My story

Ok, we arrived in Sicily on Sept 27 after a very long flight. I weighted 142 when we got here. I immediately got sick and was sick for 3 weeks. During that time my weight dropped to 140. Also at that time I was walking everywhere. Then the stress of finding permanent quarters and the boredom set in. I started going to the gym but because of house hunting trips and having to drive my husband to work and drive the kids to school my time was limited. Then we found a place to live-a whole new set of problems. We signed the lease on Nov 8 and moved in on the 12th. On Oct 27 Mt Etna erupted and sent tons of ash into the air. A lot of it landed at my new house. The weekend before our goods were delivered was spent removing the ash so it wouldn’t be tracked into the house. I was dreaming. Because I spent a lot of time sweeping ash out of the house. We no sooner remove the ash and more falls. Houses here are not equipped with toilet seats or light fixtures. Or anything else. I had to buy all of that and install it. Got moved in and the oven didn’t work. A good bit of the time there is no hot water or heat. There are a host of other problems with the place and I’ve had a ton of repairmen at the house. The hot water and heat still does not work all of the time. My oven still does not work right. None of the repairmen speak English. It is a chore to explain to them anything.
The week we moved in, someone climbed our fence and broke into my car. The car I got that day. There are only a few things I like about my car, the stereo and the sunroof. They stole the stereo. The also stole a bunch of other stuff. Last night they came back and broke into my husband’s car. They damaged the door but only took his pass for Arlington National Cemetery. The house is 4 floors, 4 bedrooms and 2 ½ baths. Nice place most of the time. I have 2 balconies in the back were I can see Mt. Etna erupting. And 2 balconies were I can see the sea. I have Europe’s most active volcano in my backyard. It is currently erupting. In fact I live on the side of it. I must be crazy. But the lava is not flowing toward us.

We have been sightseeing. Been to a few towns, the market, went to a castle that is probably older than United States. The market in Cantania is awesome. Ate a traditional meal with all of the courses. I was so full afterwards but it was good. On Oct 26 we hiked Mt Etna, went up to the crater and looked at the lava flow from last years eruption. All was quiet up there or least it looked that way. At approximately 2 am on Oct 27 Mt Etna came alive. Earthquakes, lava shooting into the sky and ash falling. We awoke to ash falling like rain. It covered everything, closing the airports. We didn’t feel the earthquakes but all day we could hear the explosions. It was strange. Lucky for us the wind changed direction and the ash quit falling for a while. At night I stand a watch the lava. It is amazing; I can track the lava flow down the mountain. It’s kind of scary. Now there is snow on the mountain. We live just below the snow line but it is cold. Maybe we will get snow for Christmas. It is strange to see snow and lava at the same time.

That’s my story and where I stand right now.
Renee.

Welcome back, Arfain!

I am so delighted to see you started a new journal! Man, your life these past few months has been eventful...

It is so weird to think you live on an erupting volcano, but that you are not in danger. I keep thinking of Pompeii. Eeek!!!

Well, since it is harvest time, you should be able to eat a little healthier. The fruits and veggies are so wonderful in Italy, that I'm sure you will enjoy them as much as the pasta (ok, well, maybe not, but you will be inspired to eat them more...haha).

I think you will love it there much more, now that you are taking language classes. And maybe, then, you will be able to get everything fixed! hee hee

Can you start going to the gym again? I remember you told me it is a nice one...Those stairs in your home, though...wow. It is inspiration not to get a sprained ankle, huh? You will have the strongest butt and thighs after a year there. ha

Well, welcome back, my friend. I am glad to see you safe and (relatively) happy.

Now it's time to get back to working on your health, dearie!

Good Morning,
It's almost 9 am here, I think thats 3am on the East Coast. I've thought alot about what I want and what my goals are, how I'm going to get there. My goals are:

1. Be at 118 by July 1, the way I figure it that's less than a pound a week.
2. learn to speak Italian- it's no fun yelling at anyone when they can't understand you.
3. Be calmer - that speaks for itself
4. Find a job - I like to shop to much not to work.

What am I going to do to meet them. Each month I'm going to have mini goals that are going to guide me toward my long term goal.

I'm going to start exercising again and eating again. That means pasta no more than once a week. I'm going to start back to church- it helps calm me.

This month's goals are:
*to be at 140 by Jan 1
*learn a new Italian word or phrase daily.
*Go to Church on Sunday - its a perfect time to start back with the holiday season.
*finish my resume
*exercise at least 3 times a week. I want to start running again- so at least one day of exercise will be geared toward that.

Chumlette, the stairs are great exercise. I haven't sprained an ankle but I pulled my back out. The electricity went out during a storm. I was on the stairs in socks. The stairs are marble. I turned to go back down to hit the breaker box and slipped. I grabbed the railing to keep from falling, pulled my back and hit my arm. Ouch. Have to be more careful.

The volcano is pretty today. There was a fresh snow fall yesterday and last night and it is covered. Of course, it is still erupting.
Well that's all for now. I'm off for now to learn a new phrase. The phrase I picked out for today is: MESS WITH US, PREPARE TO DIE. I'm going to hang a sign out, see if that works. Anyways, we are getting an alarm system next week.

REnee:D

Renee your story is incredible!

Your goals are acheivable and healthy. I will be looking forward to watching your progress.

Enjoy your adventure!

Suz

OMG, Arf, I am howling. You are so funny...
I think my first Italian phrase was...Dove da bagno? hahaha

Your goals sound good and even reasonable! Yahoo! I can't wait to see how it goes!!! Congratulations, Renee.

Poor little falling Arfain. Socks and marble just don't mix.

Hi
Chumlette I think that was also one of the first ones I learned. Unfortunetly then I went to the bagno. NO TOILET SEAT OR PAPER, gross. Yesterday I went to a very nice department store. Very up scale--it had both. At the train station the tp sets on a table between the mens and ladies room and you pull off a piece on the way in. Fun.

Today was an ok day. Watch How the Grinch stole Christmas, put up our tree. Went to the base shopping. That counts at exercise. Called my Mom in sthe states and my sister in law in Germany.It was nice to talk to them. Now I'm sitting here at the computer drinking a glass of Sicilian wine. Its not bad, a little sweet. Bought some bourbon today so I can make bourbon balls, tomorrow I start my baking. I'll give most of it away. It was cloudy most of the day. We could see the mountain briefly, its covered with snow. It so strange to look at it. Its covered with snow, there is a cloud covering the top but from the top emerges the smoke and ash. Kind of scary. Tomorrow we are going to church. I think I'll do some cross stitch tomorrow. It always relaxes me. Have a good day. Renee.

Hello Renee,

It sounds as if you are under stress with all these things happening. sounds like a day in my own life.
we rent a house(dont plan to be here too long)
but house is full of headaches. being an older house it always blows fuses and needs work which we have done quite alot.

i was reading in chums journal about "abnormal pap readings"

i can totally relate to this as my problems began over 3 1/2 yrs ago with my first abnormal pap.
they did a colposcopy on me and a biopsy and there was no cancer thank goodness but i had to have pap smears every 3-4 months and after 3 in a row good i would be allowed to go back to a yearly pap. but every time id have 2 in a row good the 3rd would have an abnormal reading.
they said no cancer so sometimes abnormal paps can be an infection, a tear in cervix that will heal on its own or just pre-cancerous cells which they keep checking on through routine paps.
i was scared to death and it was nothing. last year i had 3 normal paps in a row and am not due for one till spring. if you ever need someone to talk to with this you can come to me or if you have a question.
ive dealt with this a long time and am pretty informed on it.

just keep going for the paps as they request and you will be fine.
i have had a special pap done called "thin prep" which gives a better reading(more clear) than the older standard paps.

i read about the volcanos. that must seem scary to you. but glad your not in harms way,.
take care and enjoy the weekend.

What an interesting life you live :)

You write very well - I felt as if I were there with you while reading your posts!

Your goals are wonderful and I am sure you will met them :)

Jade

Good Morning,
Woke to heat. First in a while. The sun is shining and it is promising to be a beautiful day. A lot of ash fell last night so at some point today I've got to sweep the balconies and wash my car. This morning we are planning to go to church. Then later to a movie. I'm also going to stop by the gym and get their class schedule.

Today I'm starting my baking for the holidays. Most of it I will send in with my husband so there won't be much for me to eat. I'm going to do some ab work today. They need it. Not much else here. No break ins last night although some guys had backed into the drive by our back gate. My husband saw them and scare them off.

Have a wonderful Sunday.

Renee

Hey darlin'.

You've got your tree up! YAY! That should put you in the mood. I must do some holiday baking next week, myself. If I am feeling better...don't want to pass on germs with cookies. haha

Reading Minnie's post made it a little more clear to me about the Paps. I think, though, that womens bodies just aren't studied enough by researchers. Look how long my female problems have lasted now. Years. And they say not to worry. Yeah, right.

It is odd to me that the mountain top can have snow and lava at the same time. You would think the snow would melt instantly or that it would be too hot or something? Very interesting reading, again, my friend.

Hope you have a lovely day. I am so glad you are back, Renee.

ood Morning

Did I get everything accomplished yesterday? No. I didn’t sweep the balconies, just didn’t feel like it. I’m going to do that as soon as I get off the computer. My husband washed my car. Then it rained. My son told him that would happen. I did go to church. It was interesting. The service was a mixture of all of the Protestant services. They didn’t light the Advent candle. That is one of my favorites during the season. Didn’t go to the movies. My son was horrible during church. It took a hour and half to get home(normally it takes 25 minutes). Traffic was a bear. People were parking on the autostrada to watch the races. Traffic was moving and me driving a manual transmission. Did away with the calming effect church had.

I did start baking. Mixed up the dough for whole wheat pretzels, made pumpkin muffins and the old southern tradition –bourbon balls. Paid premium for Jim Beam to make them. Didn’t do my abs, thought about and decided not to. Just didn’t feel like it.

The volcano was rumbling all day. There was another earthquake, we didn’t feel it. Read a news report yesterday that said there are changes going on in the mountain that is causing the eruptions to become more violent and dangerous. Oh joy.

Today I’ve decided to go to the gym and use the cardio equipment and do some weight training. Got a schedule of their classes for the month. Not much is offered when I can go. I guess I’ll use my tapes. Its cloudy and cold again but the sun is trying to come out. I can’t see Etna, the clouds are too low.

Today I’m also going to work on my abs and arms. I’ve got to go and get lunch tickets for the kids. Need to get gas for my car, I think I have some Euro. Going to clean house, go to the post office-maybe some Christmas presents are here. And I’ve got to go to the housing offie and complain about my hot water, lights and oven. Such a fun day planned.

The phrase I’m going to learn today is:
It doesn’t work! Non lavora! Need this phrase because nothing works.

Well, I’m going to start my mundane life.

Renee.

Picture from one of our sightseeing trips. Went to Taormina, which is one the coast.

you sound quite busy and are doing so well in the exercise dept.

we had snowy,sleet last night. not great driving conditions.

well take care and have a nice day.

You are a riot, girl. Good new phrase. And man alive, you are the little exercise QUEEN aren't you??? I forgot, didn't you win the Queen Challenge last time? You are going to be rock solid if you do all that you planned...

Are you sure it's not dangerous at your house? All this talk of earthquakes and eruptions.

Good Morning
Thanks for stopping by Chumlette and Minnie Mouse. I wish I was rock solid instead of mush.

Running late this morning. Yesterday I got the balconies swept. I was feel full of energy so I cleaned the whole second floor and swept it and the stairs. Then I actually made it to the gym where I did 30 minutes of weight training and got on the treadmill for 30 minutes. I’m feeling it today. I actually got a hot shower-at the gym of course, because there was no hot water at the house. Went shopping and then went to the housing office. The gym had a calming effect on me. By the time I left the housing, it was gone. My chest was tight and I was ready to slap someone. At that point it didn’t matter who it was. After a heated discussion with housing and the landlord, the landlord promised to send someone out by 1:00 today to fix my hot water. I here to tell you I doubt it’s going to happen. It is almost 12 and they have not arrived. Anyways, after housing hung up with the landlord, they suggested that I consider moving into another house. Hello, that is a pain in the but. I have to go on housing trips, put in for a house, wait on the security inspection, pay 2 months rent up front and all of those wonderful deposits again. We will probably do it after Christmas.

Now I’m sitting at home waiting for repairmen. One is here, the one that was suppose to come last week, to fix something that should have been done before we moved in. Before he got here I got part of the house straighten and swept. Now I’m stuck in the downstairs waiting, because you have to stay with them at all times. You can’t trust them. My kitchen is pretty spotless except for the floor. Needs mopping but with workmen here it will just get dirty again. Can’t do laundry because he is a plumber and they always seem to cut off the water. Can’t clean the dining room because that is where he is, with 3 big holes in my wall.

The heat went off during the night. So it was cold in the house, real cold. It didn’t come back on until almost 7. I don’t think they are going to come and fix the hot water/heat today. They lie.

Etna is pretty today in a weird way. All covered in snow and smoke and ash pouring out of the top of her. It is bizarre to watch.

I plan to go to the gym and use the cardio equipment today. I’m also planning on working my abs. We shall see. I also have to go back to housing. Fun, fun. That’s all for now. I’m going to try and get my legs shaved before I get interrupted.

Renee.
:D

Hi

Here is a picture I took of the ash cloud on Oct 27, the day Etna erupted. It was taken from our front balcony at our temporary quarters. Hope you enjoy.
Renee

Ahh Renee...so much for the glamorous overseas life I had envisioned!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I can relate...not to the housing stuff but just the frustration because I have two kids throwing up with high fevers, a husband who pretends to be asleep so he doesn't have to help, and a bipolar teenager who is on a mission to make the youngest cry night and day.

I think I will take a glass of that Jim Beam if you don't mind...

I am so impressed with all your gym time. The only exercise I have gotten through all this is going up and down the stairs with loads of laundry. (as the teenager says, "What did you do? Open all your drawers and vomit into them???)

<LOL> you HAVE to laugh at it all at times. Let's remind ourselves, "this too shall pass".

::sending hugs across the ocean to Renee::

Suz

Good Morning,
It is another cloudy, yucky day. Last night was clear and I could see Etna real good. The lava is still shooting into the air. I could see the track of the lava going down the mountain. There is a new flow. It wasn't there a couple of days ago. I could also see small fires caused by the lava. Lucky for me, its going away from us not toward us.

Still don't know whats going on with the house. The repairman never showed up to fix the hot water heater or install the lights out back. Housing said come back tomorrow. Their favorite expression - tomorrow. Yeah right.

I've already had a repairman here this morning to fix my oven. Now it turns on when I want it to and actually stays on.

Yesterday I made it to the gym, did 25 minutes of cardio. I was wore out by the time I finished it. I pushed myself yesterday. I was covered in sweat. Gross, but I did feel good. Drank all of my water yesterday. I was so proud of me. We have to use bottled water for everything here. Can't drink or cook with tap water. Ate ok, not wonderful but not bad either.

Today I'm going to the gym and do some cardio and weight training. They said it takes 21 days to create a new habit. I'm trying to get back into an old habit. I wonder how long that takes. Its pretty quiet today. Have a parent teacher conference at the school. Oh joy. I do love those.

Got to get ready. Have a wonderful day.
Renee

Suzannah, thank you for the hugs. Hope your kids are feeling better. There's nothing worse than sick kids.:)

Hi
Here is a picture of me hiking on Etna the day before she erupted. We are not at the crater at this point. Where looking for mushrooms and chestnuts to go with lunch. Didn't find any but got some great pictures and had alot of fun.

Renee

Hi Renee ::waves:: Looks like we have both survived another day!

Just wanted to pop in and check on your volcanoes and inept repairmen. I had to smile yesterday in the midst of running up and down the stairs with ice packs and motrin...thinking about all the different things we are all going through here...we are all survivors!!!!

I am wishing you a smooth day for once...keep up the cardio! I am going to work...will check in later.

Suz

Buon giorno.

Buona sera (means good afternoon or evening)

I'm so tired right now I come go to sleep sitting at the computer. Yesterday didn't do a whole much. Didn't make it to the gym. The parent teacher conference took much longer than I thought it would. But good things came out of it. They've pretty figured out why my son is having trouble in school. They know how to fix it. We hope. My oven works. They still haven't been in to fix my hot water. I took a lukewarm shower this morning. When they come around looking for rent money I'm going to tell them domani- which means tomorrow. Hah, I'll show them.

Went and had my pap smear this morning. Because they are going to have to send it to Germany to be read, its going to take about 5 weeks until I get the results. Talked to the dr. She was pretty nice. Was the first one to explain things to me. Like what my options are. If this was comes back the same and the test for hpv are negative-which the last were, then I can either start getting my pap done every 6 months instead of 4 months or I can get it treated. What that means is the would scrape my cervix. The would peal a layer of it off. I don't know, that sounds painful. I'll have to think about that.
After the dr I went Christmas shopping. Had fun and then went to the gym for 30 minutes of cardio. By the time I finished I was sweating like a pig. Took a quick shower and went to lunch with husband. I ate back everything I worked off. Full Italian meal and it was great except for the dessert. It smelled like coffee and tasted like coffee. Gross. I had pasta, grilled chicken breast, broccoli, potatoes, an appretizer. But I did drink water with lunch. I will not be eating supper tonight. I feel gross.

I was up half the night finishing up my daughters project. I had to type a bunch of stuff. Went to bed after 12 and got up before 6. Would like to take a nap but I have to go pick the kids up from school. 30 minutes down and 30 minutes back. Maybe I'll take a nap instead of cleaning the kitchen. Can't go to bed early, Elizabeth has a choir concert tonight. She is so excited.
Well, I've got to head down the mountain. Will try and check in later. Renee.

Man alive.

I am exhausted just reading this.

I'll take a nap instead of what I would usually do..oh wait. That's also take a nap.

Grazie.

Ditto...I would take the nap!!!! (but then I always do)

Glad to hear you are surviving Renee. I thought about getting up and exercising after I read your account but then I thought, "Domani!"

Arfain's new Italian word of the day.

Pisolino.:yawn:

Hi
Well, its 9 at night and I'm just now getting around to posting. Was up most of the night so I was very tired this morning. Still am. I laid down for a hour this morning and just as I got up to start my housework the phone rang. The electrician was on the way to install the security lights in the back of the house. They didn't speak any English. It was fun trying to communicate. They looked around to see what needed to be done and then left. They told me something before they left, I assumed it was they would be back in a while. Two hours later they finally came back. Cost me 90 euro. The landlord was suppose to pay it. I'll take it out of the rent. The rent is getting smaller every day.
Went to the gym and got on the cardio for 30 minutes. Didnt real have time for anything else. Went grocery shopping along with everyone else.
Having a fat day. Feel really fat. could be I'm super tire. I think I'll got to bed. Talk to you later. Renee.

Portare quest'affitto e spingerlo.

Your new phrase of the day: "Take this rent and shove it."

:eek:

Way to go on exercising!

Hi
I like that phrase.
Dont have much planned for the day. Do a little baking. Do a little shopping. Take the kids to see Harry Potter movie. Clean house. Same old stuff.

ITs pretty today. Etna was awesome last night. The lava flow was scary to see, its getting down the mtn. As long as it doesn't get here I'm ok. Talk to you later, I need to get ready to get going on my errands.

Renee.:)

<LOL> Chumlette's "phrase of the day" really caught the spirit!

Is the Harry Potter in English?

One thing I admire about you is that even if your day is crazy you still put exercise as a priority. I need to learn that.

Keep an eye on that lava!

Suz

We ALL need to learn that. Exercise Number One!

Are you covered in lava? What did you do yesterday? All this lava talk makes me nervous. So, if you walk around barefoot in your backyard, does the pumice give you a pedicure-like softness?

Here is your phrase for today:
Chi è l'uomo magnifico che insegna l'aerobica?

(Who is that gorgeous man teaching aerobics?)

Hi
No we are not covered with lava yet. It hasn't gotten to here since 1699, at least thats was the website said. Didn't do anything yesterday but sleep. I'm sick again. Its in my chest this time and I'm coughing up green mess. My throat hurts and I've lost my voice. Blah.

Did work on my resume for about an hour. I've got to get toner so I can print it. But I don't feel like it. I think i'm going to try and get in with the dr today. Maybe on the way home I'll stop and get some. I have to buy it on the ecomony because the exchange doesn't sell the kind I use.

Not much else is going on. I'm going back to bed.
Take care.
REnee.

PS Harry Potter was in English, we saw it on the base. Movies are free there.

Poor baby. I definitely know how you feel. Now take your own advice. Stay in bed. Do not pass Go. Do not collect $200.

Sentire migliore e stare a letto! (Feel better and stay in bed!)

Love, your fellow cougher-in-arms

Good Afternoon,

I'm still sick. Feeling better today. Yesterday I felt horrible. We had a good Christmas. Even though 80% of our presents haven't made it. Got early with the kids to do the present thing and then cooked most of the day. After dinner, my sweet, loving husband cleaned up. I took a nap. When I talked to my parents last night I got jumped on for not going back to the doctor. Why bother? They are just going to give me cough syrup and motrin again. Their standard answer for everything. i'm at the same weight that I was at the beginning of the month. Which is good considering I'm also pmsing. And this is the first year I haven't gained weight at the holidays. I'm going to give myself a couple of more days and then start exercising. While I've been laying around I've had time to think and plan what I'm going to do. We shall see. Well, I need to go get more water. Have a good day.

Renee.

Poor Arf. You and I are the sick twins. I think you are wise to rest. You give ME that advice and then I am reminded that you often feel better, then do too much too soon, then feel like ****zu again. So, this time, don't get back into all the activity too quickly, ok? Merry belated Christmas, my friend!:doc:

Good Morning

Feeling much better today. I'm not coughing as bad. Going to take it easy today and tomorrow start exercising again. Its that tom and I'm bloated. My jeans are too tight, very uncomfortable.
Got some great Christmas presents. Got new silk jammies from hubby. Got all kinds of scrapbooking stuff from my parents. Got a new shirt and a toaster, got seat covers for my ghetto car. We still haven't gotten all of our presents from the family in the states. There are four more boxes to come. Maybe today. Going to spend the day cleaning. Oh joy. It looks like it is going to be a pretty cloudy day. Can't see Mt Etna. Too many clouds. Good reason to stay in a clean. Besides we are having a huge New Year's Eve party here and I would like the house to be clean. Nee to ge moving. Have a good day. Renee.:)

Wow! You are having a party already? You guys sure got popular fast! It will be fun to open presents after the holidays. I think presents are fun whenever they arrive! I hope you are feeling better soon, too. We write about our coughs too often.

Hi girlfriend. How are you doing today?? Feeling any better? Just wanted to check in on you and send you this...

:coach: :gflower: :dn

Hi
I'm feeling much better today. I even exercised. Did 29 minutes of kickboxing and 30 minutes of weight training. Sweated alot but it felt good. Went up Mt Etna on Saturday. The police was stopping everyone before we got close to the lava. But there is a trail that people are hiking up that will get us close to the flow. We were not prepared for hiking on Saturday so we came home. It was bitter cold up there. A good 30 degrees colder than at the house. We were hoping we would see snow because it was real cloudy but didn't see that either. Saturday night we had a horrible storm, really scared the kids. And it snowed on Etna. We didn't get any. I'm hoping we will get some snow this winter. The kids would love it.

Not much else is happening in my life. Just getting ready for the new year and the party.
have a good day.
REnee:D

Good Afternoon,
its a beautiful day for a party. I have spent most of the day cleaning and cooking. got a new dryer this morning so I have also spent the day doing laundry. Making chili and hot wings for the party. Also a cake and cinnamon rolls for breakfast. If I have time I'm going to make some cheese crackers. Busy busy day, the last day of the year. Got my goals done and my plans ready, I ready to make 2003 the healthiest year of my life. Its the year of me.

Have a good one.

Renee.:cheers:

HI
Had a good new years eve. Drank a little too much and got ill early in the evening. So I quit drinking very early and just watched everyone get drunk rest of the night. Will not exercise today just mainly resting. We rode up the mountain to see the snow. It was pretty strange, seeing snow and lava rock together. The snow was pretty and the kids loved it. Took some pictures. Tomorrow I plan on going to the gym if the kids go to daycare. If not I'm going to exercise at home. Keeping it short today, got to finish cooking dinner, ham, black eye peas and collard greens. Have a good day.
Renee.

MMMM...gotta love that southern cooking. As you know, I am a connoiseur. I love love love greens. And I made black-eyed peas today too. Mmm. Glad to know I'm not the only one hoping for some good luck...

Happy New Year, darlin'...we will be hugely successful this year with our health and with our job situations and with life! Maybe a visit to Sicily will be in the cards....

Good Morning

Its going to be a beautiful day. Yesterday wasn’t bad. I did 20 minutes of step aerobics and must have gone up and down the stairs 40 times during the day. That should count for something. But I ate like crap. Oh well, I’ll do better today.
Last night I could see the lava coming down the mountain. Its going to opposite direction from us – that is good. There is no skiing on the mountain this yet. That is bad. The slopes of both the north and south side have been destroyed. If we want to ski we have to head south a couple of hours. We will see.
Going to be heading down to the gym soon. Going to spend a couple of hours there.
Chumlette - as far as I'm concerned black eye peas and collards are health food. And yes, I'm definitely could use the luck this year - to find a job, to sell my house in NC. And hopefully a visit to Sicily will be in the cards this year. Think of all the fun we could have.

REnee
:)

Hey girl! Wow, I had no idea that the lava was getting at all close to you...I hope I misread your post.

Congratulations on doing the step and the steps yesterday! At least you are getting your exercise mindset in gear! What will you do at the gym today (I can't remember the time difference...perhaps you have already been there)? Have you made goals on what you want to eat? I think the eating is so hard. And the drinking water in the winter is hard for me too. Is it hard for you???

How long are you guys scheduled to be in Sicily? You won't ever return to North Carolina? Maybe you could rent your house until you sell it???

Too many questions, too little time...

Good luck today!

Good Morning,
Had a ok weekend. Went shopping spent alot of money. Exercise wise-I ran up and down the stairs for 20 minutes each day. I'm going for the buns of steel. Ate ok. Saturday we discovered that the gas company had taken out the meter for our stove. Therefore we have no gas to cook with. First they said it was a mistake but oh well they couldn't do anything until Tuesday. Its the weekend and Monday is an Italian holiday. Then they said if we wanted it back we would have to pay a 206 euro nonrefundable deposit. I told them to stick where the sun doesn't shine. I will either get a different type stove or have the landlord fix the problem by attaching the couplings for the stove to the rest of the gas connectors. I've already paid one deposit, I'm not going to pay another one. So until tuesday I'm using a camp stove and grill to cook with. The kids went back to school today, I now have my schedule back and in a little while I'm going down the mountain to the gym.

Chumlette, the lava isn't that close. The mountain is. And when its a clear day, you can see every little detail on the mountain even the lava. I would say the lava is 20 to 30 miles away. Its 9 k to Etna where the cutoff is. And from there the crater is another 3k. Anyways the lava is going the other way from us. And yes, eating right and drinking water in the winter is very hard. I have to struggle to do it. As far as returning to North Carolina we won't be returning to Cherry Point. If we go back it will be somewhere else. We don't want the kids back in the same schools that they were in before. They are horrible. We are looking for sometime somwhere warmer say Florida. Well, got to go.
Renee :D

Hi
Just thought I would post a picture I took from the top balcony this morning. I'm facing Mt. Etna but you can't see her because of the clouds. I thought it was kinda neat looking. Its probably snowing up there. Went to the gym and got on the elliptical trainer for 30 minutes. Worked up a sweat and then couldn't take a shower:( because there was no hot water. I'm going to do some step and weight training later. Got to finish cleaning house.
Renee:D

Running up and down the stairs? You are ambitious! LOL I'm glad you are not in harm's way. Enjoy your first day back in your regular schedule!!! (Sans kids)

Hi
Its been a good day. I've done good with my list that I didn't post. As far as exercise I've done:
30 minutes on the elliptical trainer
20 minutes of step aerobics
25 minutes of weight training
5 minutes of stretching

I need to do more stretching. Tomorrow I'm going to do yoga. I've eaten ok so far.
3 diet cokes(I know they arent good for me)
80 oz water
almond flavored crosssiant
2 oz turkey, 1 oz of cheese on whole wheat bread
5 olives
1 hersey mini
1 small slice of cake
1 cup of sugar free cranberry juice
it comes out to around 1100 calories

I'm going for around 1800 calories today so I should be ok. Well I've got to finish cleaning the house before the kids and husband get home. does lugging the vaccum up 4 flights of stairs count as exercise?

Chumlette, that is a mean mini challenge this week. Its scary. But I will do it.

Renee:D

:wave: Long time no chat Chick.

Ok My eyes are sore from reading your journal but I had to read the whole thing to catch up. And now that I have, there is no need for you to answer my question of Hows Italy?

Good Lord! Get this woman some Heated something........ Sounds like maybe working out at the gym is your best bet, then you'll always get a hot shower.

I love the pictures you've posted and the one with you in it is FAB... You look HOT already lady!

Didn't your hubby have a daughter in the states? Or did she move with you?

Sounds like visiting Italy would be better then living ay? I would love to go there sometime. Its on my list of places I dream to go. First New York....Have always wanted to visit there since I can remember, Maine and Montana. Also would like to see Italy, Greece and Alaska. Eh, Someday..... So whats the food like there? In my mind I would think its wonderful.

Renee sounds like your making sure to keep working out, which is great to keep in shape. Believe me, even if your not eating up to par your still expending those calories. Muscle...Muscle.......

I'm glad to catch up with you..........:hug: Missed ya!

Hey sweetie! Man you were rocking yesterday! All that exercise and eating within calories too! Jeez. You are becoming SUPERWOMAN. LOL Is the stove back on???

HI
Can you say "day from hell". The wind is blowing a gale. I've got so much ash in my hair you would had thought I had spent the day rolling around in it. Then we got the gas bill. It was more than my mortgage and all my utitilies combined. Thats without cooking and not having hot water and heat most of the month. So instead of doing all of the wonderful things I had planned, I spent the day in housing trying to straighten it out. It is still not straighten. I still have no gas to cook with. Someone was suppose to be here an hour ago to fix that but they are not here yet. Housing told me they would call me. Wrong answer. I told them I would not leave until it was fixed. Unfortunately the kids had to be picked up. but we email the director and are going above their heads tomorrow. So no exercise. But I ate good today.
Here is a picture of Mt Etna this afternoon. Yesterday we couldn't see her for the clouds. Here is the result. In the picture it looks far away but really it is only about 10-12 kilo away. I waiting for the snow to get here. It is suppose to rain the next 4 days on the coast. Maybe we will get snow. Wouldn't that be special. Tomorrow I will make it to the gym. Have a good one.
Maximum, Italy is better to visit than live. The food is great unless you order seafood, then it might be squid. Gross. My husbands daughter stayed with her mother. Now she is regretting it. They fight constantly and her grades in school have dropped.

REnee:)

Good Morning,

Its a beautiful cold morning. The kids missed the school bus this morning and my whole day so far is behind. Got my stove fixed last night. Should know sometime today about the other problems. Ended up walking for 20 minutes yesterday. Not much but at least it was something. Ate ok yesterday, not great but not horrible.
Today after I pick the kids up I'm going to stop in Motta and take a picture of the castle there. Its pretty cool. It was build by Norman invaders. About everything like that here was build by invaders. Going to the gym today. I'm going to get on the treadmill or elliptical trainer or both. Also going to do step aerobics and some weight training. Have a good day and take care.
REnee:cheer:

Wow. You have a busy and active day planned my friend. You go girl!!!

BURN BABY BURN....:super:
Don't forget to bring your bottled water....

Glad you got your stove fixed.......:D

Hi

I'm drinking lots of water. At least 2 liters a day. Can't drink the tap water so we buy it by the 2 liter bottle. Every couple of days I get a couple of 6 packs. Keep some in the fridge and every morning I get one out to drink during the day.
Was busy today. Went to the gym. It was packed. Couldn't get on the treadmill for a couple of hours so I signed up for the elliptical trainer. While waiting my turn I got on the life cycle for 15 minutes and used some of the weight equipment. So my exercise today was:
20 minutes of step aerobics
15 minutes of life cycle
30 minutes of elliptical trainer
50 minutes of weight training.

The elliptical trainer about kicked my butt today. I programmed weight loss intervals and it was hard. I was covered with sweat by the time I was finished.
Ate ok today also because I forgot to eat.
You know not working has it advantages. I have plenty of time to exercise. Don't have much anything else to do. The kids are in school and it only takes a couple hours a day to keep the house clean. So I exercise. Not bad except I don't have very much money to go shopping with and I love to shop.
About got the issue with the gas bill straighten out. The housing office told me not to pay it. That the landlord is going to have to pick up a great deal of it. They feel it was caused by faulty equipment. All I know is that I was cold a whole lot last month. Its cold tonight. Very cold and the wind is blowing again. Well its about my bed time. Its almost 11 and I have to be up at 6 to get the kids ready and off to school. Have a good day.
Renee:)

I assume you work out during the day? What do all these people that take up the machines do for a living?

Do you find that people are generally in good shape there? You know how you go differant places and depending on where you are at the people are either heavy or fit? Like where my mom lives In Georgia... There is not a street where there isn't someone Power walking or running or biking.

Sounds like your bustin bootie chicklette......


:o I admire you....... Soon I will get in the groove....

Arf, I started sweating just READING about your workout, girl. Remember that movie where Bette Midler lost all that weight while she was locked in a room somewhere and all that was on TV were exercise shows? Your story reminded me of that for some reason.

Man, I've gotta get a life.

Hi
Yesterday I took it esay. Just did 45 minutes of aerobics. I was sore and it hurt to go up and down the stairs. Ate good. Drank lots of water and spent alot of time in the potty. Got some more fruit yesterday. The oranges were on sale for 44 cents a pound so I go 2.5 lbs. Lost 2 lbs since last week so I am happy. Today I'm getting my body fat done and am working out like a mad woman. Its Friday and I'm so happy.

Maximum-most of the people in the gym are Navy people who have to maintain a certain fitness level and weight or spouses who have no jobs because there aren't any. In a couple of weeks it will calm down at the gym. You know once you get past that initial stage of resolutions. The all important one. I'm going to lose weight this year one. Alot of the people in there the other day I hadn't seen before. As far as people being in good shape, well most of the Italians are thin but as far as being in shape I don't know. You don't see them exercising. As far as the Americans, most of the military is in pretty good shape.I was impressed because most of the Navy people I had been around in the past weren't but the ones here do exercise. As far as the civilian personnel, its about split evenly. You don't see many people running or power walking. Its not really safe to do it off base. MWR sponsers alot of fitness activities. Including hikes of the month to different locations. I like those. We are skipping the one this month because its too cold for the kids to go on.

Chumlette, I like that Bette Midler movie. sometimes thats how I feel. Exercise just because I'm bored and have nothing else to do. I'm going to do that today. I'll let you know how the body fat testing goes. It might be in the form of a pm if I'm like really embarrassed. Have a good day.

Renee:D

PULEASE.... Your 146 How embarrasing could it be.......!

And hey I ate a ORANGE yesterday, and thought of you . LOL

Hi
Got my body fat tested. It was 32%. It should be 17 - 28% with 25 being optimal. BLah! It was interesting how they did it. First I got on a scale attached to a computer. They took 2 lbs off for my clothes and shoes. I weighed in at what I did at home. Thats a plus, means my scale is right. Then she took a tape measure and found the exact shop on my arm, waist and thigh to test. Then she took some caliphers attached to the computer and pinched me in all three spots twice. It was all average to come up with my body fat. ---On my waist it was just above my hip bone and it measured the lowest. That surprised me. I thought my thigh would. Anyways her recommendation was to increase my exercise and cut a few calories. Aim for a 1lb loss a week. Nothing more. She told me to remember all the exercise in the world is useless is my eating is up to par. Told me I should come back again in 3 months to see how I am doing. Told me they were going to start offering some new classes soon. We'll see.
Anyways after doing that I did 30 minutes of cardio. I was tired adn didn't have the energy for anything else. Went out to lunch with hubby. Ate at the galley on base. It is only like $3.00 for this huge meal. Had pork chops with mushroom gravy, roasted potates, broccoli, a roll and a salad. Had skim milk to drink with it and no dessert. I had stirfry beef, rice and an eggroll for dinner. And more milk. did good with my water today.
Its turned bitter cold. They calling for it to drop into the 20's tonight. I think I'll put an extra blanket on the bed.
Not much else going on.
Have a good weekend.
Renee:D

Hi
Yesterday was cold, windy and wet. It snowed on the mountain. We got wind, rain and a little sleet. No exercise. Ate like crap. I was cold and all I wanted to do is eat.
Spent the morning at the school pulling out costumes. The elementary school is putting on Wizard of Oz and we have started working parties to get ready. Yesterday was costumes, next will be something else. There were tons of costumes from past shows, sound of music, oliver, the king and I, annie. It was neat to look at. But that took all morning. Then I drove home in a storm.
Spent the afternoon on the couch, wrapped in a blanket watching movies. Did dance around the kitchen while I was cooking. I think it was the wine talking. Oh well.
I think today we are going up the mountain to play in the snow.
have a good day. Renee.

Hi
Didn't make it up the mountain. It was too cold here. We didn't get snow but there is alot on the mountain from yesterday and I think it snowed some more today. We got cold and rain. :blah: Hung out around the house all day. Didn't change out of sweats, it was too cold in the house. They are working on getting us a bigger furnace that can handle the size of the house. They have figured out that ours is too small and thats why the gas bill was so high. It is working double to provide hot water and heat. It was working too well today. The kids never took off their pjs. We did clean the house from top to bottom. Must have walked up and down the stairs 100 times. There are 33 stairs from the first floor to the 3rd. And then 17 more to the 4th. No wonder it wears me out to go from 1st to 4th. Did eat good today. Drank lots of water. Tomorrow I'm going to the gym. Going to burn some calories. :laugh:
Have a good day.
Renee:)

I think it sounds like you burned a lot of calories yesterday, too!

I love hanging around in PJs. I just love it. I could work all day in PJs and not be uptight about it.

Hi
Chum if I could work from home, I would spend the whole day in my pjs. Its so comfortable.

Yesterday was a good day. Did 20 minutes of step aerobics and 30 minutes on the treadmill. Ate within my calories even with me having a piece of cake.
Felt pretty good about myself until I looked in the mirror at the gym. I had on shorts and my sports bra. There was all that fat hanging there in rolls around my waist and under the band of the bra. I was grossed out, it was nasty to see. New rule. Keep the tshirt on in the locker room. Change in the potty where there are no mirrors. Was pretty depressed after that. I also did 20 minutes of weight lifting and 10 minutes of stretching.

A note on how cold it is in my house. Yesterday after a hour of the butter sitting out to soften for the cake it was still hard. Hadn't soften a bit. And the landlady came by wanting rent. In her dreams. When every thing is fixed. Like thats every going to happen. She said she would come back tomorrow. I'm so tired of hearing that. Tomorrow, tomorrow. Every thing is tomorrow.

Anyways for today:
40 minutes of abs
40 minutes of arms
20 minutes buns and thighs
30 minutes cardio at the gym
20 minutes of step
Maybe all the exercise will make be feel better.

also, need to work on my job application, I keep putting it off. I need to pay some bills and go to the post office. Pick my son up at school and maybe stop by the red cross office for their open house. There's going to be food. also to do, fill and return, personal property tax statement, fill out and return membership to officers wifes club. (don't really want to but its something to do), and I've got to clean the bathrooms, sweep, vacuum and mop. I need to do some laundry, I'm about out of clothes.

I better get busy. Have a good day. Renee.
:) :) :D

Hello Over there.

Well Damn Girl! I don't think your working out enough. PFFFFF.. I have deemed myself utterly lazy after reading your journal. That body fat test sounds pretty neat. I'm probably 80% fat and thats being generous.

I kind of decided this morning that I'm not looking at myself in the mirror for a while. Only to do my hair, and make-up. Cause everytime I look at myself I get Pissed OFF! Eh -hem.

Keep on working out it will pay off. MAX-TAKE YOUR OWN ADVICE

Hi
Damn, its cold this morning. I have no heat again. The good news is today they are coming to put a new unit it. A bigger, better one that won't suck up the gas. They said they would be here sometime this morning. That means anytime between 7:30 and 2:00. I hope they come early. I can't exercise why waiting because you know as soon as I start they will show up. The gas company is also sending someone to check the lines for a gas leak. The owner of the house is upset about the gas bill. He is going to take care of at least part of it. Its so cold in here that it is hard to type.
Ok yesterday as far as exercise this is what I ended up doing:

40 minutes of abs
40 minutes of arms
10 minutes of thighs
20 minutes of walking.

by the time I got the hill to the base it was too late to go to the gym. I needed to get money out of the atm, it was down for 15 minutes, I needed to go to the thrift store, got there it had closed 15 minutes earlier. So I walked around the base for 20 minutes, went to the housing office yet once again and went to the minimarket and got some water.
So I didn't get as much cardio in as I wanted but I did get alot of weight work in. I think as far as that goes I'm going to concentrate on my abs and arms. I'll probably do some thigh work each day because my inner thighs are nasty. They jiggle like jello. I'm counting down the days until spring. I'm ready for warmth. But with spring comes short sleeve shirts and shorts. I don't want to gross anyone out. Also there are 2 pools here. I would like to put a bathing suit only and not cry. I put mine on and took a picture from the back. UGH is all I can say. Why didn't anyone tell me I looked that bad from the back. I think of all the times I spent on the beach in it. What people must have been thinking. OMG, what is she thinking? I should have had a tent on. Anyways, enough on this. I know my fanny is getting smaller. Most be the stairs, the front of my thighs are doing pretty good too. Its those dreaded inner ones. Curses.
The exercise is paying off in one aspect. I'm getting stronger. Usually when I do my arms tape, I can't finish all the reps for pushups and tricep dips. I was able to yesterday.:ex: . so that made me feel real good.
Anyways I did real good with food yesterday also. Drank all of my water. so it really was a good day. Got my house real clean too. Even the bathrooms:cheer: .
Have a good day.

Renee

If the repairman gets here early, I plan on doing 20 mnutes of aerobics, 35 minutes of pilates, 10 minutes of abs, 10 minutes of thighs and go to the gym for 30 minutes of cardio. If not, I will do the aerobics, gym and abs. And maybe some stretching. I need to do more of that.

You are the EXERCISE MACHINE. Wow. You are putting me to shame, girl. Awesome!

I think your landlord should share the costs of that enormous bill. It's not YOUR fault, afterall. Insanity prevails there. I am glad they are trying to fix everything.

WHAT???

40 MINUTES OF ABS???? How the HELL is this possible? HOW? How do you do 40 minutes of ABS?

and 40 MINUTES ON YOUR ARMS....... Someone pick my chin up off the floor! You know! You are really getting on my nerves!:c(

THATS IT....... I am mentally sucking all your ambition out to ME!!! I was feeling grand about doing 15 on my treadmill this morning. PFFFFFF. Thats pee wee work next you.......

You MY DEAR ARE GOING TO BE HOT.....HOT...HOT........

So hey hows the seafood there?

Hi

Maximum, you did it. You sucked my ambition out yesterday because I didn't get anything done. Nope, nothing. Not a thing. No housework, no exercise, nothing. But I see you got on the treadmill. Thanks great. As far as the 40 minutes, they are exercise tapes. They go by quick and before you know it 40 minutes have past. Of course, on the last set I'm about to die. The pain.:c(

Ok, I waited around all day for the stupid repairman to show. He didn't come in the morning so around 1:30 my hubby gets home to spell me. Of course, by the time I got to the base it was time to pick up the kids. When I got home the liason from housing nad the tech was here but the guy with the new unit didn't show. He was too busy. Well, I guess I'm going to be too busy to pay my rent, aren't I.

Ate good yesterday. Didn't drink enough water. Bad Renee.:( But I GOT ON THE SCALE THIS MORNING AND HAVE LOST 2 MORE POUNDS :laugh: Slow and steady is what I'm going for. I would like to be at 135 by March 31. I don't think I'm asking a whole lot.

I have a busy day planned. Got to make up for yesterday. going shopping and to the gym. Going to exercise my abs, arm and legs. Clean house and work on my resume. I need a new battery for my cell phone which means I have to go to an Italian store where no one speaks English and they all act like I'm a dumbass. Oh well. The joys of life. Its a long weekend so I'm going to rent some movies and video games. No plans for the weekend. The weather is going to be bad anyways. I think I'll stay home and keep warm.

Have a good day. Renee:D

OMG, you crack me up. And Maximum is hilarious as well. Max, I am pleased you finally said what all of us are thinking.

And I'm sorry, Renee, but a FORTY MINUTE ABS TAPE DOES NOT GO BY FAST.

You are nuts.

But of course, that is what I like about you.

muto come = dumb ass

Hi
Well I the only thing on my list that I did today was shop. :laugh: I'm so good at that. no exercise. No nothing but go to my son's school and staighten out a problem. children, what are you to do with them?
Maximum, the only seafood that I've had here is squid and its nasty. It like rubber. My son didn't even like it. The locals told us not to eat any fish that we didn't catch ourselves. I've seen it in the grocery store. The shrimp is tiny. The fish, well at home if I got caught with something that small in my boat I would have been in big dodo. I got a seafood pasta dish at the restaurant. It had squid in it(gross), itty bitty shrimps and something I couldn't identify. I ate the pasta.
I figure I'll exercise now because once I get a job I won't have as much time. Of course thats if I get a job. Besides before you know it, it will be time for sleeveless tops and bathing suits. Its my goal to look good in both.

Chum, it kill me. There's people who exercise alot more than me. They don't call me dumbass, they call me Americano. To them its the same thing. I ended up buying a new phone. It was just as cheap as buying a battery. Sad, isn't it.

Ate wonderful today, even if I was stressed at time.got lots of fruit and veggies when I went shopping. Got new yoga pants. Maybe I'll get me a new exercise video. Maybe I'll try bellydancing. I think thats suppose to be good for the waist or the hips or something. I don't know if I can get my hips to move that way. They would probably get stuck.
Well, I think I'm going to put on my sweats and heavy socks and a hat and go to bed. yes, it is cold. My room especially. When we got here, one of the Italian National employees told us: It never rains in Sicily. Well, let me tell you what, it thats not rain pouring out of the sky i don't know what is. Its been raining so hard that coming home I about flooded out the car. the fog is so thick I can't see the neighbors. and I live in a townhouse. Maybe it will turn to snow.:D
Have a good one.
Renee:D

Good Morning,

It has been a quiet weekend. Its a holiday weekend so everyone is home for 3 days instead of 2. Kinda throws a curve on my exercise. Didn't do anything yesterday, spent most of the day on the couch wrapped up in a blanket. It was very damp and it went right through me. Stayed in my pjs most of the day. Watched videos with my hubby and kids. Watched a cute kids video "Lilo and Stitch".
It was raining for most of the day. In fact it poured. Made brownies. But besides the brownies I ate great. Wasn't very hungry.
Today we are hoping to go hiking. and then go visit some friends. It depends on how fast we get moving. Have a good weekend.
Renee:)

Good Morning,
It has been a good day. Ate great, got exercise and drank my water. What more could you ask for. Oh, and I got my electric bill. It was only 141 euro for 2 months. I was relieved after my gas bill. Next, the phone bill. That one is little scary.
Mt. Etna has quit erupting and we were able to get up it today. So we went hiking on the lava flows. They are still steaming, probably will for a while. It was cool. The shops that we went to the day before it erupted were open, at least the ones that weren't destroyed. Some are under lava. The restrooms are under lava. The road is gone. But the bar is still there.
Got a busy day planned for tomorrow, to include lots of exercise.

Have a good one.
Renee:water:

OMG I just posted to your journal at it disappered. GRRRRR

As I was saying, hmm thats just to bad you weren't able to excersice much....tisk...tisk! AND WHO MY DEAR? Who workout MORE then you? WHO?

:hop:2 pounds GONE :hop: Thats great! On the road to a tiny tush...

Hi
Ok yesterday I did 30 minutes of aerobics and 50 minutes of weight training. Went to the gym but couln't get on the treadmill or the cross trainer for a couple of hours so I blew it off. Ate only soso. My TOM arrived and I'm yucky. Eat, eat eat is all I want to do.But I did drink my water. I have alot on my list to do today. But I really done feel like doing it. Just want to go back to bed. Terrible isn't it. Anyways here is what i've got planned.
1. exercise
2. clean house again, or should I say finish
3. call about doing some volunteer work, it will give me something to do and I can put it on my resume.
4. FINISH MY RESUME
5. buy water and milk
6. call state farm, the way I see it they owe me about $300
7. laundry, so my hubby will have something to wear to work tomorrow.

Well, I guess I get started.
Maximum thanks for stopping by. And one day soon you will be the exercise queen.
Renee

:hm: Ya think?

MMMMMMM Maybe....After today Maybeeee.........

Hi
Ok, so I didn't do everything on my list. I took a nap instead of getting started right away. Made me feel better and I had more energy afterwards.
So what did I do? I did 35 minutes of step(it about killed me, I was covered with sweat), 40 minutes of abs(yes, chumlette I said 40 minutes), 40 minutes of arms and 20 minutes of buns and thighs.
My house looks wonderful. It even smells good. I cleaned it from top to bottom and even mopped. The only thing I didn't do was vacuum the 3rd floor. I carried the vacuum all the way up from the first floor and realized I didn't have a transformer up there. It won't work without the transformer. And I just didn't feel like walking back down to the first to get one.
I didn't call about volunteering, I didn't buy milk or water. I never left the house. I did spend some time on my resume. Oh maybe 10 minutes. I didn't call the insurance company, didn't feel like arguing with them.
I did do laundry so now I have tons of socks to match.
Maybe tomorrow I will get more done. Doubt it, I've got to make 3 dozen cookies for girl scouts.

Maximum: I believe you will be a exercise queen. If I can do it anyone can. Of course, I have nothing better to do. I'm so bored!

Have a good day.
Renee:D

Good morning,

Going to have a busy productive day. I wish. Anyways, I'm right proud of myself for 2 things. I had gotten into a nasty habit of weighing myself everyday. So far this week I haven't. I think I've broken that habit. It was too depressing anyways. And normally by now I would have had 2 diet cokes. I haven't had any. Of course I'm out. But I could have driven to the base yesterday and got them. I'm going to see how long I can go with out one.
I got a list of things to do, of course, it is not as long or exciting as Chumlette's.
1. exercise
2. clean house again,
3. call about doing some volunteer work, it will give me something to do and I can put it on my resume.
4. FINISH MY RESUME
5. buy water and milk
6. call state farm, the way I see it they owe me about $300
7. take a nap.
8. make 3 dozen cookies for Girl Scout bake sale

Well, I'm going to accomplish at least one thing on my list right now. And thats take a nap.
Have a good day.
Renee:)

What kind of COOKIES are ya going to make?:D

Hi
Did very little on my list. Oh well. That life. Only did 10 minutes of exercise. My body is paying me back. got on the scale this morning, I'm up 3 pounds from last week. I'm so depressed. Its that TOM of month doing it to me. BLAH!

Today I'm going to:
1. Exercise
2. Girl Scouts

that all I have planned. If I get anything else done, great. If not ok.

Maximum, I made chocolate chip cookies. they are the easiest. Try making brownies. for some reason they didn't come out very well. They stuck to the bottom of the pan. They were cooking very well. Might have been the oven. Its strange at times. The cookies came out good. At least my hubby saids they did.

Have a good weekend.
REnee

Well, my friend. I am always laughing b/c you, like me, start out with a huge list of chores.

Hey! One of the pleasures of Girl Scouts was the Thin Mints. What happened to those? And the Savannahs? Now the mothers have to make the cookies? What's with that? Not that your cookies wouldn't be a delight, but I doubt they can compare with THIN MINTS. Such a sad world in which we live.

You are the AB MONSTER. Man. Girl. I don't know how you do it!

Hey Renee,

Are you telling me you didn't partake in Chocolate Chip Cookies? Pulease, Are you real? LOL Have you ever tried the BALL for abs? I have one sitting here staring at me. Soooooon.....

I've been trying to finish my resume for over a year now. Why are they so difficult to finish. I'm getting ready to just take it somewhere and have some else put it on there list of things to do.:D

Hi
No Maximum, I didn't eat the cookies. I rather bake them than eat them. I haven't tried using the ball for ab exercises. There's a class offered that I'm thinking of trying. It would be something different and new.

Chumlette, today was just a bake sale. Next month the girl scout cookies come in and we start selling them. The girls are trying to raise month for camp in Naples. They are working on a badge for Sicily and Italian. They're going on trips to various locations and learning lots of such. Such fun. They still sell thin mints they are the best.

I did good today with eating even with the bakesale. Only got one thing and then drank a lot of water. My exercise was walking all over the base in the pouring down rain. Going to take it easy rest of the day, watch movies and relax.

Have a good weekend .
Renee

Hi
Got up this morning and it was pouring, again. That really sucked because we had to drive up the coast this morning. We went and looked at an apartment in Acireale. Its a 3 bedroom 2 bath. About 900 feet smaller than what we are in now. But my hubby loved it. Of course it didn't hurt that it was a block from the beach. From the balcony you can see the public park and beach. Very pretty. Its right smack downtown Acireale. Everything is right there. The market is a 10min walk. Its on the 3rd floor. There is a small elevator but I would usually take the stairs. We have see if the school bus picks up there. If not we can not move there. will find out tomorrow.

After lunch we went up to Mt Etna and played in the snow. We didn't get every far up before the road was closed due to snow. We didn't even make it to the ski lodge. There were alot of people parked on the side of the road playing in the snow. There was about 2 feet of snow. Very cold. The kids had alot of fun. I took pictures, fell on my fanny and got snow down my pants. Gave up and got in the car.

Over all I ate ok. Did eat some oreos but my calories where still on the low side. Did drink all of my water. I thought my bladder would explode before we got home. I'm not like my 8 yr old son. I can't just go anywhere on the side on the road.

Have a good week.
Renee:)

hahaha Yellow snow!

Your day sounds fun!

And I definitely vote for the new apartment IF it has HEAT and a WORKING STOVE! On the beach is my dream apartment. You will exercise all the time. How far is it from the base?

I wish I knew someone with a girl scout. I love Thin Mints. Though it is probably a good thing I don't have any.

Hey that aparment sounds really nice. Just think that would 900 less ft to clean? Unless you are one who likes to clean.

Can't wait to see your pictures..hint hint.....

Hey Chum: Did you know they make Girl Scouts Thin Mint Ice Cream? EGADS!!!

Good Morning,
the sun is shining and I don't hae to wait on any repairmen. Yes, no repairmen. Our new heat seems to be working better. The house is actually a comfortable tempature.

The only exercise I got yesterday was running up and down the stairs. Fun, fun. The repairman was late and took forever. They never bring the right tools and always have to leave and get them, I think they are just going to the coffee shop for some espesso. Who knows.

the apartment is about 25 minutes from base by the way of a toll road. It would be highway all the way. Thats not bad. We don't know if and when we get to move. We have to wait on the housing office to do everything they have to do. That can take weeks.
Yes, Chumlette an apartment on the beach would be the dream apartment. Especially since it has airconditioning. Most places here don't. And it gets hot in the summer. They said the tempeture difference from the mountain to the base is 1 degree. Its 102 instead of 103. Hopefully on the beach it won't be that hot.
No Maximum, I hate doing housework. I don't care if the house is spotless. Now my hubby on the other hand does. His mothers house was always spotless. But I'm not his mother and don't care to be. I think there are more important things than a spotless house.

Ok, I'm going to post some pictures. Some are from the lava flow, you can see the steam coming off of it. Some we took when we were playing in the snow.

My list for the day:
1. clean house
2. exercise
3. buy beer and cigerattes for hubby
4. daycare meeting
5. resume(a friend is opening up a position in his shop and wants me to apply)
thats all I have planned for the day.
Renee

Ok, the previous picture was of me and kids standing on the lava. The lava was warm and there is steam all around us. By the way, lava is still flowing, the govt has just decided its not a risk anymore.

Renee

Ok, on the last one I was standing on what was left of the road looking up at the lava flow and the top of the mountain.
Renee

That was more of the lava and the mountain. Where the lava is use to be the public restrooms. They were nice, had toilet paper and seats and now they are gone.

Renee

The last picture was one I took Sunday. It was snowing real hard. The picture is of the road and the spot were we pulled over playing. It was bitter cold.

That was my son making a snowman. The next and last one is the kids and me standing in the snow freezing. i hope you enjoyed the pictures.

Renee

Hi there!:wave: I'm new here Bettyboop:D I was just reading your journal and I like the pictures you shared with us. How interesting! Well I hope you get that apt you want. Congrats on the weight loss so far!:gflower:

Loved the photos, girl. When will you ever get over the seated and papered toilets being destroyed by lava??? ha ha ha

So, how'd you do with your list? Don't even ASK about mine. Sigh.

Hi
Chumlette, its hard getting over decent toilets being destroyed. The list, well, I got my hubby his cigerattes and beer. made it to my meeting. I've started cleaning house. I did work my arms for 40 minutes. Thats about it. Now I have worked on my job hunt. I printed some of the forms I needed to feel out. There is a part time temporary budget analyst job coming available. Its a friends shop, maybe. Who knows. But I've gotten the forms I needed.

I'm working on getting an area set up for my sewing and craft stuff. I'm almost finished. Then I'll have an area to be creative in. Well, thats all for now. Got things to do. I hope to do some ab and thigh work. Doubt I'll get any cardio in.
Have a good day.Renee

I'm glad ya'll liked the pictures. Betty Boop, welcome to my journal and congrats on your weight loss.

Chumlette, what happened to your list?

Thanks for the pictures! Your kids looked like they were having a blast.

Renee, Thanks for always visiting my journal and encourging me. It really does help.

That would be great if you go that job? Wouldn't it?

You know what gets me about back east? Well Georgia, Tennesee, Virginia area? They don't have toilet seat covers? That just drives me nuts!

Hi
Another busy day planned. I'm going to finish my resume so I can turn it in tomorrow. I helping a friend with a red cross funraiser. I'm going to the gym and I've got to clean my house again.

Did good yesterday. Was tired so I went to bed early. Missed the state of the union address. I just couldn't get up at 3am to watch. Ended up the only exercise I got yesterday was 40 minutes of arms. Just didn't get around to it. But I did get my craft corner organized. Ate good yesterday. I drank all of my water. And I stayed away from the junk food. That was a plus.

Have a good day.
Renee:D

Good morning,

had a pretty good day yesterday. No exercise beside walking across the base 4 times. That should count for something. Ate wonderful. Drank my water. Had to pee all night. The kids got their report cards and they were suprisingly good. Especially my sons. Except for reading/language arts he has all A's. He stuggles with reading which hurts his language arts. But in math, science, social studies, health and host nation he is excelling. Made him feel good. My daughter, what can I say, she hates to study. got 3 c's, 2 A's, a B and a D. The d is in social studies, the a's in music and host nations. B in health. I was suprised about the c in math, was sure she would get a d. Horrible I know but that is her worst subject.

I got on the scale this morning and have lost a pound. See if I can maintain it though the weekend. Going to clean house, go to the gym and to the 3rd grade concert. tomorrow there is no school again. But I have parent teacher conferences. Saturday I'm taking the kids to the movies and who knows what else. sunday is shot, have a function at hubbys boss'. Should be interesting, his daughter and my son fight constantly. They call each names. Can't see how she acts around her father.:D

have a good day.
Renee

congrats on the pound down and have a wonderful time at the movies. what are you going to see?

take care and have a great day.

Hey sweetie! Way to go getting all your water in and going down a pound! Wahoo!

What is "host nation?" Is that civics? History?

Try to stay in control this weekend, food wise. I know you can do it, missy.

What did you decide on the evil cells???

Hi
I feel like throwing up. I'll never drink again.

Host nation: is the study of the local culture, traditions and language. all the kids at oversees dod schools take it. Here they are learning about Sicily and the Italian language. My kids know more Italian than my husband and me. The landlady was here last night. We didn't know what she was saying my 10 yr old did. Pretty sad.

The evil cells are probably going to be frozen and scraped away. I'm tired of dealing with it. Unfortunately they don't have the laser here so it will be done the old fashion way.

We are going to see Treasure Planet. Its a kids movie. Thats all we ever see is children's movies.

Going to try and make myself feel better.
Have a good day.
Renee

Hi
Feeling better. Ate good today, no binges. NO ALCOHOL. I could never be a drunk. I hate how it makes me feel. Out of control. Not a good feeling.

Went and saw Treasure Planet with the kids. Cute movie. Hubby slept through the whole thing. A friend and 3 of his kids went with us. He stayed awake. He thought it was a funny show also. Afterwards we went to his house and tormented his wife. Fun day.

Drank lots of water trying to get the rum completely out of my system. Drank so much water that I've sent half the day pottying.

Only did some stretching today. Not much exercise but something important that I don't do enough of.

Have a good day.
Renee

Good Morning,

Its a pretty morning. The sun is shining, no rain. I'm so glad. I think the rain was getting to me. Have a busy day planned. Going to do laundry, make15 bean soup and go to a luncheon at hubby's bosses house. The menu is mexican. I'm going to try and fit in some exercise today. I've decided this month I'm going to concentrate on my abs and arms. Spring is getting close. I'm going to want to wear short sleeve shirts. My arms need some work. I'll work my whole body but do extra on these 2 areas. Of course I'm going to do cardio. I'm going to start back running this month. Will have to do it on the treadmill because its not safe to do in anywhere else. I would like to run a 10k this year.
I've started the day off with a healthy breakfast and I'm ready to get started with my day.
Have a good Sunday.
Renee:D

Good Morning,
Made it through the luncheon intack. Only 2500 calories at one meal. the desserts were sinfully but that didn't stop me. I enjoyed my meal. Now I'm moving on. Will exercise extra hard today and rest of the week to make up for it.

Anyways I lost 1 pound last week. I'm back down to 148. I need to change my stats to reflect my gain and loss.

Didin't get the soup done yesterday so I'm going to do that this morning. Started laundry but there was so much I couldn't finish. I did so some stretching and abs work yesterday. Felt good to move.

It is going to be another beautiful day. I have lots planned. Clean house, laundry, make soup, pay the other gas bill, get gas coupons for the cars, go to the post office, exercise, exercise, exercise, resume, call doctor again, call about volunteering. I think thats it but it will take most of the day and I have to pick the kids up at 2:15. Then its homework.

Have a great day.
Renee:D

Good morning,

Yes, chumlette, that Italian red wine will do it to you everytime. Especially if you are a non drinker. I stay away from it. It will probably be another 14 years before I drink again. I just can't handle it.

I did good yesterday. Ate within my calories. Drank my water (and had to potty all night). I went to the gym and got on the treadmill- did intervals with me running half to the time. got off the treadmill covered in sweat. I also did 10 minutes of stretching. This month I'm going to try to do some stretching every day. Needless to said I felt pretty good about myself yesterday.

Today I'm going to do my abs, arms and thighs. I' also going to the gym and either get on the cross trainer or the treadmill. Got to go back to the NEX and return the toner I got yesterday. Got home and the box was empty. Boy was I ticked. Going to clean my house again. Seems like thats all I do.

Its looking like its going to rain again today. The wind is blowing a gale and its cold. Don't want to spend too much time outside. Have a good day.
REnee8-|

Hey sweetie! Good for you for your exemplary behavior yesterday!!!!! This Italy residency is really doing wonders for you! You'll be like Mwolverine...a MACHINE after your DH's tour.

And it seems like the most normal thing in the world to clean your house all the time when you have kids around. Don't they mess things up pretty good? (I used to when I was a kid. DLIP STILL does...sigh.)

What's up with your home anyway? You moving?

Yeah Renee are you going to move?

I am endlessly cleaning this house. Drives me insane. But at this point I'm glad I have one to clean.

Hey maybe I''ll do some arm weights I have those sitting right here. I could lift them? I think... We shall see.

I HATE GETTING DRUNK. I just like getting to the point of UPHORIA then thats it. Glad your feeling better. Im glad I read how awful you feel cause I was debating wether or not to tie one on. BUt whats the point.

Sounds like your doing great. And whats up with your stats.

Hi
I had a wonderful post then my internet connection went byebye and I lost it.

We don't know when we are moving. We are waiting on permission and funding. Sometimes the govt is so slow.

I clean house alot. It seems to always be a mess. Kids. What can I say. Did good yesterday. Went to the gym. Did the elliptical trainer for 30 minutes, 2.80 miles. Worked out with weights for 50 minutes. I'm a little sore today but not bad. Spring is less than 50 days, I would like to wear sleeveless tops this year. I need to get rid of my bat wings before then. Its a beautiful, cold, windy day today. It will probably rain before the day is out but right now the sun is shining. Its also an Italian holiday, again. I think its the St Agaita Festival or something like that. Seems like its an excuse to party. But what do I know.

Chumlette, the doctor from home wants me to wait until this summer to have the surgery. He had a few choice words about the surgery they would do here. Something about behind the times, backwards, pain. So I'm having another pap in early May and if it is still abnormal will I go home in June I'll have the surgery in Atlanta. I trust the doctors there more anyways. If the doc says its ok to wait who am i to argue with him. My Mom puts great faith in him. Of course, she works for him.

Well, I'm off to my day. More housework, exercise, drink my water so I can float, try and find some toner for my printer. Fun stuff. Have a good day.
REnee:D

Hey girl!!! I think if the doctors say you can wait and your instinct is to wait, then wait. Just not too long. I thought you'd be having a military doctor do the surgery? No??

Woohoo on the exercise! You are so consistent! Is the crosstrainer an elliptical? Or a ski machine? You are in such fantastic cardio shape.

You DO seem to have a lot of festivals there. Do you attend them? What are they like? Just a parade or food or church stuff? Do people take the day off work for them? You know me, I love to hear the details of other cultures!

Have a good day, my friend. Don't float TOO far away!!! LOL

Are you still at a festival? Where you been, la mia piccola goccia di rugiada?? (my little dewdrop?)

Hi
Been a busy couple of days. Worked out at the gym yesterday while waiting for places that I had to go to open. Got my resume finished and turned in. Now hopefully someone will be impressed with my skills and want to hire me.

Didn't work out today, clean house very good. Ran more errands.

I tired, I'm going to bed.

Renee:)

I was just thinking I might get more done if I quite coming to DT and stop watching t.v.

Feels good to have the resume done Huh? My friend just told me that when they ask me questions about things that are on my resume to be prepared with a answer. ??? Some of that stuff is so long ago I can't remember. I think I might UH and MMMM and hmmm a lot on interviews. HA HA.....

Gosh hope you can move to a place on the beach. That would be great. So how long has it been since you lived in Georgia?

Oh hey, the other day I ran on my treadmill as fast I could, mostly cause I was so stressed out and it sounded good until I kept hearing this loud BOOM BOOM BOOM... It was my rear end thrashing up and down ~~~~pathetic I tell you.

Good morning

It is a beautiful, sunny day. Don't know how long it is going to stay this way. Well, today I start house hunting. I'm kinda of exciting, not just because we get to move but because it gives me something to do. I'm also going to start spending more time in the gym. Fun, fun.

Ended up being a quiet weekend. Just laid around and watched movies.

I'm pmsing and my back aches. I have an intense craving for salt. And am a little bloated. But I lost a pound and am down to 147. Hopefully, the scale will stay there and not go back up. I'm going to take carrot sticks and celery with me today to munch on.

Italian word of the day: Ciao means Hi or good bye. casual

Have a good day.
Ciao
Renee :)

Have fun on your search. Hope you find something wondeful! :rose:

Hi
Well, went to housing and looked at the database. Saw about 11 maybes. so today I start trips to them. I think today I am scheduled to look at 4 places that I liked and 1 that someone else picked. They are all apartments of various sizes. One is 4 bedrooms, and about 2080 sq feet. I'll believe it when I see it. Friday I'm going up to North Beach to look at some places. They all have a water view. That would be nice.

Yesterday I made it to the gym. Did 30 minutes on the treadmill and 30 minutes on the elliptical trainer. By the time I got off I was wore out and covered with sweat. So I showered and went ate lunch. Carrots, yellow and green peppers, cukes, cauflower and dip. Pretty healthy lunch. Drank lots of water yesterday. What started out as a beautiful day outside ended up pouring rain. Of course, I ddin't have an umbrella so I got wet.

It snowed alot on the mountain above us and it is beautiful.

Today I plan to go back to the gym for at least an hour. It the weather holds I'm going to walk around the base. If not I'll go to the library and play on the computer and read. I'm hoping all this exercise this week will help me lose more weight. Lately, I seem to be losing the same 3 pounds. I would like to lose some major inches this month. Especially off my waist. and thighs. I would my arms to be thin and shapely for spring. It is getting closer.

Italian phrase of the day: Buon Divertimento means: Have fun
so with that I close I have to head down to the base so I take my housing trip.

Buon divertimento
Ciao
Renee:D

Good luck today! You are seriously kicking butt with all the exercise, Arf. You will definitely lose inches this month. No other possibility exists!

Hi
My internet went bye bye for a couple of days. When I called my provider they kept telling me the same thing--a hour or 10 minutes more. Its an Italian provider. I get pop ups in Italian. My week was hell what can I say. Tuesday I was scheduled for a housing trip. I drove for an hour to get in and found that they had lost my schedule for the whole week. I was upset. I had to leave the office before I lost it. I sat in my car and cried. Then I washed my face, fixed my makeup and went back in and resheduled my trips. Then I went shopping. There's nothing like shopping to make me feel better. The thrift store is having a bag sale. Everything you can squeeze into a bag for a dollar. I spent $2.00 and got most of my summer warbrobe. I got a pair of levis in my regular size, when I got home and put them on, they were too big. That was an ego boost. WEdnesday and Thursday I stayed home most of the day and rested. I've been real tired lately.
Friday and Saturday I went on some housing trips. Actually saw some possibilites. They were big enough but location can be a problem. They have no place for the kids to play or ride their bikes.
My hubby is learning, no candy for Vday. Instead a $30 coin purse and bubble bath. He tires so hard. Of course, I feel asleep on the the sofa. So much for a romantic Valentines.
last night went to a housewarming party. Might have overdone it with the eating. But I did't eat all day so I should be ok calories wise. OVerall, this week I've done ok. I've manage to squeeze in some form of exercise everyday. I'm looking forward to the scale on Monday. Have a good weekend.
Renee:)

:) arfain, your life has been eventful since moving to italy.

Hello Arfain,

I've seen you over in Chum's challenges and journal so I thought I'd pop over and say, "hi"

Italy -- how interesting. Are you liking it there more? Hiking up Mt. Etna sounds like fun. And watching it erupt.

Take care!

Hi
Busy day. Went on 2 housing trips, looked at 6 apartments. Saw a couple of dives. Saw 1 real nice place. But it was too far away. Ate pretty good today. Had Subway for lunch and pasta for dinner. My exercise was house hunting. They all had stairs. Lots of walking.
I'm tired and feeling real bloated. Didn't bother getting on the scale this morning. My tom came and I know I am bloated. I could tell as soon as I got up this morning. I hate feeling this way.
Tomorrow is going to be another busy day. Going on another housing trip. Going to see a place that is suppose to be nice. I hope. I'm ready to move. I'm also going to the gym. Going to spend at least an hour there. A friend wants me to start going swimming with her a couple times a week. The base has 2 pools, one is heated and one isn't. They are both outside. I sure the heated one is nice. Its just when you get out thats bad. So I'm going to start that. Its something different to do.

Ciecie: thanks for stopping by. My life has changed alot since moving here.

Kilgo: sometimes I like it here and other times I hate it and am ready to go back to the states. Especially when I want to go shopping. There are no Walmarts.

have a good day.
Renee.:)

Hey ARf. Swimming, huh? That would be a great change of pace for you girl. And fun to work out with a friend a couple of times a week.

You should be patient about the house search. If you are in a rush you could end up in a worse situation that you have now.

Poor little TOM woman. I hate feeling all bloated. Especially when it isn't my fault. ha.

For awhile, you were writing in my journal more than me. Now, I am writing in your journal more than you! I found this amazing bit of news on the Onion's web site!

"Bacon Good For You, Reports Best Scientist Ever
ROCHESTER, MN—Bacon, long believed to contribute to heart disease and obesity, possesses significant health benefits, according to a study released Monday by Dr. Albert Gruber, the best scientist ever. "My research has found that three strips of crispy, mouthwatering bacon every morning can actually reduce cholesterol and help slow the aging process," the awesome Gruber said. "What's more, the bacon's positive effects are enhanced when combined with milk shakes and/or marijuana." In 1997, Gruber, a Mayo Clinic cardiologist, was awarded nine Nobel Prizes in Medicine for discovering that frequent oral sex with models cures cancer."

I suppose you would have to eat pancetta instead.

OMG. Where are you? Are you trapped at the gym? Did you find your OWN villa and made the DH and kids stay at the heat-free one? Are you cured of weight loss? Ack! What's going on in your life!!!!????

Hi
I know I've been slack this week. I've just been so busy. I fall asleep at night as soon as I sit down. It has rained almost everyday this week. I went on housing trips every day this week. So far most of the stuff I've seen I wouldn't let my dog live in. I meet a very new people, made some new friends, went to a rabbit wedding and had a job interview. Yep, an interview. It went good. Said I was the most qualified. I hate interviews. On the way there I thought I was going to throw up or cry. I happy to say I did neither. I should hear something this week as they want the new person to start the first week of March. I gained 2 lbs this week but because it was that tom I'm hoping next week it will be gone. Its going to be another week of busy. But I think I've come up with a workable plan so I don't get off track. We will see. Talk to you later.
Renee

Yes, Chumlette, I've posted to your journal more than mine lately. It because I read everyone elses then go to mine. By the time I get to mine, I'm out of time and have to get off the computer.:(

Hi
I’ve decided I’ve been going about this the wrong way. I’ve been concentrating on weight loss- with loss of inches as a sideline. I need to concentrate on getting in better physical shape. I took a good look at this and I really suck at it. Sure I exercise, but I can’t run a mile, I can walk it, but I want to be able to run with my kids and I can’t. I can’t do 10 regular pushups, I can do modified ones but not the real ones, nor can I do pull-ups. My upper body strength really bites. I think if I improve my physical shape everything else will fall into place. I still have to watch what I eat but I need to quit worrying about every little thing that goes into my mouth.

What caused all of this? Just watching people. I’ve got friends who are bigger than me, they acknowledge that they need to lose weight but they don’t let it rule their lives. They wear what they want without worrying that it will make them look fat. If they want to eat something, they don’t worry about the calories or fat grams. They don’t obsess that their spouses are going to leave them for something thinner or prettier. They are comfortable with themselves. They are confident in their abilities and their self worth. That’s what I want. Somewhere along the way I’ve lost all of that. I’ve let my fears and lack of self-confidence take over. It’s time to take it back. To do that I need to switch my focus from weight loss to fitness. When I’m physically active and fit, I feel better and am more confident in myself. Not to say, I won’t be watching my weight because I will. I’m just not going to let it rule me anymore. Weight loss is going to be the result of exercise and good eating. I’m setting some new goals that I would like to meet by Memorial Day. I believe that they re doable.

1. Be in better shape. I want to be able to run a mile in 10 minutes or less or at least be able to walk it in under 15 minutes.
2. Be stronger. I want to be able to do 10 full body push-ups.
3. Be more flexible. Need I say a lot? I’m not getting any younger. The older I get the stiffer my body gets.
4. Lose weight. I would like to be at 125 lbs by Memorial Day. That is less than 2 lbs a week.

Memorial Day is 92 days away – 13 weeks and 1 day. I think if I work hard toward my goals that I can meet them.

Have a good weekend
Renee
:coach:

Good luck with your new goals! I like your fitness goals. I've been reading a little by some folks who aren't food-obsessed and still lose weight. There is definitely a lot of merit in it. I wish I could do that. Perhaps I shall try it for the month of March. See how I do if I don't weigh for a whole month. I wonder if I can do it. You know, do what you said. Not worry about food and weight, just focus on fitness. Hmmm. I'll give it some thought. I've got a week to decide. Let me know how it is working for you. Will you still watch what you are eating in terms of trying to get in more veggies and fruit and such? Just curious how you plan to go about it. You're my hero for trying this.

:wave: Hi Renee!

Well I like the sound of your plan. When I was working out I remember thinking that I felt better ant 180 and working out then at 160 and not working out. Muscle burns fat! So why the hell havn't I got my rear in gear? Good question! I must go and ponder.... :D

Hi

Did great with the exercise and food yesterday. Even got my water in. I did 55 minutes of weight training. Ate within a calorie range.
Went to housing yesterday, there isn't anything available. Blah.
I am proud of myself. Yesterday, I got depressed for a while but instead of eating, I exercised. By the time I finished I had a different outlook. Felt much better.

Chumlette, I'm trying to eat more fruit and veggies. I have always enjoyed them. You are going to do fine, no matter what you decide. You are just going through a dry spell right now. Spring is almost here and you will snap out of the blues.

Maximum, I always feel better when I exercise. I just forget it sometimes.

Have a good day. Renee:D

Well its pouring rain here....

Well you and I both did good yesterday. Hopefully it will stick.

Did you ever apply for jobs on-line? I wonder if it is succesful or not I have sent 5 resumes in. But wonder if I should contact the company directly. How much longer do you have to live there?

Good for you for choosing exercise when you were blah. That is always a good prescription for me too. It seems like starting and then the first 5-10 minutes are the worst, then I start feeling better. I am really proud of you for making a great choice!

Hope an apartment comes up soon!

Hi
Busy, busy day. My daughter is still sick. Her temperature shot up this afternoon. Went on a housing trip. It was depressing. Got another one tomorrow morning.

I also have a second interview tomorrow afternoon. Hopefully, I'll get some good news. I don't know.

Don't remember what I ate today besides a hot dog and mac and cheese for dinner. Did alot of walking today. Didn't drive anywhere, just parked the car and walked.

I'm going to bed. I want to be fresh for my interview tomorrow. I meant refreshed. Where is my head.

Chumlette, yes, I am flossing.
:D

have a good day.
Renee

Hi
I went on my interview, came out of it feeling like I had been ran over. Didn't think I had a chance in hell. Got home and there was 2 messages, one was the hiring office saying they would see me Monday. the other was HRO. Called HRO, they told me the job was mine and I was to report to them on Monday for inprocessing. I guess that means more paperwork and I get an id. I'm excited and scared at the same time. What if I mess up and do a lousy job? What if everyone just hates me? I've about made myself sick thinking about it.

I guess I'll go through my clothes and decide what is appropriate wear for the office. It is a pretty conservative office. No loud clothing. Will check in later.
Renee:)

Wahoo! Way to go girlfriend! You'll do just fine. I know it. Everyone hates the first few days in a new job. Then you'll settle in great. I am so delighted for you! Yippee!

:hop: :hop: :hop: :hop: :hop:

(So, does this mean I need to move to Italy to get a job??? LOL)

RENEE :cheers: AH.. I am so HAPPY FOR YOU!!!!

Oh thats just great......

How is your daughter feeling? I hope she gets better soon. What will you wear for your first day?

Congratulations on the new job, Renee! :cheer: :jn How exciting!

Hi
Thanks for the congrats. Now that I've gotten through the excitement and terror of a new job, I can start planning. I was worried that I wouldn't have time to exercise but things are starting to fall into place. the daycare called and they have a spot for my son. That means I don't have to rush to the school to pick him up after work. I can go to the gym. Although I think 1 or 2 days a week I'm going to walk/run on the track at the school. I can do that for as long as I like. At the gym I'm limited to 30 minutes a machine.

Since I'm working, I won't be snacking. I'll be working through lunch so I will carry something healthy to snack on. But there will not be any mindless snacking.

My daughter is still sick. It is raining and cold again. I'm so ready for Spring.

Well, I'm off to clean house and turn my attic into an exercise space. have a good day. Renee:)

Poor little sick one. I hope she is feeling better after the weekend resting. You sound upbeat about everything. That's wonderful. Do you like running on a track? I don't know if I would or not. Part of me would like it a lot b/c it is easy to figure out how far I've made it. But I also think part of me would be bored just running around in circles. I remember when I used to jog and walk around the little track at my old gym in DC and every Saturday morning, this blind man would come in a run (and he ran fast), holding onto the inside railing. His assistant tied a bandanna to the rail, so he would know how many times he'd run around the track. He always seemed so happy to be running. Somehow that's always stuck with me.

Hi
Ok day, didn't eat much, not hungry. Drank alot of water. Not much exercise. Just didn't feel like it. I'm tired. I would take my vitamins but i can't remember where they are. The sun came out today and it was great. Hung out outside for a while. Went to a flea market today. It was interesting. Got me a fan for the house for $5. It is a 220volt so I can use it without a transformer. My hubby got a new briefcase for $30 never been used. Went grocery shopping and got lots of food. Mostly stuff quick and easy to cook plus bottled water, fruit, veggies and raisins.

chumlette, I don't mind the track, its a little boring so I take music with me and kinda zone out.

Daughter is feeling better still not 100%. She went to sleep at 7:00 which is very unusual.

I'll probably go to bed early also.

Have a good day. REnee:D

Good morning,

Its a beautiful day. After I get off the computer I'm going to go up and do some ab work and stretching. Later today I'm going bowling. Should be fun. I haven't bowled in years. I had a huge breakfast so I will probably eat light for rest of the day. Its been 2 hours and I'm still full. Hubby cooked, eggs, grits, bacon and toast.

I'm going to spend sometime outside today. Its suppose to be in the 60s. I need the sun and fresh air. Have a good day.REnee:)

Hi
I didn't get any exercise in. Didn't make it bowling. My daughter just was up to going. She is feeling better today. Good thing since I started my job. It went well for the first day. Its going to be different from anything I've ever done. For one thing I've never worked for the military before. I've always been around it but worked with it. It is different. I plan to get some exercise in before I go to bed. It rained again today. Why am I not surprised. Went on a housing trip after work. Saw a beautiful place but the price was outrageous. Almost 2 of my mortgages. But it had a yard and everything. We are going to think about it.

Have a good day.
Renee:D

Happy first day at work! I'll bet it was just nice having somewhere to go where you were there as you, not as mom or wife. Yay!

Did you change your quote? I really like it. Maybe I just never noticed before. It really fits in with how I'm trying to view my attitudes towards situations. Though, I think Geo. W. is BAD.

So, if we go to war, is your DH on the front lines? God, I'd be a nervous wreck.

I'm glad your daughter is getting a little better.

Why do you think you haven't exercised in the past couple of days? Are you tired? Low on iron or something? You know how exhausted I get when I'm low on iron. You should try to find those vitamins! Maybe next time, you can hide them under the cookies. hahahaha

Have a nice sleep my friend!

Hi
My internet connection went bye bye for a couple of days. Work is going good. No exercise besides walking everywhere. Been going on housing trips after work. It is wearing me down. Haven't had time to eat and that is not helping.

Chumlette: Yes, I did change my quote. It seem to fit. I can't change what I've done in the past, it is done and over with. But I can control now. What I eat, my exercise. I haven't exercised because I haven't had time. I get off work and rush to get to the other base so I can go on housing trips. Yesterday I went on one that lasted 3 hours. I got back j