Biggest Loser 10 Fall Challenge -- for losers and maintainers :)

[LuvBaloo]

NOW FOR THOSE OF US WHO SET A GOAL FOR THE CHALLENGE!

NOTE: this list includes participants who have reported in within the last 3weeks, once someone misses 3 weigh-ins they are dropped from this report.
How this works: you set your goal for what to lose in the challenge. Then I calculate your weight loss in the challenge divided by your goal to get a % to goal.
Anybody can change their goal at anytime (or add a goal) – all you have to do is send me a PM.
Since the goals are an individual thing, the list is just in alphabetical order to make it easier for everybody to find their own name. If there are any questions or suggestions please let me know.
We have done 6 out of 15 weeks, so the challenge is 40% complete.
aamomma 20.0
boltfan 20.0
carmiedog 5.8
Chicogirl 70.0
corinnak 61.5
crabbygal902 0.0
Cupcaker 43.8
disneymom2one 73.4
Dreamer24 19.4
dvccruiser76 54.5
flipflopmom 33.3
goldcupmom 25.0
jbm02 50.0
JOANNEL 35.0
keenercam 20.0
liesel 36.7
lisah0711 36.7
lovedvc 12.0
MacG 17.5
MickeyMagic 39.2
mikamah 26.7
mommyof2Pirates 11.0
momof2gr8kids 20.0
my3princes 17.1
NC_Tink 21.9
pinkle 12.5
SettingSail 53.3
tggrrstarr 32.2
tigger813 50.5
tiki23 2.8
Worfiedoodles 13.3


DON'T eat when you are tired! You lose control when you are tired and hungry. Have a cup of tea and go to bed hungry... it won't kill you!!

ALWAYS have healthy choices in the house.... it makes life SO MUCH EASIER.

KNOW now that you will have to exercise pretty much every day for the rest of your life. Learn to love it... or at least tolerate it.

NOTHING.... ABSOLUTELY NOTHING tastes as good as thin feels!!! That is NOT just hearsay.... I can say it from true life experience!

Embrace this new interest in nutrition, health, and exercise... it will benefit you and everyone around you.

Love yourself... not matter what the scale says.
By pjlla

 

[flipflopmom]

Good news is I got the promotion to be the practice manager effective yesterday. Bad news is I only got a 57 cent raise. I cant even explain to you the disappointment I have.
I am happy to have a job and have gotten some kind of increase rather than nothing. I too like others have CC debt along with some personal loans that we had taken out. In 3-4 years my loans including the car loan, and 1 cc will be paid off. Once my kids no longer need childcare or after school care I will be saving 900$/mth. 3. (negative) I have now been stuck between 183 and 185lbs for weeks now. I just cant seem to focus!!!!

Lindsay, that completely, utterly, and totally stinks!!! I am so sorry. You know I feel you. We haven't gotten a raise for 3-4 years, and our insurance keeps going up, so it's actually like a pay cut. Like you, I know that in 3 years we'll have about 4 loans paid off, I'll be making a "little" more each month with my Master's Degree, and no childcare expenses. Sophie's preschool is NOTHING compared to yours, though. But by that time, AK will be 15, so college will be looming, we'll need a new car, etc. I am taking it one day at a time right now. What can I do today to help our finances kinda thinking. That stuck feeling, BTDT, too! to you! Maybe our economy will turn around for all of us.

Yes I have the vibram five fingers. I have been avoiding big rocks, so I don't know what it will feel like yet. They are hard to put on, but really make a difference for my feet.

That's awesome! I've heard about the love/hate thing, too!

Mine used to be blue, but over the last year it has become Purple. I've learned that purple really makes my eyes pop and looks good with my complextion. I always have people make positive comments when I wear purple and purple makes me happy.

Cindy's castle trim blue! It's the color of my girls' eyes, too, and it makes me happy and calm. Just wish it wasn't so close to UNC colored!!!

I'll PM that email address.

Thanks!

Tomorrow's plan:
Breakfast - peanut butter on toast
Morning break - 1 mile walk; donate blood
Lunch - meet mom some place
Afternoon break - oikos, berries, walnuts
Dinner - again, not sure but need "substantial" after giving blood
No workout

I tried donating blood once, and passed out! Good for you for helping out. Don't know if I shared this before, but Daddy only had one kidney from 1965 on. His other was knicked during surgery to remove kidney stones, Dr. didn't catch it, he had a bleeding disorder and lost a lot of blood. They told mom he would never live to come home. She had 2 boys under 5 at the time. He had a rare blood type with a rare antibody, and they only had one match in the entire US. A police officer from NY. He kept Daddy alive during that time! Otherwise, I never would have been here. So thank you.

QOTD: I love Tiana. I especially like the quote from Tianas dad to her: Yes, you wish and you dream with all your little heart. But you remember, Tiana, that old star can only take you part of the way. I can relate to that a lot. Today’s feeling: fat. I have no real clothes that fit my body size. I actually went from a size 18 to size 8. Due to time and money, I do not have size 8 clothes. I think its just the memory of wearing the old/big clothes makes me feel fat. My perception of myself also makes me feel like I have not lost enough weight. But this is probably a result of wearing clothes that are too big for me. I am 6 pounds away from my “goal” weight, and Im afraid those six pounds will not make me feel “skinny”.

I totally know what you mean. In fact, when I do wear clothes that fit, I feel like I look ....suggestive. I've worn baggy stuff for so long, it's a weird feeling. Thank goodness Mom has some clothes that fit me, however, they are still a size or 2 too big. I LOVE TIANA!!!!!!!!!! Body distortion stinks!!!

It's been a bad first half of the week for me and I'm worried it's only going to get worse. It's been a stressful work week and I've been eating crap and not exercising.

for a better day!

Well I had my doctor's appointment today for my knee. No more P90x or C25k for me for a while. He thinks my kneecap has fluid in it or something, I have a prescription for ibuprofin for a few days and he gave me the ok to continue my walking, thank God! Got a few xrays done so we will see if they give any further information.

Be careful! You definitely want it healed before WDW!!!!!

I was wondering the same thing. I already have something picked out actually.

You guys are great!

Congrats to Tracey, all the top 10!!!! Way to go!!!!! I read the challenge is 40% over. What do we each need to do to make our goals? I see some are on target on that list, and even over! GREAT JOB!!!!!


I have 7 minutes. Busy, busy day. I am actually going to a conference tonight for work with 3 other teachers. Should be fun, and the school system is paying for everything! I probably won't get to check in again until tomorrow night, so don't stress over me! I love the girls I am going with, dinner tonight should be fun. Don't know what we are having yet, but.... I don't care. I'm not worrying about it tonight. Is that a bad attitude? Probably! I've eaten veggies for lunches and dinners all week. I am just in the mood. Even though they'll reimburse me, I have to pay for my meal, so not too far out there! We'll walk to dinner and back from the hotel, so that's my exercise for the day.

Just cruising along. Trying to keep up with "mental boxes". Do what you can for the moment, and don't think about the other stuff. What do I need to be doing RIGHT NOW to take control and be productive, healthy, and make someone happy? Otherwise, it all takes over and I can't focus on anything!

I'll get to find out my body fat analysis this am. Hoping I'm not too disappointed.

Time's up! If I don't get a chance to get back on before we leave this afternoon, have a good day today and tomorrow. It's finally Wednesday!
Taryn

 

[tigger813]

YEAH ME!!!! I'm the BL!!!!! It's taken me a long time to get back up there!!!!

Taking my daughter to the wellness center for a shake and I will go later this morning with a friend. At least I hope she's coming. If not, I'll get a walk in later anyways!

TTFN

 

[KristiMc]

yeah me!!!! I'm the bl!!!!! It's taken me a long time to get back up there!!!!

Taking my daughter to the wellness center for a shake and i will go later this morning with a friend. At least i hope she's coming. If not, i'll get a walk in later anyways!

Ttfn

congrats!!!

 

[tigger813]

Tigger is under the weather or starting to be. Got a sore throat and headache last night and woke up feeling the same way but with an added bonus of being stuffy. I did do my cardio/sculpting workout this morning despite that. Headache subsided a bit but it's the congestion that's the issue.

Almost time to go to the bus stop. It's really cold out this morning which doesn't help my cold any. Both girls are coughy and stuffy as well. We're supposed to go to a Halloween party on Saturday so hopefully we will be feeling better.

TTFN

 

[Rose&Mike]

Congratulations Tracey!!!!! And all the other losers!

Taryn--if you end up doing an online party send me a pm.

Jessie and Woody costume ideas:

I sew, but tried to give suggestions for what to do if you don't.

Hats--I bought a cheap straw hat from a costume store and put a couple of coats of high gloss craft paint on them, then used shiny white cording and with a big needle laced it around the outside of the hat. I put sequinned trim around the hat band area. For Woody I found leather cording.

Vest--for woody's vest I found cow print and sewed a simple vest. I'm stuck on what to do for a vest if you don't sew. For his shirt we got a yellow t shirt and a red fabric marker and lined the stripes. For buttons I found wooden circles at Michael's and painted them.

Jessie--for chaps I used the cow print and and sewed white fringe on them that I found at Joanne fabric. I used safety pins to attach them to my jeans. If you don't sew, you could probably glue the trim on. I sewed a lining in my chaps, but if you don't sew there's this stuff called wonderunder which you could use to iron the cow print fabric to felt or something stiffer. I used a white shirt and cut out of yellow fabric an overlay for the top of the shirt. I lined it, but you wouldn't necessarily have to. You could cut it out of felt. I hotglued sequinned trim to the yellow fabric. And used the same yellow fabric to make cuffs. Again, I sewed, but you could probably do the same thing with felt. I also glued red sequined trim to the cuffs.

For the buttons that I painted I bought pin backings at Michaels and glued them on. I had buttons for Jessie as well, but didn't use them. Hope this helps. It was really fun. We went to MNSSHP in our costumes last year and had people stop us to take our picture and lots of cast members tell us how great we looked. Let me know if something doesn't make sense.

Mike and I went out last night. I had fries and beer, so I was happy. DS called at some point to tell me he was doing better, but I can't remember what else he said, between the beer and being exhausted I was just out of it. I sent him an article about ADD and coping mechanisms. I still don't think he has ADD--but I think he has some of the symptoms, and all of the suggestions are useful irregardless. I read through the whole do you have these symptoms, and based on what I know about him and what he tells me, I just can't even come close to coming up with enough. I think this was all just some growing pains, and he messed up and wants a do over, and realized yesterday he wasn't going to get one this semester. Even though he was starting to get back on track, he was still getting grades back from when he wasn't. So he over reacted and got very upset. I am glad we got in touch with the person at the university, because he said she told him the same things that I did. And now she knows to kind of keep an eye on him.

We were going to run a race in November, but we might drive down and visit DS instead. We'll see how it goes. I am absolutely exhausted. For a couple of hours when his phone was off I was a mess. It turns out it was dead and he was in class, so that was good. I am off today, and I think I am going to do nothing, take a nap or two. I might even skip another workout. I just need to not use all this excitement as an excuse to eat really crappy, which is what I want to do.

Ok, I woke up at 5:30 when Mike got up. I think I am going to go back to bed. Thanks for all the hugs. Have a good day.

 

[jennz]

Hi cc!

Congrats Tigger on BL - you're right, it's been a while - glad you're back!

I really don't want to work out today but will do it...I started a new series yesterday, Slim in 6. I can do this for 6 weeks. That's what I keep telling myself.

DH had a potentially bad meeting about his job this morning, waiting to hear from him about that...I need to clean or exercise right now to get some of this stress out!

 

[Dreamer24]

Congrats to Tigger for being the biggest loser!

I'm excited to have made the list again. I know I won't be on it next time but its a nice reminder that when I work hard to stay on track all week, I can do it. Today will be a good day. One day at a time!

Also, congrats to all of you who are at, near or above 40% of your personal goal!

Thanks Jen and Pam for this quote:
NOTHING.... ABSOLUTELY NOTHING tastes as good as thin feels!!! That is NOT just hearsay.... I can say it from true life experience!
I will keep that in my head all day!

Today is a busy day.

I haven't kept up much but there was one QOTD that really jumped out at me. If I had a vow renewal coming up and I were back at my goal weight, I would wear exactly the same dress I wore 1.5 years ago!

CC, I'm sure I missed an update somewhere but how is your foot doing?

 

[keenercam]

Just a quick "good morning". I am working from home for a couple of hours while some work is being done in our kitchen but I had to check in here.

Congratulations to all of our losers and maintainers. Awesome job, everyone!!! And congratulations to everyone who reported in this week. Regardless of how we are doing, I really believe the first step toward success is showing up.

As for me, I measured my chips last night and counted the points. Dinner was a delicious WW mini cheeseburger, a serving of fat free chips, and a bowl of steamed veggies. Delicious! For dessert, I made a single serving no pudge brownie; I used Dannon light & fit cherry yogurt and it reminded me of a chocolate covered cherry. Warm brownie with some cool whip light -- delicious!

Now, I have to be good today since tonight is my business dinner. I will probably get to meet Mike Farrell who is the keynote speaker. He is known as one of Hollywood's most prominent activists, though I don't know much about his efforts. It will be very interesting.

Hugs, all! Have a great day!

ETA: Dreamer24 -- You were a stunning bride! You look so happy!

 

[cclovesdis]

Morning!

Today's excitement is that I have a dentist appt. But, thanks to our Healthy Habits, I've been flossing.

I'll also spend some time studying. The week before Thanksgiving is getting closer and closer. Today my goal is to finish the chapter on exponents. It's amazing how little I remember from junior high. But, I know all this studying will pay off. I need to go to the library soon and pick up some books on U.S. History as well.

My Dis time is almost up (thanks Taryn!) so here's to a day free from the "poof" fairy.

1. (Positive) I am heading in the right direction being 31 and already becoming a manager. There is a lot of room for growth in my organization and I feel at least I am moving ahead even if financially right now it is lacking. I am happy to have a job and have gotten some kind of increase rather than nothing.

This positive is huge! I’m optimistic your higher-up will be able to do something. How are you doing this morning?

Yes I have the vibram five fingers. I have been avoiding big rocks, so I don't know what it will feel like yet. They are hard to put on, but really make a difference for my feet. I think you either love them or hate them. I bought them on ebay for half. The lady selling them didn't like them.

I'm not pushing it on the c25k. I'm steady at 30 minutes right now, just working on consistency and then I'll start adding on. My friend wants to do the half marathon at WDW in 2012, so I have more than a year to get to that point.

Those shoes sound worth trying for me as I am awful even walking on pavement, etc. I am a treadmill exerciser.

FWIW, I’m a worrier. Someone, maybe Taryn or Rose, mentioned that you really should follow the program to a T, because pushing yourself too much could be problematic. Glad you are doing so well!

Wednesday QOTD: We've done all of the really good relevant questions before, so I'm going for an easy peasy one. What is your favorite color.

Blue looks good on me as does pink scared1 and red.

A change sounds like a good idea.

They were good. And I'm glad because if they were lousy I may have kept looking for something else to munch. Sometimes I just need to crunch something, ya know?

Thanks! ITA with you on the crunch need. These were just off. So glad yours were better!

Nice job yesterday! on the run! Thank you for giving blood!

Today’s feeling: fat. I have no real clothes that fit my body size. I actually went from a size 18 to size 8. Due to time and money, I do not have size 8 clothes. I think its just the memory of wearing the old/big clothes makes me feel fat. My perception of myself also makes me feel like I have not lost enough weight. But this is probably a result of wearing clothes that are too big for me. I am 6 pounds away from my “goal” weight, and Im afraid those six pounds will not make me feel “skinny”. Of course I definitely feel healthier. These feelings are just so weird because yesterday I was feeling skinny. Weird. Anyways that’s my rant of the day.

I am in need of new clothes too. And, I understand. I feel guilty asking my parents to pay for them, though. I know they could, but I still feel guilty. I also think this year’s styles aren’t helping. Things seem to be either very fitted or very loose. You are doing so, so well, amazingly well! I know you will reach your goal weight. If there is one thing I have figured out about you, it is that you are very dedicated and when you set your mind to something, you achieve it!

The WISH Biggest Loser Summer Challenge Week 6 Superstars!!
#10- 0.67% - tggrrstarr
#9- 0.87% - Cupcaker
#8- 0.93% - disneymom2one
#7- 0.96% - Dreamer24
#6- 0.98% - TIE SettingSail & CrystalS
#5- 1.01% - KristiMc
#4- 1.09% - cherry-pops
#3- 1.51% - carmiedog
#2- 1.61% - MickeyMagic
and now
The WISH Biggest Loser Summer Challenge
Week 6 Biggest Loser is:
#1- 2.40% - tigger813

Congrats to all our Biggest Losers and especially Tracey!

Taryn: Insurance is so necessary, but is definitely increasing. There have been some really heated threads on other Dis forums about this topic. There’s also another one about how teachers make $80K/year and don’t pay for insurance and only work x hours, etc. Yeah, okay. I’ll refrain from commenting on any of those threads.

Not that you aren’t aware of this I am sure, but don’t rule out a community college. I know AK is very smart and could go to her dream school, but they are becoming very common and even popular. The price is great and the education is on par with many competitive colleges/universities. In CT, there is a program where you can go to a community college and graduate and all of your credits transfer to one of the state universities and at least one of the private colleges. I actually took 3 classes at 2 different CT community colleges in order to help guarantee that I would graduate from undergrad in 4 years (2 certifications = lots of requirements) and I found the support my professors offered us to be amazing! The professors are used to accommodations under ADA and the tutoring centers have long hours, etc. Just make sure that your DDs know they have to go on to an undergrad program immediately after graduation with an A.A. or A.S. Two of my cousins are in the process of getting their post-secondary education this way and so far it is really working well for them. My oldest cousin did something similar, but she went to a college that offers Associate’s, Bachelor’s, and Master’s. She earned all 3, with the 1st 2 being in 4 years. She also gave me some of the best advice ever: “No one can take away your degree.”

Just food for thought in today’s economy as well as how difficult it can be to get into a 4-year college/university these days. Even almost 10 years ago, when I was applying, I wasn’t guaranteed a spot at UCONN and I had decent SAT scores, was in the top 25% of my class (in one of the best school districts in the state), and taking college prep and 1 Honor’s class. Now, with my SAT score and high school grades, I wouldn’t even bother applying to UCONN. There isn’t a chance I’d get in. You need at least a 1200 on the math and verbal portions of the SAT and close to straight A’s in at least college prep classes.

And, on a lighter note, enjoy yourself tonight!

Tracey: Hope you feel better soon!

Rose: You are a very creative! Hope today is a good day!

jennz: I’ve heard good things about Slim in 6. Hope DH’s meeting doesn’t bring bad news.

 

[jennz]

Dreamer - GORGEOUS dress!!! You are beautiful!

Cam - missed replying but I love that your dd thinks you are not at all link Tink.

cc - thanks! So far so good...dh's meeting was "better than expected." I did my workout...next is a walk with the dogs and daughter later today.

 

[keenercam]

CC -- good luck with the studying. I know you'll do great on those exams. Can't wait to hear about your training next week.

jennz - so glad your husband's meeting was better than expected. Those work meetings can be scary.

Well, one of the workmen showed up at about 8:30 and he removed the cooktop and the drawer under it. But the granite guy hasn't arrived yet and may not until about 10:45. That is so annoying. Thank God my firm has a remote server so I can work from here, but I know I'd be much more productive at my office desk. Oh,and I haven't had breakfast yet just because it is kind of awkward with someone here, KWIM?

 

[Octoberbride03]

Good morning everybody

At least I hope it is. Checking in on my last day off for the week. Have my colposcopy scheduled for Fri. after work. Hopefully I won't have to wait long for the results. I would really like to start planning my cruise for next Oct. and not major medical treatment which will mean postponing it. I'm trying to be positive about it as I usually am a positive person, but its just kind of easier to throw myself in a tailspin instead of expecting everything to be fine and going off the deep end later KWIM.

CC: good luck at the dentist. that is something I haven't done since my last post wisdom teeth removal visit. I keep thinking I should go back, but have yet to do anything about it I've been flossing though

Cam: Have fun at your dinner tonight. NOT a fan of Mike's activism. I know a couple of his causes and lets just say if I were a cop I would not want to be in the same room.

Taryn: Do you have a website with the PC? I really need a utensil crock and can't find a decent 1 anywhere. Its driving me crazy.

And we'll finish up with am odd note for the moment before I go get some waffles. Was checking my email while deciding how to reply and got 1 from my parish which is organizing a crafts fair in Dec. I sell AVON in my off hours(not that I do well, but that's another story). Apparently, someone has submitted my name for the fair because the email stated they already have an AVON rep and that only 1 will be allowed. They are sure I think this is fair.

Absolutely, its fair. Its also fair to send me the name of whoever applied on my behalf so I can kick their but. Who does this? Honestly, if we're going to submit my name we had better start buying from me, cause I guarantee you whoever submitted it hasn't bought a thing from me.

Ok rant over.

Have a good day everybody

 

[pjlla]

Pam if we could merge ourselves together we would be one awesome on plan person. I am doing so well keeping up with the exercise routine but am having so much trouble with counting points and eating well. So together we would make a good team.

Wish we could!!

Not a lot to say, but I promised a nighttime check in. Brad and AK not home yet. Did some Pampered chef reading.

Finances going from bad to worse. I have GOT to make this pampered chef do well, and QUICK!

Just a thought, but do you have anything you could consign or sell on Craigslist or such? That could bring in some quick cash to tide you over.

Do you have any money outstanding that you could get your hands on? A few years ago we decided to plan a last minute trip and needed some cash. I quickly filled out every rebate form that I had sitting around, sent in a few invoices to places that owed me money (like church... needed payback for expenses from VBS), dug in the couch cushions and cashed in the change, returned bottles for the deposit, doubled my coupon effort, etc. Then we ate from the pantry as much as humanly possible... only shopped for the absolute essentials for a few weeks... and managed to come up with a few hundred dollars we wouldn't have had otherwise. Just some thoughts here....I hope things turn around for you quickly.

I guess no one had time to work on the QOTD today. I know that it was an odd question, but there was, is a method to my madness. I was hoping that when people started browsing gowns it might motivate them to fit into the perfect dress. I totally understand not having time do work on it though.

QOTD for Tuesday: Who is your favorite Disney Character and Why.

My favorite is Tinkerbell. She has blonde hair like me and is fun with a fiery temper. She is also is mechanically inclined just like me

Hard to say.... Ariel comes to mind first cause I love her... not sure why. My Disney "Gemini" mug says I am like Stitch, but I disagree. And I love Jiminy's positive message and spirit. But Mickey is my main man!!

I'm jumping on the one day at a time bandwagon. My PF is flaring up again and my whole left leg is uncomfortable from the hip downward. Yesterday I worked out with my trainer and did a workout called "Gravity" which is a system like Nautilus with a slant board and various exercises. Having my leg hurt makes me very nervous with the Princess training about to start. Coupled with a hard workout, eating lunch too late in the day before the workout out and feeling sick, I ended up crying on the way home and having to lie down for awhile when I got home. I just feel very discouraged and that I am not strong enough to reach my goals of running the Princess. This is in spite of losing 4 inches with WIN! and being totally on track with my weight loss. So I am going to take it easy exercise wise for the next few days and see if I can get to feeling a little stronger and better about things.

Have a great day all!

I'm so sorry that the PF is bothering you and making you feel so down! I think it is just "race anxiety" talking! You are STRONG and you can DO IT!! Take care of yourself and that PF and I'm sure you will feel better soon (both mentally and physically!).

I was just talking with DD this morning about the MENTAL part of being an athlete (coincidental!!). I told her that ALL GREAT ATHLETES (meaning Michael Phelps, of course... who else? ) have trainers/coaches/therapists who help them conquer the MENTAL aspects of their sports. DD was talking about being psyched out at her meet last night when they had a "take your mark" call changed to a "stand please" call... and it really threw her off. Thankfully the timer at her lane reminded her to take a deep breath and relax before the "take your mark" call came again and I'm sure that helped her. But she shouldn't need others to remind her of that.

Lisa you are STRONG and POWERFUL and an ATHLETE.... sure, you have an injury right now that is throwing you for a loop.... but don't let it derail your thinking! You are SO capable of running the Princess half... and you have plenty of time to continue to train and get ready for it. Try to find another form of exercise to keep you on track until the PF is cleared up... maybe a recumbent bike??

I'll be your cheerleader.....okay??

I haven't posted much lately because I've seen how much many of you are struggling with significant issues and my vents seem trivial in comparision. This is a very strong group and I know you can all work through it!

Please try not to feel that way. WHATEVER you are feeling or need to vent about is welcome to be discussed here.... no matter what the rest of us are feeling/talking about. If it is bothering you enough to want to talk about it, then it is SIGNIFICANT! Sometimes talking about someone else's problems/issues can help us identify/solve problems of our own! So you may be helping someone without even realizing it if you want to talk about an issue... ANY ISSUE.

Yes, we ARE a strong group! And gettting stronger by the day!!

I GOT A JOB!!!

Of the 3 jobs that I interviewed for this one seemed the best fit. While it is all on the telephone, it is a stepping stone into an up and coming company. I'm excited to see what this company will offer me down the road. This is GroSolar. I'm excited. I will start on Nov. 1st. That gives me a week and a half to finish some projects that I've started.

That is SUPER!!! I hope that this job works out to be just what you are looking for! I'd love to hear more about the company... it sounds interesting.

And from one "home improvement girl" to another.... WTG on the closet!!! I used to be much more ambitious (and have more time) to tackle projects like that... and it always impressed the heck out of other people.... but I always just looked at it like... "it needs to be tackled and I have the time".... so I did it! The only thing I haven't ever really tried is plumbing (although I've installed a faucet or two).

Let me start by saying--no hugs needed, etc. Just need to share. My DS had a complete meltdown today. He called me twice before work and once at work around lunchtime. When he called at work he was talking about dropping out of school. Then his phone died--but I didn't know his phone died, I thought he had hung up. So after an hour Mike called someone we know who works at the school and had her check on him. He had emailed me, but I don't check email at work. Anyhow, just got done talking to him and he is still a mess, but doing a little better. This is just killing me, being so far away. I thought since freshman year was so easy, we were not going to have to do this, but this year has been hard. It's so hard to know if this is normal teenage stuff or something we should be more worried about. Anyhow, really no comments needed. I'm skipping my run tonight--I am so tired.

While I'm sure that you wanted to just go to DS and give him a big hug, I think YOU are the one that really needs the hug No words of wisdom to offer... sorry.

Just wanted to stop in to say hi. I am not having a very good and am actually very down. I will lists the negatives and then remind myself of some positives and hopefully tomorrow I can get back on here as happy as a clam.

1. (Negative) My boss came to see me today. Good news is I got the promotion to be the practice manager effective yesterday. Bad news is I only got a 57 cent raise. I cant even explain to you the disappointment I have. I put so much into this job and have so much responsibility and I am just amazed by this. I really do think my boss is a great guy and has great ideas. He has only been in the position 1 year and is working on putting together a better compensation package for managers for our network. Apparently whoever was in the position before never did any of this and the current managers have not gotten a raise in 3 years.

1. (Positive) I am heading in the right direction being 31 and already becoming a manager. There is a lot of room for growth in my organization and I feel at least I am moving ahead even if financially right now it is lacking. I am happy to have a job and have gotten some kind of increase rather than nothing.

2. (negative) Financial worries.....this is probably because my hopes of a big increase were deflated today. I too like others have CC debt along with some personal loans that we had taken out. It was all bad decisions and now I am trying to dig out of it.

2. (positive) In 3-4 years my loans including the car loan, and 1 cc will be paid off. Once my kids no longer need childcare or after school care I will be saving 900$/mth. That might take awhile but it will be a positive at some point.

3. (negative) I have now been stuck between 183 and 185lbs for weeks now. I just cant seem to focus!!!!

3. (positive) Due to my anxiety today I really didnt eat much. No really I have come so far that I am going to say that Im in a rut, I will get out of that rut, and I will start loosing again. I still have my 30lb clippie too!!!!

Thanks for listening everyone. I really hate to be a debbie downer. I feel better already. Thanks for being here for me.:

Sorry I didnt comment tonight but congrats to those who deserve it, and to those who need them.

Okay... I agree that the raise kind of stinks... especially since it sounds like a big move with more responsibility and you were expecting more. But remember, with the stinky economy perhaps they weren't able to offer more without giving others an increase. And if you stick with it, perhaps you will be rewarded in the future. I took a job for only "ok" pay many years ago... but I worked my butt off for the first year and made huge strides in the department... and I was rewarded with a 17% increase at my first yearly review. If I had only given lackluster effort to that job (because of the lackluster pay), I'm SURE that I wouldn't have received anywhere near that amount.

At another time (shortly before the above mentioned job), I took a job that was really VERY below me (educationally, etc) and I felt degraded every day at that job. And of course, I didn't NOT rise above it and give it my best anyhow.... I did lackluster work, called in sick frequently, and gave it minimal effort. And, of course, it was finally suggested that perhaps I would be happier elsewhere. Sadly, that company was on the verge of a large expansion and I'm SURE I would have been offered a much better job with better pay if I had only proven myself at that first position. It always reminds me to tell my kids to DO THEIR BEST, no matter WHAT the job brings! You never know what the future will hold!

Anyhow.... glad you were able to also find some positive things to talk about. And hopefully the job will work out to be great!

Wednesday QOTD: We've done all of the really good relevant questions before, so I'm going for an easy peasy one. What is your favorite color.

Mine used to be blue, but over the last year it has become Purple. I've learned that purple really makes my eyes pop and looks good with my complextion. I always have people make positive comments when I wear purple and purple makes me happy.

My favorite color makes me happy also! PINK

It has been my favorite for many, many years (although in my teens it was tied with purple). I was actually married in pink.... and I've never regretted that decision.

Today’s feeling: fat. I have no real clothes that fit my body size. I actually went from a size 18 to size 8. Due to time and money, I do not have size 8 clothes. I think its just the memory of wearing the old/big clothes makes me feel fat. My perception of myself also makes me feel like I have not lost enough weight. But this is probably a result of wearing clothes that are too big for me. I am 6 pounds away from my “goal” weight, and Im afraid those six pounds will not make me feel “skinny”. Of course I definitely feel healthier. These feelings are just so weird because yesterday I was feeling skinny. Weird. Anyways that’s my rant of the day.

First of all... WOW on dropping 10 sizes! And you NEED to get yourself some new clothes! Not only to look better, but to FEEL better! Think of the new clothes as "mental health medicine"!! If money is tight right now, try the Goodwill or Salvation Army store or another thrift store. I buy almost all of my clothes there... mostly because I am CHEAP! But I also like "nice" clothes, but hate the prices in "real" stores. I have many nice brand name clothes that came from GW. Gap, Coldwater Creek, Liz Claiborne. At my GW almost all of the clothes are $4.99... not always a GREAT bargain, but if you can find the half-price "tag color" of the day that helps.... plus I figure if the clothes were already worn and washed and still look good, then they will hold up well.

If you aren't a frequent thrift shopper, here are a few tips..... check every pocket... sometimes they have cash!

Check every zipper to be sure it works well... double check that every button is there.... but if it isn't and you still like the item, ask the store to give it to you for a discount.

Check stress points for wear... waist buttonholes, pockets, hems, neck holes, knees, and elbows.

TRY ON EVERYTHING... I currently have clothes that fit well that range in size from 10 to 8 petite to 3 average.

Shop for the basics at the thrift store and you can fill in around the edges with trendier pieces from "real" stores.

Don't let a musty "thrift store" smell throw you off.... it will come out in the wash.

If it says "dry clean only" you may be able to wash it in cold water any how. And if it was cheap enough, it might be worth the gamble.

Shop off season.... I bought a winter coat last month on a 90° day... it was about $12.99 and it is BEAUTIFUL! Dark brown, Jones New York, and doesn't even look like it was ever worn! I wasn't exactly shopping for a winter coat that day, but I KNOW I will get years of wear from it.

You will definitely feel better and THINNER wearing clothes that fit properly! Take it from someone who wore the same "fat" clothes even after losing almost 20 pounds... it felt SO GOOD to wear clothes that finally fit and looked good! I held my head up proudly that day!! You will too!

The WISH Biggest Loser Summer Challenge Week 6 Superstars!!
#10- 0.67% - tggrrstarr
#9- 0.87% - Cupcaker
#8- 0.93% - disneymom2one
#7- 0.96% - Dreamer24
#6- 0.98% - TIE SettingSail & CrystalS
#5- 1.01% - KristiMc
#4- 1.09% - cherry-pops
#3- 1.51% - carmiedog
#2- 1.61% - MickeyMagic
and now
The WISH Biggest Loser Summer Challenge
Week 6 Biggest Loser is:
#1- 2.40% - tigger813

Congratulations to EVERYONE on the BL list this week! And to everyone who isn't on the list, but is still TRYING!!!

Special thanks to Shannon for continuing to find the time to do this for us, despite the craziness in her life right now! I hope you are well Shannon!!

Thanks Jen and Pam for this quote:
NOTHING.... ABSOLUTELY NOTHING tastes as good as thin feels!!! That is NOT just hearsay.... I can say it from true life experience!
I will keep that in my head all day!

Today is a busy day.

I haven't kept up much but there was one QOTD that really jumped out at me. If I had a vow renewal coming up and I were back at my goal weight, I would wear exactly the same dress I wore 1.5 years ago!

CC, I'm sure I missed an update somewhere but how is your foot doing?

That "thin" quote is a powerful one! Thanks for the reminder.

Your photos are gorgeous... and it must feel good to know that you picked the "right" dress... confirmed by knowing you would wear it again all this time later. I feel the same about mine.... although after almost 20 years, I'm afraid it would look very dated.

As for me, I measured my chips last night and counted the points. Dinner was a delicious WW mini cheeseburger, a serving of fat free chips, and a bowl of steamed veggies. Delicious! For dessert, I made a single serving no pudge brownie; I used Dannon light & fit cherry yogurt and it reminded me of a chocolate covered cherry. Warm brownie with some cool whip light -- delicious!

Now, I have to be good today since tonight is my business dinner. I will probably get to meet Mike Farrell who is the keynote speaker. He is known as one of Hollywood's most prominent activists, though I don't know much about his efforts. It will be very interesting.

Dinner sounds yummy! Mike Farrell??? The guy from M*A*S*H?? What is he an activitist about?

Morning!

Today's excitement is that I have a dentist appt. But, thanks to our Healthy Habits, I've been flossing.

Not that you aren’t aware of this I am sure, but don’t rule out a community college. I know AK is very smart and could go to her dream school, but they are becoming very common and even popular. The price is great and the education is on par with many competitive colleges/universities. In CT, there is a program where you can go to a community college and graduate and all of your credits transfer to one of the state universities and at least one of the private colleges. I actually took 3 classes at 2 different CT community colleges in order to help guarantee that I would graduate from undergrad in 4 years (2 certifications = lots of requirements) and I found the support my professors offered us to be amazing! The professors are used to accommodations under ADA and the tutoring centers have long hours, etc. Just make sure that your DDs know they have to go on to an undergrad program immediately after graduation with an A.A. or A.S. Two of my cousins are in the process of getting their post-secondary education this way and so far it is really working well for them. My oldest cousin did something similar, but she went to a college that offers Associate’s, Bachelor’s, and Master’s. She earned all 3, with the 1st 2 being in 4 years. She also gave me some of the best advice ever: “No one can take away your degree.”

Just food for thought in today’s economy as well as how difficult it can be to get into a 4-year college/university these days. Even almost 10 years ago, when I was applying, I wasn’t guaranteed a spot at UCONN and I had decent SAT scores, was in the top 25% of my class (in one of the best school districts in the state), and taking college prep and 1 Honor’s class. Now, with my SAT score and high school grades, I wouldn’t even bother applying to UCONN. There isn’t a chance I’d get in. You need at least a 1200 on the math and verbal portions of the SAT and close to straight A’s in at least college prep classes.

I had a dentist appointment yesterday..... but they've given up on reminding me to floss!! Hope you get the "no cavities" award today!!

Just REMINDING me about college and SAT scores etc makes me DD just took the PSAT last week for the first time (she is a sophomore). I'm not sure if I am more worried about her getting into a good school or PAYING FOR a good school!! DD's boyfriend took the SATs as a 7th grader and again as an 8th grader.... and got a perfect score in math and a near perfect score on the other parts. He (and his parents) attended a banquet last weekend for SAT high-scorers.... and he got something crazy like 6 awards!! I'm so intimidated by people with brains like that!



Well friends...

after reading to catch up and responding, I have now been sitting here (with a short break or two to do laundry) for 2 hours!! I need to get moving!

No big changes around here. Still not exercising the way I should, but I will do SOMETHING today after I get off the computer. Eating is still okay. I did take a few minutes to read back in my food journals to see what I did when I was losing better. My most recent good weight loss week was the week that I ate an ENTIRE individual pear and gorgonzola pizza from California Pizza Kitchen for lunch and then munched on some M&Ms on the car ride later that day.... and that was on a Tuesday..... I NEVER splurge mid-week!! So it is giving me reason to think that perhaps things have come to a screeching halt on the scale because I'm not eating enough. I have been feeling like I am eating all my Flex points on the weekends, but that was just a big "estimation" since I am not really sure about the points in many of the splurge things (like movie popcorn) and I don't always measure when I am splurging. So I've been spending my weekdays (Sunday-Thurs) eating just my daily points.... give or take a point or two per day. I NEVER figure in my activities points (not that I've been earning any lately...). So I'm trying to spread my Flex points out this week and really count them and use them THROUGHOUT the week.... and to make sure that I am TRULY using them ALL! It is a hard change.... I am so used to eating so little... and it is hard to force myself to eat an extra point or two or three at the end of the day if I've only had 17-18 points that day. It goes against everything I want to believe about weight loss. But it is worth a try.... because what I was doing certainly wasn't working for me!!!

That said, I need to continue to remind myself that I have lost a grand total of 85 pounds (give or take... depending on the day ) and pretty much maintained that weight loss (within a 5 pound range) since early spring! That is a big accomplishment (if I may say so myself) and I need to stop beating myself up because I'm not hitting that "magical" number I want on the scale!! Weight loss and maintenance is such a mental mind game!!!

I've got this whole day off, other than DD's swim tonight. And DH is gone for the day, so no distractions from him. But now almost half of the day is gone and I haven't accomplished much, other than laundry and "talking" with friends! It is time to get my butt moving (oh.... I did iron my clothes for my next two work days early this morning while I was waiting for DS to dress for school!).

I am working tomorrow and Friday and will be going to visit my parents over the weekend to celebrate my Dad's birthday.... so if you don't hear much from me, don't be alarmed.

I'll try to hop on again later today!....................P

 

[mommyof2Pirates]

Maybe our economy will turn around for all of us.

Yes lets hope so. It doesnt help that I am paying 3$ per gallon of gas either. I know you drive alot too. I do about 50-60 miles per day. Its just insane. Anyway I hope you enjoy yourself tonight with the girls.

If I had a vow renewal coming up and I were back at my goal weight, I would wear exactly the same dress I wore 1.5 years ago!

you made an absolutely beautiful bride. The dress was gorgeous!!!

So far so good...dh's meeting was "better than expected." I did my workout...next is a walk with the dogs and daughter later today.

Jennz I am so happy to hear everything went ok.


I am feeling much better today. Thanks for all the support it really helped. I have been working at the same office for 14 years and I have always given 110% I will continue to do the same. Its not in my blood to do anything different. I am hoping at some point it pays off.

I also saw the scale go down today.1.4 to be exact....now I just have to keep it there or lower until friday and then not gain it back over the weekend. Its my turn to coach starting friday so I am hoping that I can follow in others footsteps of loosing big during my coaching week.

I just really want to say that you all are great and I am so thankful to have found this board and all of you to be there to listen to me. I mean it really from the bottom of my heart.

 

[Rose&Mike]

Dreamer24--your pics were just beautiful.

Jennifer--glad the meeting was better than expected.

Lindsey--glad you are feeling better. Congrats on the loss!

QOTD--pink and purple and coral and gray and orange, I think that's it. I do love color!

I have done nothing so far today. Still in my jammies. Mike and I are going to run tonight. I had pistachio crisps for breakfast and a slice of leftover Mexican pizza for lunch. If we had chips and dip and chocolate in the house I would eat it, but we don't! Thank goodness. And honestly I'm still too tired and lazy to get up and drive to a store.

DS called to say he is doing better. He is giving up caffeine, except organic tea. (His roomate is a redbull sponsor and I think they consumed huge amounts of redbull.) He said he thinks the combo of caffeine and no sleep hit him yesterday and he just lost it. And that the problem with too much caffeine is that you can't sleep. Duh. They were at walmart yesterday and he took his blood pressure and it was very high and it scared him. Anyhow, crossing my fingers that we have turned the corner for at least a few days. Eventually, I'll be motivated to drive to the store and I want to feel more under control before being tempted by the chip and dips.

 

[pjlla]

I have done nothing so far today. Still in my jammies. Mike and I are going to run tonight. I had pistachio crisps for breakfast and a slice of leftover Mexican pizza for lunch. If we had chips and dip and chocolate in the house I would eat it, but we don't! Thank goodness. And honestly I'm still too tired and lazy to get up and drive to a store.

DS called to say he is doing better. He is giving up caffeine, except organic tea. (His roomate is a redbull sponsor and I think they consumed huge amounts of redbull.) He said he thinks the combo of caffeine and no sleep hit him yesterday and he just lost it. And that the problem with too much caffeine is that you can't sleep. Duh. They were at walmart yesterday and he took his blood pressure and it was very high and it scared him. Anyhow, crossing my fingers that we have turned the corner for at least a few days. Eventually, I'll be motivated to drive to the store and I want to feel more under control before being tempted by the chip and dips.

That is the good thing about living so far away from civilization... I can't act on my cravings! The nearest convenience type store is 5 miles, pizza place is about 8 miles and nearest (real) grocery store is about 25 miles (and the nearest McD is 25 miles also).... so no giving in to cravings!!

Glad to hear that DS is doing better. Maybe you could send him a care package with some herbal teas and healthy snacks?

Well..... I managed to get in a WOG of sorts. I took a page from Rose's book and told myself that I had to get out there, but after 10 minutes I could turn around and go home. I managed to do about 20 minutes before turning around and ended up with a 44 minute WOG. I certainly didn't run as far/hard as I have in the past (and I walked several hills that I have run in the past), but at least I got out there. The weather is beautiful today, so no excuses there. I tried a few new things..... first of all I loaded an episode of my favorite NPR show on my phone to listen to instead of music.... it was amusing, but didn't cut through the boredom any better than music. I also tried hard to appreciate my surroundings.... beautiful fall foliage, leaves fall around me, chipmunks, turkeys, birds, blue sky etc. But I'm so used to this... it is pretty around here all the time. So my run was still boring and I wasn't loving it. But it is done. But it is DEFINITELY time to consider another form of exercise.


I tried a new Hungry Girl food idea (not really a "recipe") for breakfast today. I mixed 1/4 C canned pumpkin in with my oatmeal (regular, not instant) for breakfast today. I also splurged on a TB of real brown sugar.It was very tasty, but not "pumpkin-y" enough or sweet enough. I did add about half a packet of Splenda and that helped. Next time I will use a 1/2 C of the pumpkin and a full packet of Splenda with the TB of brown sugar. Guess I like my oatmeal really sweet!! But it was good and had plenty of fiber and all that goodness from the pumpkin.... plus it got me a vegetable serving (or nearly so) for breakfast without having to resort to cooking broccoli at 7 am!!

I have SO much to do around here right now, I'm almost paralyzed.... I can't figure out what to do first, so I'm not doing any of it!! I splurged and took some "me" time to relax and watch the rest of last night's BL while I had lunch... but now it is time to get moving again and I can't figure out what to do first! And it is all so exciting.... laundry, dishes, vacumming, sort recycling, clean toilets.....

TTYL..................P

 

[Worfiedoodles]

QOTD for Tuesday: Who is your favorite Disney Character and Why.

I'm a Belle girl, too! I just love her! She reads, she sings, she sees beyond the gruff exterior to what a treasure her "beast" really is -- and then her loves transforms him into a handsome prince! She has family loyalty, great manners, and she marches to the beat of her own drummer.

Wednesday QOTD: We've done all of the really good relevant questions before, so I'm going for an easy peasy one. What is your favorite color.

Purple!

And I think I forgot to say Congratulations to Deb, in all the excitement!

And here's a for Rose, I can't imagine how terrified you were when your son's phone stopped working.

Oh! And Congratulations to everyone who weighed in, I agree with Cam, showing up is important!

Taryn -- Best of luck with the PC! I never get invited to parties for any products, I think maybe no one I know has them around here

I meant to check in yesterday, but I really am flat out at work. I probably shouldn't be on now, but everyone deserves a little break

I have stuck to my plan since Monday morning at work when I posted it. I've been getting up at 6 the last 2 days and then on the TM. What a difference it makes, I'm less tired and shaky late in the afternoon, and I just feel better in general. We can still leave for work before 8:30, so it's also working on that front. I actually have skipped my snacks today and yesterday because I've been so busy, but I have made sure I got enough WW pts., and I do feel more full and satisfied, I think just because I have been getting 8 hours of sleep and I can process better.

Ok, break's over...

Maria

 

[50sjayne]

Tigger promises to be a better kitty today. I started the day by having 2 pieces of potato French toast. For lunch I will have a smoothie. For supper we are grilling burgers and I will have one burger on a potato roll and some fries. DD1 has basketball this afternoon so my mom and I are going to walk while she's at practice. I will drink plenty of water today. Pats game at 1 today.

TTFN

OK good kitty . You're food sounds really good...lol

Uh-oh! I am feeling like Pamela did last week. Did I kill the thread?

I must admit I am pretty pleased with everything I accomplished this weekend. Howard and I saw a movie Friday night and I made sandwiches for both of us beforehand so that we weren't tempted by the food at the concession stand, though we did share a large popcorn with no butter (and I counted the points).

I did 7.1 miles on Saturday of pretty slow walking, but I got them done, went to WW to weigh in, worked 5 hours, grocery shopped (where I saved 65% on my grocery bill for the day!) and went to Andrew's band competition Saturday night. Again, we were faced with the tempting concession stand foods. We shared an order of 3 chicken tenders and fries and a soft pretzel. Not bad, all in all.

Yesterday, I got up early and started crockpot oatmeal using steel cut oats, chopped apples, raisins & cinnamon and vanilla extract. I also put chicken breast, rotel & corn together in another crock pot. Oh, and I peeled/cut/cored about 20 apples total (love my new william-sonoma apple preparer toy) to also do homemade unsweetened applesauce.

Howard and I walked to and from Andrew's competition yesterday since it was such a gorgeous day. it was supposed to be 2.37 miles each way but was 2.97 each way door to stadium. I'd been cooking all morning and forgot to eat, so I was really hungry when I got there but just had a soft pretzel and a bottled water and then Howard and I shared a fiber one bar I had in my tote.

It is reassuring to realize that I walked almost a half marathon's worth of miles this weekend and I am doing okay. LOVED getting out in the beautiful sunshine and crisp autumn air.

Last night I continued my trend of batch cooking on Sundays. I made oven "fried" chicken using fiber one. I cooked a pound of very lean ground turkey with taco seasoning. I made a huge pot of steamed broccoli, cauliflower, beans, peppers, etc. I made mashed potatoes for Howard and Andrew and brown rice for me, and put all but a serving of the rice into the crockpot mexicali chicken and the taco-seasoned ground turkey.

It was so funny to see the counters after dinner. My fridge is now a sea of individual serving plastic containers of mexicali chicken, turkey taco meat, applesauce, steamed veggies and oatmeal. It is going to be a crazy week, so it is nice to have everything prepped for good breakfasts, lunches and dinners. I am just bummed that I have a business dinner Wednesday night (where I know dinner won't be served until about 8 pm) and I weigh in on Thursday morning. I was hoping to hit all sorts of milestones this week but it might be hard with eating so late Wednesday night before an early morning WI. I guess we'll see how it goes.

You are doing so well--all that-- well it's impressive.

Home from work. Going to do the elliptical at 12:30 during Y&R. I should finish the laundry that I started last night. It's chilly in the house so that should warm me up. Probably have my smoothie for lunch. I think I'll actually put the heat on now for awhile just to get some heat in the house. My fingers are frozen. I've had two cups of Earl Grey Green tea this morning and my water and protein shake. Less than 2 pounds of weekend weigh to get rid of.

Tomorrow I will start getting up at 5:15 to get in 2-3 miles. Then I will be walking to the wellness center with a friend. The last who runs the center said last night that I should be a wellness coach. We talk every morning and she thinks I would be a great inspiration for others. I have thought about it. I don't always eat healthy but I do know how to refocus my energies when necessary.

Time to put that last load of clothes in the drier and put the heat on for a few minutes!

TTFN

I threatened to turn the heat on in the bathroom last night but husband talked me down.

It is funny you should say this about me.

A couple of years ago I bought the villians poster they were selling at the studios. I put it over the door in my classroom. One of my better classes asked me "Why" When I told them that I liked the villians the most some one said "Mrs. Coffey we never knew you had a dark side."

I give anyone who could be a SAHM a lot of credit. I did it for 9 months when my first son was born and it drove me crazy. I had been working for 8 years before I had my son, maybe that had something to do with it. I also know that as a teacher I can spend a lot of time with them in the afternoon and during the summer.

Have a nice evening everyone.

Well, we knew about that already....

Just wanted to stop in to say hi. I am not having a very good and am actually very down. I will lists the negatives and then remind myself of some positives and hopefully tomorrow I can get back on here as happy as a clam.

1. (Negative) My boss came to see me today. Good news is I got the promotion to be the practice manager effective yesterday. Bad news is I only got a 57 cent raise. I cant even explain to you the disappointment I have. I put so much into this job and have so much responsibility and I am just amazed by this. I really do think my boss is a great guy and has great ideas. He has only been in the position 1 year and is working on putting together a better compensation package for managers for our network. Apparently whoever was in the position before never did any of this and the current managers have not gotten a raise in 3 years.

1. (Positive) I am heading in the right direction being 31 and already becoming a manager. There is a lot of room for growth in my organization and I feel at least I am moving ahead even if financially right now it is lacking. I am happy to have a job and have gotten some kind of increase rather than nothing.

2. (negative) Financial worries.....this is probably because my hopes of a big increase were deflated today. I too like others have CC debt along with some personal loans that we had taken out. It was all bad decisions and now I am trying to dig out of it.

2. (positive) In 3-4 years my loans including the car loan, and 1 cc will be paid off. Once my kids no longer need childcare or after school care I will be saving 900$/mth. That might take awhile but it will be a positive at some point.

3. (negative) I have now been stuck between 183 and 185lbs for weeks now. I just cant seem to focus!!!!

3. (positive) Due to my anxiety today I really didnt eat much. No really I have come so far that I am going to say that Im in a rut, I will get out of that rut, and I will start loosing again. I still have my 30lb clippie too!!!!

Thanks for listening everyone. I really hate to be a debbie downer. I feel better already. Thanks for being here for me.

Sorry I didnt comment tonight but congrats to those who deserve it, and to those who need them.

Hey-- emotional eating is what got a lot of us here. If it helps-- it helps this is a huge part of the board.

Sunday QOTD: (since I'm a night owl I'll post now since many of you will check in tomorrow before I get on )

There has been conversation about how people are experiencing compliments and even advances from the opposite sex. The question is, have you noticed this happening to you and how do you handle it?

It depends on who it is. Usually they are just playing with me so I'll just play back at them-- it's not serious. I've kind of been more interested in cats than men in the last few years really. I'm an ex-stripper so generally I know how to deal with men. It is interesting though-- for me because when I was a teen and started to get the wrong kind of attention from the wrong people-- that had a lot to do with my anorexia. Then I turned it around in my late teens and used it-- almost viciously some times until I met my husband, who accepted me for what I am on the inside. I think the more I got hurt--the worse I got. Back then-- young men weren't the kinder and gentler type they are now back in the beginning stages of aids. There was a definite culture shift in my opinion.

Worf:
I

found out there is a new Jean M. Auel book coming out next Spring which will complete the Clan of the Cave Bear series. I decided it's been so long since I read them (I started when I was 13 or so), I'd get them from the library and start again. I have the first one, and for some reason it's not as big as I remember...but anyway, right now I feel like I want to crawl in bed with all the books and not see daylight until I read them, just to not have to think or deal with being me.

I loved those when I was young--I would love to re-read them all now that they are all out there. I loved Baby!

QOTD for Tuesday: Who is your favorite Disney Character and Why.

Right now Pocahontas. I just watched it awhile back, I have a great great grandmother who was cherokee, had a picture of her before my Dad's house burned down, her on a reservation. Feelin' a bit like her these days...

My3Princes: First of all CONGRATULATIONS! You did so well....

MHO, but it sounds like your interest is driven by an unhappy marriage. Having an affair would certainly put even more of a strain on your marriage. Have you tried taking to DH about this? Maybe the shock factor would be what he needs to put life back into your marriage? Whatever you do, I hope you find happiness.

I should explain this in husbands defense. I quit birth control pills about 2 years ago knowing that was one of the problems with my weight and because my stats are getting super low as far as getting pregnant goes. Husband is 52 and has always had a low sperm count anyway. I know-- too much information...Plus he has difficulties and viagra is just not a good thing to be taking on a regular basis. I moved out of our bedroom when my daughter moved out-- due to a great firm bed we had just bought her and Excessive snoring and husbands refusal to do anything about it. He remains to this day offended by it...and honestly I just don't have much interest in the subject lol. Who I married was a friend--someone who I had a lot of common interest who was smart and not offended by my ultra liberal views. A fellow Bowie fan even. But there was never any attraction on my part. Maybe I shouldn't have married him because of this-- but so far it's worked for 20 years. At the first we had an open marriage but sort of ended it (was never officially axed just implied) with the difficulties it brought. I still feel if there was someone else who could make him happy he should go for it-- I just wouldn't want the gory details, and I told him so awhile back when he met someone his age who seemed great... I dunno it's just us, as long as no one is getting hurt I'm ok with it. And being responsible. I was a Heinlein girl-- Stranger in a Strange Land was my bible. I think if I told him about this he would be ok eventually--he knew about the other one...but as this can't progress anyway-- it's just best. I gave up everything in my life when I got pregnant with my daughter and the thought of just completely sacrificing my freedom just kills me still. I've been working at the same place for 18 years, have 2 kids in college, been married 21, am locked in to this house and I have 19 cats. No-- this has a lot to do with me and giving up that part of myself I guess. It should be said I really wasn't looking for it--it just found me and hit me like a Mack truck. I'm recovering...

Well, there I went again--spent too long on here but it is helping me I think. So I appreciate it. I really hope I haven't offended anyone, I respect your values completely, I know I'm not the norm...

 

[donac]

Good afternoon. COngrats to all the winners.

Just have a minute here. I am baking a cake for tomorrow's birthday breakfast at school. Cooking dinner. Later tonight we have to got and listen to our friend. She spent a week in Haiti working with a medical team and is doing a talk about it. She told us about last week and sent an email to us today so I guess we better go.

QOTD I love blues.

Can't talk any more right now. Need to check on somethings.

Have a nice evening.