Saturday, January 1st, 2005

Good Morning/Afternoon AND HAPPY NEW YEAR .... :balloons:

Last night while we were watching dvd's my daughters called to wish us a Happy New Year ... Jessica called early in the evening because she and Ben were going to make the circuit (that's what we used to call it when making the rounds at New Year's eve) and lol I heard Ben yell out .. I told her to enjoy herself and .....

Laurie and Robert called while they were out at their favorite restaurant ... they were going to Robert's sister's home to see in the New Year ...

and around 10 p.m. ... Barrie called to wish us a Happy New Year .. lol and she got her guests to yell out HAPPY NEW YEAR .. lol made me feel like a celebrity ....

Both Les and I were able to ring out the old and bring in the New Year ... lol Les was feeling no pain as he drank for the both of us .... and we watched the Jay Leno Tonight Show to ring in the New Year ....... and his monologue was very funny (as usual) especially certain pictures depicting Bin Laden and Hussein.... we both just laughed so hard ....

We went to bed around 1 a.m., while Les had no trouble falling asleep I WAS WIDE AWAKE .... I don't know what time I finally fell asleep .... BUT I DID ....

After the torrents of rain we received yesterday .... would you believe the sun was streaming thru our levelors and I leaned over to see what time it was and it was 7:30 a.m. ... so I hurriedly turned on the television (to Channel 5) and watched the pre-Rose Parade program ..... and we lay in bed watching the Rose Parade until 9 a.m. ....

Watching this morning's parade reminded me of the times when my girls were young and they would climb into bed with Les and I and we would watch the Rose Parade ... I have had the opportunity of seeing the Rose Parade three times .... lol the one time I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER was when I was in college and from a pre-party WE went to Pasadena and slept on the sidewalk (lol who am I kidding we didn't sleep at all) and we had sidewalk seats ..... for all the sights and SMELLS ....

I got on the scale this morning .... and I will be posting my new stats ... I weighed 183 .... I have set my goal at 150 ... and I am DETERMINED :mus: THAT THIS WILL BE THE END OF MY WEIGHT LOSS JOURNEY .... AND THE START OF A NEW BEGINNING .....

My blood sugar this morning was 128 .... which is higher than the norm ... but that's okay ....

MY GOALS FOR 2005

TO consistently make every effort to lose weight during the year.
TO actively post in the various forums
TO actively participate in the various chats here at Diettalk
TO increase my activity (exercise) time
TO ENJOY AND CELEBRATE EACH DAY OF MY LIFE

BREAKFAST MENU:

1/4 cup All Natural Eggwhite -- 0 Points
1 cup Trader Joes Nonfat Milk -- 2 Points
1 serving Zen Bakery Blueberry Muffin Cake -- 1 Point
2 cups brewed coffee -- 0 Points
2 tablespoons Nestle CoffeeMate FF French Vanilla Cream -- 2 Points
TOTAL BREAKFAST POINTS: 5 Points
WATER INTAKE: 36 ounces

We ate a very late breakfast (for us) so today will be a very haphazard and somewhat unplanned eating day ....

We'll just be DOING ABSOLUTELY NOTHING TODAY .... lol in fact Les has decided (after asking me do you think anyone is going to come over this morning) to spend most of the day in his robe and pajamas ... while I lol AM DRESSED ... just to be on the safe side if we do have drop by visitors .... lol he can run faster to the bedroom ...

We'll be watching the Rose Bowl game this afternoon .... and keeping our fingers crossed .... :peace: FOR ONE TEAM IN PARTICULAR ... lol but I won't say until afterwards ... don't want to jinx ...

As I am looking out the window of our computer room ... although the sun is shining ... I can see dark gray clouds forming .... so I am going to assume the weatherperson is speaking the truth ... WE'RE IN FOR MORE RAIN .....

Well I am going to close this journal entry ..... I need to go and change my stats .... and add to my signature line ....

I AM WISHING ONE AND ALL who visit this Journal A VERY HAPPY AND HEALTHY NEW YEAR .... a loving and tremendous :hug: to each and every one of you ....

I am as always, Monica :sweety:

Happy New Years Monica :cheers:

I rang in the new years alone. :-& It was no fun at all. I came back from spending Christmas with my mother sick. My family called me this morning to wish me a happy new year.

I did watch Jay Leno doing the countdown from Time Square too.


I wish you a year of health and happiness for you and your family.

Always, Ria

signing up for your new journal, heh i went to bed at my usual 9:30 LOL life of the that i am LOL

Hi Monica! You moved. :) Enjoy your new digs. You can make you goals.. I believe in you!

Corinna

Hi, Monica. Thanks for visiting my journal. Always nice to see a familiar name on the guest register.

You and I both have good plans for 2005. May we both achieve our goals.

Sunday, January 2nd, 2005

Good Afternoon,

Because the weatherperson reported in yesterday's evening news we would be having heavy to moderate rain off and on during the entire week .... I DECIDED I needed to stock up on several items .... primarily because I don't like to go driving in the rain .... don't mind walking but ABSOLUTELY abhor driving in the drain

Les and I woke up at 7:30 a.m. and we both had a very quick breakfast .. I didn't wash the breakfast dishes, or make our bed ... I didn't even read the Sunday newspaper .... but I did manage to get dressed very quickly ... lol I even told Les HE DIDN'T HAVE to shave .... and I hurriedly put on my make-up so that I wouldn't go out of the house looking like death warmed over ...

Les and I went and did a major grocery shopping at Trader Joes and purchased a few items at Ralph's .... I just had to make sure we didn't need anything for the week .... by the time we were thru shopping and got home it was 11:30 a.m. ---

I put everything in the crosstop freezer and I noticed that 2 of the 3 packages of salmon fillet that I had purchased at Trader Joes was missing ... :tomato: and I called them (thanks for suggesting it Jessica -- she called to see how we were doing) and they told me to keep the receipt and to bring it in with me the next time and they would give me a credit ... WHICH IS REALLY VERY NICE ..... but we'll be eating more chicken this week than fish .. UNFORTUNATELY ....

The groceries have been put away; both the breakfast and lunch dishes are now washed .... the bed has been made and as soon as I am thru posting in my Journal I will go and read today's newspaper ....

BREAKFAST MENU:

2 servings Van's Gourmet Multi-Grain Waffles -- 3 Points
1 1/2 tablespoons Smart Balance Margarine -- 1 Point
2 tablespoons Smuckers SF Blackberry Jam -- 0 Points
1 cup Trader Joes Nonfat Milk -- 2 Points
1 cup (mug) brewed coffee -- 0 Points
1 tablespoon Nestle CoffeeMate FF French Vanilla Cream -- 1 Point
TOTAL BREAKFAST POINTS: 7 Points
WATER INTAKE: 24 ounces

LUNCH MENU:

2 slices Milton's Whole Grain Whole Wheat Bread -- 3 Points
2 slices Kraft 2% Sharp Cheddar Cheese -- 2 Points
5 oz. Trader Joes Organic Peeled Baby Carrots -- 0 Points
1 serving Yoplait Light Very Cherry Yogurt -- 2 Points
1 serving (medium) Gala Apple (quartered) -- 1 Point
TOTAL LUNCH POINTS: 8 Points
WATER INTAKE: 36 ounces

At both Trader Joes and Ralph's I purchased several cans of soup (Healthy Choice Soups at Ralphs was a good purchase I think .. 3 for $4.00)....

As much as I do love salads (especially when you put everything but the kitchen sink in it) ... and I do :sweety: ..... somehow in cold and rainy weather a nice hot bowl of soup is perfect ....

I also purchased at Ralph's ... Swanson's FF Vegetable Broth ... which I've never seen before ... and I notice that several of my WW soup recipes use that as a base ... also I want to boil the Kraft Minute Brown Rice and see how that tastes .. lol gotta try new things ..

PLANNED DINNER MENU:

1 1/2 cups Trader Joes Barley with Vegetable Soup -- 3 Points
1 serving grilled, boneless and skinless Chicken Breast -- 3 Points
2 cups steamed zucchini -- 0 Points
1 (ear) White Corn on the Cob -- 1 Point
TOTAL DINNER POINTS: 7 Points
WATER INTAKE: 12 ounces

Total Fat (50 grams): 17 grams
Saturated Fat (15 grams): 5 grams
Carbohydrates (180 - 220 grams): 208 grams
Cholesterol (300 milligrams): -28 milligrams
Sodium (500 - 2,400 milligrams): 2,291 milligrams
Dietary Fiber (25 - 40 grams): 37 grams
Protein (50- 90 grams): 78 grams
TOTAL WEIGHT WATCHER POINTS (24 Points /35 Bonus Points): 22 Points
TOTAL WATER INTAKE (88 ounces): 72 ounces

I am still having swollen feet and ankles .... I don't know if it's because of too much sodium or perhaps the Avandia (the diabetes med) is creating the problem ..... I am deliberately cutting back on my water intake .... and what I might start doing is just drinking 64 ounces daily .... see if that does it ... otherwise I am going to have to keep my legs elevated more often ...

Although I usually like to get my exercise routine done in the morning ... I think I will go and do it now ... will try for the 30 minutes .... and I need to do my Wall Push Offs ... and then I can relax for approx an hour and go and make dinner ...

:coach: IF ANYONE IS INTERESTED I WILL BE STARTING THE "I CAN" CHAT ON THURSDAY, JANUARY 6, 2005 AT 9:30 P.M. in the Daily Chat Room ... it is open to everyone ..

Well I'm off to put my shoes and socks back on and get to exercising ... make it a great day and have and make it a wonderful first week of the new year. I am as always, Monica :hug:

Hi Monica :wave:

Hey tell Les that I am wearing the Pj's today lol I am still not dressed and have NO plans to get dressed lol

GREAT new journal my friend :)

Beth :peace:

Monica, Wishing you all the best this year, on the last leg of your fantastic journey!!! Hugs, AJ

Monica:


I LOVE the name of your new journal. I believe this will be the year that your achieve your ultimate goal and then yipeeeeeeee you will be posting with the maintainers all the time. How I so look forward to welcoming you there and drawing on your knowledge and wisdom(not that I don't already:) )
I wish we had a Traders Joe store here as it sounds like it has awesome products. Have a very Happy New Year.

Judy2 :mus:

Hi Monica,
Looks like you had a wonderful weekend. I did too. Just hubby and I most of the weekend.....and yes, I spent most of today in my PJ's too!
Hope 2005 is great for you and Les. You deserve all the happiness and love your Hearts can hold.


Love ya,


Vickie:pass:

Wow Monica,

You actually left Less out of the house without shaving first? I bet he thought he'd died and gone to heaven, or close to it eh? hahahaha

And to think you also left the house with dirty dishes cluttering up your kitchen yet too. My oh my woman, you are just falling apart! I didn't realize that rain did that to people, but I'll now be more aware. You know, just in case I should start behaving in such a manor..........hahaha

Anyway, it looks like you and I are going to have one special year in 2005. Both of us are going to reach goal this year. You might get there before I do, but don't you worry lady, bringing up the rear doesn't bother me as long as I get in under the wire!!

Now, do you think we should begin how we are going to celebrate this achievement or what?

I do!

Hello Monica!
Wishing you a great day! :hug:

Hi Monica,

I am glad you had a nice holiday. David and I were with friends, camping. We have done this for years. The daughters and families were on a cruise so haven't talked to them yet this year.

I am sure you will reach your ultimate goal this year. You have been so faithful to your diet.

Carol

Monday, January 3rd, 2005

Good Afternoon,

It has been somewhat of a frantic morning .... I am once again having phone difficulties ... apparently I am able to call out on the phone BUT I AM NOT ABLE TO RECEIVE calls ...

It has stopped raining for awhile ... and I have asked Les to go to the bank and get our grocery money and allowances .... hopefully he won't be caught in the rain on his way back home ....

I am finding it difficult to get interested in my activity schedule because of the day ... I just want to DO ABSOLUTELY NOTHING ... and that isn't good I know .. lol I should have made an activity schedule ALLOWING FOR RAINY DAYS ...

I have done my exercising for the day .... of that I am very proud ... :
Exercise Bicycle: 30 minutes
Wall Push Offs -- 25

... but as I am sitting here looking around I DO SEE THINGS that I can do so after I am thru with this Journal entry ... I will go and pick up in the rooms ... so I will DO SOME STRAIGHTENING TODAY ....

BREAKFAST MENU:

1 serving McCann's Apple & Cinnamon Oatmeal -- 2 Points
Mushroom Omlette: 1/4 cup All Natural Eggwhite - Mushrooms -- 0 Points
1 serving Zen Bakery Blueberry Muffin cake -- 1 Point
1 cup Trader Joes Nonfat Milk -- 2 Points
1 cup brewed coffee -- 0 Points
1 tablespoon Nestle CoffeeMate FF French Vanilla Cream -- 1 Point
TOTAL BREAKFAST POINTS: 6 Points
WATER INTAKE: 32 ounces

LUNCH MENU:

2 slices Milton's Whole Grain Whole Wheat Bread -- 3 Points
French's Classic Mustard -- 0 Points
1 slice Jarlsberg Light Swiss Cheese -- 1 Point
4 slices Healthy Choice FF Oven Roasted Turkey Breast -- 1 Point
5 oz. Trader Joes Organic Peeled Baby Carrots -- 0 Points
6 large radishes -- 0 Points
1 serving Yoplait Light Very Cherry Yogurt -- 2 Points
1 medium Red Delicious Apple -- 2 Points
TOTAL LUNCH POINTS: 9 Points
WATER INTAKE: 32 ounces

I don't know if it has anything to do with it ... but my feet and ankles are quite swollen ... and I have decided to cut back on my water intake during this week ... to 80 ounces and gradually lessen it to 64 ounces ....

I will call the doctor later today and see if I can schedule an earlier appointment ... in the meantime as I sit here I have elevated both legs ... and then I will go and get out of these shoes and ELEVATE MY TOOTSIES ...

DINNER MENU:

Garden Salad:
Trader Joes Romaine Salad Mix For 2 -- 0 Points
celery, green onion, radishes, Persian Cucumber, Pearl tomatoes -- 0 Point
2 tablespoon Kraft FF Italian Caesar Salad Dressing -- 2 Points
1 medium Russet Baked Potato -- 2 Points
1 cup Trader Joes Chicken Chili -- 3 Points
6 steamed Brussel Sprouts -- 0 Points
TOTAL DINNER POINTS: 9 Points
WATER INTAKE: 16 ounces

Total Fat (50 grams): 15 grams
Saturated Fat (15 grams): 4 grams
Carbohydrates (180 - 220 grams): 259 grams :(
Cholesterol (300 milligrams): 69 milligrams
Sodium (500 - 2,400 milligrams): 2,406 milligrams .... NOT GOOD-NOT TOO BAD
Dietary Fiber (25 - 40 grams): 52 grams :jn
Protein (50 - 90 grams): 76 grams
WEIGHT WATCHER POINTS (24 Points): 24 Points
WATER INTAKE (64 - 80 ounces): 80 ounces

Les has just come home ... lol apparently everyone else had the same idea I did ... plus it is the 3rd of the month and I think quite a few get their Social Security checks ...

LOL I told Les to give me the money and that I WOULD CHARGE HIM a surcharge for counting out the money ... lol needless to say :caf: HE DIDN'T GO FOR IT .... lol I thought it was perfectly reasonable statement .....

A couple of bills have to be paid ..... so I am off to write checks ... A loving and tremendous :hug: to each and every one of you who reads this Journal entry ...

I hope I see some of you this evening in the chat room ... I am finding once again that BY BEING IN THE CHAT ROOM it serves several purposes .. catching up with friends, being social ... and INSURING MY HANDS ARE BUSY and I don't need to feed my face ...

I am as always, Monica :ghug:

You're just so organized..... I envy that. I wanted to start posting again on January 1st, but didn't come in here. So January 3rd it is for me! lol

Your goals sound great and I'm doing the same..... I just haven't finished making my list. I'm trying to be realistic and not set them too high, but I need to challenge myself just the same.

I especially like your last goal...... that's awesome and really made me smile. It gave me a warm feeling and I'm so looking forward to this year! Let's make it a special one indeed!!

Take care and talk to you soon!! Thanks for all you do, Monica!

Yes, indeedy. This year will be a special year for us all.

Keep smiling -

MONICA – have you had a chance to figure out what was wrong with your phone? I’d be interesting to know what the repair department from the phone company had to say about it.

Thank goodness we finally got a break in the rain. Today I was driving to the library and it just barely had started to sprinkle. Only a few drops and then it was down. I just hope that I fall asleep tonight before the rain, starts again. Well that is if it’s going to rain tonight.

How are you feet and ankles doing now? Hopefully you’ll find some answers when you go the doctor as to what is causing this.

My grandma gets social security checks and it usually comes the first Monday during the month. Unless a holiday is on that day, then I believe it comes the Saturday before. My grandma has direct deposit, so I’m not sure how it works if the check is mailed out.

Monica I know what you mean about being in the chat room. Just chatting with everybody really helps to inspire me. If I get my Netscape CD in the mail this week I’ll be able to connect to the internet and join the chat. Tongith I’m using the computer out in the garage and my brother will be home on Thursday night.
:rose: Katherine

Tuesday, January 4th, 2005

Good Morning/Afternoon,

I am very pleased to announce that I am now 182 ... I LOST ONE GLORIOUS POUND ... I just had to get on the scale ... lol it was calling me and I am PROUD of having lost that pound ... it means that I am following thru on my goals ...

This morning even though it is a very gray and gloomy doomy day I DECIDED THAT BY BEING LAZY ... I wasn't helping myself ... lol although I have to say it was SORTA different ... but UNFORTUNATELY it means I have to do catch-up activity today ..

I got on the exercise bicycle and I placed it on Resistance Band #2 ... I did it for 25 minutes and I think that is PRETTY DARN GOOD .. my goal during the next six weeks is to place it on Resistance Band #3 ... and to raise the band every six weeks ... I notice that the speed range is between 67 - 70 RPM ..

In a bit I will go and do my Wall Push Offs -- after I have hung up the laundry ....

BREAKFAST MENU:
Mushroom Omelette (1/4 cup All Natural Eggwhite, Mushrooms) --0 Points
Kashi Heart To Heart Raisin Spice Oatmeal -- 2 Points
1 cup Trader Joes Nonfat Milk -- 2 Points
1 serving Zen Bakery Blueberry Muffin cake -- 1 Point
1 cup brewed coffee -- 0 Points
1 tablespoon Nestle CoffeeMate FF French Vanilla Cream -- 1 Point
TOTAL BREAKFAST POINTS: 6 Points
WATER INTAKE: 32 ounces

I will be back need to check to see if the washing machine has gone thru its cycles .... 10:40 a.m -- am back it is almost thru ...

TUESDAY'S PLANNED ACTIVITIES
Exercise Bicycle: 25 Minutes .. Resistance Band #2
Laundry: Clothes
Bathroom: Clean Sinks and Toilets (bedroom, hall and den)
Dust: Living Room, Dining Room, Family Room
Vacuum: Living Room, Dining Room, Family Room and hallway
Wall Push Offs -- 25 to 30
Diettalk: Post in General Diet Forum
Diettalk: WW/Nutrition Chat

will be back am going to check washer again and hang up the clothes .....
11:00 a.m. -- am back ...

PLANNED LUNCH MENU:
1 cup Campbells Chunky Smoked Chicken w/Corn Chowder -- 4 Points *
5 oz. Trader Joes Organic Peeled Baby Carrots -- 0 Points
1 serving Yoplait Boston Creme Pie Yogurt -- 2 Points
1 serving Navel Orange -- 1 Point
TOTAL LUNCH POINTS: 7 Points
WATER INTAKE: 32 ounces

* I had to change the Points because I GUESSTIMATED incorrectly instead of 3 Points it is 4 Points

PLANNED DINNER MENU:
2 cups Trader Joes Stir Fry Vegetables -- 0 Points
3 oz. serving Trader Joes (frozen) Grilled Chicken Strips -- 3 Points
1 cup steamed green beans -- 0 Points
1/2 cup Trader Joes Organic Brown Rice -- 3 Points
1 medium Red Delicious apple (quartered) -- 1 Point

TOTAL DINNER POINTS: 7 Points
WATER INTAKE: 16 ounces
Total Fat (50 grams): 15 grams
Saturated Fat (15 grams): 2 grams
Carbohydrates (180 - 220 grams): 220 grams
Cholesterol (300 milligrams): -58 milligrams
Sodium (500 - 2,400 milligrams): 1,990 milligrams
Dietary Fiber (25 - 40 grams): 44 grams
Protein (50 - 90 grams): 69 grams
TOTAL WEIGHT WATCHER POINTS (24 Points): 20 Points
TOTAL WATER INTAKE (64 - 80 ounces): 80 ounces

IN RESPONSE:

JUDY2: Hello .... thank you for your supportive message .... I can hardly wait to join you and the others over at the Maintenance Forum ... I have been on this journey for almost 5 years (March 2000) ... being real (as Dr. Phil says) I have to say I HAVEN'T BEEN TOTALLY FOCUSED .... I have gone off track and I AM SO DETERMINED that this is the year I am GOING TO ATTAIN MY OBJECTIVE ... I have to admit I am more nervous about maintaining the loss .... but I know that in order to get there and realize I don't have anything to worry about (I hope ) ... I have to ACHIEVE THIS LAST PART OF MY WEIGHT LOSS JOURNEY ..... thanks again for visiting and make it a great day ....

VICKI: Hi there ..... thank you so much for your good wishes for the New Year .. we're going to ACHIEVE OUR GOALS ... I can understand your frustration regarding the diabetes ... believe me I totally understand ... but we have to realize LOSING WEIGHT IS imo AN IMPORTANT PART OF INSURING OUR BLOOD SUGARS ARE KEPT IN CHECK .... I am here for you whenever you need me ... and I sincerely hope that you will be able to participate in this Thursday's "I CAN" chat ... lol I am being totally selfish when I say I want a good group to help me get to my goals ... take care of yourself and make it a great day ...

SANDIE: LOL ... I actually hustled him out the door .. he imo lol PRIMPS MORE THAN I DO .... especially his hair ... (lol what he has left of it) has to look just right ... so strange because I deliberately have my hair cut short ... so I can wash and wear ... in my youth (lol not that I am nearing Methuselah) I would have my hair straightened and I loved long hair .... lol I even used to color my hair .... BUT NOW I don't have the patience to sit that long .... especially under the dryer ...

If you can (physically) participate in this Thursday evening chat I would love TO SEE YOU .. and congratulations on your successes ALREADY achieved ... take care of yourself and make it a great day ....

ARIA: Thank you for stopping by ... THIS IS GOING TO BE OUR YEAR .. I am really excited with the possibility of BY THE END OF THIS YEAR starting on MAINTENANCE . ... and as I said previously (to Judy) I am a little nervous ... I've been on this weight loss journey and I KNOW I CAN SUCCESSFULLY LOSE THE WEIGHT .... but keeping it off and everything is going to be A UNIQUE EXPERIENCE ... but my determination is stronger than my nervousness ... take care of yourself my friend and I will be reading with interest about your progress .. LET'S DO IT ....make it a great day ....

CAROL: Hello and HAPPY NEW YEAR ... this is going to be my year ... I AM GOING TO MAKE IT MY YEAR .... and then imo the work will really begin ... but IT WILL BE A NEW CHALLENGE AS WELL AS A MARVELOUS NEW EXPERIENCE ... take care and again thanks for your support and encouragement ... make it a great day ...

DJ: LOL .... organized to a fault and more so as I am getting older ... I never thought of it when I was younger and I don't know if I should thank (I worked for two attorneys) my bosses .... but it was under their tutelage that I learned that it is important (especially on the job) to be organized IN ORDER TO INCREASE WORK OUTPUT ... and being at home (which I am still not thrilled about) I have to maintain some type of order or there would be total chaos ... lol MUCH AS THERE WAS when my daughters were young ... I am really looking forward to this Thursday's chat ... and that each and every one of us here at DT achieves the goals we have set for ourselves .. I FIRMLY BELIEVE THAT "WE CAN AND WILL" SUCCEED ... take care and I am so glad to see you back and posting ... take care and make it a great day ....

JO: I TOTALLY AGREE WITH YOU 2005% .. and I thank you for your encouragement and your support ... take care and make it a great day ...

KATHERINE: According to the phone repair person ... the water on the phone lines is causing the problem .... lol on at least one of the phone lines ... LOL HE WAS HONEST ENOUGH TO ADMIT he doesn't know about the other phone line ....

My feet and ankles are still swollen ... and I am keeping both legs elevated as much as possible .... I will be seeing the doctor soon ... and hopefully will get some answers ...

Les gets his Social Security on the 3rd of each month .. and I don't care when I get it .. lol I just want to get it ..... I am keeping my fingers crossed :peace: that you will be able to get an ISP as well as being able to participate in this Thursday evening's chat ... BUT IF NOT ... there will ALWAYS BE A PLACE FOR YOU ... I hope you know that .. take care Katherine and make it a great day ....

LINDA: Thank you for stopping by .. now tell me how you are doing ... I haven't seen any posts in your Journal ... HANG IN THERE my dear young friend ... YOU'RE GOING TO MAKE EACH MONTH COUNT .. just as the rest of us ... I am here for you .. YOU KNOW THAT DON'T YOU? ... take care and make it a great day .. LOVE YOU LOTS ....

Well it is a little after 11:30 a.m. ... and I need to go and feed my face ... a loving and tremendous :hug: to each and every one of you who reads this Journal entry .... make it a great day ... AND KNOW THAT EACH AND EVERY ONE OF US HAS THE POWER AND ABILITY TO ACHIEVE THE GOALS WE HAVE SET FOR OURSELVES ...

I am as always, Monica

Hi Monica: Just dropping in to say hello in your new journal...no wonder I have not received any notifications of posts in your journal...it is a new journal :laugh: and i want to congratulate you on your 1 lb loss.. :cheer: I know you will lose much more...The Holidays are tough and almost impossible to get through without dipping into something tasty...at least for me but i will not give up...They are over..and I will move forwards...reminds me I need to update my stats ...they are a bit higher than 219..more like 225..but I am working on it....

We are much alike in many ways...I cannot stand bills any all my Holiday bills are paid except one which has to come in...I think about $80 ...the rest got paid on Dec 31...I like to start the year right :laugh: and with no renovations this year coming up..well I just may get to bank a bit more than I have in the past months....
Tomorrow is blood test morning for Ross & I...at 8:25...We should be back home at 9. yes I agree with you I will need to get some help..I am already starting to feel dragged down....of course it could be the extra 6 lbs :laugh: He has never had any social life and I guess that is the big difference between him and I....He just listens to one radio station and it is talk all day long....today I told him to get back to his normal routine (which is not much) and he went out to the mall for about an hour or so and went and had a hair cut....He waits for lunch to get served to him..before...he would get his lunch...but now just likes to be served...then 4 hours later or so it is supper...then the mail comes and I have to help him to read his bills bank statement etc...I did not get away last fall alone..and I know this year I will do it and get someone to come in.

My sugar is not so hot in the morning...in the 200 so I need to really get serious with myself here...I wonder if pain can make it higher...I have such a sore back (arthritis) not helped when I chopped ice yesterday for about 3/4 hour...and I take glucosomine supplements which may raise blood sugar levels...

I am not sure I can participate in the chat Monica...I am going to tell you honestly for me it is too late...It is like 9:30 here and that time...most nights Ross is in bed or we watch the news together...kind of like a winding down time for me...I would really like to see a chat around 6:30 EST...It is just after supper is over and dishes done...however I cannot expect anyone or everyone to match my schedule nor do I..so if I make it I make it but most nights the computer is off at 9:30...Sorry about that..Your chats have always been wondeful...I have thoroughly enjoyed them and learned from them...I wish you much success with this one....

Well I better go and get the dishwasher started I think it is full finally..We only do a load every two or three days but I rince evey day...

Love you lots :hug:
Louise

Hi Monica, I saw your new journal and just had to stop in and say hi,:wave: .I hope you New Year is great.

Have a great evening.:)

LOUISE: I wanted to respond to your remark about your blood sugar being high because of pain ... TO MY KNOWLEDGE THE ANSWER IS A DECIDED YES .... blood sugars can become elevated for several reasons NOT ALL DOING WITH FOOD .....

LOL I wish I could host a chat at 3:30 p.m... (it would be 6:30 p.m your time) but I am usually getting our dinner prepared .... but I have a thought if you check out the General Diet Forum you can read articles regarding information for the "I CAN CHAT" .... and every month for this year there will be a group challenge (different each month) with the idea of making weight loss changes ....also each participant can make a personal challenge (for every week, or for the month) what they feel they need to fully concentrate on achieving their weight loss goals .......

AND IF YOU CAN MAKE IT THAT WILL BE SUPER .... you know that I am going to be interested in your progress whether you are able to or not ... take care my friend and I'm hoping that both you and Ross have POSITIVE TEST RESULTS..

Love you lots, make it a great evening .... :hug:

GRACE: Hello there .... I am so glad you stopped by and I can honestly say THAT MY MIND HAS BEEN MADE UP .... THAT THIS IS GOING TO BE MY YEAR TO ACHIEVE MY GOALS ...

I already know that there are definitely some things I WILL HAVE TO DO TO MAKE THIS GOAL A REALITY .... one thing for sure is to EXERCISE with greater frequency during the day ... and adding things to my exercise regimen ... BUT I AM PUMPED UP AND RARING to go ... take care Grace, and thanks again for stopping by ... make it a great evening .... :hug:

MONICA – :cheers: congratulations on the 1 pound loss. I’m so proud of you and how much you’ve inspired me.

How are those Resistance bands? Have you ever used dumbbells before? If so how would you compare the two. I’ve thought about getting some bands before but I’m not sure. Oh wait a minute you weren’t talking about bands for strength training, you meant on your bike. I guess I should of read a couple lines further before writing down what I had just wrote lol.

:flower: Katherine

Just wanted to drop by and wish you and your family a Happy New Year!, and thank you once again for all of your wonderful support. Sandi

Wednesday, January 5th, 2005

Good Morning/Afternoon,

This has to be a very quick Journal entry .. UNFORTUNATELY ...

It is a beautiful SUNSHINEY CALIFORNIA MORNING ... but they say that beginning tomorrow evening IT WILL BE RAINING AGAIN ... probably through the weekend ... so today Les and I have to go and DO SOME SHOPPING ...

I want to go to the Credit Union and make our car payment ....

Les is about to leave and go to Ralph's Pharmacy to pick up a couple of his prescriptions .... and mail a couple of bills ....

After the Credit Uniuon I will go to the Empire Center (specifically to Linen 'n Things) I have gift certificate plus a 20% off coupon and I want to purchase a new George Forman grill .... the one that the grills can be taken out and washed ...

Then we're off to Trader Joes ... I want to purchase milk and orange juice ... Les consumes the orange juice when taking his meds ... and I have him now consuming at least 3 (8 oz.) glasses of milk ... after hearing a program on the Today Show of how important it is as we become older to consume more milk ... (lol there I go learning again)

I will be back later to post my total Journal entry for the day ... a loving and tremendous :hug: to each and every one of you who reads this Journal
entry ... make it a glorious day.

I am as always, Monica :ghug:

Les and I just home .... considering we left the house at 9:45 a.m. ... we covered quite a few areas ...

I did go to Linen 'n Things to purchase the new George Foreman Grill (it has trays that can come out and be washed) BUT UNFORTUNATELY they still are out of them ... :c( .... what I can't understand is WHY ADVERTISE MERCHANDISE IF IT ISN'T AVAILABLE ... I am going to go online later today and see if I can use the gift certificate and the 20% off coupon for purchases made online ...

Laurie called just a few minutes ago .... and she and Neil are going to come over to see us .. I think this is her last week for Christmas vacation ... her school district allows for three weeks .... but then they end closer to the month of July ...

LOL I have to see if I have anything that Neil likes to eat .. I doubt it but maybe he will suffer with a grilled peanut butter sandwich .... on raisin bread ... when he stayed with us .. lol he was in :not: heaven because I made sure I had the things he liked and that Laurie usually doesn't get just for him .... lol IT PAYS TO BE A GRANDMA ...

I went to Trader Joes and I purchased not only the milk and orange juice but more fish .. thank goodness there is now room in the crosstop ... and on the way back to the house we stopped at Jon's Market so that Les could have his french rolls ...

Barrie and Jessica will be coming by this weekend ... hopefully not ... because I don't like the idea of them driving in the rain .... not so much because they are reckless .... I just worry .... BUT I can tell you (and Les) about how I worry ... THEY DON'T LIKE TO HEAR ME SAY THAT ....

We went to Hometown Buffet for lunch (it is in the Empire Center) and I am very proud of myself because I ATE PERFECTLY and I didn't even finish what I took ... :up:

I didn't put my breakfast menu in my previous post ..... so here is what I had for breakfast:

1 serving Kashi Heart to Heart Raisin & Spice Oatmeal -- 2 Points
1 cup Trader Joes Nonfat Milk -- 2 Points
1 serving Zen Bakery Blueberry Muffin cake -- 1 Point
1 cup brewed coffee -- 0 Points
1 tablespoon Nestle CoffeeMate FF French Vanilla Cream -- 1 Point

TOTAL BREAKFAST POINTS: 5 Points
WATER INTAKE: 32 ounces

I will put my lunch menu (what I ate at Hometown Buffet):
2 cups cucumber, tomato and green pepper salad -- 0 Points
1 cup sliced beets -- 0 Points
1 (fried with skin removed) Chicken Thigh Meat -- 3 Points
1 medium sized Baked Potato -- 3 Points
2 pats of butter -- 1 Point
1 cup chopped broccoli -- 0 Points
1 cup cooked carrots -- 1 Point
1 cup cooked corn -- 1 Point
TOTAL LUNCH POINTS: 9 Points
WATER INTAKE: 16 ounces (2 8 oz. glasses of Iced Tea)

Although I hadn't planned on going out for lunch ... for dinner I will more than likely have a bowl of Soup (Trader Joes Lentil and Vegetable Soup), an apple and one of the Yoplait Yogurts ...

OH I forgot to mention that I did make a purchase at Linen 'n Things .. I purchased the Tanita Scale (the one that Dr. Phil was talking about in his Weight Loss for 2005 show yesterday afternoon -- 01/04/05) ... surprisingly it was a few dollars less than the Weight Watcher's Scale ... but according to the saleclerk this was A FAR BETTER SCALE ... so I guess I did good ....

Well I want to go and get in some comfy clothes .... and I will definitely be back this evening to participate in one of the Open Chats ..

Make it a great evening .... and a loving and tremendous :hug: to each and every one of you who reads this Journal entry .... I am as always, Monica

Everyone has left .....

While Laurie and Neil were here, Jessica called and said she was in the area .... so she too stopped by ...

After the preliminary greetings UNFORTUNATELY there was no conversation between them ... so I did a lot of talking to the both of them ..... lol thank G-d I don't mind being the social butterfly of our family .... I am used to talking and talking and sometimes saying nothing .... oh how I wish I could make these children see how FOOLISH AND STUPID THIS BEHAVIOR IS .....

But I am finally at the point that I know WHATEVER OCCURS IS OF THEIR MAKING (certainly not mine) ... AND THEY WILL HAVE TO LIVE WITH THEIR CHOICES ...

Because I was still full from my lunch .... I did have a yogurt just to make sure I had something in my system .... I am going to go and listen to the Governor's State of the State address .... and then I am going to Nancy's (crazy2) open chat ....

Make it a great evening .... I am as always, Monica

WOOHOO on the weight loss, Monica! That's awesome! Keep up the great work!

Congratulations on the lost pound, Monica! :dn

Thursday, January 6th, 2005

Good Afternoon,

I have really been moving today trying to get the linens washed (they say it is going to rain AGAIN starting tonight and thru either Monday or Tuesday of next week) as well as doing the clothes laundry ..

I have finished EVERYTHING that I wanted to accomplish today .... :cheer: INCLUDING my exercise bicycle ... 25 minutes ....

Les just got back from Lowes with some new rose bushes ... hopefully they aren't RED .... right now we've got purple, white and pink roses in the front.... he's changing into work pants ... and in just a few minutes I will go out and make sure he plants them in a space that they will not look crowded ... lol in other words I AM GOING TO SUPERVISE ...

BREAKFAST MENU:

1 cup blueberries -- 1 Point
1 cup Kashi Organic Autumn Wheat Cereal -- 3 Points
1 cup Trader Joes Nonfat Milk -- 2 Points
1 serving Zen Bakery Blueberry Muffin cake -- 1 Point
1 cup brewed coffee -- 0 Points
1 tablespoon Nestle CoffeeMate FF French Vanilla Cream -- 1 Point
TOTAL BREAKFAST POINTS: 8 Points
WATER INTAKE: 32 ounces

LUNCH MENU:

2 servings La Tortilla Factory Whole Wheat Tortillas -- 1 Point
1 serving Jarlsberg Light Swiss Cheese -- 1 Point
4 slices Healthy Choice Oven Roasted Turkey Breast -- 1 Point
5 oz. Trader Joes Organic Peeled Baby Carrots -- 0 Points
6 large red radishes -- 0 Points
1 serving Yoplait Light Apricot Mango Yogurt -- 2 Points
TOTAL LUNCH POINTS: 5 Points
WATER INTAKE: 32 ounces

PLANNED DINNER MENU:

4 oz. Orange Chicken (chicken breast, Trader Joes Orange Juice, Smuckers Light Orange Marmalade) -- 3 Points
1 medium boiled Red Rose Potato -- 3 Points
2 cups steamed zucchini -- 0 Points
1 serving KozyShack SF FF Chocolate Pudding -- 2 Points
TOTAL DINNER POINTS: 8 Points
WATER INTAKE: 16 ounces

Total Fat (50 grams): 14 grams
Saturated Fat (15 grams): 2 grams
Carbohydrates (180 - 220 grams): 212 grams
Cholesterol (300 milligrams): 53 milligrams
Sodium (500 - 2,400 milligrams): 1,720 milligrams
Dietary Fiber (25 - 40 grams): 48 grams
Protein (50 - 90 grams): 69 grams
TOTAL WEIGHT WATCHER POINTS (24 Points): 21 Points
WATER INTAKE (64 - 80 ounces): 80 ounces


A very SPECIAL THANK YOU TO Katherine, Sandi, DJ and Aria for :cheer: CHEERING ME FORWARD .... it only makes me MORE DETERMINED that this year I WILL FIND JOURNEY'S END.

I will be back later to put in my nutritional values ... lol I have to go and supervise ... Make it a great day. A loving and tremendous :hug: to each and every one of you who reads this Journal entry ... I am as always, Monica

MONICA – wouldn’t consuming more milk products also include yogurt? Because I know that you eat a lot of yogurt too. I’m cooking salmon tonight. I don’t know it just sounded really good this morning. I’m so proud of for doing so well at Hometown Buffet. Buffets are the worse for me, especially the desert section. I know what your thinking “Katherine just because it’s their doesn’t mean you have to eat it’ and your right but one smell of those great deserts and I’m in heaven. Monica I’m sorry that I won’t be able to attend the chat tonight. I was hoping to have my ISP hooked up to my computer but I still haven’t received the CD.

:rose: Katherine

I am up .... lol and so is Les ....

The rain is coming down .... AND we can hear it as it beats against our windows ...

I want to go and get our breakfast ready .... but I will be back later to post in my Journal and to post in other Forums ...

I wanted to say that last night's "I CAN" chat was an overwhelming success :balloons: ... I was wonderfully surprised to SEE OLD FRIENDS and MEET AND MAKE SOME NEW FRIENDS ...

Each and every person HAD SUCH POSITIVE VIBES and made such REALISTIC GOALS (either for the week or for the month of January) THAT THERE IS NO DOUBT THAT 2005 WILL BE THE YEAR .... ...

I will be back later. A loving and tremendous :hug: to each and every one of you who reads this Journal entry .... I am as always, Monica

Friday, January 7th, 2005

Good Morning (again),

If I wasn't awake before I CERTAINLY AM AWAKE NOW .... we just had THUNDER .... and the house shook lol AND I JUMPED ... it felt like we were having an earthquake ....

I don't know about everyone else .... but I FEEL at more times than ever LIKE I AM ATTACHED (you notice I didn't say ATTRACTED) to the kitchen .... either I am cooking, cleaning up after our meals or doing laundry ... makes me wish that it wasn't so .... I felt the same way when my daughters were young .... well I will have to shake off the feeling OR IT WILL CREATE PROBLEMS ....

Last night's "I CAN" chat was very very successful .... and I don't have any doubts that by my participating in the various chats ... I WILL MAKE IT TO JOURNEYS END ... :dc .... I have to say just so you realize I am no different than any one else ... I GET DISCOURAGED ... I BECOME VERY FRUSTRATED (especially with the problems of high blood sugars and other conditions of my diabetes) ... AND THERE ARE TIMES THAT I AM NOT HAPPY WITH MY CHILDREN ....

It is so strange to realize that what one envisions as being IMPOSSIBLE (because that is how I felt when I started this journey) can be MADE POSSIBLE ... simply by MOVING FORWARD and only LOOKING BACK TO CORRECT MISTAKES .. that IN REALITY nothing is impossible ... AS LONG AS WE KEEP OUR FOCUS AND COMMITMENT ...

and the positive vibes that were shared at last night's chat ONLY INTENSIFIED my desire and MY BELIEF THAT THIS IS THE YEAR .... like you I TOO AM GOING TO MAKE THIS HAPPEN ....

I took my blood sugar this morning (earlier than usual) and was SHOCKED to see that it was below 100 (98 ) .... I am used to seeing this particular number in the afternoon but seldom if ever in the morning .... I was very hesitant to inject my usual 15 mg/dl insulin ... SO I DIDN'T ... I just injected 10 mg/dl insulin ... and I will check my blood sugar again before I have eaten my lunch .....

BREAKFAST MENU:

1 serving Kashi Heart To Heart Raisin & Spice Oatmeal -- 2 Points
1 cup Trader Joes Nonfat Milk -- 2 Points
1 serving Zen Bakery Blueberry Muffin cake -- 1 Point
2 cups brewed coffee -- 0 Points
1 1/2 tablespoons Nestle CoffeeMate FF French Vanilla Cream -- 1 Point
TOTAL BREAKFAST POINTS: 6 Points
WATER INTAKE: 32 ounces

ACTIVITIES:

Laundry: Clothes and Towels
:ex: Exercise Bicycle -- 25 minutes Wall Push Offs -- 30
Bathroom: Clean Sinks and Toilets (bedroom, hall)
Kitchen: Clean Stove (top) ... Clean Refrigerator (outside)
Bookkeeping: Post paid bills ... File bills ...
Coupons: Organize and Cut coupons
DIETTALK: Post in Forums

I just saw lightning .... looks like we're going to have thunder in a bit ... lol I hope I don't jump out of my chair ... I've got my glass of water right near my computer ... WHICH I HAD BETTER MOVE ....

I think I had better unwrap a piece of hard candy ... I feel like my blood sugar is dropping ..... it is an AWFUL FEELING ...

LUNCH MENU:

1 serving Trader Joes Minestrone Soup -- 3 Points
1 serving La Tortilla Factory Whole Wheat Tortilla -- 1 Point
3 slices Healthy Choice Oven Roasted Turkey Breast -- 1 Point
1 serving Orange -- 1 Point
TOTAL LUNCH POINTS: 6 Points
WATER INTAKE: 32 ounces

PLANNED DINNER MENU:

5 oz. serving Grilled Lamb Chop -- (guesstimate) 4 Points
1 cup serving Mock Mashed Potato (cauliflower, Smart Balance Margarine and Kraft Reduced Fat Parmesan Cheese, black pepper) -- 1 Point
2 cups steamed green beans -- 0 Points
1 serving KozyShack SF FF Chocolate Pudding -- 2 Points
TOTAL DINNER POINTS: 7 Points
WATER INTAKE: 8 ounces

Total Fat (50 grams): 22 grams
Saturated Fat (15 grams): 4 grams
Carbohydrates (180 - 220 grams): 171 grams
Cholesterol (300 milligrams): 92 milligrams
Sodium (500 - 2,400 milligrams): 2,879 milligrams YIKES :tomato:
Dietary Fiber (25 - 40 grams): 42 grams
Protein (50 - 90 grams): 92 grams NOT GOOD .... BUT NOT TOO BAD :(
TOTAL WEIGHT WATCHER POINTS (24 Points): -- 19 Points
WATER INTAKE (64 - 80 ounces):-- 72 ounces

I am going to close this entry now ... but I will be back later to add or subtract my points and nutrition values ...

A loving and tremendous :hug: to each and every one of you who reads this Journal entry .... MAKE IT A GREAT DAY. I am as always, Monica

LOL i can relate to the attached to the kitchen. As you know for most of our life i have been a stay at home Mom. I worked off and on while Bob was in his many yrs of school, but otherwise with his hours i was the one the kids depended upon. He was much better at playing with them when he was home than i was,. Anyway for the last five years, ( i have had two thers at home briefly during that time, ) it has only been Bob, myself and Scott, boy did i get spoiled, i almost completely shut down the upstairs(except for the loft area, tv computer tv games Scott plays etc) i always cook, but so easy for three after i was used to six. Now with Josh back home, i am trying to get used to an increase in everything LOL Not complaining, i am thrilled he is back in the States, but it is an adjustment, i didnt realize how easy i had it. Actually i think Bob and I are wondering, if we are ever goning to have an alone time LOL we may always have someone with us, we had ours so spread out in ages LOL I have been walking around 4 miles every morning and with the way i am going all day long i should shake a few pds. Glad to hear you sound so happy and healthy!

Hi Monica,

Thanks so much for your plateau-ending advice. I followed it this evening, and will over the next week- fingers crossed it works for me too!!

Have a great weekend :)

Anna

It has rained here now for like 10 days :(

Take it back to Calif Monica lol ;)

Just stopping by to say "hi" and see how you are my friend.......

Beth :peace:

PS: My daughter and un born grand daughter need on going prayers please.
more information is here (http://diettalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=45733)

hope the weather isnt causing difficulties for you

Monday, January 10th, 2005

Good Morning/Afternoon,

Talk about raining cats and dogs ..... THIS IS TOTALLY DEPRESSING ... they say by Wednesday we will finally get a break in this storm .... just thinking from December to today we've had FOUR DAYS when it DIDN'T RAIN ....

I feel like I need to build an ark in order to :cruise: get to go out ... I was supposed to go to the lab this morning for a blood test ... BUT NO WAY was I going out in this storm ... I have an appointment next Monday (because of the swelling in my ankles -- WHICH THANKFULLY HAS LESSENED) to see my physician .... and if it doesn't rain on Wednesday morning I WILL GO to the lab ...

My duh me daughters (Barrie and Jessica) came for a visit on Saturday in the pouring rain ... to pick up the top of Barrie's wedding cake ... next week Mike and Barrie will be celebrating their first wedding anniversary .... to celebrate ... I BELIEVE IN TRADITIONS .. but .. I don't know ....

YOU KNOW I CAN'T TELL YOU HOW WORRIED I WAS ... because Barrie is pregnant and she doesn't speed but SHE WAS ON THE FREEWAY and all I could think of was THAT SHE BE SAFE .... both Barrie and Jessica ridicule me and find me to be a nervous Nellie .... okay I may be overly cautious now more than before and if it sounds selfish OKAY call me selfish ..... but I don't want anything to happen to them ....

I asked them to call me when they got home .... WHICH THEY DIDN'T DO .... so I called and they were so nonchalant about the whole thing .... I don't understand WHY ...

I have not done well this weekend .... of course it wasn't poor choices BUT OVER CHOICES .... so I am starting again today .... and plus I am very nervous about everyone who is going to go to work and school (not only my girls, but my son in laws and grandsons) ... LOL I AM AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY WORRY WART ...

This morning was another late morning .... I stayed in bed listening ... to the rain .. the television talking about the freeways and areas hit by torrents of rain .... and it may sound strange BUT FEELING VERY DEPRESSED .... this constant gray skies and rain has really gotten to me .... I haven't exercised as yet ... and I had a very late breakfast ...

I did truly mean and intend to post in the various Journals and Forums this weekend BUT my mindset just wasn't with everyone here at Diettalk .... and I will attempt to correct that today and tomorrow ....

Because my blood sugar this morning was 144 (not in the low 100's as is the norm) ... I realize and have to be accountable in admitting it came from my eating (overeating) yesterday evening ... so I'm going to as I said earlier in this post to START AGAIN this morning ...

We're once again very low in food ... especially milk and fresh fruits and vegetables ... so on WEDNESDAY I will have to do a massive shopping .... it is almost 12:30 p.m ... and even though I am glad to be here AGAIN posting ... I feel it would be IN MY BEST INTEREST to go on my exercise bicycle ....

I'll be back .... a loving and tremendous :hug: to each and every one of you who visits and have written in my Journal and A SPECIAL :ghug: FOR YOUR BEING HERE FOR ME so that I can express what I am feeling without hesitancy ... and knowing YOU UNDERSTAND ... I am as always, Monica

Can you go shopping for me, too? I have no time! I hate that. *sigh*

Not sure when I will have time. I start tomorrow at 8am and go go go until nighttime!

I hope I can tide myself over until Wednesday..

Wait, wait.. this journal is about YOU, isn't it? Hehehehe :hug:

Corinna

I am very pleased and proud of myself because I GOT DRESSED (lol some big accomplishment right ....) .. and I started the laundry ... AND I EXERCISED ON MY EXERCISE BICYCLE for 31 minutes ... (on Resistance Band 2) ... and it is almost 3 p.m. .... so I have another hour or so to ACTUALLY ACCOMPLISH SOMETHING IN THIS HOUSE TODAY ....

As I am typing this post I am watching the news and they are showing a moutain of mud coming down on top of homes (in Ventura ... a place called La Conchita near Santa Barbara) ... and they are in the process of attempting to rescue people from these homes ....

Once again the point comes home to me THAT I MUST CONTINUE TO THANK G-D FOR HIS LOVING KINDNESS ..... and ask for his protection .... as well as to protect those I love ...

I don't mean to moralize ... BUT I have learned the importance of valuing each day of my life ... granted IT TOOK ME A LONG TIME TO LEARN ... and I don't always MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICES and I sometimes BECOME OVER CONFIDANT .... but then humility sets in ....

Les just helped me hang up clothes ... and now he is going on the exercise bicycle ....

I also want to post my breakfast (which was very late for me) menu:

Egg Sandwich (2 slices Milton's Whole Grain Whole Wheat Bread, 1 slice Jarlsberg Light Swiss Cheese, 1/4 cup All Natural Eggwhite (fried in Pam))

1 cup Trader Joes Nonfat Milk
2 cups brewed coffee
1 1/2 tablespoons Nestle CoffeeMate FF French Vanilla Cream
TOTAL BREAKFAST POINTS: 7 Points
WATER INTAKE : 32 ounces

My lunch menu was: 1 serving Yoplait Light Blackberry Yogurt
TOTAL LUNCH POINTS: 2
WATER INTAKE: 32 ounces

I realize that I have eaten very little so far today ... but because I ate breakfast so late and I AM MINDFUL that my blood sugars are determined by the time I eat ... in my mind blood sugars TAKE PRECEDENCE over food ... it's not about the OVEREATING CHOICES OVER THE WEEKEND ...

PLANNED DINNER MENU:

I have to check the Points by using the Point Card and I will note them later

1 cup Trader Joes Lentil & Vegetable Soup -- 3 Points
4 oz. Trader Joes Grilled Chicken Strips -- 3 Points
1 cup Trader Joes Organic Brown Rice -- 3 Points
2 cups stir fried zucchini -- 0 Points
TOTAL DINNER POINTS -- 9 Points
WATER INTAKE: 16 ounces


Total Fat (50 grams): 8 grams
Saturated Fat (15 grams): 1 grams
Carbohydrates (180 - 220 grams): 172 grams
Cholesterol (300 milligrams): 71 milligrams
Sodium (500 - 2,400 milligrams): 2,268 milligrams
Dietary Fiber (25 - 40 grams): 29 grams
Protein (50 - 90 grams): 76 grams
TOTAL WEIGHT WATCHER POINTS (24 Points): 18 Points
WATER INTAKE (64 - 80 ounces): 80 ounces


5:10 p.m PST -- I took my blood sugar at 4 p.m. .... and it was 77 .... BUT THE STRANGEST THING ... I felt fine .... there was no wave .... I will be back at 8 p.m. to put in my last blood sugar for the evening .... in fact I think I will continue as I once did to post my blood sugars ...

ONE OTHER THING more problems in that community I wrote about ... they are expecting more mudslides ... SO PRAY FOR THOSE FAMILIES .....

8:15 p.m. PST -- Blood sugar was 127 ( which is in the normal range for me)

IN RESPONSE:

CORI:I know you are joking about grocery shopping for you but BELIEVE ME if you lived close to me I would have no hesitancy in doing your grocery shopping ... or in helping in any way I could .... I mean what I say when I say SO MANY OF YOU FEEL LIKE MY FAMILY .... there are many things I don't understand AND (thank goodness) I don't know all the answers to all the questions BUT YOU ARE AS VALUED TO ME AS MY OWN FLESH AND BLOOD .... I enjoy listening about your lives, your children and every time you're unhappy .... I FEEL .. plus I FEEL SO MUCH PRIDE for your ONGOING ACCOMPLISHMENTS .... keep moving forward Cori ....

JUDI:Thanks for stopping by and for caring .... Love you lots ...

BETH: Hello dear friend .... I have heard about your boot camp program .... and I know that WHEN THINGS SETTLE DOWN IN YOUR LIFE ... YOU TOO WILL REGAIN YOUR PROGRESS ... know that my prayers are ongoing for you and yours ..... Love you lots ...

ANNA: You are very welcome and I am looking forward to Thursday and hearing about your progress..... KEEP MOVING FORWARD ... this journey is like a road -- it has many twists and turns .... BUT YOU'RE ALMOST AT JOURNEY'S END ....

I am as always, Monica :hug:

Hi Monica!

Your menus are so yummy, as always. Just wanted to stop in to wish you a happy, healthy new year, and a BIG CONGRATS on your upcoming grandmum-hood!!!! :D When is your daughter due? How exciting.

Best wishes to you and yours, Ivy

MONICA – this morning I was watching the news, and I couldn’t believe how bad the rains were down in Los Angeles. Their were floods everywhere. I was thinking about you. I don’t know how close you are to the LA area, but I’m sure you’ve seen share of rain too.

I’m really glad to see that you decided to stay home today, staying off the road is the safest thing a person can do during weather like this.

There is nothing wrong with being overly cautious. I think that’s just in the nature of a lot of people. My mom is the same exact why. She knows that were all grown adults, but she still worries about us.

I don’t’ see the problem in having your daughters give you a call when they get home. You’re their mother, and it’s only natural that you worry about their safety. My brother gets annoyed when my mom wants him to call her like if he’s going to be late or heading up to San Franciscio. In my brothers eye’s he feels that since he’s 28 years old my mom should stop treating him like a 14 year old. But my mom feels that since he still lives at home he should show some consideration.

:rose: Katherine

Hi ya Mon:wave:

Just poppin in to say hi, and see how well you are doing. I'm happy your chat went well.

I can see the sun today... THis rain has just been miserable. I could barely watch the news last night. :c(

Take care stay dry, and try and sneek some sun! :hug:

Monica,
I hope you check in soon. I am worried about you, my friend. Sending prayers that you and your dear family are warm and safe and dry.

Love,


Vickie:pass:

Tuesday, January 11th, 2005

Good Afternoon,

OH WHAT A BEAUTIFUL AFTERNOON ... OH WHAT A BEAUTIFUL DAY ... THE SUN IS SHINING ... AND THE RAIN HAS FINALLY GONE AWAY :cheer:

I don't know if others react to what the sky looks like .... BUT I DEFINITELY DO .... today I have so much ENERGY .... I feel like I can conquer any or all obstacles that come my way ....

This morning (at 3:15 a.m.) I heard the rain pounding on the window and as I lay there I told myself JUST ONE MORE DAY ... ONE MORE GREY DAY .. and tomorrow SUNSHINE ... :)

I better let you know that I did weigh in this morning .... AND I DID HAVE A GAIN .... but it wasn't a huge gain ... I GAINED ONE HALF OF A POUND .... so my resolve hasn't diminished AND I WILL CONTINUE TO MOVE FORWARD ....

My blood sugar this morning was 117 ... and I did inject 15 mg/dl insulin ....

I also EXERCISED on the recumbent exercise bicycle for 36 minutes ... (5 minutes more than I exercised yesterday ..) I have to admit those 5 extra minutes were somewhat hard on the legs ... lol I didn't get off as gingerly .... but to have increased the time gives me much satisfaction .... I haven't set a specific time goal .... BUT I am determined that by next week I will increase the resistance level on the exercise bicycle ..

BREAKFAST MENU:

1 medium banana (sliced) -- 2 Points
1 cup Kashi Organic Promise Autumn Wheat Cereal -- 3 Points
1 cup Trader Joes Nonfat Milk -- 2 Points
1 cup brewed coffee -- O Points
1 tablespoon Nestle CoffeeMate FF French Vanilla Cream -- 1 Point
TOTAL BREAKFAST POINTS: 8 Points
WATER INTAKE: 36 ounces

Because it was such a wonderful glorious sunshiny day ... I HAD TO GO GROCERY SHOPPING ... we were running low on milk, fruits and vegetables ... and because the stores were having some excellent store ads for fruits and vegetables .... Trader Joes, Ralph's and Vons .... considering what I purchased I feel I did very well .... money wise .... and we have enough to last us for the remainder of this week and next week ....

By the time we came home it was already 11:30 a.m. .... and I made lunch for us both ... and bagged and put away all the fruits and vegetables ....

LUNCH MENU:

2 slices Milton's Whole Grain Whole Wheat Bread -- 3 Points
French's Classic Mustard -- 0 Points
2 slices Jarlsberg Light Swiss Cheese -- 2 Points
5 oz. Trader Joes Organic Peeled Baby Carrots -- 0 Points
6 medium (large) Radishes -- 0 Points
1 serving Yoplait Light White Chocolate Raspberry Yogurt -- 2 Points
TOTAL LUNCH POINTS: 7 Points
WATER INTAKE: 32 ounces

Tomorrow I will be going to the lab ... to take my fasting blood sugar .... hopefully my doctor will receive the results by my next Monday's appointment ... I usually always go a week before my appointment BUT as I said I WON'T DRIVE IN THE RAIN ....

Also tomorrow in the afternoon Les will be going to his fraternity's yearly get together ... he's been looking forward to this get together ..... so I think I will go out ... lol I THINK I HEAR THE STORES CALLING ME ....

PLANNED DINNER MENU:

I will fill in the Points and the Nutritional Values later this afternoon ...

1/2 cup Cole Slaw (Fresh Express Shredded Cabbage with Carrots, Smart Beat FF Mayonnaise, Dole SF Crushed Pineapple) -- 3
4 oz Grilled-Marinated Salmon Fillet (Lawry's Sesame Ginger Marinade, Salmon Fillet) -- 3
1/2 (large) baked Yam -- 2
2 cups steamed broccoli crown -- 0
TOTAL DINNER POINTS: 8 Points

WATER INTAKE: 16 ounces

Blood Sugar @ 4 p.m. -- 78 (no insulin .... oral meds) :cheers:

Total Fat (50 grams): 21 grams
Saturated Fat (15 grams): 4 grams
Carbohydrates (180 - 220 grams): 244 grams NOT GOOD - NOT TOO BAD:tomato:
Cholesterol (300 milligrams): 116 milligrams
Sodium (500 - 2,400 milligrams): 1,045 milligrams
Dietary Fiber (25 - 40 grams): 34 grams
Protein (50 - 90 grams): 78 grams
TOTAL POINTS FOR THE DAY (24 Points): 23 Points
WATER INTAKE FOR THE DAY (64 - 80 ounces): 80 ounces


I am going to attempt to post a topic and a recipe in for the "I CAN" Chat today ....

Blood Sugar @ 8 p.m. -- 134 (10 mg/dl insulin)


IN RESPONSE:

IVY aka IVORYROSE: Thank you for stopping by and visiting ... lol you must have been adding your message at the same time I was adding my message to your Journal .... I AM SO DELIGHTED THAT YOU HAVE COME BACK ... and are once again committed to ACHIEVE YOUR GOALS ... make it a great day .... and I will be eagerly reading your journal about your successes ....

KATHERINE: No thank goodness I wasn't in any of the areas where the rivers (where streets used to be) were running ... but the irony is that in one of the areas where I once worked ... where the street was always flooded THIS TIME WAS MUCH WORSE ... the city is Sun Valley (which is a part of Los Angeles City) and for years they said they had to resolve the problem .... and that was now 15 years ago ... AND THEY STILL HAVEN'T FIXED THE PROBLEM) ....

LOL your brother's sentiments are often expressed by both Barrie (mostly Barrie) and Jessica ... now that Laurie is married and has children SHE TOTALLY UNDERSTANDS my concern ... but the only difference is my girls don't reside at home ... which imo makes things more difficult .... but I am glad that you UNDERSTAND where I am coming from as a parent (as well as seeing it from your mother's perspective) ...

I am keeping a POSITIVE THOUGHT about your getting this job .... and imo the oral part of the interview is MORE IMPORTANT than written tests .. because tests don't indicate the caliber of work being required .... make it a great evening ... and I hope to see you in chat sometime soon ...

MAXI: Hi there .... I am telling you watching what was going on in La Conchita in the afternoon .... as well as watching all the news programs .. made me so anxious .... in some ways this was just as bad (if not more so) as the fires ....

I was so glad to see the sun this morning ... right now the sun is fading in and out ... but as I look out I can see the mountains, the greenery on the mountains AND big white cotton puffs of clouds in the sky .... and being able to get out and go to the grocery store ... lol WAS A TREAT ... I am glad you are back ... and I HAVE TOTAL FAITH IN YOUR ACHIEVING YOUR GOAL ... good things are going to happen for you ... I KNOW IT .. I BELIEVE IT . ... so my dear Vanna ... just as Vanna White turns letters ... YOU WILL TURN EACH DAY INTO A SUCCESSFUL ONE ... make it a great day ...

VICKI: Hello .... and I thank you with a great deal of sincerity ....

I have to admit it gives me a very warm feeling KNOWING THAT SOMEONE CARES ENOUGH TO WORRY ABOUT ME ... it may sound strange to say that .. but I am usually the one (and I don't mean to sound like I am being a martyr) who worries of others .... and I often feel that those who are close to me assume that I CAN HANDLE EVERYTHING ... lol and I have to claim partial responsibility because I've never said differently .... BUT EVERYONE NEEDS TO KNOW THAT SOMEONE CARES ENOUGH TO WORRY ABOUT THEM .... I have visited your Journal .... and I say to you ... YOUR SUCCESS WILL HAPPEN ... sometimes it doesn't happen the way we want it to .. BUT EACH DAY YOU MAKE A POSITIVE CHANGE OR CHOICE .. makes each step of your journey easier and closer to what you are going to accomplish ... I hope John was able to answer your question .... and hopefully you will be able to join us on Thursday evening ... IF NOT ... we'll work something out ... take care and make it a great day .. Love you lots .....

A loving and tremendous :hug: to each and every one of you who reads this Journal entry ... take care of yourselves ..... I am as always, Monica

Some of that rain that has been bothering you has come over the mountains to Wyoming and is falling here as snow. Very welcome snow. We need the moisture, and you in California really don't.

The pictures on TV of the weather problems in California are really dreadful.

Stay safe, friend.

Hi Monica,
Thank goodness you are ok. I too have been watching the news and you know me......I am a chronic worrier. I knew you lived somewhere near L.A. but was not sure where and the longer you did not post today, the more worried I became. Guess it is the "caretaker" in me.......

Stay dry and safe, my friend.


Love,


Vickie:pass:

Hi Monica.

I'm gld you are enjoying the sun.. I think I may even go out and work in my front yard today. This rain has caused lots of unwanted Greenry that I must get rid of. :D

I'm sure your little 1/2 pound is just fluid, not a actual 1/2 pound of fat. No worries. Do you have a Albertsons around you? I was just wondering if you found there prices to be high or the same.

Monica I am so proud of you for riding that bike and keeping up wih your exercise. I could squeeze you.. :hug:

Thanks for your continued support my dear.... And you know what, I think some time this year we should meet...... ;)

Hi Monica, I'm back from my trip to Shanghai. I wrote all about it in my journal. Really wish you were there to see the city yourself. I'm sure you would want to see where you were born and the streets you & your family lived. Weather was nice and cold .. been many years since I experienced cold weather like 33 degrees but I loved it. Unfortunately, I didn't put enough lotion and now my skin is like a snake's skin and it itches!

Hi Monica,

I am so glad you have sun again. When I lived in the Houston area we went 61 days without sun. It was reported everyday on the TV as to our gloom. I wasn't used to no sun and it really did a number on my mood.

Good going on your program. 1/2 lb is just a little blurb on the screen. You will lose that and keep going.

Enjoy your sun and have a good day.

Carol

MONICA – I know how you feel, I’m just as happy as you about the change in the weather. I’m really sorry but I won’t be able to make the “I Can” chat this week. Where having guests over that evening. And just a minute ago I was thinking how great it is that I can finally start attending the chats again, and then I remembered about Thursday.

Aren’t recumbent bikes great. I love the fact that they have huge seats. That’s great that you went for an extra 5 minutes I’m really proud.

My mom and I are going shopping tonight. So today I’m going to be looking at the adds and planning out dinners for the week. Last time I was at the store I brought some seedless watermelon. I’ve really been enjoying it. I’m slowly stating to incorporated more healthy choices into my eating plan. I’m still not back on program yet; however I’m not going to worry about that. For now I’m eating what’s at home and not eating junk food from the store.

How was the white chocolate raspberry yogurt. I’ve never seen that in the store before. I’m really glad that they stock up the stores last night for the sales this week.

I don’t blame you for not driving in the rain. Last Friday when I was driving home on the expressway it was raining. I had a real hard time seeing the road because it was so blurred from the water hitting my front window. They have this special coat that they can on your glasses to help sharpen your vision at night or when its raining. That’s something that I really need to have on my glasses.

:rose: Katherine

Wednesday, January 12th, 2005

Good Morning/Afternoon,

Well this morning I got up at 6 a.m. .... drank a HUGE glass of water, got dressed and we left the house at 7 a.m. .... and I WAS THE FIRST ONE IN LINE .... as we were waiting for the lab to open a couple sat down next to me and our conversation went from the past weeks rain .... to the war ... PLUS the man was talking to Les about his experiences during the second World War .... you know imo we can learn so much from others .... I think the next time (I found out we go to the same doctor) I will introduce myself ... and somehow by talking to them it made the time go quickly .... lol I didn't ask Les once what time it was ....

I also mailed Barrie and Mike's anniversary card earlier this morning .. there anniversary is next Tuesday-- I know it is early to be sending out the card .. but better early than late ...

We got home from the lab at 8:15 a.m. -- and I took my blood sugar ...

Blood Sugar @ 8:15 a.m. -- 117 (15 mg/dl insulin injection)

I got breakfast together for Les and I ... and while the coffee was brewing (lol ) I made the bed ....

BREAKFAST MENU:

3/4 cup Dole canned Pineapple Chunks (in Juice) -- 2 Points
Mushroom Omlette (1/4 cup All Natural Eggwhite -- sliced Mushrooms ) -- 0 Points
2 slices Milton's Whole Grain Whole Wheat Bread -- 3 Points
1 1/2 tablespoon Smart Balance Margarine -- 0 Points *
1 cup Trader Joes Nonfat Milk -- 2 Points
1 cup brewed coffee -- 0 Points
1 1/2 tablespoon Nestle CoffeeMate FF French Vanilla Cream -- 1 Point
TOTAL BREAKFAST POINTS: 8 Points
WATER INTAKE: 32 ounces

* According to WW Point Guide 4 Tablespoons Fat Free Margarine = 1 Point

In another 25 minutes Les will be leaving to go to his fraternity's yearly reunion .. lol I wonder what they will talk about ... considering these men are now in their early to mid 70's ... it sure won't be . lol I WILL LET YOU USE YOUR IMAGINATION ....

I thought that while Les was going to his reunion I would go out to the mall ... but I think I will hold off .. while he's gone I can accomplish doing things I can't do while he's home .... mainly clean the den ....

In a while I will go on my exercise bicycle ... I am going to increase my time by four minutes ... my goal is to accomplish 45 minutes of exercise by Friday of this week .... and starting next Monday I will increase the Resistance on the bicycle to 3 --

Also I have to go thru my recipe disks to find some crockpot and soup recipes to email to a couple of my fellow DT family ....

PLANNED LUNCH MENU:

2 slices Milton's Whole Grain Whole Wheat Bread -- 3 Points
French's Classic Mustard -- 0 Points
1 serving Morningstar Farms Better 'n Burgers -- 2 Points
5 oz. Trader Joes Organic Peeled Baby Carrots -- 0 Points
6 (medium-large) Red Radishes -- 0 Points
1 serving Yoplait Light Very Cherry Yogurt -- 2 Points
TOTAL LUNCH POINTS: 7 Points
WATER INTAKE: 32 ounces

I only managed to do 30 minutes exercise ... TOMORROW IS ANOTHER DAY

Blood Sugar @ 4 p.m. -- 107 (10 mg/dl insulin injection)

PLANNED DINNER MENU:

Garden Salad (Trader Joes Spring Salad Mix For 2, Roma Tomato, Red Radishes, Celery, Persian Cucumber) -- 0 Points
1 1/2 tablespoons Kraft FF Catalina Salad Dressing -- 1 Point
1 1/2 links Sweet Italian Turkey Sausage -- 4 Points
1 1/2 cup Mock Mashed Potatoes (Trader Joes Microwave Cauliflowerets, Smart Balance Margarine, Kraft Reduced Fat Parmesan Cheese) -- 1 Point
1 cup Trader Joes Organic Baked Beans -- 2 Points
TOTAL DINNER POINTS: 8 Points
WATER INTAKE: 16 ounces

Total Fat (50 grams): 17 grams
Saturated Fat (15 grams): 3 grams
Carbohydrates (180 - 220 grams): 243 grams :up:
Cholesterol (300 milligrams): 68 milligrams
Sodium (500 - 2,400 milligrams): 2,781 milligrams :(
Dietary Fiber (25 - 40 grams): 62 grams
Protein (50 - 90 grams): 93 grams :c(
TOTAL WEIGHT WATCHER POINTS (24 Points): 23 Points
WATER INTAKE (64 - 80 ounces): 80 ounces


* I purchased Jenni-0 Turkey Store Sweet Italian Turkey Sausage and I just noticed that the fat content for this was quite high (imo 10 grams of fat for 1 link is high) so I am not going to get upset if the total fat content is higher than usual .... NEXT TIME I WON'T BUY IT ....

Blood Sugar @ 8 p.m. 99 (oral meds) :jn

IN RESPONSE:

Carol: It is an absolutely gorgeous morning .... clear blue skies and still somewhat cold ..... BUT I AM NOT COMPLAINING . .... as long as the sun is shining I can live with the cold weather ... I am glad to see I am not the only one affected .... hopefully the rainstorms have passed for a while yet ..
Right now I am watching the news regarding the mudslide .... the fatalities are very disheartening ....

I am not dwelling on the 1/2 pound I gained ..... and I am determined that this year IS MY YEAR ... and knowing that I can come here and say what I am feeling and share .. IS A MAJOR SOURCE OF ENABLING ME TO SUCCEED ....make it a great day my friend .... and thank you so much for your ongoing support and encourage ----

China: WELCOME BACK ... you're right it would be something to see the country .... my father told me the name of the street where he and my mother lived (Route Prosper Paris -- not sure if that is the spelling) .... he also shared about the beautiful parks ... apparently my parents did not have a lot of money to spend on entertainment .. and they went to hear concerts in the park .... I always thought what a beautiful and simplistic way to live ..... lol doggone it I was born at the wrong time .... today going to a concert one has to pay .... and the performances of real music is almost non-existant ....

I guess because both my parents loved classical music ... I too developed a love of music ... lol BUT MY PARENTS abhorred rock 'n roll (especially Elvis Presley) and I just LOVED IT ... imo all kinds of music can be enjoyed ... I will definitely be reading your Journal later on today .... again welcome back and make it a great day ......

Maxi: Hello Vanna ... lol .... I love my recumbent bike and my daughter Laurie was correct when she said it would be far more comfortable for me using this kind of exercise bicycle rather than the other one that WAS SO UNCOMFORTABLE to sit on ... I so wish I had the room for other things like a treadmill .... and other types of toning equipment -- but I will use what I have ... I also took (out of mothballs) some resistance bands .. and a mat ... I am going to ATTEMPT situps .. I will set up days and time that Les can help me .... lol I am not quite the spring chicken I once was .... KEEP YOUR FOCUS ON THAT ACHIEVABLE GOAL and I KNOW THAT WE WILL BOTH REALIZE OUR GOALS ... take care and make it a great day ....

Vicki: Me too ... I worry ..... but I ONLY WORRY ABOUT THE PEOPLE I CARE ABOUT .. and I am very appreciative that you CARE ABOUT ME .... each day you're learning ..... each day you're improving and YOUR SUCCESS IS GOING TO BE ATTAINED .... take care and make it a great day ....

AND A SPECIAL RECOGNITION TO A VERY SPECIAL LADY .... who will hopefully read this ..... TO (icpc) SUE .... CONGRATULATIONS ON HAVING REACHED A WONDERFUL MILESTONE OF 100 POUNDS GONE ... AND PROVING SUCCESS CAN BE ACHIEVED WITHOUT PILLS, FADS OR PROGRAMS THAT CHARGE YOU MONEY FOR DOING WHAT IS ACHIEVABLE BY USING TIME AND PATIENCE :cheer:

A loving and tremendous :hug: to each and every one of you who reads this Journal entry ... take care of yourself, make yourself a priority AND THANK YOU FOR BEING WHO YOU ARE .... I am as always, Monica

:wave: Hello Monica, just checking on you and wishing you a great day!

Hi Aria, :wave:

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR STOPPING BY TO SAY HELLO .....

I read your Journal entry for today .... and I know that you don't have a lot of time in your schedule to post your menus ...

I was curious if you are using www.fitday.com what nutritional goals you are setting for yourself ... I still use the basic nutritional goals that Dietwatch suggested ... I have modified some of them especially the carbohydrates ... but I have kept the other goals ....

MOST IMPORTANT IS KEEP ON BELIEVING IN YOUR ABILITY TO SUCCEED ... we're all going to have setbacks ... again thank you for your support and encouragement .. IT MEANS A GREAT DEAL TO ME ... I am as always, Monica :hug:

Hi Monica....You are doing fantastic! SO glad to hear that your rain has let up...have seen it on the news. This is YOUR year...keep on going....you CAN do it!! Hugs, AJ

Monica, I use fitday.com only to record my weight graph and goals. But I do keep track of my calories daily on a good old note book. I just can't deal with electronics unless I have too, lol. I did try it, but it was way too time consuming for me.
Have a nice day!

Hi Aria,

I know what you mean .... when I first started using Fitday when we came here from Dietwatch .... I became so FRUSTRATED in learning to use it and especially because a majority of the foods listed didn't adhere to my nutritional needs .... by listing what I had to monitor ...

And it was time consuming to add items ... lol some of which I no longer use but WAY TOO TIME consuming to delete

As long as you are recording your intake ... that is what is important .. :up: Keep moving forward success is SOMETHING YOU WILL ACHIEVE ..

I am going back to bed .... I didn't have a good night's sleep .... I don't know what is going on .... or what is on my mind .... lol and I am too tired to think about it ... Make it a great day. I am as always, Monica :hug:

Hi Monica..... glad to see that you weren't near that mudslide. How horrible for those families. We are having terrible flooding here in Ohio, too. It's worse than it's been in a long, long time. Many people have died and so many have lost their homes. It's all so sad. We're in no danger of being flooded out where we are, although our yard is flooded in some areas, but in no danger of coming into the house. They just came on TV and ordered another evacuation of a town because they've had to start controlled releases on the damn nearby.

Sunshine would sure look good right about now.

I wanted to let you know that I'll be at chat as long as we have power. There's really high winds and power lines are coming down again. Bad storm on it's way.... so if I don't show up, you'll know it was either lightning and I had the computer off or we didn't have power. Thank goodness it's in the 60's right now so we don't have to freeze with no power like we did just before Christmas. lol

Take care and good job on being so faithful to your exercising! It's inspiring!! I'm heading up to make dinner right now, but after I get that on the go, I'm getting on my health walker for a bit. Talk to you soon!

Hi DJ, :wave:

Thanks for stopping by and visiting .... I just woke up a few minutes ago ... thanks to a phone call for Les ... who left me a note saying that he was going out and would be back in a while ... lol unfortunately I don't know what time he left but lol if he went to Barnes & Noble he should be back eventually ....

Right now as I am typing this message I am watching the news ... the devastation of the mudslide was horiffic and from what is now being said there is more slippage and the have decided to withdraw from the area ....

Hopefully the situation in your community will not have to suffer the same effects as those residents who live in Ventura (that's where the mudslide occurred) ... I thank you for letting me know about whether you might/or might not be able to join us this evening .... I greatly appreciate the courtesy ....

Also THANK YOU very much for your post regarding snacks in the General Diet Forum for the "I CAN" chat ... I appreciate all the information you have given because KNOWLEDGE IN OUR WEIGHT LOSS JOURNEY IS POWER IN SUCCEEDING ....

I'd better go and feed my face ... thanks again .... and I will hopefully see you this evening. Love you lots, I am as always, Monica :hug:

Because I slept most of yesterday away I have some errands to run ...

But I will be back later today to post in my Journal and to post in other forums ...

Make it a great day .... I am as always, Monica :hug:

Friday, January 14th, 2005

Good Afternoon,

What an absolutely gorgeous and sunshiney California day .... Les and I just got back from doing our errands .... and we also stopped at the animal shelter .... I saw the cutest white terrier (online) ... and I guess in my heart of hearts I am looking for a dog ....

I had told Barrie and Mike that as much as I appreciated their thinking of me in wanting to give me the chihuahua puppy .... I have to admit I am just not in to chihuahuas ...

Needless to say the terrier wasn't at the shelter ... so I will have to keep looking ... and maybe someday I will find THE PERFECT dog ... they had several cocker spaniels but when we had Muffin (who was an adorable tricolor cocker spaniel) ... we had very high vet bills and since now we live on Les' pension and his Social Security ... we can't afford those kind of bills ...

Blood Sugar @ 7:45 a.m. -- 111 (15 mg/dl insulin injection)

BREAKFAST MENU:

1 cup Dole canned Pineapple Chunks in Juice -- 2 Points
Mushroom Omlette (1/4 cup All Natural Eggwhite, sliced mushrooms) -- 0 Point
1 cup Trader Jose Nonfat Milk -- 2 Points
1 slice Milton's Whole Grain Whole Wheat Bread -- 1 Point
1 tablespoon Smart Balance Margarine -- 0 Points
1 tablespoon Smuckers SF Blackberry Jam -- 0 Points
1 cup brewed coffee -- 0 Points
1 tablespoon Nestle CoffeeMate FF French Vanilla Cream -- 1 Point
TOTAL BREAKFAST POINTS: 6 Points
WATER INTAKE: 32 ounces

Exercise Bicycle -- 38 minutes .... starting next week I will be raising the Resistance Level to 3

LUNCH MENU:

2 slices Milton's Whole Grain Whole Wheat Bread -- 3 Points
French's Classic Mustard -- 0 Points
1 serving Morningstar Farms Better 'n Burgers -- 2 Points
1/2 Roma Tomato (sliced) -- 0 Points
5 oz. Trader Joes Organic Peeled Baby Carrots -- 0 Points
1 serving Yoplait Light Boston Creme Yogurt -- 2 Points
TOTAL LUNCH POINTS: 7 Points
WATER INTAKE: 16 oz. Crystal Light Raspberry Ice Tea ..
16 oz. Water

Blood Sugar @ 3:50 p.m. -- 98 (oral meds)

PLANNED DINNER MENU:

1 cup serving grilled Sausage and Green Peppers (Hillshire Farms Smoked Kielbasa Sausage and Bell Green Peppers) -- 4 Points
1 cup Manischewitz Yolk Free Wide Noodles -- 3 Points
6 steamed Brussels Sprouts -- 0 Points
1/2 cup Trader Joes Chunky Cinnamon Applesauce -- 2 Points
TOTAL DINNER POINTS: 9 Points
WATER INTAKE: 16 ounces

Total Fat (50 grams): 20 grams
Saturated Fat (15 grams): 3 grams
Carbohydrates (180 - 220 grams): 208 grams
Cholesterol (300 milligrams): 57 milligrams
Sodium (500 - 2,400 milligrams): 2,132 milligrams
Dietary Fiber (25 - 40 grams): 35 grams
Protein (50 - 90 grams): 62 grams
TOTAL WEIGHT WATCHER POINTS (24 Points): 22 Points
WATER INTAKE (64 - 80 ounces): 80 ounces


A loving and tremendous :hug: to each and every one of you who reads this Journal entry ... I am now going to go and plant some rose bushes and pot some plants that I purchased today from Lowe's .... thanks to the rain planting the roses will be easier because the dirt is loose ... make it a great weekend. I am as always, Monica

Hi Linda,

I know that you CAN lose weight ... you have proven that ...

I also know that you become easily discouraged when it doesn't happen as fast as you want it to ... or if you don't lose as much weight as you expect to ....

I am currently using the Weight Watcher program for a change because I felt I needed something new ... something different ; I will stay with it for a while because like you I want to see results ....

Now that WW has two plans, I have selected the flex points program because I know myself ... the Core Plan (that they are currently promoting) is not for me because I am the type of person who needs DEFINITE GUIDELINES ...

You asked me if going online is good .... since I haven't participated online -- I can't say anything negative or positive .... but if you feel THAT BY PARTICIPATING ONLINE THIS WILL ENABLE YOU TO ACHIEVE YOUR GOALS ... then in my honest opinion YOU SHOULD GO FOR IT .. :up:

I say this to you with a lot of love and some understanding of you .. Weight Watchers imo is a good plan BUT LIKE ANY OTHER WEIGHT LOSS PLAN the only way it works is if YOU WORK THE PLAN ..

I enjoyed the meetings that I attended .. and the only reason I stopped going was because of the embarassment when I gained ... looking back at it I see that Les was right .... I TOOK A STUPID COMMENT FROM A STUPID PERSON AND PLACED IT ON MY SHOULDERS ... and looking at it now that times has passed I MADE A MOUNTAIN OUT OF A MOLEHILL ..... will I go back ... I don't know will I continue on this journey BUT DEFINITELY ....

You know that I am in your corner ..... I am here for you Linda ... I will walk beside you .... and EVERY TIME YOU POST IN YOUR JOURNAL I READ WHAT YOU WRITE ... sometimes I feel that others opinions ARE FAR BETTER STATED AND RIGHT ON THE MARK .... and I step back .. BUT I AM AND ALWAYS WILL BE INTERESTED IN HOW YOU ARE DOING ....

Don't ever doubt that .. I care about you .. I care and am thrilled WITH YOU WHEN YOU MAKE PROGRESS .. I care and become concerned when YOU ARE DOWN ...

Whatever you choose Linda ... IT STARTS WITH YOU ..... I still feel that YOU CAN AND WILL SUCCEED .. TAKE IT ONE DAY AT A TIME ... ONE MEAL AT A TIME .... and BELIEVE IN YOURSELF ....

I don't know if you're aware but we've formed a new chat ... we meet on Thursday evening and it is called "I CAN" .... and I am thrilled :jn at the POSITIVE RESPONSE by so many here at Diettalk .. won't you please think about joining us .. we learn and benefit from each other's experience .....

Love you lots my friend ... I am as always, Monica :hug:

Hi Monica :wave:

I am glad that it finally stopped raining for you. Everyone needs to see the sun once in a while. Now the rescuers can do their work on the mudslide without an additional hinderance of weather.

Well winter has returned to Central New York. We did receive a couple of inches of snow. We average 132" of the white stuff every year. We are way behind that now. Yesterday it was 60 degrees which is unheard of in January. Today the wind chill was 11 degrees which was too cold to walk with the dog. I should send you a pic of him in his sweater. He looks so cute.

Since you are looking at the animal shelters you want to research the different breeds of dogs for temperment etc. www.akc.org

Here is the link to my Tibetan Spaniel. http://www.akc.org/breeds/tibetan_spaniel/index.cfm If by chance you find one at the shelter. They are a GREAT dog to get.

Another site for you to look at online is www.petfinder.com this is where my family found Buddy for me.

I am so happy with my dog. I am so glad that my family gave him to me. He is such enormouse company. Just think you will have another form of :ex: to do everyday. If you get the Animal Planet on your cable system then this weekend they are going to have a dog show. Cocker Spaniels are so cute. I sorry to hear that Muffin ended up needing alot of medical care. :(

Your chat always seem to be so popular. Everyone was always :) to see you at DW too. I am :) that you decided to start one up again. I am certainly going to try to attend them all.

Best regards Ria :rose:

MONICA – you know something I just realized that you haven’t talked about Shorty and Suzee for a while. Do you still have them? I think you told somebody here that you don’t have them anymore but I wasn’t sure. Good luck in your search for the perfect pup.

Your doing so great with your bike riding. I’m really proud of you. When I start exercising again, I’m going to ride the bike.

:balloons: Katherine

Saturday, January 15th, 2005

Good Morning/Afternoon,

It is another beautiful sunshiney California morning .... and in my house it is freezing ... in the next couple of months I have to call someone in to check on the insulation (if we have any) in our attic ... lol when I go outside it is so much warmer ... I am having to go outside to defrost and somehow that just doesn't seem right ....

Just a minute ... I will be right back I need to check and see if the second load of laundry (towels) is done .. yep ... towels are done ... and they are sitting on top of the dryer (in a basket) and now I have the permanent press clothes (isn't that so wonderful wash and hang ... lol and then wear) in the washer ...

I have so much energy this morning .. I know, I know I am a weird person .. but on sunshiney days I can and WANT to accomplish so much ... earlier this morning I made a list of EVERYTHING I WAS GOING TO DO TODAY and I will be checking it off methodically ...

Blood Sugar @ 8 a.m. -- 111 (10 mg/dl insulin injection -- I know that I am supposed to inject 15 mg/dl insulin ... but lately I've noticed when my blood sugars are this low and I do inject 15 mg/dl .. I start to feel funny ... and as usual its because blood sugar has dropped and I have to either eat something or take out a piece of hard candy .... so this morning I figured I would inject less -- and will see how I feel)

BREAKFAST MENU:
1 cup blueberries -- 1 Point
1 cup Trader Joes Essentials Cereal -- 3 Points
1 cup Trader Joes Nonfat Milk -- 2 Points
1 cup brewed coffee -- 0 Points
1 tablespoon Nestle CoffeeMate FF French Vanilla Cream -- 1 Point
TOTAL BREAKFAST POINTS: 7 Points
WATER INTAKE: 32 ounces

Because I haven't really done too much in the house this past week ... I really do have to roll up my sleeves and get cracking :whip: around here .. I am putting here the list I made for myself (other than the usual routine) of what I am going to accomplish today --

ACTIVITIES:

Laundry: Linens, Towels and Clothes --DONE
Bathroom: Clean Sinks and Toilets (bedroom, hall and den)-- DONE
Bathroom: Clean Shower and Tub (bedroom and hall) --NOT DONE
Exercise Bicycle (going for 40 minutes) : 38 minutes --DONE
Dust: Living Room, Dining Room, Family Room, Bedroom --DONE
Vacuum: Living Room, Dining Room, Family Room and hallway-- HALF DONE
Kitchen: Clean Stove (top) and Refrigerator (outside) -- DONE

As you can see from my list my agenda for today is quite full ... and later this afternoon/evening I will mark off here (as on my list) what I have finished ...
I also want to do some yard work ..... lol before the sun goes down ... and I want to keep an open mind in finishing those I have set before me but if not .... MY GOALS FOR TODAY HAVE NOT BEEN SET IN CONCRETE ....

PLANNED LUNCH MENU:
2 slices Milton's Whole Grain Whole Wheat Bread -- 3 Points
French's Classic Mustard -- 0 Points
4 slices Healthy Choice Oven Roasted Turkey Breast -- 1 Point
1 slice Jarlsberg Light Swiss Cheese -- 1 Point
4 oz. Trader Joes Organic Peeled Baby Carrots -- 0 Points
1/2 Roma Tomato (sliced) -- 0 Points
6 medium/large radishes -- 0 Points
1 serving Yoplait Light Orange Creme Yogurt -- 2 Points
TOTAL LUNCH POINTS: 7 Points
WATER INTAKE: 32 ounces

Blood Sugar @ 4 p.m. -- 101 (5 mg/dl insulin injection)

PLANNED DINNER MENU:
Garden Salad (Trader Joes Romaine Salad Mix For 2, Roma Tomato, Persian Cucumber, radishes, celery, jicama, green onion, red,yellow and orange mini peppers, black olives) -- 1 Point
2 tablespoons Kraft FF Catalina Salad Dressing -- 0 Points
1 serving Baked Chicken with Mushrooms (boneless, skinless chicken breast, Campbells Cream of Mushroom Soup, sliced mushrooms) -- 4 Points
NOT HAVING-- 1 cup serving Trader Joes Organic Brown Rice
1/2 cup Green Giant (frozen) Au Gratin Potatoes -- 3 Points *
2 cups steamed zucchini, crookneck squash -- 0 Points
1/2 cup Trader Joes Chunky Cinnamon Applesauce -- 2 Points

* I just noticed this in the big freezer and decided it would be a nice change to our dinner ...
TOTAL DINNER POINTS: 10 Points
WATER INTAKE: 8 ounces

Total Fat (50 grams): 21 grams
Saturated Fat (15 grams): 5 grams
Carbohydrates (180 - 220 grams): 222 NOT GOOD ... BUT NOT THAT BAD
Cholesterol (300 milligrams): 194 milligrams A LITTLE HIGHER THAN NORMAL
Sodium (500 - 2,400 milligrams): 2, 173 milligrams
Dietary Fiber (25 - 40 grams): 49 grams EXCELLENT :cheer:
Protein (50 - 90 grams): 119 grams YIKES ..... WAY TOO MUCH :tomato:
TOTAL WEIGHT WATCHER POINTS (24 Points): 24 Points :)
TOTAL WATER INTAKE (64 - 80 ounces): 72 ounces :up:


Blood Sugar @ 8 p.m. -- 106 (oral meds)

Brb I need to hang up clothes in washer and put in the last load in the washer .... 10:15 okay I am back ...

IN RESPONSE:

Katherine: Hello ... we gave both Shorty and Suzee back to the agency where we adopted them in March/April of 2004 ... primarily because Suzee was eating up the furniture (the arm of one of my Queen Anne chairs) and when we adopted them we were told they came as a pair ... although both Les and I really bonded with the dogs ... I couldn't see that kind of destruction (Les had repaired the chairs twice) nor could I go out and buy another piece of furniture ...

Because we've always had pets in the house ... it is strange not to have one .. and I do go thru phases .... Barrie and Mike had wanted to give us a chihuahua puppy ... but first of all I can't run after a puppy ... (and I would be the one training it ) and second I am not really that fond of chihuahuas ...

A loving and tremendous :hug: to each and every one of you who reads this Journal entry .... I've got to get going and I will be back later to update my Journal and make whatever additions or corrections .... MAKE IT A GREAT DAY AND HAVE AND MAKE IT A FANTASTIC WEEKEND. I am as always, Monica

Stopping in to say hi :)
i hope that you find the right breed of dog for you and Les. My parents bought my children a Jack Russell puppy for Christmas..he is the right dog for our family..he is such a loyal little guy..he follows the kids around everywhere..i cant wait til he can run with me and help me get some more exercise in lol... at the moment he digs his back legs into the ground and i have to drag him..or course i end up carrying him..thats his plan i guess..:)
i am a firm believer in getting the right breed of dog for your individual needs..we really wanted an active dog that would keep the kids outside and away from the tv..Casper certainly does that!
Looks like you are doing wonderfully with ww still! good for you..i met up with a friend i hadnt seen in 6 months last night..she had lost 70 pounds since i saw her last doing ww..she looks fabulous.
hugs bell :)

Just wanted to stop by and say hi, and thanks for taking the time to write in my journal.

Puppy shopping - that sounds like fun (although I have to admit that I really am a kitty fan). My sister has a miniature ****zu(?) It is really adorable!!

Keep us posted!!

Hi Monica, so are you and les thinking about "maybe" getting a dog?

I know how rough that whole situation was with your other 2 - so I can understand why you may be gun shy........

I just wanted to pop in and say "hi" :wave:

& see how you are doing :)

Beth :peace:

Sunday, January 16th, 2005

Good Morning/Afternoon,

It is another gorgeous sunshiny California morning .... I've just finished reading (and bagging) my portion of the Sunday newspaper .... and Les is still reading his ..... I have accumulated quite a pile of coupons that have to be cut (and filed) so that will be one of the many things I plan on accomplishing today ...

Right now I am sitting here in my nightshirt, fleece robe and I have elevated my left leg ... once again my ankle is swollen .... not twice the size BUT discernably swollen .... it only goes to show I SHOULDN'T BE SO SMUG .... tomorrow I have my appointment to see my pcp .... so I guess I will have to speak to him about it ... drat it all ...

I got up later than usual this morning ... quarter to eight .... and of course I had to watch my news programs so by the time I got up and started my day it was already 9 a.m. ...

My blood sugar was somewhat elevated this morning .... not high but higher than my usual morning blood sugars ....

Blood Sugar @ 9 a.m. -- 135 (15 mg/dl insulin injection)

BREAKFAST MENU:

Egg Sandwich -- 5 Points
2 slices Milton's Whole Grain Whole Wheat Bread -- 3 Points
1 slice American Heart Canadian Bacon -- 1 Point
1/4 cup All Natural Eggwhite -- 0 Points
1 slice Jarlsberg Light Swiss Cheese -- 1 Point
1 cup Trader Joes Nonfat Milk -- 2 Points
1 cup brewed coffee -- 0 Points
1 tablespoon Nestle CoffeeMate FF French Vanilla Cream -- 1 Point
TOTAL BREAKFAST POINTS: 8 Points
WATER INTAKE: 32 ounces

ACTIVITIES:

Exercise Bicycle (Resistance #3) -- 25 minutes BOY AM I PROUD :up:
Vacuum: Family Room and Hallway
Bathroom: Clean Shower and Tub (bedroom and hall)
Diettalk: Post in Diabetes and Senior Forums
Grocery Coupons: Cut and File
Tax Preparation (State and Federal): Gather receipts

PLANNED LUNCH MENU:

Chicken Salad Sandwich: -- 6 Points
2 slices Milton's Whole Grain Whole Wheat Bread -- 3 Points
1/2 leftover Chicken Breast -- 3 Points
SmartBeat FF Mayonnaise -- 0 Points
Green Onion -- 0 Points
Celery -- 0 Points
4 oz. Trader Joes Organic Peeled Baby Carrots -- 0 Points
1 serving Yoplait Light Blueberry Patch Yogurt -- 2 Points
1 large Navel Orange -- 1 Point
TOTAL LUNCH POINTS: 9 Points
WATER INTAKE: 32 ounces

Blood Sugar @ 3:50 p.m. -- 112 (10 mg/dl insulin)

PLANNED DINNER MENU: This menu was written and planned for today -- BUT may be changed

Garden Salad -- 0 Points
Trader Joes Spring Salad Mix For 2
Roma Tomato
Celery
Red, Yellow and Orange Mini Pepper
Persian Cucumber
Trader Joes packaged Cauliflowerets
2 tablespoons Kraft FF Caesar Italian Salad Dressing -- 0 Points
1 serving Trader Joes (frozen) Shepherd's Pie -- 4 Points
1 ear White Corn on the Cob -- 1 Point
1 cup steamed Green Beans -- 0 Points
TOTAL DINNER POINTS: 5 Points
WATER INTAKE: 16 ounces

Total Fat (50 grams):16 grams
Saturated Fat (15 grams): 4 grams
Carbohydrates (180 - 220 grams): 210 grams
Cholesterol (300 milligrams): 88 milligrams
Sodium (500 - 2,400 milligrams): 2,500 milligrams YIKES NOT GOOD :tomato:
Dietary Fiber (25 - 40 grams): 42 grams VERY GOOD :dc
Protein (50 - 90 grams): 84 grams
TOTAL WEIGHT WATCHER POINTS (24 Points): 22 Points :cheer:
TOTAL WATER INTAKE FOR THE DAY (64 - 80 ounces): 80 ounces


Blood Sugar @ 8 p.m. -- 101 (oral meds) -- FOR SOME REASON I COULDN'T POST THIS INFORMATION YESTERDAY EVENING ... that's why I am addiing it this morning ...

IN RESPONSE:

Beth: Hello there and thank you for stopping by ...

You know I don't know whether you would see I was gun shy ... but I have noticed over these past few years I AM PRONE TO CHANGE MY MIND ON SO MANY THINGS ... I now tend to weigh everything that I do .. lol maybe I have come to realize that jumping from the frying pan into the fire CAN BE DANGEROUS ... lol I am sure my father would be laughing ... because this is SOMETHING NEW IN MY MINDSET ....

We've always had pets .... primarily because when I was growing up my mother refused to have any animal in the house that would keep her from having a VERY CLEAN HOUSE ... that is one of the things where I differ from my mother's way of thinking to me ... IT WAS MORE IMPORTANT TO HAVE A HOME .. AND NOT WORRY ABOUT THE HOUSE ... in my mother's house you could have eaten off her hardwood floors .... lol I still have memories of my mother on her hands and knees cleaning and waxing those floors .. lol once she backed herself into a corner ... I know lol I shouldn't laugh BUT IT WAS VERY FUNNY .... now that my daughters are no longer home it is definitely easier to keep the house clean .. and the only reason I do clean IS TO KEEP ACTIVE ... otherwise lol I still have an EXTREME DISLIKE for house cleaning ...

I will definitely keep looking ... but as I said I can't take care of a puppy ... and as cute as small dogs are ... I am not a chihuahua type person ... thanks again for stopping by .. AND I AM HOPING that I will see on Thursday at our "I CAN" chat ... take care my friend .... have and make it a terrific weekend ...

slm: Thank you so much for stopping by to visit ... and I will continue to read with interest your progress on your weight loss journey ... have and make it a terrific weekend ......

Belinda aka Bell: Thanks for stopping by and welcome back ... so far I am very pleased with the Weight Watcher program ... imo it is a very sound program .. however I do have to monitor certain aspects of my nutritional needs .. and working with both can sometimes well .. can be frustrating for me ....

I am looking forward (lol as are many others) to seeing pictures from your wedding and I am sure you made a beautiful bride ... it's good to have you back .... and thank you for being you .... have and make it a terrific weekend ...

A loving and tremendous :hug: to each and every one of you who reads this Journal entry .. have and make it a terrific weekend ... AND KEEP MOVING FORWARD ... our goals ARE ACHIEVABLE .... I am as always, Monica

OK, I decided to come and post this in your journal. You know what you are a great influence. I made some chocolate walnut bars and well, i was going to just sneak a small piece to try and I thought, no, then I have to fess up to MOnica LOL> Thanks for being there and keeping an eye on me. YOu are doing so well, you have come a long way in the last 5 years that I am know you.

OK, I decided to come and post this in your journal. You know what you are a great influence. I made some chocolate walnut bars and well, i was going to just sneak a small piece to try and I thought, no, then I have to fess up to MOnica LOL> Thanks for being there and keeping an eye on me. YOu are doing so well, you have come a long way in the last 5 years that I am know you.


Hi Jeannette,

I am glad that you were honest enough to let me know what you were thinking of doing .... TO ME THAT MEANS A LOT .. it means you are really DETERMINED to achieve your personal goal for the coming week ....

We've known each other for a long time ... and shared many things .... I DON'T KNOW IF I EVER TOLD YOU HOW MUCH I ADMIRE YOU AND HOW TERRIFIC I THINK IT IS THAT YOU ARE CONSTANTLY STRIVING TO BETTER YOURSELF AS AN INDIVIDUAL AND FOR ACHIEVING YOUR EDUCATIONAL AND PERSONAL GOALS ....

LOL if I could turn back the clock .... omg I would definitely strive for more things .... but like you I realize THE ONLY WAY TO LOOK BACK IS TO LEARN AND KEEP MOVING FORWARD ...

That is why I know in my heart that with your determination as well as your focus on your commitment YOU WILL SUCCEED ...

I had better go and get a piece of candy myself because I feel my blood sugar dropping (otherwise known as The WAVE) .....

Make it a great day and have and make it a fantastic weekend. ..... I am as always, Monica :hug:

MONICA – I know exactly what you mean. Yesterday I woke up at 8:45am and it was only 34F here. Talk about a day when you just want to curl up in a blanket and lay right by the heater.
I agree with you their. Having to go outside to warm up doesn’t make much sense to me either.

I had a lot of energy to yesterday myself. I don’t know about you, but when I see how great the weather is I really get inspired. This week I’m really inspired to stick to my goals, as soon as I set some. I guess the weather can affect a persons mood.

How did you do with injecting less insulin yesterday morning? Did that seem to do the trick?

Looks like you worked up quite a storm yesterday with all of your house cleaning. All that works burns calories way to go!!!

I’m sorry to hear that Shorty and Suzee were tearing up the furniture. I know how that is. Our cat, Smokie, is terrible withI’m sorry to hear that Shorty and Suzee were tearing up the furniture. I know how that is. Our cat, Smokie, is terrible with scratching on the furniture. A couple years after we received him my mom had him declawed, but it’s still in his nature to try and scratch the furniture.

~ Katherine

Hi Monica, I was in the neighborhood and decided to drop in and say "HI":wave: I know how you feel about the sunshine. I feel like I have more energy when the sun is shining. The last couple of months we haven't had very many days that the was shining. The last 2 days we had lots of sunshine but the temps didn't get over 25 degrees. BRRRRRR.....I stay cold all the time. The heater runs constantly and it is like dollar signs coming out the vents.LOL:laugh: Anyway enjoy your good weather and I will dream of warmer climates and tropical islands. http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/16/16_6_13.gif (http://www.smileycentral.com/?partner=ZSzeb001_ZSzeb008)

Monday, January 17, 2005 -- 6 a.m. PST

Good Morning,

I've been up for a while (I woke up at 4:30 a.m.) been laying in bed .... and I just couldn't fall back to sleep ....

Today I have my doctor's appointment ... truthfully I am a little nervous ... not about my blood sugars because with the exception of Sunday (in the morning) my blood sugars have been at the low 100's ....

I am basically nervous about why my foot is swollen ... (left foot) and why only one foot and not both .... that's another thing about being a diabetic YOU BECOME SO MINDFUL OF EVERY THING ...

Well :shrug: no use about my worrying about it .... lol I keep telling myself that YET I AM WORRYING ABOUT IT .....

Although the appointment is at 10 this morning .... I want to take my shower and get the laundry started .... that way I will be able to get one household activity out of the way ...

After the appointment, I will be going to Trader Joes ... I need to get more milk, fresh fruit and vegetables .... and definitely MORE CARROTS ... as I was watching the Golden Globe Awards last night I was craving something ... so I finished about a half a bag of the baby carrots ... satisfied the munchies ... lol I was able to see some of the foods on the celebrities plates ... lol WONDER IF THEY WERE NOT LIKING THE MENU or more into the booze ... my gosh NOT A WATER BOTTLE WAS ON THE TABLE .... but plenty of champagne ...

Well I'd better go and make like a duck ..... make it a great day .... and I will be back later. I am as always, Monica :hug:

Thanks monica. Have a wonderful week, I should be in chat this week but starting next is when I st