the Sat night affair of another girl that took place at a different synaguage. Thank god I do not have to drive alone back and forth to take her to all these affairs!!! There are 42 girls and therefore 42 Bat Mitzvah celebrations in one year...meaning....pretty much every weekend for a full year there would be at least 1 or 2 affairs! Fun for the girls!! Not fun for the parents. So, we have bat mitzvah car pools...as a matter of fact we have car pools for every event with different kids of course depending on the activities.....where there is maybe once a month for drivng either to or from an event. One car pool for art club after school....this is 4 kids together.....then there is the no bussing days, like today there is no transportation because its MLK day and they are off....Chrsitmas day, and easter day etc etc. this car pool is with the five kids that wait at the bus stop together. Then....we have bat mitzva car pool that has 6 kids together that live in the near neighborhood.....so ive got postings of car pool lists hanging on the fridge... .yesturday I picked up from the afternoon bat mitzvah and realized on the way home OMG I forgot one kid!!! Stopped the car and said.....wheres Rivka????? Holy #$%^...but they all shouted together that she wasnt there at alll.....apparently she couldnt make it to this bat mitzvah....conflict. WEW...that would have been bad....but why didnt I know this before hand! lol. Too confusing!! Not to mention the out of town Bat Mitzvhas from Camp.....that is another car pool with only one other person though. That sucks but there are only a handful of those in any case. SO, your probably thinking....so what did I do while the darling little thing was out partying till 11/12 at night? and all day Sunday?? hmmmm lets see..... to answer Laura and Linda...indeed "go out" I set up three dates...now dont laugh, One for Sat night, one for late morning Brunch on Sunday and a late lunch for Sunday afternoon. lol well.....it was indeed tiring....cant do that again. as hard as it is keeping car pool in order.....try adding a date schedule to that each weekend!!! I dont know how I was able to keep their names straight!! Well......Turns out didnt like the Sunday late morning guy.....he was like leering at my the whole time...checking me out visibly...I hate that and he was just , I dont know. Just didnt like him at all. The Sunday afternoon guy..was a really nice guy but just so negative about everything.....however could see being friends with him. He was entertaining if nothing else. The sat night guy...his name was Robert....he I liked I think. He was nice and funny....and cute. Him ill go out with again.....now the guy I went out with last weekend....Thursday and Sunday....decided nope....he is a really nice guy but I kind of feel like he is just going through the motions of doing what he should be doing on dates and the phone call afterwards but....he is just kind of awkward.. no demonstration of what his reall personality is like so.....not interested.. They all want to go out again.....but but i dont want to except for the Sat night guy....Robert. Guess what??? I dont know how to tell them I dont want to. I feel bad. I dont want to hurt their feelings. I dont know how to say "no" in the best of situations and I havent been in this situation really for a long long time!!! SO HELP? Laura, talk about soap box!! Foods have been good....even going out. Have had fish or Greek salad. SO....no problems and good eating. Exercise not great...and probably wont have time till CA this week as Ill be running from work to packing to reg sched program. Still maintaining the 145 lbs. but must get back to exercising not just running around. Although all the walking is exercise. Walking each day..at least 15-1/2 hr. But I know need more then that. Chirs....great on the 5lbs!!! Sorry to hear about your dads continued difficulties...hope things get better. Janet.....are those restaurants that have some sort of certification that they kosher? Can you get me the phone numbers for them.....I dont care what kind they have....as long as its something....then my daughter will eat there. We have serveral delis that are open on sat but they have a rabbi of some sort saying the food is kosher....thats good enough for me. She will be okay with that as well....she doesnt need to know her rabbi at school wouldnt eat there however, there are all different levels that people hold to .....Im at the level of dont ask dont tell. lol if theres a sign that says it is...then heck it is! thats just me however. lol Hypocrite that I am. Shes a little more stringent.....but shel be okay with that sign as well out of town. Cant wait to see you guys. So let me know if Sat night is good for you.....and Phyl for you. Phyl, perhaps we can also get together during the day...I know Janet is working but....maybe we can another day during the week..... Joyce, I hope that you feel better soon....youve been having such a hard time lately...perhaps a little bit taken out even will help. They say that even that could do the trick but reflux is not good as it really can do damage.....so you dont want that to happen. Better to be healthy and eat healthy and not feel sick, or bad all the time....you got the band to get healthy....dont let it become a major source of health problems in the future that these problems can cause...this is what my doctor told me when I was having such a hard time two months ago. So....take care of this....and dont feel like youd be a failure to take out even all the fill and begin over. It willl be worth it and you will get back on track and begin to progress and reach those goals....heck you didnt do this for nothing. Make sure its working for you the correct way!! Karen glad you are having a great time.....Looks like it was a good decision to visit AZ. Lori.....sounds like you have made your decisions and are sticking to them....who cares why your sister wants to do something....I figure heclk its more attention and presents for your DD....who could use all the pampering and attention she can get now!! I do hear you on the what is the ulteriur motive but....if there is one youl here about it soon enough. In the meantime enjpy and when that time comes....youl deal with it then and hopefully it never will. Julie....hope you get back to Mayo fast.... Melissa and Meredith you guys are doing amazing!!!! Keep up the great work! Sandy, enjpy the vacation to the warm cayman isles....take some sunshine in a bottle home for dad. Cherri..you sound a lot chipper these past few weeks....Im hearing your getting back to yourself after all thats been happening I hope you are feeling better it certainly sounds that way....youve been through so much this year so far...so thoughts and prayers are with you still. Okay must run to work reallly now! Have a great day all. Jodi

Hi..... Hope everyone is okay.....Dont have time to post much now....as we are packing for CA wanted to touch base about time to meet....Janet and Phyl. Yes, Jan 22nd would be perfect. My dad will babysit so I can go out alone. yea. Perhaps you can meet Dassi another time during the week or so.... but.....if this is good for Phyl as well then its a plan!!! I will have a car so Ill be able to drive wherever...... Do you both have my cell number??? I have both yours. Will be leaving on Thursday morning at some point..not even sure yet lol. Have the tickets but didnt even look!! Must go shopping tomorrow for some sandals. I saw a pair that I like at Jildor...that I really liked and they are on sale now during the winter....last years style....who cares. read half the posts since I posted last...and havent finished all of them...so will post hopefully by tomorrow!! Okay then Have a great night all..... Jodi

Hi Joe, Yes, I was in great hands. lol I had the surgery this past Feb. When did you have your surgery? I have lost 80lbs and the staff at Mercy and at the office has been amazing. Do you go to the attend the monthy support groups? If not you should. You should join the thread "Mentors" I have gotten most of my daily support from the people on this thread. They have become like an extended familiy and we have set up weekends throughout the year that we get together and meet at different places throughout the US. Jodi

Hi all.....Another day home....no school!!! Just for 6 inches!!! So....just catching up on everything again!!!! Went to the doctor to get results of the lab works from last month...and NO MORE CHOLESTEROL PILLS!!! So, now no more pills at all. Yea yea yea....still 145 and blood pressure great.....all is good and he couldnt be happier...actually hugged me hes so happy...he was the once who convinced me to get the lap band. Foods...okay Proteins, veggies and some corn pops natural with Protein..bakes 140 cal per 2.5 cups, home so food is here!! not good but....control control!! Exercise...not good...havent been able to get there this week...gotta get back into it but....having such a hard time!!! okay berate.....me!! I need it. But been busy with bat mitzvah and dates and no snow..... I know no excuse but it is what it is. OH....Phyiliis....didnt realize that you were also in Palm Desert.....is Palm Springs close by??? Joyce...would have loved to see you as well!!! But...six hours away?? Could understand why you wouldnt want to come on over!!! Would anyone lilke to have a weekend though? I will be arriving on the 20th. there for two weekends...the 23rd and the 28th. Leaving on Sunday the 30th. If Arizona isnt that far maybe we can meet in the middle? Is there a middle between Arizona and Palm Desert? and please dont tell me LV...cause that is a deff NOOO. lol So...when ever you and Janet want to get together....or we can get together seperate...I know Janet works but during the day...I will have a car so can travel. NOT TO VEGAS. sorry. Dassi of course will be with me....but maybe not at night....and Friday-Sat Sundown to Sundown....shabbos. Other then this we really dont have any organized plan....I do know that Dassi would love to see all the dog stories and photos that ive shown her on facebook!! A day of shopping would be nice too!!! I actually have a stop over going on Thursday in "TX"..for two hours and "Chicago" for two hours coming back on the Sunday the 30th....if anyone is near the airport...would love to see you guys. Lori.....I am hearing you loud and clear.....my family....grrr sometimes. My gut feeling is like everyone elses and yours.....keep the date. If she doesnt want to come well.....thats just too bad. however....nothing to do with the above reasons....regarding the date in general.......... Igeneral alot of jews do not even prepare a thing for the baby until they are born. I think thats crazy..as the thought of having to run and do everything the second that baby is born is enough to drive someone insane......but at least have all the basics to be ready....so we buy all the basics and have everything ready in someone elses house....not to be brought in to the house at all....so god fobid something happens.....then there wont be anything there in the house when you get home....and of course if all goes well as should......then all the stuff is brought in and the shower is held and so on...so in general I dont think its a good idea to have any parties or preparing except for the first weeks needs....and thats only in the last weeks before baby is born. Am well aware that the doctors are happy with your DD progress and the medications are working etc and have said that everything is great, I would hate to god forbid for her to have something planned and she couldnt make the party because she will be on bed rest at that time. I know from my own experience that at 3 months when there was problems...and the meds worked but regardless at 28 weeks....I was put on bed rest and couldnt get out of bed for the duration and even then I went into labor at 34/2 weeks...so my feelings is to generally wait but thats just what "we do" so I follow that premise....I do remember once mentioning to my mom that I wanted to order everything...just order and have them deliver everything after....and oh boy...did I get a mouthful. Never mentioned it again. Bottom line is you have to be comfortable with what you and your family practice.....and if having the shower before is what you and your daughter and hostess has decided then thats what you should do!! Laura, I see the red flags are going up.....trust that gutt feeling. Glad you met someone else at the party hey you never know..he might have done you a favor by not being there.....dont you feel like your a teenager again??? I feel like a different person.....and going out on dates is a whole new experience that is both fun and exciting....to think that Jeff was even a runner makes me laugh. lol. sorry....he was nice to everyone I know....and he does put on a good show no pun intended. lol. But, the more time you spend the more time you get to know that people dont change so if you suspect a gambling problem......then remember that an addict is a behavior...that crosses over to other addictions.....so please please be careful....dont want you to become the co addict as we know we here who have been banded know is so easy for some of us to become as we are all addicts ourselves to foods esp. More important.....go and have fun and experience, experience, experience!!! Julie, so glad to see you!!! Glad you are busy...hope you keep feeling a little better....but sorry about kiddies hope they are better soon!! Eva....and Lori thank you so much for the websites.....I checked both sites out!! Etsys was a little out of my league but thanks for giving me a new site that has gorgeous stuff!!! I bought somethings allready for myself! lol. I did find through the other site...other sites as you suggested and found "Shindigz", where we will end up ordering great favors and center pieces for great prices!!! Thanks...so much!!!! BtW.....the cards Idea....fabulous! Dassi loved it and easy sheasy....your the bestest....would never have thought to print out sayings before hand and have them pick and choose and just tape!!! The stamps....nice. Thanks again!!

Hi.... Guess what??? We will be coming to Palm Desert for winter vacation in two weeks. January 20th- January 28th..or 29th. My dad decided to have us come out because he is not coming to Dassi bat mitzah. So...we are going!!! Janet???? Hopefully we can get together at some point or anyone else in the near vicinity! Cant wait! This weekend was so busy.....that cant even talk about it. The dates were okay.....nothing great! Alot of family drama....about bat mitzvah and why my dad isnt coming in for it and so on .....just cant even begin to rehash it all except...to say sometimes I wish a new family would be nice..... Tex....way to go....on the volenterring and weight loss...its great!!! Linda.....you are really being a tropper here. Kudos to you. Jules...you just keep on doing what your doing!! costco........hah wont even go near that place during lunch on a weekend....youd never get past those tasters area. Trader Joes.....speaking of which...we will be frequenting in Palm Desert lol so....thanks for the heads up Janet. Arlene....hope your mom does better in the rehab. Glad she had an option. Its good to know that she will be taken care of a while longer and not go home alone. Welll not feeling 100 percent....a little dizzy, tired and nauseas.....slightely. I dont know just out of sorts...going to sleep. Have a good night all... Jodi

[Okay....another day no work due to SNOW A COMMING.....has started. So,,,have some time to post so going to junk up the thread....lol So. date was okay. Just okay. He was nice....but he was a little nerdy? Which might not be bad...he was a normal guy...but perhaps he was nurvous..and seemed a little nerdy but....not sure....he didnt swoop me....but that also might not be a bad thing. lol.....we shall see.....He actually lives across the street and down the block....lol cutting across the park....five minutes. lol. Funny never saw him before. welll....have two dated on Sunday....one afternoon and one Evening...lol two different guys! loll. Tomorrow night going to Single parents get together...with a friend. Dassi will be going out for the shabbat and she will be staying till Sunday morning...and then come home shower and dress for bat mitzvah....for the afternoon. SO...pretty much free this weekend....thats a new thing lol. So..figure might as well....use it....or loose it! Today.....just hanging at home...need to recoup for weekend and week to come up.....have a holiday party on Wednesday..and Thursday support group. It will be a busy week. Monday late afternoon meeting so be home later....and karate for Dassi Monday and Tuesday.....good lord. hmmm Exersize....planned for mornings this week....and thats that....no excuse this week back on plan!!! Started this past week went twice. slow start but back to something!!!! Next week 4x goal. quote name=Apples2' timestamp='1294345274' post='1555874] Jodi...just relax and have fun on your date...unless he's a freak and then excuse yourself to go to the restroom to figure out an escape plan. LOL You know, you just do what you think is right for you and Dassi when it comes to giving gifts at the party. Sometimes ppl get just ridiculous when it comes to things like this. You are a single mom and working hard to pull off a very nice party for Dassi. Go online and type in "Kate Aspen" . I was helping with an event about six months ago that I needed to get some thank you gifts. I found some really nice quality things on their clearance that were just put with each place setting. And, got them each for $2.99. To answer your question. We are heading out in the morning to drive to Tucson. Will be back around March 5-6. Ready to blow this pop stand! I will be able to be online some during the trip (will have to wrestle DH for the laptop to get him away from being glued to his "Ag Talk" site). AHH....okay then...didnt get that post...you did say you were going somewheres but didnt catch where!! Now ive got a visual....have fun, safe driving....and enjoy!!!! Keep us posted and up to date...we shall miss your daily posts, support and encouragement in your funny sensitive words and manner!!! Send some occasionallly try not to be a stranger! Yes, they are very simular to the "quincineros" Our community has a large Mexican population so we have seen some beutiful ones here....the best is watching all the family and friends who come all together and take pictures in the park gazebo across the street. The dresses and tuxes that all are wearing and matching for everyone is just gorgeous! Yes....they spend alot of money for those events...just as much as weddings. Bat Mitzvahs are the same....there are parties that people throw that are just like weddings some more then others! $50,000- 75.000. Ridiculous but.....true. My wedding was about 50,000 to 75,000 and we had about 300 people...that was soup to nuts lol. That was the middle or the road. Nothing extravagent or out the ordinary. Apples......im going to check out that "Kate Aspen" site...just as I get off this thread....Thank you so much any other ideas appreciated...no matter how crazy you might think!!! Again....the theme is "masquerade" as it is purim time....the theme is reveling oneself....as is in the story of Queen Esther in the purm story...there was alot of revealing needed to go on there.....down to her true identidy and then the plan to save the jews...so one reason for wearing masks is to remind of us this concept of the hiding and reveailing in the end....so hence the "masquerade" idea..... so....any ideas for centerpieces???? Gifts?? where I can get masks...to give out at the door?? So far I have Oriental trading that has a set of rfeathered Mard Gras masks per dozen. They also had these mardi gras centerpieces...that might work and somehow put a mask around each.....Dassi wants a special mask to wear that I saw online...one that was about $15 dollars....but Im not buying 55 of these for each girl...if they were $5 a piece then that might be nice. lol..less would be even better! We will be packing goody bags to give out...so need bags and goody foods...probably from Costco. bulk...givng these out on Purim to the rusian students at Brooklyn col that do not know what purm is...so thats one project that she is doing....in the invitation we have put a card that we are colliecting costumes for an organization that will give them to chilldren to wear on Purim who cant afford to buy them....the are also putting an add in the paper for people in the community to come and bring their costumes to the place we are having party to add. She also would like a table to add to where everyone can make cards for children in the hospital ...to put on their beds and are giving them to her pediatrician to deliver to all the kids on the peds floor. Wew...thats plenty to do and Plenty to buy for!!! hmmm......Eva...you make your own cards.....perhaps you can give me some suggestions as to what I can get to put out on table to have the girls make these cards....simplem easy, fairly doesnt take long and not to expensive to buy for 55 girls. btw backeberrys has a lot of fiber!!! Im watching the Today show.....and they are having a whole day of fitness and nutrition and its really very interesting and educational!!! We should all be watching this one....very practical and sooo many great ideas...for exercize, foods and nutrition.....each segment a different idea....so one is showing you a three different foods....and asking which foods do you think has more calories, or Fiber or Protein??? like....I never knew that my 16 oz latte has just as much protein as two eggs!!!??? Was just counting grms for the milk. hmmm feel better now...and tht wasnt decaf ....But it was all about ideas and demonstrating each one!!! I love it...check it out on Utube if you can. okay...fashion.....always have your bra fitted and cup up!! Wear a dress....Always wear a shaper......from under bra to to thighs....and Spanx tights always.....they make your legs look longer and thinner and high healed shoes....waalah instant thinnner look for tonight!! lol. Love that!! I never wore dresses but last week I went and bought two sweater dresses with belts.....firsts!!! Wow. of course havent worn them yet. Oh wait heres a new one maybe....for me for sure!! Protein shakes......add cinamin?? Interesting never would have thought that....add strawberries, blueberries and blackberries and banana...with your scoop of protein,...millk or almond., soy, rice what ever you use and blend it all with some cinnamon.....Ive tried all the above without cinamon,,,know im spelling wrong...now...cant see straight with this font...This show is for us gals.......band friendly plans for all of us!!!! cottage cheese and granola bar....toasted miuffin with Peanut Butter and bananna I dont eat wheat but for those who do.... a ninety ten food stratergy....a 150 cal a day treat....for a sweet treat work this in your plan if you need too!!! They call it the 90/10 lol. like that.....and the 150 cal could be healthy friuts or...um something like chocolate....dark.....or two little snickers....hmmm?? no not that for me but chocolate yes thats me!!! NO GYM REQUIRED.. a book by Someone "Cohen" for great ideas for workouts at home!!! WOW...creative ideas.....using dishtowels, towels, jumping over obstacles and then a workout with just your body. I take a class at the gym like that......nothing else but body.....cool....think I will check out that book... what great a great show today....hmmm should snow some more often!!! Id get thinner if i didnt go to work at all...but then just watching doesnt really do it does it? lol.

Good Afternoon.... Laura....Breakfast??? Breakfast??? That sounds like it was a great NYE!! Yea you!!! Sending you good juju so there will lots more breakfasts!!!! So happy for you and he cooks what you can eat....as he listened....you so deserve someone like that!!! Thanks for the update! Jessica....Congratulations on the Scholorship! Im sure that takes a load off.....and makes life stressers a little lighter now!!! You so worked hard to get this!!! Good going!! Chicago??? Sounds good but not sure if the timing will work out for me this year...but this is what I have available... End of January....January 19th to January 31st. Winter vacation....so far have not made any plans for any vacation....and not planning to....I think that with Dassis Bat Mitzvah coming....I need to put aside every penny...and the only vacation would be a driving one to a place that is free....so staying home...and having a staycation.....lol. It will be okay....Dassi bummed about it but its not in the budget..the bat mitzvah will cost about $5,000. As of now I have $3,500. That pays for the restuarant only. Nothing else...and if we have more then 80 people then Ill need at least 4,000. Crazy Crazy Crazy!! This is what is considered a no frills party. Hahha could have fooled me. Hey....the dress is gorgeous and the invitations are as well....the food will be great and if we have nothing else....then thats what will be. Of course I know Dassi wants to have a photo booth and something to give away to each girl. A custom made mask of some sort....or gift...I hate that idea what a waste of money....but.....If I told you all the gifts she comes home with from each party...youd all think these people are insane...which of course they are out of their minds so have to keep everything in perspective for us but it aint easy as.....its hard not to keep up with the Joneses next door!! But heck sure going to try not to!! Lori....enjoy the trip..and Karen.....you too....didnt catch where you are going to but where ever it is.....you both should have a wonderful trip...my suggestion...forget the 10-12 pairs of shoes and just buy as you go along !!! lol oh....so here are the dates...available lol....hmm add?? Forget February and March.....Bat Mitzvah March 13th. April for Passover vacation is......April 21st-27th is possible Memorial weekend might be good June 7th- 12 week is great actually!! June-20th-24th is perfect actually or the June 27th to 30th will work just as well!! So I would say.... June 6th week and June 20th weeks are the best......June 6th without Dassi and June 20th maybe she would come hmm....not sure about that,. lol other then that its all up in the air!! so....you guys choose....I choose June 7th.....lol other then that June 20th with kids. Okay then... must be running.... Have a date tonight....yes, blind date....lives in the neighborhood.....sounds nice but....we shall see. We are going for dinner....got a babysitter for this as Mom was busy so hope it will be worth it (please god, must add a prayer there) lol have a great night all~!!!! Jodi

Hi all ....do I detect old format style?? Not sure but think so.... HAPPY NEW YEARS EVERYONE!! Sorry ive been gone.....but its been a heck of a week getting back to the normal routine! I always have such a hard time getting back into things after a vacation...,,even when its not a vacation but forced vacation of sorts..........didnt go back to work till Monday....I could not drive to Brooklyn from LI....apparently the neighborhood I work in was never plowed at all.....and I still had a hard time with finding a spot today!!! So far this week has been a dousy.....and trying to focus and attend to all the things that didnt get done last week...including paperwork, shopping and basic stuff....library, gym etc.....it really has knocked me out....not to mention the darn cleaning girl cancelled today after not being able to come last week....so the place is really a mess! I tried to clean somewhat last Friday but heck who am I kidding??? I cant clean anymore....dont even know where to start...I could wipe the counters, sweep the floors and put to order everyday the apartment...and throw out garbage and clean the bathroom bath and shower........and wash the dishes.....but real cleanning???? Those days....no can do anymore....I guess once you had someone three times a week cleaning.,.....going to once a week was hard but....I learned what I needed to do in between to keep place clean but....this??? Two weeks without a good clean??? OMG....freaking out!! Had to get someone else to come tomorrow.....if I had to wait one more day id have to move to my mother for the weekend for sure! WOW....that makes me look so...um spoiled.....but this is my one luxery....I work two jobs and am a single parent...I dont have time to clean as well and I deserve it to boot. Much prefer to spend time at the gym then cleaning....as that is the only option of use of free time! So....spoiled then I must be? Sobeit....lol Tonight went to pick out and order Dassis Bat Mitzvah dress....Its gorgeous...She is having formal wear.... (to a restaurant, lol) thats what she wants..so thats what its going to be. We found someone in the neighborhood who makes custom dresses for 150-200 dollars total.....She is getting a copy of some designor something....Princess gown. yes, she will look gorgeous....I went to look at dresses for me at the GMACH for gowns. They had gorgeous gowns...of so many styles and colors..........Im sure ill find something there so wont have to pay anything for mine. Pays to volenteer so they know me and are putting aside anything that they think I might like. The invitations are ordered..... Now Centerpieces....that is the order for the next few weeks. She is having a masquerade ball.....so any ideas about what the center pieces on ten tables could be??? In fact anyone who wants to have that project....would be happy to pay...lol. Going to end up paying a fortune anyways for this shin dig....might as well be something amazing. lol Have not had time to read all posts.....but.... wanted to see how Loris daughter was doing and if she is now on Bed Rest. I hope and pray she is doing okay and continues to do so..... I want to thank everyone for their lovely cards and holiday wishes and gifts..........So sweet and so...nice to have them up on our mantel to look and and smile everytime I pass them by.....oh and if you all dont mind Id like to leave these up for at least another month....as they are the first holiday cards weve ever gotten and I dont want to put them away...each one is nicer then the other..... Okay....welll you can all imagine that I have not been to gym and eating hasnt been the greatest but getting back into gear and by next week better be back on track!!!! Or ill kick my butt....no need for Janet to do that for me....I think I have a support group meeting tomorrow night...but not sure.....have a date but will cancel if there is a meeting...need to go and get back the "head" the date can wait till Sunday. Oh wanted to hear how to NYE date went with Laura?? Was thinking about you that night and praying you were having a great night!!! Okay....well must go to sleep exhausted....have a good night all and will try to read posts tomorrow at work when and where its quiet!! Jodi

Hi.....hope all is well.... I wanted to wish everyone HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!! MAY ALL YOUR DREAMS FOR THIS YEAR COME TRUE!!! Enjoy all your celebrations! Jodi

Hi all.... well....its been a fun couple of days here in NYC. Blizzard!!! No school now going on day two...so hence no work now going on two days. Just about to go bonkers...running out of hot cocoa mix and no more milk and only little rice milk left. l.ol. Have plenty of everything else...so we will just have to suck it up and drink water! Actually might venture and walk to the grocery a little later but not looking forward! Have...now organized my closets, drawers, and bookshelves in my room...next project is my living room....thats going to take a while and as it looks there will be lots of time...as I dont know if tomorrow ill be able to get into Brooklyn at all. The major streets highways are good..but the side streets...they havent even ploughed yet. So..I might be home yet another day tomorrow and who knows...about Thursday. This isnt my idea of a great vacation but am getting alot of orgnization done! lol Not really good to be home near the kitchen all day...testing, testing, testing. Cant get to the gym so no ability to rationalize that one bite of something with the thought of working it off at the gym anytime today or tomorrow either! so...being real careful. Proteins, Proteins, and Veggies... okay.....Im hearing lots more stories filled with wonderful traditions that are making me smile and so happy....for everyone...what a special, special time. Thank you all so much..I am living vicarously through all of you at this time and again as ive said before...wow what wonderful feelings youve all conveyed. I just think that if I was celebrating Christmas I would have my decorations from the earliest possible to the latest possible moment ever! New Years...eve comes out on Friday night this year..which means...no partys here for us. Its shabbos so we wont even get to see the ball bounce on TV as we dont watch TV on shabbos at all....or listen to radio. It will be like any other day,. boo hoo. Even though its not a jewish holiday its...American...so we do Celebrate..except when it falls on Friday night so kind of depressing however..I trust you will all post about your celebrations and what nots.....so I can at least hear all your experiences!!! Im bored. lol, must get out..cabin fever setting in!!! Tina.... Im so sorry about your situation....but it seems from what you are posting that this relationship hasnt really been healthy for a long time and you know this. You are both what psychologists call "co-dependants". You have both set up the perimeters of your relatiosnhip a certain way...that is not healthy for you or for your partner youve said this as much......and you are feeling it as well..as you have stated. Behavior patterns are hard to break especially when there is no one objective like a therapist to help you do this...I agree that in order to begin the process you must first look into yourself and the underlying reason for your behavoirs in order to then change the pattern of behaviors allready set in place. You are both now fullfilling the needs of each other but they might not be being done in the healthiest manner. You will not be able to change your partner..but you can change yourself..and hence will inadvertently change her behaviors however...if she does not get healthy mentally on her own to do the same...she will continue to seek out behavoirs that will enable her to fulfil her needs from someone who is willing to comply. This is called...behavior modification in its simplest form...we are made of "behaviors" when we stop behaving we are dead. Our behavoirs stem from past experiences that effect and shape us and our own future experiences. We have learned that when something happens and experience occurs....an antecedent behavior...determines our own behavoir and our response....then there is a consequence of that behavoir or response. These determine how we will behave, and respond to experiences....the thing is...this could be for pleasant or unpleasant, healthy or unhealthy depending on our state of mind at the time. So...I hope that Im not lecturing here...but just giving some insight as to what needs to occur to help each other reach mutual goals and aspirations for oneselves and together in a relationship. You have taken a major step to changing past experiences...and your behavior so..that is a major feat...you should be proud and hold that close to you!! What ever comes of this can only be positve as it a positive healthy change that you are seeking!! Good luck..and we are here to give support and encouragment what ever decisions you make! Well...must be going to kids are coming back from outside and it will be fun...more Hot Chocolate!! Have a great day all.,...

oh...and Lori, Soo soo very happy that your daughter was doing better and the medication has worked to stop contractions and she was home for Christmas. I hope you all had a peaceful enjoyable weekend. Prayers are with you for throughout the season and she should carry until what we say....."a good time". Well....just wanted to say....Merry Christmas was so glad you posted... I will keep her in our prayers. Jodi

HI all...wow...I have been enjoying reading all your wonderful amazing christmas stories...of being with family and friends and celebrations from the preperations and shopping to the cooking and the days goings on from the start to the finish...and I feel like ive been with all of you in each of your homes..and am so thankful that you have all shared your personal experiences with me and everyone else.....I truly for the first time have expererienced Christmas!!! What a wonderful holiday!!! Hope your New Years is just as well....and youl keep those experiences coming because it sure is boring here in the five towns of Nasau County!!! No Christmas or New Years celebrations and you all have got me in the um Christmas mood!! lol. So...wishing you all a wonderful weeks Christmas and may all your dreams come true. I wont bore you with my num drum life...its been the usual, stresful unpredicatble and so very boring compared!! So keep the stories coming!!! Tina....my experiences demonstrate that we need to make our own good time. I feel your pain...weve all been lonely at times...but its when this loneliness infringess on our daily functioning we need to worry and get help. Youve gotten yourself this help and started the process of healing yourself so that you can begin to function in your daily routines....and the process keeps going until we dont feel lonely anymore and feel comfortable enough to spend time with yourself and be able to spend time with yourself and be happy enough to enjoy spending time with yourself even on holidays even though your mom isnt around anymore to be with you...you will begin to develop new experiences and create new memories. Wishing all the above for you this year. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. May all your dreams come true. Cherri..I am hearing the anxiety in your voice as well....and you have been through so much emotional stress these past few months that its no wonder you feeling slightely blue....taking everyones problems and emotions on to your shoulders. Im so sorry about those beutiful children that lives have been cut down short but you have to keep it together for yourself and your familiy! May god bless you for all the wonderful things you do for so many children and families. Chin up. We love you and all that you do....it will get better and if you need some medication then get it...nothing to be ashamed at at all!!! Happy Festivities all....thank you for all the lovely Holiday cards and good wishes!! Jodi

xc Hi all., I want to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas!!!! Thank you everyone for all your beutiful cards and wishes!!! Dassi has appropriated all the cards as she has never seen such beutiful cards in our house before....hmm. So she is admiring all of them and has promptly put them on top of her card collection!! Thank you.... Um....I really would like to have gotten cards out to all of you..however....I would not be a very good person if I lied and said I will....because I wont....Im not good about sending anything out at all....not bday cards, not wedding cards, not anything....if I cant hand it to you....its really not happening....so I will have to see each and every one of yous....to give you your own personal card at that time!!! And that is a promise. I wish everyone a wonderful weekend...with family and friends. You should gather together and thank god...for being together and able to spend such a wonderful time together....for those who cant be with loved ones at this time....make sure you call and say...I love you and how much they mean to you. Enjoy all the festivities and dont eat so much junk!!! NO FRUIT CAKE! Ive been extremely busy working on some new programs for several new children for our ABA program. Since the workshp have been bombarded with teachers calling all day with questions regarding the program as well...so not a moment to spare. So sorry.... went to surgeon today and.....I was suprised that I am 145 and did not gain weight over the last two weeks....since beng sick and no gym last week and not eating great...and getting stuck....thought for sure id gained some pounds...but nope didnt. Yea. I guess even though i wasnt great....I really wasnt all that bad as I thought...I was watching though sooo I guess that helped. Well....I must go to sleep. Wanted to get that Christmas Wish out to everyone before people departed on to their destinations! Again.....MERRY CHRISMAS TO ALL OF YOU WONDEFUL AMAZING FRIENDS, MAY ALL YOUR DREAMS AND WISHES COME TRUE!!! Jodi

Hi..come into the "Im here to help" thread...there will be plenty who will give plenty of great support and whom will listen to all your fears, issues and goals...promise!!

go with the 12! With the family growing there will be surely one or two that end up breaking!!

Thats so cool! Wow>...THATS amazing....must have been a great feeling. Hold that with you always!! Youve worked so hard you deserve it!! Apples....20 inches?? I hope you are toasty warm and stay inside!! And I complain about NY! Shame on me! Julie....wish there was some magic pill but there is none...that I can offer.....meditation?? Not magic but..hypnotising? Hugs and kisses.....to you! well...had a girls weekend out. Dassi had a fabulous time at the grandparents and.. I had a great weekend in the city with my friend Renee.....Friday we went to dinner in China Town...and Sat......we went for Breakfast, then we went shopping to this great coat and dress warehouse...as it was def. time to get a new coat for winter....it wasnt getting any warmer out and i still hadnt gotten a new colat for my new size!! Dont know what I was waiting for but....was holding off till....I guess the right time. In any case.....just the right time to as....it just so happens that as we got there they got a new shipment in of Dana Buchman coats and bombers....the ones shown on the runway for winter!!! OMG....they were fabulous. Fur lined....and down filled...for about 80-150 bucks each!!! Now the story goes with this place....which is totally off the beaten path...you need a car and guts to park anywhere on the streets....and the coats and shoes....kind of just maybe fell off the truck somehow....is what people figure...cause there aint no way these 800-1000 dolllar coats are being sold for 100 a piece or so.....just like that when they are in the dept stores for the later prices. So....I snagged two...one casual and the one with fur lined the whole way through with the collar and cuffs as well.....and a down parker..thigh lenght so I can wear with skirts or pants.....got home checked them out online and woo hoo.....1200 bucks for the ur lined....6oo something for the other.... IM LIKE WHAT????? Found out about this place from my friends friends friends friends...etc etc.....but it was always hit or miss....found some nine west boots there once...but nothing major but this week....pay dirt for us....the woman behind the counter....was like...if you like it take it cause tomorrow theyd be gone, gone, gone. Wasnt thinking tiwice....so im a happy camper. Love my new shabbos coat that I bought um on um well....anyways.....ill probably burn in hell for that....but not thinking about the guilt now....now im happy tomorrow ill feel all guilty. Last night...we went to this Birthday Bash...of a friend of mine that I met last year. She is also a single parent in my neighborhood..wasnt thinking of going but figured if Dassi isnt around and im hanging anyway in the city...why not? SO, Renee and I went to this party...it was okay but, we didnt stay long...it was the same ole same ole...people that we both new from like 20 yrs ago who either are now divorced......or never married..and the woman were just so....Jappy and well...not so nice so we left early and went to eat again in the east villiiage....that was fun! Thai food..where of course I got stuck after two bites and that was the end of that meal. .lol This morning went to work as I didnt go for two days last week....and well...needed to make some money up from the after work kids..that are contracted....so saw two kids and now only need to make up two sessions back this week somtime....not sure if that will happen but better then no sessions....for a week thats alot of extra money that isnt really extra. This afternoon.....was amazing...Dassi had her first karate tournament and came first place in kattas and second place in sparring.. We were all so proud of her!! My parents came and two friends of hers came to watch and as it turned out my brother, sister in law and niece and nephew came to watch their friends kids not knowing that Dassi was going to be in the tournament as well so they told her they heard that she was going to be in it and decided to suprised her with coming.....that was nice of them....wonder though if they would have come had their friends kids werent there.....would they have come to see her if id have invited them??? hmmm. Highely dought that but...hey one can always be suprised I suppose!!! But who cares....she felt very happy that everyone came to support her and so....im very happy for her as well.....went all out to eat afterwards....no problems with this side of family they all eat kosher!! lol So....im sure you are all wondering about whats going on with Jeff....and LV...well, in the romance dept. that is never ever going to happen decided after a month of ridiculous....same ole same ole really same crap that nothing had changed whatsoever....LV was a honeymoon....as I suspected and that week was great but...nothing great since then once again except empty promises and listening all about "Jeff" to the point that when I was sick this week....he didnt even once ask how I was.....feeling....even after tellling him numerous of times...that I didnt go to work....went to doctors....felt sick, came home from work....but.....he wasnt listening to me...just wanted to tell me about whats with him and the projects hes working on and on and on and tooting his horn about all the wonderful things hes doing for all the autistic children in the world just by being him,....am I being a little much??? noooo, not really. not exagerating.....at all. So...its been about hmmm a month allready where I decided nope....this is not going to happen again...and kind of turned off and began to tune out....and this past week....clincher....and so....just had it out with him and told him...this isnt going to happen...but if you want me to work with you on several projects and hire me, send me a contract and il be glad to work with you as you have requested. If not interested then thats fine.....good luck and dont contact me again. Not interested in a personal relationship.....self ritous pompous @$$. no need to go further but...wasnt even aware that I was even a bit pertubed at the conversations we had or hadnt been having over the last two months since LV. I told you all...wasnt going to let myself get taken in again.....but did.....and now getting myself the heck out but quick! Not even want to work with him....but it could be really good for me financially and a great experience for both myself and Dassi if this thing does come to fruition. If it does it will be on my terms and only then....but if it doesnt....se la vi......no harm done. Okay....must run downstairs...as if you recall the reason for going away this weeked was because they were doing my bathroom over....and so they did...but um the new toilet and handles in the shower not yet!!! Must use an empty apt bath and shower till tomorrow night...I hope afterwhich ill be able to clean up this dusty place and use my own toilet!!! (not happy) but, at least there is an empty apt to use for now! Have a great week all....enjpy all the starting of Christmas celebrations and cooking,shoppings and goings on...so loving hearing about all of the goings on .....keep them coming they are so wonderful...with good and happy spirits!!! Jodi

[/size][size= okay still have not figured this font/color/size but whatever..... Hi everyyone... Janet glad you are back safe and sound..... Cherri....I just want to give you hugs and kisses...please take care of yourself through all this and perhaps you should make sure that you also take care of your mental health and see that you recieve some emotional support at this time....you cannot be the only one to do this for so many little ones. Hugs and Kisses Joyce,...Happy Chanucka to you and your husband as well.....thanks. I hear KC has some interesting celebrations going on! Great....glad to hear your day with DD went well and you enjoyed special time! Apples.....perhaps the reason why so many people retire to warmer weather places is because as we get older the colder gets bolder! Jessica, So glad your doctor is going on the run with you.,..thats support Phyl...I love baileys...lol. Used to keep that and a bottle of Amaretto under my bed at colllege. Brings back good memoires....I like the sweet stuff....and creamy....could drink the whole bottle of either...in the old days! Tex,,,sorry about the shoulder and back...prayers to you for your dad. Glad your wifes finger is feeling better Dont know whom im missing...i know there was more to respond so sorry..... Well....another three days and Chanukah will be over. So far...Dassi got everything she wanted....and then some lol. what she wasnt expecting.....a new karate Ghee.....a private lesson that I told her was from her father whom I know would have wanted her to have that....so I said was really from him...she liked that. A camp reunion on Monday that consisted on Bowling, ice skating, dinner and concert with camp friends. That was expensive but well worth the days activtites..... I am under the weather....apparently touch of the flu perhaps....so peeved that the day I take off my soap operas.....cancelled for a state of the union....oy. well whatever....got the needed rest. Making cajun salmon tonight...Dassi actually has asked for it....so of course I am obliged!!! I seem to be getting stuck on everything these last week...no matter what I eat I get stuck.....im sure its because I am sick and maybe swollen. Im going to the surgeon on the 22nd if I still feel bad then im going to ask for an unfil...just havent felt right since last fill and its really touch and go....but this past week not so good.....and resorting to shakes and Protein Bars not so good...... welll no art at school today.....so need to cook dinner now and have ready by 5:30. This weekend need to get out of the apt....because they are redoing my bathroom!!! yea. so..Dassi is going to my parents and I am going to the city......for a girls weekend with Renne.....she lives...on the LES. so lots to do and see this time of the year. Hope ill be feeling better by then! okay have a good night all... Jodi

Melissa....Congratulations on the new addition to the family. Always nice to have newborns around...so cute and cuddly. sorry about the cold. Feel better soon. Thank you for the chanuka wishes...yes there are several different ways to spell this holiday..depending on how religous you are...pretty silly to me but seems to be something that hasnt changed over the years. No spelling I found is wrong so far so you are also correct!! lol. Yes, this is the holiday of keeping the jewish traditions alive...unlike during the haloucaust times where they wanted to kill all the jewish people here...the greeks wanted the jewish people to give up their practice and assimilate and they didnt so that is one reason we Celebrate the other is because when the greeks or romans came into the temple to destroy it there was only a bit of oil to light an menorah that stayed lit always and was never extinguished....so this little bit of oil that was left until they can make more lasted eight full days as apposed to only one day. This was the miracle of chanuka....so we celebrate twofold. As to where presents came from?? Its only an american tradition. We do because we dont want the children to feel bad about not getting presents at the same time each year when christmas falls out and everyone gets presents at that time...so the kids shouldnt feel bad or jealous this traditon started. Not a good precedent that was started lol. It used to be one present for all of chanuka ...now its one per day and then some....lol. You know how out of control the holiday season makes us all...but the real celebrations is families getting together and lighting the candles everynight together, singing and eating and partying....Shabbat Chanuka is especially celebratory so lots of stuff goes on in the community in each synaguage to celebrate. We are going to famiily dinner tonight and a big lunch tomorrow...where for both all the kids are invitied to bring games and stuff to play after dinner and lunch tomorrow. No cooking yea....so hence this posting. lol Sounds like a fun time with your friend....have fun and remember....watching a good tear jerker movie is fun to do as well...I have my friend Renee who sometimes we just go and find a hotel somewhere outside of NY just to get away from it all and wing it for the night or two....havent had one of these in about hmmm two years....since we went to Fire Island this summer. No extra cash for either of us and Dassi is pretty much home most shabboses any ways.... so sounds like you have a fun plan...enjoy!!!! What sort of baking do you do for christmas?? I know the nurses from St vincent and St. Lucia bring me every year a fruit cake that they make which apparently takes about a month two make...with liquor and such. cant wait to have a piece of....oh wait a minuet...hmmm. Ill have to think about this one real good. hmmm. okay then...perhaps ill just have one bite of a piece and give the rest to Dassi....oh you know that isnt happening....illl have to plan that days food and exercise real good. lol. Yes, thank you...you have reminded me...went to Trader Joes and forgot to buy my bag of cage free hard boiled eggs so needed to cook some up. Okay.....must run to light chanuka candles and shabbos candles and give out presents and then.....dressed for dinner! Have a great weekend all happy shopping!!! Jodi

Hi...again have no freaken idea....how to navigate this site....and no time to fiddle with it....so sorry everyone for the typical font and reply style. lol so unlike me which is the reason for the apology. Its been a week since posting and well.....it hasnt been a great week for food, exercize or Water....but am getting back on the saddle tomorrow AM....rather the seat of the cycle at the gym. Foods havent been horrid just eating Proteins and shakes and not enough vegetables and water.....Ive been so busy running around buying presents and supervising that I have no idea if im coming or going.....I thought this would be the easiest holiday to deal with but......I realize its so much easier to shop, cook and have off from work but nooooo going to work run around after looking for presents in a million different places and going to one party and celebration at this ones house or that ones...or dinners out etc has taken its toll and im just plain tired!!! Of course its a wonderful holiday...but all the running....and partying and its only just begun...eight more nights!! I am just thankful there is school all day otherwise...in addition to busy and tired Id be totally broke with a babyisitter in addtion to all the presents and goings on...lol This weekend we are going to our synaguage for chanuka dinner tomorow night....that should be fun and nice. Sat lunch is at another shul. That should be fun too....if course this means I wont have anything to eat good for me....but I have prepared one of Phyllis what I call famous BBQ chickens!! Thanks again..saving me. So at least I know ill go home and eat if there is nada...and I know what shabbos dinners are about soooo I know there wont be anything for me. Sat night im the car pool mom, my turn to drive to and from Bat Mitzvah about 45 min away....where I will be twiddling my thumbs wating around for three hours....probably go shopping for more presents at that time.... Sunday is our family chanuka party at my brothers house....I am hoping for some serious alcohol or other to help with the drama that im sure will happen at that party! Of course its all in the spirit of chanuka ....so im sucking it all up and running, running, running!!! I see everyone is getting ready for Christmas....and I love reading about all your plans....jealous of the great decorating and table settings and the gettings ready....cant wait to hear about all the fabulous christmas eve and morning stories with everyone and their families.... well... must run its late and exhausted.....welcome to the newbys....and have a great holiday...and remember WHEN YOU FAIL TO PLAN YOU PLAN TO FAIL (like me this week) Okay....have a great night...... Jodi

[/font Hi all....just checking in.....trying to navigate new site still but to no avail....why cant I find how to change font and color for always...so frustrating..will get it some time soon in the meantime will have to suck it up. [/size okay...then Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving and remembered to "Plan". Its been a lovely weekend...here. Today we went to see "Wintuk" Cirque de solei...it was nice. Dassi liked it. I prefer a real musical. But for the kids this was a nice change. Went to dinner afterwards without the familly...too much drama as usual. relligious practice....its that time of decision making.... Dassi decided recently she wants only to eat Kosher outside the house as well and tonight the familly who doesnt eat kosher at all decided...well they just didnt want to so....I said thats okay you all can go out together and Dassi and I will go out ourselves. Not even going to discuss the words I had with them all but no matter.....Dassi knows that I will support her regardless of whether I think she is right or wrong....im her mother and unless its dangerous..to herself or others then there is no reason to not support her beliefs and endeavors....in this case Im setting her up to learn not to eat out etc etc and so therefefore I must support her decisions and if anyone cares to differ or try to sway.,..hahh. Try me. Dassi us old enough to find out what will happen when she is not going to be supported by people that dont think the way she is or practices religion the way she has been taught and brought up with. I told her that the family at large would not support her decision and say..well thats nice but when your with us too bad youl do as we wish. Well she didnt want to take that ...so she stuck to her guns explained herself and said she didnt care to join them in that case any ways. lol. I agreed and rewarded her couragous standing up for what she felt was right...with her favorite restaurant, Cost 65 bucks but she deserved it. I let everyone know that as her mother I support her decision and although I may not myself keep kpsher out the house I respect her wishes and we would not be going out any longer in NY wherre there are plenty of kosher places to eat when eating out....suffice to say we wont be eating out to frequently any more. lol. Other then the above the weekend was farely nice...I started learning basics of "Zumba" at home from a DVD and that is this weeks project. Foods was good..exercise sucked....but this is a new week and a new goal to reach....three times at least cardio!!! This is my plan!!! Well.....I must get to slleep. wanted to catch up...quiet I see. Well have a great week..... Jodi

okay much to tired to play around with this new...site. I have just only begun to get used to old one boohoo. Maybe sometime soon will figure this one! Wanted to wish you all a happy Thanksgiving day! We are going to my sisters house where I will be looking to escape the cat allergies olmost as soon as we arrive. lol. Cant wait to experience some drama....but after this weeks drama at work......well I can handle my family I think. Am making "pumpkin soup" well....actually Dassi is making "Pumpkin Soup" I will be assisting. Have been extremely busy this week with um kind of everything that isnt what should have been busy with. lol I hope that scenario ends tonight. Tonight we helped with Thanksgiving dinner at an organization that Im involved with that hosts Thanksgiving dinner for several homeless shelters at the center that houses all the jewish student organizations that I was involved with when in college. I am an alumni so am invovled with several events that occur yearly. Thanksgiving dinner for the shelters is one of them. Dassi loves going and so....weve been going every year for the past three. She really outdid herself this year....she brought three friends of hers with...and the three of them really made the day...they worked so hard and were so pooped after they all fell asleep on the way home. It was good evening. I got to see some friends who havent seen in a year and it was enjoyable to do something good for others with Dassi together. This week...finially the scale started moving again...its been two months at 148 finaiily down to 144 this past week. Ive been really trying and being tight....well that helped im sure as well because im just not eating alot and im not hungry. Im not as tight as I was two weeks ago when I thought about an unfil....I guess those four pounds made that difference jsut like you all said it was....perhaps this is what restriction really feels like?! As long as im not getting stuck all the time and no Pbing, sliming or thank god or anything like throwing up after that one time that second day after fill...I guess its all good. If I feel stuck at all this week however...next week I go to Surgeon and will think about a slight unfill. Well...it is way late so best be getting to sleep. Will be meeting with a party planner for ideas for Dassi Bat mitzvah....which she has allready planned out...so better get moving before she spends all the money herself on it by herself. lol. Shes allready got the budget down....hmm. Her head counselor at camp is the party planner....she has refused to take any money from me...so ill have to figure out how to pay her.....even if she just helps with ideas and such I need to do something for her....I hate it when everyone wants to do for us because of "our" situation. I understand this is their chessed....charity project....but im used to be the one to do the chessed projects for others...I hate being a chessed project myself. It reminds me that yes....I am also a widow, divorcee etc Yes Dassi is a fatherless but um i hate being reminded of that...and would love to be able to say oh no I can well afford to pay you....and so thats that...but its not as if I have that luxery to say that...and even not needing a party planner she has insisted on offering her services....so why should I deny Dassi something that perhaps she can think of that I cant...as I aint no party planner!! lol. and I really dont know anything about this party type of the neighborhood we are living in now....just because im too proud! She deserves to have a great party and if I can do that using a planner that will allow me to get ideas that will not only inspire but will save me money in the end....Ill take it and find a way to pay her...if not with money with something else!! Doing this in the AM then off to my sister in the PM. Long day!! So must go to sleep. Have a good one all.....and remember "WHEN YOU FAIL TO PLAN YOU PLAN TO FAIL" Gobble, Gobble

It is sad...but just remember that famous saying and keep saying it.... "I am not responsible for other peoples actions". Okay....after saying this....my mother just phoned and she is five minuets away!! Darn! need to get dressed. Now I need to say the above again. lol Have a great trip.....Enjoy!!! Win big!!! or at least win! Okay must get dressed..mom on her way to nurse me..... not good she isnt feeling well......who needs that ? lol Love her but.... see above!! Have a good day all Jodi

Good Evening all.. Hope all is well.....Well..Dassi is feeling better thank you god. I am feeling so far fine..although mom not too well today.....hmm. She was with us all weekend. Not sure if thats a coincidence or it means a virus has struck! Hopefully it will have passed with me. Went to my Tuesday weight class this afternoon. It was a good class. I like that class...its not arobic but....strength ?and resistance building using weights etc etc. tomorrow morning im going to try boot camp instead of spin to see which class is better for me on Wed. I think on Fridays ill do cycling. Sunday morning step it up and yoga....so that will be one weights, two cardio, no three cardio and one weights. I guess I should do another weight class....or something for strength building....maybe on Thursdays I should do my own weight training..much like thr trainer did...independently and on Mondays....I need to do cardio as well but....I cant seem to get it together after the weekend to get to the gym in the AM...or PM for that matter. This is my plan for the week.....and next week and so on and so....lol This is the year for getting that program in place.....last year was about loosing the weight...this year about maintenance and exercise.....im so damn tired I cant think straight! Nothing new on the contracts...wont be till after new years ill bet. Dassi got called for an audition for end of June. A remake of the Oscar Mayer Wiener commercial. Well...I tried to explain to her what an icon of a jingle that orriginal was.....she just wasnt impressed. Kids. I just think it will be funny.....her doing a bologna commercial.....glad she wont have to eat anything....as she wont do the commercial cause that aint Kosher she said. so true.... Hi ho...you must either be going to school for teaching or health care something! TB.....we have to get a check every year at our physical. My primary only has one vial a year delivered and thats for my anual physical....always need that test with a 48 hr..return. Hate it. lol. Good Luck. NO...I didnt hear about any pill for anti nauseau....I should deff get some just in case. Do I need a script? What is the name of it? I will call primary tomorrow. Should have in house for sure. Thanks for that. you see. Best to be safe...you were right to go to Dr. and now you can start again....and get back right on track!! Remember everyone reacts differently and you know now what you need to do when you dont feel quite right. We have to treat our bands with respect so to say.....lol. Hope you are feeling better!!! Oh I love coldwater creek. I can see you in all those great clothes...apples. Perfect for you.. Have you never seen any of there clothes? I was so addicted to every outfit that they have....I used to spend hours circleing outfits and the jewlery etc to match with the shoes and bags and belts...and saving up my pennies buy from the catalogs....now they have two stores close by but guess what??? I dont buy anything anymore because Im too darn busy to look at a catalog when it comes! lol. Besides the fact that have not bought anything new...really for the last 5 years...except from the thrifts lol. Hope you had fun!!! you are braver then me...girl. I dont know if I would have gone through with that after realizing that they made me miserable for naught. With me you get one chance....if you screw it up you are history. Oh no....no no. You are too good. Id have really let them all have it. well....I do that often actually. I guess its a NYker thing to do. But....its over and like you said.....you will not go back to him again,...pompous ass that he was. You are always doing for everyone Apples....always flying up and taking care of things...when you moved I remember you saying this was going to be the hardest part of the move..... not being able to take care of GM. as you were...but you are entitled to live your life and not have to take care of the nitty gritty any longer....its someone elses turn and your turn to just come and enjoy those visits when you do visit without having to take care of errands etc etc. Human behavior is so predictable sometimes.....you knew they were going to expect you to still take on the same role that you always did...esp during the holidays.....you shook things up by moving....maybe they knew that you wouldnt spend the holidays with them anyways...because you never do so they thought why ask?? Thats lame but I know.....I dont ask my brother anymore to come for Friday night dinners or holidays because when I did ask it was always no thanks ....we are going to Lisas parents, friends, somewhere else....after a while....I just never ask....last year....my sister asked if I had asked him to come and I was like um um no. meantime.,..turns out they didnt go but because I didnt invite them they werent going to invite themselves. hmm That showed me.....I felt bad...so we all kind o f fall into these behaviors and cant change the pattern....they are doing the same. im sorry that you are having such a hard time with them!! You deserve better. Well...must go to sleep. Have a great night all. Jodi