ljv52

The only veggies I eat are green beans (cooked well), squash and salad veggies (lettuce, spinach, shredded carrots, onions, tomatoes, etc.). I can eat brocolli if it's cooked soft -- which I prefer anyway -- I was never a fan of crisp cooked veggies -- I like mine cooked. I make green beans with onions and vinegar with a few bacon bits tossed in -- tastes good and it solves the delema of putting butter on them. I take a vitamin everyday and don't worry too much about how many veggie I eat. I go in spurts where i eat more veggies at times than at others. Yes, I agree, it's easy to get veggies in with eating homemade soup. I use fat free salad dressings and I make low fat dip for veggies out of light sour cream. I do enjoy some raw veggies with dip occasionally. Lori, whatever you decide to do for NYE I hope you enjoy it. Apples, hope that stone passes soon, thinking about you. DH and I also went to lunch and then stopped by and visited at my office -- it was a good outing -- I needed to get out. Decided to make an appt. for a fill for next Wed. instead of tomorrow -- supposed to get snow tomorrow so hopefully next week weather will be better. Besides I want to get my decorations down tomorrow. Hope everyone has a great night. CBL. Cheri, not to worry, we enjoy it when you get verbose -- you have lots of interesting things to say and you always give good advice. Linda

Hi all. Apples, hugs, hope you're doing okay today with those stones. Janet, you enjoy your day of rest -- you deserve to lay around in your pjs if that's what you want to do -- you've been so busy the past several months. Proud of you for continuing at the gym. I wish I could get back to my regular routine especially since I ate those three days -- I'm lso worried about what the scale will say. I decided to wait until next Tues. to weigh just so I don't get discouraged. Good news is I called my surgeon and he's okayed me to return to water aerobics as long as I am very careful. So, I will go tomororw afternoon with DH. Yeah. That should help me feel a little healthier. Went to therapy this a.m. -- it is too easy for me -- I wish they would/could challenge me a bit more -- they say it's just cause I'm in such good shape and that's why it seems easy for me. Then we went to store (again, I swear we go to grocery store constantly -- there's always something we need). Got some great bargains -- Christmas cards for $1 which were originally $10.00 -wow! I'm so cheap -- lol. Got some little flavored coffees for 50 cents that were $2.99 originally -- makes a full pot, so good deal as well. And, it was good -- white chocolate eggnog flavor. A little sweet, but a nice change of pace -- not soemthing I'd want constantly but a nice dessert coffee. Arlene, I'm with you - I'm a cheese lover and I could just eat it forever. LOL. We must quit with that however. CBL, someone's on the phone. Linda

Hi everyone! Apples, hugs on the stones, sorry you are suffering, saying prayers for you and hoping the stones will be passed by morning. Oneday so glad you and family are not suffering any consequences from the accident. Hopefully the car is already fixed or close to being fixed. Eva, sounds like you had a super busy day yesterday -I haven't gotten to see Avitar yet but I do want to see it. Previews look fabulous. Janet, proud of you for throwing out the fudge. I went back to my regular food yesterday but have been so hungry. Thinking I may need another fill -- I just checked and I've lost 14 lbs. since my last one so I think I probably could use another small one. Like Cheri, I had a lot of fat in my stomach (rather than other parts of my body) and I think as I lose I still need fills. I plan to call tomorrow and see if they can get me in on Wednes. which is the regular fill day. Our weather looks good, so it would be a good day for the 80 miles each way trip. Laura, glad your dad is doing well with chemo--hope he gets his wish and gets the tube out and does swim every day -- the water will feel so good to him. I tried to call surgeon today to see when I can go back to water aerobics - my incision is completely healed so I'm hoping soon. They took today off as part of their holiday so will call tomorrow. Cleaned the bathrooms yesterday and kitchen today. Am hoping I can talk DH into getting out the Christmas boxes so I can get the Christmas decorations put away in the next day or two. We put them up at Thanksgiving so I am more than ready to get them down and get the house completely clean again. Harder to clean with all the Christmas stuff around. Lori, good going on the bend on the knee -- glad you are doing so well. I have therapy tomorrow -- looking forward to seeing how they advance me this week -- I'm anxious to get back to something aerobic -- hopefully I can maybe ride a recumbant bike this week -- they said "maybe". I hope so. I want to get back to my exercise routine. Our NY tradition (being basically German/Austrian) was pork, Kielbasa and sauerkraut -- for prosperity and luck. So I usually make that -- I used to always have big NYE parties at my house and cook and serve the buffet right at midnight -- I miss those days -- I should start doing some of that again now that I'm pretty well reestablished (we've lived here five years already) with lots of friends. Maybe next year. I have converted many people who thought they didn't like sauerkraut -- I cook it a long time in a slow temperature (300) with lots of garlic and smokey paprika. Yum. I usually make homemade piergies to go with it as well. So good, but so fattening. It's weird how our entire lives revolved around food. I talked to my sister yesterday. She's never had a weight problem and has never been much of a cook or really cared much about food. I asked her about her Christmas day dinner and she said, "well, I made a prime rib but really didn't do anything special -- she made instant mashed potatoes (yuck) and frozen green beans and that was that! She baked nothing for the holidays and they have no plans for NYE. I wish I were more like her in how I approach food. I was sort of disgusted with myself this year cause I just ate for 3 days straight over Christmas -- so like Janet and Cheri, I do worry about gaining it all back -- it would be so easy just to eat and keep on eating all my favorite foods. But when I went back to my healthy eating, it was a relief and I am happy with it again. So that's good. Well, gotta get some sleep. Have a good one everyone. Linda

Apples, hope you had a wonderful Christmas with your (extended) family today! So glad you have them in your life. Lori, you are amazing -- trying on clothes with a new knee -- that is amazing -- can't believe you are doing that!! But what terrific bargains -- what a difference a year makes!! Julie, I hope that shoulder starts to feel better -- you probably over did with cooking/baking or decorating for the holidays. Hopefully it will settle down a bit now. Laura K. you made me laugh about our new body parts. What restriction are you at now? I had some trouble when I got to 6.0 -- but now I've finally seemed to work through that. I didn't pb too much -- just had to really slow down and really chew, chew chew or I had problems -- really with any food . I don't think I need another fill -- I think I'm at my sweet spot -- at least I hope so. I don't much like that feeling when things don't go down well. Phyll, sorry about your DS#2. It's hard, but you gotta stay strong. We had to move DS out of here a little over a week ago and that was hard but we must make these kids fend for themselves or it will never change. I worry about what will happen to them when we're gone -- I mean who are they going to ask for money then? Who are they going to try to live with then? So maybe if you think of it that way it'll be easier to say no. My DSD said the other day, "all I need next year is a new mattress and bed for my daughter." I said, "well, you're working, so you can buy it yourself." She looked at me like I was "crazy". LOL. Had a good day -- went ot Walmart -- I needed a few things -- bananas, etc. got a few Christmas goodies at good prices -- I usually buy my cards after Christmas. DH got a nice jacket for 50% off. My hip was a little sore after walking that store, but still doing good -- probably does it good. I needed to get out of the house. It was a gorgeous day here -- clear and sunny -- nice blue skies. It was pretty with all the new snow on the ground. Had a couple inches more over night so it was pretty. Shrinkinshan, you're in Bandster Hell which is after your swelling goes down but before your first fill. You've just gotta use willpower during this time and it's tough, but you'll do just fine. Just be sure to get enough protein as that seems to be the most satisfying. I sometimes found having a hot cup of tea or coffee when i got really hungry helped me feel less hungry -- or have a healthy snack -- jello, etc. We are all here pulling for you and we know you'll be just fine. No more news on the wedding. I'm just praying they won't find anywhere to have the reception -- I'm so mean. I talked to my sister today and she says they haven't made any further decisions and my neice is in St. Louis until the second at a youth chrisitian convention. I really hope I get to come, so don't count me out just yet. I need to go to Des Moines and go to Victoria Secret and get prooperly fitted for a bra too. I'll have to make plans to do that. Hope everyone else is having a great day - I'm back to eating my healthy food today -- struggling a bit as all that rich and unhealthy food sure tasted good over the past 3 days. It would be so easy to eat more of it. Staying strong. Lori, your family is weird, sorry, but they are. I feel so badly for you -- you are such a warm and sweet person -- it is their loss, trust me. You do not deserve that kind of treatment. I'm glad you are not letting it affect you like it has in the past. Glad your parents are leaving so you can finally just relax and recover from your surgery. Take care everyone. Laura -- hope you're having a good day -- thinking of you and your family. Linda

HI everyone. Can't sleep -- DH is snoring (loudly) so thought I'd get up and catch up. GD here until tonight, so was busy with DGD all day - playing Candyland and Chute and Ladders. It was fun. Had a few inches of snow today -- not bad, just cold tonight. Supposed to be dry for next several days. Apples, I bet your roads were bad, glad you made it back home safe and sound. Laura, glad you made it safely to NC -- bet Nelson is really enjoying his first snow experience. Funny -- must share that DGD decided she wanted to eat snow today -- so we filled up a bowl and she ate it and then kept asking for more -- I think she ate a total of 5 bowl fulls before we said, "enough". It was pretty funny. She was eating it with a fork also -- I didn't get a chance to grab the camera darn it. Melissa glad you are doing okay -- sorry you and DH are sore - hopefully it will pass in a day or so. Arlene, sorry about your friend -- I don't understand people like that. Lori, hope you get to shop tomorrow -- news says there's some good deals out there. Sounds like Janet got some good deals also. I have no $$ to shop right now on disability - plus I don't need anything. Eva, your ravoli sounded delish, but yes, that is a lot of work. How were the tamales-- can't remember who was making those -- I bet they were wonderful too. Janet, loved your pics -- DGD is so cute -- your gingerbread pjs cute as well. Well, better try to get some sleep. CBL. Linda

Hi Dee, Yes, I had my left hip replaced on Dec. 8 -- so not quite 3 weeks ago. I was also very scared before surgery, but trust me, the surgery went better than I ever dreamed it would and I'm sure yours will also. I had much much less pain immediately after surgery than I did before surgery. I have suffered for many years -- in fact my leg was "frozen" and I've been unable to put on my own socks or shoes on that leg for over 3 years. My surgeon said my hip was just bone on bone -- I had several bone spurs -- so trust me when I say I had a lot of pain for many years. My surgery was at 11:00 a.m. on Tues. and by 7:00 a.m. Wednes. I was up and walking with a walker. I was able to sit in a chair all day which was much more comfortable (in my opinion) than laying in bed. Our house is a split foyer which means we have 14 steps from the garage up to the main part of the house. From the front door there are seven steps -- and the master bedroom/bath is on same level as garage. I was very worried (needlessly) about those steps. I've been able to go up and down the steps very easily. I stopped using the walker after just a few days and am only using the cane when I leave the house (in ice and snow). I do my physical therapy 3 times a day and before surgery did the recommended exercises three times a day. I am certain that my losing so much weight and consistent exercise helped strengthen my muscles and made the surgery much easier for me. Last Tues. I made 7 batches of cookies. Christmas Eve I cooked for several hours and made a huge Christmas Day dinner for my family. I couldn't believe I was able to do so much so quickly after surgery. I hope this will help you to not fear your surgery as much. I have to tell you that next to lap band surgery, it was the best decision I've made. Good luck and let me know how you're doing and if you have any more questions, please let me know. Linda

Melissa, hugs on the car accident, but glad the car took all the damage instead of you and your family. Hopefully you will all stay okay and no whiplash!!!!!! Lori, we were posting at same time. You are doing great with your knee - can't believe you are even thinking about shopping already. I can't believe I was able to make two huge meals -- I feel great -- my new hip is wonderful -- I can't believe how much I'm able to do. Cheri, your gifts sounded great. Linda

Hi and Merry Christmas to all. So happy to see and hear that you all had nice Christmases. Ours was wonderful -- had our annual everyone's favority appetizer for dinner last night and today had ham, pork loin with bernaise sauce, homemade mac & cheese (instead of scalloped potatoes), corn casserole, pineapple casserole and apple salad. All delish. So wonderful how little I can eat - but feel very satisfied with the little bit -- it feels very wicked to eat all that rich (but albeit delicious) food. Glad to be done with it for another year. Sent some food up to a neighbor whose husband is in last stages of cancer -- so sad for her - they never had children so it is especially lonely and difficult for her at this time. Sent food home with the kids (they appreciate it so much) and froze the ham bone to make split pea soup in the next week or two. Arlene, I will not weigh either for at least a week - and I'm truly looking forward to eating "my food" again -- this stuff is okay, but not healthy for every day. By the way, I finally found some steel cut oats - will make it this week and try it for first time. After all the talk here am happy to finally find it. Posting a few pics here of happy DGD opening presents - it was very exciting - they spent the night -- the little turd would NOT go to sleep last night -- too excited I expect. We did not get nearly the storm they predicted - it was all around us - but we hardly got anything here in our little town (lucky). Most of the churches canceled midnight services last night and they wouldn't have needed to. CBL. Linda

Hello too all. I am behind on reading, so will post now and read later. Had a busy couple of days. Had my post surgical visit and had my staples removed -- 32 of them -- my incision is quite huge. That went well. He has me out of work until he sees me again on 1-18. I have some bad news. I may not be able to come in February. I will not know for sure for a few weeks yet. Here is my problem -- with our disability insurance you must use all existing vacation/sick time before it will kick in. This really sucks because while I'm out I also do not accrue any vacation/sick leave which means I will have zero when I go back to work. I only get 6 hours per month vacation and 2 hours sick. My neice got engaged recently and has now decided to get married July 24 of next year -- we were hoping they'd wait an extra year. They live in Florida and wedding will be in Florida and I of course will need to take time off work -- and will want at least a week since all my extended family will attend (son, brother, cousins I haven't seen in years, neices, nephews, etc.). Anyway, the problem is that I will only have 36 hours of accrued vacation time by July 24 -- so I cannot take the extra two days in February -- I'm very upset as I was so looking forward to coming and meeting everyone. IF my neice changes her mind and decides to hold off on the wedding I would still be able to come. She and her fiance are supposed to be making a final decision over the next several weeks -- they are looking at where to have wedding, etc. I will be happy to pay my portion of the room because I said I'd be coming - I'm just very bummed out about it -- I'll let you all know as soon as I can. My doctor told me I can do whatever I want as long as I don't fall down. I don't have to use either cane or walker in the house -- DH was bugging me and telling me I HAD to use them -- I felt completely comfortable using nothing -- I have no balance issues, no fear of falling -- much less pain than before surgery. I will use the cane when I leave the house (on ice and snow of course) but other than that have been just walking around. I forgot to ask when I could return to water aerobics so will call next week -- I 'm hoping I might be able to start going soon. My incision looks great. I got the H1N1 shot yesterday -- there was a free clinic in town and everyone was eligible -- so I got one. No problem -- my arm never bothered me -- no problems so far. I baked some cookies yesterday with DGD for her to take with her to her doctor's appt in Iowa City today - she got her monthly infusion of steriods -- so we made peanut bloassoms with the kisses in the middle. I roll mine in colored sugar so she was in charge of that and taking foil off kisses -- she ate quite a few -- LOL - that's half the fun. Then I just made a few drop cookies and my DH's favorite, pecan tarts (some call them tassies). I also made one batch of chocolate fudge. I spent today getting ready for tomorrow night -- we do all appetizers on Christmas Eve -- so today I got a head start on making some of them -- here's tomorrow's menu: Shrimp cocktail, sausage balls, cheese stuffed mushrooms, deviled eggs, little smokies wrapped in bacon and baked with brown sugar, dill pickles slathered with cream cheese and then wrapped in dried beef and then sliced (this is a great Iowa appetizer -- I never had these before moving here and they are delish), Pella bologna and cheese ball with crackers, veggies and dip. This is what we "always" have. LOL. Not very low cal. Then on Friday we are having ham, pork tenderloin, corn casserole, cheesy potatoes, broccoli salad, apple salad, rolls and all the appetizer leftovers. I usually make prime rib, but DH requested ham instead -- need to save some $$ as my disability money is only 60% of my regular salary). I decided today that I truly missed cheese this year and I plan to eat it (without guilt) until Sat. and then be done with it. LOL. I'm enjoying the holiday - DGD and kids will come and sleep over tomorrow night so we'll all be together to open presents Christmas morning. Supposed to have a terrible storm, so glad we'll all be safe under one roof with tons of food to eat. I'll CBL. Merry Christmas to all. Oh, I got an early Christmas gift when I weighed in on Tues -- I lost that 2 lbs. which puts me at 100 lbs. lost since I started last January -- I AM THRILLED to say the least. I was starting to worry it would never happen. LOL. Patience is necessary in this lapband world. Linda

Good morning everyone. Apples, forgot to congratulate you on completing harvest - so much stress for you at this time of the year! No wonder you PB'd! Are your boys coming home today? You mentioned family Christmas at your house today, not sure what you meant exactly. Had a bad day yesterday. Some times I just fall apart - things have been very stressful past several months and I had "one of those days". Needless to say it is not very pleasant and poor DH tries to ride the depression waves but it is not easy on him. Good news is that I have those "days" then I get over it as quickly as the doom and gloom comes. Doesn't happen often, but I can't blame PMS cause I don't have THAT problem anymore. Janet, good for you - I agree with Apples. I think that some times we just need to take care ofthat craving so that we can get over it and get back to our regular eating. I think part of it is all the temptation you have to endure at work -- it's so hard on you to say no CONSTANTLY -- it's so unfair (in many ways) but we also need to remember that a "little" is not going to "kill" us but I truthfully, I know we all panic cause we don't ever want to go back to our out of control eating as we had before. That's why we all need each other here, cause we are truly the only ones who understand how we really feel. I know DH tries, but he has no idea. DSS moved out yesterday -- this is not bad news, part of it is we encouraged it -- he just can't follow our rules -- getting sick with his diabetes and not taking readings or insulin was a deal breaker for me -- it's a shi!!!y time of year to do this, but he's gotta grow up and figure out how to take care of himself. I just don't think we are doing him any favors by allowing him to abuse his body as he does. Tough love truly is the hardest. I still worry, I still want to make it "all better" with a kiss and a hug. Laura, so glad you made your decision and yes, I agree, the men aren't nearly as sentamental about these things as we are -- he is such a great DH -- you are so blessed. It is so good for you to be with your mom and dad. Just hope the weather clears up -- I'm sure it will -- glad you aren't leaving for several days -- give them time to clear up that mess. Lori, hope you are doing great today and feeling good being home. I'm pretty much down to taking pain pill only at bed time -- I'm feeling really great. Apples, my Santa is same as yours - sings and dances -- Aylah is so afraid of him -- she won't go anywhere near him -- I do hope she gets over this fear of Santa!! I have an entire collection! LOL. Cheri, you have the perfect attitude about your DD Christmas plans- good for you -- have a nice, restful break from school -- you certainly deserve a nice vacation. Julie, hope you're doing great today. Eva, how's that shopping going? I'm so jealous as SF is one of my all time most favorite places!! Enjoy! Phyll, Meredith, Oneday, LauraK, Jewell, and any one else I missed, I hope you have a wonderful, healthy day! Linda

Lori, happy you will be home for the weekend -- it's always better at home. You must be doing fantastic -- wtg. Sorry to hear about your band problems. I am so relieved I didn't have any similar problems. As everyone has said, you know what portions you can eat and I'm sure you'll be just fine until you can get a fill and some restriction. Laura, hugs on your impossible situation, but I agree with the others, if you can do it, I'd take the family and head to NC and have Christmas with your Mom and Dad. Here's a few pics from the other day -- Aylah decorating those sugar cookies and me yesterday with Santa and tree - I was dressed and decided I should take a pic to prove I am up and about. LOL. Cheri, hugs -- glad the situation with your school is getting under control, but very tough on you teachers and I'm sure the admin. You are amazing in your strength. Hugs on the DGS illnesses as well. Will be keeping all of you in my thoughts and prayers. CBL, just wanted to say hi.

Lori, so happy you are doing so well, I've been thinking of you constantly for the past 2 days. Sorry you had that pb episode. That CNA is way out of line -- what a leap she did! That's terrible -- my hopsital they wear name tags AND wrote their name on the board in my room at every shift change so I can't imagine why that girl would take such offense. wow talk about looking for problems -- she better change her attitude or she'll end up having a truly miserable life. But glad you have good mobility and are so strong --especially so soon after your first surgery. Keep it up!! Laura, Nelson is sooo cute -- love that Benihanna hat on him -- so adorable. hope he does well tonight (he will I know). All that you are going through is very normal -- good that you can let it out once in awhile -- better not to hold it all inside you know. You have such a great relationship with your DH -- he's a rock for you and that's wonderful. Oneday -- there's plenty of room for you and your mom -- I'm sure we can sleep many more than just 3 per 3 bedroom condos -- we have 2 bedroom ones for our time shares and we can usually sleep 6 to 8 so there's plenty of room, trust me. As far as what we will be doing -- I know some may shop -- some will probably lay around or in the pool area, etc. I'm happy with just sitting around talking and swimming, etc. -- I can also shop but don't want to shop a lot -- so I think those that want to shop til they drop can do so and those of us who don't will entertain ourselves other ways. It'll all be great -- I'm sure we're going to be surprised how well we actually know each other when we do finally meet. Hope you don't have to work this hard up unitl Christmas -- sounds exhasting to me -- I couldn't do it. Apples, yes it was DSS in hospitall, not DSD -- they both take turns -- both juvenile diabetics -- so it seems always someone in hospital. I was very concerned about my DB - am glad he is out of danger again - he has chronic heart problems -- he's only 61 and in good shape so it is weird. Glad you DH procedure went well. I have to do colonoscopies every 2 years cause of family history and polyps to -- last time I had a small one so hopefully will go to 5 years after this one -- I'm hoping losing weight will be the key to that as well. Well, I did discover how delicious those pre cut out cookies were with cream cheese icing on them -- so threw them in the trash after I ate 2 last night -- toooooo tempting for me. I told DH to ea them or they were going. He ate a few more and I threw the rest. JoAnn, sorry you can't make it in Feb -- it would be lovely to meet you. I know how much work your quilts are -- I've done quilting in the past -- not my thing any more. I remember the big and quilting frames we set up when I was a kid and all the church ladies would come and sit for the day and hand quilt - such a wonderful memory -- I have some of those quilts from my DGM and I treasure them. Had some visitors yesterday -- nice people are thinking of me and stopping by. It gets boring. Aylah coming over this afternoon and will spend the night - miss her so much -- her mom has plans and I offered - she's always so good for us when her DM is not with her -- she's just an angel. DH will be here to do everything and I'll just sit and enjoy her. Feeling good -- leg is sore today -- my back is stiff when I get up out of bed in middle of night and have a hard time sitting down on toilet and I think I somehow twisted my leg a little last night -- so has been a little more painful today but all the swelling is completelly gone -- I sat with ice on it this morning. It's tolerable - still less pain than before. Janet, you are sooooo good - what good words you choose to tell yourself -- which you are generous to share with us -- you are soooo rigiht -- those treats will kill us if we aren't careful -- we can certainly live without them. Another thing I tell myself which sometimes helps is "you ate whatever you wanted for 56 years and it almost killed you, so get some control." It makes me remember why I got the band in the first place. Haven't been on the scale -- now that the swelling is gone will plan to weigh myself on my next regular weigh in day on Tues. Just hope I haven't gained - don't think so as I've been very careful, but worry cause of no exercise. Eva, have a fun trip. It's nice you have the freedom to join your DH. CBL everyone - have a great day! Linda

Meredith you look fabulous! What great pictures -- you should be very very proud of yourself -- you look so happy!! I used to do crazy things like that at your age, so enjoy it now -- lol. Feeling good again this a.m. had a good night's sleep. DGD over last night and we decorated a few cookies. Her mom brought over the already cut out made kind -- all we had to do was bake them. Yuck - they aren't very tasty which I'm thankful for although with the icing they were tolerable (lol). Janet, she just turned 3 and yes, we make cookies already, but I meant wait till she's older to make the more difficult ones. She's definitely interested in it where my step kids never cared about it. My computer says its 9 degrees right now -- with the wind chill, probably minus 10 or so. Just thought I'd share that with you southern girls. LOL. CBL have a great day everyone! Linda

Hi everyone. Laura, hugs on the bad news and Dad issues -- I'm sure he isn't really mad at you -- but he shouldn't be hiding his condition from your siblings anyway and I'm sure he knows that deep down. Under normal circumstances he'd probably be grateful that you told them so he doesn't have to. It's hard enough dealing with his illness much less dealing with it long distance and at this time of the year. My thoughts and prayers will continue to be for you and your family. So sorry. Nelson is such a cutie - loved the GBH - he did such a fabulous job with it - he's so neat -- my ds was never that neat when he was a boy -- maybe that's why I never made one with him. I think another year maybe Aylah will be ready to make one with me. I hope so, I've always wanted to make one and never did. My DGM died when I was 25 and I took over the family Christmas baking at that point. And when I say Christmas baking, I mean I made over 30 different candies/cookies/bars -- many of them very difficult family recipes. I would start baking Thanksgiving weekend and finish up by first week of December. Then I'd give out goody boxes to everyone -- co-workers, bosses, kids' teacher, hair dresser, mailman, newspaper delivery boy, etc., etc. Plus always having huge trays of Cookies at the house for the family dinners. I gave it up a few years ago -- I decided with me and DH too fat and two juvenile diabetics (although I did use Splenda with great results for many years) we didn't need it. I miss it and everyone else misses it too -- will wait a few years (when Aylah is older) and she and I will start a new tradition and bake - I feel it's important for grandkids to have those tradiitons and memories from their DGMs. But I hope when I do get back to making them, I'll make LESS. LOL. FYI I used to clean out my entire freezer and freeze each cookie immediately after baking -- and they were always fresh and fabulous that way. The fudge and candies I kept in the extra fridge. People used to just be amazed at my baking. When I see cookie trays at the local store or see them in catalogues and see the prices I always think about how much money I could have made if I'd sold them -- but oh, the work -- I could never have kept up with orders. I thought about it over the years, but never did. Anyway, Lori, good luck tomorrow -- will be thinking of you and and hope your recovery from knee #2 will be even easier than the first. Glad DH is getting home early so you won't be worrying about that. Jewell, I don't understand your MIL reactiion - as someone said, I hope your DH stands up to her -- he needs to by the sounds of it -- it's truly none of her business. I'm a MIL and I would never even dream of treating my DIL the way you have described your MIL treating you. It's a terrible shame. I had wonderful MILs and both were just terrific women who I still miss (they died many years ago). Plus it's not good for your son to see your MIL treat you in that way. I will keep positive thoughts for you. Apples, LOL on the tamales and polanta -- when I was a kid my DM made "fried mush" -- OMG -- just the most delicious Breakfast in the world -- cook corn meal and put in a loaf pan and slice it the next morning and dip in a little flour and fry in butter and serve with more butter and maple syrup. Yum Yum. It is so yummy. JoAnn, Merry Christmas and so glad to hear you are still doing great -- you've been missed around here. Janet, I'm a food network junkie too - OMG, Paula Deen is absolutely one of my favorites too - I used to cook just like her -- in fact I could be her in many ways. LOL. My DM was a wonderful cook and after she died, I took all her recipes and compiled them into a cookbook that I self published on Familycookbooks.com -- it was very easy to do -- they have a wonderful program -- it ended up being a little pricey, but I went ahead and spent the $$ and gave one to each family member -- all her grandkids, neices, nephews, closest friends, etc. etc. I also included all of my favorite recipes (mom and I cooked very much alike anyway and I figured if I'm paying for it, I might as well add all my favorities there too). It was very well received and I've had requests for more which I could do as there were some recipes I forgot or just missed in my rush to get it published. Maybe some day. I'm doing great. PT was here late yesterday afternoon -- she couldn't believe how good I'm doing either. I really give credit to all the exercise I did all year -- I have great mobility in my leg and can do all the exercises very easily -- I even made lasagne last night for dinner. I had some homemade sauce in the freezer and DH cooked the noodles, so it wasn't that big of a deal. Truly, I'm feeling so good that I have to be careful not to OVER DO. I had a little swelling in my leg (from doing too much) so have been trying to sit down more today. Seriously, truthfully I had a harder time getting in and out of bed after lapband surgery in January than I had after my hip replacement -- if that doesn't prove how much healthier we are after losing weight nothing will. I go in on Monday to get staples out -- incision is healing nicely -- everything is great. Meredith, looks like Santa will be giving you a house for Christmas -- keeping my fingers crossed for you. Julie, yes, GF, I understand exactly what you mean about pain during sleep time. And I am enjoying better sleep this week than I've had in several years. I'm keeping you in my prayers. DSS is back in hospital -- not taking care of his diabetes again - I just get so frustrated with it all. So he's missing work and probably will lose his job. So frustrating -- and it's so inexcusable and ridiculous. Found out my brother just got out of hospital -- he's had heart problems for many years and had another scary episode -- thought he had congestive heart failure, but they never did figure out what it was. He already has a pacemaker/defribulator implanted -- he said he had a lot of Fluid in his lungs and now they can't even tell him why. Oh well, glad he is better and back home. Hope you all have a great evening. Love to you all. Linda

Good Morning everyone! I had another great night -- slept well, so am up and about early this monring. Apples, I love you but don't think I could be your neighbor - I couldn't resist all the goodies you make -- I'd gain weight if I lived next door to you. But I love to hear about them! I tell my DH -"I llive vicariously through what YOU eat" -- when he's eating I'll ask him questions about how it tastes -- but you know, it keeps me from wanting a bite, so I figure that's a good way to handle it. Jewell good going on the weight loss so far and your being able to tell MIL you are ona diet. She'll probably say some things to you about "this is a weird time of year to be dieting, or who diets at Christmas time" but you stay strong and be patient -- I'm sure she'll start to be supporttive when you start to lose the weight. I don't envy your situation -- it's going to be harder on you having to live with them instead of being in your own place -- you'll have a lot more temptation. So, just keep checking in here for support and it will help keep you strong. We're proud of you already. Good going on school too - -it's hard going to school when your single much less when you're married and have a child. Keep up the good work. I love Christmas movies too -- we have most of them and watch them over the season - last night we watched the Scrooge with George C. Scott -- it was good, but my favoritie is the original one too, Janet and we also have that one. I usually save that one for closer to Christmas. But again, our all time favorite is It's a Wonderful Life. We read recently where that movie was a flop the year it came out - didn't get popular until many years later. But any movie with Christmas in it I love -- I also love to watch Chriistmas Story when the marathon is on -- usually Christmas Eve day I think. It's funny how much alike we are. Lori, glad the wedding is going well- glad your daughter in getting some advantages from "being in the business" - that's wonderful. Did you ever buy your dress? I remember you talking about going to buy it but don't remember if you actually bought one or not. My favorite appetizer is a shrimp ball -- you soften a block of cream cheese, mix a little garlic powder and Worchestshire sauce in it. Spread a piece of plastic wrap in a small mixing bowl and spread the cream cheese in it -- then put small shrimp inside and form it into a ball -- place on a plate and refrigerate overnight -- to serve pour cocktail sauce over ball and serve with crackers. always a hit -- keep extra cocktail sauce on hand to pour over it as needed. I use the light cream cheese these days and no one knows the difference. Yum Yum. I had bought a couple of Lean Cuisines awhile back for emergencies after my surgeries. Well, I had one of them last night and it just tasted so darn good. LOL. It's amazing how good something can taste when you haven't eaten it in awhile. I had the sweet and sour chicken - 300 calories, 3 grams fat -- I enjoyed the little bit of rice -- haven't had rice in a long, long time. Seem to be okay with my band. I'm not sure if I mentioned the food in the hospital -- I had taken a small cooler with some of my regular food -- I eat strawberries/blueberries every morning mixed with FF yogurt and a banana --and of course I took some SF pudding and my 100 calorie packs of snacks for if I got munchy - I also wanted to avoid getting a sweet tooth and being tempted by their desserts -- well, it all worked out -- I didn't think they had the greatest food choices but I did order "lightly breaded cod" which was baked and I took off the breading and I ordered a salmon patty for lunch one day which was very delicious -- it was served with pureed butternut squash which was also so delicious -- I put a little of my butter spray on it. Wow, it hit the spot and I'm sure it was simply steamed and pureed -- I think you can just cut them in half and put in a casserole dish and put some water in the dish and cover with saran wrap and cook on high in microwave until soft -- probably 20 mins. or so. That's how I make my spagetti squash (which I also love with spagetti sauce on it - yum). I'd just mix the butternut squash with salt, pepper and butter spray -- I liked it pureed - it was nice and smooth and just hit the spot -- I'm planning on buying it regularly now myself. But they kept putting desserts on my tray even when I didn't order them. DH was happy as he got to eat some, but some I had to salt and pepper to resist as DH didn't come up during our 2 days of blizzard conditions. One was the best banana cream pie -- I took one bite -- wow, it was so good. LOL. I was happy I stayed strong. I did share my lap band experience with a lot of the staff -- I had different nurses and CNAs every day and night - and they were all so nice -- I would ask them to change out my ice packs in my cooler -- and I told them I had lost almost 100 pounds this year which lead to "how" -- I got not one negative comment - -in fact several came back later and asked who my surgeon was, how I got insurance coverage, etc. My physical therapist also was very interested. I was so happy that everyone was so receptive to it -- I also think because I did so well after surgery that it reinforced how important weight loss/exercise is to good outcomes for surgery. They kept telling me I was an "amazing patient". It seems to me that banding is not getting the bad press it got in the beginnining. I think the more we share our stories, the better it will be. Hope everyone has a great day -- I'll CBL. Apples, your outfit sounded great -- hope you get the pics downloaded. My company party was last night -- I sure hated to miss it, but I'll have many many more to attend in the future. Take care. Linda

Good Morning everyone. I can't believe how great I feel. Unbelievable to me that I have such tremendous mobility after having my hip replaced. It is truly amazing. My DH had both of his done 10 years ago and he had a hard time - I expected to be much like him. I give credit to my band and the fact that I exercised everyday since January part of the credit. Losing the weight I know is helping, but I also have great strength in my arms and legs from exercise. Just like the band, I wish I'd done my hip a lot earlier instead of suffering so much. Still haven't caught up on reading what you've all been up to but will try to get it done later today. Just wanted to check in and say hi and thanks for all the good wishes. Linda

Hi everyone, I haven't read anything as I just got home about 2 hours ago, but did want to let you all know I'm doing fabulous! Unbelieveable how good I feel, how little pain I have --just incredible. My surgeon said I had a ton of bone spurs, and he said he doesn't know how I lived so long with that kind of pain. I woke up in the recovery room feeling great -- feeling so refreshed - not groggy at all. Laura, I LOVED my nurse anethesiologist -- I'm in such awe of the great job that he did - honestly, I felt like I'd just woken from an 8 hour sleep. Didn't get into operating room until about 10:45 a.m. and was in my room by 1:00. They kept a brace on my leg along with the air pump thingies to prevent blood clots until the next morning. It was hard for me to stay in bed (I HATE laying in bed) but I managed. The next morning they took the brace off and even the bandage. I was allowed to shower on Thursday. I started using a walker right away Wednes. morning and was up a mobile from that point on. Unbelieveable -- I feel so good. I will try to catch up on all your posts and write more later. Just wanted to say thanks for all your thoughts and prayers. Linda

Hi all, just fly by. I do not yet know about surgery. Saw surgeon today and he took a blood test and said he will make the call tomorrow morning. He wants me to show up for surgery at 8:00 a.m. (now predicting terrible storm here tomorrow) and he'll decide at that time. He said my blood work from Fri. showed my white blood count way high (well yeah, I had bad infection) but it's responding very well to the antibiotics and it looks very good - almost the same as the other leg. So keep me in your thoughts. I think it will happen, but not 100% positive. I just know I want it to happen, but at the same time, I want it to be a safe surgery as well, I don't want a massive infection in my body either. So, here's the deal, I have no laptop and DH would never be able to type anything here. I will not be back home until Friday probably late afternoon if surgery is done. Please dont' worry, I'll be fine. I'm just looking forward to getting this done. Linda

Hi everyone, Welcome Tweety and good luck tomorrow on your surgery! I know you'll do just fine! Being a regular poster here will help you tremendously -- be sure to log in soon and let us know how you are doing. Okay, getting ready to leave for my dr appt. Leg is looking really good, I'll be shocked if surgery does not proceed tomorrow. I'm so happy about that. DSS (dear step son) pulled crap last night. Honestly, as if we don't have enough to deal with right now? You might recall he just showed up here a few weeks ago from Oregon asking us to forgive him and let him back in our home. He will be 22 in March -- he is no young kid. Well, he seemed to be doing okay -- in fact he did start work last Mon. at Walmart. It's almost like when things are going good he MUST screw them up. Well, he worked Sat. and said he was going to spend the night with a friend that we know and go to church with his family yesterday and would be home by 1:30 p.m. to get ready for work by 3:00 -- well, no show and no call -- we were frantic by midnight -- caling hospitals, police. He called in sick at work (so that job is probably gone) and we had no idea where he was. He finally called at midnight. One of our daughter's friends had seen him at 2:00 p.m. and through various people texting each other he got a message to call home. Honestly! My poor DH was imagining all sorts of things. He is juvenile diabetic. Why oh why can't these kids grow up like we did? Jeez. Okay, thanks for listening. Sorry if that's TMI. Just wanted to get that off my chest. We have a couple inches of snow this a.m. Looks pretty. My storm door on north side is totally frozen shut this am -- use that to let our baby (dog) outside. Will have to get the deicer spray out. Laura K, for some reason I thought you were in Missouri, not Michigan -- but we still might manage a visit - Meredith is in Michigan also. Excited about the Florida trip. Can't wait. Thanks again apples for taking care of everything -- you are the greatest! Janet, good going on that wrapping job. Julie, you'll be fine, but remember, you're welcome to fly to Des Moines and fly with me also. Eva, how did you get a FREE curio cabinet? Sounds great. Meredith, wreath sounds interesting be sure to post pics when you're done. Laura, keeping you and your family in my thoughts. Cheri, my DS is much like your DH -- and my DIL learned that at the beginning of their marraige -LOL -- it was the ONLY time they ever fought was when he tried to remodel their bathroom - what a disaster -- he is great at everything EXCEPT repairing anything around the house -- not a handyman -- but then again, he was raised by me and had no dad to teach him anything like that, so it's no wonder. Glad you are making the trip to Florida. Anxious to meet you and everyone else. Gotta run. CBL. Linda

Apples, in MHO, I'd go with two 3 bedrooms for sure before they're gone. Even if only 8 show up total that would only be about $165 each for the three night stay. I think that's a pretty GREAT price! Linda

Okay, I'll stay where ever - -doesn't matter to me where I sleep as long as I have a BED. LOL. So I'll go to 2 bedroom or 3 bedroom - whichever -- I love you all, so doesn't matter to me. I probably need to sleep alone though (so single bed would probably be best) as I toss and turn a LOT (just a warning). LOL. Sounds like great prices, you did good Apples and Laura. I'm a water rat too so I'll be spending lots and lots of time at the pool I'm sure. Can't wait. Laura K, sorry you won't be able to go, but we live close enough maybe we could plan a meeting some time??? We'll have to do that in the spring or summer -- I live about 60 miles south of Des Moines -- 3 hours from KC -- how far are you from KC? Leg looks even better today -- less red - so I am keeping positive. Jewel, good going on passing up the pancakes and syrup! Way to go!! Keep up the good work. I know you will do just great -- you are already making better choices and you are a strong lady. Anyone who can be married, raise a child and go to nursing school all at the same time is one heck of a woman! Your family and especially your MIL should be supportive of you. Meredith I didn't realize your sister was thinking about moving back from CA. Has she made a decision on that yet? I bet she misses her babies. Pretty cold this morning, sliding storm door to the deck was almost frozen shut -- our back yard faces north and that wind just blows and howls from the north -- always have a breeze from that direction. Well, gotta run and get busy. Have a great day everyone. Janet, way to go on leaving the fudge alone - proud of you. Julie, thanks for thinking of me and the well wishes on my surgery. Hope you are okay after your fall the other day. Be careful, looking forward to meeting you in Florida -- can't wait!! Linda

Hi everyone, before I forget, want to welcome both Jewel and Deb. Jewel I hope you will be able to get the support from both your DH and in-laws that you need. This is not an easy road and you need their help and support. Deb, I agree with Janet, not sure why your doctor would not want you to count calories at the beginning -- I have used daily plate since the beginning and feel the accountability of knowing how many calories has been very helpful to me -- I make better choices because I know that that small slice of cheese is 100 calories and I know how long it takes to work that 100 calories off at the gym. Most of us here have also found better success by fluctuating our caloires between 800 and 1100 -- and most of us don't subtract our burned calories either. Good luck to you both and hope you will become regulars here - it really does help to have the support of all these lovely ladies. We understand each other better than anyone else can. I'm in for Florida. But I'm a bit confused -- aren't we piling as many people into each condo as we have beds for in order to keep the costs down? Are those prices good if only 3 people stay in the 3 bedroom condo? Lori, hope everything works out for you -- I know about moving around too -- I've lived in Ohio, Minn., Texas, Alaska, Nevada, California and now Iowa. We moved here cause my DS was here and then he transferred out to Las Vegas last year! So you never know! But we like it here. Had a busy couple of days. Went back to work Thurs and worked extra long to make up some of my hours for my doctor's appts. this week. Had my mammogram Thursday, already got the results, everything is fine with that. My leg looks better. Called my surgeon on Friday morning and let them know what was going on. I had my meeting witih the OR nurse for pre-op interview on Friday and more x-rays, etc. Surgeon will see me Monday morning to decide if he can do surgery. The nurse sounded hopeful and it is looking better, so I have hope it will happen. My brother in law had emergency surgery Friday morning -- he's been suffering for over 8 months with pain in his groin area -- no one could figure it out. Well, he finally had an MRI of his upper spine area and low and behold he had a huge bulging disc -- so they did the surgery on Friday morning. He did well -- hopefully that will be the end of his constant pain. Won't know for sure until he gets off the pain meds and sees how he feels as he recovers. Took DGD to Christmas parade on Thursday night. We always park the car along the square and sit in the car as it's always so cold. Well, she was just a blast as usual, actually spent most of the parade literally jumping up and down in the seat -- sitting in the front with me -- without her car seat is a "big deal" -- and she was yelling "merry missmas" out the window. It was so cute. I love this age (3)! She is just too much fun. I love being a grandma -she's my only grand, so I do enjoy her. But she is petrified of Santa claus -- she went to a Christmas party today at one of the churches and her mom said she just screamed and cried and won't go anywhere near him. Not sure why this is, but we are not forcing the issue. I just hope it passes in the next year or two. It's too sad to be afraid of Santa. She called me this afternoon when she got back from the party and said, "Santa scared me so bad!" I just don't understand. Finished up my Christmas shopping on line today for my DS and his wife -- having everything shipped directly to them. With my surgery Tues., it needs to be easy for me. Got some presents wrapped today and found my Christmas cards so I can take them with me to hospital -- figure I'll have lots of time to do cards while I'm there 3-1/2 days. Plan to take some of my own food to the hospital -- 100 calorie packs, FF jello and FF pudding cups for sure -- just want to make sure I will have what I need while I'm there. I'm worried they might not have FF things - it's a small town hospital. Tomorrow we will babysit GD and I had taped the Thanksgiving Day parade for her which I will sit down and watch with her. I was busy cooking and didn't see it all on Thanksgiving. Laura, hope you're feeling better - loved the pics of Nelson -- loved the JD cake -- it was beautiful -- did you decorate it yourself? 85 pounds is a lot -- of course you look different!! Meredith, hope you don't have a leak -- you probably don't -- it's probably like Laura said -- just a kink in it or something. Haven't been able to exercise all week with my leg infection, so feeling really lazy -- looking forward to getting surgery over and getting back to it in Januaary. Oh, speaking of cards, my email is lvilcone@yahoo.com Okay, gotta try to get some sleep -- tried earlier, but wasn't tired. Hopefully by now can get to it. Hope everyone has a great Sunday!! Linda

Hi everyone, just a quick update since I need to get going this morning. Have a mammogram at 8;30. Well, doctor says it is not shingles and it is a skin infection and gave me antibiotics. It seems no better today and in fact, hurts very badly when I walk. Not sure what is going on or how the heck I could have gotten a skin infection as I had no cuts, no scrapes, nothing on that leg. How could that occur? It's just too weird. He said to wait and see how it looks Sat. Now, this was my PC physician, not my surgeon. I have my meeting tomorrow afternoon with the OR nurse so will keep that and maybe stop by the surgeon's office and let him make the call. I'm so disappointed -- I was so ready for surgery, but it doesn't look very good unless it somehow greatly improves by tomorrow. I'm heading back to work although not sure I'll make it a full day as I still have a slight temp and get hot/cold all day and feel pretty miserable. Thanks for all your thoughts/prayers. CBL. Linda

Hi everyone. I've had a busy couple of days. Got my tree and all decorating done Sat./Sunday -- it's always a two day project - have lots and lots of decorations. Needed to get it done before surgery. Went to work Monday, but around 4 or so got terrible chills - I was so cold, I turn my floor heater on but still was shivering. Temp on the thermostat said 78 and I had on a long sleeved sweater with a long sleeved jacket -- no way I should have been cold. Had terrible body aches - finally got home and went to bed still shivering - I was nervous I was having kidney problems again cause that's how I felt during my kidney failure last year. No temp though. After a couple of hours under tons of blankets I warmed up enough to come upstairs and eat a little dinner. Had terrible pain all over - like the flu -- but I had a flu shot. Yesterday morning I got up and had a rash on the bottom of my left leg - very bright red -- and painful on the one side -- I had DH rub some cortizone cream on it for itching and it hurt so bad when he touched it. Anyway, I thought it would go away by this morning. Today it is worse and hurts when I walk. I'll be going to the doctor - I'm worried it's shingles. I spent yesterday hot/cold all day - I'll be so angry if it's shingles cause when I had my physical a few weeks ago I asked about the shingles shot and the doc said you have to be 60 -- well, I also have Fibromylgia which is immune deficiency so I should have argued with him and made him give it to me. If this cancels my hip surgery Ill be really angry - I'm all geared up for it. Will try to stay positive until I get to the doctor. Just need to vent here, but by all I read on line, it sure looks and sounds like shingles to me. I'm so irritated. Janet, great pic of you and Andrew - I saw it on FB. Love that he bought you tennis shoes -- how sweet. My SS started his new job yesterday - I'm proud that he got a job - he's working at Walmart and getting 35 hours week/so happy he found something in this economy. Apples, your baby is gorgeous -- I noticed how gorgeous he was but kept forgetting to commnet -- he looks so huggable. I love dogs more than people most of the time. They are so faithful and loving. My little doggie laid next to me the other night, trying to give me her body warmth -- she is so sweet -- we call her a "nurse dog" cause she's always so attentive when we are sick or hurting. LOL. She's special. Glad everyone had a great Thanksgiving. I am throwing out food today. I'm proud that I didn't gain either (didn't lose but didn't gain). I haven't been able to exercice since Monday -- hopefully will be able to get back to it soon. Laura, the cake was beautiful -- especially the sprinkles. My DS loves Deere too -- so we always decorate with green/yellow - I usually buy him JD presents for Christmas/birthday cause he has everything. I bought him JD Christmas lights one year -- they were little tractors. So cute. I'm keeping your family in my thoughts and prayers -- you're doing great -- glad you didn't gain -- I'm sure in the past we all would have been like your DH and gained. I only ate Thursday and had a few leftovers on Friday but stayed away from that food after that. Sure tasted good though. Well, will close -- need to call the doctor. Janet and Phyl, you girls be careful with that fudge -- let Earl eat it all. Great -- I had low potassium too -- after LB surgery they gave me an IV of potassium -- ever since I make sure I eat a banana every day - this time my pre surgery was fine -- no low potassium. Everyone take care and have a good day. I'll CBL. Linda

Meredith, my surgeon went .25 ccs after 5.0 -- I finally found my sweet spot at 6.0 - but it was slow going from 5 to 6 and I think that helped me adjust. I think you should go with getting .25 out - and if you're still too tight, you can always go back in and get another .25 out. Linda