Whoa... the sands are trickling through the glass so fast all of a sudden! My shopping is nearly done, although I still need to get a couple of things.

I was totally ~frosted~ this week after my geriatric cat peed on about 12 out of 30 voile gift bags I'd decorated and filled with nice candies! The bags were on my work table, covered with a tea towel. I'd invested so much time and thought in them (foolish right there), that it just killed me to throw them away. I was making the gift bags for DH's employees and co-workers. I drove back to the store and discovered they are all out of the little bags - rats!

Usually, when Bumble makes a "mistake", I can figure out why. For one thing, she has litter box confusion. A cardboard box or cubby-type place gives her a sense she's "in the box"! She's even been known to tip over a wastebasket, stick her head in it, then pee on the floor. So, I'm fanatic about keeping drawers and cupboards closed, and open boxes covered. Or if she's scared, she'll pee in place. But, there's no reason for her to be stressed now, and the gifts were not in a cubby or box. So, I don't know. It's worrrisome, as I cannot even contemplate putting her down - yet, how can I live with such a problem? I've considered crating her in the kitty condo, but that doesn't seem like a very nice life for an old kitty girl.

On the animal front, I've another little problem and maybe some of you can recommend a solution. In the last 3 days, 2 birds have flown straight into my kitchen window. One died, one survived. I think the angle of the sun this time of year turns the window into a mirror. I don't want to obscure the view from the kitchen by covering the window outside, but I don't want any more birds to get hurt, either. Any ideas?

Donna, I don't blame you a bit for being concerned with DH's new business venture. Is it a done deal? Does DH realize the extra burdens this places on you? In all fairness, I think you should let him know that his absence and the additional workload would be a burden for you.

Peg, I so envy you having all these lovely events with your kids and gkids! As the years go by, I expect it will settle into a pattern, but this first year is a year of discovery! That's a shame that the OFH wasn't more welcoming. I guess you'll have to ask around among your neighbors to see if that indifference is typical, or if you just caught the staff on a bad day. If they cannot even be civil during the sales period, it makes you wonder how responsive they are to residents in general. Hopefully, it was not the normal thing...

__________________
~~~Teelbee
Back to GOAL!!!
start weight: 176/goal range: 137-134/now: 138
Reached goal in Aug. 2003 - 4rd year of maintenance.

Hi Gang!

Terry: Thanks for seeing that little rub with the one staff member representing the whole staff (in the OFH: Old Far*** Home). That was my fear too. DH kept saying, "She's only one person." But, she does represent the place. Actually, things are a little better today. Time and the sun do work wonders. It just means regrouping. This time, though, I am NOT going to look at apartments and condos without DH. We'll be here together throughout Feb. and part of March. He's going with me.

Wow. Sorry to hear about your older kitty. Deuts used to do things like that, but it was because he was mad at me for not paying enough attention to him. Of course, he wanted me to sit and pet him on my lap all day! My "old" cat (Persephone was before Deuts. She was a Calico) used to pee on anything that sounded like the litter. Could that have been the issue with those bags? Maybe she's getting a little blind?

I've heard about cures for birds flying into windows, but I don't remember right at the minute what it was. Sorry.

Alida: Yeah, I don't think about it very much either (older husbands and the future). I would think about it less if we didn't move around so much. I want to be settled with a community of friends around me.

I'll be waiting to see if you let your assistant help you out with the carrying. He/she is wise to know you that well. Ha!

Donna: My dh takes "Indocin" for gout. One or two doses clears it right up. He also takes high bood pressure medicine. Lots of it. Ask his Dr. to prescribe it. It is really good.

Hope you get the furniture you want.

Barb: Thanks for the good wishes.

Have a good day all the rest of you. It's nearly noon, and I am going to do some serious knitting (a scarf for dd3) and reading. I might go rent a movie for tonight. We'll see.

Peace, Peg

__________________
"Live the questions and some day you will live along into the answers."
Rainer Marie Rilke

Atkins since 2003
5'8" 206.4/197/175
65 years young

Good morning! It's early. For some ungodly reason, I woke up at 2AM and could not go back to sleep. At least it's Saturday. If I need to take a nap, I can!

Terry, is it possible your old cat needs more pans around the house? Maybe he doesn't like the litter you use? Doesn't like using a pan that is not pristine? No wonder you were ~frosted~!! I'd really be upset! How old is Bumble? Wish I had the magic answer. I did order some stuff over the internet that's supposed to get rid of the odor, and it does work . . . "Zero Odor bonds irreversibly with odor molecules, it neutralizes odors at their common source. That's why Zero Odor is uniquely effective on fabrics, in the air, and on hard or soft surfaces." www.ZeroOdorStore.com

As for the birds flying into the windows . . . use those hawk silhouettes, usually sold in nature stores or bird stores. They cling to the inside of the windows. I googled "hawk silhouettes" and came up with this: http://www.birdsource.org/birdcast/windows.html

I have solar film on my windows (duh!) and that does make the glass a little more reflective on the outside. I don't notice ~more~ birds flying into the glass because of the film, but what does happen, during mating season, is that robins and cardinals will hover by the glass and peck at it because they think they see another bird there!

Donna, did your DH discuss this venture with you before deciding to go with it? It does sound like it's a done deal. Hope you got the store for a good price, seeing as how there's no stock. At least you have the contacts and resources to get it up and going. I am wondering what the guy who sold the place is going to do with all that stuff. Sell it out of the back of his truck? Return it to vendors for cash? Stockpile it in his basement?

Businesses can be sold so many ways. I remember when Bob bought a printing company, the cash did come with it. When we sell ours, there will be no cash left to "sell" with it . . . but no debts, either!

Whoa. I'd be really PO'd at your husband's doctor! At any time did he tell you that the medicine was the cause of the gout? Peg's suggestion of "indocin" sounds good. Perhaps you should ask the dr. about that. Although now that he is on new BP meds, will that clear the gout up?

Your boss tells you he can't afford a new car and then shows up with that Trailblazer? With OnStar? You bet I'd revisit the raise question!

As for the gum, that may be one of your problems! Some people are very sensitive to sugar alcohols. Some people count half . . . others all. It's a YMMV thing. Although, if you have had the gum all along, even when you were losing, perhaps it's not the culprit. Can you try a few days without it?

Hoping you find all that new furniture you want! Ooohhh . . . sounds so exciting!

Peg, did you get that knitting done? And all that talk of the prayer shawl you were knitting . . . at Mark's ordination, one pastor had a knitted stole. Is that what you were talking about?

As for the OFH, Terry probably hit it. That one gal was probably having a bad day!

And, yes, I let my assistant carry ALL the scaffolding! Let's see, that was eight trips (one way) up and down about 20 steep steps. Then there was all the other usual stuff. Hey. I figure I'm paying him $15/hour, so he can do it. Plus he's young.

Bob had two appointments set up yesterday for the business. One guy had to re-schedule. The one appointment he did have went well. They guy said he was interested. Wanted to take the financials home. Bob did tell him he had another person interested. Maybe we'll have a bidding war?

Today's a baking/cooking day. We are supposed to get a bunch of snow. Good day to stay inside, crank up Mannheim Steamroller and dirty up the kitchen! The Chiefs play today. Do or die game. GO CHIEFS.

Everyone, have a great day!

__________________
Alida
5'1" ~ 59 years old
Highest weight: 165
Atkins 7/10/2004
160/126/125
RE-DO, January 2008:
167/162/135

The Cat Alarm wouldn't quit this morning, so I'm up as early as always. Teel, so sorry about the ruination of your project. One of our kitties was very mad at us last summer, even though resident grandson gave them plenty of TLC. I've got a drapery in the dining room that's hopelessly stained. Luckily it's in an out-of-the-way location. This may be "nature's way" of telling me I simply MUST redecorate. But in your case--aaack!

I'm driving to Baldwin City today (about 45 minutes) for Baker graduation, to march in the graduate school faculty line-up. They pay us gas money to do it. More to the point, my very nice neighbor is getting his MBA today, and I'm delighted to cheer for him. I teach in the liberal arts program--their graduation happens separately at 4:00. But I'm not going to risk snow and darkness to stay for that.

The scales bounced up two pounds this morning. I still had my jammies on, but I don't think they weigh that much. I did have extra carbs yesterday, but that much of a change is still surprising, considering the scales haven't budged a millimeter either way for weeks. Oh well. We'll find out.

I've been, um, terribly gassy lately. I think it's too much cheese. DH brought home some plain yogurt, so I'm going to have a little of that to see if improving intestinal flora will help. I mixed it with some of the Pina Colada protein powder I have, and it made a delicious "pudding." I tried to freeze it for "ice cream" but it got solid! A recipe in Atkins has booze in it to retard freezing. Maybe I'll try that for a non-breakfast batch.

Ilse, if your computer Christmas cards don't work out, you can always try Hallmark. hee-hee. Of course, the President and Mrs. Bush caught a lot of flack for their beautiful (Hallmark) card this year. What's the matter with these critics? Why don't they go after the really bad stuff??

Bye for now.

__________________
Barb L.
Atkins since Jan 2003
Maintenance as of 4/05


My Fitday Journal

Judy, thanks for the funny story - it's so nice to have a good laugh in the morning!

Alida, thanks for the tip about ZeroOdor. I've been using Nature's Miracle and OxyClean for Bumble's ocassional errors. Despite her life long "neurosis" (she's a 'fraidy cat and has some odd behaviors), Bumble is such a sweetie. She seemed unusually happy and affectionate that morning. Maybe she felt it was a "gift"?

Do you think it would help the situation with the birds flying into the window if I leave the light on all the time? Will that break up the mirror effect? Also, I need to ask you about what type of film would best keep the new floor from fading?

Donna, how did the furniture shopping go? Were you able to find the pieces you wanted? I dunno about your boss giving you a raise. As he spent so much money on the car, he probably can't afford to increase your salary now... car payments you know? Sorry, but he sounds like such a jerk.

Barb, I bet the probiotics in the yogurt help your tummy. I had a friend who was very, very keen on the healthful properties of probiotics. Sometimes, I buy some kefir from Whole Foods and mix it with vanilla or coconut DaVinci syrup - oh, yeah!

Peg, I think it's a really good plan to take the whole winter to check out the environment at the OFH. Other than the indifferent staff person, how are you liking the development? I know you are loving the weather, at least! We've been having sunny, cool days all week, although, it's very cloudy today with a chance of rain. I hope DH will stay around help me wrap presents, although he is not averse to playing golf in the rain - any weather, really - as long as they let him on the course.

__________________
~~~Teelbee
Back to GOAL!!!
start weight: 176/goal range: 137-134/now: 138
Reached goal in Aug. 2003 - 4rd year of maintenance.

Hi all, just checking in before heading out to the hospital? things are moving along ? I just wanted to get back in touch with you all ? I miss you all terribly and feel so completely out of place and out of sync? here it is the week before Christmas and I am not making cookies, going to parties, wrapping gifts, decorating a tree, singing, sending cards ? all of that is just not happening ? and weirdly, it?s ok?. Talk about a low stress Christmas! ? it?s basically a ?non-Christmas?.? I?ve never had one like this...

MIL (no ?D? about her) is actually recovering at an incredible pace ? out of ICU in three days, yesterday was eating, moving, chatting, etc? The whole famn damily was here on Sunday-Monday-Tuesday ? meaning the three kids, all of the grandkids from one family, and their kids (the greatgrands), half the grandkids from the other family?and her sisters, and her long ago divorced SIL, etc? all taking turns sitting with her in the ICU, all putting their incredibly busy lives on hold to spending this time here. These are such GREAT people and this woman has basically been a real sh*t to them for the better part of her 78 years. Can you see my head shaking?!? Makes me tremble with fear at growing old without children ? I will never have this kind of family to help me and support me when I am in a terrible spot ? scares the beejeesus outta me. Whatever. The best part was seeing most of them again ? like an unexpected family reunion ? THAT part was a wonderful gift and both DH and I have recognized it as such and enjoyed it immensely.

Enough ? we are ?taking a break? and driving to Seattle this weekend to visit with some old friends? DH spends from 6:00am ? 8:00pm every single day in the hospital at bedside ? doing the better part of the nursing staff?s duties (they love him, of course)? and now he needs a break. Spain is out of the picture now which I don?t mind so much but bothers me for DH ? he has spent months studying Spanish and needed this break so badly. <<sigh>>

Alida, I have been thinking of you and hoping that your friend is comfortable. I have been reading your posts and I am glad that you are able to stay balanced about all of this. Bless your dear heart. I still have your CV ? I haven?t forgotten ? it just became too far down the crises list to attack (frankly, I think it looks quite excellent and probably doesn?t need much help) ? but I wanted to tell you that I?m embarrassed that I offered to help and then left you completely hanging. Please forgive me?

Brenda, you are so skilled and artistic ? it must be such a delight to friends and family who are the beneficiaries of your gifts!! The best I could do this year was put everyone?s Christmas gifts into drawstring bags. I went to the local fabric store, dug through the .99 cent/yard bin for Christmas-y fabrics and sewed a bunch of different sized bags (depended on the gift size!). It is hard for me to help my family feel like we are with them in spirit when we are not there in person. I find I still can?t bring myself to be there for Christmas ? not without children of my own ? just too, too painful... I suppose time will tell.

Donna, a new station?! A huge undertaking for this time of year ? congrats are in order, I suppose, but I?m sorry for all the extra work it is going to cause you (and you are RIGHT on about the gals ?doing? Xmas ? boy, no kidding). Your boss is a textbook a**hole ? your tales of woe with this guy are just outrageous? and I?m so sorry! He could sure use a (double)shot of ?compassion? and ?thoughtfulness?.... especially around this time of year.

Peg, how was the choir concert ? boy, I miss the singing at this time of year? <<sigh>> I hope the decision about the OFH gets a little easier ? I know what you mean about first impressions ? not great.

Judy, I?m also curious about the JofP job? And congrats on the two extra class plannings ? I loved (and agreed with) Barb?s comment!!

Terry, <<groan>> about the cat, what a bummer ? but that?s part of being a pet lover, I guess! I?m sorry!! My folks have huge picture windows in the back of the house and also have occasional bird in glass trouble. They also use ? on occasion ? the hawk outlines ? there may be other kinds of stickers (those kind that don?t actually stick ? but peel off and on glass easily) that you can use ? just for this brief time of year that the windows are glaring wrong for the birds?

Barb? I have to check on line and find out why the Bushes caught grief for their Christmas cards? I personally find that I like the UNICEF cards ? I like the multi-language message and where the money goes (no offense to Hallmark ? I like them for individual messages!).

Shelley? I?m glad to hear your belly is better! I wanted you to know that DH and I got here with carry on bags and I have had to buy clothing for us ? including coats and gloves. I bought a pair of nike running shoes and my favorite thorlo sox from a local Foot Locker and cheap sweats at Target and walked yesterday for an hour (just about 4 miles)? my shins are killing me today so I?ll wait and walk tomorrow, too. I am heavy and flabby and uncomfortable in all my clothes and for the fourth month in a row I am living in places without kitchens and the ability to control my food intake ? this is so tiring. But at least I can walk, right?!

Ok all?. I must go, much to do and I?ll head over to the hospital now and spell DH for a little while. Boy I miss you all and my routines and my life. <<Sigh>> much love to you - Rachel

__________________
Hugs, Rachel



Quien canta, sus males espanta... ("She who sings frightens away her ills") Miguel de Cervantes

Hi guys,
I started several posts then deleted them before hitting the *post* button...<sigh>.
I hate to tell you all this, because I don't want to sound like a whinney child, but I have now come down with a URI(upper resp infection)...aacckkk! Last weekend was the stomach bug from hell, now the URI from the same place. I could just cry. OK, now I DO sound whiney. It's always something!

I have been following along. It sounds like everyone is super busy getting ready for old St. Nick We will get 4 glorious days off at my work, but [they] are going to kill us before and after...har!

Teel, so sorry Bumble had that *accident* on your gift bags. Our Fu-kitty had some litter box *issues* when she got older. She found her box alright, but would sometimes let go with the urine, not in a *squatting* position, if you know what I mean, and she would spray the wall behind the litter box. I got wise and *wallpapered* her potty area with large white trash can liners, as well as the floor, and just replaced the plastic each time she did a *spray job*. Necessity is the mother of invention when you have animals...LOL. Hope your new interventions work.

Alida, baking again today? I may need to come see you and taste some of those goodies...hehe. I'm stickin' to my guns and not baking...dang it's hard! Of course, last weekend and now this one, I couldn't bake if someone paid me high dollars to.

Donna, you're gettin' close to that beautiful new room, girl! Hoping your brother is putting that new floor down right now as I type this. I can't wait to see your pics!
You know we are a visual group, so I do hope you come through with some pics real soon <wink>

Peg, how are you doing? You haven't said, or I might have missed it, but will you get to spend Christmas eve or day with your DD and DGKs? Is that scarf you are knitting for DD3 a Christmas present? Anything I would knit could NOT be used as a present...LOL. You and Bren are soooo good!

And, Bren...any clues on Dad's quick return home? I was hoping you might have a *scoop* for us on the DD-Marge story. And, any pics of your latest creations, missy?
I love seeing what you have crafted...again, you are soooo good!

Barb, hope you have had a lovely day at Baker. Please do take care in the snow and the dark! We had some big, fat, fluffy flakes falling at noon time, but it has now turned to drizzle and will freeze tonight....aacckk! We jokingly say that it doesn't know how to snow in OOOOOklahoma, because all we usually end up with is the ice!

Rachel...hope you are doing ok. I noticed you were on site earlier and was so looking forward to hearing from you. How's the MIL? Do you think you will still make it to Spain for Christmas? I'm sending good thoughts and wishes your way, and hoping all your planets re-align real soon and all is good

Judy...hi! Been thinking about you. There is a remote chance I may buzz down to Tyler to see my SIL after the first of the year. If I give ya a heads up, maybe we could meet for coffee after school or lunch on Saturday or something...whatdya think?

One of the posts I didn't submit was making a statement about the *Christmas vs. holidays* politically correct bull-baloney that's been in the news lately. I'm a child of the 60's more or less, and yes, in my college days was a wee bit *anti-establishment*...remember that term? Once again I find myself in the *anti-establishment* mode...LOL. I have decided to continue saying Merry Christmas instead of happy holidays. I won't go any further on this subject in this thread, but I just felt like I had to verbalize that, yanno? And I agree with you, Barb...why can't the critics find something more significant to complain about?

Shelley stepping off of her soap box and exiting...stage left.

Later, chickadees.....
(((hugs to all)))

S.

__________________
Shelley


Visit Kassie's Korner


"A goal without a plan is just a wish."
--Antoine de Saint Exupery

I’m SOONER born,
And SOONER bred,
And when I die,
I’ll be SOONER dead!
GO SOONERS!
I be ready for some football!

One little walker-runner Dude for every 10 miles!

oh, oh..Rachel......posting at near the same time!
Good to hear from you!
Sending you many (((hugs))) girlfriend!
Muuuuaahhhh

Shelley

__________________
Shelley


Visit Kassie's Korner


"A goal without a plan is just a wish."
--Antoine de Saint Exupery

I’m SOONER born,
And SOONER bred,
And when I die,
I’ll be SOONER dead!
GO SOONERS!
I be ready for some football!

One little walker-runner Dude for every 10 miles!

Good Morning!

MERRY CHRISTMAS. Sheesh. What were the statistics? Over 90% of our population celebrates Christmas? I say to the upstarts, "Live with it." On the other hand, if I see a mezuzah in the doorway, I will say "Happy Holidays." Especially apt this year as Hanukkah starts Dec. 26. Actually, Happy Holidays is pretty traditional anyway, as it combines Christmas and New Year's.

On Fox News yesterday, there was a Jew on a stock program who exclaimed he loved Christmas. Put on a Santa hat and said Christmas was good for the economy. That's another way of looking at it! Rant Over.

Barb, so you have a Kitty Alarm, eh? I had a Siamese who used to wake me up by washing my eye lids. Try sleeping through that. Actually, I thought it was pretty smart of that cat to equate open eyes with being awake and giving FOOD. Now, my cats don't have to wake me as I am usually the one who wakes them up!

Never heard of Baldwin City. Why do they have the graduation ceremonies there? Is that where their main campus is? I do hope the driving was OK. Not as much snow as predicted, which is a relief.

Well, maybe a pound was the jammies! Maybe not enough water? Hope your tummy feels better . . . .

Judy, LOL! Thanks for the laugh! Are you off yet? Or a few more days this week?

Terry, leaving a light on all the time may help. It might lessen the outdoor reflection. Try it and go outside and check. I've never checked this out. I know we will tell people who specifically ask about wanting privacy at night, to shine a light on the window from the outside. But I think those hawk cling things will do the trick better.

As for what's the best film to prevent fading: the fade equation is 40% UV, 25% glare, 25% heat, and 10% is due to things you cannot control, like incadescent lights, dye lots, etc.

Most films reduce UV by 99%. But UV's only 40% of the fade equation. If you really want to retard fading as long as possible, you need to also address heat and glare, which combined, is 50% of the fade equation. So, essentially, the darker the film, the better. This is a personal judgement call. Want more light? You will get fade sooner. Adding to the confusion, some of the newer films let more light in while bocking more heat. 3M is supposed to come out with a new miracle film next year that uses nanotechnology. Blocks heat! Let's in more light! Non-reflective! Sounds like smoke and mirrors, but if it's possible, 3M will do it.

All the above being said, the current film of choice for my customers is NV25. It blocks 38% of the heat on double pane glass, and 71% of the glare. Sells for about $5 to $5.50 a square foot, installed with a lifetime warranty on the film itself. Without film, you can expect fade within a year or so, depending on direction the windows face. With the above type of film protection, you will retard the process by about 12 to 15 years. After that, you may need to replace the film to continue protection. Nothing STOPS fade completely. Well, maybe no sun or light! HTH.

Rachel: (((HUGS)))
Talk about a change in holiday plans. It's good to vent here, though. Get it out of your system. It's not Spain, but you are with a lot of people you care about (extended family, if not the Mother!) and of course, your DH. Wherever the two of you are together, it's Christmas!

Side note: Your expression, "famn damily" is one my mother used all the time! Brought back many memories . . . .

Yanno, Rachel, I don't have any natural children either. That thought about growing old alone has crossed my mind. But don't dwell on it. I'll bet there are more people out there who love you and will support you than you can ever imagine! Plus, I take comfort in the fact that I am never truly alone. God's always there.

Speaking of God -- another side note -- a friend of mine wrote in an e-mail that God has three answers to prayers:
1) "Yes!" 2) "Not Yet!" 3) "I Have Something Better In Mind!"

I am so glad you are taking a break from hospital duties and going to visit friends. There's a little bonus you did not know you were going to have!

As for the resume, no need to forgive and not a problem! Brenda put me on the right path and my DIL also contributed. I am very comfortable with it now.

Again, (((Hugs!))) Hang in there. Years from now, this will make a good "Christmas Story."

Shelley, you get (((HUGS!))), too! That darn bug is certainly moving around your body! At least an URI is identifiable and cured with drugs. Some small saving grace. Sorry you are going through this. Hope you are feeling better today.

How great you and Judy may get together! That is so cool!

Brenda, my cousin sent me a little package yesterday with "Marshall Field's Last Christmas Shopping Bag" in it! She also sends me little clippings from the newspaper about the changeover to Macy's. Kinda sad, isn't it? So many traditions. Hope they keep the clock!

Please post pictures of your latest creations! I love looking at them.

Cards out yet??? Tree up yet??? Maybe no tree this year????

Peg, Ilse, Donna:

Yup, yesterday was more baking and cooking. Made 50 Polish Pierogies. Think Ravioli with a cheese filling and you pretty much get the picture. It's a traditional Polish dish for Christmas Eve. Boy, that dough, though, is one rubbery sucker. Roll, roll, roll, and still springs back. Have to roll forever to get the dough thin. It's a basic flour and egg dough but I add sour cream to the mix. Also made my egg nog, Henry's LC Chocolate Truffles, another pan of those LC Pecan Blondies that were a disaster last time. This time I follwed directions. Wonderful! Then I pooped out and took a nap.

My sister arrives Friday. I have today, Monday and Thursday to finish ALL. Tuesday and Wednesday I have jobs. And Wednesday's is a MESS with this black caulking stuff which gets all over my hands. Major manicure due on Thursday, along with a hair cut. Usually I give my hairdresser a 3M gift box, but seeing as how my sister ordered them so late, they may not get here. Oh well. He'll get in in January.

Have a great day everyone!

__________________
Alida
5'1" ~ 59 years old
Highest weight: 165
Atkins 7/10/2004
160/126/125
RE-DO, January 2008:
167/162/135

Snowy Sunday morning. Hello, my friends. I wimped out on the drive to Baker yesterday because of the snow, and spent the day vegging at home. Well, not exactly vegging. I dug out all my resources, and got going on lesson plans for my class, and got the procrastination monkey off my back. Watched "Shall We Dance?" and started a new book DH got for me--The Divide by Nicholas Evans who wrote The Horse Whisperer. It's a soap opera, but pretty good writing. I just learned the definition of the term "frog-march"--forcibly moving someone under restraint, as with their arms pinned back. Used to be face down, frog-like, with each limb carried by a different person. Just so's you'll know next time you see it on tv.

Rachel, even though this year it isn't voluntary for you, it's possible to have a no-stress Christmas by choice. No one dies when they don't get the customary baked goods and cleverly-wrapped, painstakingly-selected gifts. So...unless you genuinely, enthusiastically enjoy doing those things, DON'T.

I don't have children either. I rather hope that my two sisters and I will continue to be the friends we are now right up to the end, but someone has to go last. I expect to outlive anyone who ever loved me, so I'm preparing to be cheerful enough in my old age to be the "darling" of the staff at whatever facility takes me in.

As for UNICEF--turns out they've turned to Hallmark to create and manufacture their cards in the future. Some "child art" will be included, and the charitable aspect will continue. But the economics apparently required corporate involvement. Couldn't have chosen a better partner.

Shelley, working in a hospital is a health hazard. Under stress, it's no wonder you're on the sick list. It's not whining. Wish we could do more than commiserate by e-mail--you're due a pot of chicken soup, and someone to tuck you in and wait on you hand and foot for about five days.

More snow overnight. I'll try to get to church this morning, but after that, it's back to home base. I've got the ingredients handy for a low-carb lime pie, so I might actually take to cooking.

Lay low everybody. Let peace and goodwill sneak in.

P. S. Hi, Alida. Posting simultaneously again, I see! You've got a busy week planned. You really DO enjoy the cooking! And everyone's happier for that, too.

__________________
Barb L.
Atkins since Jan 2003
Maintenance as of 4/05


My Fitday Journal

Barb, so you did decide not to go to Baker yesterday. Probably a wise choice. Vegging when it's snowy is always good.

Your advice about a low stress Christmas is good. Thing is, if I DIDN'T do all these things, it wouldn't FEEL like Christmas! Next year, I plan on doing less planning and more enjoying!

Frog march. Yes. Always wondered about that. Now I know!

Meanwhile, I was getting out my Christmas dishes. Out of stock pattern similar to the popular Lenox Holly pattern. Short 6 bread and butter plates and had the great idea of checking e-bay. Yikes! They want something like $22 PER PLATE. Dinner plates go for $50. Gotta tell my DIL to take these when I die and sell them on e-bay!

__________________
Alida
5'1" ~ 59 years old
Highest weight: 165
Atkins 7/10/2004
160/126/125
RE-DO, January 2008:
167/162/135

I feel as though I've missed so much in just a couple of days! Promises to come back later with a nice latte and chat for a while. But first, gonna tackle the unwrapped presents and at least get the tabletop tree up, even if undecorated. It's colder than (fill in your own favorite expression here ) but the sun is shining and I'm going to be in the spirit if it kills me

Meanwhile here are the girls' bracelets, excuse photography. Nothing really new--I've sold a lot of this style this year. However, I thought the pastels were cute. The customer couldn't help me out with size or colors , so those of you who know pre-teens, tell me what you think.

Attached Thumbnails

   

__________________
BC
LC Since 1998
Highest Weight 172
Current 104-108

Brenda, LOL! Oh go ahead and put a few ornaments up, too!

The bracelets are GORGEOUS! I love the pastel colors. I would think anyone, pre-teen or adult would love these.

One day, (after I get a job) I may have to order one of these for myself. You really are a true artist. I am in awe.

__________________
Alida
5'1" ~ 59 years old
Highest weight: 165
Atkins 7/10/2004
160/126/125
RE-DO, January 2008:
167/162/135

Alida, you are such a dear. One of the things I love about you most is that you always find a way to make people feel good.

Yes, I'm back, not only with latte, but also with an ounce or two of viognier which I richly deserve today. I guess you could call me a two-fisted drinker at the moment Tree up, which entailed pulling the thing out of its box by the star and plugging it in, and the presents are wrapped. (ornaments? ornaments!......nah) A White Sox World Series sweatshirt I'd bought for Dad still had the danged security dohicky on it, so I made a trek back to mall h*ll, too! A clean house (almost) and laundry round out my perfect day

Rachel, what a frustrating experience, yet you are able to make a little lemonade out of the experience and enjoy your relatives. So sorry you've missed your vacation and have to deal with the frustration of having your chain jerked. Good that you can take a break and visit friends!

Rachel, you tapped into one of my fears--that of being alone and helpless late in life. Like you, Barb, Alida, I don't have children either. Or siblings. Or other family to speak of. I deal with that fear mostly by not dealing with it, frankly. Nursing homes are stacked with the elderly with no families or disinterested ones, and I don't see that getting better as those of us who are baby boomers start crowding the facilities. I really can't put an optimistic face on the possibilities, but it is certainly one good reason to stay as healthy as we can for as long as we can.

TB, oh my goodness! Poor you! Poor Bumble! I know you are ~over~ it now, but I can imagine the gamut of emotions you must have experienced. My opinion, for whatever it's worth, is that humane containment for an otherwise relatively healthy senior companion animal is preferable to the alternative. That way, you establish a "safe place" where whatever happens will happen when you can't be actively managing what she's up to. Perhaps she'd even experience less anxiety, too. Alida, perfect example of what we are willing to do for aging pets, and TB, I'm sure you've had much experience with senior cats yourself. It can certainly be disheartening, so I hope you come up with a creative solution.

TB, on the birds, I'm wondering if there is anything you could put outside in the birds' path without blocking too much of your view? Is there room to hang a plant on a stand or from the eaves? Or a wind chime? Or perhaps during this time of year you could put a few decorative but reflective decals or suncatchers in your window to discourage them?

Peg, perhaps it will all work out with the OFH in good time, or you'll find an alternative, but boy I'm with you on hating that kind of reception considering how much you are planning to invest there, not to mention live there! I'm glad you got a better reception second time around. Speaking of scarves, I'm busy on one myself. Saw a gorgeous sample at a LYS (local yarn shop) out of this gorgeous hand dyed stuff in a sumptuous colorway with a metallic thread and knitted in a chevron pattern. You'd think since there are only TWO FREEKIN' ROWS to the pattern that it would be a no brainer, but I swear I've tinked every stinking row so far and in two days have about 4 inches to show for it. Talk about being humbled.

Donna, whew. Another station? I certainly wish you and Dh the very best, but I know how concerned you must be about all it entails. On the positive side, I'm hoping to hearing about your floor and how you made out shopping for the remaining furniture. So exciting!!!! And honey, find those cajones and ask for that raise. You deserve it.

Shelley! Good grief, girl. You've had your share of bugs and germs for sure, so tell them to get lost so you can have a good Christmas. But most of all, tell all those people with their elective surgeries to give you a break!!! Too much work and too much stress!

Barb, if the yogurt doesnt seem to help, the tummy issues may not be due to lack of friendly buggies (probiotics). At our age, we only make about half of the digestive enzymes we did in our youth, but that's easily supplemented by a visit to the HFS. If you are ever interested, look for a product with the most number of enzymes--various ones are responsible for the efficient breakdown of rather specific fats, proteins, starch, soluble fiber, milk sugar, etc into readily digestible material--and look for the highest activity level. Potency in enzymes is measured in activity level rather normally (generally USP or other exotic units) rather than weight (mg). An example of a specific digestive enzyme is the one in Beeno Alpha-Galactosidase, which aides the digestion of certain starches within a particular ph range. A broad spectrum digestive enzyme product might made a huge difference. Alida? I've read that some parents are having good improvement in autistic children using digestive enzymes and modified diets, but that might be something your dsil and family are already familiar with.

Judy, thanks for the laugh!!!!! Here's my contribution:

Husband says to Wife: "Honey, I know just what I want you to get me for Christmas!"

Wife: "What is that, Dear?"

Husband: "I want something that goes fast, from 0 to 200 in less than 10 seconds!!!!"
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-
-
-
Are you ready?
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-
-

Wife: "Fine, dear. I"ll get you a scale."

On that note, Good Nite, friends.

__________________
BC
LC Since 1998
Highest Weight 172
Current 104-108

Oh my friends, it's been so many days since I had the chance to post that I have had to go back 4 pages to catch up. This is rambling and somewhat disjointed. I'm afraid that the post would take a page by itself if I try to speak to everyone tonight. So, this is sort of hit and miss. It does appear that everyone is about to get to some sort of state of readiness for Christmas. I do believe that Barb has the right idea --- make it as low key as possible. I'm really jealous of your opportunity to "veg out". Rachel, I am sorry that your regular plans were interrupted by MIL's hospitalization, but it does seem that it gave you a chance for a restful break from extreme preparations and travel.

Shelley, I would love to meet you in Tyler. I am tied to a couple of prior commitments (hostess for a shower on the 7th I think, and Regional Aca Dec on the 20th and 21st.) The shower is sort of iffy right now. The lady "in charge" has not done anything about setting up a meeting or moving toward getting anything done. I am not going to volunteer my house or be in charge. I am glad to help as a hostess, but that's it. If she doesn't get on with it, the whole thing may fall through.

Alida, Check Replacementsltd.com for the plates for your china. They have really good prices. Three or four years ago that's where I found the one dinner plate that I needed to complete my china after 30 years of searching. I didn't care what it cost at that time. I was just glad to find it. We bought DDIL a serving piece to her Christmas china from them as part of her Christmas present. It was cheaper than the local businesses.

A couple of you asked why I decided not to run for Justice of the Peace. I made the decision for a number of reasons. The main ones are that the incumbent does plan to run again (at age 70), and more than that, running against an incumbent would probably cost me the entire first year's salary just to pay for the campaign. Let me also clarify the invitation that I received last week. The writer of a curriculum manual has asked me to evaluate two of the lessons that he has written. It involves only testing his lessons in my classroom. The author is the most respected writer of teaching materials for economic classes. I am pleased to be asked, and really pleased to get $400 just for testing his lessons. That's not a bad gig. Right now I am still undecided about my future. I'm afraid that if I quit, I would only find something paying around $8 per hour. We live in a very low paying area. I can't see working 8 hours a day 50 weeks a year for that kind of money. Right now I am considering just staying in teaching and dropping Aca Dec. It is so time intensive that I would feel like I had retired if I didn't have it. Oh well, that decision is one that can be made later in the spring. Alida, don't feel alone......... you are not the only one that has to work and needs that pay check coming in. We've had some financial issues along the way, too. I see another 10 years at least before I could realistically consider retiring. Hey, I would only be 65 in 10 years --- that doesn't sound too bad......... until I remember that my mother died at 65.

Uhhh, this is getting long. Our holiday has started, so I WILL be back tomorrow. On my agenda tomorrow is to finish wrapping presents, finish shopping and do some cooking. I have succumbed to too many treats already. I'm going to try to make some safer things to have around.

Until tomorrow.............

__________________
Judy
Goal = <135, Current status = RIGHT ON TARGET!
Never give up. Never never never never give up -- Winston Churchill