Daily Chatter 2013

As always, we start a new year with a new thread for posting Daily Chatter to make it easier for some to load.

See ya on Daily Chatter 2014!!

current weight: 253.0

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160

Pounds lost: 58.2

0 20.25 40.5 60.75

81

Hey, Deb, yes it was an old challenge, so I changed it on the post. We don't do the other one with BL, so I deleted that. Sorry for the confusion.

Hey, Debbi! Welcome back! Look forward to seeing you on the posts.

Leslie, let's get it goin on again, girl! You can do it! Great job on the down 5 pounds this year!

I will be working the next few days and may not be able to get on. So sign up and let's get 2014 rockin and rolling!!!

WooHoo....

Happy New Year!

current weight: 276.0

286 264.25 242.5 220.75

199

I was in onderlander then gain now back under
At 192.2
I will post more when get to reg computer
Ended year with 5.2 loss

Pounds lost: 58.2

0 20.25 40.5 60.75

81

HAPPY NEW YEAR OWS!!

I am ready to get back on board! Tomorrow is going to be a free day for me but on Thursday I get right to business.

Sorry I haven't been around. It was good to take some time off. Thanks Syn and everyone for keeping things going and you are still here and posting and creating another challenge!

I look forward to continued sharing and excitement as we move into 2014. Be safe and talk to you all next year!

current weight: 253.0

281 250.75 220.5 190.25

160

Deb, since the new year begins tomorrow, I set up the accountability challenge to be whate each individual would like it to be. Hope this works...

current weight: 276.0

286 264.25 242.5 220.75

199

Good morning all,

I've been away with the fllu. Ewwh. Still working on energy. Couldn't work yesterday or hardley get out of bed. Hope you don't get this...

I did set up the new challenge. for some reason, it didn't take the "Q4 name I put on it...hmmm. So it's just 'here's the template..."

Deb, I'll post the finals in a couple of days. We did have a challenge of posting all that stuff, but as I recall, it didn't finish out the quarter...Does anyone want to try again? If so, what else do you want on it???

TD, I don't know about handsome on the outside, but you are a 'hottie' on the inside!

CindyT, I set up the new challenge, so let's do this!!

Leslie, how are you doing with your numbers? You were almost to onderland!?

Hi to all our other OWs ! Hope you are all doing well.

Hope you all have fun, but safe plans for the New Year!

current weight: 276.0

286 264.25 242.5 220.75

199

Happy New Year!

Pounds lost: 72.2

0 22.75 45.5 68.25

91

last wi of year today

Pounds lost: 58.2

0 20.25 40.5 60.75

81

happy new year

Pounds lost: 58.2

0 20.25 40.5 60.75

81

I gave in a bought the spark people app. I couldn't get my fit it to sync and I really like having everything in one place. I'm tracking this week...everyday. I have to, its the only way this is going to work.

Syn, I will try o post my final weight by 10:15 CT tomorrow. Otherwise it will be at lunch time.
Also what is the biggest loser challenge and shred challenge you posted about in the daily reminder post? Are those old challenges?
I'm curious...has the team ever tried a challenge with a daily tracking component either food or exercise? Might something like that help to keep everyone more focused and accountable? The weighin thing is great but maybe focusing on the basics would be good for January.

Hope everyone had a great Christmas :-)

Pounds lost: 72.2

0 22.75 45.5 68.25

91

"We hope that you find something here that 'Sparked' you and have interest in joining our wonderful group of OWs! As TD says, "Best of Fortune!""

* No idea who that TD guy is, but I'll bet he's gosh darn handsome. Anyway enough about him.

I'm coming back in3 days. I look forward to a new year and (I presume) a new chatter blog.

I'm psyched for 2014.

Good afternoon Ows.

So how was everyone's Christmas? Mine was pretty good, got to spend some time with my dad's side of the family. Saw my mom on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day. Because of how my sister and her daughters treated us over the past few months we stayed away and it was rather nice. Visited some other relatives I haven't seen in quite a while. It was great.

I haven't been feeling well since Christmas Day night and Boxing Day so I've just been resting. However since I work on Monday I guess it's laundry day and cleaning the kitchen so we can get back to our regular schedule.

I read about a new challenge in January? Count me in. I think I'll need it. I'll have to read it over again but I would love to do this.

Well I guess I better get that laundry started or it will never get done. Have a wonderful day.

Pounds lost: 99.4

0 31.25 62.5 93.75

125

I am feeling better but not out of woods yet.

Have a good day.

Pounds lost: 58.2

0 20.25 40.5 60.75

81

It's Saturday---My w/e plan is work...Clients, clients, clients!

I actually did pretty well over the holiday season. Had my sweets, but cut back on food in general so I could have my holiday cheer! Cut back on the wine also--NONE! That's amazing how just that one thing keeps weight off! Note to self....remember this point!

I will weigh in for this week Monday!

I'm back and ready to get going on that 30 pounds I've put off losing this year!

How about you??

xxoo
Syn

current weight: 276.0

286 264.25 242.5 220.75

199

An OW Reminder...

We are a support group that mostly weighs 200+ pounds (or we once did....), but we are realling working hard to get to “One-der-land” and then stay there once we get there.

Though we have challenges, buddies, and support, Here is our weekly program....

*Daily: Post your A** (accountability) on the Chat Thread (optional)

MONDAY: Post your 24 hour Challenge to yourself. You may also post your weekly goal. Then when you post your *A, you can include how you are doing with your weekly goal!

TUESDAY: List how you did on your 24 hr Challenge?

WEDNESDAY: Non Scale Victory (NSV) Here is where you could share your victory or victories that don't include the number on the scale.

THURSDAY: "Thankful Thursday" Post what are you grateful for...

FRIDAY: *What are you doing for your weekend plans if you want to share? Note: many of us struggle with events; this is where you may want to think about and post what you are doing and how you are planning to handle the food part of your event.

SATURDAY: 1. Weigh in Day for Challenge (see the thread for that) -- You can post your numbers on any day that works for you!
2. Discussion on emotional eating concerns.

We also have Challenges from time to time. Be sure to check under the Challenge Thread to see if you'd like to join in the FUN!

We hope that you find something here that 'Sparked' you and have interest in joining our wonderful group of OWs! As TD says, "Best of Fortune!"


Edited by: SYN-CA at: 12/31/2013 (21:14)

current weight: 276.0

286 264.25 242.5 220.75

199

(sparkling cider for me, please!)
Happy New Year!

current weight: 276.0

286 264.25 242.5 220.75

199

Hi everyone!

Congrats to Cindy T, Pat, and Roe for continuing to post up to the end on our 4th Quarter Challenge! If you all get your last week posted by Monday, we'll post how we all did (I missed the last 3 weeks!).

Now, who is up for a First Quarter Challenge? Any ideas? I am going to set up a new thread for it from January through March (12 or 13 weeks), as it does tend to keep me in line even when I can't get in and post every week. I'm hoping that it works for some of you as well. I also tend to do better with the first quarter.

It's been kinda ill in my little world...we've all had the stomach thing...each just a little different. Wouldn't wish that on anyone!

Hope you all had a lovely Christmas (if you celebrate), and are planning a wonderful New Year! I'll be working. Yup! New Year's Day.

Cheers,
Syn

current weight: 276.0

286 264.25 242.5 220.75

199

Hope everyone had a nice Christmas! Im back to tracking today!

Pounds lost: 72.2

0 22.75 45.5 68.25

91

well up over 200 so now to work to get under again.
I hope everyone had a great christmas

Pounds lost: 58.2

0 20.25 40.5 60.75

81

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Pounds lost: 58.2

0 20.25 40.5 60.75

81

current weight: 276.0

286 264.25 242.5 220.75

199

Merry Christmas Eve to all my OW friends!

I've just been hit from too many directions....I got food poisoning from Carls Jr last week, and my fatigue continues...I was down for the count for a couple of days and still trying to catch up!

I'm still trying to maintain...was hard on the BRATS diet for recovery from above--way too many carbs! GEEZ. Then I got into the Galorade. Felt better, but man does that stuff have some bad numbers. I felt so bad about my numbers, I went into Jenny Craig and started weighing in....still maintaining...not sure how!!!

I'll be thinking about each one of you this holiday and sending you maintenance love!!! I'm so sick of traditional meals, I had Chili for the kids holiday meal on Sunday, and GUMBO for us tomorrow!

May you each be richly blessed this holiday season, and be safe in your travels to family and friends!

Cheers to each of you!
Syn

current weight: 276.0

286 264.25 242.5 220.75

199

Cindy T: Congrats on the new truck. Thanks for the input on myfitnesspal. I haven't played around with it too much yet. I do like that the scanner is right there if I have something from a package. I will have to see how it works with my fitbit. If it can sync right from the phone that would be wonderful but I'm not sure if mine does that or not. Our weather has been wonky and it is back to being pretty cold here. It warmed up for a few days and gave us some ice and slush mess but now it's just cold again. Have a Merry Christmas!

Leslie: Sorry to hear that you repounded. Sounds like you have a good plan in place. Have a Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas Team!

Pounds lost: 72.2

0 22.75 45.5 68.25

91

Merry Christmas

ready for a new beginning yep I am over 200 again.
so right after the Christmas dinners I will begin I will exercise and journal and start using smart goals. I will post it after Christmas.

grandson here till Christmas. going to build a snowman today.

Pounds lost: 58.2

0 20.25 40.5 60.75

81

NEELIXNKES - I use myfitnesspal and I love it. I switched over when I got a new phone and had to pay $4 for the sparkpeople app to add to my phone. I also have a fitbit and my fitbit syncs with myfitnesspal and logs all my exercise. I think you'll like it.

Well can't believe it's only a few days until Christmas. Only managed to lose 2 ounces this week but haven't been able to exercise much. I hurt my foot a couple of weeks ago and find it hard to exercise. Managed 30 minutes last night which was pretty good. The chiropractor I got my foot orthotics from says I have to start wearing them in the house for a few hours and that should help.

So how is everyone else doing? How's your weather. Ours keeps getting cold. Oh well. I guess that's what winter is.

Oh, my boyfriend got us an early Christmas present two weeks ago. We were having problems with our Dodge Journey and when we went in one Saturday for some repairs he ended up talking to a salesperson. In the end we traded in our Journey for a 2014 Doge Ram 1500. OMG, what a gorgeous truck. I don't even mind driving it. I found it a little large at first but it's pretty good now. It's fully loaded except that it has no sunroof or DVD player in the back which we don't need anyhow. Plus we'll be able to buy a holiday trailer and pull it. Yay. Looking forward to that.

Well since it's a busy time of year not sure if I'll make it on again until after Christmas (which we're spending with my dad's brother and his family). If I don't make it on I wish you and your family a wonderful Christmas and hope you get everything your heart dreams of.

Pounds lost: 99.4

0 31.25 62.5 93.75

125

So, my phone died and now I have to pay 3.99 for the sparkpeople app to track my food. I'm going to try myfitnesspal for the time being and see if I like it better at all. If I don't then I will just pony up the money. I had the spark app on my phone for years and it was free. Yes, I'm being cheap

Hope everyone has a wonderful week!

Pounds lost: 72.2

0 22.75 45.5 68.25

91

I'm still shopping too Janeand I failed to mail out cards or packages yet. Whoops. Some of that won't be getting done.

Hope everyone is doing well. I seem to be in a gaining trend so hoping to stop that.

Merry Christmas :-)

Pounds lost: 72.2

0 22.75 45.5 68.25

91

Hello OWs!!

So sorry for being MIA but lots to do and little time. But things are going very well, we are all very happy and it's just so wonderful to be in a good frame of mind. I've been keeping mindless eating at bay and when I eat something that isn't quite as nutritious as I should be eating I know it and love it - enjoy it then stop. That is quite a change for me! Must have been all that prior work - or maybe just scared to eat too much of some things.

So, I'm hoping to keep at it through this next week and get back to good ol' posting, working with you guys and getting myself some new goals.

In case I don't get back on before Christmas,

MERRY CHRISTMAS ONE AND ALL!!

current weight: 253.0

281 250.75 220.5 190.25

160

How can it possibly be Friday already!? I'm still shopping. UGH.

Did anyone happen to see the nutritionist on television yesterday on CBS This Morning who talked about a diet approach where one has a "feast day" every other day? It was interesting. I wonder . . . . . .

I guess my non-scale victory is just weighing myself this week even when I knew it would be bad (very bad) news. I'm committed though, even through the ups and downs.

Have a happy weekend, everyone. Only five days until Christmas!

Hello OW!!

Busy, busy, busy (as usual) but wanted to check in with everyone. I hope everyone is having a great day!!

Non Scale Victory today....hmmm....tough one. I think my shirts feel a bit loose. I'm taking any small victory I can get!!

I hope everyone is having a fabulous week!! Merry Christmas!!


Edited by: ROEANDGO at: 12/19/2013 (01:32)

current weight: 312.0

312 276.5 241 205.5

170

Decided to try to log in from work on break and it isn't blocked so will try to log in each day at lunch. Have a terrific rest of your Tuesday!

Pounds lost: 72.2

0 22.75 45.5 68.25

91

Good Evening OW!!

Jane….when I did my little “lack of Christmas cheer in the stores” vent I didn’t think from the perspective of the retail staff. I definitely feel for them because every store is sooo understaffed and I can tell they are tired. Just so you know….I didn’t go near a store the entire Thanksgiving weekend! I think shopping is getting a little out of hand and I didn’t want to contribute to it. I miss the days where Christmas was more about being with family & friends and less about the abundance of crap you can buy. The good ole days. Oh…and I LOVE pancakes so loved your Saturday post and definitely want the recipe!

Chris….I hate when that happens with timed out posts!! It used to do it to me all the time since I get a little long winded. (Who?....Me?!) Now I type all my responses in a word doc and copy to the link to post. Haven’t lost one since! And yes….God will take care of us. Thanks for the reminder! My husband has told me the same thing and told me to stop stressing. It’s hard for me to NOT be in control. I’m trying!! Love your annual bake day gift idea!! Wonderful!!

Jane….laughed out loud when I read what you said about the pacemaker must weigh 10 pounds!! That’s funny!! And I finally owned up to my actual weight too which was hard since I’m so heavy. The ticker is accurate!! Glad to hear yours is too!!

Deb….I’m having a tough time getting on Spark too this week. Let’s both promise to log on at least once a day this week even if no time to read posts. I think it keeps us accountable. You with me?!

My 24 hour plan is to slow down, exercise and try not to stress. My Mom just flew in this past weekend from Montana and she'll be here until I drive to Iowa (she's driving with me). I am exhausting her and must be exhausting myself and need to CHILL OUT!! Anyway....relaxation is my goal.

Had a busy weekend running errands, buying last minute gifts, wrapping them, picking up my Mom, etc. We managed to do a lot of walking the last couple days which is great for me but not so great for my soon to be 70 year old Mom!! I need to CHILL OUT!! I'm seeing a theme here!!

Have a great week everyone!! Merry Christmas!!


Edited by: ROEANDGO at: 12/17/2013 (00:49)

current weight: 312.0

312 276.5 241 205.5

170

I didn't get on spark much at night this week. I need to work out a routine that will help me do what I need to do. I'm thinking I just need to get up when the alarm goes off in the morning and get on the computer. It doesn't help that DH took part of my laptop powercord and has no idea what he did with it. Nice huh? Hope I don't have any appraisal work until he finds it.

Roe: Praying for a good solution to your situation. Hang in there.

Chris: Glad you have the plan from your Naturapath. I hope you can find the strength to use it during the next few weeks.

Jean: I really hope things are looking up for your daughters and that answers have been found. Praying.

Jane: Yay for pancakes that your DH liked to eat. That recipe sounds wonderfully flexible and not all that more calories than using the Healthy Heart Bisquick recipe that I use for pancakes. Your's probably taste better :)

CindyT: Keep warm and safe during this crazy winter ride. Have you thought about maybe removing your condo from the market temporarily so you don't have to worry about moving in the winter?

Debbi: Hope you are staying warm and not getting too blasted with snow. I know you are a bit further south than I am and it was supposed to be worse there yesterday. Enjoy your holiday time!

Jenny: How's things going?

to everyone else. Have a healthy day and week!

PS: He miraculously found my power cord when I told him I wasn't going to make brunch for him since he lost it.

Pounds lost: 72.2

0 22.75 45.5 68.25

91

Oh my.

Dear Chris! Now why did I think you were a Deb, Debi, Debbie? I see your name plain as day at the bottom of your post. I will chalk this up to old age. (I'm using that more and more lately.)

Later friends.

Dear Scrap . . . that sounds funny, but I'm not sure of your name . . . are you a Debi, Debbie or Deb? Or am I making this up?

We need to buddy up because I have had an awful time since October 1 when I officially lost my mojo. I got a pacemaker that day and had restricted activities for six weeks. Do you know that this device weighs 10 pounds!? Well it must, since that's the amount above my ticker that I weighed after a couple of weeks of lying around luxuriating in my sweetly ticking heart! In truth, it is only the size of two silver dollars stacked upon each other. The 10 pounds was more likely Coca Cola, Halloween candy, and mega bowls of ice cream. Do I sound like a carboholic? Yup.

I have had a good week with the exception of Thursday evening when I went nuts after seeing my adorable grandson perform in a cameo roll as a snowman in the kindergarten Christmas show. Celebrate his cuteness! Eat large amounts! (Why??)

I've made a rash and daring decision this morning. Tomorrow I will weigh in and adjust my ticker. I haven't been 223 since September 30 (before the installation of the "heavy metal"). I love this group since everyone here is fighting or has fought to get under 200 pounds. I think this group has given me permission to go ahead and own up to my actual weight. Thanks, friends, for your honesty and open-sharing.

So . . . to tomorrow and beyond. Big hugs, Buzz Watkins

Good Sunday Morning Ladies!

Well, I am still in the same carb boat I was floating around in last time, but thank goodness the exercise is still good. I visited my naturopath on Tuesday and she gave me a food plan to get me through until Christmas, but I haven't had a chance to get all the prep done yet! I bought the food she suggested and even made the kale and turkey soup for my lunch this week and hard boiled the eggs for snack and egg salad one day, but each day I think "okay, today I'll start" and something comes up. It's the dreaded "all or nothing" mentality again. I must move past that. One glass of wine or a cookie does not mean I should throw the whole kit and kaboodle for the day. I think what I need to do is read back over my journal entries from when I lost the weight to remind myself of the insights I gained and get my motivation back in action. Okay, that's my plan. Hold me to it!

Last week I typed a huge post addressing everyone individually and getting on board with SYNs maintain don't gain plan and then when I hit send it gave me an error message because it had timed out. So frustrating when that happens! It is because I was trying to add to the post in-between teaching kids and took too long. I try to remember to highlight and copy long posts so that I can paste them in again when that happens. Darn it! So please know that last week I did check in one day and fail!

ROE - when I read your post about the houses and the tuition reimbursement the first thing that came to my mind is God will take care of it. Trust in him. Tell him you give up trying to control it and that you trust that He is going to work everything out to your good. He already covered the money part with the new salary, right? Be patient - you want this to happen in God's timing so that it is the right timing. Hand over that stress and just enjoy the holidays knowing that at some point in the near future this will all be finished and you will be settled in to where you are supposed to be.

SYN - how is it going with your maintaining? I'm afraid to look. But, as I said above, I am going to read over my blogs and get some mojo back for maintenance!

JEAN - I am still praying for answers for your DDs and I am praying for you to find time for yourself because you can't give to others if you have nothing left to give. You need time to rejuvinate - so don't allow guilt to stop you from taking time out for yourself - it is necessary so that you can have the strength to do what you need to do with them.

JANE - so glad you are part of our team. You have a lot of wisdom and a good positive attitude. I am happy that your hubby does not need to go back for 6 months! Your pancakes sound wonderful! I have a delicious buttermilk pancake recipe but I am trying to avoid processed foods - especially white flour and white sugar because they make me achy and give me a bloaty belly! However, I splurge a couple of times a year so my hubby can have them.

DEBBI, CINDYT, LESLIE, SAM, DEB - how are you all doing? I hope you are finding time to take care of you during this busy season.

Oh, and ROE - Merry Christmas my friend! I hear what you are saying about the salespeople but I just go right on with my own cheery farewell to them! ha ha!

Well, today is the 2nd Annual Girls Baking Day with my daughter. She got married last year and so I invited her over to bake treats for us to give away as gifts to save money. So we decided to make this an annual tradition! This year we decided to make truffels and fudges. So I better get off of here and get to the grocery store since she will be here at 11. Have a great day! xo

Pounds lost: 43.8

0 21.75 43.5 65.25

87

Just checking in to say HAPPY SATURDAY! I decided that I would make breakfast special to honor the weekend. We have basically the same couple of things all week, so today I changed it up by trying a new recipe for Basic Buttermilk Pancakes. You can make a variety of pancakes with this batter. I made Lemon-Blueberry today. Let me just say, these were the best pancakes I've ever made. Ever. Light, fluffy and loaded with fresh blueberries. Two four-inch pancakes plus 1/4 cup sugar free pancakes syrup and coffee creamer in my coffee for 318 calories. Big yum!

Moments like this help me realize that I can still "splurge" and say within the limits I need to follow to lose weight. The other variations are Pumpkin-Pecan, Cranberry-Orange, PB&J, Banana-Bacon, and Reverse Chocolate Chip. I'm sure the last two are higher calories, but nice for a treat . . . maybe for Christmas morning?

If anyone is interested, I will pass the recipe along. I will do that making a blog post. DRAT! I should have photographed them. They were gorgeous. I used half the batter to make 6 four-inch cakes. I had two. Bob had four! There is so little he has enjoyed eating for the past five months, it was s-w-e-e-t to see him chow down!

Happy weekend, y'all. (That said with a North Florida accent, which is remarkably like a South Georgia accent!!)
Jane

Edited by: JANEWATKINS at: 12/14/2013 (09:42)

Today is "Weekend Plans" day and I'm thrilled to say that not much is planned. Last weekend was a killer. We do have a Christmas open house to go to in Clearwater (about an hour from our town). I plan to hoard my calories and try to rein in my portions at the event. Otherwise, quiet weekend.

My Broncos lost their game last night. I was feeling the urge to snack something fierce about the fourth quarter when it was apparent that they were in the can, but instead I just went to bed. I was definitely feeling like they would lose. They did. Hmmm. Maybe it's because I went to bed. If you are a football fan you've probably seen the commercial that says "It's only crazy if it doesn't work." That is a pun about the rituals that people go into to assure their team wins. I haven't missed one quarter of the Broncos games this year until I caved in last night . . . Maybe it is my fault! oh NO!

Moira, I spent the first two years of my life in Ottumwa. I don't have much in the way of memories except for the huge front lawn on the house we lived in. I do have family there and it is a nice town . . . although it was very "Ladies of the Club" . . . i.e. the wrong and the right sides of town, etc. Hopefully that doesn't exist any more.

Roe, thanks for your kind words. I will put you (or your house?) on my mighty prayer list! We have moved several times (Kansas City to Devner, Denver to Council Bluffs, Council Bluffs to Kansas City, and Kansas City to Florida) so I know a little about this frantic stuff. It is so hard when one is buying a home out of state. It makes everything more complex. So I'm thinking about you and yours.

In response to Roe's vent, I shall vent my holiday wrath in response: My sweet 33-y-o-daughter, who is a single mom to a five year old, works her fanny off as the manager of a retail store. This year's holiday invasion of Thanksgiving was the first blow. Everyone is now pressured to compete, so she had to work on Thanksgiving evening for the first time. We were all hoping-hoping-hoping that shoppers would have the decency to stay away so this wouldn't become a trend and take that holiday away from retail workers. No such luck. The crowds were so big that Black Friday is probably just going to be a memory. I suppose Black Thanksgiving would be an appropriate name since thousands of people will have to sacrifice that day now to corporate greed. I just found out yesterday that the stores and malls will no longer close early here on Christmas Eve, so Stacy will now be working in a shop until 11 p.m. on the 24th. Roe, without discounting your personal rant/vent, perhaps the corporate bigwigs (who do NOT work on those days) have just taken the Merry right out of the workers holidays. Sad, I think. I just wonder if that accounts for the lack of cheery greetings from sales staff.

Happy Weekend to all . . . Jane

I've been so busy that I'm about to go batty!! The only time I get any more is a few minutes before bedtime where I look at Sparks and facebook. That has GOT to change!

Like I said in my post to Syn below, we hit a snag on our relocation. A couple actually. First, we were hoping that since Tom's company announced that they are closing his entire facility in 2014 that they wouldn't make him repay his tuition reimbursement when he put in his notice. No such luck! Anyone putting in their notice (even after the announcement) has to repay. And our portion is about $13,500. We're scrambling around to raise that money. 2nd snag is that we've had 8 showings in a little over 2 weeks and NO OFFERS!! A lot of positive comments but no offers on our house which means we might lose the home in Iowa that we have a contract on (and the $1000 or so in inspections, appraisals, etc that we paid for). Sigh. So....I'm trying to calm don't and switch to Plan B which is hubby in Iowa in a rental and me here in Arizona in the house until it sells. Bye Iowa new home that we love! We reduced the price on our home here and "staged" it more to help someone fall in love with it. Our agent says that people are looking (retirees and foreign investors are big here) but the retirees are holding off until after the 1st of the year to purchase to see how their healthcare is going to be affecting by Obamacare. Anyway....I've been stress eating but trying to turn it all around now.

I hope everyone is staying warm thru the bitter cold! We had record cold here in Arizona....highs in the 40's during the day and lows in the 30's at night which is COLD for the low desert of Arizona. The temps are climbing though.....72 degrees today. I know....don't hate me!!

Today I'm thankful for the job opportunity that came our way. Friends of ours are in the same situation in Denver where he is losing his job with closures in the same company we're in (different location but same situation) and she is a schoolteacher and doesn't make enough money to support them. I'm praying every day for them.

Can I vent real quick before I get to bed? I've been in and out of tons of stores recently....grocery stores, dry cleaners, department stores, etc.....probably about 20 or 25 stores recently. And today I finally had a sales associate wish me a Merry Christmas! A nice little old lady in Bath & Body Works made my day!! All the others didn't say "Happy Holidays", "Have a nice day", "Have a good one" (which I hate, by the way)...nothing! Until today. Is anyone else experiencing this in other parts of the country or just in Phoenix? I haven't experienced that any other place I've lived except here and I've lived in 9 states. Anyway.....I've gone out of my way to say Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays and I don't even get a thank you or anything. I'm starting to get mad! Okay...end of vent.

I hope everyone has a great remainder of the week and a fabulous weekend. I'm going to make an extra effort to get back on track.

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!!

current weight: 312.0

312 276.5 241 205.5

170

Hello OW!!

Jane….I need to get back on track like you did. I need the “jolt”. Great job, by the way! Kept reading thru the posts and read about all the life issues in your life this year. Hugs and tons of prayers to you and your husband!

Jean….I’m so sorry for everything you are going through in your life! I haven’t been around for about 10 days and I had no idea of everything until just now as I’m reading back thru the posts. I just want to reach thru the computer and hug you. I hope as I keep reading that there is some resolution to all the issues going on in your life.

Debbi….I think everyone can relate to being overwhelmed. I’m with you about just getting thru it all and jumping back on board in January.

Hi Leslie!! Merry Christmas to you too! And great job on your latest loss!

Moira…I’m so sorry for the loss of Anne. How sad. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family.

Cindy….it’s tough when members of family are arguing. I hope that you all worked it out and unblocked each other on facebook.

Syn….Yes – I’m definitely looking forward to the snow! I’m a little weird though. I even prefer a lake to a beach too and antique to new. I’m weird like that! And we’ve hit a snag in things. Not going so smooth now.

Chris….Loved your facebook photos of your remodel!! The kitchen looks so nice!

Jane….way to go on meeting your 24 hour challenge this week! Oh…and haven’t heard about the IOWA acronym! Too funny!

Moiri….another person from Iowa?! In another month or so I can say I’m from Iowa too! I haven’t heard of any of the towns you listed but will look them up.

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did you know if you have 4 or more you can start a chapter in your area.

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Jane: you and I are the 47ers, and we just moved to a better site. our gain and there loss

I went to school in Iowa and had my first teaching jobs there. I lived in Dennison, Ottumwa, and
one I cant spell (Lacey Keosaqua) And I spent one summer in Sac City helping with the recovery after a tornado did a direct hit on the town. I loved Iowa, but my home is New England.I need to be near the coast.

Leslie; Great job. I'm a past member of Tops and remember meeting the scale. any loss was great, and a turtle saved face, but too often I had to stand and say I gained. When we moved to Niantic, it was just too far to make the meetings, and there was not another club closer. I went to most of the state and regional award programs. I have to say that I lost a large number of lbs with Tops. And I would finally have become a Kops this year. I might just drive north and rejoin just so I can have that status. It has only taken me 20 some odd years.

Today is Thankful Thursday, I'm thankful for a loving husband who understands me, Two wonderful daughters and their husbands, all of you and the support you offer, and for you Jane, I think we are kindred spirits
Hugs Moira

Edited by: BRIMOIRA at: 12/12/2013 (09:58)

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Good evening, hopefully everyone is staying warm (it's starting to get colder here and we're expecting more snow).

Being doing pretty good with food but I'm unable to exercise right now due to pain in my left foot so I'm taking it easy. I manage to keep up with a little housework but other than that, just resting my foot.

Staying around my calorie range and the weight is coming off. Was hoping to be in onderland by the new year. I probably won't quite make it but hopefully it will be close. Should be in onderland by February I'm hoping. Only have 9 pounds to go I think.

Hope everyone is doing well, I haven't had time to read up on the posts.

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I lost today

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Hello OWs!
Here I am back before anyone else got here! Short night to be sure. Took Bob to cancer surgeon today . . . he goes back in six months. Victory! He sees oncologist tomorrow.

I have now made it two days plus breakfast within my boundaries for healthy eating and weight loss. That is my Wednesday victory. I'm going to try-try-try to add movement today.

Jean, how is everything going? You are certainly carrying a big load and scary stuff at that.

Roe, I lived in Council Bluffs Iowa for four years. If you are looking for snow in Iowa you will NOT be disappointed! Iowans are the dearest, friendliest people. You will enjoy living there, I am sure. (And don't let anyone tell you that IOWA is an acronym for Idiots Out Wandering Around!) (We got teased a lot about that when we moved there in 1993.)

TOPS . . . is your name Leslie? Not sure. But just wanted you to know that I read your goals for 2014. I will post there too but I want to give some thought to what I put down. I really want to set reasonable, achievable goals for myself. (i.e. I will lose 75 pounds by Valentine's Day is not a good one, huh?) So I will try to challenge myself while being realistic and post there some time this week. Thanks for taking the plunge. Sounds like you are in control.

Chris, thanks for the honest post. It challenges me to get back in control. I can't believe how much better I feel already after two days of healthy food . . . and no Coca Cola Classic. That is my downfall . . . and why I eat things that make me feel miserable is the question. (??)

Deb, you and I are at oppostie ends of the work spectrum. I'm trying to figure out what it will feel like to NOT be working. I'm trying hard to find a job, but can't seem to even score interviews. I suppose it is a tough market plus I'm 66! (But don't look a day over 65.)

Syn, I laughed at the snow story. It's all a matter of perspective, huh? I liked your idea of just breaking even at the end of the holidays. That would be a plan. (Better than the original Breaking Bad . . . which is weighing ten points more on January 2.)

Lastly, dear Moira. I'm so happy to see you again. Shall we "can" the prime timers? I leave that up to you. I'm not sure how I landed here, but I suspect I saw something on your page. I was shocked when you posted since there must be about three trillion groups on here. Please advise regarding the 47-ers.

Happy Hump Day, friends.
Jane



Edited by: JANEWATKINS at: 12/11/2013 (11:39)

Just a quick note: I made it! 24 hours yesterday within calorie bounds. My challenge for today was to repeat that . . . and I did! So happy to have two good days in a row. Haven't been able to accomplish that for a while. A long while. A very long while.

I will post a more personal note to all tomorrow. I'm heading to bed after a long day.

Good Tuesday Morning Everybody!

Well, it is snowing like crazy outside today. Yesterday we woke up to all ice - quite beautiful and today it is getting covered in snow - about 2-5" expected. Unfortunately we are not used to it so we basically shut down with anything more than an inch! So I am on day 2 of school snow days.

Yesterday I cleaned my house like a mad woman - only the main level though. We have been doing a mini-remodel on our kitchen so my house was full of saw dust, painting supplies, and everything out of the cabinets and drawers - what a disaster. I am trying to get the tree up and the house decorated in time for my book club on Wednesday. Most of the odds were tossed into the laundry room down in the basement so now today I have to clean that mess and do laundry while I am at it. I would prefer to build a fire and watch movies all afternoon!

My carbs have been out of control. I have a million excuses, but the fact of the matter is that I am the one making the choice to put them in my mouth. I know it is stress, but I will have stress of one kind or another the rest of my life and I have to learn to not turn to food. Sheesh, were is that magic pill when you need it?!

Affirmation Tuesday:

I am not ruled by food - I rule food.
I continue to exercise inspite of my poor food choices.
I have energy and will power to do all things through Christ who strengthens me!

Have a great day ladies XO

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baking cookies and diet pie for tops Christmas party on Wednesday
I am going to watch my eating for rest of year don't want to gain no more.

2014 will be a great year.

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Good Morning OWs!
Jane, I'm so glad you are here, this has been such an active and supportive group. I've belonged for many years, and have been active and inactive several times. It has been the accountability that has helped me shed many of my lbs. We won't look at it as the" Primers" are defunked, rather, that we needed action and and have found it. I'll leave a note on the page let them know where they might find us. We were the only ones who really kept active. Sorry I have not been more supportive during your tough months. I was away traveling, then came back to the wedding plans, and then the 8 weeks of my SIL's slow cancer death. In spite of it all I love you positive attitude.

Jean My prayers are with you. You must be one strong woman to still be able to carry that stress load. My hat is off to you, and we are hear to listen if that helps.

Be back later, got to go now

Hugs Moira

Edited by: BRIMOIRA at: 12/10/2013 (06:08)

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Oh, oh, I almost forgot, I was working in a suburb last Saturday. Everyone was so excited about the 'snow'!! I went to look, and it looked like baby hai. you could hardly see I took a picture and nothing showed up! ha! They know not what it could be...

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HI to all our other OWs out there!

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Hello everyone.

Moira, so sorry to hear you lost your SiL to cancer. Even when it's expected, it's a huge blow to lose a loved one. You and your family will be included in my prayers. Hugs to you..

Jane, my goodness, you've certainly had your challenges! Hats off to you that you've overcome and come out smiling! Keep up that good work!.

Jean, you poor baby! I agree that you need to do something for YOU every week, even if it's going out for a cup of coffee and just sitting to enjoy it for awhile. So good to see you on here...missed you!

Roe, I'm thrilled for you that it's all coming together! I'm shaking my head about your excitement about the snow, though! I hated living in the midwest. I have a good feeling about it for you!

CindyT, good thing you've got that great guy to keep you warm! wink, wink! I't been unseasonably cold here with unexpected freezes. It just doesn't feel as cold as it did in the midwest though...not sure why. Stay warm!

Deb, are you liking the work? Do ou think they will keep you on?

HI Leslie! How's it going?

Hi Debbi, sounds like you have a little handle on things though they are busy. Hope it goes well for you.

Well, life for me continues to be busy. It seems there is always something...tough to get ahead. Just when you think you are...bam! That new things comes up! My new thing was the year went so fast, I didn't send in any extra tax payments! Ugh. I called my accountant today to get the bad news....Good thing I invested in some write offs...

My 24 hour challenge is to continue to NOT gain any weight while going to all these holiday events, business and charity events that are centered around FOOD! I've tried to take out the anxiety of weight gain, and it's working. Is that reverse psychology???

Hope you each are having a good beginning of the week....

current weight: 276.0

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Hello OW!!

Just checking in real quick even though no time to read posts. I've been super busy with showings on our house (8 in a little over 2 weeks), loan paperwork, relocation paperwork, etc. And things keep breaking in our almost sold house so I'm swamped working with repair people and doing organizing for my client to try to pay for everything. I promise to check in very soon and read what everyone is up to. Until then....please know that I'm thinking of everyone and wish everyone well.

24 hour challenge.....to WALK!! Get out there and hit the trail with my dogs!!



Edited by: ROEANDGO at: 12/10/2013 (00:06)

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Moira: Very sorry for your loss.

Jane: I hope today was a good day for you.

Jean: I hope the drs find some answers for both your daughters soon. Hang in there.

Roe: I hope the move preparations are going well.

CindyT: it has been colder than normal here but no where near that cold. Hang in there!

I'm still adjusting to working 40 hours a week. Hopefully it will settle down soon. I'm sure I will get used to it just as they decide my temp assignment is up or something.

Have a healthy Tuesday :-)

Pounds lost: 72.2

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Good evening, I've been MIA for a while, been having some problems with my family interfering in our business. It even got really bad on Facebook where we ended up blocking everyone. Can't believe family would treat us like this. Oh well, after a week, it's better.

Good news is I've managed to lose weight (3.2 lbs) despite all the stress, or maybe because.

We just picked up our new truck tonight too. We traded in our Dodge Journey for a 2014 Dodge Ram 1500 Outdoorsman. The journey kept breaking down or something was always going wrong so we traded it in. So excited, can't wait to start driving it.

Food and exercise are doing really good. Lots of brown rice, protein, veggies and fruit. Exercise is about 30 minutes a day which I find is helping pretty good. Sometimes I do 45 minutes, but depends on how I feel.

How is everyone else doing. Do you have miserable weather like we do? Last Saturday it was -35 in the morning. So glad it's starting to warm up.

Well I guess I'm off for now. Need to clean house as they might be showing the condo tomorrow to prospective buyer. I'm actually hoping we don't sell in winter time, not looking forward to moving.

Have a great evening all.

Pounds lost: 99.4

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Oh my goodness Moira! I never thought I would see you here! I'm just so glad you are back. I have really missed you. So perhaps the Prime Timers are not goners just yet!

So sorry about your sister. We lost both of Bob's sisters within 18 months from cancer. Barb was 62 and Kim just 50. Awful, awful disease. And now Bob is fighting it. Sigh.

Happy Monday to everyone herein assembled! I have to look at my cheat sheet to see what we are supposed to be doing today. My weekly goal is to actually make it one week again. I've been wandering horribly from being healthy and my body is feeling it! I've made it through today, hurrah! My 24 hours challenge will be to have another 24 hours of healthy eating by tomorrow night at 7 p.m.

Have a wonderful week!

sorry to hear about your loss.

take care

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Hi Jane I just messaged you, after visiting the "47 Prime timers" Glad to see you here.

I have been absent for the past month, because my total attention has been focused on nursing my Sister in law Anne. We have lost her to cancer, and it is so sad. I'll be back on line soon.

I thank those of you who sent me support, prayers, and goodies to cheer me.
Thank You.
Hugs Moira




Edited by: BRIMOIRA at: 12/8/2013 (23:39)

current weight: 198.0

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Happy Sunday

Pounds lost: 58.2

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Merry
Christmas

Pounds lost: 58.2

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Jean, thanks for the prayers and healing thoughts. We luxuriate in those!
Debbi, I understand busy, busy, busy . . . since I just retired I'm excited to say that those moments are memories right now! I'm trying to get a job, but it is hard to even get interviewed at this point. I'm not sure if it is my age, my former job (minister), or just the job market. I keep trying and will hold out on being a Walmart greeter as a last resort!
Hope everyone is well. I hosted our local Spark Group last night for a holiday pot luck dinner. It was so much fun! There were nine of us sharing the holiday spirit together. I'm so happy that we have a local group that meets once a month for dinner. Support is a real bonus!

Hi Everyone!

Just a quick check in to say hi and let you know I'm still alive! I just can't keep up with everything right now. Work has been overwhelmingly nuts (but ok). Just a lot of extra time. I'm working on several projects, one for hubby's company to put together a flyer, of course Christmas, working with others on things, church practice and bible study. I'm focused on eating well and keeping active but can't get on the pc a lot.

So, I'll be back full force in the new year but right now can't keep up with the challenges. However, keep me informed of any new ones for the new year - I'm in!

Prayers to everyone for what you are going through, need strength for or just simply want. I think of you often and will get on here again soon.

Love you ladies!!

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Thanks Jane!!! I'll keep you and your hubby in my thoughts and prayers!!!

current weight: 277.0

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Jean,
I'm new to this group so you probably have no "history" with me. I just wanted to say, "HANG IN THERE!" I have had a crazy-crazy year as well. I went into the hospital in April for 10 days with heart arrthymia. I felt fine, but just tired. Got a blood clot in the lung so couldn't complete the cardiac plans. In June my husband was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He had a major awful surgery in July and is still recovering. October 1 I went back in the hospital to get a pacemaker. I'm not tired any more! Thank goodness. The reason I'm doing all this whining on line is just to say, "Hang in there." It does get better. Neither Bob nor I are ever sick or sickly. So we have been completely derailed by all this. Recently we've been saying to ourselves, "Well, I definitely see light at the end of the tunnel and it isn't a freight train!" So, just walk to the light!! (I know. This sounds like a bad line from the Poltergeist movie. "Walk to the light, children . . . .")
Life is so full of challenges; I just wonder why so many appear at the same time!!
Best wishes for your return to healthy eating and movement.
Jane

current weight: 312.0

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170

Hey OW Friends,
I have been out of touch and off line for the past 6 weeks or so... the overwhelming amount of issues took my focus to the back burner. I need to write blog to get my thoughts together but the short and not so sweet: DD1 has a major problem going on with her leg- 12 weeks and approx 8 MDs later we are still trying to figure out what is going on. All we know for sure is her lymph node is huge and seems to be putting major pressure on a very significant amount of nerves in the same area, so she is having major nerve pain in this area. Pain meds around the clock, so she can't drive, can't work and I am helping her survive her college workload (we are sitting together to get through it all)... DD2 major problems going on with her pelvic/ belly... not sure if it hormone regulation, colon spasms, kidney, gall bladder... she has been in major pain for the past 10-12 weeks as well, also on pain meds, and hasn't been able to drive or work... also helping her through her college workload... both have had ER visits and umpteen MD visits.
I have totally lost focus of the day to day... I just go by hour to hour.
DD3 is craving attention and her grades have been dropping... so now I need to get my focus back to her daily on her schoolwork.
In addition to all the above, hubby is still only working part time and just above minimum wage, so our finances are in the red zone once again... they actually just stay there.
I am totally exhausted and have been eating out of control and not exercising. This week I decided I needed to find some time for me... once a week if nothing else.
I've missed you all!!!
Hugs,
Jean

current weight: 277.0

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150

Sooooo glad I weighed yesterday. That got me back on track. (Read: jolt!) Today I was down five (5!) pounds from yesterday. I was pretty sure that would happen since when I go off the chart, I seem to put on a lot of water weight. Salt?? So I'm now three pounds above my pre-Thanksgiving weight. I appreciated the thought that just to stay the same would be a good holiday plan. I would like to lose enough to get into the teens by January 1, but that is probably an unrealistic goal considering the time of year. But I will hold that carrot up in front of my face. (Carrots are healthy, right?)

I did great on my personal challenge yesterday. My goal today is to keep up the same behaviors as yesterday. Perhaps by next Monday I can be down or close to my ticker weight which is 224.

Why-oh-why do I go off on these food tangents? I feel so much better when I eat healthy. I'm not sure why I'm motivated to eat all that stuff, other than that I just love the taste of it all.

Later friends.

Tuesday Affirmations:

3k+ steps are the minimum to health
Health is not found in the vending machine
I am worth the effort


Have a healthy day!

Pounds lost: 72.2

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Had a good first day and for the most part met my 24 hour challenge. I did meet all my goals for the day except for the servings of freggies. I felt slightly awkward at first but then blew it off at lunch with my supervisor and new coworker. They both ordered fries and I got soup instead. I did have bacon on my sandwich though which was why I opted for the soup. I didn't track today because I have no idea what lunch was. I know I didn't really go over by much if at all as I didn't eat much for dinner or during the day. This is definitely going to challenge me to plan my lunches. I will be eating more freggies tomorrow.

Hope everyone had a great Monday!

Pounds lost: 72.2

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Deb, thanks for the kind words. Not sure whether Bob will ever eat normally again or if this is, indeed, his new normal. Fingers-crossed for the "old Bob" . . . but keeping his weight loss off. My previous post was total catharsis! I had no idea how long it was until I posted it, so thanks to anyone who took the time to read it all. I did weigh this morning and was up about 8 pounds. Isn't that hideous! BUT I did weigh. I will probably lose 5 pounds within a couple of days if I can eat healthy.

My 24 hour challenge? Staying honest with myself by eating right all day and getting in 30 minutes of exercise. NOW!! Doesn't sound like much, but it is a real challenge after my past week's indulgences.

Hello Everyone!

Want to get on more this week than last week. Mostly cleaned, cooked, had Thanksgiving at our house, Christmas shopped, cleaned more, b-day party for one of the nieces, and other assorted things. My back was hurting off and on during the weekend so had heat and Alieve for that. Thanksgiving was great.

Hope everyone had a good holiday. I am ready to get back into gear and get some exercise in, journal, keep to my limits and keep a focus on what I really want to do.

I'll have to read back later and get those postings done. Sorry again I've been not getting them done. TTFN!

current weight: 253.0

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Good Morning OW!!

I had a super down weekend....very relaxing (other than 3 showings on our house!). I ate what I wanted, exercised little and just de-stressed. So nice!

Getting ready for possible jury duty today. I have to call at 10:30 am to see if I even need to go in. Fingers crossed that I don't!! So much to do today!! I will check in later, read posts and write a bit more.

24 hour challenge is to WALK!! I joined a walking challenge thru the end of the year and I want to really get into it.

Have a fab day everyone!!

current weight: 312.0

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GOOD MONDAY MORNING TEAM!!

CT: Hope the snow storm wasn't as bad as they predicted. I only have 2 people finished for Christmas. We have several gift cards to get but we also have to figure out if we are exchanging with DH's family or not. I hope to be finished by the 21st.

Jane: That sounds like a very difficult and distressing situation for both you and DH. Will the problems with eating subside for him in the future as the body adjusts or is this his new normal? on tossing the leftovers even after you were planning on eating them.

to everyone else. Hope you had a nice Thanksgiving.

24 Hour Challenge: Just to stay sane and calm today. I start a temp winter job and I'm nervous but I know I have the skills. Its the lack of control over my schedule I don't like so much. However, I need the job so I need to give up control.

Pounds lost: 72.2

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