WOMEN AGES 50+ FOR DECEMBER 2012

Sasha4427

Happy Sunday all, this is going to be a short post. I had a cup of coffee at 6 pm last night so I could keep running around at the Jingle Down Main (finding benches, street light problems, Santa's house blew the circuits, someone forgot to re-arm the security system at the Community Hall after the family movie - you get the idea). To shorten the story, that coffee kept me up until 2:30 AM and then I slept until 9 when the security company phoned that the hall alarm had been set off (Mayor setting up the decorations for the Xmas party tonight). I may need a nap this afternoon. Still have to get the furbabies out for a walk or two, make the eggnog grog and the NA punch for the party, do my hair and nails etc. And to top it all off, it's snowing like crazy. Should make the walks fun anyway. I'm starting to feel like the Grinch here (although I did get all my present wrapping done yesterday and they are all so pretty). Just need to buy all the cheeses and goodies for my future DSIL basket (he's a cheese hound) and make up a basket for my lovely neighbours that do my snowblowing (bless their hearts).

I see that a lot of people are having trouble with the size of this post. I guess all we can do is enjoy the inspirations and respond to which ones touch your heart or mind. I suspect the numbers go up and down depending on the amount of time we all have (or don't have during this busy season).

Glad to hear about the losses, sorry to hear about the child challenges, one word for your love handles Eileen (Spanx - lol), but I hear you about the age appropriateness of clothing.

I took a hint from JaneM's activities and have gone back to knitting. It really keeps my hands busy and out of the snacks. So far have knit a sweater for my daughter (for her dog walking) and have half finished a baby sweater (one of the office women is a new grandma and I'm living vicariously through her). Baby knitting goes so quickly and I love the white and pink and little hearts and bows (yup, it's a girl).

Time to go do the telephone check in with my sisters (yesterday was daughters) and then get busy, time's a-flyin'.

Lila

mazaron

Hello all,

I am delighted to be able to settle down on the couch and spend a Sunday morning with you! :drinker: It has taken me two cups of coffee to get caught up.

The staff party/Christmas Murder Mystery went perfectly last night.:flowerforyou: One of the guests commented that we spent four hours together and didn’t talk about work! That’s pretty good for a staff party. I made some great food & included lots of raw veggies and healthy options. I did indulge in a few Christmas cookies after everyone was gone and I could relax – and they tasted great!

Back on the plan today – my biggest challenge now is to avoid the treats that begin showing up on the staffroom table this time of year. My strategy so far has been to walk in and chat, but not sit down. :noway: I eat my apple standing up - to sit down would be too close to the home-made fudge or other treats!

I put the scale in the cupboard when cleaning up for the party. I like to put away the more personal things when I’m having a party, so the toothbrushes etc. were also out of sight. Must get it back out, though. It’s my mechanical (or is that digital?) conscience.

Wessecg – sorry to hear you’ve been having a tough time at work. Congratulations on the “exactly 160” :flowerforyou:

Deb – fitting in exercise is always a challenge. Your idea of trying to fit things in between classes sounds like a good one. I go straight to the gym after work, I don’t schedule anything else unless I absolutely have to. That way it’s just part of the routine weekday.

DeeDee, glad to hear your thyroid test results are good. A big salad with left over steak on top sounds delish! I hope your Sunday got better and the internet stopped acting up on you.

Polly, what grade do you teach? Sorting out two step equations sounds like the kind of thing I do with grade 7’s.

M, I vote for dinner at the restaurant. A special meal is about the people we’re with, not where we’re eaing, right? Congratulations on the exercise & food routine, it sounds like you are doing it right! I love entertaining too, and it’s the same thing, I don’t tend to eat or drink much until the guests are gone. Then I have to watch myself because I de-compress with leftovers. Last night it was the gingerbread cookies that called my name, but I didn’t go too crazy.


Lila, how was Jingle Down Main? It sounds like a really fun event.

Gail, how’s the clutter looking? I hope you got things back to “streamlined” before you got too bothered by it.

Kathy L. Did you get the Christmas jobs done? I plan to have everything wrapped and ready for shipping tomorrow too but if my DS does not get back to me with her sons' addresses the nephews might have to wait for theirs!

JB, Ah yes, the re-set ticker. :grumble: I have fought that battle too.

About bowling – could a person say that curling is kind of like bowling on ice? The 90 year olds are all better than I am, :noway: so I know how Lin feels. I keep going though, because it’s fun.

Glenda, the food at your MIL’s lodge sounds fantastic, I want to try it! Here’s to quiet moments, spicy tea :drinker: and Christmas lights.

June – Super, duper, special congratulations on making the 60 lb mark. :happy: You have worked hard and you’ll make it through Christmas because you know how it’s done.

Kate, I would worry too if my bus driver had to use a map. Sheesh!

Off to get ready for DH's choir's annual Christmas music concert. He'll be up there singing his heart out and I'll be in the audience thinking how lucky I am to be married to such a sweet guy.

Hasta pronto,

Nancy

December goals:
1: New Rules of Lifting 3x a week while I am at home.
2: 30-60 minutes of exercise every day when I am at the parent's place for the holiday. Get DD to workout with me.
3: Up at 6:15 every weekday, check into the quiet place inside me when life gets frantic.
4: Make a food plan for parties and special events.

mazaron

Ok, Lila, I said "Jingle Down Main" sounds like a really fun event, and it probably is, but perhaps not for the person responsible for organizing it! :noway: Lights out, security systems on when they should be off and off when they should be on. Sheesh. At least it wasn't raining.

It sounds like your major events will be over soon, though, and you can join Glenda and me with a cup of spicy tea and a quiet moment in the Christmas lights.

Take a deep breath...

Nancy

Katla49

Regarding the many posts on this forum - I have been on and off it for the last 3 years. Sometimes there are many posts and sometimes not. I love reading them and have long determined I can't respond to everyone individually. Yet I love it when people do and I see my name!! So, kudos to those who do respond to individuals; and to those who don't: guilt trips get us nowhere, so let it go. Guilt is likely one of the reasons why we gain weight!

Rebel

I'm fairly new, and have not responded to everyone because I often can't think of anything to say. I'll respond when I can, and hope that I don't offend others by not responding to everything.

kathyszoo

Hi All,

I see I have lots of pages to go back and catch up with! Fighting some sinus problems and this dreary rainy weather isn't helping but my cup of chocolate Chai tea seemed to perk me up! Got an early Christmas present-a 5-in-1 wooden entertainment center but had to return it because CD player didn't work. Then the replacement one seemed to have problems too, but finally got it working! Pleasantly surprised by how well the sound is with small speakers! Got tearly eyed listening to Bing sing Christmas carols, with memories of my parents from years gone by! But, I inherited most of the vinyl albums years go,so looking forward to more memories now that I have something to listen to them on!
Have a feeling that cleaning and decorating will be more fun listening to music! Also, got our tree which I now have to go make a spot for to put it up! Sending positive thoughts to those of us here who are struggling and hope everyone has a chance to carve out new beautiful memories this season!!

Kathy:flowerforyou:

14again

Well, we got about a foot of snow here today so far, so my exercise has been shoveling the drive, over and over again. It's still coming down pretty heavily. Besides the exercise, the other advantage is that my husband (is that what a DH is?) decided to eat at home today instead of braving the roads to go to the all-you-can-eat buffet. So my motivation will not be challenged and I might be able to lose another pound this week. Another party on Friday, but now that I am logging every bite of food (almost), I find myself really making much better choices. I am so glad I found this site!
Pat

LindaS175

Good Sunday Lovely Ladies,:flowerforyou:

I have just read up to page 7 of the blog.So,my comments maybe a little late! I am getting the "bug" that my DD#2 had this last week. I will not let it stop me though.:drinker:

I finish my last PT this next week. I have 2 wrist splints for the carpal tunnel.I got my ergo eval for my home office finally! Waiting to see a hand MD.:bigsmile:
I have qualified for state disability. Now- show me the money! I will call tomorrow am and maybe get an answer as to when I will see some green paper. Cant do any shopping until this arrives.:ohwell:
This has taken me a few hours to write. My DD#1 is wanting the computer now,so time to give it up!:sad:

WELCOME TO ALL THE NEW LADIES .I will finish reading and post a little later tonight. Congrats to all the losers:drinker: Be aware and make food choices that are nutritious for your body and wont ruin your net loss for the week! :bigsmile: :bigsmile: Hugs-Linda-Sundance

Juneboone-:flowerforyou: Wow, congrats on 60lbs lost! You just motivated me today. You have a good attitude about the journey. I am on the same path as you. My first goal is to lose 136lbs and then see about the last 20-30 lbs.

Kate-:flowerforyou: I love my visit to your house. I think I would not be able to move at all! The cold affects ones joints. You must be one tough cookie to survive in that weather. I love the descriptive story. I picture myself looking like the Midas man due to the layers of clothes that I would have to wear. I would love to see the northern lights as an adult. I saw them as a child when we lived in Alaska, but I don’t have memory of them now. I think I would rather visit in the summer!

LinC:flowerforyou: -I love your attitude! Throw them out to the wind! LOVE IT!

Lin:flowerforyou: -Linder4866,I am just catching up on reading the posts! Congrats on being down 3 lbs, you are dedicated to a healthier you! Thanks for the motivation!!

Robin Bodi and Ritter,:flowerforyou: 4 hours on the dreadmill! That is amazing. Now, all you need is 30mins a day to make a difference!

M-:flowerforyou: have a great time in Tahoe!

Yardtigress:flowerforyou: - good to see you back on the blog!

Glendalight-:flowerforyou: survive this month! You can do it! Good to see your smiling face!

Liz-:flowerforyou: did you like the twilight movie? I still need to see part one. Lol I did enjoy the books!

Cheryl-:flowerforyou: 7 horses, you are so lucky to have that many. My DD#1 has wanted to take riding lessons. They cheapest ones here are$30.00/hour!

Barbie:flowerforyou: ,I agree with you about 1200 calories and fueling one’s body to keep it running efficiently!

Lila:flowerforyou: -Happy that you have all the presents wrapped and sent. I have not even started yet!

Amanda:flowerforyou: -hope your bruises are almost gone and your body is feeling better. Glad you had a lovely time in Germany!

Carolyn:flowerforyou: , congrats on the DL weight. I would look unhealthy if I got to my DL weight. Happy Dance for you!

Katla49:flowerforyou: -hope DH is better, and the wedding is lovely!

BJ:flowerforyou: -Congats on the loss of your bat wings! Someone else on the blog calls them angel wings!

Lynn:flowerforyou: -my heart broke when you told us about your lovely horse. She is blessed to have you as the owner!

To be continued! Have a nutritious self loving day! Linda sundance

housegirl2

A bit of a set back - temporary hopefully- and my own fault for bad food choice. Had finally started losing again with my plan in place- yesterday on a whim bought one of those "fast and ready" pepperoni Little Cesar pizzas and promptly ate 3 pieces. I just wanted that taste in my mouth! Since the serving size is one slice - what was I thinking?! While I didn't go over my calories for the day- def went over sodium, fats etc and there's left overs to eat my wight went up by 3+ lbs. I'm sure its the sodium intake so will wait a couple of days before I get really concerned but a lesson.

I've added a goal of getting my daughter to start using my fitness pal. She gained the Freshman 10, then the sophomore 10 and then the... you get it. She graduated in the fall and started her first post college job and I think she is around too many food and drink bad choices and feels she must participate and she really needs to get started on a healthier path.

barbiecat

:flowerforyou: DeeDee, our next line dance performance is Monday afternoon. We did only five dances Friday Night but the performance on Monday at an Assisted Living place will be 12 dances.

:flowerforyou: Amanda, I don’t reply to everyone anymore but I love reading the posts. I gave up alcohol awhile ago after it caused me too many problems……I applaud your three years of abstinence.

:flowerforyou: Robin, I keep a piece of paper next to my computer where I write down what page day and time I left off on my reading so I can start where I left off later……sometimes I get a few days behind....and most days I don't respond individually

:flowerforyou: Eileen, I’ve had no luck finding a dress in years……the more weight I lose, the colder I get, and since I’m pretty flat chested all the dresses with the plunging necklines won’t work for me anyway…fortunately I live a simple life and don’t necessarily need a dress….I wore nice slacks and a nice wool sweater (with long underwear underneath) to the big dinner I went to at Thanksgiving.

:flowerforyou: Michele, when I go to BYOB parties, I bring bottled water and drink from the bottles so I’m sure that I have my own water and don’t accidentally pick up someone else’s drink.

:flowerforyou: Cinflo, you can live on 1200 calories a day if you get lots of exercise to allow you more calories to eat and pay careful attention to what you eat so you don’t waste your calories of food with little nutrition and lots of calories.

:flowerforyou: Nancy from Tennessee, get a copy of “Strong Women Stay Young” for some great info on workouts that won’t hurt your knees and walk a lot---get a pedometer and challenge yourself to more steps every day.

:flowerforyou: Jane, isn’t it great to make something for someone who really appreciates your efforts.

:flowerforyou: Junerbooner, some days I keep up with the thread and some days I don’t…..it helps that we don’t celebrate Christmas so I don’t have a million things to do for the holiday, and I’m retired so I don’t go to a job every, and I’m not much of a housekeeper so that frees a bit of time…..congrats on your success so far and just take it one day at a time and don’t miss any opportunity to be physically active.

:flowerforyou: Lila, knitting is one of the things that keeps me calm and focused……I knit wool hats and mittens for children in Afghanastan.

:flowerforyou: Nancy, I think curling is a mixture of bowling and bocce on ice.

:flowerforyou: Pat, shoveling snow is great exercise……last year when it snowed the first time, our snow shovel broke and we drove to town and bought “his and hers” snow shovels so Jake and I could shovel at the same time……so far we’ve had no snow this year....where do you live? Do you get a lot of snow?

:flowerforyou: LindaSundance, I wear long underwear, turtlenecks and sweatshirts, and wool socks from October to May and it’s not nearly as cold here as it is where Kate live.

:flowerforyou: Housegirl, the last time I had pizza I was aware that I kept eating more and more because there was so little nutrition in a single slice that it was only slightly better than eating cardboard with a few goodies on top…..I feel much better when I eat something healthy.

:noway: :grumble: :explode: :laugh: In keeping with one of my happiness commandments

---

"It is what it is"

---

not only do we have issues with the computer and the recumbent bike but the faucet in the kitchen (it came with the house looks like it was installed by a clueless amateur) is getting worse and there's a leak under the sink so we have the plumber coming on Tuesday….we have just tackled them one at a time without handwringing or complaint or blaming each other.

:flowerforyou: we had more firewood delivered today and it fits well enough in the garage that both vehicles will still fit......we'll be toasty warm all winter, even if the power goes out.

:flowerforyou: I had an "eating" dream last night with many plates of burritos and in the dream I kept thinking that I'd have to confess all that eating to all of you and log it on my food diary. I was so happy to wake up and find that it wasn’t true.

Barbie from NW Washington

14again

I live in Minnesota. Although most winters are usually snowy and cold, last winter unusually warm and dry. We had a brown Christmas and my kids who came home from out of state were very disappointed. Now this year, we will have plenty of snow and they are going sailing in the Caribbean :laugh: I just ordered them a bunch of books from Amazon for their Christmas presents, and I had a lot of fun browsing through all the sailing and snorkeling books. I sure wish I was going with them!

walker54

@housegirl2 -- My sympathies on your pizza experience. I was craving pizza last week, and since we had a leaky kitchen sink (water gushing out from under the cupboard doors!), I ordered a pizza. I ate 3 pieces and was so disappointed it did not live up to what I had been imagining. Took me all week to flush my system. Lesson learned, I hope.

@ Amanda -- I understand that our posts are so long. I couldn't keep up either, once school got rolling. I'll check in when I can since I still need inspiration and encouragement. But you sound like you are on solid ground, so I hope you'll keep in touch with us through your 50+ BFFs. I was happy to hear your dad didn't have "C", and hope his health will improve with good care. Enjoy your friend's visit!

@Junebooner -- Three cheers for your 60# loss. You are more than one-third of the way toward your goal. Are you doing the happy dance? Do it again! :bigsmile:

@Nancy -- I teach 7th and 8th grade math to ESL students. I'm an ESL teacher, and I"m teaming with a Math teacher for all my classes this year. It's my first year in middle school after 6 years in elementary. My partner is an excellent teacher but she needs to be in control of everything, and so that makes for a difficult partnership. I'm really struggling with her and with the school climate. The schedule is a little better than elementary school, but the other teachers aren't very friendly so it's not as much fun. I'm going to the holiday party next weekend and I'm dreading it, but I'll go and smile and avoid the dessert table. If it's awful I can leave, right? lol

@Lila -- Jingle Down Main sounds like it was a success. Loved hearing that the mayor was putting up decorations!

@Meg -- Sorry to hear about DD. Keeping you and DH in my thoughts and prayers. It's not easy being a parent, is it? Especially when dealing with kids who can't understand the basic concept of responsibility. My DS napped in the chair all afternoon. He was scheduled to participate in a Living Nativity at his school this evening. We live less than a mile from his school so I woke him up and told him he needed to walk there since I was busy and couldn't take him. He left in a huff, grumbling and whining because it was drizzling outside. Was I mean? I'm thinking a healthy 16-year-old boy should be able to walk less than a mile, even if it's drizzling out. He has a jacket!:grumble: (Wonder where he learned that grumbling.... )

@ Pat -- I don't envy you your snow. Shoveling IS good exercise though. When I was a kid we lived in Michigan, Indiana and Illinois where we had a lot of snow and I remember shoveling after school to clear the driveway before my dad got home. I'm grateful I don't have to shovel that often here in Virginia, although I do look forward to the first snowfall every winter. So far this year, no snow.

Put up our tree yesterday, and I started shopping this weekend. I need to wrap packages to mail this week. Didn't get the grocery shopping done or my weekly menus. Uh-oh. Most of the laundry is done, so at least I won't be naked this week! :laugh:

Time to fix some supper before my Living Nativity angel gets home. Keep logging your food, girls, and drink your waters. Keep you eye on your goals, and keep smiling. You're doing it, one pound at a time.

Polly

beckyschanging

Hello Ladies, I hope everyone sleeps well tonight! I hope I sleep well tonight.

Re: dog talk...Thanks Linda! I am really thinking it might be time to get a new pup. I just have to wait for summer so I will have time off to train it! ( I'm a school teacher). Maybe. Your reasons are the same reasons we were thinking about getting a new one. This dog has just been sooooooo wonderful. I am afraid to get another dog and not have it turn out. I am very conflicted! Thanks for your input. :ohwell:

I have GOT to weigh in tomorrow. I haven't weighed in a month so I have NO idea if I am up or down. I am glad to be on a thread that has so much activity. I know it's a lot, but this is very inspriational.

Laura80111

Good Sunday Evenin:flowerforyou:

Just skimmed the posts, have to work on the Christmas Card so no time to send messages. Congrats to those that are maintaining this holiday season and welcome to al the newbies:flowerforyou:

Made a pot of Chicken Veggie Soup as hubby has a sore throat, hoping it does the trick.

Sounds like everyone is busy, its cold here today only about 20 so I've stayed inside and kept busy in the kitchen. I did finish all the candy yesterday but I pretty much puttered about today.

Have a great evening and I will check in tomorrow.

Laura80111:happy:

PS Amanda I do understand not being able to comment to everyone...it does take quite a bit of time:drinker:

barbiecat

djhobs

Sunday night, already?? The weekend went too fast. Last night dh and I turned off the Tv and computers and listened to music...what a delightful evening and gave us time to regroup. Today we went to the SPCA and adopted a kitten...oh my...he may be more than we bargained for...but very cute and energetic and playful...although he is currently sleeping..sshh!!

My exercise this week stayed on schedule butdid not get any kettlebells done...problem with the early alarm a couple of mornings and insomnia issues with another morning...oh well there is always next week..fresh start. The no carbs with dinner seems to be going ok..I don't seem to crave the sweets after dinner either ..interesting...will see if this is a sustainable change for me. I am noticing my energy level a little sluggish but not sure if that is from the carb change or the time of year or the changes happening/stress at work...will keep it going through December and see.

The meet and greet with the new company went well. The staff in the new office was very welcoming and the big bosses were also very friendly. The new company has been one of our competitors for years so I have never had a good opinion of this group...I am being pleasantly surprised that perhaps my opinion was unfounded ...of course time will tell and in the big picture it IS where I will be working and it will be better to put aside my preconceptions and open my mind...perhaps I should read The Happiness Project before 1/2/13!!?

Have a great evening everyone! Hugs and high fives..one day at a time!

Jen

Ps I am not good at individual responses, but have found such great support and community with this group

Gardengail

Took a cue from someone here and while talking to my sister on the phone this afternoon I paced around the house. We hadn't talked in quite a while and before I knew it 75 minutes were gone and as we had a nice visit I also got in a bit of exercise.

Also can't recall who said they did push ups using the grab bars in the handicapped bathroom stall at work, but I have been following your lead. On Friday I was able to 10-15 per trip. Thanks! They add up over the course of the day.

Last night was DH's staff Christmas party, combined with a 'bon voyage' theme for a young man in their group that is going to Marine Corps boot camp. DH started with this company in August so I hadn't really met anyone prior. It was a lovely evening and I felt immediately at home. There was lots of laughter and kindness. We plan to have something at our house for the group in the spring.

My mammogram went fine and I don't have to go back for a year. I've felt a bit tender, but can't determine if it is from the procedure or the push ups.

Well, have to get things set for the coming week. Hope you have a great night!

Gail

LindaS175

Hi lovely ladies ,
I am not feeling well so I was able to read all the posts ! I am now caught up! It took me about 4 hour to read all the posts .
I am doing this From my iPhone so I have no idea how this will turn out.
Meg- you and DH have nerves of steel,along with kindness and compassion. MaybeDD#1,could find a group home to live in. Like a board and care. She could still work , she just wouldn't have to cook! She would just have her own room to care for. I don't know if one has to have a diagnosed disability to live in one, but sounds like a perfect fit for her ability?

Jb did you send your bug down here? I hope you are feeling better now or soon!

I can't look back at the posts, I want to wish everyone health, and good nutrition during the next couple of weeks.
Keep striving to do and be the best you can be!

Hugs and blessings to all!
Linda- Sundance

exermom

cinflo - welcome and congrats on the great loss.

Nancy - do you have access to a gym? Water exercises are great and very little to no impact.

suebdew - that's wonderful that you didn't have the sunday but gave it away after just one little bite. Isn't it amazing how our tastes change? We're supposed to go to the Newcomers holiday party. I just know that the people who are supposed to bring the desserts are going to bring things like cakes, brownies, and cookies. I'm going to take an orange and a pear with me, just in case there isn't anything else. I've really gotten to where those things don't entice me at all, they actually turn me off.

DeeDee - the Wii said that I'm up 2# today, too. But I know why, I made those snickerdoodles yesterday and HAD to have some of the dough. I made butterscotch spice cookies to take to my hairdresser. I'm going Monday and I usually take them something. AhhHaa...someone else that I can give some of those Dove candies to! And that I did. I only have two more bags left. Vince usually gets me a bag for my stocking and I asked him this a.m. not to get them for me. I do have these miniwhisks on my wish list at Amazon, but he is trying not to get the inexpensive items so that the kids can get those for me. Hey, I can use a new egg clicer, I'll mention that to him. They aren't real expensive, but I don't have it on my wish list. So sorry you had such a bad start to your day. ell, the positive is that it can only get better.....

After making those cookies, I also made brownies for Christmas Eve and just now put them in the freezer. How I wish I had a larger freezer!!!

Did 15 minutes of jump rope, then 30 min of hula hoop on the Wii, then another 15 min of jump rope. Figure I need to burn extra calories since we're going to have that party tonight. Tomorrow I'll do some yoga and then take the extremepump class.

Welcome to everyone new, too many to mention

Meg - glad you liked the pumpkin spice recipe. It is easy and tasty (and low cal, too), isn't it?

I need to get boxes for Christmas items that I've bought. Why don't I have the ambition to do it? Mayabe that should be tomorrow's task. Oh, that's right, I've taken the butter out to soften so I can make chocolate chip cookies for Christmas tomorrow. After the cookies are made, I really need to push myself to do it. Then, hopefully, Vince will help start with the wrapping. It worked quite well last year, both of us wrapped and got it all done in one day. I really don't like putting things off until the last minute, he works well under pressure, I cave under pressure. But I really need to get the boxes out. Wish me luck for tomorrow that I don't find something else that needs to be done.

I had a hot chocolate with one of the coffee mate things in it (only something like 20 calories) and a scoop of protein powder before we left for the holiday party. That really helps to keep me filled up. I didn't have the orange or the pear that I brought with me but just had a York peppermint patty for dessert. I'm just not much of a dessert person any more. That is, unless it's fruit!!!

katla - I don't think anyone is offended if you don't respond to them individually. I know that I don't respond to every person, sometimes I get interrupted and then start reading a completely different post. You're just fine in my book

This friday is the open house for a friend and then Sat. we're supposed to go to a dinner/dance at another friend's Moose lodge. Is anyone a member of a Moose lodget? Is there smoking in them?

Oh no, I' thinking right now that I'll give the soup kitchen the remainder of the seafood salad. I need to get the remainder of the donations together and print out the list of every item that I've donated during the year. That takes a while. See...I'm already thinking of something else to do instead of finding those boxes.

housefgirl - hope your daughter joined MFP. Hey, my daughter is on it, she asked me a while ago if I'd heard of it! Someone at her work mentioned it to her.

barbie - I write "Page xxx" in a document in the notepad. when I post, I post everything but that. This way I know that I left off at page xxx right after my post (did I make any sense to you?) I'm sort-of getting to where empty calories don't appeal to me. Desserts (except for fruit) don't appeal to me, neither does pizza or pasta. I'm trying, I really am.

Jen - tell us more about that kitten!

Linda Sundance - hope you feel better fast!

Here's hoping everyone has a great evening.

Michele

exermom

Sorry for the typos, I accidentally hit "post reply" before I proofread.

Michele

genealace

Just marking my spot so I can find the thread tomorrow. Been away for a week of vacation. Back to cold and snow and freezing rain forecast for overnight.

DeeDee2211

Good morning beautiful ladies:flowerforyou:

Katla I don`t think anyone is offended, it takes a lot of time to respond to everyone, sometimes I have the time, sometimes I don`t! I do enjoy reading about what`s going on with everyone though!

Barbie I just laughed at your food dream:laugh: , I`ve never had a food dream, thank goodness, I would probably gain weight from the dream:noway: :laugh: ! Hope you get all those annoying things repaired soon!!! Also, only 5 dances, that sounds like a lot to me and 12 coming up:noway: , I applaude you!!!!

Michele So your Wii wasn`t very nice to you, must be something in the air ! Is a Moose Lodge a private club? If so, they probably have their own smoking rules. You`re putting off finding boxes, I`m putting off wrapping presents:grumble: !

Becky Glad you got your run in with your fur boy!!! Barbie has such good advice!!!!

Linda Hope you`re feeling better:flowerforyou: !!!!

Well I have no more time this morning! Hope you all have a fabulous fun Monday!!! Drink your water:drinker: :drinker: :drinker: and log your food!!!!

Hugs,
DeeDee

carojrrn

Morning to all!

It's a dreary, foggy (Froggy) Monday here and I must say it is fitting weather for my mood. I allowed myself to have a pity party towards the end of the week and had a few black smiley days...First holiday party I attended and I admit to not caring about the food intake. While I did not gorge myself I sure did eat way too many carbs and calories. To top it off no exercise for three days... Sooooo yesterday I spent the day in the kitchen cooking and preparing food for the week so I will be ready. I am pretty sure I got bored with the meals last week and had no back ups which contributed to my lah-dee-dah attitude. Today I have black bean soup for lunch and a turkey italian sausage pepper dinner. I made my pumpkin custards with Truvia and they were ok. Not sure if I used enough and/or the right type. I did my kettlebell routine-there is a you tube beginner workout for 33 mins-yesterday and my Zumba ab routine.... Thanks for letting me vent. I know we all have these spells so I plan to move forward!

Welcome to all the new ladies! Yes this thread is large, but it is also very inspiring and motivating! Just knowing so many of us are living the same daily struggles validates my feelings. I love to read and share in each others victories!!!!

My Monday message- Love and accept yourself; give to others but remember to take care of YOU!!!

Carolyn

mazaron

Oh Barbie, a food dream! :noway:

DH's Christmas Concert with the community choir was beautiful. They ended with Handel's Messiah, everyone stood up and many of the audience sang along. Just lovely. It was the 26th year in a row for the concert (DH has been singing with them for about 10 years). It's a kick-off for the season for me. Now I just have to get the parcels to the out of town sisters mailed and I will be able to relax and enjoy the twinkle lights.

I'm taking the left-overs from the staff party to work today. Better them than me when it comes to gingerbread cookies.

What's on the schedule for my students today? Hmmm? Circle graphs. Identifying ways that author's can change our thinking. French "winter words". Pronouns. Christmas concert practice. :grumble: Not very inspiring. I need to think of a fun activity to keep us sparked up for the next two weeks.

Hi ho, time to get J'boy out of bed and begin the week.

To quote our friend Barbie, "Plan what you eat, eat what you plan." I'll be at the gym to do a New Rules of Lifting (adapted) workout this afternoon. What's on your exercise menu? Have a great day.

See you tomorrow,

Nancy

mwheatcraft54

Good morning, everyone! It sounds like the weekend was a mixed bag with some illnesses and grumpy people, but I hope the holiday spirit is presiding over all!

Euchre was a hit – the food was terrific although I rarely eat much of it, and DH and I even managed to get everything prepared and the house cleaned and still sneak in a walk before the party so we felt we had some wiggle room with the calories lol :laugh:. We made candy-cane martinis for the cocktail of the evening – equal parts vanilla vodka, crème de cocoa and half-part peppermint schnapps. They were absolutely delicious – I haven’t drank hard alcohol in forever but had one to try it out. It’s a nice way to loosen up the guests lol. My pumpkin cheesecake was delicious, and while the chocolate/caramel/macadamia nut tart looked pretty and was good, the caramel was too hard. The recipe called for cooking the caramel again after mixing in the cream and butter – I won’t do that next time. Anyway, cards were fun, everyone seemed in a festive mood, and BIL was only mildly annoying. At midnight we stopped to sing happy birthday to my sister (and made her cry a little), and the party broke up shortly after.

I had a lot of dishes to do in the morning (I quit using disposable stuff some time back, trying to be a little green), but I just took it a sink-ful at a time and got them done early. Then DH and I went to pick up my sister and BIL to take them wine tasting, and that was kind of the beginning and end of the day – DH and BIL together = disaster. They seemed bent on partying like it’s 1999. We went to the winery – that was so-so but a little festive. Then we went to a sports bar to watch some football and get a bite to eat. I had part of an order of fried mushrooms – not too good, but I was also the DD so just had water. We wound up staying there all afternoon, then met their daughters at a Mexican restaurant for dinner – more bad food choices, and the other “adults” were in fine form ahem. DH was especially charming. I just took everyone home after dinner and put him to bed with a football game. And to pay me back for my hard work and kindness over the weekend, the scale was up THREE POUNDS this morning. Grrr. Oh, well, water and healthy eating again.

We have fog here today too. Actually it’s been foggy and dreary all weekend. However, my house is cozy and decorated and clean (yay for having a party!) so I’m going to stay in and enjoy it. I have yoga on tap for today – didn’t do it first thing because my extension cord was “borrowed” over the weekend, but I’ll put that back together and get after it for lunch, and I’ll do my squats for the squat-a-thon, then I’ll make a yummy soup for tonight. We were supposed to go to Longwood but I think we’re going to scrap that (see generally, dreary weather).

I hope everyone has a wonderful day – I’m taking today at its word and using it as a new week beginning.

Cheers,

M.

Yardtigress

Bump

bjmcq

Good Monday Morning,

The weather has turned cold and wet....but we missed the ice storm yesterday, thank goodness....so it is still green here in SWO.
I have been out of town, and upon returning, can barely catch up with all the activity here....

I think that resetting my food and body health goals allows me to reset other goals for work and life.....let me know if you think these two activities are strongly related....when you feel successful in one area, it is easier to get the confidence to tackle life...:bigsmile:

There are a great deal of women in this "room" who stay on track and are focused on enjoying every moment of every day, and I love the inspiration....and although I don't knit, I understand the desire to remain productive and engaged, even during the relaxing hours. When I finish the marking and the writing, I hope to sit and hand sew new drapes and new table clothes...yes, hand sew.:laugh:

I need to check in on my December goals, and rework them to fit my other new commitments...so staying flexible and accomplishing what I can is better than giving up...and this is the group that creates commitment. :flowerforyou:
so :drinker: , love reading about your lives and your day by day ideas and strategies!

My plan is to eat clean all the way up to Christmas morning....I will have a rich breakfast ( I am preparing it for others), and yet try to avoid too many rich carbs; since I am not a great admirer of turkey dinners, will eat that very moderately. So with that settled, I will enjoy the social outings without worrying about the food; I always use a protein drink before hand...so a salad is enough to heep me on track at a restaurant.

Life is going to be mentally challenging from here to the 20th..:grumble: finish marking journals, exams and a major paper..so good luck to everyone, hope we all make it through to the holidays!

wessecg

Darn. I had a long one where I actually responded to individuals, then closed without posting :sad:

Anyway, I on self destruct mode. A Christmas party, 3 holiday lunches, a bad day, a poker party and eating badly again yesterday. Geez. Ok, I am back. Really I am. At least I've faithfully logged the good the bad and the ugly!!

We picked up my daughter's new horse yesterday, and talk about someone who needs weight loss - he has it cornered. In fact, in my few hours of owning him I have had many many folks tell me that it is highly likely that he is insulin resistant. So we will be beginning a weight loss regime for him. Perhaps I should log his calories!!:laugh:

Sundance - riding lessons here are between $30 and $45 per half hour. I personally give a 1 minute tutorial when folks ride my horses - kick or click to get moving, kick or click to go fast, pull on the reins to stop. If you need more than that then you need a more sophisticated horse than any of mine are

Well, back to work. I hope I eat well today - my belly is objecting to the bad stuff I've been putting into it.

Laura80111

It's a cold but sunny :glasses: Monday,

Only a few minutes and then i need to get moving on to the piles.

Weekend was busy with plenty of cooking and now we are ready for another week. Exercise didn't happen like I'd have wanted or planned but being on my feet in the kitchen has to count for something:blushing:

To those of you that have had holiday parties, lunches, dinners I'm impressed with the will power and discipline:drinker: Hoping I can be as good. I did some tasting of my candy and so far it doesn't call to me ... that and it's in the frig in the garage ...so out of sight out of mind

This will be the week that we change over our accounting program here at work so I may not be on here very much but will try to keep up with the reading.

Have a good day. Let's keep up our drinking (of water :drinker: ), logging that food and let's keep moving.

Laura80111

barbiecat

:flowerforyou: :laugh: Continuing with my happiness commandment “It is what it is”…….Jake bought the new parts for the ailing computer and called the computer guy who said that he could be here at 10 AM……the plumber called and said that he could come at 10 AM…..I gave up my plan to fix potato latkes before going to dance at 12:45…I joked that the only thing that would make the day crazier would be the arrival of the replacement recumbent bike……when Jake walked the plumber out to his truck he found that UPS had delivered the recumbent bike so now while I go off to dance, Jake can put the new bike together and figure out what to do with the broken one.

Barbie from NW Washington

urbestlife32

I am also new to the site.... 52 years young. I truly enjoyed the remarks about not expecting recognition. I have finally realized I am the only one who will pat myself on the back for all the hard work... It seems like when you are excited about your goals and accomplishments.... there are people who get more moody and unsupportive. Dont understand it...but really careless at this point.

My goals for December are to continue with exercising five times a week for 40 minutes and ride my bike outdoors two days a week. And definitely keep on track with the food. Thanks for letting me comment.