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NSV... my hubby has been away this week..... I have NOT eaten JUNK.... did you hear me???? NO JUNK!!!! I've journaled my food, gotten off my fat ass and exercised.... I am liking the bike for transportation. Now the real test will be on Sunday, when I visit my Mom.... usually there are Goodies Galore that are hard to resist...plus I do this emotional eating behaviour too.... ARGH~~~ I will make a plan for sunday!~~~( I promis Janet)

Good Morning/Afternoon, #7's! Beautiful sunny, but chilly morning here in PNW. We're going to go see the BEE MOVIE in Coos Bay OR today. Looking forward to that. Last week DH & I went to see "Dan in Real Life" and LOVED it!! Good movie! Have tried several times to do that multiquote thing and can't figure it out. Can you tell me how to do that, Janet?? You are doing great! I am happy to have some baggy clothes, too, and found yesterday that I can already fit in to some of the things I packed in the RV for "later". Yesterday I wore a Panama Canal t-shirt I bought on a cruise last year and never wore! And I have one from Jamaica that fits now, too! Found a pair of pants, new ones, that I can wear, also. It's great! Guess what my sister made for breakfast???? Cinnamon rolls!! They were on the table staring at me when I came in from the RV!! DH had fixed me an eggbeaters omelet before I came in, so it's not like I didn't have anything to eat. DH gave me a tiny sliver of his that couldn't even qualify as a "BITE", but gave me a taste, anyway. She's fixing meat loaf for dinner, so I can live with that. But, anyone else finding that things that are soft texture like that, the band doesn't care!!?? My restriction seems to be greatly influenced by the texture of the food I'm eating. Congrats, again, on the NSV's 7's!

I am here, but I have been busy. We went shopping yesterday before our party and OMG talk about NSV's. We went to Ross to get some pants, because all of mine were starting to get to the point of putting my career on the line. I mean if they fall off when I am teaching that could put a damper on my career! So I filled up my arms with a bunch of size 12 pants and trotted off to the fitting room. By the time I finished trying them all on, I was in tears. Tears of joy that is. NONE of them fit. They were all too big. I am now in 10s. That was my original goal. I never dreamed that I could get smaller than a ten but with 24 pounds to go to get to my goal, who knows what is possible:biggrin:. So on the brag board I posted my pics along with the 10 ten things that I have learned in the last 6 months, but I want to add another one that I just thought of. Here are the original ten that I posted for those of you who don't stray from this thread often. Top ten things I have learned in 6 months 10. 650 calories takes 5 minutes to eat and 2.5 hours to work off. 9. There is NOT always room for Jello. 8. Sometimes it takes 28 years before you can finally run that mile. 7. Even if no one sees you eat it, the calories still exist. 6. Size 10 is not just for someone else. 5. A double chin is not necessary for survival. 4. I wasn't big boned...just fat. 3. The scale only gives you a number, and I am MUCH more than a number. 2. To chew or not to chew...depends on how much foam you want to spit up. And the number 1 thing that I have learned in the last 6 months... 1. To love who I have become, and to forgive myself for the past. So I think that #11 would have to be...a PB sandwich is not the same as PB'ing a sandwich!:thumbup: I wrote those for my non-bandster friends, but I don't think they would get #11! The party went really well and it was fun because it was on my 6 month bandiversary so I showed them my before and after and everyone was amazed. On another front, I have given up my scale. I have been obsessed with that thing for so long, so I made my BF hide it. I have accomplished so much in the last 6 months that I don't need to define myself by a number anymore. And if I am going to use a number to describe me it is going to be "10" for my clothing size. I will only weigh on my bandiversary dates (9th of each month) from here on out. I am running, holding my head high in cute clothes, and am no longer ashamed to look in a mirror...that is more important than what the scale says. I am not changing anything else. I am still going to workout like I have been, count calories like I have been, but I am not going to obsess about that damn scale. Well I have to get back to working. I still have a few things that I would like to get done before tomorrow. I will check in later. At that point I will go through and respond to everyone elses post. Man around here, you don't check in for a day or 2 and you could spend your whole afternoon responding! I love it!:eek:

GOOD MORNING GANG I AM BACK............................ 800 miles between Friday and Sunday :thumbup:... Good to see my Sister and my neices & nephews - I hadn't been up north for a couple of yrs (my sis was here last nov) they where shocked about my weight loss and I guess it's showing in a pic that I will post in a bit from my GD graducation - you will get to seen my 2 gk & son I went to the gym friday before I left then gs and i went to the mall and he gave me a great NSV - when we use to go to the mall he would be 10 steps a head of me - well on friday he said LaLa why are you running (walking so fast really) as I was a head of him - I said I am just walking.... Then we went to target and I didn't look for a parking space close to the store - took the first one I saw - he said - you really have changed:biggrin: At my sisters on Saturday morning I did one mile with my BIL - an ok speed then I did 2 more miles at a very good speed by myself. Hope all that countered the 2 1/2 cookie and wine I had :thumbup: Yes you guys were quite - I remember looking at page 700 when i posted on Friday - so that I would know what page I had to go back to - well 701 -- I wanted to sleep in but dogs had me up at 7 - which is better than 5 - well woke me up at 5 put took Angel potty and went back to bed. I think I need to go do my 3 miles this morning since I am off and then I meet my training partner at 5 - my trainer is gone this week so it's just us girls :thumbup: I am going to go see if I can post the pic - it's been a while since I have done it... CBL

Marcy - Great NSV :clap2::clap2::clap2: Food on your plate - but it into a box ASAP so you won't be tempted to continue to pick - I am the same way too. It's mind over matter you can do it... I know you can.... Make good food choices and sweet spot being hit - you will do it....

Karla -FYI CAKE can act like bread sometimes - and as tight as you are it may - Have you called for an appoint to get some taken out... It's NOT SUPPOSE TO HURT TO EAT... Have you tried drinking something hot before you try to eat and yes protein bars are just like candy bars - just as many calories as a candy bar - only diff is that they have protein.. Karri turned me on to the pure protein bars - They are very good especially when you keep them in the fridge.. There is nothing to be embarrassed about 213 - heck we all were there at one time... You are 40 lbs lighter than 2 months ago and that's what matters - You are on your way girl.. Congrats on the NSV by not eating the ice cream... Congrats on your gym time - I guess doing weights I could maybe do a little longer at the gym - but really and hour and a half is my max time there... Did legs tonite - going in the morning again for another 2.5 miles and then tomorrow nite for arms (make up from monday we didn't do our traing as the gym closed early) Congrats on Member of the Month !!!! That's Great :crying: Ya I know you like a little competition :0) Ya you will win in the losing more - cuz I really don't think I want to get any lower than 135 - and I was able to maintain 138 until after easter - since then - it's been 139 - 140 - 141 I want 138 !!! I don't want 143... I am having flounder tonite - never had it before but it looks good - need to go ck out tv food network to see how I am suppose to cook it.. Phyl - Steph - Kari - Denise - Candice - are you all in on our 5 lbs in 2 weeks...

Glad the pictures are arriving. Memories of a great trip. LauraK - good luck tomorrow. Let us know. Linda - NSV - yippee great health report -- what a difference. Going out to dinner with friends. Protein and vegs. My mantra.

Apples, Congratulations on your 1 year band anniversary - I missed it last week, so just wanted to say congratulations and thanks for sharing with us newer bandsters and inspiring us. So sorry to hear of your friend's passing Apples and Janet, I will say a prayer for her family. Meredith, I loved your story about your dad -- what a great dad you have -- and now you only have 3 days left till your band day!! You're going to do so great. Julie, hope you can relax now and get some rest. My dept. was celebrating its 10 year anniversary at work - and we had a little party -- cake and punch. Since I work at night and weekends, I rarely see anyone except my immediate co-workers. Several people from different departments told me how great I look and one girl even told me I look younger! I was worried before that I'd look older after I lost weight, but so far so good. I talked to two different people who didn't even recognize me at first -- then all of a sudden they said, "oh, Linda, it's YOU!" That was fun too and the best NSV I've had to date. I brought home the piece of cake they had put on my desk and gave it to my sweets loving DH. Better in he than in me! Have a great day tomorrow everyone. It's supposed to be 105 here in central Iowa -- along with 98% humidity! Linda

Hey Gang - Back from the Gym - Arms tonite - Went to Jury Duty got there only to be told they pick the jury last week we were free to go home.. :purplebananna: Why don't they have a place to post that on their website... Blklab - Maybe you had Dates from My Dad's Date ranches :0) - That's what my Dad did for a living - and I now own some date ranches (inherited them we don't farm - sold sold some trees and lease them out now) I have always wanted to go to the Garlic Fest there isn't in July sometime - I love garlic !!'' I bought some cherries yesterday - when I was p.g. I ate like a pound in one sitting - Can't wait for watermelons - I have a pretty good one from Mexico - but nothing beats a good old USA Water melon... I love summer fruits !! CONGRATULATIONS LONG !!!!:Banane01: WTG 123 LBS GONE !!! :Banane33: YOU ROCK GIRL :success1: I knew you flew for free - I would be scared to risk standby -:eek: I would be afraid that I would miss the ship.. I had no problem on the ship eating and didn't in Mexico either - ate the inside of a taco while in port cuz after a bite or 2 of the tortilla - I knew I was going to have a problem of being too full - and new I needed the protein so just ate the meat - My prob was like when we got back from ziplining - the windjammer was closed and the other place had sandwiches & pizzaz - neither good bander food - I did eat the eggsalad out of the sandwich one day cuz I was hungry.. Apples - CONGRATS ON YOUR NSV !!! I wish I was as lucky - nothing but a scaple is going to help my boobs - and I lift 30 to 40 to 50 lbs depending on the machine and can leg press 180 200 lbs and now can do lungs and touch my knee to the ground - in fact my butt is killing me today - we worked leggs on saturday.. But for me exercise hasn't done a darn thing for the girls - the arms or the legs... Still have the bag and sag going on - but look pretty damn good dressed - so am ok with it.. Laura - stick with mushies for a while - make sure you chew and eat slowly - give it a few days - but it you can't eat hard protien go in an have a little taken out - heck just having .01 taken out can make all the diff.. PJ - it's our bands are very fickle - some days I can eat a horse and other days 5 bite and can be full - Stress - hydration - I don't really know - just like Apple gets tight on a plan - and I don't nor did Long - it's were. You just have to make sure you are taking tiny bites and chewing and eating slowly - alot of time I have problem cuz I have eatn too fast and not chewed - or 1 bite to many I would be pissed too.... So Rant away ~~~ Call and bug - cry - beg = bribe :0) just kidding on that one... Laura - I haven't tried the quinoa cuz I don't want to spend $8 and not like it - I know that one of my Lucky #7 tried it - she liked it - Apples eat wild rice or have you tried brown rice or couscous I really couldn't get into Survior this year and I don't watch the bachelorette or bachelor - think it's totally stupid to put yourself out there like that - on national t.v. come on those are beautiful women and they have to go on a tv show to find "love" ya right - more like they want their 15 mintues of fame...- I can't wait for Idol tomorrow... Heck between here and fb - I am usually behind in my tv watching - I have like 4 Lost shows I haven't watched yet.. Well need to go cook I am hungry had - salad for lunch and 3/4 fiber1 bar before gym...

Good Morning Gang Back from the gym - I had an AH HA moment - I was taking the advice that I give all of you - I pumped up my exercise. I did 30 minutes on the stair machine and was sweating like a pig by the time I got off - it said 2 miles and 228 calories 97 flights of stairs - did level 6 on something then I went and got on the treadmill and did another 2.53 miles burned another 220 calories - incline 6 to 8 and speed 3.5 to 3.7 I'm pooped - but feel good at the same time.. Ya he's right in away - I have always said they banded our tummies not our brains !!!! I am going to have to ck out the brain surgery - just think if they can do that and the band sleeve or what ever - we would have it made in the shade... Linda great nsv on the drivers license pic !!!! Ok it's windy and I need to go clean my room do some wash get dressed - I need new tennis shoes... So CBL -

Eva - love, love the pictures. Wish I could have shared lunch with you at that lovely place. Wow WARNING - my Visa credit card was (also) compromised in Las Vegas (I bet). Apples mentioned she had problems upon returning from Vegas. Card was just denied at the groomers. Charges in Canada, and India, as well as, the US. Watch you bills, ladies. For those who used credit cards in Vegas. A little good news to share, yesterday and today ppl have mentioned that I'm sure losing weight. NO ONE has noticed anything before this. NSV yippee LauraK - drama may reach fever pitch beginning Sunday. We are moving 42 yr. old son from Nevada back to K.C. to start his life over. I'll be finding an apartment for him and his dog next week and getting him settled. Then pack and leave for Guam on the 1st. Running away from it all.

Becky - Congrats on your inches - That's a GREAT NSV to be proud of!!!! You can click on my ticker and it will show the graft and weight loss history it's easier to read - cllick on the show all.. Ya I get you on looking at yourself at home and thinking oh I look pretty good then going somewhere else and seeing yourself and say Omg I'm look awful - it's just the surrondings - maybe you were thinking about a size that you can't get yet - or looking at something that wouldn't fit yet - and that's the reason. Heck I went to the beauty shop this morning - and my makeup looked awful - at home it looked good but at the shop I saw more wrinkles sags and bags - Diff lighting I guess - who know's - but it depressed me !!! Mia NEVER ARE YOUR ANNOYING !!!! DON'T EVER THINK THAT !!!! Ok here's the thing about exercise (these numbers aren't exact this is just an example) - if you weight 250 lbs and walk 2 miles speed 3.0 to 3.5 you will burn 300 calories - but at a weight of 190 doing the exact same thing you will only burn 275 - then at 180 you burn 250 - so on and so forth - as you lose weight you gotta increase your speed and intesnity to burn the same amount of calories as you did in the beginning... In the beginning I walked on the tread mile for like 2 miles - no incline speed 2.7 - 3.5 and I burned 300 calories - but as I lost weight I increased my speed and had to walk longer to burn that 300 calories . Now if I walked at that speed 3.5 for 3 miles I bet I would only burn about 240 calories. So now I have increased my speed to 4.0 for flat and do inclines from 4 to 15 at diff intervals and burn now anywhere from 300 to 350 per work out.. I am working differently no more intensity and for a longer time - but the upside of that is I feel good after my work out not beat like I did in the beginning - I enjoy goint to the gym - putting my Ipod on - and grooving to my tunes - you know 70 & 80 disco stuff On the net issue - i never did that - I just ate 800 - 1200 calories and exercised I didn't subract the calories burned from my daily calorie budget I guess that's why I lost like I did. I ate 800 to 1200 calories plus the exercise - so doing it your way I had 500 to 700 calories a day I don't like that way of thinking - I would have felt very deprived and though I could eat more - NO NO NO don't do that net thing IMHO - eat 850 to 1200 PLUS your exercise I guess my exercise is what boosted my weight loss and why I didn't hit a platues - as those calories burned were a defecit and not a counter to the things that I ate.. Ok just say it takes 2000 calories just for you to breath and maintain your current weight - to lose a pound a week you have to cut that number by 500 calories a day - so that gives you 1500 to eat - but if you want to lose it a little faster cut another 300 calories from your food and exercise 5 days a week buring 280 each session 3x7=2100 calories + 280x5=1400 calories = 3500 calories = pound 2 lbs a week... I just ck'd one of those sites and it says that I should eat 2400 calories a day to maintain my weight - That's BS imho - I would gain at that many calories - as it is I am eating 1400 to 1600 a day and exercising 4 times a week (well most weeks sometimes just 3 :wink2:) As for breakfast - I too am at work early 7:15 - I don't eat at home I eat at work - I don't eat eggs during the week usually- Sometime I will take hard boiled eggs or egg salad (made with just a little lite mayo) - I will have a sandwich made on lite bread (90 calories 2 slices) with shaved ham 5 slices 50 calories - 2% cheese 50 Calores - mustard 190 calories - that one reason I eat yogurt & fruit or 1/4 cup granola 100 to 150 c) and weight control oatmeal (160 c) cuz those things are easy to eat at my desk.. I used eggbeaters at home on the weekend 1/2 cup 60 calories and add a little cheese bell peppers & Onions - yummy - I have made it at home before I left for work and taken it with me to eat at work. I will also have a fiberone bar 150 cal for breakfast some days - those are the days that I am straving by lunch Stay focus on just today - that's all you can do and you are doing very well on focusing on eating healthy too - that's what you are suppose to be doing I just think you gotta bring your calories down a little - not a lot but just a little and not every days - every other day or every 2 days.. Just play with it until you find what works for you !!! Joann - I am going to nominate you for the Band Poster Woman award - you got it 100% - Find out what works for you within the guidlnes that you will be able to adapt to a total lifestyle change... ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Hey Gang - Well I know I am late today - but got up around 6:30 had my coffee - gym by 7:30 - home by 8:30 in the shower by 9 had hair appointment at 10 (covering the gray ;0)- then went grocery shopping - OMW that took 2 hrs.. It takes alot of time picking up boxes reading calories - wanting junk looking at the calories and saying oh no and then putting it back.. Trying to figure out what you are going to eat for the week - then bagging your own groceries (Winco is my new store right around the corner from my house - it's like a food 4 less or super saver - you gotta bag your own stuff) Pluse it's like my 3rd time there so don't know were everything is but almost.. Came home cleaned out the freeze - had stuff in there that was over 8 months old - then cleaned out the pantry - had crap in there from when I had surgery 14 months ago... Some of the stuff expired late 07 and early 08 I gotta great NSV to report - I think I might have some mice in my attic (crawl space really we don't have true attic's here in the desert - just enough room to stand up in the center of the house but that's it) Well I got some sticky traps at the store and GS just had showered and didn't want to go up there so I said what the heck I can do it - so I got the ladder - which really isn't tall enought - but i grapped the rafters and walked up the wall - got my feet up in the space and then pulled myself up there :eek: Set the traps - then wondered how I was going to get down - cuz like i said the ladder is really too short - so I let myself down - stepping on top of the door and then to the ladder. This is not something I would have even attempted a year ago :tt2: Ok - started this and hour ago - I need to drink and kick it in front of the tv for a while and figure out what I am going to make for dinner - I put all the meat in the freeze :eek: So I will ck back in a bit... Hope everyone is having a great Saturday...

:lol:Well Girls, I tell you I just am sitting here cracking up:lol:! Congradulations! 1000 pages:thumbup:! Just shows ya where there is a will there could be a lot of junk! LOL I hope in another 1000 I know you all as well as you know each other! Way to make my morning! Back to the real stuff, i am going to try to walk twice again today. I walked a total of 70 minutes yesterday, and I got a diploma from about.com for having completed my 10 week walking program! I feel kinda proud....also nsv I started out in xxl sweats and now am in xl stretch pants, the next pair will be large, and that will be pretty soon, because the ones I wear are loosening up after two wears! YEAH:thumbup:! It is looking a little overcast here so we might just get that rain forecasted for the weekend. That is all for now... some pics of my walk yesterday:

Jill,congratulations on your year bandanniversary and also on your losses -- both pounds and sizes -- it doesn't matter how much someone loses -- what matters is that you continue on your path to a new healthier you and it sounds like you have been and will continue to be very successful. I'm so happy that you had such wonderful NSV and especially at the wedding - wow! I bet you were glowing! That should help you stay inspired for your next year with the band! So happy for you!! Laura, so happy you had a great time with your sister and now you're mom and dad coming - that's nice too -- I'm jealous -- I still have 4-1/2 weeks until I get to see my family -- can't wait! Meredith, can't imagine that you have that much drainage but maybe it's cause they only used one incision (right? you had the new one incision band, I think). So none of us would have any idea because all of us had the old, 5 incision bands. I'm sure you'll be fine if you continue to follow doctor's orders and keep a close eye on it. Ifyourband, I'm so sorry you had such a bad time with your folks and that your mom got hurt. Hope she's doing better and everything has calmed down. Proud of you for recognizing that you needed to write rather than eat -- it's hard to get through the first few eating triggers, but sounds like you did a good job. Hope everyone has a great weekend. Linda

Good Evening everyone! Thanks so much to all of you who were in Florida for sharing-- like some of the others have mentioned, I too feel like I was there -- and yes, I believe I would have felt the same --I alreay know you all anyway. I still do want to meet in person soon though -- so we'll have to work out the details of our next trip. I found out today I didn't accrue any vacation for either Dec. or Jan. as I missed more than 15 days each of those months - so I BARELy have enough vacation time to take 5 days off in July for my neice's wedding. I didn't realize I wasn't accruing vacation those two months so that really hurts. I just have to hope I don't have to take any time off between now and then (we don't have sick leave so I have to use vacation/personal time for that). So it makes it tough. Judy, excellent synopsis -- great sense of humor -- you and I would get along great -- so glad you were able to make it. Apples, sounds like you were wonderful as always with the hostessing duties. Lori, hope you didn't think I was being critical of you on your venting post -- I was just saying that "of course you were feeling depressed cause everything was not in your control" I didn't mean to imply that you were a controlling person -- I hope you didn't take it that way. I just meant it would be tough for anyone to go though that many changes and undecided plans all at once. WTG on the Valentine's Day presents -- your DH sounds just great. We don't do presents either really -- we tend to go out and buy what we want/need at that time -- sometimes we wrap up stuff we buy just to put it under the tree for "show" so the kids dont' feel sorry for us -- but honestly, like most of you, I'd rather save the money for a nice vacation. My DH and I bought each other fifty cent cards at the dollar store and wrote nice things in them -- he told me how "beautiful I have always been to him and how proud he is of me for getting healthy." That meant more than a present anyway. We did go out to dinner Sat. nigiht -- just our usual place up the street -- but it was nice -- I put on a top he particularly liked when I bought it -- he commented on it at the time. But no heart teddy for me -- LOL. Apples I LOVE it!! WTG girl - I'm sure you had a great time. Julie, so glad you went and also glad you found some nice things to buy and yes, congrats on the seat belt extension and tray table - it was a thrill for me last year when I got to put the tray table down all the way -- I do believe that was one of the better NSV to date. Also glad you didn't have any problems with your flights. Eva, so glad you were there for Janet and she there for you so you weren't alone in your long travel day. Hope you're enjoying Ft. Myers. I checked the weather there today and saw it was pretty chilly -- 60 = sorry you're having such crappy weather. I cooked a big valentine dinner for kids and DH and the dog's b-day -- including a cake -- also went to see Lovely Bones this weekend and shopped for DGD's new comforter/sheet set for her bedroom here at my house.So although busy, a good weekend. Got all my exercise in. Laura, hope Nelson is better -- I could tell before what a great kid he is -- plus you are such a great Mom -- so I KNEW he was a great kid. Hugs on the snow in Indiana! We just are having small flurries and wind and very cold here. Jessica, so glad you went - I'm sure this will help you in your journey -- so glad you found our group on the LBT -- I know you'll be a smashign success in both your weight loss journey, nursing and being a Mom!! Your pic is great - you look so diifferent from your first picture. Charlene, I haven't gotten much of the Beck Diet book read -- really love what it says in the little I've had time to read -- but I do think it will be very helpful. Phyll, I saw the pictures of your new Grandpuppy -- she is adorable -- I think you should have snuck her on the plane with you -- why not get a little one to keep you adn DH company? I think you should go and get one this week. You won't regret it. My little sweetie just cheers me up every day. NY, hope all is well with you and you get that surgery done soon. Let us know when you get a date. To the newbie having surgery on 2-20 or thereabouts, congrats and you will be fine on the 7 day liquid diet -- I had to do 2 weeks before surgery and it was no problem -- by the time I started I was really ready to tackle my obesity and I was sick of food at that point. You'll do just fine, trust me. LauraK hope everything is okay -- how's your dog getting along. Sorry I can't remember the name. Cheri, glad you had a great time with your grandkids -- they really brighten our lives -- wish I could have a few more. Love my little GD so much. Meredith, congratulations on the house and the move -- you'll love it!!! Well, I must close -- not intentional if I left someone out - I'm rushing cause I just got home from work. LBT was down part of the day and I couldn't read anything until tonight. Glad it is fixed now -- loved seeing the pictures and hearing about the weekend. Love and hugs to all. Linda

What card? I never got a card. I will have to call the dr. office on Monday and see about one. I was supposed to get a card to show for eating out too. I forgot all about getting it. I had to live with my parents during the week when I moved to the country and still worked in Houston. HATED IT!!!! My mother is a saint, but even earthly saints have a few flaws. My dad, well, he was an alcoholic, nuff said. And of course, I was pregnant with #3 so I was no sweet thing either. MY DS has been here a month today.......I probably have seen him six times. I think he is moving completely out before the 1st. Now, my oldest DD told me she rented an apartment and is moving out of her home ( it is for sale). I am glad to hear that news. She won't be moving in after DS moves out. Whew! Linda, I know what you mean about feeling guilty when your kids get overweight. All of mine are overweight. I know I did not teach them the proper way to eat and put them on the pathway to obesity. They are adults now, and they know the right way. It is their choice. My oldest had lap band and lost 120 and gained it back. He has now lost 50 on Quick Weight Loss. The DS living with us eats a lot, but works out a lot. He like food too. My DD that just had the baby has a major weight problem, but she wants to start eating right. Her DH cooks and is skinny. She does have support. Janet, so sorry for DS problems. They still want to talk to mama. My DS that was in the service would call me from Germany when him and his wife were fighting. Sometimes she would call. What was I to do?......I was thousands of miles away. I would just listen. Then I would get on my soap box. Then they probably questioned why they called in the first place. lol. Heck, if they are going to call and whine.........I'm gonna preach!!!! That'll cure em!!! Lori, I am glad today looks better. I hope you enjoy your party tonight. Cheri, I haven't flown alone in many, many years. I too, am very anxious about my flight, but I have been telling myself this is something I have to do. We will have this victory......call it a NSV! Eva, You ready for a roommate? I will be there soon!!! Julie......Are you feeling better??

Linda and Laura, great pics, both of you. You ladies are looking good, and so are kids and family, cakes and aprons. So sorry about Merry. Hope surgery goes well and prognosis is good. My daughter's guinea pig died. Her just-turned-3 year old was holding him inside his little sleeping bag. She was cooking and when she came to check and put him back in his cage, he was dead on the floor inside the bag with blood coming out his mouth. She has no idea what happened but she felt so guilty for not supervising (though Josh had handled the pig many times before safely and seemed to have no clue what had happened) that a few days later she adopted what appears to mostly be a male poodle but they think is also a Bijon Frisee(sp). She wanted that mix because they're not supposed to shed and she and Joshua have asthma and are allergic to dog hair or the saliva on the hair or whatever. The dog had had surgery for a salivary gland cyst. He was a stray but the doc thinks he's about 3. David named him Frankie. Great dog so far. Doesn't yip or bark, comes when called, stays right by whomever. Followed the boys out the door last night and jumped into my car right after them without an invitation. Stood on David's lap to see out the window then came to the front and stood on my husband's lap and arm to see out but didn't bother me since I was driving. Seems very smart. But he's shedding and my daughter's afraid because Josh's asthma is kicking in but it started before they got the dog and she's hoping its weather related. Dog days of August are notorious for triggering asthma in this part of the country. Hope the dog fares better than the guinea pig. Fortunately, David, who got the pig as a Christmas present, was at my house staying the night. We held the funeral the next day. David wanted a cross to mark the spot. He doesn't know that somehow his brother was responsible. He keeps asking questions about what happened and we keep saying we don't know. Mom just found him dead. He's not too good at expressing emotion because of his autism, but he fed the pig everyday and spent time petting him and holding him on his lap. His name was Possum Pete. RIP Possum Pete. A couple of days ago I saw a fawn get hit by a car and thrown across the street. When I got close enough to see what had been hit, the fawn moved and tried to get up. I flagged down a car on a side street and had them call the police. The fawn was trying to get back to the other side of the road into the forest preserve. I stood there crying until an officer came. The officer kind of walked and shoved the fawn back into the forest preserve and helped cars go around it and then shot it once it was back "home". I wish he'd done it right away. It was very hard to watch it struggle. By the way, some of the stories of things people have said to you in stores about being fat have been horrific. I do comfort myself knowing that what goes around, comes around. It's a natural law that God has somehow worked into his plans for people's lives. I am a firm believer in natural consequences. People either learn from them or they don't. But the shame is always on them. And we are no longer letting other's thoughts and opinions and assinine behavior drive us into the food. NSV. Had a great day at the Indiana State Dunes for my granddaughter's birthday yesterday. The humidity cleared out of the air and the sky was very clear. We could just see the Chicago skyline across the lake. Very tiny. The sun got to be intense, but we could cool off in the water. Laura, glad your mom and dad are doing better. I hope nothing has happened to your missing neice(?). Going off to see someone she's never met and not communicating back would have me worried. Hope she gets in touch soon and is OK. Who's the tall guy in the pics? or was he the uncle? Just looked different standing up. And the two young ladies? Beautiful day today, too, but too hot to be outside without a pool or a lake to dive into. I've got Dr.s apptmts and tests sceduled just about every free moment next week (mammogram, bone density, vein Dr., endocrinologist). Finishing up IM training with 2 students Monday, testing incoming students on Tuesday, in meetings Weds, Thurs., and Fri., and start teaching the following Weds., the 28th. Where'd my summer go? Oh yeah, I didn't have one. LOL. Sang today both morning church services for my exercise. If it cools down this evening I'll try to walk. Walked an hour Thurs, Fri, and Sat. early morning before the bad heat. Cheri

Hello Girls! All I can say is......YAY!!!!:thumbup::thumbdown::crying::cursing::drool: I did it! I lost 1.1 yesterday to take me up to 10lbs for the whole month. That's my best lost ever, even better than when the band was first put in I think. I am buzzing!! I am still struggling with the exercise this week again (work always seems to get in the way of having fun!) but I am going to stick religiously to 1200 cals and see how far that gets me. I would like to zigzag, but am reading into it, as I am a routine person, and I need to know how much I am having on what day. A friend sent me this link if you are interested too Calorie Calculator - Daily Caloric Needs I am so pleased. I don't feel deprived and better than that - I just took off my work trouserx (don't panic - I'm at home now!) without undoing the fly or buttons!! NSV city!! The discussion here is so useful. You take so much for granted, but its only those who have tried and had success who really know ie Our Janet! Mx

Apples – Glad your troubles are almost over. Good for you! Laura – No need to apologize for spending time with your family and work. Sounds to me like you are thinking about full time??? Janet – Your quiet Thanksgiving Day sounds like heaven to me. There are times I wonder how it would be to have a holiday to myself. I don’t know if I would like it or not but I sure wouldn’t mind trying it out. Julie – I hope your trigger point helps the pain. Let us know how it goes with DSIL. TX – Awesome NSV!! That is the best. Linda – I agree with everyone else. Take care of yourself and your family. Make your visits with your grandmother when they work for you and her. The others aren’t important unless you let them be. Cheri and others who posted about giving up some computer time. I too have cut way back on computer time. It is so easy to get involved in things and the time goes by so quickly. Unfortunately, there is a price to pay for that involvement such as our family time or work. Don’t get me wrong, I still have my computer time and enjoy it but I have trimmed it back. I have totally given up FB games. I still like to read here and keep up with news reports.

Deb ~ I am sending healing thoughts to your sweet Tucker. :thumbup: Dee ~ Congrats on those NSVs, girlie! You are so inspirational to me. :biggrin: Lap ~ I am definitely thinking of those states in the path of Gustav; we already have some evacuees here in Georgia. And now we have to worry about Hanna...:thumbdown: Michelle ~ I know all have missed you around here, I hope you hang in there and find your happy medium. :frown: Happy long weekend to those of us fortunate enough to be off tomorrow. I never associated fireworks with Labor Day but apparently some of my neighbors do...good thing I plan to be up for awhile. :wink2:

Denver - I guess I'll have to be ok with Sarah being in Washington...better there than here! Haha! You have much more talent than I could ever muster! Newbies - congrats on getting information, getting in touch, getting a date! I can say the only thing I regret is that I waited so long to get it done! It took me SIX YEARS to make the decision! To note: when you post a New Reply (not a quick reply - the New Reply button is on the left after all the posts) then right under your message that you type you can opt for daily emails...this is what I do so I'm not logging on all day (and, besides, internet is SLOOOWWW up here in the north). It's an easy way to keep up with everyone and to see that people are keeping up with you. Winter is coming, winter is coming! NSV for me...BIG one. YEARS ago my DH got me a cool leather jacket. It's one of those "fitted" ones with one button. Well, I never could wear it comfortably with it buttoned (boobs too big, too tight, etc.) But I decided to throw it on yesterday and, WHAM, it fits perfect! Actually, there's plenty of room to spare so maybe it's time for a new one?!?! :-)

Welcome Sidann! Congrats on your upcoming surgery! Do you live here in Colorado? Join us at Red Robins each month for some extra support, if you do. You'll be thrilled with Dr. K and his staff! This surgery has been the best thing for me! Each new day brings me a new NSV! I love it!:rolleyes2: dee~

PJ: I've had grilled steak and pork chops, but they were not too dry. Grilled chicken is often too dry---when I added a bit of salsa, it was ok. Before the salsa (the day before), the grilled chicken got stuck after a few tiny bites. You will probably be ok with grilled meats, as long as you take tiny bites and chew carefully (and it is not too dry). Long: congrats on the NSV! I love it when clothes get to big, don't you? Speaking of stuck, I got stuck with some shrimp scampi that I made. After a few small bites, I felt this pressure in my chest and it was not gonna happen anymore! So, I have leftovers for today. We'll see if it goes down; if not, I'll just toss it. Getting used to just throwing it away is hard for me, but I am learning. Nancy

Dynamo~ I am happy for Todd that he is out of the hospital, but WOW, why wait until he has another episode? There has to be something they can do??? Darn it! I am sooo watching AI too! I cried, I laughed, and I lost A LOT of IQ points! I love the crazy sparkly girl...she is freakin out though!! I worked out tonight NSV 1330 mile on the elpitical...shooting for 12!! Did 1.5 on the bike and then finished my 3 miles on the treadmill (boring). Did the free weights and that was that...another workout done! I do seem hungrier after working out. I have an appointment for a fill on the 31st.

How frightening! Isn't the husband a suspect in the Cooper case too? Hey, I see your 'pack won yesterday!! I'm a Tarheel fan (don't throw anything) now, but was a 'pack fan when I was a kid. Have had family at both schools. At least we're not Dookies, right? Glad to hear he's home! Labs will eats ANYTHING handfed, I'm convinced, just to please their people. Such a good boy!! Bwhahahahahahaha!!! Love it! I love the new glasses!! So very cute!! Congrats on your NSVs! Nothing makes me happier that a good deal~ you hit the motherload!! Congrats on your NSVs! It's the little things that make it all worthwhile! I would be all over that!! That is a dream of mine! Somebody on this thread alreay does that, but they haven't posted in awhile. Help me remember who it is folks! Back to my scraping and then mowing the yard. More later.