Good morning!

Barb, oh, I can't wait to see your Dorothy Hamill! Is it a lay-back? Camel? And that's the extent of my knowledge of ice skating terms.

Roses! Chocolate! and probably a few other things. How wonderful!

You are lucky you don't have to go out today. I do have to run to Blockbuster to return some DVDs. But the snow is very pretty this morning -- sort of on the mushy side, though.

Back to Peg's question. If I knew the answer as to why I continue to eat poorly when I know it will make me fatter which I know will make me mad at myself .... I would be rich. I really think some of it is selfishness. I do what I like to do. It would be great if I liked exercise, but I do not. It still hurts to walk for any distance (other hip). The exercises I know for slimming my thighs require laying on my surgery scar. No can do. I can do leg lifts, but only for one leg. So, I do nothing. Take that back. I am starting on some waist and upper arm exercises while watching a movie. And because I hate doing dishes, I do not prepare a nice meal for myself. It goes on and on. I go back to the feeling I had when I was on OWL. where is it? What was it? More on that later, once I figure it out.

XXOO

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

Morning gang! I was planning on the gym this morning but woke up with stiff calves so decided to stretch a bit then get more sleep. After stretching more this afternoon I'll go and come home to stretch more. Obviously didn't do enough of that yesterday.

Died my hair and my DH is trying to convince me to keep it the same because he loves it. It looks yellowish?orangish? But it's different so maybe I just need to give it a chance. Plan on next dye to go more red then blond which I think would be a better color on me. We found a good product that DH feels confident about that he'll be able to do the root touch up once a month that is listed on the box. Then I can keep my hair color light like I like but not risk damage.

I'll have to post a picture later of my hair. Have to say I'm feeling uncomfortable with it to go to church this morning but will go anyway. Guess I'm afraid that church people will be honest like they are suppose to - lol.

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This was a shopping weekend. I have a new collection of Caphalon pans. Not a 'set', because I wanted pieces that I know I wanted, and the set had several I would probably never use.
Went to Linen N Things - sale, gift card, I can deal with that.

and I got a large size George Foreman Lean Mean Grilling Machine for $30. It was a special purchase, usually they are $80 or more.
of course I more than made up for it today at the grocery store. Lots of good meat (steak, pork, chicken) to grill and I'm looking forward to it.

I've been bad, and I know short term quick loss is not the goal of this plan - but I have 1-1/2 weeks to feel comfortable in my jeans.
I'm taking the lyrica in a low dose every 8 hours and it seems to be working. although my toes are rather strange looking with the second one always trying to get back to the big toe. kinda a Vulcan toe signal.

meanwhile, I picked up a book this morning to read. it looks quite interesting - Its call Body Clutter - love your body, love yourself. its a 'baby steps' approach to "handle and erase the clutter they carry on their bodies and minds when it comes to body image". Flipping through it - I think it will be fun to read, but may also help me. Lots of good chapters dealing with body image, and changing your routines and getting rid of excuses.

so, I'm feeling a little less out of control right now and hope I can stay this way all through vacation. we are alone on this one so hubby will follow my lead as far as restaurant choices and stuff.

1-1/2 weeks. that's all I have to do to get my mind set working. and my pants / chaps fitting.


I'm anxious to see a picture of your hair Heather. it is hard to 'go blonde' the first time. But you will get used to it.

Off to clean up the kitchen - got pots and pans all over the table to put in a tub for the kids to get their choices.

hugs to all, and I hope everyone is feeling better now.

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Mary Kay 1/1/04 - 232
5/19/08 (5/23/08) - sw226/(cw222)/mg210/fg160

Mary Kay, congrats on the power shopping. Always fun to get a deal.
Heather, hang in there. You have been really dedicated to your goals, and you deserve the pay-off.

The snow has stopped, and will soon melt away to mush. However, I STILL have to stay home and organize that tax stuff.

Here's the promised picture. A little fuzzy, since I was speeding along, but here you are.

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


My Fitday Journal

Okay, here is me posing for fun with my new hair. I think it looks pretty good on camera but to me doesn't look the same in bright lights! I was worried because I saw so many people who talked to me but didn't say anything at church. Can't say something nice don't say anything at all was on my mind, ha ha. But finally 3 different people have said they like it, no really like it (when I made a face). So, I'll give it a chance for a week. Certainly didn't turn blond.
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MaryKay - $30 George Foreman!! Wow, what a find! We love ours, my DH uses it all the time. / I have Body Clutter!! I sent it to my stepmom when she started dieting. It really is a wonderful book.
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Barb - Love the picture talented one! You are a woman of many talents.

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An absolute hit and run to let you guys know that we are home and that all weekend events came out well. The weather was so bad yesterday evening that we stayed over in Dallas another night. Dad's root canals were partially successful. One is done and the other one is packed with something to see if it will be possible to save the tooth. He is having no pain or discomfort. I really think he probably doesn't have much feeling left in his mouth as it is. How can you have two horribly abscessed teeth and not even realize it. The process for total repairs will be about 3 months. He has a lot that needs to be done. See what happens when you can't/don't brush you teeth...........

Peg, I am definitely thinking on your post. I find myself in much the same position.

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Judy
highest = 180, goal = 140
Every single time I put food in my mouth, it matters. No more fooling myself!

Monday morning--only four more to go! The anticipation has a surreal quality to it.

Judy, there's no rest for you, is there? I'm glad things went all right with the dentistry--especially the "no pain" part. (I'll remember to floss.)

Heather, I think that honey blonde color is beautiful on you. You've got fabulous eyes, in any case. Fun with hair color is a harmless adventure that makes life more entertaining. Go for it!

Peg, back to your "issue." In answer to your question, I DO look at myself naked--critically, too. The "dreaded cellulite" is the curse of my thighs and butt--but I'm absolutely sure that 99.9 per cent of women have it, and no man on the planet cares one way or another when he's got a naked woman to look at. The same could be said of a poochy tummy, or less-than-perky breasts.

On Saturday, arriving home at the airport, I watched a couple greet each other. They were both of some middle age, not in the least attractive in a conventional sense--except, wildly, to each other. They couldn't stop nuzzling and hugging and kissing. They made the wait at baggage claim much more entertaining.

I say we look at our bodies with eyes of love like that.

The ONLY good reason for making the effort at healthy eating is--HEALTHY eating. I'm sure that a continuing low-carb habit will prolong my life. It solves problems I've had with my digestive system. And I simply don't overeat anymore. Those are worthy achievements, apart from appearance.

It's possible that where you are is your "happy weight" regardless of what you think about the number or how you look naked. We all know you're a gorgeous gal when you step out. So maybe it's time to relax and just do your best with maintenance.

Gotta run. It's a workday for everyone who doesn't get Presidents' Day as a holiday. No mail.

Take care everybody.

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


My Fitday Journal

It started awful, with a bad dream that the military was killing people (including me) at the airport as a top secret mission to stop a disease being spread. I had just previously noticed in my dream a man coughing and with sores all over him before the military got involved. During this take over I was able to run away and hitch a ride on a bus before waking up in a panic. Instead of going back to that dream I went to the gym at 4:30 am. I was the only one there for awhile so decided to give running a chance. Made it an awful 15 minutes before feeling like I just couldn't breath anymore so jumped over to the fancy elliptical/stepper type machines for an hour. Completed my gym time with some ab work. I just love the gym and always seem to work out things there. Nothing like beating something out of you right?
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Judy - Thanks for checking in! Glad you made it back safe and sound.
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Barb - Oh yes, motivation is doing...healthy eating, exercise...I was talking with my mother on how hard it can be to stay on a "diet". I've been doing it so long now that it just seems like my thing. Heather the exercising healthy eating lady.

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Hi guys!
FINALLY!!! I think I'm making some progress in defeating this cruddy-crud-crud I've had for nearly 2 weeks!
I still have the PITA cough, but ears and throat are really almost back to normal. And...BIG NEWS!!! I actually got dressed and went grocery shopping this morning!! Gasp!dance2 Pretty pooped out, but at least I think I'm back in the game mentally, yanno?

Barb...glad a fun time was had by all in CO!!! Sounds like it was a most splendid get-away!

Alida...I'm glad you are able to slow down to some degree on the number of days you are working. I know it doesn't look to good on the old paycheck, but try to think of it as a little mental health break!

MK...wowzers! Your vacation is just around the corner, eh?
Will you be able to ride that far on the bike without your foot being to uncomfortable? Hope your foot does well, and have a super time!!! Vacations are good for what ails, ya, yanno? Enjoy!

Donna...hope you are getting lots of sunshine! It seems you guys get spring a little earlier than we do, though that doesn't make any sense...LOL! Glad you got the card on time!

Bren...hope you are good. I bet you've been busy as a little bee with some new yarn, eh??? Glad your field trip was so fun!

Heather...I like your hair!! Just give yourself time to get used to it. You might try some of the shampoo for *blondes* if you think the color is to *brassy*. I use a blonde formula now that I have highlights and it does help.

Bert, Judy...hey to you two Texas gals!(one native and one not!)

Peg...I also *ruminated* a wee bit on your post. I did see Carson Kressly's show on LIFETIME called How to Look Good Naked.
I had a little bit of a problem with the whole scenario; you know, a gay man telling a straight woman about her *assets*. But, I do think he is a very sincere person, and the girl the night I watched seemed to come away with a new and improved attitude. Anyway, I've spent many, many years HATING my body until I had a realization. My realization was, alot like Heather's line of thinking...health has to be my #1 priority. What if my body doesn't look perfect like a 26 year olds? I mean lets face it...my body didn't look good when I was 26, but if at 53 I can be the best I can be and healthy, then what's not to be thankful for?
I'm not fond of my saggy upper arms, but at least I've got arms...arms to hug my friends with and love on my husband and grandson with. Same with *the girls*...not where they used to be, but at least I have my *originals* and they are healthy at this time to the best of my knowledge. Same with the butt and belly...a little shakey like jelly sometimes, but belly and butt trimming jeans help, and DH is the only one to see those parts and he has no complaints(never has even when I was at a top high weight of close to 200 lbs).
My other thought was, I love my DH despite any saggy skin here or there, his increasingly receding hairline and other signs of *natural wear and tear*. So if I don't love anyone less for their imperfections, why should I love myself less? Just me.
So for me, I guess I would say, it means more to me to BE HEALTHY and FUNCTIONAL over all, than it does to *look good* naked. Again, just me.
I've often thought, if I were lucky enough to get to a ridiculous low weight goal of say, 120 or 125, then I would need plastic surgery to remove, nip and tuck. Would I do that? Not very likely, but maybe. Would that make me happy? Not if I couldn't fitness walk, or ride my bike, or do weights or whatever. Looks are superficial...happiness, to me, is a state of mind...what my mind thinks about me, myself and I.
I hope you find what you are looking for, and I hope you have a realization that REALLY strikes a cord in you and makes you feel good about your self. Your VERY BEAUTIFUL self, dear Peg.

Well....we are in the midst of changing over all of our house insurance and auto insurance to a new company. A bit confusing(at least to me), but DH seems to be handling it without any problems...thank goodness!
I think when it's all said and done, we will be saving close to 1K per year on house and auto together. Better in my pocket than the insurance company's, eh?

OK...got a load of laundry to put in the dryer, and then another to go in the washer. Oye! Being sick for so long, I really got behind on chores and such. I'll need to get all my big time spring cleaning done before my BFF from Denver comes, but I've got several weeks to work on stuff, so I think it all will be done in good time.

later, chickadees,
(((hugs)))
s

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Shelley
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Visit Kassie's Korner



Life deserves a treat now and again, but life also deserves being healthy[with required disipline] to make it worth living!

Tuesday already?? Everybody's busy, I can tell.

Shelley, glad to hear you're on the mend. That YUCK really hangs on. I'm told that KC hasn't been as severely afflicted with flu this year, but there's still time. I'm sucking Airborne, just in case. Maybe it doesn't do anything, but I feel better trying.

I'm signed up for a 5K race on March 16, so I've been picking up the pace on the treadmill. Looks like I can sustain 4.5 mph (treadmill measure) for the required period of time. That isn't the same as running on a road--with hills--but I think I'll be able to handle the event anyway.

I'm trying to pace myself in other ways, too. I don't want to give up the luxury of quiet time in my own place, but somehow that's the first thing to disappear when other "interests" crowd in. Last night, I did sit down and watch my Netflix movie. Just a way of saying, "Hold your horses, girl."

Life is good. Hope you get your share of blessings today!

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


My Fitday Journal

Hi guys,
Where's everybody at??? I know I've seen some of youze guys logged on today!!!!<said in my best *stern* mother hen voice> LOL!
Hope everyone is just busy, and certainly not down with this crud that's going around.

Today I pretty much felt back to normal...well, yeah, if one can say I'm normal in the first place...

I did some chores today around the house; changed linens and did a couple loads of laundry. Then I *dug in* to sorting and shredding old medical/dental claims forms, and other odd bits and pieces of mail a person saves for *just in case*, and thankfully never uses. So, my dining room hutch and desk are now nicely organized; let's hope I can be inspired to keep it that way now!

Barb...probably taking the Airborne is NOT a bad idea. The big news seems to be that the CDC missed on the flu shot formula this year, and it's only protecting against about 40% of the flu viruses that are prevalent this season, instead of it's usual 85-90% effective rate. Here in OOOOklahoma, we are *in the red* with the flu watch; meaning it's very prevalent and active statewide. Actually, I think the whole US is in the *red*. Ack!
I did get a flu shot this year and DH did not; I think they help, especially for those with a compromised immune system and the elderly. You can click here to check on the flu status in your state.

Well, I am pretty pooped out from my afternoon of housekeeping tasks. I had BIG intentions of a n'hood walk this afternoon, as it was up in the 60s, but alas...I diddled my time away with the shredder and a dust rag! Tomorrow, we are supposed to be back to very cold, windy and then a winter mix late in the day. So...I don't think I will push my luck with an outdoor walk tomorrow.
There are several things I want from JCP that are on sale right now, so I may brave the cold and make a shopping run. I would love to get some more art and maybe a decorative mirror up in the guest room to finish it off, before my BFF gets here. Also have my eye on some bath accessories as well. It never ends....LOL!

Peg, I'm most anxious to hear from you;have you *ruminated* some more?

(((hugs all 'round)))
later, chickadees!
s

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Shelley
~~~~

Visit Kassie's Korner



Life deserves a treat now and again, but life also deserves being healthy[with required disipline] to make it worth living!

I'm here........ treading water as fast as I can to keep my head above the surface. I feel bad that I haven't had a chance to stop in more, and especially to give real consideration to Peg's question. Heck, I had to make a special note to myself just to remember to go buy a hairdryer this afternoon. When the sparks shot out of the old one this morning, I was afraid that it was going to set my hair on fire. For that matter, I think that is a suitable description of my life right now....... running with my hair on fire.

Do you know the song, "Get over it", by the Eagles? I would so love to crank it up for some people that I encounter every day.

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Judy
highest = 180, goal = 140
Every single time I put food in my mouth, it matters. No more fooling myself!

Hey gang! Busy days with me working out at the gym more. Was able to get in every day since last Friday. I'm thinking I'll take a break this next Friday so I don't overwork myself. Don't want to burn out.
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Shelley - What a good idea, I'll check out the blond shampoo's. Thank you! I was a bit nervous using a bottle of pert plus because the shampoo is green. It was thankfully fine. / Glad that you are feeling better.
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Barb - Can't wait to hear how you do March 16th. How excited! 4.5 mph is really good!
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Judy - lol at your Get over it comment.

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I'm here. Still ruminating.

Love you all, Peg

My life is obviously less stressed than some around here. I'm grateful for that, but wish I could hand out some extra hours of the day (and extra helping hands) to everybody. Not to mention good health and peace of mind. All that is on my prayer list for all of you.

Hair on fire? Careful, Judy! When do you get another break?

I'm meeting with a financial counselor this afternoon to see how my retirement income will stack up. I'm not worried, but I'll be interested in his ideas for making the most of it. These are thrilling times for investors, but not in a good way.

Peg, I picked up the National Enquirer yesterday--the issue with the "worst bodies" in Hollywood. It's so reassuring to see that celebrities don't look that good in real life. I don't know why we torture ourselves with body image issues, when kindness, love, and grace are the only things that count.

You know I'm lying, don't you? I'm the one who gets up at four in the morning to hit the fitness equipment. I'm the one who really, really wants firm upper arms and tight abs, and works to get them. I'm the one who runs her butt off as much as she can. Yes, I DO care that somebody finds me physically attractive. A lot. And that's why I've put in the effort, for years and years of my life. I can't have everything I want in my physical appearance. But what I can have, I work to get, with unflagging discipline. I can't bottle it for you. Sorry. But I won't say that looking as good as I can isn't important to me. It is. I won't accept defeat, even though time takes its toll.

That said, in all honesty, I also believe that true beauty is a quality that shines from within. It's about love and kindness and grace. You don't get it in a gym.

Everybody be beautiful today, okay?

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


My Fitday Journal