Wednesday, May 31, 2006

Good Morning

   Attentiveness is the path to true life;
Indifference is the path to death.
The attentive do not die;
The indifferent are as if they are dead already.

-Dhammapada

      I miss one day of not eating a banana and I woke up from a charlie horse.  Yikes, do I have to eat them everyday?  What was the other thing someone suggested as the bananas go bad so quickly.  I like mine green on the tips.

  I feel pretty rested now and am looking forward to my last night and then off for 7 wonderful days.  I was looking at the schedule and noticed we are short all weekend which means they will call me all weekend.  Leave me alone.  I want my time off.  Rick has relatives in town and I want to visit and have fun.  Whaaaa

                             

   Last night I did good with my eating.  Lean gourmet lasagna, huge salad, 2 rice cakes and popcorn.  This was spread out over 12 hours.  I had shredded wheat when I got home and I have no idea what or if Rick has anything planned for supper.   I hope he does as I have no plans.

   I have been reading about the new camera and will be buying some extra memory from the man who sold it to me.  One thing the reviews say is the camera's software messed up his computer running.   We shall see.  I have decided if I don't like it I can relist it and go for the the Sony but I think I will be happy with. One of the nurses at work has one and loooovvvvveeeeesssss it.

   On John Scalzi he shared a link showing some pictures that had been repaired using photoshop.  It is unbelievable what you can do.  You don't even need to take good pictures as long as you don't mind spending some time fixing them.  Check them out.brian dilg photography :: services :: imaging - imaging

   Well, I am going to add some flowers to my flower journal and then get in the shower.  Have a good night all.

 


One more night to go

                   

   Isn't that graphic cute and exactly how I feel right now.  I had a busy night but not much lifting which was good.  My back isn't up to it.  I paid for my camera and will now await its arrival.  I am trying to find out what the next size memory card will be so I can order that right away also.  I can't wait to play with it.

    Well I am off to bed.  Talk to you all later.

Tuesday, May 30, 2006

My Senior Moment

   Ok, back to camera's.  I had decided on the Sony because I really like the stabilizer feature for zooming.  My 2nd choice was the Kodak Z740, also a great camera but no stabilizer.  So what do I do?  Bid on the Kodak thinking I was bidding on the Sony.  Of course if it had been the Sony I would be outbid, but since it is this one and I made a mistake I will probably win it.  That is fine except I will have to use a tripod for when I take some zoom pictures which kind of takes the spontaneity out of it. 

       Sometimes I have to shake my head at the things I do.  The auction gets done in a little under 2 hours and I will find out if I won or not.  The good thing will be if I did I saved enough money I can buy some extra memory right away as I take way to many pictures to be happy with a small memory.  Wish me luck.

      

      Well I am now the proud owner of the above camera.  I saved myself around 100 buying this one and I think I will be happy with it.  My husband thinks I won't so we will see.  I don't think there will be that many times I use the zoom at 10 x which is where they say it shakes.  Here are the reviews from people who own one and I heard from Deb from jckfrstross who loves hers.  Now I need more memory and some filters.  I wonder if my filters from my 35 mm will fit on it?

 EasyShare Z740 Digital Camera (Kodak-8582553) - Imaging Resource - Shopping Co

 

I Need a Change

                                 

        For whatever reason I am just not losing anymore weight.  I go up and down 5 pounds, but nothing is staying off.  I am not exercising as much since I can't do my water aerobics and I just don't get the same workout at the gym without it.  My weight loss has ground to a stop.  I need to do something to kick start me again.  This does get very old constantly having to think about what to do to lose weight. 

   One of the problems is your body will start storing however many calories you eat.  If you stay at the same calorie level that is what your body will store figuring that is what you need to maintain your weight.  I had been careful about making sure I varied my calories from 1100 to 1800 and not in a regular pattern but lately I got lazy and ate about the same amount of calories everyday.  So I have to eat less to get my body to not store it.  I know all of this but haven't been giving it the thought I used to.

   You would think with all the changes I have made in my diet that that would be enough.  I exercise when I never used to.  I don't use real sugar, drink no fat milk, no buns and very little bread.  I never fry foods, don't use gravy.  All of these changes should be enough.  Why does it have to be SO DIFFICULT!

   Anyway, onwards.  I hope everyone had a great weekend.  We were busy at work and I hurt my back yesterday.  2 more days and I am off for my stretch.  I can't wait.  I worked OB on Saturday which was fun feeding the newborns all night.  And I get paid for it! 

   Yesterday I just enjoyed being home and outside.  My husband found a checkbook when he rode to his Mom's on his bike.  We called the people up and it turned out this elderly couple was at the cemetary putting flowers on a grave and someone stold her purse from her car.  They were so upset.  They said they saw the young man standing there but thought he was there to put flowers on also.  They parked close and had their backs turned for only a moment when he grabbed it and drove off.  Fortunately there was only $3.00 dollars in it.  He drove along going through the purse and throwing what he didn't want out the window.  She got her drivers lisence and credit cards back plus the one check book but was still missing one.  Terrible people preying on old people.  I hope they catch him.

   My back yard has been really interesting lately.  Last night I looked out and we had a large racoon, 2 young bucks, a couple of cardinels, and some other birds, bunnies and squirrels milling around eating out of the feeders.  I told me husband it looked like a petting zoo out there.  I couple of the young squirrels will come right up waiting while you fill the feeders or birdbaths.  The youngs bucks are starting to get their horns which are still all fuzzy and they look sleek and pretty.  I haven't seen any new babies yet but soon I know we will have baby deer visiting the feeders.  You have to be careful as they show no fear and will come up to you but if you try and pet them Mom will come crashing out of the woods to tear you apart.  We learned that the hard way.  Also they are usually covered with ticks so I really am not that tempted to pet them anymore.

   I am going to the gym shortly to see if I can work off a few pounds and then mail a comb I sold.  My wild and crazy hair is getting trimmed today also and then work.  It is suppose to be in the 80's all week so I can't wait for the weekend .  Fishing here I come.

    My husband is going to be hooking up our computer to cable soon.  I can't wait because it is hard to visit some of my favorite journals because it takes so long for the graphics to load if they load at all.  I won't know what to do with all the extra time!

       

    My granddaughter had her first dance recital yesterday.  She does tap and ballet.  Isn't she lovely!

Sunday, May 28, 2006

Windy Weather

                                                        

    I am sitting here nervously awaiting the arrival of my husband.  He decided to go on a bike ride today and rode out to Adams preserve from here which is around 30+ miles both ways.  The temp is 93 out and I think around 85% humidity.  Winds are gusting at 30 miles an hour.  He called my son around 40 minutes ago and said he didn't know if he could make it back as his legs were getting very tired so to stick around in case he needs a ride.  I tried to call him back to chew him out and send my son after him and no answer.  Since he goes into A-fib at the drop of a pin I am upset this 54 year old man decided to try this.  If he isn't home soon I am going looking for him.   Men!

   Well my husband came dragging his sheepish self home admitting that he had made a huge mistake trying to ride out there.  It turned out to be 47 miles round trip and when he got to the 20 mile mark he realized he was in trouble.  His hip was killing him and the wind was horrible.  I chewed him out but was sooooooo glad to see he made it home OK.  My son who rides 50 to 60 miles on his bike easily was shocked his Dad would try it as he knows how hard it is under these conditions.  We do 14 miles easily but not when it is like this outside.

   One more day of work.  Yippy. 

Saturday, May 27, 2006

No Camera

                                                        

    Well I woke up and checked ebay and was outbid.  I am not very upset because after I bid I noticed they were from Iowa and I would have had to pay state tax on top of everything else.  There is a Kodak easyshare I am thinking of bidding on or I will wait until monday to bid on another Sony.  Decisions, decisions.

    The weather is hot and humid here.  My legs are so swollen I think I will need to take my lasix even though I work.  This type of weather seems to make me retain fluid really bad.  I probably am up at least 3 pounds in water retention.  So fun to get older.

    Work was good last night and flew by.  2 more nights to go and then I am off Monday.  My nights at work at least seem to go by as fast as my days off.  

    I did good on my diet again yesterday.  I had some sugar free angel food cake with strawberries soaked in whey low for dessert.  Yummy.  Perfect for a hot humid day.

   Hope everyone has a great weekend. 

                                                      

  

We walked among the crosses
Where our fallen soldiers lay.
And listened to the bugle
As taps began to play.

The Chaplin led a prayer
We stood with heads bowed low.
And I thought of fallen comrades
I had known so long ago.

They came from every city
Across this fertile land.
That we might live in freedom.
They lie here 'neath the sand.

I felt a little guilty
My sacrifice was small.
I only lost a little time
But these men lost their all.

Now the services are over
For this Memorial Day.
To the names upon these crosses
I just want to say,

                                             Thanks for what you've given
                                           No one could ask for more.
                                          May you rest with God in heaven
                                             From now through evermore.

Friday, May 26, 2006

Short entry

   Hello everyone.  Hope everyone is going to have a nice holiday weekend and a long one.  I am working but that is just fine as I love the holiday pay.

  Work was busy last night.  We had one lady who decided it was taking too long to pick up her supper tray so she threw it on the floor!   It had been 5 minutes since she called.  Yes she is alert,,...manners.Apparently was never taught any.  I can never understand rudeness and bad manners in people.  She said she wanted a nurse assigned to take care of just her.  We told her about the different agencies in town where she could hire a nurse to do private duty and she was really hot.  "For what I am paying for this room I don't need to pay even more for my own nurse!"

Could you imagine what that would be like if each patient had their own nurse on every floor.  Just imagine what your bill would be like then. Anyway it was otherwise a good night.

   I ate well last night, stuck to my plan and refused the cookies someone made.  I wore my inserts in my Croc's and they were pretty comfy.  I had some pre packaged tapioca pudding though that was nasty.  When I make the sugar free and cook it on the stove you can't taste the difference but you sure can getting the little packs of it.  I will make mine at home and bring it from now on.

    The bid on my camera will be done in 20 hours.  So far I am still the high bidder but that will could change quickly tomorrow.  I won't be awake when they close so hope someone doesn't increase their bid by a quarter each time until I am outbid.  I have bid as high as I plan to though so if I don't get this one will go get the one at staples.

    My insurance company finally paid my bill and the hospital adjusted my bill so instead of $7000.00 I now only owe $245.  What a huge,huge relief.  I was feeling pretty selfish about my breast reduction when I saw how much out of pocket is was going to cost me.  Now I can be happy again with my choice. I can justify buying the camera because I need a new one for my on line business.

    Well, Rick is making supper and I want to soak my foot before work.  I am noticing some improvement and it wasn't so painful when I got our of bed this afternoon.  Thanks again for all the suggestion.  Now does anyone know how to make me skinny and beautiful overnight?  Just kidding. 

   I have been reading all my alerts to your journals but don't get to visit each one on my work days.  I don't have enough time but I do read the alerts.

Thursday, May 25, 2006

Camera search

  I am still researching cameras to make sure I get the best I can get for my money.  I have it narrowed down to 3 camera's

1 Digital Cameras - Sony CyberShot DSC-H1 Digital Camera Review, Information, Sp

    This camera is probably the one I like the best.  They have come out with a new model but the reviews don't make me want to have the newer model.

2)EasyShare Z740 Digital Camera (Kodak-8582553) - Imaging Resource - Shopping Co

     This camera has great reviews but the stablizer isn't as good as the Sony.  It is however alot cheaper and the pictures it takes is wonderful

3)EasyShare Z650 Digital Camera (Kodak-8152571) - Imaging Resource - Shopping Co

   Another really good camera for the money.  These are both cheaper then the Sony.  They also use less battery and you can get their docking system for printing some good pictures.  Such a dilema.

    I have bid on the Sony but if I don't get that one I will probably go buy number 1.  It is on close out sale at Staples and I can get it cheaper.  Also a friend of my sons works there and I can give him the money to buy it giving me even more of a discount.

    Back to work tonight.  Stepped on the scales today and my weekend bike and beer trips are showing up.  Back to the grind.  It was fun but there are alot of empty calories in beer.  I wish they made a good tasting light beer but I haven't found one I like and I would rather not drink then drink a bad beer.

    Going for a quick bike ride and then get ready for my 4 nights on.  Hope it is better then last week. 

   I soaked my foot in epsom salts.  Question.  How long do you soak it and cold or warm water.  How often? 

Wednesday, May 24, 2006

Last Day off

                        

   

Baked Custard
2 eggs
2 cups whole milk, scalded
1/3 cup
Whey Low Granular sugars
1/2 tsp. vanilla (optional)
1/4 tsp. salt

Beat eggs, Whey Low, and salt slightly to mix. Stir in scalded milk. Add vanilla. Pour into 6 custard cups or 1 1/2-quart baking dish, and set in pan of hot water (1" deep). Sprinkle a little nutmeg over the top(s). Bake at 350º F for 45 minutes (or just until a silver knife inserted 1" from the edge comes out clean). Immediately remove from oven. Serve chilled.

[Each serving has a caloric value of 104 Calories, a 17% reduction in calories from the same custard made with table sugar.]

   I make this custard with no fat milk, forgot to add that which cuts down on the calories and fat content even more.

      I am so excited as I just found out they are going to start selling my favorite sugar substitute in stores.  I could never find one that didn't have a nasty after taste but Whey Low really does taste just like sugar.  Love it.

Natural Sugar Substitute, Whey Low, Tastes Just Like Sugar

     Well I am writing this with some doubts that it will post. Aol, always keeps you on your toes. I either lose everything as it won't let me save it or it double posts my entry making me look silly. Now I can't change the font or color yet. Hopefull by the time I am done I will be able to.

The week goes by so fast. I was pretty busy but was able to get some housework done and watched some movies. We watched Dirty Filthy Love. No it was not like it sounded. Its a moving about someone with obsessive-compulsive disorder and Tourette syndrome. Since we have a couple of friends with OCD it was interesting and the movie is done nicely, not insultingly.

     I have had my shredding wheat and then a great salad for lunch.  We went to the gym for 2 1/2 hours and I had a great workout but my heel was killing me on the treadmill.   I have been terrible at keeping to my plan. Just because I am exercising doesn't mean I can eat whatever I want. I do get jealous though of people who can eat whatever they want and not gain weight.

A friend at work was talking about her typical meal, meat potatoes of some sort and veggies, dessert every night and usually a snack before bed. They pretty much eat like that everyday because her husband is a real meat and potato type guy. She eats a good breakfast, usually has a sandwich for lunch with chips and never works out. She is thin and has always been thin. I have seen her eat 5 slices of pizza and a large piece of cake at a sitting. I gain weight watching her eat! She burns calories like I burn leaves. It runs in her family.

My family for the most part tends to be large. Except for my brother we all have to watch what we eat. I have one son who takes after me. He is very overweight even though he probably eats less then my skinny son who takes after my husband. My husband eats huge portions at a sitting. He ends almost every night with a candy bar. Although he is now getting a small gut in his middle years he for the most part stays thin. If he ate exactly what I eat he would probably drop 30 pounds in a month. Do I get jealous? Yes! But there is nothing I can do about it so that is that. I meditate and get past the unfairness of it all.

I am still keeping track of my calories but not posting it here. That gets time consuming. I am averaging around 1600 for last week. I would like it to be lower so it is a good thing I will be back to work. I do better lately at work since so many of us are dieting.

I also am going to get Epsom salts for my heel. Thanks Deb and Sugar for the suggestion. It feels better this morning. Maybe the inserts are helping as morning and late evening are the worst.

Also thanks for the comments of my bike ride. I had fun taking the pictures and although it took alot of time to make the page it was fun. Hope to see some of your towns soon.

AAARRRGGGHHH. I am sitting here trying to save my entry and it won't work. What a surprise. Now I will have to copy and paste so I won't lose it.  It is now 3 hours later and I can finally post this.

 

Tuesday, May 23, 2006

Thanks

   Thanks to everyone for their suggestions on what to do with my heel pain.  I bought an insert for my shoes today and I have been using the bottle to roll my foot on.  I take motrin 800 mg 3 times a day.  Hopefully one of them will help.

   My meal plan has been on the lax side this week.  I haven't done much cooking and alot of eating out.  I can feel it in my waist.  I keep thinking I have made alot of changes, but it helps if I eat at home where everything is low fat or low sugar.  I even like sugar free foods these day.  I got some low fat ice cream..... like it, sugar free jello..... love it!  No fat milk,no problem there either.  All of this has to make a difference.  I also am eating a banana a day.  Thanks everyone.  It really did help those darn leg cramps and I have been sleeping until 8:30 every morning!  Unheard of for me. 

    Since we have been riding our bikes I haven't done the gym for a few days so that is on my agenda tomorrow.  I need to lift those weights.  I want to try water aerobics also since the roof is open.  Hope I can get through it without having trouble breathing since I am not taking the inhaler.  I decided it was too expensive and I didn't see that much difference.  Will see how it goes.  Well, I am off to check ebay for a camera.  Take it easy all and make sure and check out my bike ride pictures.  I would love to see pictures of your home towns also.  Cheaper on gas to do it that way.  So take some pictures and let me know when you have them posted.

Ride my Town With me.

    I would like to invite you all to visit my town as seen through our eyes on our bike tripBike Ride Around Sioux City   Welcome to Sioux City, Iowa.

Monday, May 22, 2006

Busy Monday

   Usually Mondays are busy because I have packages to mail but I didn't have a single sale this weekend after the teapot.  Could never make a living at this.  I do have a busy day planned though.  My vacation check came, yippy so I need to go to the band and then Rick and I are going to repeat our bike ride from the other day, minus the beers and take pictures.  The sun is starting to break out and it isn't suppose to rain until this afternoon.

    My heel is really killing me today.  I have Plantar fascitis and have been hobbling around for a couple of months now.  I have tried taping, stretching, motrin, whining and so far no luck.  I was reading about shoe inserts and may try them but really don't want to spend alot of money.  Anyone have this before and gotten over it without having to see a doctor?  The bike ride today should stretch it out until later then it will be a killer.  One thing after another.

    I did my slim fast today for breakfast again and might for lunch also.  I want to cut way down as we had pizza last night.  Hopefully a good 12 to 14 miles on the bike will burn that off.

   My beautiful neice got married last Saturday and I got the pictures yesterday.  It was too far away for me to go to plus I forgot it was this weekend.  I thought it was in 2 weeks. Shame on me.  I am going to get my card sent out right away.  The good thing is now I have some money to send.  She looked lovely.

  Well, I am going to get ready to go.  Bye all.

Busy Monday

   Usually Mondays are busy because I have packages to mail but I didn't have a single sale this weekend after the teapot.  Could never make a living at this.  I do have a busy day planned though.  My vacation check came, yippy so I need to go to the band and then Rick and I are going to repeat our bike ride from the other day, minus the beers and take pictures.  The sun is starting to break out and it isn't suppose to rain until this afternoon.

    My heel is really killing me today.  I have Plantar fascitis and have been hobbling around for a couple of months now.  I have tried taping, stretching, motrin, whining and so far no luck.  I was reading about shoe inserts and may try them but really don't want to spend alot of money.  Anyone have this before and gotten over it without having to see a doctor?  The bike ride today should stretch it out until later then it will be a killer.  One thing after another.

    I did my slim fast today for breakfast again and might for lunch also.  I want to cut way down as we had pizza last night.  Hopefully a good 12 to 14 miles on the bike will burn that off.

   My beautiful neice got married last Saturday and I got the pictures yesterday.  It was too far away for me to go to plus I forgot it was this weekend.  I thought it was in 2 weeks. Shame on me.  I am going to get my card sent out right away.  The good thing is now I have some money to send.  She looked lovely.

  Well, I am going to get ready to go.  Bye all.

Sunday, May 21, 2006

Poll

  I was wondering.  What would happen if I was going across town and in an accident and died.  Who would go on line to close my store, tell people in this journal and other places I visit what happened?  My husband is really techically challenged.  I am not sure if he could close my store without my passwords and even if he did have them, am not sure he would know how.  Has anyone else ever given this some thought??  Do you have someone designated to take care of on line things if anything happens to you?  No I am not morbid, just was wondering when I was listing something for my store just now, what would happen if something happened to me.  Knowing my luck I would have a rush of sales and my poor husband would have to try and deal with finding the items and packing them, now that makes me chuckle. 

     What has anyone else done about this?  I really want to know so let me know what you would do.

 

Another Day in Paradise

     As I read more journal on line and get to visit more places across the world by looking at their pictures I find my horizon's widening.  The Internet really is an amazing thing the way it is opening up the world.  I spent the morning watching videos on line.  How neat is that!  Soon that will be common.

   I have been looking at getting a different digital camera.  Helen from My Everyday Life has one I have been checking out and will probably buy.  I am going to pack up my old 35 mm and all my lenses and sell it.  There are about $500.00 worth of lenses alone and the hard case and travel case were expensive also.  It is mostly manual and I would like something more automatic plus digital is really the way to go.  I have a great printer so it works out.  It is hard to get good photo paper without spending a fortune though.

    I am alittle sore after our ride yesterday which surprises me.  My arms!  On some of the hills  I had to stand to pedal so maybe that was it.  Just when you think you're in good shape you do something a little bit different and boom, sore muscles.  Its good to use different ones.  I told Rick I want a big funky straw hat to wear when we are riding with flowers on it.  And a basket with flowers on for the bike.  He said to go ahead as long as I don't mind riding alone!  Hard to funky sometimes.  He did say I wasn't old enough yet for that get up which is sweet.

   I did step on the scale this morning and am the same this week.  No gain, no loss.  We had a fairly large meal yesterday so that didn't help.  My son is working tonight so I will make something lighter.  Haven't the foggiest what it will be though.  I bought a cruisinart mini food chopper for a dollar at the auction yesterday and it does great at chopping.  How nice on onions and garlic.  Why did I wait 51 years to get one of these?  The price was great also.  It should make preparing some of our meals easier and faster. 

       I also bought a new roaster as mine has a pin size hole on the bottom and a talking clock.  Why the talking clock.  SUCKER me couldn't resist it for 50 cents.  I don't need another clock, especially one that every hour in a perky little voice tells you what time it is.  Just what you need to know on those long nights you have trouble falling asleep.....it is now 1 am.........it is now 2 am........it is now 3 am....... break the darn thing but I love a bargain.   Did I buy anything to sell in my shop, no because the things they had worth anything to sell were also broken.  Sigh.

   Anyway except for some gym time this afternoon that pretty much winds up the day.  I think we will rent a movie for tonight since it is suppose to be severe weather later so no outdoor fun.  I hope no tornadoes. 

Saturday, May 20, 2006

Bike Ride

I have had such a wonderful day. The auction was a total bust as far as antiques. They should be shot for advertising antiques when there are 2 whole antiques that are broken. Since we had our bike though and since the weather was perfect by late morning we went for a ride.

First we did the bike trail from Sioux City to Riverside. It is only about 3.5 miles, but it was lovely. The purple wild flowers were blooming all over and we were preceded by an beautiful Baltimore Oriole who sang our arrival to all the other birds on the route. We stopped to watch some soft shelled turtles lay eggs on the bank and the new binoculars I bought at the auction came in handy. Of course when we were looking at them other people slowed down to see what we were seeing. Further on we saw a lovely Rose-breasted Grossbeak. This beautiful bird has a lovely song that reminds me of a Robin. Very striking on the trails.

     On the way back we stopped at the Jolly Roger which is on the river. It is a small little diner, bar,  on the point of the marina.  I had a Boulevard Wheat beer as we sat outside and watched the river run by. So relaxing.

I didn't feel like stopping so we continued on downtown and stopped at another place for a Widmers wheat beer and then we did the art tour downtown on our bikes. There are some beautiful sculptures we stopped and saw. Next time we are bringing the camera. Lots of people were our on their bikes and it was a perfect day for it.

   Rick and I never wear biking gear and I wouldn't know how to put on one of those bike helmets, but we still feel safe and secures riding around. The smells of the flowering trees and plants was perfect as we rode on this lovely spring day. Finally, no I am not a drunk, we ended up at the Jolly Rogers again for one last beer. We are not the only one who drink and drive as there were around 6 bikes parked outside. You do ride it off and sitting by a lovely river on a perfect spring day is just made perfect by a wonderful wheat beer. In my opinion. Then we rode to the van and came home. A perfect day. We ended up doing just under 14 miles but I think I could have easily done another 20 under the same circumstances.

We are going to make steaks for supper. Not sure what else, but I am craving the strawberries in the fridge so they will be in there somewhere. I have sun tea outside getting ready. So far this has been a great day off.

   Hope everyone has had as nice a weekend.

This is NOT how I have stayed married 32 years!

The Good Wife's Guide

From Housekeeping Monthly, 13 May, 1955.

Note: This may actually be fake. See Snopes.

  • Have dinner ready. Plan ahead, even the night before, to have a delicious meal ready on time for his return. This is a way of letting him know that you have be thinking about him and are concerned about his needs. Most men are hungry when they get home and the prospect of a good meal is part of the warm welcome needed.
  • Prepare yourself. Take 15 minutes to rest so you'll be refreshed when he arrives. Touch up your make-up, put a ribbon in your hair and be fresh-looking. He has just been with a lot of work-weary people.
  • Be a little gay and a little more interesting for him. His boring day may need a lift and one of your duties is to provide it.
  • Clear away the clutter. Make one last trip through the main part of the house just before your husband arrives. Run a dustcloth over the tables.
  • During the cooler months of the year you should prepare and light a fire for him to unwind by. Your husband will feel he has reached a haven of rest and order, and it will give you a lift too. After all, catering to his comfort will provide you with immense personal satisfaction.
  • Minimize all noise. At the time of his arrival, eliminate all noise of the washer, dryer or vacuum. Encourage the children to be quiet.
  • Be happy to see him.
  • Greet him with a warm smile and show sincerity in your desire to please him.
  • Listen to him. You may have a dozen important things to tell him, but the moment of his arrival is not the time. Let him talk first - remember, his topics of conversation are more important than yours.
  • Don't greet him with complaints and problems.
  • Don't complain if he's late for dinner or even if he stays out all night. Count this as minor compared to what he might have gone through at work.
  • Make him comfortable. Have him lean back in a comfortable chair or lie him down in the bedroom. Have a cool or warm drink ready for him.
  • Arrange his pillow and offer to take off his shoes. Speak in a low, soothing and pleasant voice.
  • Don't ask him questions about his actions or question his judgment or integrity. Remember, he is the master of the house and as such will always exercise his will with fairness and truthfulness. You have no right to question him.
  • A good wife always knows her place

Cloudy Day

     Yesterday it was such a beautiful day, sunny and warm  but so far it is cloudy out now.  There is an auction I want to go to today. Hopefully there will be some wonderful items I can get for a fair price.  I haven't added anything to my shop for awhile and it needs some new and wonderful items.

   Dinner was great last night.  I love fish and especially grilled fish.  Tonight we are grilling again, steak and I think I will get some veggies and make kabobs.  Well my husband just came in and said it is rainy.  That could hurt the grilling and the auction.

   Breakfast was slim-fast and an organic banana.  No leg cramps last night thank goodness.  How can one little banana help so much?

   Here is a neat site.  Portion control is my nemesis.  It sneaks up on me and slowly I start making my portions bigger again.  My husband always cooks me too big a steak or hamburger and we had too much fish last night.  I am much better then I was but there is so much room for improvement.  I could blame it on him or take control of it myself, it is funner blaming him though, LOL.NHLBI Portion Distortion - Answer to Question Number  Anyway take the quiz.  It will surprise you how many calories are in food just by changing the sizes.  You can eat that much but you would have to work out 9 and a half hours a day to burn all the calories.  Yikes.

   Well, I am off to check on the auction.  If it is cancelled I will be a good woman and hit the gym.

 

Friday, May 19, 2006

Supper

  It is in the 80's here and grilling weather.  I bought some Talapia Rick is going to grill and some greek pasta salad they make at Hy Vee that is actually low fat.  Top it off with some broccoli and 1 slice of bread also heated on the grill and it makes a lovely meal.  Since all of it is cooked outside the house shouldn't get too hot.  I have air in my bedroom, but the rest of house is cooled by an attic fan.  Since I sleep during the day it needs to be cool.

   I found a great site with all the nutritional information about fish, Seafood and Fresh Fish Nutritional Information from Gortons Fresh Seafood so it was easy to figure out my meal.  It looks like I will be around 1300 total.  I made some sugar free jello and got some some fresh strawberries and more low fat whip cream for dessert.  I actually like the sugar free jello!

   Slugging it out watching a movie tonight.  I was going to ride the bike but the heat seems to be triggering my asthma to act up.  I hope that isn't going to be something I have problems with all the time.

Body Image

    I am thinking about positive body image this morning after something I read.  After almost a year of my getting healthy journey I am feeling pretty good about myself.  I am not thin by anyones standards.  I am healthy and fit though.  I can easily walk miles and exercise nonstop for a hour if I feel like it.  I have no more aches and pains then any other 51 year old woman and feel much younger then my age.  What an improvement over how I felt last year.  Heavier and sinking into old age with all the worst of the problems that go with being overweight.

   I no longer am going for skinny or even thin.  I think that goal changed around 4 months into my journey.  I started going for healthy and fit.  Fit by my standards.  The better I feel about myself the more it was being noticed.  I try to portray myself as a fit healthy person and when people see me and know me that is what they say.  Even my doctor yesterday was commenting on how active and fit I am.  This from a woman who has seen my fat rolls!  Eating healthy and exercising has the added benefit of me losing weight.  I try to let that become my obcession.  I don't weigh myself 3 or 4 times a day now and don't freak if I gain a couple of pound briefly because I know what to do to get rid of it and I know it will slowly be gone for good in time.

   My journey is going to take longer then I had thought.  In the beginning I would say, next year when I reach goal.  Now that I know this has become a lifestyle change for me the time constrant is removed.  It will happen when it happens.  Slower for me then for some but I think it is working better this way.  My skin is tightening up really nicely for a 51 year old lady.

   Anyway.  I read a good article that got this whole train of though going.  Here is a portion of it and I will enclude the link if you want to finish it.  It just fits what I have learned.

  

"All of us can't be thin. But every single one of us can be healthy. By focusing on what you're eating and how much you're exercising, you'll be able to achieve optimum health and fitness, even though you may not achieve society's ideal of thinness. Accepting yourself does not mean that you're hopeless and that it's okay to do nothing. It means that you feel good and care about yourself, and that you want to be the very best you can be, regardless of your genetics, regardless of society's standards.

To achieve this level of optimum wellness, you must have a positive self image. This means that your feelings about your body are not influenced by events in your daily life. For many people, life's problems are projected onto their body. "If only I were thinner--or more muscular, I would have made the team, gotten the job, been chosen. . . . If only I were thinner--or more muscular, I could meet more people, find the right guy/girl, be happy." This self-defeating habit is reinforced by the images we see in advertising; your body becomes an easy target for everything wrong in your life.

When you have a positive self-image, you value and respect your body; you are also more likely to feel good about living a healthy lifestyle."

Accept Your Body and Learn to Have a Positive Self Image - Fitness on Yahoo! H

                                     

Just another day.

          If someone with multiple personalities threatens to kill himself, is it considered a hostage situation?     

            

  Saying goodbye to my McCoy teapot today that I sold last night.  Weird as I had just decided to pull the listing because I decided I didn't want to sell it afterall and boom, it sold.  That will teach me to be wishy washy.  I usually only buy things to sell that I wouldn't mind getting stuck with.  Trouble is I fall in love with them and don't want to sell them when the time comes.  You can only have so many teapots and other things around the house.

   Added up my calories yesterday and it was over 2000 thanks to the shrimp and wine so I will have to be very good today.  We are going to the gym shortly and I hope to stretch the muscles out in my legs.  I had charlie horses all night.  It makes it hard to get a good night sleep when everytime you turn over you get a charlie horse.  Darn things really hurt.  I had a strawberry banana smoothie last night and it didn't help.  Maybe a good workout will.

If one synchronized swimmer drowns, do the rest have to drown too?

   Tomorrow there is a really good auction going on.  I am hoping to get some really neat things for my shop.  I also am thinking about doing a 5 day auction to finish off selling the last of my consignment items.  The lady I am selling them for says to unload them as fast as possible so I will.  I won't go as cheap on the cambridge candles as she wants.  I know they are worth more then she would take.  That is why I sell for her, she would sell things for a dollar that I can sell for 70.00.  I love buying from her though, LOL.

    I also have to finish re-finishing the drawers on my dresser.  I have been putting it off for the whole winter and my dresser looks terrible missing the 4 drawers.  It took the carpenter a year to rebuild the drawers and it has taken me 3 months to refinish them.  Why do today what you can do another day.

             Procrastination is the art of keeping up with yesterday.

   Word for the day.  I have to find a way to use it.  I do have a general acceptation for knowing what to apply it to, just have to do it.  Does that count?

acceptation n. - 1) acceptance 2) the generally accepted meaning of a word or understanding of a concept

Thursday, May 18, 2006

Released from the Doctor

    My plastic surgeon was so neat.  She gave me a hug when I left and is just the sweetest person.    She thinks I look perfect.   Just call me perky!   I will miss her.

   I pretty much haven't done much as far as exercise today.  On only 4 hours sleep I am lazy.  We did buy some wine and are thinking about a firepit and I sold a teapot for $70.00.  I have to pack that up in the morning and let her know shipping costs.   There is an auction I want to go to this weekend to replenish my stock.  Otherwise we have been watching some old vacation movies  and remembering what is what like to be 10 years younger and goofy.  Fun time.  I am making a shrimp dinner tonight.  Quiet weekend.  You all have fun this week.

 

 

    

Weekend Photo op

   I have quite a few things no one would have, or want for that matter.  This is my entry.  We decided when this bird feeder broke to glue it to our birdbath.  Then we decided a moose would look natural in the water.  Of course you needed a beagle on the porch.  I have a few bird baths but the birds perfer this one.  They feel like they are on vacation.

Weekend Assignment: Show off a personal possession of yours that you are reasonably certain other people don't have. Note this is limited to possessions: Don't haul up the spouse and go "neener-neener." Pets are also off limits unless it's a truly bizarre pet: We're talking like a hyena or an ocelot or something like that. Otherwise it's best to stick to physical objects.

    If you want to enter this weekend photo op just go to this site and enter.

                    http://journals.aol.com/johnmscalzi/bytheway/entries/5953

Oxymoron's

Act naturally

Happily married

Microsoft Works

Holy war

Found missing

Resident alien

Minor Catastrophe

Affordable housing

Near miss

Great depression

Canadian army

Phone sex

United nations

Advanced BASIC

Genuine imitation

Death benefits

Airline Food

Women's rights

Good grief

Same difference

Almost exactly

Sensitive man

Government organization

Everything except

Civil War

Good kid

Sanitary landfill

Alone together

Legally drunk

Silent scream

British fashion

Living dead

Small crowd

Business ethics

Soft rock

Butt Head

Military Intelligence

Software documentation

New York culture

New classic

Sweet sorrow

Childproof

"Now, then"

Synthetic natural gas

Christian Scientists

Passive aggressive

Taped live

Clearly misunderstood

Peace force

Extinct Life

Temporary tax increase

New and improved

Computer jock

Plastic glasses

Terribly pleased

Computer security

Political science

Tight slacks

Definite maybe

Pretty ugly

Twelve-ounce pound cake

Diet ice cream

Rap music

Working vacation

Exact estimate

Religious tolerance

Freezer Burn

Honest Politician

Jumbo Shrimp

Loners Club

Postal Service

Happiness is my long Stretch off!

                If work is so terrific, how come they have to pay you to do it?

   Well I made it through another long stretch and am off now until next Thursday.  Yah.  We have been just unbelievably busy.    I am so tired so I plan on sleeping until 12 and then getting ready to see my doctor.  She is so nice and I really liked her.  I have 3 more doses of the advair the doctor gave.  I don't think it help enough to warant spending so much money on it so I have decide not to fill the script.  I will give him a call and see if he has anything cheaper to offer me.  I realize asthma can be serious but don't think I have that severe a case.

If one synchronized swimmer drowns, do the rest have to drown too?

         

   I am looking forward to being off so I can monitor my eating better.  I did very well when I was off my last stretch.  I also can't wait to hit the gym.  My muscles feel flabby.

   Well I am off to bed. I will write more later.

Wednesday, May 17, 2006

Last Night at work

             If a mute swears, does his mother wash his hands with soap?

  As you can see on my long stretch at work I write very little and then on my long stretch off I write non stop.

      Today is my weigh in day.  I have decided not to.  Since I went so badly off course Sunday and Monday I just do not feel like facing the music today.  I am too tired.  I would think the way I have run at work I would have worked off all the calories but I know from past experience it doesn't work that way.  I also know 2 days off plan can ruin 2 weeks on plan so I just don't want to know right now.  I will weigh myself tomorrow before my doctor appointment.

   I see my doctor that did my breast reduction tomorrow.  I think she will do the final pictures and release me. 

     It is hard to believe it has been 4 months already.  For those who just started reading this I had a breast reduction Jan 11th due to severe back pain between my shoulder blades.  I have a couple of herniated discs and they thought that might help.  I kept putting it off, but finally had the surgery and am happy to report it took away about 90% of the pain I was having.  If I had know it would be that successful I would have done it years ago when they suggested it.  I am extremely happy with the results and with not having to rely on pain medication all the time.  I was in constant pain for around 10 years so this really was a miracle for me.  Not to mention all the cute frilly bra's I can buy for the first time in my life.

          Isn't it a bit unnerving that doctors call what they do "practice?"

   Yesterday I took my lasix because I am having some trouble  with swelling.  I took it around 9 am and it kicked in around 7:30 pm.  Right in the middle of my admit I had to run out around 3 times and then I had leg cramps all morning while I was trying to sleep.  My legs do look better though. 

   At work last night I had left over jambalaya and 2 rice cakes then dry cherrio's in the morning for a snack.  Rick is making brauts for supper which I will eat plain and I think I will make some brussel spouts.

Tuesday, May 16, 2006

Back to my Diet

   Although you may understand the explanations, if you are still suffering because of problems, you clearly do not understand the true nature of your mind, your body, and your senses.

-Lama Zopa Rinpoche, "Transforming Problems Into Happiness"

Ok, now back to my diet.  I had to purge myself with the other entry. 

       Of course I hate calling it a diet since I said long ago I threw my diet out the window and will never do it again.  Now I just eat right in proper portions, most of the time.  Nothing white except my no fat milk.  

    After the last 2 days off plan, way off plan, I am going to drop my calories way down.  Breakfast is Slim fast.  Lunch will be a salad with 3 ounces of salmon.  I am making some hummus this morning and bought a hot pepper to add.  I like the heat in them.  The weather here has been cold and cloudy for days so I think some soup for supper would be great.  I have a black bean soup recipe I have been wanting to try so maybe today is the day.  That or white chili.  The recipe from South Beach is wonderful and was a huge hit.  I have chicken and I think everything but the beans.   In fact the more I write about it the better it sounds so I guess that is what I will make for supper.  I will go back in my journal and find the recipe then insert the link here in case anyone is interested.

    I am dressed and ready for the gym, just need to get off my booty and out the door.   I am going to work off the blues and exercising always makes you feel better, it releases those endomorphin's (sp)  I work the next 2 nights and then will be off for my long stretch.  I love my long stretches off.

   I haven't heard back about that other job.  I think I was more on call then they wanted.  They wanted to tell me when I would work instead of the other way around.

             Here is the link with recipe for white chili.  It is very good.

                       Wednesday Winter weight loss Weigh in

   I mentioned the chili to Rick and he already had supper plans made so we are have Shrimp Jambalaya for supper.  Tasty.  Can't complain about that but the sodium is a little on the high side.

    Everyday I read the word for today and try to use it in a sentence.  The word for today is: dilettante n. - 1) an art lover 2) a person having a superficial interest in an art or field of knowledge

   My sentence today is: As a dilettante I enjoy seeing Elaines art work she has listed on ebay.  She has the journal My Art World .   I thought is would be fun to include someone from J-land in the word for today.  Anyone else game?

Crash and Burn

    I am normally a pretty positive person.  Not prone to depression.  This mothers day really got me down though. 

       I mentioned I am now the age my mother was when we spent the last mother's day with her.   That day was so strange for us because my mom insisted on discussing her funeral plans and what she would want done if something should happen to her on that day. Did she have a premonition?

 We protested and said we didn't want to talk about it, especially on Mothers day, she would be around for years to come, but she insisted.  She said as the oldest girl I would be the one who had to make the decisions.  So we sat down and indulged her by listening but a small alarm bell was ringing in my heart.  Something I had never really thought about was being discussed making me think about it.  The unheard of could happen.   And it did soon afterward.  I never saw her again where she knew who I was.

   Sunday I couldn't help thinking, this is how my mother felt at this age.  This is how her skin felt, her joints ached, her mind thought.  This is how young my mother felt at my age.  The whole day I couldn't stop myself from comparing my every move to my Mothers.

    My mother died from Herpes Encephalitis.  She had a small cold sore on her mouth that traveled from a sinus infection to her brain destroying it.  Back then they had no treatment for it.  They did shortly afterwards.  I woke up mothers day with a small cold sore on my mouth.  Freaked me out.  I felt morbid all day and it is a good thing we were so busy at work to keep my mind off of it. 

   I over ate yesterday.  I felt this dark cloud over my head all day.  I am shaking it off today. 

   I know that the chances of me getting the same illness and dying at the same age as my mother are as slim as the lottery ticket in my purse being the winning numbers.  I did not call my oldest son and burden him with talked about my upcoming funeral.  I did tell my husband, who it turns out had the same irrational fear, about my silly worries. Irrational b : not governed by or according to reason <irrational fears> c Greek & Latin prosody  I am going to eat on track again and not eat like it was the last day of my life.  Depression is a terrible thing.  I am lucky I rarely feel it.  I am lucky it usually does not last long.  I am lucky to be alive.  Begone little depression demons. 

Monday, May 15, 2006

Yah for a day off

   Work was absolutely wicked last night, busy and filled with sorrow as we had an infant death which always makes everyone sad and upset.   I worked 4 hours on my floor and then 8 1/2 on the surgical floor.   My feet are killing me and I am ready to sleep awhile.  I will only sleep until around 1 today and then get up as I have to mail a package that I sold and then that way I can sleep tonight.

   I porked out at supper last night with the egg pie Rick made, it was delicious, and he baked an apple pie which I had a piece of also.  I suppose one off day plan will cause me to gain everything I lost on my 2 weeks on plan.  That's the way it works.  2 weeks to lose, 2 seconds to put it back on.

  I want to hit the gym today as I haven't been since Thursday but might not get there until tomorrow.  One day off really isn't going to cut it this week as busy as we were all weekend.  Oh well, 2 more days and then 7 off.

   My son from out of town called and wished me happy mothers day and I talked to my grandchildren.  My granddaughter went fishing for the first time and caught her first fish all by herself.  I felt sad as I always said I wanted to be the one to teach her to fish.  Then they move 1000 miles away.  Sad.  My son the lives with us didn't say a thing but he was gone to work before I got up.  He was the most thoughtful child and very affectionate.  Not much as an adult.  I should have had a daughter.

   Well, I am going to bed and sleep, sleep, sleep. 

                  

 

 

Sunday, May 14, 2006

Happy Mothers Day!

 

 MORE THAN A MOTHER

When God set the world in place,                   
when He hung the stars up in space,
when He made the land and the sea,
then He made you and me.

He sat back and saw all that was good,
He saw things to be as they should.
Just one more blessing He had in store;
He created a mother, but whatever for?

He knew a mother would have a special place
to shine His reflection on her child's face.
A mother will walk the extra mile
just to see her children smile.
She'll work her fingers to the bone
to make a house into a home.

A mother is there to teach and guide,
a mother will stay right by your side.
She'll be there through your pain and strife,
she'll stay constant in your life.

A mother will lend a helping hand
until you have the strength to stand.
She'll pick you up when you are down,
when you need a friend she'll stick around.

A mother is one who listens well,
will keep her word; will never tell.

A mother never pokes or pries
but stands quietly by your side,
giving you the strength you need,
encouraging you to succeed.

A mother is one who can be strong
when you need someone to lean on.

You're more than a mother to me;
a reflection of Him in your face I see,
a love that knows no boundaries.

I'm glad that you chose to be
all this and more to me.
You share a love that knows no end,
you're more than my mother,
you are my friend.                                           

         ~By Kari Keshmiry~                                          

    Happy Mothers Day to all the mothers and Grandmothers in J-land.  Hope it is a special day for you.

 

Saturday, May 13, 2006

What a night!

                        http://www.GlitterMaker.com/ - Glitter Graphics

     We were busy again last night.   Someone from our floor has to go to code Blues on other units. That is when someone is pulseless and not breathing.  Unfortunately my toe is infected that I had the ingrown toenail removed from and very tender.  I went to the code last night and was standing there recording on one leg with my other safely tucked up behind me so no one would step on it accidentally.  It's pretty busy during one of those.   The doctor looked at me and laughed, what is this? The karate kid recording stance!  Yuk Yuk.  Laugh a minute these things.  I did manage to get through it without anyone stepping on my toe and we also had a successful outcome, meaning the patient lived.  

   The good thing about nights like last night is you're so busy and running so much that you don't spend any time snacking. Not to mention I ran up 2 flights of stairs which always burns some calories.  I was really good last night staying on my plan, but unfortunately burned my popcorn so I didn't get my snack.  I had some dry cherrio's instead.  Not the same.

   I slept terrible.   My toe was throbbing and I was up every hour.  I took some Motrin, but it didn't help much.  That makes work go soooo long.  We are busy enough it should help me stay awake, but what a long night it is going to be.  I am sitting here drinking extra stength coffee.  No idea what is for supper tonight.  My husband is putting in our new screen door so I have a feeling he has nothing planned.  Sometimes he surprises me though. 

    Tomorrow I guess he is making Egg Pie for supper.   It is a recipe he made up that has everything but the kitchen sink in it.  Probably loaded with calories but absolutely delicious so I am going to stay low on calories today and splurge tomorrow.  His mom is coming over and I have to remember to get her card ready.  I want him to go get her a nice hanging plant for tomorrow also.

   My mom died in 1980 when my children were young, as was I.  I miss her so much and think of her often, but especially tomorrow.  Mothers day was the last day we spent with when she was herself.  2 days later she was in the hospital with encephalitis and never recognized me again until she died 7 months later.  She was the age I am now, 51 and died 13 days after her 52 birthday. 

     My mother was a member of Mensa and gave her first piano concert when she was 5.   After leaving a terrible abusive husband, me dear old dad, she raised the 5 of us kids on her own and I think did a heck of a job.  It was sad that she died shortly after seeing the last of her children move out and when she finally had the money and time to enjoy herself and travel some.  I am sad my children don't remember her.  Here's to you Mom, Love you always.

 

Friday, May 12, 2006

Todays Summary

Your Nutrition Information

                                       Actual                               Target

Calories                          1,190                                   1500

Calories from Fat               390                                280 - 530

Total Fat                             46g                                32 - 61g

Saturated Fat                         15g                               <= 17g

Cholesterol                         135mg                             < 300mg

Sodium                             2,990mg                              < 2400mg

Total Carbohydrate                  151g                             180 - 260g

Dietary Fiber                               23g                                     >= 25g

Sugars                                         45g                                          *

Protein                                        47g                                     41 - 142g

Vitamin A                                     *                                                   *

Vitamin C                                      110%                                   100%

Calcium                                          35%                                    100%

Iron                                            160%                                      100%

    I have cut down on my calories for the past 3 day and then tomorrow I will increase again for a couple of days.  If you eat the same amount of calories everyday your body starts to store that amount.  Slows your weight loss way down.  Beef and Brocolli stir fry for supper tonight.

Wow, What a busy Night!

                             

    It's ironic that the all year so far our census at the hospital has been around 145 to 150.   Now that they talk about down sizing the hospital it is at 183 this morning when I left!  What would happen if we make all of our room private like it is being considered and we go to 230 like we ran the year before all the time!  Not that I want people to be sick, but I hope the census stays up for awhile so they will really reconsider down sizing.

   Hit the floor running last night and it went that way the entire 12 hours.  The patients were all pretty critical and we had one emergency after another.  The good thing about that is the day flew by.  Fortunately we had plenty of help as they had switched the schedule around to help beef up the staff for tonight.  Really good thing about being so busy is I didn't do any snaking and their wasn't any extra food lying around.

   Weighed in when I woke up.  I am down a pound.  I sure hope it stays and gathers friends by weigh in day. 

    I was talking to one of the nurses who had a gastric bypass on my floor. ( we have 4 nurses on my floor who have had this surgery),  She also is losing very slow.  She said she still eats the wrong foods and knows the reason why she isn't losing this past 6 months, is because she doesn't even try to eat the right foods and doesn't exercise at all!

     She has lost 90 pounds, but still has alot to lose and I wonder why you would go through major surgery with all its risks and not do everything the doctor said to to assure its success.  She had the regular gastric bypass, not the lap band I was going to get. 

     There are no magic bullets to thinness.  The only really correct and sure way to lose weight is just what the doctors has said all along.  Eat less, eat healthy, and exercise.

   No to brag, but looking at me you wouldn't know that I had lost 57 pounds.  My skin isn't excessively saggy.  More just normal looking for someone my age.  I have noticed improvement in my skin and hair from eating healthier.  Truthfully though I never was much for junk foods.  I just ate too much.  I still have trouble with that.  I never feel full!

   I looked into lap band surgery because I knew it would not allow me to eat more then I should.  It would help me to feel full.  For some reason I think I could eat all day and never feel full.  The doctor told me that is common with overweight people and the lap band was successful for the people who didn't eat wrong and didn't snack all day.  They just ate too much at a sitting.  That was me. 

    I am sure I would have been successful at my weight loss with that surgery.  The only difference now is I just have to measure out my portions and stop at that instead of eating more.  I can't depend on my body sending me signals saying, STOP, YOUR FULL!   I have been eating this way for 10 months now and I still rarely feel full.  I drink a full glass of water before my meals, I still never feel full.  No triggers to make me quit eating.  Anyone else out there notice that?  That is why portion control was so hard for me.

   I enter all my food at Slimfast.com.  It's chart keep track of all my calories as you can see by my daily charts.  It gives me something to go by.  Fitday.com is another great site I would have used if I hadn't already started on slimfast.com.  For me this has been very important.  In a earlier entry I have it written down what I do.  http://journals.aol.com/midwestvintage/JulieLosesitMyWeightLossJourney/entries/1093

   I do everything on that list. 

     Now off subject.  The above link is the first time I have done that in this journal.  I new thing for me.  I try to learn something new each day.  How great I got that out of the way so I can slack off the rest of the day.

     Now back to weight loss.  My mind just jumps all over these day.  I get a new charm for my charm bracelet for every 10 pound weight loss.  My first charm was a butterfly to signify the change I was going through,  my 2nd just says 20.  For the 3rd I got a turtle because it took me forever to get that 10 off.  40 was a bike since riding my bike helped me get that 10 pounds off.  At 50 I had a charm made for me that showed a doctors scale with 50 above it.  I also got a charm for when I made it to onederland.  A mountain to show I had made it over the top and was now sliding down to my goal.  I am getting close to needing my -60 pounds charm.  I am stuck on what to get.  Another turtle would be good since it has taken me months to get this 10 pounds off but I don't want to repeat myself.  Any suggestions?

   Time to close this rambling long post and get supper ready and then myself ready for work.  My toe is throbbing today so I think a tylenol is called for also.  Hope everyone has a great weekend.!

Thursday, May 11, 2006

Another conversation with my Husband

  Gee 2 in one day!

 Rick, would you put the dishes away while I get dressed?

Sure......Where does this lid go?

In the drawer with the lids......

Where does this bowl go?

In the corner cubboard with the stacking bowls......

Do you keep this here?

YES, we do keep that in there.....for the last 2 years......

Well you don't have to get mad!

I'm not mad "DEAR" but you made dinner, don't you remember where you got the dishes from?? ? ? ???????

    I can't help but think he learned this at an early age, eventually does he think I will  just stop asking?

     My daily nutrition is pretty good today.  It will need to be because I work all weekend and temptation galore there.  Endless potlucks.

  Your Nutrition Information

                                          Actual                          Target

Calories                               1,360                        1500

Calories from Fat                    220                        280 - 530

Total Fat                                26g                              32 - 61g

Saturated Fat                         4.5g                         <= 17g

Cholesterol                            10mg                        < 300mg

Sodium                                2,320mg                     < 2400mg

Total Carbohydrate                221g                            180 - 260g

Dietary Fiber                         25g                                 >= 25g

Sugars                                    56g                                    *

Protein                                   63g                                41 - 142g

Vitamin A                              *                                           *

Vitamin C                             80%                                        100%

Calcium                                 50%                                      100%

Iron                                    180%                                        100%