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Jackie--thanks for sharring the sleeve info with us. As far as your anxiety about Courtney is concerned, sometimes it helps me to remember that there are some things in life that I can control, and other things that I can't. You really can't control Courtney--there is nothing more you can do. IF she has complications, you'll deal with it, but for now, worrying about all the worst case scenerios isn't going to prevent them from happening. We'll all just pray for a good outcome and remember that God is in control of what happens. When you feel the anxiety creeping in you need to go back to what you've learned about stress relief and relaxation techniques. Concentrate on slow deep breathing and identifying tension in your body and consciously relax it. Remember childbirth? (Yeah, I'm an OB nurse at heart). Just try to relax and go with the flow. Schedule a massage if you like that, or a pedicure--or find a Reflexologist! Go for a facial or a spa treatment and just concentrate on feeling the relaxation. I know it's easier said than done, but Courtney will be more relaxed about all of this if you are relaxed and confident. Hey Candice--how's The Itch? I'm thinkin better since you haven't said much. What finally worked? Well, as usual, I messed up a little today. One of my students brought in part of her wedding cake--she got married last Saturday. Naturally, I had to have a tiny slice. Then Mel wanted ice cream after supper, so I had a small vanilla cone. All in all, a better day than the last week, but not as good as I planned :biggrin: Kari, Karla: Time to check in. Candice: you too!

Karla--I don't know if that is what actually happens, but it does seem a possibility. Sounds like a trip to your fill doctor is in order. You're chew, chew, chewing--right? Have a great day, everyone. Kari--today's the first day. . . Karla and I are watching you!

OK,Kari and Karla--It's you and me: -20 by Christmas. We know what we gotta do, now just do it. We've got a lot of inspiration here--no excuses. For me, it's going to mean no snacking or adult beverages when I get home from work, and back to basics at supper time and beyond. I've got some challenges comming up. Tim's still here, and we're having a party next Sunday before he leaves. Parties=food, but there's always something. No more! Look at Candice--once she got serious, the pounds are comming off. Look at Jackie--doing liquids with her DD. We can do anything they can do. Look at Janet, and OMG--look at Phyl! Everyone else here has their own deamons, so we can get off our butts and fight ours too. Are you with me? I don't hear you--ARE YOU WITH ME?

Jackie--Fabulous pic! Good for you! I am so impressed that you're doing the liquid diet with Courtney. With that kind of support, she'll do well no matter what. She's a lucky girl for sure. Guess what everyone?! Andy and Penny called this afternoon to ask us if we could watch Cora for awhile while they went shopping for a new stove. Of course, I said "Yes!" Well, when they got back, Andy asked Mel if he'd make Margritas, but he made a point of saying that Penny didn't want one--just him. Yup! Looks like Cora's going to be a big sister in May!!! I'm so happy--I have tears in my eyes as I'm telling you. They don't want anyone else here to know till after she goes to the dr in a couple of weeks, but they said I could tell my LBT friends.

Steph, I can relate to your situation is so many ways. I was always the bad guy and my (always out doing something else) DH was the good guy. DS #2 had "issues" several years ago and it all came down to my bad parenting--emotional abuse he claimed. He was very good (yeah, he's a psychologist now) and managed to convince his younger sister that mom's rules were overly restrictive and she had good reasons to be uncommunicative and lie. Oh, yes, thoes sweet little babies. . . And DH? He had nothing to say. Just shrugged his shoulders. So yeah, compared to him, I guess I would appear aggressive. I'm still angry about all of that. Hang in there, Steph. I'm on your side. Thankfully, I do have two other kids whos psyches I didn't dammage so much, and I have good relationships with them today. Wow, this site is therapeutic. Speaking of therapy. . . I have a friend who is working on obtaining national certification as a Reflexologist. She gave me a treatment yesterday and it was wonderful! I felt so relaxed afterwards and I slept great last night--there's gotta be something to it. I get to have two more treatments--both on Fridays after work. If I feel as good next time, I might be hooked. Once she gets certified, she's going to teach it, so I might learn how to do it. If that happens, I'll give you guys treatments next time we get together. OK--guess it's time to get going. Like I said, I'm going to work today. Andy (DS#1--Cora's daddy) is comming with me and we're going to work on some computer issues--it's great having my own personal tech support! Then I'm going to bring him home and go over to help Jen. I dont know if working in a bakery is such a good idea--kinda like an alcoholic bartender. This could turn out very badly.

Karla--that's just too funny! Do it and see what happens! Sounds like you guys need to be sure you have an AED on thoes hikes. Phyl--You're beginning to sound like the Energizer Bunny--you just keep going and going. . . The people at Sky Valley are not going to believe that you're the same woman! What fun you are going to have this winter!! Janet--I'm with you. If something happenes to Mel, I'm pretty sure I would have your attitude. Men are nice to have around when there's a spider to kill, but the rest of the time--well, what's the point? So what are you doing this weekend? How are the kitties? and Andrew? is he getting ready to move out on his own? Candice-- Sound's like Peter's really getting into the RV. I bet you'll be upgrading sooner rather than later. And what is he saying about "The Dress?" Steph, Still thinking about you and DS. Hope things are OK. Seems to me you started posting an update and had to stop abruptly? or was that someone else. Jackie--I went through the same thing with my DD who is 22 now. We're still not close by any means--and I don't think we ever will be. Oh well. . . Keep us posted as to her progress--How wonderful that she can do this so young! OK, It's Friday night and I'm pooped. Tomorrow I'm going back into work to get caught up a little, and then I promiced to help Jen wash dishes. She has a bakery and does wedding cakes. She has 4 weddings tomorrow, and is feeling overwhelmed so I promiced to help out for awhile. Jen's a single mom--I babysit for her little girl, Margo, once in awhile.

Jackie-I'm so happy to see you back here! Sorry, i gotta run right now, but I saw you pop in, and I just want to say Welcome Back! Please post again soon and let us know how we can help. You've missed a lot, but no matter--youi're back and that's what's important!

Candice, LOVE LOVE LOVE the dress! You look beautiful! You could do the long dress for the wedding and change the hemline for the reception. I like it best without the shawl--it's perfect! OMG--you look sooo good! Just remember, it's not fair to outshine the bride--be careful! I'm serious!!!

Hi--a quick note Great to hear from you, Marcy. I'm still hoping to lose the last 20 and then have TT. I did have my eyelids done this summer and permanent eye liner. I am delighted with that. Karla, I ditto what every one else said about meeting the men. So what if it doesn't work out? You gotta kiss a lot of frogs before you find your prince. Don't have big expectations--just enjoy it for what it is. Candice--keep me laughing with your emails! You were in rare form today! Grandpa's big fish--it took me a coupla minutes. I had to send the maxi pad one to Mindy--she works for Kimberly Clark (Kotex) The MOB dress sounds perfect--can't wait to see a pic! Phyl--I just don't even know what to say--you are Superwoman! I think the idea of meeting in Washington next July is perfect--as long as Karri and Steph can make it too. Janet--How are you liking your new look? Do people notice? I kinda liked the "old" look--it was a distinguishing characteristic, but if it makes you feel better--go for it girl! BTW: How is our little Karri? Karri--how you doin, kiddo? I've been very bad and will have to pay penance. Made lasagna for Tim yesterday. Thankfully, he and Mindy are on thier way to visit Luke and Nicole and they took the leftovers with them. The pot-luck on Monday was the best one we've ever had--I succumed and ate like an out of control bandster. In other words, smaller portions of lots of no-good, very bad things, and even a few seconds. BAD BAD BAD ME. But know what? I'm as angry and depressed as I was last week.

Steph must have made it to the finish line cuz Phyl's got a pic posted on FB of a pretty happy looking Steph! No time to contemplate--gotta get to work. Pot-luck today--wish me well. I'm bringing a pork sourkraut casserole that ppl seem to like. My dad's on the way to the airport to pick up Tim (DS #2) I'll be at work when they get here

Hi Friends, I'm OK. Don't think another pill is the answer. I'm just in a louzy place at the moment, but I've been here before and I know that this too shall pass. One thing that I think would help would be to quit listening to political news. Sorry, but I don't believe a word Obama said the other night, and I am becomming more and more cynical about where all of this is leading. I need to remember that God is in control of that, and I just need to concentrate about what I can control--like what I put in my mouth! So, I'm going to turn off the radio or TV when this stuff comes on and see if that helps my mood at all. Karri--I'm proud of you for not pushing yourself to the point where you caused yourself more damage. I think you've made a real breakthrough, and will be healthier for it. Phyl--as stated previously, you certanly are an inspiraton to us all! There's no comparison between you and my mom. Granted, you're 15-ish years younger, but you've got such a good attitude! Thanks for being such a great role model! Janet, GF--me too--I so wish you were closer so that we could shop and do stuff together! I just love your bluntness. You're like my best friend who died 15 years ago--she could put a person in their place in such a nice way that no one ever got angry. She had your heart, and did all kinds of things for people very quietly--never calling attention to herself. I loved her so! Karla--you sound more upbeat now that school has started. Hope things continue to go well. What's going on with that oldest daughter of yours? Did she have any idea that this was comming? I sure hope she will be able to collect unemployment, and that she finds another, better job soon! Is she married? Any kids? Will she be able to relocate if necessary? Sure sounds like a terrible way to handle things! Candice--I'm not forgetting you! One more month. You are going to be one hot mother of the bride! Pics--be sure to post pics! Any improvement in the work situation? How are the quilts comming--did you finish the one you were working on when we were there? I think I mentioned that I ordered a Hawaiian quilt table runner. It came a couple of weeks ago and it's georgous. But I'm afraid to keep it on my dining room table b/c I'm afraid the sun will fade it too much. It has plackets on the back, so I'm looking for a place to hang it and just put it on the table when people come over. Steph, Still praying. . .how are things going? Things with your son will take a very long time. Be patient--try to see the big picture. I pray that years from now you will see a reason for all of this, and praise God for how He worked things out for both of you. His ways are beyond our understanding--that's for sure. I have another friend who is going through a divorce, has a special needs 20-year-old son (who I helped her deliver!), and just found out last week that she lost her job. Enough already--right? Sometimes, life just sucks, but, like she's says, you gotta trust God to work it all out. For some reason, several people have emailed me about the band in the last couple of weeks. My name must be on some list somewhere--anyone else getting that?

OH Phyl, About the Ibuprofen: Is that something we can use? I thought that Tylenol (acetaminophen) was the only NSAID that was OK? Personally, I think it depends--some people have no problem, others are more sensitive. Got to check your Band surgeon's recommendations.

OK, I'm back and I had my salad and a Bloody Mary, so I'm calmer now. I feel so out of it. You guys just keep going, and I feel like such a loser--and not in the "good" sense of the word. What's up with that? I feel like I'm just keeping up, and never really a part of anything. I try to talk to DH, but he's just in his own world of cars, work, and things he feels he has to do. It's like I just don't exsit unless he or the kids need something. I got a nasty email from a clinical mentor today complalining b/c she doesn't feel "supported!" Seesh, she's never around when I come to visit, and I've waited for 2 WEEKS to hear if she'll accept a student or not--then she complains that she doesn't get enough notice!She wants a month-- I gave her over 5 weeks, What's the problem? I sent her email to trash--I can find another site, and she's probablly the 5th person in that position since I've been doing this--she'll be gone in another year. OK, deep breath! In--out--we've all got issues. . . So this weekend is pretty quiet except that Tim will be comming home from CA on Monday for 2 weeks. Unfortuantely, I won't have a lot of free time, and he and Mindy want to visit Luke in MN next weekend. But it will be good to have him home for awhile. Had such a sad dream the other night: Dreamed that Luke was 4 years old (he's 24)--I could hear his little boy voice--and I was telling him "Dont' grow up." I must sure miss my babies! Steph--cherish them--you won't have them for long. All of this was happening in a white house with white walls and nothing on them. I felt closed in by the blandness of it all. Freud would have a field day with that! OK, so there's where I'm at. Not losing, probably gaining--who knows? I don't have time to obsess about it.

Hi--still around, just beyond busy. Just got home from work craving a salad--knew we had some lettuce, fresh tomatoes. . . Nah, DH ate all the lettuce! What's with that? He can eat whatever he wants, and he chooses the last of my lettuce !$!@# For crying out loud! Guess I got to go to the store and buy more--think I'll pick up some Long Island Iced Tea mix while I'm at it. He'll be gone all night anyway. So I'm off yet again, but one thing before I go: Karla--your pic is georgeous! Not at all what I expected either--are you sure you're not in your 40's cuz you sure don't look 50-something! What a looser that Tuna-guy was! OK, I'm off to the store to get a stupid head of lettuce. geez. . .

Phyl--sorry for the dealy in responding. I think you're doing great! The pain is to be expected. No one ever appreciates it until it happens to them. I know it sucks, but you gotta deal with it and remember that it will get better. Air is good for the incision. You know to keep it clean and dry. Hang in there, hon, yo're gunna be OK! This too shall pass! Hugs and more hugs if that helps! Come on Janet--what's up? Pics--we want pics!

Kara--I might be your twin--both German and Sweedish grandparents! Oh, and Dutch too. Who knew?

Hi all! Just a quick check in to let you know that I'm lurking. You all sound good! Kari's back and happy--yeah! Candice is on track--and reaping the benefits--173? WOW!! Janet--what a kind hearted thing to do! So like you to think of ways to help! Step's going to enjoy her weekend which she well deserves after the crappy things that she's been going through. Karla's back at work and getting regular pay checks. I actually think the vitamins would help, and $50 is not too much to pay. No harm in giving them a try for a month. Phyl's pain in under control, she sleeps well, and the healing has begun--great report from PT! Denise, Karri? Sorry, can't remember :biggrin: at the moment, and no time to go back and look. What busy lives we lead! The weekend will not be relaxing. From what I hear, Tim's OK in California, so that's good. Luke and Nicole got their stuff all packed up. Andy flew to MA on Tuesday and drove the U-Haul back here--got back last night. Luke & Nicole drove through Ontario and are stopping for a family reunion in Sarnia (I think). They should be here Friday night. Then we all have a wedding (my nephew who I delivered 24 years ago) in chicago on Satruday. Then back here Sat. night to leave Sunday for Minneapolis. I've got to make reservations yet as we are comming back on Monday and back to work on Tuesday. Somewhere in there Mindy's comming home too for a different wedding here. OMG! But at least Luke and Nicole have an apartment in MN, so we don't have to keep their dog! In any event, the only thing that is not good is my eating. No excuses--I deserve to be slapped. In spite of all the good things, I am depressed--it's just really hard to keep going. I do like my job, but I just don't want to get up every morning and have to go to work and try to cram everything else (like LBT) inbetweem. OK, no pity party here. I need to find a hotel and then go to Andy's to see the waterfall he built today (he took the week off) and watch the last Packer pre-season game. Love you all--my bestest friends!

Steph, You're doing what you gotta do. Kids do what they do regardless of the parenting. Take care of yourself and know that we're here for you. Candice--Happy Birthday to you! I wasn't thinking when I checked in this morning. Hope good things happened today. Did you have to work? Blessings your way, girl! Phly--thanks for the status update! Keep 'em comming whenever you can! Man, you sure have a lot of well-wishers of FB--You are one popular lady!! That's all the time I have now. Janet--you're not forgotten--NEVER! How'd the tatoo removal go? How are the babies? Are you adjusting to the new office at all?

Phyl--Narcotics tend to excerbate depression as well. I have a feeling that this week will be a bad one for you. It's OK if you don't feel like posting. We understand. We just miss you, that's all. Oh Steph, you are doing all the right things. Counseling is hard work; it's not the pannecia that everyone thinks it is, but it's all we have (pesides prayer). I'm glad that you have some positive things going on with the bike rally and walk--good, productive things to put your energies and frustrations into! I've had "tuna" exeriences too--ugh! Sometimes it keeps me awake all night! I've learned not to eat anything after 6 pm or I pay for it all night long. I'd convert in a minute if I had the money! Denise--my advice would be to rest your stomach--do a day or two of liquids. Hate to say it, but you'll probably have to stay home with DS. I know it sucks, but if you can't trust him, you need to keep a close eye on him. remember, I had three of these (DS's)--all different, but all problems in one way or another. Speaking of DS--got a phone call yesterday: "Well, just wanted you to know that I'm OK. . .Yeah, the plane was at 13,000 feet (2 miles) when I steped out of it. . . Yeah, Nicole was the last to jump. . ." OMG~!!! At least they called AFTER they jumped! Then another call from another DS in Pasadena: "Just want you to know that I'm not evacuating yet. . .Yeah, I can see the fires from my apartment. . .It's surreal. . .the mountains are steaming. . ." Yeah, you never stop worring about them!

Candice, Prednisone will cause you to retain Water too--don't be dissapointed if you're up on your birthday. It's only temporary. What a cutie you were 30 years ago (and still are, BTW)! I gotta tell you, I was NEVER that thin. For my wedding, I dieted down to a size 13, and that was the last time I saw that number. I did lose 100 pounds about 15 years ago but gained it all back plus. Carla--this is the place to vent! I do my share of it. Did I tell you that I did order one of the table runners from one of the Hawaiian sites you posted? Ate poorly at the party. Never mind the details--not good. Tense--my mom was there and she does not interact with anyone else but me and dd--and then only if we approach her first. Lots of attitude. That, of course, makes me miss most of what else is going on with everyone else. So relieved when she left, but by then I had filled my stomach with empty calories. (see, I'm venting again!) Phyl--check in--nothing on FB either--you sleeping from all Earl's PT and pain meds?

Candice--good job on the weight loss--very happy for you. Janet--Not so much, but you're on it, so that IS good! Quit hogging all the heat--would you? It's less than half of that here--about 54 this am--and windy! They'll be no working outside today. Think I might go back to bed and pull up the covers. . . Hey Phyl--How 'bout thoes Packers? Awesome first half last night--I've got Aaron Rogers on my fantasy team. Was really impressed with a pregame interview with Aaron Kampman! Gonna be rooting for him too. How are your Seahawks looking? Chin up, Karla--once you get back it's not so bad. Got a week and half in, and summer is a distant memory now. (The November weather helps too :frown: At least there's some $$ comming in. Still praying for you, Steph. Hope life's under control. Cora's B-day was Thrusday. Big party Sunday. I want to post some pics of her Chocolate Pudding Party at Day-care, but I forgot how! They're on my hard drive. . . Ugh, there just arent' enough creases in my brain anymore! I am trying really hard to keep up with all your posts, even if I can't always respond. Life's crazy again.

Hey--remember me? As I was reading through the last couple day's posts, I laughed and cried. You guys are so honest and awesome! I love you all so much!!! I took a quick trip to DD's to be with her while she had some surgery to remove some skin cancer--very rare in a 22 year old. Good thing I insisted on going in with her b/c they were going to do surgery on the wrong site. I got the doctor to take another look at his notes and he agreed with me and they ended up doing surgery on the opposite side than she signed the permit for! OMG! There's a law suit in the making. . . Oh, you guys! Candice--Look, Peter will come this far "south." Please, please come ASAP. I don't know about growing your hair. I really like it the way you have it now, but I know all about the need to try something new. So are you going to take him up on quitting our job? I would in a heart beat if DH would support me! Janet and Carla--I do understand about being all on your own. Why do you think I keep DH around? Life's still better with him that without him, but sometimes I wonder. . . I admire you so much--you have no idea. But I don't get any support from DH--really. He is in his own world, and while it's nice that he takes care of the car and shovles the snow, sometimes I wonder if it's worth it when he complains about bills or money I spend. The grass really isn't any greener on this side of the fence. BTW, is it Carla or Karla? I'm sorry, but I missed that. And if your daughter needs any help with nursing--I'm the person! Math--no problem. I can help! Steph, You've got me curious: What's the story about Michael and how you got help? Sounds like a "God" thing? Kari--hey kiddo--time to check in with all your "moms." Phly--saw your pic on facebook--looking good. Again, I'm so happy that your surgery went well. What a gift you have been given! oops, phone! It's my mom

I can't eat yogurt either, whereas ice cream is usually no problem. Kudos to you Janet for going to the gym even if you're tired--not this kid. I'll go for groceries pretty soon, then it's couch potato till bedtime. I know, I know. . . I don't know what it would take to get me motivated. Sure hope you can find a way to leave that job, Candice. At this point, its just not worth it to have to deal with all the nonesense anymore. It's too bad that one person can make things so miserable, but so often that's the way it is. As for the yeast infection: Get to a drug store and get some Monistat or Lotrimin--or call your PCP and get a script! And no messing around until it clears up!!! (Bottle brush!!--lol) Loved the quilts, Carla! I actualy had been to two of thoes sites before. They are amazing--my mom did two of them--one's a wall hanging and the other is a little larger. Like I said, they're in a box in her closet along with lots of other treasures. . . Prayers, Phyl! Hope you're able to update us soon. Hard to believe the day is finally here! Love you!!

If I had it to do over, knowing what I now know, I think I'd choose the sleeve simply because it's less maintenance. My band is still a bit too tight, but I'm not about to pay another $300+ to drive 2 hours to get it adjusted, and then do it all again if that's not right. Don't get me wrong, I'm glad I was able to have the band, but if I had an opportunity to have it converted, I'd jump on it. Getting into cheese puffs today. Bad idea--they're going to join Janet's moonpies! BTW: Still wearing a sweatshirt! Love you guys!

The house is quiet, beds are stripped, towels in the wash, on my second cup of coffee and things starting to get back on track--for a little while. Next week will bring more caos, but for today it's all good. I know if I could pay for PS--or someone would offer to pay for me--I'd lose the last 15 in no time at all! No soda--no problem! Wore my Canada sweatshirt last night--feels like fall around here :biggrin: How're the kitties doing today? What are you going to do with them? I actually would take one if I could--not that I'm looking for a kitty, but I do prefer them to dogs. Looks like we're going to have Luke and Nicole's (DS#3 and DIL) beagle for awhile. They have to be in Minneapolis the day after Labor day (Sept 7, Candice and as of right now, they don't have an apartment. We said we'd store their stuff, including Twinkle. . . Still praying for you, Steph, and you too Phyl. I keep looking for your updates. Janet--tell Karri that we miss her. Glad to know that she's keeping in touch with you and all's well. Karla, You should post some pics of your quilts sometime. My mom quilts too, but no one can ever ask her to make a specific one. She only does what she's "inspired" to do, and most of them are boxed up in her closet and only hauled out on occasion. Once in a while she'll give one away--I do have several--but they're for display, not use. My DD desperately wants a Hawaiian quilt for her bed. My mom has one, but has never offered to give that one up. If you or Candice ever get the urge, I can tell you what colors she would like and even pay a goodly amount! Although I could never attempt to pay what you deserve for all the work that I know goes into them! Oh the other hand, if you know of someone or somewhere to look for one, I'd sure appreciate it! Well, the towels are done and it's time to switch loads and remake some beds. Like Janet says: CBL!