Weight Loss Support Group

[Just Susan]

:dontknow:

[renielarson]

Count me in. http://i254.photobucket.com/albums/hh96/renielarson/grouphug2-1.gif

[Sandy222]

Great idea.

[mcelheny]

Me too!

[fizzbyn]

What about TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly)? I hear that there are two in TV. One meets on Monday during the day sometime and the other meets at the Miona rec center on Thursday at 6:00 PM. It's in the list of clubs.

[KathieI]

http://www.millan.net/minimations/smileys/clap.gif (http://www.millan.net)http://www.millan.net/minimations/smileys/clap.gif (http://www.millan.net)Good idea!! http://www.millan.net/minimations/smileys/clap.gif (http://www.millan.net)http://www.millan.net/minimations/smileys/clap.gif (http://www.millan.net)

Why don't we support each other to attend the TOPS meetings.http://www.millan.net/minimations/smileys/hi5.gif (http://www.millan.net)
They are great and my problem is getting to the meetings. http://www.millan.net/minimations/smileys/ruminating.gif (http://www.millan.net)

[center]Sounds like a deal to me!!http://www.millan.net/minimations/smileys/budhug.gif (http://www.millan.net)

And let's not forget to support our sistah's for breast cancer as well!! http://www.millan.net/minimations/smileys/ribbons/pink.gif (http://www.millan.net)

[chelsea24]

I think we should have a support group here online. Topps is fine, but I'm not one to go to those meetings and some of us aren't here in TV. But, I think if we can be in this forum and vent or brag out loud about what we did each day, that would be very helpful. OK, I'll start. Today I had a absolutely wonderful cheesy onion soup along with my burger. Should have gone with either the burger or the soup, but not both. And those four chocolate chip cookies should have been avoided. So, I personally did not have a good eating day. Anyone care to join me in true confessions? It can be like a personal journal, but with the support of others going through their good or bad days. ???

[nONIE]

hmmm, I must confess Sistah chels,
I ate a half a pound of peanut butter fudge tonite in one sitting. This was after a crispy orange chicken bowl . OINK OINK!! :redface:

Sure hope this helps,now Im on a major guilt trip!!

[chelsea24]

Ms. Nonie, the point is not to make ourselves feel guilty. The point is to make ourselves aware of what and how we are eating. (on a personal note: I'm going to erase that word "guilty" from your vocabulary!) :-*

[renielarson]

Ok..here I go

I've lost 15 pounds since February and have 20 to go. I count calories and limit myself to 1125 a day. I kinda use the old Weight Watchers formula of 75 calories equals 1 point and I keep my points to 15 or less a day. I think their formula has changed but this worked for me back in 2000 so I'm sticking to it again.

Confession time: I hated soy products with a passion! Gagged just thinking about them. But, I like food and wanted to be able to eat lots of it and feel full. So, we (yes, my hubby is doing this with me) began exploring soy products and found they were less calories. To make a long story short, we have found soy products online and through taste trials that I (we) do like. Our intake of meat has diminished and our intake of soy products has increased. I draw the line with soy milk, though. I just can't stand it (but I'm not a milk drinker, anyway)!

We also eliminated most oils and use sprays instead. Eating food that is "light", "sugar free", "fat free" and "meatless" is now a standard. We are NOT vegetarians and I still eat a good bar hamburger, fish, and chicken when the fancy hits...but not often.

We eat more veggies, too.

Ok...I could go on, but will stop here. It's working for us, slowly...but working. I've gone down 2 clothing sizes and my goal is to get down 2 more.

Let's keep this thread going because I need the support and encouragement.

[chelsea24]

Great news Brightspot! Keep up the good work! Today was just a venting day for me, I'm going to try to be better tomorrow. I do like the Very Vanilla Soy Milk, but haven't tried other soy products. Anyway, you go girl! :bigthumbsup:

[renielarson]

I'll tell you what I'd love to eat right now...any of the following:

1. Chicken fried steak with mashed potatoes and cream gravy
2. A bloomin' onion from Outback
3. White Castle hamburgers and deep fried mozzarella sticks
4. Homemade cinnamon rolls dripping with icing
5. Deep fried mushrooms with cocktail sauce
6. Three cheese enchiladas with refried beans and rice

Need I say more? I love food! Sigh!

[samhass]

I'll help!!




I'll tell you what I'd love to eat right now...any of the following:

1. Chicken fried steak with mashed potatoes and cream gravy
2. A bloomin' onion from Outback
3. White Castle hamburgers and deep fried mozzarella sticks
4. Homemade cinnamon rolls dripping with icing
5. Deep fried mushrooms with cocktail sauce
6. Three cheese enchiladas with refried beans and rice

Need I say more? I love food! Sigh!

[renielarson]

LOL Samhass! Big help you are g/f.

[Boomer]

http://www.bolthouse.com/html/cs_vanilla_juice_n.html

If you are looking for something with soy that tastes wonderful, this stuff is it. The protein in it gives it some staying power, too, which always helps. The problem is that it is too good and you just want to drink the entire bottle. But if you behave yourself, you can get this stuff to get you through as lunch or breakfast, maybe with some fruit and a few walnuts or almonds. Click on the nutrition info and it will tell you calories, etc.

There are lots of different things offered by Bolthouse Farms in the grocery stores around here. But this is my favorite. The web site will tell you more.

Boomer

[renielarson]

I just can't do liquids for meals. I need something to sink my teeth into.

Will pass it on to my hubby...he may like it.

Never seen that brand here but will look closer next time I'm at Whole Foods.

Thanks!

[galady]

Good morning ladies,
I read these forums every morning and have found all the discussions very information and enjoyable. This topic has hit the spot for me. We have been trying to sell our house for over a year--so I am very, very depressed and eating has become my best friend. Before sitting down to read this morning, I baked corn muffins ( a chill in the air was my excuse), put plenty of butter and honey of each muffin, a pot of tea and I was ready to read to enjoy. Now, I am putting away the muffins, honey and butter and going to start once again to regain my old self and not use food as my quick feel better fix.

I went to Curves yesterday to "sign up", a young women told me she was just setting up and could not talk to me--what a pain, I was pumped to start getting back in shape for my active life style in TV.

Thanks for letting me vent--I will no longer have muffins or pastry when reading the forum, a small step but I hope just the beginning.

[mom2five]

This is a great idea.

I too am an emotional eater and and was in binge cycle after getting some bad news.

But for the last 10 days I have pulled myself together and I am doing much better.

My basic approach to healthy eating is to eat as close to natural as possible. I eat mostly fresh fruits and vegetables and lean meats. I limit processed foods as much as possible. Try to avoid white foods like sugar , flour etc. I prefer to eat my calories so I drink only water and coffee(my weakness) and tea. I prefer to eat fruit rather than drink it so I only drink fruit juice very occasionally.

I do not count calories. I prefer to limit the kind of foods that I eat, eat only when hungry and eat only until full.

I am so glad you guys started this thread so now we can all work together to meet our goals.

Good luck everyone.

Nancy

[mcelheny]

Thank you for helping me to get honest. I have been chubby all my life. I have tried every weight lost program. Only time I have been thin is when I was depressed! Today is the day I will eat healthy!!! I don't care for vegetables but love every fat and sugar food! I have had two fruits,small omelet and coffee. I was just going to make the bagel or toast but ...thanks to you... I am cutting it out. I weigh myself every morning and will let you know each day how I am doing!!! Good luck everybody. I love success stories.

[Barefoot]

Because it is my last week in TV until October, we are eating out twice a day. Or at least that's my excuse! I find I am affected by other people's food choices ... I want what they're having! Time enough to start a diet when I get back to Canada.

Brightspot, sounds like you're doing everything right .. congratulations. And keep up the good work!

[samhass]

Watch "I Can Make You Thin" on The Learning Channel. Episode 1 is the most important IMHO. Amazing.

[angela]

I found a great web site called spark people (not sure I understand the name). It is loaded with great resources: recipes, restaurant nutrition, exercise, etc. They tell you based on your height and weight how many calories you should consume and you record what you consume each day. They record how many calories and where calories are coming from (carbs, protein, fat) They also will let you put your recipe in and they will give you the nutritional info. There are tons of other resources including support groups. Try it and I'm sure you will be pleased. It is a great web sit and it is FREE. sparkpeople.com

[chelsea24]

Wow, lot's of good info coming through. My new mantra "Today I will be better . . . Today I will be better . . . Today I will be better . . .
http://www.millan.net/minimations/smileys/lotussmiley.gif (http://www.millan.net)

[travelstiles]

I've found the Calorie Count website to be a helpful way of tracking what you eat as well as how many calories are burned doing various activities.
It's free to sign up and lists almost every food you can think of in their database, so it calculates the calories, fat, fiber, etc. for you. You can also access an nutition analysis of how you are doing each day, which lists % Fat, Protein, Carbohydrates, Alcohol, etc. I've also found their guidelines for exercise, calorie requirements, BMI to be helpful.
When I think I'm going to have a challenging day or week ahead, I try to plan meals and exercise in advance. It's a great tool.

http://www.calorie-count.com/

[marianne237]

Have been watching and listening to the TLC channel and the "I Can Make You Thin" program. So far have lost 8 pounds.

[chelsea24]

OK, I'm hiding from a slab of fudge as we speak! :o

[mom2five]

I had a pretty good day today. I attended our Neighbourhood social but managed to eat sensibly.

I was wondering if those interested in supporting each other with weight loss would like to get together in the chat room and exchange ideas. What do you think?

If so what time of day would would be best for you?

Nancy

[Just Susan]

I was having a pretty good food day too....until I got out of bed this morning. The remains of Kilwin's is killing me.

[chelsea24]

Oh Susan, that fudge is killing me! I love it soooooo much. And they're only a short ride away. I'm fighting the urge. :verymad:

[renielarson]

Where can I buy Kilwins in TV? Not sure I really want to know...but, please, please tell me anyway! Never had it before!

[KathieI]

This a "weight loss" support group??

You guys are making me HUNGRY!!

http://www.millan.net/minimations/smileys/nutssmiley.gif (http://www.millan.net)

[Just Susan]

OMG if I can speak for both Chelsea and me...we should not tell you! Right, Chels? On the other hand why should you be thin while we are being sidetracked away from our diet by...K...I...L...W..I...N...S! Yummy.

Kilwin's The Villages
1108 Main Street

The Villages, FL 32159
Phone:1-352-430-3600

Fax: 352-430-3605
Owner: Jerry & Lisa Dallaire

Now open! Kilwin's Chocolate Shoppe in The Villages of Florida opened Easter weekend, 2006. Owners Jerry and Lisa Dallaire are thankful to the residents of The Villages who each seemed to want to be the first person in the store! We wish Jerry and Lisa much success with their newest Kilwin's Shoppe.

This is a chain. We first came upon it in St. Augustine. I was so glad it wasn't close to home. Alas soon it will be and it is soooo good. Come on it's chocolate good chocolate and worse yet they have ice cream too...really should not be legal.

Gotta tell you, sorry about this but they have stores in MI. Here's their website...
http://www.kilwins.com/stores/retail.phtml

Oh that was so mean of me ;D ;D :-* :-* ;)

[Just Susan]

Kathie it takes a real woman to read these posts...chin up girl and march forward with strength and determination!!!

[renielarson]

Kilwin's is located in the nearest city to me...where I shop almost every weekend.

Doggone you Susan...

[chelsea24]

Yes, that's where I first had Kilwin's Fudge, in Michigan. We used to go to MacKinaw Island every year and I would eat my way through the vacation! Didn't put on pounds so easy then. >:( It's simply the best.

[renielarson]

Chelsea...Mackinaw Island Fudge....doesn't matter who makes it there...it's all good....

I'm getting very very hungry for chocolate.....where's the handcuffs and chains?

[samhass]

My gourmet cook neighbor had a lovely meal for us this evening. Barefoot and Fireboy joined us. We are NOT skinnier after tonight.

[Just Susan]

I am not skinnier either. Tom cooked tonight, gourmet that he is we had grilled cheese sandwiches (which he burned) and Tomatoe soup...I consoled myself with the last of the Kilwin's.
My goal is to start our diet Monday. Until then if it is not tied down I'm eating it!

[renielarson]

I skipped dinner because I ate all the meatballs and pasta my grandsons didn't eat today...which was all of it

SIGH

[Just Susan]

I still luv ya my leetle chubby cheeks ;)

[Barefoot]

Funny isn't it, how we always plan to start a diet on a Monday. Or on the first of a month. Or January 1.

And then, knowing a diet is ahead, we eat everything that isn't tied down and gain 5 lbs before we start the diet.

Having said that, I'll start my diet the minute I get back to Canada. :-* That means I can eat lots of ice cream and chocolate chip cookies on the way home!

[Just Susan]

Have a safe and enjoyable trip home Bare. You know if we could find someone to adopt you maybe you could be full time....hmmmm.

Quitting a habit is always easier if it doesn't start today. ;D

[Barefoot]

Susan&Tom

I figure it is OK to pull a hijack. Topicop :cop: isn't fat, so he skips this thread.

I have a better idea than adoption. In the spirit of friendship you two can get a divorce and marry us. That way we can be frogs like every one else. ;D Not sure how you would explain it to your kids though.

[samhass]

Now there's a double wedding I would love to attend. :beer2:

[Just Susan]

Hmmm very interesting proposal....I'll ask the kids what they think. ;D :-* ;)

[renielarson]

Mr. Bright could officiate since he's an Internet Ordained Minister... :yikes:

I'll be the matron of honor and wear a marvelous hat!

[Just Susan]

Man this is so off topic...and I don't care, cause I don't know where else to answer you. I talked to our kids...they were not thrilled with the idea of their Mom and Dad divorcing...seems they think it is cool to have their original parents intact. However they did want to help with Bare and Rick's dilemna. So being good California kids they worked out this plan.
We can do it, but Bare must marry me and Rick must marry Tom. They also wanted us all to live together so that visiting would not be complicated. This makes it necessary to have a big house, so I'm thinking location-wise, we pool our money and move to one of the Bridgeports.
Comments?

[samhass]

Yes, Susan!!!!!!!!!!!!! :agree: :agree: :agree: :agree: :agree:

[Just Susan]

I knew you would Sam...gotta keep family close!

[samhass]

Amen to that. So, I was bad today at Crispers. I had a Tuxedo Bombe. It was a big chocolate thing filled chocolate mousse and had 4 dollops of whipped cream with it. Kathi brought a cake, so I had that for dessert. When I left there, we went out to dinner with friends. I'll never get skinny like this. I forgive myself, though. It was good!

[renielarson]

And I ate Egg Beaters for breakfast then a fungus chicken product in a Chinese stir fry for dinner....YIKES :yikes:

Your Crispers selection is what I really want!

[samhass]

Oh my Gosh...What the H is a fungus chicken???? I may never eat again after hearing that.

[Just Susan]

Do you know you can get high from fungus???? No wonder you have been so silly tonight. Ever heard of "shrooms"?

Fungus chicken....yuk!

We had Chinese food without MSG. Brought home lots of left overs...probably won't have to cook much this weekend...Monday the dreaded diet begins....I hope.

[renielarson]

A product made by the Quorn company. Look it up...I'm way too tired to explain it.

[renielarson]

Susan....running to store right now to buy more Quorn products...

Feeling high is a good thing!

;D ;D ;D

(uh...for those who don't know me, I'm joking)

[Just Susan]

Okay I looked it up and this is what I found...

Quorn... literally vomit-inducing?
I do feel slightly concerned that the Quorn company did not label the packaging with the fact that Quorn has been known to cause adverse reactions in people ...
http://www.calorie-count.com/forums/post/26841.html - 36k - Cached - Similar pages

Sorry this did not move me any closer to trying this product...vomit inducing...double yuk!

[renielarson]

:barf: 1rnfl

How long til topicops kill this thread ??? ??? ???

Not sure they appreciate our sense of humor. :dontknow:

[Just Susan]

Honestly this thread is helping me to get on with the life style change I need to embrace...actually we. We are both over weight right now, something new for both of us.

The diet, which will probably be South Beach is just to kick start the weight loss. It is a diet that takes it off around your waist first, life style changes will follow.

We have started walking a mile to 2 miles everyday and/or doing a yoga session.

What is helpful about this thread to me is...

1. The light hearted bantering which develops supportive friendships...and please anyone reading this thread this is not an exclusive banter...please join in.

2. And reading the honest admissions of those of us who are still not quite taking the whole weight loss thing seriously. It lets me know that I am not the only one who is procrastinating. Each day the motivation is growing.

Bright you have lost 15 lbs already and are sticking to your diet and are inspiring me to do the same (even if you do eat vomit-inducing fungus). Besides I can't let you look that much better...I'm sort of competitive. ;)

20-30 lbs is my goal...more than that and I am worried about wrinkles...fat keeps wrinkles from showing cause they are all sort of poofed out. Don't want to lose too much. Sink, sag, and flap is not for me.

[Hyacinth Bucket]

Hi All, I just finished reading all of the post. Can not decide which food I want first though.

When we were in TV I could not believe how fast I was gaining weight - I was exercising more and watching what I ate. When we got home I immediately lost the weight I gained - scale in TV was not accurate. You have no idea how relieved I felt.

I think I have tried every single diet man has created. One of the problems I have is I like the diet foods to much. And will honestly openly admit, I like all foods.

If I drink, I prefer the drinks that have calories compared to the dry wines.

Curves - tried that twice. I found it to confusing for me. Could not remember what to do when. Not being into exercise I find if I make a commitment to a friend it works 100%, commitment to myself works 5% at best.

I am more like Barefoot re: exercising.

Now I am limited on what foods I can eat and the amount I can have - limitation is on all low calorie foods that contain Vitamin K. No longer can have large salads to fill me up. For me this is a problem - there really isn't a substitute for these items.

This is getting rather long, I might end up feeling sorry for my self - directionally challenged so I can't attend Curves, unable to eat items with Vitamin K, like the diet foods a bit to much and can over eat on them, Quoron along with all the diet pills are not my thing (afraid of dying or getting seriously ill from them), never had or heard of a Tuxedo Bombe (will put it on my to do list), or Mackinaw Island Fudge. and Kilwins (whatever they are), will also have to put the last two items on my to do list.

So as I prepare to go to France tomorrow morning, to learn more about Provence, so that I can sell more trips to France I will create a mantra for myself like Chels did - I will try everything that is new and delicious looking, I will try everything that is new and delicious looking ;)

I can completely understand where all of you are coming from and identify with all of you 100%

See ya when I get back.

Love ya all

HB PS In my life time I have lost more weight than I can recall.

[KathieI]

So as I prepare to go to France tomorrow morning, to learn more about Provence, so that I can sell more trips to France I will create a mantra for myself like Chels did - I will try everything that is new and delicious looking ;) HB

PROVENCE??? Forget the diet, that is by far my most favorite food in the world... I didn't know you were going there, now I'm really jealous. Hope you have a wonderful trip and enjoy the great food and wine especially. Have a ball, woman, I envy you. Bon Voyage!!

Love ya, Kathie :redface:

[redwitch]

I kept trying to avoid this thread. Finally got brave and opened it up and started reading. Cringed a little as I sat here munching on tortilla chips and drinking my Coke. I was one of those people who could eat anything and never gain an ounce. Heck, I even dieted to gain weight to no avail. Then I hit my mid-40s and the pounds started coming on and on and on. Unlike HB, I'm not a big fan of food -- I'm too fussy of an eater and have a few allergies, which makes life difficult at times. Worse, I have no clue how to diet.

I think I'm going to have to break down and find an exercise group that truly interests me. Probably something that combines dance and a swimming pool would probably be my best choice. Anyone know of anything that isn't run by the Wellness or Learning Centers? I don't want to get into something that will end in 6 weeks and I really can't afford to spend a lot of money on this right now.

In the meantime, I love this idea. Maybe you guys can help me figure out a diet that I'll tolerate and, no, I won't give up my Coke Classics -- I've tried the Diet Cokes ... YUCK.

[Barefoot]

I've been eating comfort foods since I left TV with the justification that they're helping me get through a hard time. However there is a problem .. comfort foods are addicting.

Like Hyacinth, in my life I've lost more weight than I can recall! But not permanently. I've loved being a size 6, and I think I still have those clothes somewhere. Probably in the same box as my size 8s. Unfortunately they are 40 years old.

How I wish I could be happy the way I am, and not want to look like the skinny movie stars who are 30 years younger than I am. An impossible dream.

Everyone I know is on a diet, and in six months, everyone I know will be the same weight or more. The big question is not what diet to try, but how to be happy as we are?

[Hyacinth Bucket]

Hello All,

We are now approximately 100 yards from Monaco, the French President is flying in tonight.
I can relate to what Barefoot wrote, Red I can not relate to you at all. I wish I could.

I did not want to open this site at all. I knew if I opened this site my conscious would start nagging me and I would hear all of my sistahs talking to me.

I did not have any candy, bread and some other foods I would love to have had.

So thank you all for keeping these items on my no no list. Without you I would be enjoying the food.

Oh well.

Bare do you want my clothing to store in your attic also. I have not been able to part with smaller size clothing because I say to myself "Someday ....."

I find I am just like Mark Twain who said he has no problem quitting smoking - does it every time after he smokes his last cigarette. I can replace food with cigarettes.

Love ya all,

HB

[beady]

Maybe we should all get together and pool our boxes of skinny clothes . We could have a huge sale and ease our guilt collectively. Always helps to share with girlfriends , this could work. :clap2: :clap2:

[Just Susan]

The thing that I have found that helps me the most to get rid of my clothes is to give them to someone who will get pleasure from them. I work at a Women's Recovery Center and often the women come in from the streets or detox with nothing. When the choose something I have donated, it makes me feel good. There are also battered women's shelters. Places like these almost always need clothing...homeless shelters also. Just a thought. It works for me.

[Barefoot]

The thing that I have found that helps me the most to get rid of my clothes is to give them to someone who will get pleasure from them.

Susan, good comment - that is the only thing that works for me! Not sure if you have the Salvation Army in the USA or not, but they do excellent work. I am always hauling bags of clothes and household goods over to their store. They employ challenged people to fix any broken stuff, and everything gets sold with proceeds to the needy. Makes it much easier to say goodbye to stuff.

I think I just hijacked this weight loss support group topic; :cop: and this actually should be posted under Nonie's thread about cleaning out her house and barn.

Just ate a chocolate bar, and now I'm regretting it. A minute in the mouth, forever on the hips. As Oprah would say: I'm having a pity party in my mouth. Now this qualified for the Weigh Loss Thread!!

[galady]

When I retired, I gave all my beautiful business outfits to the "Goodwill" along with racks of smaller sized clothing. The only reminders of my thinner days are bags of wonderful, sexy undies! My sister goes crazy everything she visits me and checks to see if I have finally let go of my treasures. She sold her home yesterday and will be moving to TV before me----I finished the ice cream, pie and everything that was sweet yesterday! I'm happy for her, but I "found" TV and wanted to be there a year ago.

Meeting with our realtor this afternoon---for the last two months our listing has been incorrect, the wrong city in the description. I am heading into the kitchen for toast and jelly.

Thanks for letting me tell you about my secret stash.

[chelsea24]

OMG galady that's my kind of eating! I'm such an emotional eater. I eat when I'm happy and I eat when I'm sad. I fight with myself all the time. http://www.millan.net/minimations/smileys/fishfightsmiles.gif (http://www.millan.net)


I call myself a Meter Eater. If the emotional meter zooms up, I celebrate with food. And when the emotional meter drops down, I comfort myself with food.

You sound like me, a Meter Eater! :o Think I'll have another bagel. NO YOU WON'T! YES I WILL! NO YOU WON'T! YES I . . . . . .

[nONIE]

Chels,

my big problem is, I dont even fight with myself. If it looks good I eat it. At least you talk to yourself about it. gives you some time to think about it before you actually do it, so theres hope for you.

Im like the cookie monster on Sesame Street. gobble, gobble gobble, yum, yum yum! Cant stop long enough to think about it. I think Im hopeless! :(

[Just Susan]

Here are some thoughts inspired by these recent posts:
1. I don't really believe in the Hi-jacking of a thread. In other words I think what we are witnessing here is friends comfortable enough with each other to express our thoughts, wander a bit, as women do and then wander back to the original topic. Who is it that gets offended by this???? Not me.

All women are capable of doing/thinking at least 10 things at once and that is how our brains work so how is that hijack? We get it, and this is, the FEMININE FORUM.

I believe that as women, food is a part of our lives on every level. We are the providers of nutrition, the watchers of healthy lifestyle, the hostesses that wants to welcome and please our guests, the cleaner-upper that knows how much food costs and doesn't want to waste that little bit left on that plate...etc. All of these adult thoughts play in our brains right next to the self comforting thoughts of the "meter eaters" and the "cookie monsters"...(my personal downfall).

Now with that premise established;

My Question......How is giving up food, any different from giving away clothes tied to memories, leaving carefully chosen possessions behind, selling family homes, that when gone...end an era, duties we are no longer needed for are mourned. We are all at an age of transition and sometimes there is a huge sense of loss that accompanies that transition...and we don't want to let go because then we must face the unknown.

The good news...no GREAT NEWS is that all of us (and anyone who wants to join in this wonderful sisterhood) are in the same boat. We can and will be there for each other as support in whatever area we need. We can have one group for cookie monsters, one group for healthnuts and one for the maids in the middle, and acceptance for all.

If we embrace the future with acceptance of "what is" and actively work on making it our little slice of heaven, knowing that we bring to that future all that matters...ourselves, our love, and our memories. The things will become just things and the bad habits will be weights around our legs that are slowing us down.

What is keeping you from dancing in the square? If that is what you want, then put down the fork and excercise. If just being there is your thing, then imagine each item in your home in TV. Does it work? No? Give it to someone who really needs it and let them make memories of their own.


I am hoping to leave a lot of the weight and the stuff behind and join all my new friends soon. http://www.millan.net/minimations/toolminis/mermaid3.gif (http://www.millan.net)

P.S. oops looks like I pulled a Boomer. ;D

[renielarson]

Susan

Nice post.

So here I go...as Boomer #3 (luv your posts, Boomer! :clap2:)...

For me, it's more than an age transition of letting go. I've always had trouble letting go of anything and everything dear to me.

Losing family and pets to death...I still find myself sitting and taking myself back to the time when...continues to be hard to let go even though I know they are gone.

When I return to my home state of Kansas, I always find the time to drive by hangouts, schools, and houses that, at one time, were so much a part of me...continues to be hard to let go even though those places are way in my past.

I had trouble letting go of my children as they matured. Not that I didn't continue to guide them and watch out for their welfare, but loosening the apron strings wasn't easy.

Then, when they got married and moved away from home..that was a terrible loss for me...knowing I had no choice but to let go and never again have my phone ring off the wall, kids walk in and out of the front door all the time, a houseful of overnight teenagers, proms, homecomings, sport events of which they were personally involved, etc...continues to be hard to not have them home.

Now, let's talk about old clothing. I have been on a teeter totter all my life trying to control weight. Every closet is full of every size of clothing. I hate to pitch any of it, especially now, as I lose weight and can depend on some of those clothes fitting again. I do admit that I wouldn't be caught dead in some of what I have saved because the style is so out of date...and those, I do donate. But, darn it...I have a lot of money invested in 4 closets, 4 dressers/chest of drawers, and 2 chests!...and it continues to be hard to throw everything away and make the commitment that I will never need to go into the extra closets again once I meet my goal.

What about my ancestor's antiques? Most of those I will get rid of. They are only special to me, because like many others, my children aren't interested. Now, why on earth can I pitch that stuff and not feel so attached? Quandary.

Food? Oh yeah...I do miss eating whatever I want whenever. So, when the hankering hits, I eat a bit to take my craving away. I'm doing okay giving some favorite foods up...but it would not continue to be hard to give them up all the time because I never, ever, absolutely, positively, without a doubt ever plan on doing that!

And...by the way...check out my new avatar! 1rnfl

Enough rambling for now...hubby is out of town for 5 days and I'm filling time! wav

[BETHPAGE BLACK]

Hi Ladies..so glad this forum has posted..Boy..do we all need support...Losing weight (and keeping it iff) has to be the hardest thing in the world.. I have lost 63 lbs on WW 10 years ago and I struggle every day to keep it off. I go up a few..down a few..but it is a constant battle..I used to do the point system but now I do "core"..which is basically eating more natural foods, brown rice wheat pasta fruit veggies lean meats and just eating healthy until you are satisfied..It works really well..but TEMPTATIONS are everywhere.. With all the restaurants in TV..we need support and restraint..Of course we also have every form of exercise available to us if we use it...Should also joint a walking group while talking about the support group...
Keep up the good work everyone..and when you slip..get up and keep going! Laura

[renielarson]

zx...laura

I use the point system but I find myself eating what you call the "core"....albeit fruit. Fruit has too many calories for me and not enough substance so I stay away from it. However, I do take supplements to make up for what my diet lacks.

I find that I eat much healthier when counting calories. In fact, I have have found a wonderful product...TVP...textured vegetable protein (soy)....that is as close to ground beef as you can get and I love it. Plus, it's much lower in calories. We order it online and found a company that sells it with a brown food coloring so it even looks like ground beef. I swear by it.

Keep up the good work....it's not a diet but a way to eat healthier.

[Just Susan]

Welcome Laura. You sound like the voice of reason...always nice to have a level head around. I agree WW is a great way to lose weight, however for me it requires an awful lot of attention.

This time I think I will be watching calories and kicking up the excercise.

Bright, your "sister" approves of the new avatar. It is perfect. Where did you find it? It is the same artist as mine I believe.

Note to all who read this thread...Bright also eats some kind of fungus that is advertised as a vomitous concoction...soy is not beef! And Bright dear if a person is hungry enough they will love anything they eat. I love you dearly Bright, but I shudder when I think of some of the things you eat.

[Barefoot]

I call myself a Meter Eater. If the emotional meter zooms up, I celebrate with food. And when the emotional meter drops down, I comfort myself with food.

Chels, I didn't know what it was called .. Meter Eater, that is me to a T!! ::)

[Mintjulep]

Chels, I didn't know what it was called .. Meter Eater, that is me to a T!! ::)



We all have funny eating nicknames.
I'm an Eager Eater!!!

Wish I could be eager on the more healthful things, instead of the junk...

[mcelheny]

Brought a food scale. :)

[Just Susan]

So did I mc, over the weekend, took it out of the box today. Now I have to figure out what to do with it. Do you know? I really am serious.

[mcelheny]

Mine is an electronic one from weight watchers so it is suppose be pretty easy. It contains values for over 450 foods. I had Chinese with Beady tonight and my take out box weighs 533oz. Guess it is time to start reading the directions!! :dontknow:

[beady]

mcelheny...... shush.... ::)

I'm supposed to be eating healthy.

[mcelheny]

Beady, oh...ok...I won't tell anybody!

[renielarson]

:hot: :2excited: I've been so good about changing my eating habits and I'm now down into the next "decade" of weight....over half way to my goal. So far, I've lost 20 lbs. with another 18 to go. :hot: :2excited:

Keep posting all the pics of the goodies here so I can lick my screen like Samhass. My vivid imagination will take over and I'll be a happy camper.... 1rnfl

[Just Susan]

Congratulations, Bright. http://i274.photobucket.com/albums/jj277/lake21brook/36_1_551.gif You are going to inspire me yet.! http://i274.photobucket.com/albums/jj277/lake21brook/36_1_751.gif I am really proud of you. http://i274.photobucket.com/albums/jj277/lake21brook/36_1_111.gif

[Barefoot]

OK Bright, I am really inspired. You have done incredibly well, and obviously you are still very motivated. Good for you girl, keep it up! We'll all be cheering you on. :clap2:

I've been really slothful since I left TV and came back to Canada, feeling sorry for myself, not exercising, and eating a lot of comfort food. Except now I don't feel comfortable at all, just bulky. I don't need to lose a whole bunch of weight, I just want to get a grip on my eating before I start adding dress sizes.

One of my problems is that I always want to lose 10 lbs a week .. I'm really into instant gratification. And then, as soon as I reach my ideal weight, I just abandon all common sense! And soon I need to diet again.

Starting today, I promise myself that I'm really going to get back to eating sensibly.

[samhass]

Oh my, Bare. I'm the same way. I want to be thin the same week I start a diet!!

[chelsea24]

They called me from Curves! They're putting my face on Milk Cartons! :o

[Sidney Lanier]

THANK YOU THANK YOU

I had dessert three times in the last two weeks. Each time it was worth every calorie. I did not have 20 or is it 40 desserts because of all of you. Part of my feels extremely good about this and the other part would have liked to try all the desserts.

I am trying to figure out how I can lose the weight from all the desserts I did not eat. If I ate the desserts I would have gained the weight. Any suggestions?

As for being thin, I do not want to wait a week like my Sistahs, the following morning is in my thinking. That to me would be the perfect time.

See you all soon. Finally free wifi and not a charge of 25 Euros for two hours.

Hyacinth Bucket

[Barefoot]

They called me from Curves! They're putting my face on Milk Cartons! :o

:a20: Don't worry Chels, we won't rat you out to Curves!.

I hear that if they do ever find you, they'll make you do four circuits every visit instead of one. Run fast, Chels.

[Just Susan]

HB,
To not eat dessert in France is a sin! To diet in France is a mortal sin. To diet, is American, when in France do what the French do...eat everything, use small plates and walk it off.

Hope you are having a great time.

[mcelheny]

I am driving north by myself and with a little pug I can't leave in a hot car so.. it is all drive through food etc... He has panic attacks and barks too loud to leave in the hotel. This will put on a few lbs in the 3 day drive.
Then back to exercise and eating like Chel!!

[renielarson]

mcelheny...driving home to NY?

[mcelheny]

Yes,Fredonia NY southwest corner of the state. There is a college there. I better go to bed.
Bless you...elementary teachers are angels!

[chelsea24]

So, today I did a really stupid thing and didn't realize it until I came home. Went to lunch with a friend at Crisper's and ordered one of their great flatbreads. Since, I am now on a restricted diet, I ordered the kinds of veggie one, and I ate the whole thing! :o Completely forgot my doctor told me to especially do portion control! Beady!!!!! You have to watch me from now on! LOL

[beady]

Okay Chels,
I am on alert, portion control it is, count on it.
I'll expect you to cover for me as well. It will do us both good. :bigthumbsup:

[Barefoot]

This dieting stuff can be very confusing. Chels, a vegetarian flatbread sounds like a healthy choice, but one reason it is so tasty .. it is dripping with oil. Didja know that a Caesar salad has more calories than a Big Mac?

[Just Susan]

Please refer to the link below. It makes dieting unnecessary.
https://www.talkofthevillages.com/smf/index.php/topic,7293.msg60588.html#msg60588

[chelsea24]

Awwww and I was just going to start again! Now I'll just buy one of those "Men's" Mirrors! :bigthumbsup:

[Just Susan]

Definitely faster and easier...but not as healthy. I'm going to start soon....I hope.

[beady]

If you read another post here on TOTV you will see I invented a new diet yesterday. It's called the Dessert South Beach Diet :dontknow: :dontknow:

I have been very faithful to the original for the past week, then Mah Jongg and brownies derailed the progress, but what delicious brownies and what fun I had.

That's my prob.....great at home alone, dedicated and motivated.... tempt me and I am a goner.

Guess I will have to sentence myself to solitary confinement for a month.... 1rnfl 1rnfl