NYSparklegirl

oh. Laura..Hope all goes well with your mom. and you are such a good daughter to help out when needed....even when you havent even rested from your trip! Julie....you sit and say thank you when you are complimented lol Yes you do deserve the credit and you dont even know it!!! But we are here to tell you different!!! You are fabulous and amazing...and 300 people is an insane amount of people no matter how little you say you are doing...we know you by now....you are doing way too much!!! Enjoy, Enjoy!! sorry junked up the thread. again.....

Hi guys.... Frizzy hair???? ha....the worst is here. Curly and frizzy. In humid NY weather???? Must use something good. Ive tried everything and since I blow dry and straighten with iron after...I need something to control that frizz or no matter how much I straighten I frizz the second I get out of doors. I use..."OSIS + Magic" (Anti frizz gloss serum) by Schwarzkopf I use a pea size and it lasts till the next wash. I used to straighten with the brazilian straightening..then didnt need a thing...but cannot stand the smell of that stuff and since needing to leave the stuff in hair for three days before washing out....I couldnt stand it...had to take it out in a two days...it was fine after but the thought of doing that again....uh no thanks...ill stick to iron and antil frizz. lol Camping and me??? well, wasnt aware that there was going to be no bathrooms or water. lol Kind of was just like sure...camping sounds like fun. Suppose ill have to make an apt for mani/pedi on Monday morning...chiropractor and massage therapist as well come to think of it. lol no..I dont have any camping equipment. I figured we would just stop at Wallmart on the way up there and pick up what we need?? I have a flashlight. A three man tent...other then that um not too much. Will borrow a blow up mattress and an ice chest or two. This is going to be real fun...uch um. Ill probably be going to visit my two friends...one in a bungallow colony and one who has a house ten min away. Thanks for the calculations regarding waters....I figured...someone would help figure that one out!! lol Thanks for the suggestions....baby wipes?? what a great idea. Ill take more if anyone has any....and since some of you are avid campers...bring it on....as you see...this city girl....has no clue what shes got herself into!!! Judy fortunately my parents didnt believe in bringing up japs sadly. lol Monday night weddings...yes they are on Mondays and Wednesdays because its auspicious to have a wedding on the same day as you read the torah during the week. Also...the real reason is its cheaper as well. Its seems however the more religious the more chances it would be that irs during the week. A real pain for some people....but the nice thing is it never is black tie...so you can dress more casual then on a weekend wedding. Israeli dancing?? yes, Hava Nagila is a song that you would dance to Israeli style however, the danciong that is done at religious weddings is called simcha dancing really. Simcha meaning a celebration. The music and dancing is a mix of modern dance and israeli dance with some alot of line dancing as well. "Hava Nagila" (spelled correctly, yes) song is an old song from our grandparents decade and we young ones (young hah) wouldnt be caught dead dancing to that song, its also notorious for non religious affairs to have that song and dance as the first "jewish dance" and then switch to reg american dancing as it is the one song that jews are familiar with regardless of their practice, or where they are from. Sorry....though....Im sure that the Israelis were not laughing when you taught you that song and dance...but it is a traditional one that we all know...and occassionally will have to dance to..unwillingly. lol It was a very nice wedding..the kids who got married..and I call them kids as they are respectfully 20 and 21. lol They are children of friends that Ive had from our bungallow colony....the "kids" grew up together in the colony from the time they were about 5. They recently met about an year ago at a party apparently in the city and decided to go out and that was that....How funny is that?? The parents are friends...and have been for years but stopped going to the colony when the kids got older. All the families....that went together for so many years kept up the friendships and got together during the year for parties and such....the kids...are all getting married now and there are lots of weddings to attend.....but this wedding was special as it was two kids from the colony itself getting married and they werent going out when they were growing up together....not at all. The story..goes when they were about 11 or 12....the boy apparently made a comment about girls and how stupid and not strong they are....and the girl....she said Ill show you and she popped him in the face. these are the two that are got married today.....Funny how things turn out...and no one would have ever thought it! So...It was a bungallow wedding so to say....the whole gang was there....and it was alot of fun. It was like being back there and having a party on a sat night...at the casino. All the children were there as well...but they were hardly recognizable as they are now adults pretty much. Dassi would have loved to have come as she was the baby of the crowd...along with the married kids sister who she was best friends with and is her age. There was three tables of bungallow people...and only six other tables...it wasnt a big wedding but it was beutiful. The dancing was great.... Funny though how the same songs and music were played like at my wedding 13 yrs ago lol. Its not always like this and alot of young people have crazy hebrew music but this was music I was able to recongnize..lol and knew all the dances to. I miss these people...I have such great memories of the summers spent at this bungallow with these people....I actually heard some stories about Ron that I never knew about....with him and the guys....they seem to have missed him here at the wedding. I didnt think about that until then and realized that yes...he should have been here as well....oh well. I also..got great compliments! lol From some more then others...its interesting...and im wondering why....a few of the men were friendlier then I remembered. Now I wasnt really friendly with the men...but with the woman....the men werent there during the week and on weekends...the men came up so really didnt have much to do with them....Ron did as they socialized and when we divorced...those two years after....I tried to stay away from any other womans husband...as the bungallows were fairly close together and I shared a porch with another family..and always made it a point never to be alone with any of them at any point no matter what...not a good situation to have anyone even think anything....after all I was the divorced one...the only one...so I needed to be careful these were my friends...and i wanted to keep them. I say all this because three of the men....tonight they were...more then forward about the way they thought I was looking and they were just standing to close or sitting to close or talking to close...? Men who never really were of concern or payed much attention to me at all..and never approached me this way at the colony in all those years. It was just interesting....the way they were behaving..not to mention the few who were slightely tipsy and was just being to firiendly one who called me aside to tell me how fabulous I looked?? ....i was a little embarrassed. I was flattered but im sure his wife wouldnt have thought so!! It was all fun but was well to aware of the vibes and kept in check. Perhaps I am reading into things more...or maybe not. What im finding is that people in general are treating me different....I feel this way...perhaps its just my perception but I wonder how much is real or is my imagination. It was good it was a religous wedding and I was able to dance with the woman only and although it was seperate seating I made sure to sit in between two woman friends. lol. There were several friends also who wanted to set me up....grrrr. I love them but....grrr. lol well..I exercized for about an hour and a half. Burned lots of calories...and only ate some chicken and string beans. No shmorg board at all. Had red wine then thats all. Someone posted pics to facebook...perhaps you all can see them. Id post a few but not sure how to get them from the person who tagged me...and sent it to me. Well...must go to sleep. Am working 2-7 tomorrow as again..I am the all around person ....still no replacement nurse. Training at 11. Am sore from yesturday training!! Okay...junked up the thread now for sure!!! Have a good night all. Jodi I miss my friends. I miss playing mahjong everyday.....and I miss my bungallow...I loved my bungalow more then I did my apt still do!

hi all.....sitting here at work and thought id check in.... Today I am teacher, herapist, babysitter, nurse and mom. My boy is taking a nap so..just doing um nada and instead of eating...figured Id post! No body is around...Mom working in basement and Nurse is on vacation and no replacement can be found so outside of medication im it. lol. Nice job. Suppose I cant complain....there are days when I get peeved when therapists come and I dont get enough of my time in with him so today I get to do everyone elses job. Fun. Brought my clothes with me to change for the wedding..where I will be dancing away the pounds. Israeli dancing mostly so that counts as exercize...doesnt it Janet?? lol. I have one date set up for this week but actually am thinking about canceling it. This is a third date but I dont think its going be good idea..as im not really thrilled with him....so why bother going out with him and make him think that there will be something that isnt?? I dont want to lead anyone on. Going camping this weekend in Bethel NY. This is real camping! No bathrooms, showers, water no ovens....talking tent camping guys. Not sure im cut out for this but....my friend Renee wants to go..its this retro fest music thing..and there is a group of about 7 of us. I suppose I will be in charge of food and cooking so I will make sure everyone is going to eat healthy healthy!!! They are going.....to hate me!!! lol Haah Haah Biggest concern.... have to figure out how many gallons of water do I need to bring???? Okay for all you mathematicians...acountants or financia wizzes.... Ill have to bring jugs of water just for me....and hide them!! so if I need 74oz a day and Im going for three days how many gallons of water do I need to bring?? Yes...I know im the teacher but...im a teacher of babies....no math involved! uh.oh i was wrong....the respite worker is here!! Forgot she comes at 4:30!!! Well...then must go answer the door...and get ready to leave at 5 for wedding. Have a good afternoon..... Jodi

You are doing great!! Why you dont think so..I dont know. Have you only had one fill so far since surgery??? Perhaps this could be why you arent loosing more rapidly? Ive had a fill each month since the surgery and I believe this really helps! I think we have all lost most in the first few months and we are slowing slightely because we are getting used to eating again real foods..no more liquids or keeping to a protein shakes as meal replacements perhaps. Msybe our bodys are getting used to the exercises weve been doing and need new routines. The body gets used to the same type of exercises that we do..and use that to make us gain weight...as opposed to loosing..we need to shake up the routine and trick the body.....so the type of exercise we do each day needs to vary and never be the same two days in a row....this from my trainer who btw wont even do the same exercise the same way more then twice weekly if I see him more then twice weekly....so jogging everyday might not be the best way to loose as the body gets used to that....and compensates. We need to go back to basics....eat slow...proteins, vegetables and get a variety of different activity to engage in every day. Snacking and eating is good..as long as it is good food we are snacking on.... lets all remember why weve been banded and think about all that weve been through to get banded...and the reasons why....keep that journal....write it all down. what we eat, what activities we are engaging in, the water intake..... 64 oz....a day. Keep going....if youve entered a func....sit back and remember!!!! We have been getting a second chance at living healthy!!! Have a great night all... Jodi

Hi Everyone...been a busy weekend... Dassi in the end came home not for good but from Thursday till this morning. The camp found her a ride back and forth so I didnt have to do any of the driving! Yea. We spent the weekend...doing mommy daughter things....mani/pedi, sushi, haircut, shopping for misc items needed for the last three weeks of camp. We also saw "Eclispe" shes a "twightlight" fanatic. She really needed to be home for a few days....she spent several hours on sat...cleaning and organizing her room.....(right before shabbos we ran to staples and got her school supplies) and she got her school supplies all together and organized so she now is ready for school. Worked on sat night on her magazing...typing up all new articles from people who wrote some from camp. Besides all of this.....we spent time talking about "Starlight" and how she felt about what happened why and how....and we cried together and laughed as well. She made copies of all the pictures of Starlight and put together her dog scrap book. She went back on the bus this morning...renewed and regrouped. lol Im glad the camp allowed her to go with her feelings and honored her wishes regarding her short visit to home being what she really needed to do...as opposed to leaving camp for good. Thank you...director for the sensitivity...they have a camper for life. lol Well....Janet...I have to be put in the corner...I exercized three times at gym only this past week...I went to the gym on Wednesday and had a training set for Thursday afternoon but when camp called to say they found a ride for Dassi for the weekend...well I needed to go run food shopping as I now was making shabbos dinner and lunch and Thursday night dinner etc etc and had nothing in the house including milk. Just had what Ive been eating daily and not more. so..needed to do that soooo there went the training and gym for that day....friday was a non stop all day with Dassi see above.....and shabbos cant go at all....however went today and did training and a hour cardio and will be going tomorrow AM....and forward on.... yes...I feel guilty however....Ive realized I have no one to blame except myself. I should be going to the gym in the AM but I just have such a hard time getting there then..I prefer after work but this is the third time that ive planned for PM and didnt get there for what some reason or another....im beginning to realize that if I cant get there in the AM its not going to happen....get there get it done and no worries for what might come up....sooo I changed my work schedule....starting later at work, and leaving later...but going to the gym in the AM....thats that. I will, I will, I will. This week is going to be busy. I have a wedding tomorrow night, Im excited to see people who I havent seen in several years. The wedding is the son of a friend whom we were at with at our bungallow colony for several summers in a row...we still keep in touch but really havent seen much of anyone else besides these friends....so it will be nice seeing everyone else. Of course it will be nice for them all to see me too!!! Thin compared to several years ago..50lbs lighter. There wiill be two other people there who have been banded before me who couched me on.....cant wait to see them. This sounds like such a nice day. Im glad you had such a nice time...enjoy the bag. I love coach. My favorite bags...but for work I use a Marc Jacobs...lol but my heart belongs to coach. Laura, good luck finding the perfect position...My advice as an HR administrator....dont rule out anything...intereview for everything then weigh all the options. You never know where and when the perfect job will come to you and in what capacity....this way you will be in total control and know you can pick from the best their is out there....I have found the best positions have been interviewing for other positions that have little to do with those that ive orriginally intereviewed for...food for thought. Enjoy your parents and visit! I never heard of a class parent that gives money to the teachers....boy what a concept. What I could have used with 200 bucks in my classroom where our budget for the year was only $500. FL. Nice. wow!! You are truly amazing!! I had 300 people at my wedding and Julie I didnt do a thing for it..I had it all taken care of with venues caterer, flowers by Dalzimer and photos by Pace. lol. Dress by some designer Ive since forgotten..however if I had to do this all myself??? heck I wouldnt still be married but still planning. 300 people? Small??? holy...perhaps we should be coming to you for the get together to help you!! I dont know how your doing this all...but you have one lucky daughter and soon to be son in law!! This wedding will be absolutely fabulous and it will be all because of you!!! Jessica, You go girl!! Full scholarship?? So happy for you. You deserve this help. Now you and your husband can focus on better things then money worrys regarding all the costs of nursing school and the extras that are involved....good luck and just focus thats your job now...try to have fun though as well!!! Laurak, This sounds entriguing....not a NY thing...but sounds like so much fun! Sorry you got stuck but sounds like you had a a great time otherwise. Well....must go finish up paperwork. Have a great night all and a great week. Jodi

Wow....so many emotions as Ive been reading all the posts from this past weekend alone. Along with my present disposition regarding...dog, daughter and um, job, exercise etc...I was crying before I even finished first page of posts!! Laura, I wish that every child who was adopted had you for a mother. You can please hug yourself tight with the thought that you have made the birth mom of Nels a happier person knowing that her birth son is has a better life then what she could have done for him that was the biggest gift of all there is no bigger unselfish gift then to give up your own child for whatever reason. She knew he would have a better life. she must have prayed for what she wanted for him and god answered her prayers by sending you and your husband!! Nels will be fine! He is loved and cared for...he allready knew that he wasnt born here....and you allready had the courage to bring up the subject and discuss it with him even though you were scared to death about the after effects! This the hardest part of being a mother and there are those that falter but you....are a hero!! Again...I wish all the babies adopted that I work with mothers like you. Karen, You are truly amazing...the strengh that you possess is on that you do.....the grace and dignitiy that you show regarding family, friends and community is just so admirable. How you can keep things together and organized and done in no time.....with no regard to your self is selfless.....having said that....its time for you to sit and relax!!! Youve had an extremely trying week juggling everything and everyone....and all I keep thinking is who is taking care of Karen meantime??? Karen please...take care of you.....you are so busy taking care of everyone...and I know you dont mind like you said...but please take it slow...and now that this is all over please....take the time to recharge if you can!!! A nice latte?? Away.....perhaps. Lori....thank god....now you can move past this horrible experience....and forget about this...glad he will be getting what he deserves! Gwen, OMG....I think you are doing fabulously!! When I first had the surgery in March...I didnt even lift a thing or exercise, walk etc until 4 weeks post op. I had surgery at 218 lbs. I then started walking and going to gym at a month. oh....and im 45 lol. So..everyone is different and everyones body and experience is difference...its not a race...its what you are personally going to do and change and become......and you arent me and I am not Janet, or Karen or Laura.....so....just follow the doctors orders and....btw my blood pressure was up for a month and half till after surgery higher then even then before...then started coming down....very natural....but again this was my experience.....relax and enjoy this...the first two months BAND HELL!!!! It gets better!!! Jessica, Pink?? fun...but you are right, Nursing school and pink....not really great but for partys its fun. I think you are gorgeous with what you are!!! Highlights and low lights and covering grey lol are nice...anything outside the box for me.....no thanks. Sometimes its nice to have a change...but the real question is why the need? What is it that we are looking for...Im always doing something because Im unsettled inside and need to constantly have change. ADD??? So, I usually move, change furniture, redecorate etc etc. SO.....we are all striving to change our lifestyles..and you are struggling like us all here...so change...but change your life.....dont listen to negativity...you can do what ever it is that you desire....youve come so far...look how much weight youve lost and maintained so far!!! Youve done that all by yourself....that was soooo hard (this i know lol) you can do it..and when someone tells you you cant or maybe you cant or shouldnt....think......pink!!! You took a chance to see what it would look like and didnt like it so changed it back....there is nothing in life that we cant try....we might not like it..find it so challenging that we cant do what might have been to much perhaps....but we can always change those things for something else. But you cant do that if you dont try at all!!! I think youl do great!!!! medication, lifestyle, food and exercise.....the only way...make it work for you Jessica. Fire Island was great this past weekend..... the weather was amazing....cool in the 80's the whole weekend and night needed a blanket??? Indeed. The beach was fabulous and water was cool and calm. Received a letter from Dassi that made me very sad and tugged at my heart....in her letter she wrote how much she missed "Starlight" and how she has cried so much and how her body hurts her and she knows that its because of how she misses her. Well did I cry after that!!! All night...and in the AM called camp and spoke to head counselor and psychologist. My concern was that when Ron...my ex her father died...this is what she had said then....that her body was hurting her, her head and throat and she got sick an awful lot that first year...this is how she internalizes emotions. Shes extremely sensitive as it is but this directly related to that experience...it has taken about three years of therapy and with all the changes....moves and schools etc she....has been such a trooper and has been doing fabulously....until this....and I knew that this was going to be bad....and there was just no choice.... I could have waited till after camp to tell her but then shed never trust me again...this was clear with the psychologist as well...that telling her was important right away....myself...but this was sooo sad. I feel for this little girl who has gone through so much allready. The camp said they will watch her and talk to her and make sure she is okay....and if there is anything at all to be concerned they would call me ASAP and if they thought for a minute that she should come home or I should visit or call then we would do that....everyone agrreed that it would be best for her to stay in camp and until not they we wouldnt hesitate to bring her home. So. im entrusting them to do what they say...and so far theyve done all that that and more....so im confident she is in good hands...and hoping to god that the next letter sne sends is on a happier note. bottom line....I cant blame her for being so sad....Im sad and cry at the drop of a hat now when thinking about Starlight and now even more thinking about her.....ugh its soo frustrating....not knowing gods plan....and its exhausting trying to think of the whys and the what ifs of it all! Okay....venting a bit now sorry. Exercise...so far...Monday did an hour/half yesturday didnt go to gym but went bowling instead played two games...havent bowled for years!! yes, should have gone to gym as well but there is only so much time in one...day for one or two extra curricular activities besides work....lol (cop out for sure) Today. going to train with trainer at 6PM. Weight training.... Have just started getting to 4x week.....exercising.....hate it hate it hate it......but am doing it and when I dont.....I feel GUILTY!!! so...must do it!! Im thinking of swimming at the town pool havent been there yet but after training just might add that into the sched...somehow...twice weekly. Linda....the pics from the wedding are gorgeous!! you had asked about the dates Im going on every night?? lol......well that was only one week and I actually cancelled one....I just couldnt do it!! I have all these people who want to set me up with people now....and thats great but guess what???? Who the heck has time for dating?? Im busy working and exercising and going to Fire Island. This is my time, is there more time in a day??? yes...there is and I need to organize and clean and get settled in this apt once and for all. Its been a year and I still dont have real curtain rods up??? Makeshifts are only going to last so long! Every night is another project. The closets, the drawers, the filing boxes, the pictures, the cupboards...each a different night for about two hours or so. I dont have time to just date anyone. Everyone said....you have to eat dinner so....make a date every night for dinner and thats how you will date. So that week I told you all about....I did that...by the third night I was so crazed about spending an hour and half at dinners with people who really werent all that um hmm to say it nicely "werent for me". The stress of it all...the dressing and thinking about what to wear and the getting showered dressed etc.....geez this was exhausting......much preffered exercise that I hate. The thing about this dating.,..people have been asking soo now are you ready to date....and im thinking okay sure now I am..and all of a sudden out of the woodworks have come the phone calls and shadchuns....(matchmakers) and parents and even rabbis....its downright hilarious really....but as soon as the word was out in the community...it feels like the vlutures has set in. So...I figured while Dassi is in camp ill set up a date for everynight.....well that in theory worked well maybe for someone who isnt working and in the beginning stage of banding and making lifestyle changes!!! NO NO NO.m So...as I said I went on three dates that weeks....have decided that maybe one date a week with someone whom Ive spoken to several times on the phone before hand....would I be willling to have a date with at all. I just dont have the energy, time or sanity for this!!! Everyone is not happy but too bad. Im not in a rush to meet someone..if I do thats great if I dont thats great too!! As far as LV guy....yes I hear you all and you are all right!!!! Thanks for reminding me however, after one week of talking again and making plans etc etc .....I started seeing that same ole same ole and said...STOP. Not going there again. When I come in Oct. Ill meet him for dinner after the weekend or come a day sooner...but hell if im going to waste any time other then that with him....no thank you...what was I thinking..... Janet...it was you who said what the heart wants it wants but it doesnt want this that much! lol Someone else said....find someone here in NY....that is a much better option!! Thanks...for helping out MOMS!!! That was just bad bad and would be badder!! lol well.... off to get ready for exercise.....have a great day all!!! Jodi

Karen so sorry for you and your families loss. Will have you and them in prayers.

Hi everyone, seems really quiet in here....where is everyone. I know...vacations. Well, hope everyone is enjoying there summmer....and feeling great. I just got my third..or fourth fill, not sure. lol. 4th month. maybe three. Have lost 50 llbs. Another 20 to go. This summer has been really amazing.....firstly for the first time...Im wearing bathing suits at the beach and not covering up even walking for miles just in that bathing suit...and im looking hot! lol Well, not as hot as the 20 yr olds but for 45 not bad at all. Im happy!! Eating right, feeling good. Exercising daily. Still have my trainer twice weekly. Have been going at least 2x more to gym for cardio. Last night bowled for first time since weight training started...and now am using a 12 ball. lol I like you Cynthia have been going through clothing like crazy! I clean out my closet twice monthly. Ive given away all the clothes that are too big every damn stich of them...as they will never have a place in my closet again. I have replaced them with the most amazing clothing that my step mother has given me....she was a CEO of a major company and had just retired before my surgery....and now is not wearing any of her work clothes,...and she is a size `14-16...and hello.....here I am at 12-14. For the past two months have been dressed to kill...lol Olmost a good incentive to stay at this size but not enough!!!! Will be taking all these clothes at the end of the month and having them altered they are so worth it...and I cant afford to buy anything new at all....so must do that. Eventually wont be able to do that anymore but for the next 6 months ill be okay. Then hopefully ill win the lottery. lol Had my three month blood tests done two weeks ago...and i seem to have a vitamin D defficiency. So, now am taking 5,000 a day. Cant understand that one....If I went to my dermatologist today shed kick my butt if she saw how tan I was....lol but, guess im not absorbing the "D". Well....theres my update for the week. Cynthia, sounds like you had a great vacation all in all! Thats great. When I went to Fire Island for the week I gained three pounds. Since lost it and another 5 pounds but was so dissapointed. It happens I hear...so be proud very very proud!! Keep up the great work. Laura, Welcome....and its never to late to join any thread.... Your reason is a great one!!! Shes adorable. Mine was my 11 yr old. Children seem to be some of most driving forces for getting healthy. Good luck and keep up the good work. Exercise and eating right....changing the lifestyle that weve had before surgery will keep off the weight.....thats the only way. So....we will always have to do the above..forever. Our driving force..... our children!!! Welcome, Welcome, Welcome. Bob, Hi Sounds like you are doing great!! Thanks for the post....keep in bragging, youve earned the right too!!! I seem to be loosing about 10 a month as well however this past three weeks only lost 5 pds. Not to worry....they will come off shortly. lol Hope all is well with everyone else. Would love to hear some updates....at least once monthly would be great. Have a great week all. Jodi

JULIE THAT IS FANTASTIK!!! IM SO HAPPY FOR YOU. Hi Everyone, Hope all is well. Its been a busy week. Visiting day was Sunday at camp and yea..she will be staying till August 23rd when camp ends. WOO HOO. We had a nice day up at camp with her after we told her about Starlight. That was so sad. It was probably just as bad as telling her about her father 3 years ago. The tears that ensued for about 1/2 hour straight was just heart wrenching. Sure glad that I was able to be there for her when we told her as apposed to on the phone or in a letter. You all were right in telling me to wait till visitiing day to tell her. Thank you. I gave her my the Poem Rainbow Bridge..which I downloaded and printed and stapled to a big picture of Starlight and read the beutiful letter that the VET sent us.....She was very comforted by these things. I gave her the start of the memory book that I started as well....we will finish it together when she returns. Im just glad all that is over with....until she returns and actually sees the dog not here...that will be another story. This week has been extremely busy....with Sunday being the beginning....Monday was back to regular sched and trying out the new routine....Monday and Thursday training, with Marty and Tues, Wed, Fri...cardio for an hour or so. So far this has worked for one week...going to see if this is doable...for the rest of the summer..give or take a few.... Have gone on a date Monday night for dinner..and tonight I have another date....and then tomorrow another...lol Did not plan it for all in one week however...seems to have been the first week that I was available so..it just kind of happened...but...really thats all they are. Not expecting anything more. The only one that really right now is looking good for the going more then a few dates is Joe...who I met on Fire Island. I dont think that this is going anywhere serious...but we seem to enjoy alot of the same...and hes good company. More then that...remains to be seen. Going to Fire Island this weekend. Cant wait. Missed it for two weekends. Now ready to go back for weekends in August except for two. Next weekend and weekend after. So..what will I be doing next weekend?? hmmm. Was invited to go out to Vegas. yes. the place I never wanted to go near again. Seems to me that this place and me are drawn together. So will be there for this weekend....and our get together weekend...a month later. lol I just cannot believe that I have allowed myself to get involved again.....but again, this isnt going to work out. I allready see it but again.... what could be so bad? Its a weekend...and it will be a wonderful get away. I will be treated like gold... The thing is....its nice for a weekend but not forever. Being treated like gold...is great but I live in the real world and that world warrants being in the trenches. Its not a reality....and I dont want it...however, it could be nice for a while. Not like I dont like the guy...but nothing will ever come from it. He understands this as well. As long as I keep that in mind what harm could a little fun be? So, tickets are bought for both trips. Complimentary...now I just need to figure what to do with Dassi that week. Do not think that I will bring her in the end in Oct. The timing is problamatic. Its the last days of a major holiday and I think for everyone it would be best if she spend it with her friends here where she will not be compromised, The holiday is from Thursday night till Sat night....and so its not like its a regular shabbat. She is not going to understand being at a hotel and blowing off this major holiday just so I can meet you all....I understand fully well how its important for me...but not for her. So. best have her stay here where she doesnt need to know her mother is blowing off this holiday to meet you all....and oh not sorry about it either lol. Its okay there will be other holidays. Not like im thinking alot obout shabbatot when she is not here.. It will be hard to get back into tha routine when she returns again. Ive actually been really okay at Fire Island...as it is a Kosher orthodox house...so shabbos has been a real shabbos there..but here alone...not much. Have so much to do and so little time to do it...cleaning organizing, getting it all together in the apt. before she gets home...the weekends im not away isnt easy. Im excited about meeting you all...... Julie, okay....need to get on that mailing list...but who am I sending all the information too and whats that e-mail address? Gwen,Ten llbs is great!!! You are doing super!! Keep it up. I didnt exercise at all for the first month. My doctor was very conservative about that. After the first month however it was like go at em....lol so I did..wasnt easy. I still hate it but...I have to say if it wasnt for that trainer...I would never get to the gym. I know I have to go for two times to meet him..no ifs and buts...wish I could do more but so expensive. If I dont exercize I dont loose enough weight. It makes the difference it really does. Ill be going camping in Bethel Woods. Its in the Catskill region. We are going for retrofest....a music weekend where they had the big music festival in the 60s. Janet. Thanks for the phone update! I have a blackeberry....so maybe then it will work for me...funny about your grandson and erasing his contacts and you being able to see them on the bill if you wanted to. lol. How true...but you are right..he is protecting his privacy and its nice that you respect that, but funny that he doesnt think you can get this from the bill. Teenagers..they are so in the moment. lol Janet....you wrote.... "Girl - I am concerned about you and Mr. Vegas - you were so against seeing him - now you are going to - Do you want to show off the weight loss and say look at me now - look at what you missed out on.. That's cool as long as that's all it is - be careful - I am going to have a chock collar on you ;0)" well....as wrote above...i will be careful and yes....you might have to put that choke collar on me....but its not about the weight loss....but it will be nice to show off...no he liked me no matter what. I think whats different now is that there are some thought of the possible prospects here in NY now that is keeping grounded? I know that Im not moving there and he isnt moving here and now.....its okay because he isnt the only "one" and its okay that hes wheeler and dealer and is living that VEGAS lifestyle.....I think I can seperate it now....I know its just what it is a weekend here and there,,,,,and not looking to see how to mesh my life and live for only the times we can fly and be together and wait for these times only? You know what I mean? Before it was..lets see about the possibilities of getting our lives together and moving to LA or VEGAS and marrying him. Nope...now that is not even a thought....I dont want that and so it will be what it is....a um um fling? And the once or twice a year this will happen....is well thats okay....unless....of course it gets too much to deal with emotionally and then it will be the end again lol. but, that will be okay too as I will not become so emotionally invested this time around. See.....all this because the get together is in VEGAS!!! lol Next time must be somewhere else!!..... so dont worry to much...it will all be good. Of course ill let you know after next weekend. lol Laura, Finially that tooth...which was driving you crazy!!! I know what that feels like...Dassi had a loose tooth this past year...I swear it was for like 6 months or so. It just wouldnt come out. Finially the last month it was like on its last string...even the permanent tooth under it was growing allready and was pushing the baby tooth half up..Gross really, She couldnt bite anything hard for about a month or so...frustrating. I wanted to pull that tooth!!! I didnt....I just let it go...it finially came out in F,I in June. She was so happy. Me too...Nice thing at 11 yrs old? No more believing in the tooth fairy or actually not so nice. lol Janet, thank you for that refresher course.....lol I actually realized how much ive been slacking now that the summer is here and Im running all over and no responsibilties...Dassi and now no dog to have to walk and feed and take care of..spend time.... Have not been keeping that log and counting the calories. Yes, im still loosing weight and getting into shape but....Ive not been loosing alot of weight like last month or the months before since surgery. Ive only lost 8 llbs this past month and half and have only 15 to go. F.I. has been challenging but now there is no excuses!! Needed to hear all that you posted again.....time to get back to the basics. Logging daily intake and calorie counting. Deff gotten of the path...going to start back on from scratch. Today!!! Judy....sorry to hear about your fridge....glad that it is working again. Hope you did not eat all that food defrosted.....just cooked it all and by that time it was fixed and you were able to save everything.....and now its all cooked and ready to defrost and eat. Karen, so glad the weekend went well and you had a great time....Praying the dentist went well and you are well on your way to the prettiest smile ever!! Linda, looks like a beutiful wedding! Glad you enjoyed. Lori....how awful it must have been to recap that terrible moment for your husband to have to relieve through all that again.....but glad for you guys its over...and thinking how brave you both were to testify....good for him and you for supporting him. Oh, Julie..your post about the experience about the dog....omg....for a minute there you must have been freaking...thinking how your DD...is going to kill you!!! But...that little dog....after all was said and done..like you said thankfully lived to see another day. Pets...like kids always something isnt it? well....I am tired..now woke up at 5 and decided to post and now its 7:30 and im tired..going back to sleep for an hour lol. Have an apt. with surgeon and the enodcronolist about those test results today....well see if there is anything going on that needs to be um....rectified. Hope nothing serious with thyroid. Checked out fine before surgery...wonder whats up now..but will find out soon enough today. Have a great day all.... Jodi

Hi everyone.... Yes...now I understand what stuck is like!!!! OUCH,OUCH,OUCH and more OUCH. Today.....I got seriously stuck. Im not sure why though. I went to Costco and they had this bag of healthy vegetables vaccumed cooked with sea salt. Thought ahh these might be good. They were made with Palm oil. lol There was sweet potatoes, carrots, peas and green beans. Well....I was hungry when got in the car and opened the bag and took a handful out and the rest I put away. I took a bite of the sweet potato it tasted like a chip but they werent fried...see above. (made sure) and emmediately felt stuck. Waited a few minuets and was okay and took another two bites and thats when the feeling hit. Like a ton of bricks and everytime I tried to swallow I felt like a golf ball was in my stomach? Then needed to burp or wanted to and spit saliva.....but was still in pain. Drove slowely home. Threw the rest of handful out and then trashed the whole bag in the garbage.( Not eating those ever again! ) Ran upstairs and spit up again saliva that tasted like sweet potato? Wanted to throw up but didnt. (good thing) Made some Peppermint sleepy time tea....and by the time I fhished half I felt better! What the heck??? I could only assume that the sweet potato was too dense even in a chip? Cant explain it any other way. Any takers on this one? It was an experienve I do not want to have repeated. Watched what I ate after, only soft mushies and liquids for me the next 24 hrs. I got my blood tests back from surgeon. Apparently am defficient in vitamin D. Not calcium but D. So off to buy some D. Did some research and there are those that think we should be taking at least 5,000 BTUs of D daily as we are not living outside and that is why we are all vitamin defficient in D. Interesting...but I think Il start with 1000or so....the surgeon said 1000 and my reg mulit vitamin has 400. They also said I need to see the endochronologist,,,,something about my TPC something number was low..which is associated with a calcium deficiency but that result was fine so...the concern is why then are these low? SO....made an apt for Wednesday to find out. Oh the Liquid protein that I use...is called PRO-STAT 59. Hospital grade pure protein. This is what is used here east in the hospitals for the Bariatric surgery and surgery recovery for wound repair. I ordered it online from a home health care company here in NY. It doesnt sell in stores. It tastes better then the sweet taste of isotopes....I tried so many. lol I hated them all. This is tollerable. I couldnt tolerate any of the protein drinks and foods from barriatric choice..ended up throwing all out. Finailly found the why protein powder I liked as well. Now I really dont use either except for a bad day when I dont have protein in a meal. Sunday is visiting day...pray she wants to stay! Please Please Please. lol Not out at Fire Island this weekend...Next weekend. The following weekend camping upstate...and then the next three weekends out again to the Island. Every weekend is booked in August, oh wait there is one after this weekend....I think im going to um Las Vegas. Yes all laugh laugh.....but I insist that we are just friends. I cant afford to be more emotionally and financially for that matter. lol. Dont ask. Joe the guy I met on F.I is still around...we went out last night but he went to visit his parents who have a house on F.I this weekend. Thats how we met and he joined our share as the house they have is far from town. So. wont see him till Monday night. Hes nice but .....im not convinced. I like him but....theres something that well.....there are some red flags. Im trying to keep an open mind but I usually am good about these feelings. Its early yet. But dont think its going to go far. I think its going to be a summer thing and thts all. I could be mistaken and would be suprised if it continues....for now its nice..he treats me nice..is good company, fun and shares healthy mindset now......so im going with the flow.... I also have been just meeting people?? Its a little strange but it seems that people are maybe more interested? I dont know...its kind of strange...havent really felt like ive been atracting many people but I seem to feel like people are wanting to be with me?? Am I imagining this? I seem to feel like people are treating me differently now that ive lost all this weight and am looking better...did anyone experience anything like this as they lost their weight? I even feel like the people where I work are looking at me different and treating me more seriously perhaps? Maybe im demonstrating more confidence. That could be...I feel more confident, stonger, more capable? I like it!! lol Well....Got my hair cut and touch up done on hair. Had a mani and pedi. It was a month since I had that! My nails were looking so pitiful but hadnt had a chance since this week. Now I feel better! Im ready for um um.. Greats party!!! Fortunately her husband didnt invite all the world as she would be flipping out! lol I hope it goes well for them....im sure it will! Julie, I have never heard of such a thing.....rude is what it is! But after reading some reponses of everyone posts...I agree I guess there are valid reasons why some doctors would choose to sever the relationship. I think it was as everyone suggested....he couldnt do any more for you...and so he gave up. I like the idea of Cherri and the note alot! Good luck in any way you decide to deal with it or ...not deal with it...its your choice. Gwen. I hate exercize as well....like the plague. I do realize however that If I loose weight great but all the hanging skin?? hell no. Ive got to tighten and firm up those muscles and skin. So far so good however....I hate exerize so much that I needed to take a trainer twice weekly to get started. I would never have started going to gym if not for that.....I would never get there...there would be one excuse after another and im the queen of excuses! lol So, I hate it but I go. Now I am going four times a week at least. Not sure what will happen when Dassi comes home...back to two?? nooo I am determined to go the same amt of time. Ill just have to figure it out! Must...continue and not break momentum. Janet Wrote; "Oh got new house phones from Costco - you can sync your cell phones to them (2) and use them (house phone) like a blue-tooth for your cell phone - and you are suppose to be able to download your contacts from your cell into the house phone - only $79 + tax - you get a base/answering machine and 3 handsets... They are charging right now - so gotta wait for another hr or so and see if it works (the cell thru the house phone and downloading contacts) How cool will that be".. Janet I want this phone!!! Must have this phone!! Im going to get this phone....after you tell us all how to work it! lol Well.....I must get to sleep....am exhausted. Good night all. Have a great weekend. Jodi

Gwendolyn, Thank you so much for this poem!! Im going to print this and bring it to her on Sunday for buisness. I cried like you cannot believe.....but im okay now and so appreciate that you took the time to find this for me!! Thank you, Thank you, Thank you! Jodi

Hi. all. Thanks for all your kind words about "starlight" she was a sweet dog. It was strange coming home and not having to walk her today however, I know in another month there will be plenty of other dogs coming in....for foster care...so am kind of thinking this should be new for a while...not having to come home to walk/feed the dog...wow. Now what?? I can go out all day and into night without coming home first. I can sleep at someone elses....mom, friends in city....etc etc. hmm what a concept. Still am sad and cry every time I think or talk about her...but its not so bad...as I know shes in a better place! Its just so quiet at home without her and with Dassi away the quiet is killing me!!! Needed to put on some music. Today I tried to fast as it was the fast of Tishabaav however it was so hot...I drank by mid day and the eating??? I never realized what hunger really feels like with the band......excrutiating!!! Like....being pregnant and needing to eat like right this second! The growling in the stomach and then the nauseasnus.....that ended the fasting real fast. lol I never felt so bad was kind of shaky. Usually am good about fasting but apparently not any more. I think god will forgive me and if not...oh well add it to the list. I received my blood tests back from the surgeons office....Iron and Proteins good....calcuium good but Vitamin D defficient....now when I tell you ive got the tan of the season I mean it and if id walk into my dermatologists office shed shoot me....so how the heck?? So I need to take Vitamin D supplements. The other slightely more disturbing result is my TP something with thyroid,....something PTC..something or other numbers is too low. This apparently usually goes hand in hand with a Calcium deficiency but those numbers are good. So, need to see the endocronologist again to check this out as it isnt necessararily a good thing,...any thinkers on what this could mean??? other then that all blood work good.....no gall stones in the making or anything else. I guess thats good. I didnt go to gym today as I was trying to fast....and my mother was coming over in the late afternoon.....was also meeting Joe for about an hour...in between work and meeting ,mom for dinner. After work..decided to stop at the thrift shop and picked up a few skirts and shirts...as mine are getting too big again, yea!!! I will go to gym again tomorrow afternoon. Yes, this is that friend. achem. You know...now that im banded 5 months....and looking great and feeling great...I kind of was thinking....what the hell? I am in control. We can be friends. Bottom line..I could not go to Vegas without telling him...Id feel horrible and guilty and jumpy so...needed to tell him and get it over with. Yes, its true that I dont want to go there with him again....but maybe we can be friends? This is what I thougt.....before telling him. Well....he is so excited about us coming...even as friends so he can make up for the past "mistakes" he would like us to be friends..and see if we can now. As we really were good friends. He also wanted me to come out before that time...before Dassi comes back from camp where he would fly me out and wine and dine me so to say.......so im afraid its too late for not going there...however as I wrote.....at the beginning here....I am in control better then before...and I can now put things in better perspective and weed out all the bull and not get taken in again. Hes a nice guy but hes a a bit much...hes a music/ production manager....that should explain things. Ill keep you posted on this..... besides there are so many more prospects here in NY now....lol Apples...Why cant sausage be Kosher???? This sounds fabulous!! Enjpy the party. You are amazing...you will get it all together no dought in a pinch. Cant wait to hear about it. Congrats, Laura on your Bandiversary!!! Janet, that Zoey sounds so adorable!! More pics please! Okay.....have a good night all......Hoping to get a glimpse of Starlight at the Rainbow Bridge if not for a moment just so I know shes okay....might be nice...but if not so be it. lol Have a great night all. Jodi

Hey. all....hope everyone is doing well. Well....today I had to put my "starlight" to sleep. I could have waited longer but for what?? Her to suffer? Dont even know if she wasnt really suffering now but the VET said....it was the right thing to do now. Its been a long time since she was well....we took her in when she was sick and battled what ever she had....for 6 yrs one symptom at a time....but she just was falling apart and everything we tried....worked for a little and then stopped and then some other thing came up and so we were like putting bandaids on the leaks starting to spring over her body but in the past few weeks they started to just all come apart one at a time... .and the VET just said.....look shes sick and has been for a long time....and you need to make a choice that you dont necessarily want to but need to do if not today then very soon. So....decided that since Dassi allready said goodbye to her before she left for camp knowing that she probably wouldnt be here when she returned....I said lets just do it now....why prolong things any longer...and he said "I think your making the right decission". so....I said goodbye and held her the whole time....and it was sad...soo soo very sad. But...I know it was right....We rescued her from being euthenized 6 yrs ago and took her in the night that they were going to put her to sleep. Nursed her back to health.....but that cost a fortune and well.....nothing really got 100 percent. She had such bad allergies, ear infections, eye problems and skin problems that she was always on medications....and then some. The VET....all of them were like.....the worst theyve seen and really we should have never taken her home in the first place. ( we were happy we did) She was the sweetest dog ever. Not really a cuddler, or particularly loving but she had her moments that she was jut so happy....to be with us. So....now the VET said...look no more purebreds from the shelter especially cocker spaniels as they are prone to so many problems...they have been brought to the shelter and given up for a reason (unless they were lost strays) ..and the major reason is because they were not able to be taken care of because of medical conditions or behaviors...and before taking one of the fosters in you must bring them in for a full exam.....must check them out as you dont want this again to happen. And as I write this ..it still doesnt make me feel any less sad, angry, and frustrated that I couldnt do more. Now I just have to figure out how to tell Dassi and when..... Do I just say the truth in a letter?? a bunk e-mail? call her?? wait till Sunday at visiting day? when she returns?? She knows that this is what was going to happen..but when you have to tell her....when its done is a different story. If I dont...shel never trust me again...to go away and not to tell her things so shel not want to go away....or shel hate me for doing this before she returned without her. or who knows what 11 yr olds will think and are thinking.... For all I know...she could care less..as she said her goodbyes allready and in her mind she was allready gone. So, am sad...tonight. not that sad however, that I didnt go to the gym and train...and then spent another hour and half after doing cardio...then spent 1/2 hr in the steam room and showered there at the gym which never did before... did this because..I didnt want to go home to an empty house where Starlight wasnt going to be.....but at least I wasnt eating!!! That would have probably been what I would have done before banding....eating....chinese food and ice cream and who knows what else, drowning myself in comfort fast food and yummy...ice cream. lol. No....I stayed at the gym till 10 and then came home and it wasnt so bad...... I need a break from taking care of everyone and everything for a while. Ive got one week.....if Dassi doesnt stay for second session to be by myself....totally not responsible for anything or one.....wierd. Not sure what to do or how to feel about this..... so think ill just sleep on it and not think about it too much tonight!!! Damn straight there is.....called "KARMA". My friend is managing the "John Lennon Show" at the hotel I mentioned...forgot now. Yes.....Free tickets for us all....for either Friday or Sat night. oh Planet Hollywood. Thats if we would like them. He can also get us in to other shows but not for free with discounts. I think the Desert Rose is the place we stayed at when my dad was in the hospital there. Not sure if Ill be staying at the Hotel with you all or at my friend. It will be alot of money for me and this way I can save on that...but would spend the time except for sleeping with you all. Id like to but I think it would be problamatic for Dassi as it will be shabbos and all so not sure how to work this all out. I also didnt want to really be in touch with this friend...but what the heck! Why not. Maybe we can just be friends now its been two years. He is happy to have me stay at his two bedroom with Dassi....so why not??? Tell me why not????? Maybe I allready know...however I cannot go to Vegas without telling him or seeing him or even staying with him. I just cant....so thats that....it will be okay...???? I wont get sucked back in I wont! I wont I wont! I have been using a clear liquid protein. Hospital grade. The kind you get right after surgery. The ones that come in those plastic packages. They come in big bottles as well and you can order them from a site that carries hospital grade products or home health care products. I forgot the name of the bottle. lol Senile...slightely. I have two bottles, one I left at work and one on Fire Island so will post the name and the site that I got it from tomorrow. This liquid is not bad....much better then the bariatric or the isytopes (spelling) ...I hated all of these I tried so many they made me so sick and the whey proteins....omg they curdled in my stomach olmost..see my beginning posts lol....and the aftertasted yuck! ...I started using the whey powder "CHALLENGE" that I love and tastes yummy! Did some research before trying them all out....if you again see all those neurotic beginning posts....and the results for the research that I conducted was, Not all "whey" protein powders are equal. "When choosing whey protein...you should choose a minimally processed, hormone free, whey produced with low temperatures to maintain the benefits of raw milk including immunoglobulin and lactoferrin, which supports the immune system, and cysteine, which is a precursor of gluthaione, a nutrient that helps protect the effects of aging, illness, infection, trauma, amd more, but is difficult to absorb directly. Whey from grass fed cows also contains a healthy balance of essential fatty acids". This research was from a book on supplements by Fran Sussman regarding Superfoods. Laura, Sounds so fabulous...and you sound like you are just fabulous!!! Glad you are having a great week. Enjpy. The pics are amazing!!! Thanks for sharing. OMG , I love yout annectodes regarding your little puppy. She sounds so sweet and you just know by your writing that you love her so much!!!! She sounds precious and the FB post....that was the best!!! well. Hope all is well with everyone else.... Must get to sleep.....have a great night all. Jodi

okay posted two!!! BACK!!!!! WOo HOO

I have no idea why that posted...beginning to think computer is possesed!!! So..to continue.....lol It was the first vacation in 15 years that I got a) paid for and :smile: I didnt feel fat, different, bad, depressed, and needing to cover up?? etc etc etc need I go on?? Linda, the weekend visitor?? haha. Had to think about who, what, where, when? and then remembered....St Louis guy. Well, it was a nice weekend...but he will never be anything more then that, a good friend. Im glad we had lots of people over all weekend so we were never alone...and Dassi never needed to even contemplate that this might be someone more of a friend to me. It was good to find this out....wonderful guy not ready for serious at all...so that is that...but.... in Fire Island did meet someone.....someone who is nice and easy to talk to and enjoy each others company but....its only been two weeks. We spent a few evenings out in Fire Island...with lots of other people. We went on one real date this week here in the city. That was night. He is in my share house so he will be with us the next two weekends we will be out. Something to look forward to. That should be fun....but dont want to think about anything more then just getting to know each other...with others around and then some time alone during the week....Ill see how the rest of the summer goes..but dont really think it will be more then a summer thing....after Sept. probably not going to go further but who knows? Nice to have someone to share some experiences on the Island. It is romantic...and can be so..sureal so not counting on more then that. On to the more practical. I lost 50lbs to date. Another 15 -20 to go. Been eating well....taking the vitamins, and exercizing.....granted...F.I. was different exercise...didnt gain or loose any more...then before I left the last two weeks but thats okay..glad I didnt gain. Been doing alot of reading on healthy eating and foods in general....and the next step is to change the salt Im eating. Celtic Sea Salt is apparently the healthier salt to use. Distilled water as opposed to just filitered and organic eggs, milk and chicken. Eating only sprouted breads and crackers. These are the changes that I have implemented over the last few weeks...apparently these changes are helping with becoming more healthy overall but research has demonstrated helping with weight loss as well. okay....well Ive now posted another two hour post and if it doesnt post.....im going to just have to scream!!!

JANET, YEA YOU!!! SO happy for you and thank you for sharing this post and those that youve posted before. You did forget one thing that you might not think helped you through this...but I know!!! The fact that you had so many people that you have helped through your journey!!!! This had to play some role in your success.....you help others! That has got to have helped you! Okay...just lost another part of this post......Must have pressed back button. so...here goes again...... Las Vegas....im in....but I have not yet made reservations....because I work only several weeks in advance only...unlike all you organized woman!! So.... one night we are all going to get tickets the John Lennon Show....at planet holywood complimentary of course. I will probably come in for the week...maybe with Dassi. We both are on vacation that week...so might as well make it a vacation? Not sure how she will fit in but thinking about it! What hotel are we planning to stay at?? well.....Fire Island was great. I posted a two hour post...about it...and me and feelings about getting in touch with myself....etc etc but It didnt post! Then I posted abreived version....that didnt post. So....now you are getting a few lines soo sorry!!!! It was amazing....the beach, the town, the deck...alone, with people....with family and friends. Ocean, restaurants, bars. Spent time....reading, walking, cycling, swimming, people watching, sun bathing and hell yes......am tan!!! and oh yes....I wore a bathing suit..(not bikini) and cover up all week. I felt great. I looked good...and I felt good!!! In a nut shell....first vacation in 15

Hi all. Yes, its been a while for me as to posting.....Its been a busy summer and while on vacation there was no online connection. Thank god for Blackberrys to keep in touch with everyone...but was not able to post. Heres an update: Doing really well. Its been 4 months and ive lost so far 50lbs, as of last week. Down to 165, another 20 to go till goal. Of course I can go to 140....maybe 135?? to far too even think about!! I should be between 135-145. Im happpy now!! More Important then the actually weight loss...no more pills, (blood pressure, prevacid, cholesterol) no sleep apnea so no more CPAP. Im a happy camper...and doing the happy dance. Ive read all the posts since my last post and see that everyone seems to be doing great!!!! All those who updated..it was nice to hear how you are all doing. Ive had three fills so far....I go back next Thursday to discuss blood tests done this past week. We will know then what vitamins and nutrients have diminished or needed. I seem to have developed some marks on legs arms and back and they look like little black and blue marks.....the PA suspects an iron deficiency. But who knows. I feel great. Been taking all vitamins and calcium etc etc. Ive been exercizing daily at gym for cardio 45 to an hour. and have trainer twice weekly for strenght training. I hate both. lol but do it anyways. Been out to Fire Island for vacation for two weeks...before that was busy with getting my daughter to camp. Ive been home for a week now..and just getting back into a routine. While in F.I. I exercized differently then the gym and well...cycling. swimming and walking was not nearly enough exercize but...it was what it was. I didnt loose or gain so cant complain I was warned that on vacation....well you can gain...but I was happy I didnt. well.....thats my update. have a great day. Its all about the spirituality more then anything else. I enjoy all music but theres a special place in my soul for Jewish music. Not Israeli persay.... Jodi

Oh thank god..that posted!!! lol

Hi all. Back from Fire Island and settled some. Will be posting tomorrow...but too tired from reading all these posts that Ive missed for the last three weeks. Tried to post while on the Island and neither of those posts got posted...spent a good few hours on them and lost them all!!! Hope all is well with everyone tonight...sure have missed you all..... but am back!!! Have a great night all!!! Jodi

Hi all, Im baaack! For a few days anyhow.....I am out in Fire Island this Friday for another ten days. My vacation as a single hehee. We are having a womans week out. Am excited about it. Havent had a vacation without Dassi as of yet. After this past month...well could use some time alone or with other adults. Dassi goes to camp tomorrow. Luggage has been packed and sent to camp last week. We got back from F.I. late Sunday and weve been running around since then getting all the last minute things done. Hair cut, buying sneakers, stationary, stamps. manicure and pedicure oh and this year...a new one...waxing arm pits! yes that was a shock even for me but apparently "all" the girls are getting that done now. HMMMM Well I spoke to several mothers and sure enough the girls are as they are getting some hair...(not enough) but, if I want Dassi to wear sleaveless shirts as she put it..then she needs to shave....that wasnt happening so I guess a wax couldnt really hurt. I guess shes growing up and I have to let her somewhat. So....cant wait till tomorrow when I can take a breath and sit down and just do nothing for the next 8 weeks! (not that I will but the thought is nice!) Fire Island was great. The week was fantastic.....we cycled and walked the beach everyday. We swithed off ridding in the AM or walking and then switching what ever we didnt do in the PM. One day we half rode/walked to the F.I. lighthouse from where we were which was about 5 miles. That was some exercise.....walking bikes through sand and dirt half way. Dassi wanted to do this...if id have known this was going to be so difficult I would never had gone this distance....but she insisted! So..we treked on and did it! 5 there 5 back. We both couldnt move after this one day....we limited our treks up to 3 to 4 miles in the AM and then in the PM. We had a great time on these little excursions visiting neighboring towns and taking walks on the beach talking and swimming etc etc. It was nice spending time with Dassi in this way. We had some company for several days. My brother and mom came out for a day and slept over with my niece and nephew. Had a BBQ and spent time at the beach. At the beginning of the week a friend came out with her two kids and that was fun for two days. We spent two days alone and that made up the week...so all in all it was a great vacation as far as "Family time" goes. Food this week was good!! I have to say....that we ate really healthy...fish, chicken and one night we had steak. Ate alot of veggies and fresh fruit. Kept the protein up and ate a little carbs, mostly in veggies and salad stuff or spelt breads, chumua and peanut butter. I hadnt weighed in since before going away and today weighed in at 160!! Lost 8 pds over the last two weeks! WOW I guess all that daily excersize and keeping to healthy eating and small portions helped alot!!! I was nurvous how this was going to work ....without the gym and having to bring out all the food and not eat out every day/night at the fabulous restaurants available. Only ate out twice. One dinner and one breakfast. It was enough. Tomorrow I have my monthly surgeon appointment. Not sure If Ill get a fill or not...but looking to find out if I have lost any more solution and if so....well what does that mean. Im hoping not. I also need to get a new script for that medication to prevent gall stones. Not sure for how long I need to take that but would like to stop. lol That is too large pill. Well...dont really know whats going on. I havent been able to read any posts as we had no service last week..but was promised service this coming week. So....I hope everyone has been good and enjoying summer so far...its been a week into it so far! An update would be great if someone can give one.....otherwise forgive me for not knowing or keeping up....was so peeved that we couldnt get service..felt so lost without getting online but in the end...it wasnt so bad. Needed to do other things besides getting online the whole week and we did!!! well.....must get to sleep as tomorrow morning must get up early for Dassi to get out to busses by 9 and then on to work with the apt at doctors at 3;00. Tomorrow night....hehhe was thinking a bottle of wine and take out chinese....hmmmm thats not happening!!! Best think about how to make sure the food issues stay at bay for the next 8 weeks dont get out of hand. Usually would use this time alone to go bonkers with the ability to eat take out and junk food as there is no one else to shop and cook for every day. Okay......will think about this tomorrw and make sure that im prepared well so this does not happen!!! Will need some help!! Okay have a good night all.....its good to be posting again. Hope all is well Jodi

Its what people call....Life in NY!! Pam, Divorce sucks! Especially when you have are the initiater. One word..."Zoloft". Helped me get through it lol. The insults, rudeness and attempts at picking a fight...the court appearances and hours spent in conferences? ZOLOFT took the edge of all of the punches. I wouldnt normally recommend drugs however sometimes....they can help but only for a specific designated amt of time along with therapy only. It is not the magic cure...as the band isnt. It is a tool to be used with caution. If ever a time to take something....this would be one of them! I hear you.....and empathise...been there, done that and after three years of hell...he passed away. Three months after our divorce came. The only other recommendation....never ever down talk...or curse him or fight with him in front of young kids and relatives...cause as you see.....it may come back and bite you in the butt! My only saving grace....bent over backwards and then some to make sure my daughter never thought badly about her father...in her eyes he was a "ritous man" now I let her think this as well....why shouldnt she think if him that way and set him on a pedastal, who is it hurting?? Hugs your way. We are hear to listen....so go ahead and rant and rave....we arent running. We will try to be as supportive as you need! also...throw in some of our opinions and recommendations even if you dont want them! lol Janet....im holding you to that promise of keeping far away. I know I wont be able to however lol. I stayed in a very nice hotel on the other side of town that was very nice...when dad was in hospital there. A small hospital not the major big one. It was not expensive and smaller...had a small cassino, two restaurants and a cafeteria....We loved it as it wasnt a big humungous thing. In fact....If we stay there...I can get us free shows at night from Tommmy the manager of entertainment. OF course Janet that would mean...contact. lol But will do it as it will save us all money. I can probably get tickets at some other hotels as well...if he has a connection with that hotel. Ill get the name of hotel...I forgot it. We can stay at Monte Carlo if that is what everyone wants....but will be a bag of nurves lol and then.,..um ill eat!!! not good! lol Julie, im sorry again about the funeral. Im sure you did a fabulous job on the food..and putting it all together. Okay well have agreat day!! Jods

I just reread my post as I was rushing to post and realized....that I am dizzy from all thats going on and from just reading about it all as well. lol Sorry...will try to minimize..in the future!!

Hi all...wow....so many posts...so little time to read them all! Been a busy week. For everyone else as well. Have been working hard at getting to the gym everyday this week. Had a training once on Monday and scheduled one for friday. Went to the nutritionist last night and she said if I want to loose more weight and keep it off then I need to start really exercising at least an hour everyday otherwise i wont be able to maintain the loss for long. grumph. I know shes right...but as ive said this is my challenge. Food seems to be okay...but the exercise...Im screaming!!! So, im trying to find the time. I went on Sunday and Monday....yesturday I was busy all day....after work had the nutritionist then needed to pick up medication for the dog which took about an hour. That was two hours after work...then needed to help Dassi get a project together...so needed to buy some food coloring, sparkles and oil. That took about 1/2 hour. I got home around 9. No exercise.....not good Today however, I did go to gym. I got home from work got Dass from bus. Made her dinner, took her to Karate and then I dropped her at home...after giving her a choice to come with and do homework there in the lounge or stay alone. She chose alone and so I said okay....only stayed a few times alone so far. I called her like every ten minutes lol. I went to the gym feeling very guilty that I wasnt spending the hour and half before bed with her reading or doing whatever but not enough to not go to the gym!! I realize that something is going to have to give. Either I decide to go in the AM before work and push work back half an hour or so and stay later...or go after at some point after picking Dassi up and leaving her alone for the hour and half. well....I think I will leave her alone a little more....lol After coming home...I came in the apt and my darling daughter...folded the laundry that was sittling on couch from last night...and put it all away, took a shower and cleaned her room!!! With no help!!! No prodding or conjoling!!! I was shocked. I was like what?? Where has my daughter gone and who is this girl here instead? She replied simply...."Mom I felt so bad that you felt bad that you were leaving me to go work out....and youve been working so hard that I wanted to do this so you wouldnt have to at 10 PM at night! Tonight she earned herself a massage with the massager on her back for 1/2 hour that she loves to get when I have time to give her one. She likes deep pressure input and loves massage and joint compressions daily but dont always have time to do this for her....and now she can do them herself if she really wanted to anyways. She still enjoys when I give her it though. Tomorrow I plan on going in the AM....as after work I have the monthly support group at the hospital with surgeons. Funy...I see his picture right as I read posts here and say..theres my man. Hes with the New York Bariatric Group....you all see him Dr. Sean Garber and my Surgeon Dr. Holover...no picture of him but hes just as cute!! lol Well tomorrow is the support group. After..the group Im going out to dinner with a friend who works by the office. I wont get home till about 10:30 or so. No time for gym then...so I will attempt to get there in the AM and go to work later and leave work later. So far ive not been able to get there in the AM. Im not a morning person and therefore it takes alot to get even to work at a decent hour! I start at about 10 or so. There just isnt enough time in the day. If I want to spend time with Dassi and not run to gym when she is home from school I will have to start going in the morning...yes it is inconvenient but there just isnt another time. Now i just need to resolve that within me and do it. I will, I will, I will. try at least. This weekend I am having a friend come in from St. Louis for Shabbat. It will be interesting as im sure he will be shocked at how much weight ive lost and that he wont be getting the traditional shabbat meal. lol Shabbat there is a big kiddish.. remember that definition?? Fat food!!! Lots of it. He can have it all then. Im a little concerned with him visiting this weekend. My daughter has decided that she isnt going to her friend in the end...as planned. Ive told her we are having a guest for shabbos. This isnt a strange concept for her to have guests..or a guest however, it is a guy and he is someone that I have dated and periodically when he comes in we go out for dinnner or what have you. I went out with him News Years Eve. However, Dassi hasnt met him and this will be um interesting. Of course hes sleeping in the living room on the couch and there will be no physical contact at all as I am still supposed to be a religious woman and therefore I cannot have any contact physically with the other sex even for a hand shake....(of course im 45 and divorced but to Dassi thats the way it is) he probably shouldnt be staying here at all but hes from out of town so...where else could he go? (his relatives I guess but he doesnt want to...(my excuse) he is also "flexodox" so he understands how it will be and agrees totally. It should prove to be an interesting 25 hours. I wonder if he sings at all....(I dont know this) it will be nice to have someone else do all the traditional prayers and such besides me. We will be going out sat night with neighbors across the street that he knows..coincidentally that he grew up with...who I am also friendly with. Dassi is in their daughters class. That should be fun. A date...hmm. lets see how the 25 hrs. go. lol

Hi all. Hope everyone is having an enjoyable relaxing weekend. No. we didnt go to F.I. this weekend...nor are we going next weekend. We are going the following weekend and staying there for the week and then the weekend to follow. I have only 10 weekends left this summer. The share was 12 weekends plus two midweeks two of the weekends are extended weekends as they are holidays so they include a weekend or rather several midweek days leading up to the weekends. Its nice to be home after two weekends away. Dassi had three friends over and that was nice....but they have gone home tonight and that was nice as well lol. Tomorrow is my nieces family bat mitzvah party at my brothers house. This should be interesting as my mother who is 73 has filed for divorce from my step father. They were married for 35 years. I think I posted this before. My brother who is having this party well...he is my half brother so my mother and my step father and all the relatives will be there so it will be an interesting day. Not sure im looking forward to it; going to need alot of liquor at this one. lol Tomorrow night am going for another sleep study to see if I can get off the CPAP now that ive lost 45 llbs although when we were on the Island and I took off the CPAP one morning when I awoke and it was early...my mother woke me to tell me to put it back on as I was snoring very loudly...so I probably still need it but just lowered pressure. Cheri. I told you it was a man who was in charge of getting the gift. lol Your last day was Friday for school? When do you start the year? We end June 25th. Our summer program starts on July 1st and goes to August 11th. Ill be taking vacation the last week of June...(last week of year program). I am also taking the week of July 5th but working the last second to last week of August in leu of that week...as Im not taking it as vacation week. The nice thing about being a full time SEIT in a private home is it is flexible!! I can take off when I want and switch BOE days off etc etc. No body to check or care..I just send an e-mail to the main office telling them my plan and I never hear anything back.... oh crap..just remembered today is the 5th of the month...my invoices are due today and um well they arent done. uh oh. Thats the only time I would ever hear anything from anyone...if I made a mistake on an invoice or I didnt get them in on time..this will be one of those times...tomorrow night. lol Ill do them tomorrow morning. Joyce, WOW. Great site. What a great thing for your husband and you to both do. Special Olympics have allways been something ive supported and gone to with several children that ive worked with over the year. What a great charity to volenteer for!!! Go DH!!! Bubba, Im sorry you are still feeling badly..I agree make that appointment at the Mayo clinic no matter how long a wait. Sometimes you make that first apt and then there is a chance you can get in earlier but youl never know if you dont. Ive worked with several children that have been told they would need to wait several months as well before seeing a particular specialist at Boston or Mass...and yes Mayo and they made the apts and after a month or so was called to reschedule for earlier due to cancelations etc. Apples, hope you are enjpying the lake this weekend. Great, wow...you have your whole block of people to see when you need someone!! A VET, dentist, and several other professionals. Would be nice if they all made house calls. lol I could use a VET next door to me as Im there with my dog alot!! I actually need to go again this week with her I think. The VET thinks she has Cushins disease. Cant be sure without testing but is pretty sure. I am trying some homeopathic stuff before subjecting her to anything to see if this will work..if not then will do exrays and blood testing. This will cost around 4 hundred or so and well....at 12 yrs. not sure we should. The medication if this shows she does cost alot of money as well. Not sure what to do about this. Shes a rescue..after 5 yrs...Ive spent about 10,000 on her allergies, skin, eyes, ears and spaying her...with paleomytry something....as she wasnt spayed before 5 yrs and never had puppies apparently. Not a good thing. She was a mess when we rescued her...had we known before...well we wouldnt have even gone to see her...but they begged me so...I did...little did I know...but you know how it is after you get them home and you have a child....that dog was to stay and no matter how much it cost well..we couldnt return her to be put to sleep. So, not sure...if this means...its time for her....shes had a good 5 yrs...and she was happy. We are hoping this stuff works...im not expecting alot but who knows? Maybe it will....im praying. Janet, I went to an all inclusive on Dominican Republic..Putta Canna. (spelling) It was great. We loved it. I love all inclusives.,no carrying around money with all day. Drinks are free there as well and well....you can imagine how that rum is sooo good. Sometimes they arent as good as ala carte.,.but Its worth the money if you have a family going with you. Enjoy youl love it! Kurby, welcome!!! The only advice that I have for now..is start now. Dont wait till you have the band to start loosing. I waited and had the thought of...well ill be banded in another three months so I can eat anything I want..now....went a little crazy and gained 15bls. Boy that was a mistake!! It will take me a month or two longer to loose that 15 now!! So, start now...and begin the process now...and you will be ready and have allready set yourself up for life. Change the lifestyle now and be ready for the band to use as another tool not the magic bullet...to fix it all. Its work and even though you will loose...you wont loose that much and can even gain if you dont do what Janet has instructed in her post! lol. Good luck!

Whats a block without a nosey neighbor? lol Sometimes people say the darndest things when they want to say hello but arent sure how to break the ice. I have to say some of my "bestest" friends started out after stupid comments or just hating them for some reason or another....but after getting to know them really liked them but for what ever whether it was mine or their insecurities the beginnings were like..?? OMG I cant believe this woman said or did this or that....lol Im not saying this is always but....hey at least she spoke to you...here in NY....I dont think Ive ever spoken to my negihbor on the left...he is never home..the neighbor on the right ive spoken to only because they have two grandkids lving with them and their daughter, not the grandkids mom.,..and the son father of the kids occassionally? In a one bedroom apt!!! Well...our kitchen wall is their living room wall and till about 1, or 2 in the AM.......they are still up. Crying, screaming and banging on the walls. I had to knock on their door several times...but the last time I did....I was so mad as it woke Dassi from her bedroom. Apparently the whole building as well!! That time I told them ive had it and was going to call BCW.....as I am a mandated reporter. I felt really bad but you know what....they were gone the next day. I must have scared them and they went to live somewhere else? or they were illegal and were nurvous or they had those kids and werent supposed to...as I never saw the mother at all and father rarely there. Who knows...I just felt real bad after but not so much so that I wasnt a little glad...well alot that they werent there screaming and crying all day and night! So.....you will meet others people....and keep the chin up...at least they are talking to you! no cakes yet or casseroles yet to welcome you yet from anyone else? Do they do those things as we see on TV from surburbanites? lol I have a feeling though youd be the one giving them not them giving you as you seem so giving. Didnt I say that I thought youd be totally unpacked in two weeks? yup. its a good feeling if you have plenty of room for all your stuff and place to put everything...its when you have to start making space etc etc that you can get stuck with boxes around..unable to unpack. That is the worst! You seem to have it all under control. I agree...a shopping break is a must! As for every situation it is!! Cheri, It was probably a man who didnt know you at all who picked out the gifts. Its one of those things that "safe" gifts. Its sad that you have put so much work and effort in the last ten years...and the effort to give you a meaningful gift did not show effort or meaning on their part and was so unpersonable...but look on the bright side it did at least have your name on it...theres a plus!!! Did they at least spell it right?? Its the thought that counts...really isnt it?? We know you were happy after all who doesnt like to be recognized,...I am happy with an honorable mention sometimes better then the junk that I have to then feel guitly on giving away! well....its shabbat time again. I am having 3 of Dassis friends sleep over....as she hasnt been home in a while and shabbat doesnt end till 9 tomorrow night!! I cannnot be entertaining Dassi all day myself..Id really be miserable and so would she lol. I could do about an hour at a time....but more then that?? hell no. Monopoly can only last that long and sitting in the park watching the dogs as well.....so the more friends the merrier...its only space and food that they take...the rest is all good!!!! As long as everyone stays happy....otherwise...well we all know the otherwise....it could be a very long long day!!! Have a great weekend all!!! Jodi