NYSparklegirl

Hi.....

Hope everyone is okay.....Dont have time to post much now....as we are packing for CA wanted to touch base about time to meet....Janet and Phyl.

Yes, Jan 22nd would be perfect. My dad will babysit so I can go out alone. yea.

Perhaps you can meet Dassi another time during the week or so....

but.....if this is good for Phyl as well then its a plan!!! I will have a car so Ill be able to drive wherever......

Do you both have my cell number???

I have both yours.

Will be leaving on Thursday morning at some point..not even sure yet lol. Have the tickets but didnt even look!!

Must go shopping tomorrow for some sandals. I saw a pair that I like at Jildor...that I really liked and they are on sale now during the winter....last years style....who cares.

read half the posts since I posted last...and havent finished all of them...so will post hopefully by tomorrow!!

Okay then

Have a great night all.....

Jodi

You are in great hands. The entire process is amazing and stress free. The staff at Mercy at superb and the nurses are the best. You will be fine.

Hi Joe,

Yes, I was in great hands. lol I had the surgery this past Feb. When did you have your surgery? I have lost 80lbs and the staff at Mercy and at the office has been amazing. Do you go to the attend the monthy support groups? If not you should. You should join the thread "Mentors" I have gotten most of my daily support from the people on this thread. They have become like an extended familiy and we have set up weekends throughout the year that we get together and meet at different places throughout the US.

Jodi

Hi all.....Another day home....no school!!! Just for 6 inches!!!

So....just catching up on everything again!!!!

Went to the doctor to get results of the lab works from last month...and NO MORE CHOLESTEROL PILLS!!! So, now no more pills at all. Yea yea yea....still 145 and blood pressure great.....all is good and he couldnt be happier...actually hugged me hes so happy...he was the once who convinced me to get the lap band.

Foods...okay Proteins, veggies and some corn pops natural with Protein..bakes 140 cal per 2.5 cups, home so food is here!! not good but....control control!!

Exercise...not good...havent been able to get there this week...gotta get back into it but....having such a hard time!!! okay berate.....me!! I need it. But been busy with bat mitzvah and dates and no snow.....

I know no excuse but it is what it is.

OH....Phyiliis....didnt realize that you were also in Palm Desert.....is Palm Springs close by???

Joyce...would have loved to see you as well!!! But...six hours away?? Could understand why you wouldnt want to come on over!!!

Would anyone lilke to have a weekend though? I will be arriving on the 20th. there for two weekends...the 23rd and the 28th. Leaving on Sunday the 30th. If Arizona isnt that far maybe we can meet in the middle? Is there a middle between Arizona and Palm Desert? and please dont tell me LV...cause that is a deff NOOO. lol

So...when ever you and Janet want to get together....or we can get together seperate...I know Janet works but during the day...I will have a car so can travel. NOT TO VEGAS. sorry.

Dassi of course will be with me....but maybe not at night....and Friday-Sat Sundown to Sundown....shabbos. Other then this we really dont have any organized plan....I do know that Dassi would love to see all the dog stories and photos that ive shown her on facebook!! A day of shopping would be nice too!!!

I actually have a stop over going on Thursday in "TX"..for two hours and "Chicago" for two hours coming back on the Sunday the 30th....if anyone is near the airport...would love to see you guys.

So made just lost a whole long post GRRRRRR

I remember 'tule' fog well from living in Sacramento, I had to be to work at 4am and hated driving on I-5 to the airport in it. One gal that worked at the airport was killed in it one morning. So sad.

Ok, gals, looking for opinions about a baby shower. My friend is throwing DD a baby shower on the 29th and she's holding it at the rec center where she works (and I used to ) she can rent the room for free. It's the only date available til end of Feb. We chose this date due to the fact DD has been having the contractions and after the first of Feb the dr will take her off the RX that is controlling the contractions and off bed rest, and allow her to go into labor if that so happens. DD would like the shower before the baby comes. PROBLEM: DD's MIL informed her last night that she has to work that day (she's a nurse) and demands the shower be rescheduled. And also that it shouldn't be at the rec center. She just doesn't like the place. She's not offering any alternatives either and thinks the shower should be after the baby. First, this is my friend that is having the shower, not me and I think it's a wonderful thing of her to do (she also threw a bridal shower for her at the same place). She is inviting family but it wasn't necessarily a family shower. It's all our family and friends on our side of the family. She's free to throw another shower. Is it wrong to still have the shower when both grandmas can't be there? She is saying if DD doesn't change it that she will forever hold it against her (and me). This is the same woman that didn't want her son to marry my daughter, told my daughter she needed mental help, wasn't good enough, etc. She was horrible during the wedding preps, did nothing to help, and at the bridal shower, said she wasn't interested and came 45 min late and sat and cried the whole time. I feel if we change the date, it's caving to her demands and setting a precedent, DD has given in to her so many times in teh past and it's never enough anyway. What would you do? DD is beside herself, said that something that was supposed to be so joyous and fun has now become ugly and she feels stuck.

Lori.....I am hearing you loud and clear.....my family....grrr sometimes. My gut feeling is like everyone elses and yours.....keep the date. If she doesnt want to come well.....thats just too bad.

however....nothing to do with the above reasons....regarding the date in general..........

Igeneral alot of jews do not even prepare a thing for the baby until they are born. I think thats crazy..as the thought of having to run and do everything the second that baby is born is enough to drive someone insane......but at least have all the basics to be ready....so we buy all the basics and have everything ready in someone elses house....not to be brought in to the house at all....so god fobid something happens.....then there wont be anything there in the house when you get home....and of course if all goes well as should......then all the stuff is brought in and the shower is held and so on...so in general I dont think its a good idea to have any parties or preparing except for the first weeks needs....and thats only in the last weeks before baby is born.

Am well aware that the doctors are happy with your DD progress and the medications are working etc and have said that everything is great, I would hate to god forbid for her to have something planned and she couldnt make the party because she will be on bed rest at that time. I know from my own experience that at 3 months when there was problems...and the meds worked but regardless at 28 weeks....I was put on bed rest and couldnt get out of bed for the duration and even then I went into labor at 34/2 weeks...so my feelings is to generally wait but thats just what "we do" so I follow that premise....I do remember once mentioning to my mom that I wanted to order everything...just order and have them deliver everything after....and oh boy...did I get a mouthful. Never mentioned it again.

Bottom line is you have to be comfortable with what you and your family practice.....and if having the shower before is what you and your daughter and hostess has decided then thats what you should do!!

ok posted earlier but the delete monster got it.

Mr Filet Mignon did not come to the party on Saturday. I am finding that he likes to gamble a bit much for my liking. I did meet someone at the the party. I enjoyed talking with him so we'll see.

Kelly, go for it you can do or be what ever you want.

Meridith, wtg you are right in the game again.

Great, a big ditto from me on the MIL issue for your DD.

I'll do the northern whine while Apples is gone, I am so sick of this cold weather........

Ok got that out of my system for a bit.

LauraK

Laura, I see the red flags are going up.....trust that gutt feeling. Glad you met someone else at the party hey you never know..he might have done you a favor by not being there.....dont you feel like your a teenager again??? I feel like a different person.....and going out on dates is a whole new experience that is both fun and exciting....to think that Jeff was even a runner makes me laugh. lol. sorry....he was nice to everyone I know....and he does put on a good show no pun intended. lol. But, the more time you spend the more time you get to know that people dont change so if you suspect a gambling problem......then remember that an addict is a behavior...that crosses over to other addictions.....so please please be careful....dont want you to become the co addict as we know we here who have been banded know is so easy for some of us to become as we are all addicts ourselves to foods esp.

More important.....go and have fun and experience, experience, experience!!!

Okay, here I am again apologizing for being absent so much... I don't know why I just can't get to the computer anymore.... I have been busy and then still doing the pain thing............it's my only excuse.. I haven't read since about page 213.........I'll never get caught up now.... I hope each one is doing okay and the new year is looking bright and promising...... glad to hear Apples and DH made it to AZ safely..... So, I'm going to say goodnight and pray you are all fine...... We are okay but have sick little granddaughters.... DD won't let me help as she doesn't want me to get sick on top of everything else..... Take care everybody.... Hugs and prayers for all..... Julie

Julie, so glad to see you!!! Glad you are busy...hope you keep feeling a little better....but sorry about kiddies hope they are better soon!!

Morning...off to get beautiful this morning, then I'll do some shopping...fresh stuff, and then house cleaning. What an exciting day. Oh, and I'll have to work at "work" too some.

I'm leaving Apples alone today to get settled in. I'll start bugging her tomorrow...LOL.

Meredith, Apples is renting my mother-in-law's house which has been empty for quite a while. We had it painted and I've furnished it with left-overs from my sister, the place in Benson, extra stuff I have, etc. So they are living in a hodge podge. The house is really nice, small, but nice, it's just the furnishings that are pretty funny. They did get a new mattress yesterday. It's functional and I think they'll be fairly comfortable. It has a really nice screened in porch...which isn't so important this time of year, but in the spring it nice to keep the flies out.

Need to scoot....check in later,

Eva

Eva....and Lori thank you so much for the websites.....I checked both sites out!! Etsys was a little out of my league but thanks for giving me a new site that has gorgeous stuff!!! I bought somethings allready for myself! lol. I did find through the other site...other sites as you suggested and found "Shindigz", where we will end up ordering great favors and center pieces for great prices!!! Thanks...so much!!!! BtW.....the cards Idea....fabulous! Dassi loved it and easy sheasy....your the bestest....would never have thought to print out sayings before hand and have them pick and choose and just tape!!! The stamps....nice. Thanks again!!

Sandy....with your dad was as open as Arlene's mom with getting the help he needs (but not all help from you). Hugs to you, too.

Sandy.....I hear you hear.....sometimes my mom is so frustrating...she wont wear her hearing aids and she just doesnt understand why we all scream at her and she doesnt hear whats going on around her grrrr. And...the money?? OMG....the computer is a great example....she wants me to help her figure it all out but I cant even do that and she wont hire a computer consultant and expects me to figure it out over and over again!!! grrr.. Frustrating...last week I called my brother beginning to vent and he just started laughing and said..."better you then me cause last week she drove me crazy for the same thing"!!! We have to love them...unconditionallly just like our kids! lol.

b] [/b]

Linda I hope that your mom feels better. So sorry about her hand.

Okay....yall....must go get dinner ready.

Have a good afternoon all!

Jodi

Hi....

Guess what??? We will be coming to Palm Desert for winter vacation in two weeks.

January 20th- January 28th..or 29th. My dad decided to have us come out because he is not coming to Dassi bat mitzah.

So...we are going!!! Janet???? Hopefully we can get together at some point or anyone else in the near vicinity!

Cant wait!

This weekend was so busy.....that cant even talk about it. The dates were okay.....nothing great!

Alot of family drama....about bat mitzvah and why my dad isnt coming in for it and so on .....just cant even begin to rehash it all except...to say sometimes I wish a new family would be nice.....

Tex....way to go....on the volenterring and weight loss...its great!!!

Linda.....you are really being a tropper here. Kudos to you.

Jules...you just keep on doing what your doing!!

costco........hah wont even go near that place during lunch on a weekend....youd never get past those tasters area.

Trader Joes.....speaking of which...we will be frequenting in Palm Desert lol so....thanks for the heads up Janet.

Arlene....hope your mom does better in the rehab. Glad she had an option. Its good to know that she will be taken care of a while longer and not go home alone.

Welll not feeling 100 percent....a little dizzy, tired and nauseas.....slightely. I dont know just out of sorts...going to sleep. Have a good night all...

Jodi

[Okay....another day no work due to SNOW A COMMING.....has started. So,,,have some time to post so going to junk up the thread....lol

So. date was okay. Just okay. He was nice....but he was a little nerdy? Which might not be bad...he was a normal guy...but perhaps he was nurvous..and seemed a little nerdy but....not sure....he didnt swoop me....but that also might not be a bad thing. lol.....we shall see.....He actually lives across the street and down the block....lol cutting across the park....five minutes. lol. Funny never saw him before.

welll....have two dated on Sunday....one afternoon and one Evening...lol two different guys! loll.

Tomorrow night going to Single parents get together...with a friend. Dassi will be going out for the shabbat and she will be staying till Sunday morning...and then come home shower and dress for bat mitzvah....for the afternoon. SO...pretty much free this weekend....thats a new thing lol. So..figure might as well....use it....or loose it!

Today.....just hanging at home...need to recoup for weekend and week to come up.....have a holiday party on Wednesday..and Thursday support group. It will be a busy week. Monday late afternoon meeting so be home later....and karate for Dassi Monday and Tuesday.....good lord. hmmm

Exersize....planned for mornings this week....and thats that....no excuse this week back on plan!!! Started this past week went twice. slow start but back to something!!!! Next week 4x goal.

quote name=Apples2' timestamp='1294345274' post='1555874]

Jodi...just relax and have fun on your date...unless he's a freak and then excuse yourself to go to the restroom to figure out an escape plan. LOL You know, you just do what you think is right for you and Dassi when it comes to giving gifts at the party. Sometimes ppl get just ridiculous when it comes to things like this. You are a single mom and working hard to pull off a very nice party for Dassi. Go online and type in "Kate Aspen" . I was helping with an event about six months ago that I needed to get some thank you gifts. I found some really nice quality things on their clearance that were just put with each place setting. And, got them each for $2.99.

To answer your question. We are heading out in the morning to drive to Tucson. Will be back around March 5-6. Ready to blow this pop stand! I will be able to be online some during the trip (will have to wrestle DH for the laptop to get him away from being glued to his "Ag Talk" site).

AHH....okay then...didnt get that post...you did say you were going somewheres but didnt catch where!! Now ive got a visual....have fun, safe driving....and enjoy!!!! Keep us posted and up to date...we shall miss your daily posts, support and encouragement in your funny sensitive words and manner!!! Send some occasionallly try not to be a stranger!

Good afternoon. Just got home from costco, eye dr and pedicure. First eye dr, not good. The spot is still there, he now doesn't think it's a dot hemragge, but instead a micro anueryism (my medical term spelling is not good) it hasn't changed so good news, it didn't get worse, bad news it's still there. I need to get it rechecked in 6 mos and watch for any warning signs of floaters, flashes of light or worsening vision. It has me a little freaked out but am praying it's just gone next time. Maybe I will go to specialist next time to be sure.

Linda, yes I know you were joking about my travel. But then I thought I hope I didn't come across as braggy.

Jodi, have fun on your date tonight. Wow those bat mitzvahs are sure expensive. Reminds me of the 'quincineros' parties the Mexican culture around here (more in Denver) have for their daughters 15th birthdays, huge affairs, formals, etc. When DD was an event planner she said they costed as much or more than a wedding.

Joyce, nice to see you posting again. Hope your knee is better soon.

LauraK, well I think you are special too! Any more dates with Mr Filet Mignon??

Yes, they are very simular to the "quincineros" Our community has a large Mexican population so we have seen some beutiful ones here....the best is watching all the family and friends who come all together and take pictures in the park gazebo across the street. The dresses and tuxes that all are wearing and matching for everyone is just gorgeous! Yes....they spend alot of money for those events...just as much as weddings. Bat Mitzvahs are the same....there are parties that people throw that are just like weddings some more then others! $50,000- 75.000. Ridiculous but.....true. My wedding was about 50,000 to 75,000 and we had about 300 people...that was Soup to nuts lol. That was the middle or the road. Nothing extravagent or out the ordinary.

Apples......im going to check out that "Kate Aspen" site...just as I get off this thread....Thank you so much

any other ideas appreciated...no matter how crazy you might think!!!

Again....the theme is "masquerade" as it is purim time....the theme is reveling oneself....as is in the story of Queen Esther in the purm story...there was alot of revealing needed to go on there.....down to her true identidy and then the plan to save the jews...so one reason for wearing masks is to remind of us this concept of the hiding and reveailing in the end....so hence the "masquerade" idea.....

so....any ideas for centerpieces???? Gifts?? where I can get masks...to give out at the door?? So far I have Oriental trading that has a set of rfeathered Mard Gras masks per dozen. They also had these mardi gras centerpieces...that might work and somehow put a mask around each.....Dassi wants a special mask to wear that I saw online...one that was about $15 dollars....but Im not buying 55 of these for each girl...if they were $5 a piece then that might be nice. lol..less would be even better!

We will be packing goody bags to give out...so need bags and goody foods...probably from costco. bulk...givng these out on Purim to the rusian students at Brooklyn col that do not know what purm is...so thats one project that she is doing....in the invitation we have put a card that we are colliecting costumes for an organization that will give them to chilldren to wear on Purim who cant afford to buy them....the are also putting an add in the paper for people in the community to come and bring their costumes to the place we are having party to add. She also would like a table to add to where everyone can make cards for children in the hospital ...to put on their beds and are giving them to her pediatrician to deliver to all the kids on the peds floor. Wew...thats plenty to do and Plenty to buy for!!!

hmmm......Eva...you make your own cards.....perhaps you can give me some suggestions as to what I can get to put out on table to have the girls make these cards....simplem easy, fairly doesnt take long and not to expensive to buy for 55 girls.

btw backeberrys has a lot of fiber!!! Im watching the Today show.....and they are having a whole day of fitness and nutrition and its really very interesting and educational!!! We should all be watching this one....very practical and sooo many great ideas...for exercize, foods and nutrition.....each segment a different idea....so one is showing you a three different foods....and asking which foods do you think has more calories, or Fiber or Protein???

like....I never knew that my 16 oz latte has just as much Protein as two eggs!!!???

Was just counting grms for the milk. hmmm feel better now...and tht wasnt Decaf ....But it was all about ideas and demonstrating each one!!! I love it...check it out on Utube if you can.

okay...fashion.....always have your bra fitted and cup up!! Wear a dress....Always wear a shaper......from under bra to to thighs....and Spanx tights always.....they make your legs look longer and thinner and high healed shoes....waalah instant thinnner look for tonight!! lol. Love that!! I never wore dresses but last week I went and bought two sweater dresses with belts.....firsts!!! Wow. of course havent worn them yet.

Oh wait heres a new one maybe....for me for sure!!

Protein shakes......add cinamin?? Interesting never would have thought that....add strawberries, blueberries and blackberries and banana...with your scoop of protein,...millk or almond., soy, rice what ever you use and blend it all with some cinnamon.....Ive tried all the above without cinamon,,,know im spelling wrong...now...cant see straight with this font...This show is for us gals.......band friendly plans for all of us!!!!

cottage cheese and granola bar....toasted miuffin with Peanut Butter and bananna

I dont eat wheat but for those who do....

a ninety ten food stratergy....a 150 cal a day treat....for a sweet treat work this in your plan if you need too!!! They call it the 90/10 lol. like that.....and the 150 cal could be healthy friuts or...um something like chocolate....dark.....or two little snickers....hmmm?? no not that for me but chocolate yes thats me!!!

NO GYM REQUIRED.. a book by Someone "Cohen" for great ideas for workouts at home!!! WOW...creative ideas.....using dishtowels, towels, jumping over obstacles and then a workout with just your body.

I take a class at the gym like that......nothing else but body.....cool....think I will check out that book...

what great a great show today....hmmm should snow some more often!!! Id get thinner if i didnt go to work at all...but then just watching doesnt really do it does it? lol.

Apples, I think you did the right thing the way you handled her. You can't argue with someone like that and they need to have their own "Aha" moment. You can't force them. She has her own reasons for not believing you.

I remember when I was going through my divorce and my ex would call me and start to yell at me for the things I was asking for in the settlement-things which I was entitled to by law. I would tell him I wasn't going to talk about that and hang up. He would tell the kids about it and they would start to yell at me for asking for those things, particularly my one son, who would tell me I hadn't done anything to earn them. I would tell him it wasn't his business and walk away. One time, my ex was in the driveway when i came home from a walk and he started telling me I was acting like a victim in the divorce and I looked at him and said, "John, I love you, I forgive you, and I am not your victim." And I walked away and went in the house.

That was a very liberating moment for me. I really should have added, "Bless your heart." I have to remember that in the future.

Taking a lot of Zicam and zinc cough drops has really limited the impact of this cold. Nyquil gave me a good night's sleep which is just essential to getting better.

Funny thing happened when I was dealing with an ADHD oppositional child today. I laughed at him and told him that during the time he took to argue with me he could have learned all his times facts and he started to tell me he knows them and I laughed and said,"I love you Colby." Without thinking, in the middle of his argument, he responded,"I love you too." and kept arguing for a second and then looked like he wanted to to take it back and said, "Wait a..." The other kids burst out laughing and it was the highlight of my week.

Chew! Chew!

Cheri

AWWW Cheri that must have been a "you made my year" moment!!!! How often does that happen? Keep that close to you!!!

Okay go watch it im done.....looking outside to see if I can run to Supermarket before the storm hits hard!!

Have a great day...and weekend.

Jodi

Good Afternoon....

Laura....Breakfast??? Breakfast? ?? That sounds like it was a great NYE!! Yea you!!! Sending you good juju so there will lots more breakfasts!!!! So happy for you and he cooks what you can eat....as he listened....you so deserve someone like that!!! Thanks for the update!

Jessica....Congratulations on the Scholorship! Im sure that takes a load off.....and makes life stressers a little lighter now!!! You so worked hard to get this!!! Good going!!

Chicago??? Sounds good but not sure if the timing will work out for me this year...but this is what I have available...

End of January....January 19th to January 31st. Winter vacation....so far have not made any plans for any vacation....and not planning to....I think that with Dassis Bat Mitzvah coming....I need to put aside every penny...and the only vacation would be a driving one to a place that is free....so staying home...and having a staycation.....lol. It will be okay....Dassi bummed about it but its not in the budget..the bat mitzvah will cost about $5,000. As of now I have $3,500. That pays for the restuarant only. Nothing else...and if we have more then 80 people then Ill need at least 4,000. Crazy Crazy Crazy!! This is what is considered a no frills party. Hahha could have fooled me. Hey....the dress is gorgeous and the invitations are as well....the food will be great and if we have nothing else....then thats what will be. Of course I know Dassi wants to have a photo booth and something to give away to each girl. A custom made mask of some sort....or gift...I hate that idea what a waste of money....but.....If I told you all the gifts she comes home with from each party...youd all think these people are insane...which of course they are out of their minds so have to keep everything in perspective for us but it aint easy as.....its hard not to keep up with the Joneses next door!! But heck sure going to try not to!!

Lori....enjoy the trip..and Karen.....you too....didnt catch where you are going to but where ever it is.....you both should have a wonderful trip...my suggestion...forget the 10-12 pairs of shoes and just buy as you go along !!! lol

oh....so here are the dates...available lol....hmm add??

Forget February and March.....Bat Mitzvah March 13th.

April for Passover vacation is......April 21st-27th is possible

Memorial weekend might be good

June 7th- 12 week is great actually!!

June-20th-24th is perfect actually or the June 27th to 30th will work just as well!! So I would say....

June 6th week and June 20th weeks are the best......June 6th without Dassi and June 20th maybe she would come hmm....not sure about that,. lol

other then that its all up in the air!! so....you guys choose....I choose June 7th.....lol

other then that June 20th with kids.

Okay then...

must be running....

Have a date tonight....yes, blind date....lives in the neighborhood.....sounds nice but....we shall see. We are going for dinner....got a babysitter for this as Mom was busy so hope it will be worth it (please god, must add a prayer there) lol

have a great night all~!!!!

Jodi

Hi all ....do I detect old format style?? Not sure but think so....

HAPPY NEW YEARS EVERYONE!!

Sorry ive been gone.....but its been a heck of a week getting back to the normal routine!

I always have such a hard time getting back into things after a vacation...,,even when its not a vacation but forced vacation of sorts..........didnt go back to work till Monday....I could not drive to Brooklyn from LI....apparently the neighborhood I work in was never plowed at all.....and I still had a hard time with finding a spot today!!!

So far this week has been a dousy.....and trying to focus and attend to all the things that didnt get done last week...including paperwork, shopping and basic stuff....library, gym etc.....it really has knocked me out....not to mention the darn cleaning girl cancelled today after not being able to come last week....so the place is really a mess! I tried to clean somewhat last Friday but heck who am I kidding??? I cant clean anymore....dont even know where to start...I could wipe the counters, sweep the floors and put to order everyday the apartment...and throw out garbage and clean the bathroom bath and shower........and wash the dishes.....but real cleanning???? Those days....no can do anymore....I guess once you had someone three times a week cleaning.,.....going to once a week was hard but....I learned what I needed to do in between to keep place clean but....this??? Two weeks without a good clean??? OMG....freaking out!! Had to get someone else to come tomorrow.....if I had to wait one more day id have to move to my mother for the weekend for sure!

WOW....that makes me look so...um spoiled.....but this is my one luxery....I work two jobs and am a single parent...I dont have time to clean as well and I deserve it to boot. Much prefer to spend time at the gym then cleaning....as that is the only option of use of free time! So....spoiled then I must be? Sobeit....lol

Tonight went to pick out and order Dassis Bat Mitzvah dress....Its gorgeous...She is having formal wear....

(to a restaurant, lol) thats what she wants..so thats what its going to be. We found someone in the neighborhood who makes custom dresses for 150-200 dollars total.....She is getting a copy of some designor something....Princess gown. yes, she will look gorgeous....I went to look at dresses for me at the GMACH for gowns. They had gorgeous gowns...of so many styles and colors..........Im sure ill find something there so wont have to pay anything for mine. Pays to volenteer so they know me and are putting aside anything that they think I might like. The invitations are ordered.....

Now Centerpieces....that is the order for the next few weeks.

She is having a masquerade ball.....so any ideas about what the center pieces on ten tables could be??? In fact anyone who wants to have that project....would be happy to pay...lol. Going to end up paying a fortune anyways for this shin dig....might as well be something amazing. lol

Have not had time to read all posts.....but....

wanted to see how Loris daughter was doing and if she is now on Bed Rest. I hope and pray she is doing okay and continues to do so.....

I want to thank everyone for their lovely cards and holiday wishes and gifts..........So sweet and so...nice to have them up on our mantel to look and and smile everytime I pass them by.....oh and if you all dont mind Id like to leave these up for at least another month....as they are the first holiday cards weve ever gotten and I dont want to put them away...each one is nicer then the other.....

Okay....welll you can all imagine that I have not been to gym and eating hasnt been the greatest but getting back into gear and by next week better be back on track!!!! Or ill kick my butt....no need for Janet to do that for me....I think I have a support group meeting tomorrow night...but not sure.....have a date but will cancel if there is a meeting...need to go and get back the "head" the date can wait till Sunday.

Oh wanted to hear how to NYE date went with Laura?? Was thinking about you that night and praying you were having a great night!!!

Okay....well must go to sleep exhausted....have a good night all and will try to read posts tomorrow at work when and where its quiet!!

Jodi

Hi.....hope all is well....

I wanted to wish everyone

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

MAY ALL YOUR DREAMS FOR THIS YEAR COME TRUE!!!

Enjoy all your celebrations!

Jodi

Hi all....

well....its been a fun couple of days here in NYC. Blizzard!!!

No school now going on day two...so hence no work now going on two days. Just about to go bonkers...running out of hot cocoa mix and no more milk and only little rice milk left. l.ol. Have plenty of everything else...so we will just have to suck it up and drink water! Actually might venture and walk to the grocery a little later but not looking forward!

Have...now organized my closets, drawers, and bookshelves in my room...next project is my living room....thats going to take a while and as it looks there will be lots of time...as I dont know if tomorrow ill be able to get into Brooklyn at all. The major streets highways are good..but the side streets...they havent even ploughed yet. So..I might be home yet another day tomorrow and who knows...about Thursday. This isnt my idea of a great vacation but am getting alot of orgnization done! lol

Not really good to be home near the kitchen all day...testing, testing, testing. Cant get to the gym so no ability to rationalize that one bite of something with the thought of working it off at the gym anytime today or tomorrow either! so...being real careful. Proteins, Proteins, and Veggies...

okay.....Im hearing lots more stories filled with wonderful traditions that are making me smile and so happy....for everyone...what a special, special time. Thank you all so much..I am living vicarously through all of you at this time and again as ive said before...wow what wonderful feelings youve all conveyed. I just think that if I was celebrating Christmas I would have my decorations from the earliest possible to the latest possible moment ever!

New Years...eve comes out on Friday night this year..which means...no partys here for us. Its shabbos so we wont even get to see the ball bounce on TV as we dont watch TV on shabbos at all....or listen to radio. It will be like any other day,. boo hoo. Even though its not a jewish holiday its...American...so we do Celebrate..except when it falls on Friday night so kind of depressing however..I trust you will all post about your celebrations and what nots.....so I can at least hear all your experiences!!!

Im bored. lol, must get out..cabin fever setting in!!!

Tina....

Im so sorry about your situation....but it seems from what you are posting that this relationship hasnt really been healthy for a long time and you know this. You are both what psychologists call "co-dependants". You have both set up the perimeters of your relatiosnhip a certain way...that is not healthy for you or for your partner youve said this as much......and you are feeling it as well..as you have stated. Behavior patterns are hard to break especially when there is no one objective like a therapist to help you do this...I agree that in order to begin the process you must first look into yourself and the underlying reason for your behavoirs in order to then change the pattern of behaviors allready set in place. You are both now fullfilling the needs of each other but they might not be being done in the healthiest manner.

You will not be able to change your partner..but you can change yourself..and hence will inadvertently change her behaviors however...if she does not get healthy mentally on her own to do the same...she will continue to seek out behavoirs that will enable her to fulfil her needs from someone who is willing to comply.

This is called...behavior modification in its simplest form...we are made of "behaviors" when we stop behaving we are dead.

Our behavoirs stem from past experiences that effect and shape us and our own future experiences. We have learned that when something happens and experience occurs....an antecedent behavior...determines our own behavoir and our response....then there is a consequence of that behavoir or response. These determine how we will behave, and respond to experiences....the thing is...this could be for pleasant or unpleasant, healthy or unhealthy depending on our state of mind at the time. So...I hope that Im not lecturing here...but just giving some insight as to what needs to occur to help each other reach mutual goals and aspirations for oneselves and together in a relationship.

You have taken a major step to changing past experiences...and your behavior so..that is a major feat...you should be proud and hold that close to you!! What ever comes of this can only be positve as it a positive healthy change that you are seeking!! Good luck..and we are here to give support and encouragment what ever decisions you make!

Well...must be going to kids are coming back from outside and it will be fun...more Hot Chocolate!!

Have a great day all.,...

oh...and Lori, Soo soo very happy that your daughter was doing better and the medication has worked to stop contractions and she was home for Christmas. I hope you all had a peaceful enjoyable weekend.

Prayers are with you for throughout the season and she should carry until what we say....."a good time".

Well....just wanted to say....Merry Christmas was so glad you posted... I will keep her in our prayers.

Jodi

HI all...wow...I have been enjoying reading all your wonderful amazing christmas stories...of being with family and friends and celebrations from the preperations and shopping to the cooking and the days goings on from the start to the finish...and I feel like ive been with all of you in each of your homes..and am so thankful that you have all shared your personal experiences with me and everyone else.....I truly for the first time have expererienced Christmas!!!

What a wonderful holiday!!!

Hope your New Years is just as well....and youl keep those experiences coming because it sure is boring here in the five towns of Nasau County!!! No Christmas or New Years celebrations and you all have got me in the um Christmas mood!! lol. So...wishing you all a wonderful weeks Christmas and may all your dreams come true. I wont bore you with my num drum life...its been the usual, stresful unpredicatble and so very boring compared!! So keep the stories coming!!!

Tina....my experiences demonstrate that we need to make our own good time. I feel your pain...weve all been lonely at times...but its when this loneliness infringess on our daily functioning we need to worry and get help. Youve gotten yourself this help and started the process of healing yourself so that you can begin to function in your daily routines....and the process keeps going until we dont feel lonely anymore and feel comfortable enough to spend time with yourself and be able to spend time with yourself and be happy enough to enjoy spending time with yourself even on holidays even though your mom isnt around anymore to be with you...you will begin to develop new experiences and create new memories. Wishing all the above for you this year. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. May all your dreams come true.

Yeah, life goes from the sublime, to the ridiculous, to the dreadful. My Christmas concert was sublime. The mashed potatoes were ridiculous, and my students deaths were dreadful. If I'm not going to get into the food over any one of these I have to fully experience and be present in all situations.

One thing I learned this Christmas that I intend to use going forward, is that playing games relieves social anxiety. I hate sitting around and just talking. I keep getting up and replenishing my plate because I need to move around and do something. I had great parties at my house and less anxiety because of playing "Catch Phrase." My sister had an old version of the game at her house and we even played it last night. She hauled it out after hearing me talk about the fun we'd had and how I'd meant to take my game with just in case. My poor father, with his Alzheimer's was terrible at it and my mother wasn't much better. She just couldn't think fast enough. But Kris's teenage girls played with us, and even Olivia, who has expressive language issues, did pretty good. The Wii has a similar effect for people. I didn't used to be a game player, but I've been having fun with this game. It's good for people with ADHD because it moves so fast. I even can stand up and move around a lot when its my turn or if I want to hear someone on my team give their clues. Then I can focus and concentrate. Charades can be fun and pictionary, too.

So Janet, when I say I eat in order to sit still, and I eat to relieve my social anxiety, and I eat in order to focus or concentrate, you can see part of the reason why I gained weight. I live in fear of impulsively saying the wrong thing. It goes with the ADHD. Thought in head comes out the mouth with no filter. Person is offended and relationship is damaged. food in mouth becomes the filter. Food also helps me fight the claustrophobia of being confined. I need to move. I am very restless. The food and the extra weight helped me stay in one place which is much more acceptable socially. Sometimes at work, in order to stay in the room and keep teaching, I have to have something in my mouth to suck or chew or crunch. Trying to keep those choices healthy is hard. I have to eat to the point of satiety, where something in my brain finally goes "Click" before I can focus. So food is my ADHD medicine.

I am giving myself permission to move around a lot more, and now that the weight is off its much easier. I remind myself that I don't need to stay and talk to people. I go in another room to get away. I don't have to sit around. If I need to circle aimlessly between groups its OK. At school I have a cup of coffee in my hand constantly and I'm constantly running upstairs to the microwave to reheat it. Then I set it down somewhere and lose it and spend time finding it. I teach standing and circling a lot more than I did.

I'm debating whether or not I need to get on meds again for the ADHD. I have a lot of compensating behaviors but the food is really hard to stay out of. Impulsive eating to medicate my ADHD has been the chief culprit for my weight troubles. I'm going to the Dr. on Tues. and I'm going to talk to her about it. The urge to eat has just been overwhelming and I don't want to undo all the good I've done.

Cheri

Cherri..I am hearing the anxiety in your voice as well....and you have been through so much emotional stress these past few months that its no wonder you feeling slightely blue....taking everyones problems and emotions on to your shoulders. Im so sorry about those beutiful children that lives have been cut down short but you have to keep it together for yourself and your familiy! May god bless you for all the wonderful things you do for so many children and families. Chin up. We love you and all that you do....it will get better and if you need some medication then get it...nothing to be ashamed at at all!!!

Happy Festivities all....thank you for all the lovely Holiday cards and good wishes!!

Jodi

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Hi all.,

I want to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas!!!!

Thank you everyone for all your beutiful cards and wishes!!! Dassi has appropriated all the cards as she has never seen such beutiful cards in our house before....hmm. So she is admiring all of them and has promptly put them on top of her card collection!!

Thank you....

Um....I really would like to have gotten cards out to all of you..however....I would not be a very good person if I lied and said I will....because I wont....Im not good about sending anything out at all....not bday cards, not wedding cards, not anything....if I cant hand it to you....its really not happening....so I will have to see each and every one of yous....to give you your own personal card at that time!!! And that is a promise.

I wish everyone a wonderful weekend...with family and friends. You should gather together and thank god...for being together and able to spend such a wonderful time together....for those who cant be with loved ones at this time....make sure you call and say...I love you and how much they mean to you.

Enjoy all the festivities and dont eat so much junk!!! NO fruit CAKE!

Ive been extremely busy working on some new programs for several new children for our ABA program. Since the workshp have been bombarded with teachers calling all day with questions regarding the program as well...so not a moment to spare. So sorry....

went to surgeon today and.....I was suprised that I am 145 and did not gain weight over the last two weeks....since beng sick and no gym last week and not eating great...and getting stuck....thought for sure id gained some pounds...but nope didnt. Yea. I guess even though i wasnt great....I really wasnt all that bad as I thought...I was watching though sooo I guess that helped.

Well....I must go to sleep. Wanted to get that Christmas Wish out to everyone before people departed on to their destinations!

Again.....MERRY CHRISMAS TO ALL OF YOU WONDEFUL AMAZING FRIENDS, MAY ALL YOUR DREAMS AND WISHES COME TRUE!!!

Jodi

Hey guys,

Just got banded but would like/ need someone to tell my fears issues and goals if anyone is interested shoot me a pm

Thanks!

Hi..come into the "Im here to help" thread...there will be plenty who will give plenty of great support and whom will listen to all your fears, issues and goals...promise!!

Well prime rib it is, Smiths (Krogers here) had it on sale for $5.99/lb. I am comfortable making that and it always turns out yummy. Plus I am getting an early visit from Santa! I've been wanting new white dishes ever since DD got some for her wedding (she has the square food Network ones from Kohls if you know them) but it was just a want and not a real need. I tend to tire of dishes easily and always want new ones, but my thinking is white will be so versatile and I can always change up colors to go with it. Then I saw my exact dishes (cheapies from Walmart) on the news one night for having lead in them so I've wanted them more lately. Well seems DH was thinking of getting me some and we saw some at costco sortta like the Kohl's ones but a little different and are going to go pick them up this afternoon. What a guy! Now do I want service for 8 or 12? Usually do 8 but with the family growing, HMMMM??? They are really cheap so may go with the 12.

go with the 12! With the family growing there will be surely one or two that end up breaking!!

Thank you all you sisters and mommas. It was an awesome experience and I finished in my own record time 45 min. I am amazed at how far I have come. So is hubby. He told me he used to have to walk slow when walking next to me so I could keep up. Now he struggles to keep up with me. My brother fished in 19 minutes! My dad showed up with his girlfriend and another friend to cheer me on. I had quite a cheering squad as I crossed. I posted a video to you tube, You can click on the link in my signature if you wanna see me cross the finish line. I am walking on cloud 9 right now. There were 3000 runners there. I never saw my doc but that doesn't mean he wasn't there. I will ask him about it on my next visit.

Thats so cool! Wow>...THATS amazing....must have been a great feeling. Hold that with you always!! Youve worked so hard you deserve it!!

Apples....20 inches?? I hope you are toasty warm and stay inside!! And I complain about NY! Shame on me!

Julie....wish there was some magic pill but there is none...that I can offer.....meditation?? Not magic but..hypnotising?

Hugs and kisses.....to you!

well...had a girls weekend out. Dassi had a fabulous time at the grandparents and.. I had a great weekend in the city with my friend Renee.....Friday we went to dinner in China Town...and Sat......we went for Breakfast, then we went shopping to this great coat and dress warehouse...as it was def. time to get a new coat for winter....it wasnt getting any warmer out and i still hadnt gotten a new colat for my new size!! Dont know what I was waiting for but....was holding off till....I guess the right time. In any case.....just the right time to as....it just so happens that as we got there they got a new shipment in of Dana Buchman coats and bombers....the ones shown on the runway for winter!!!

OMG....they were fabulous. Fur lined....and down filled...for about 80-150 bucks each!!!

Now the story goes with this place....which is totally off the beaten path...you need a car and guts to park anywhere on the streets....and the coats and shoes....kind of just maybe fell off the truck somehow....is what people figure...cause there aint no way these 800-1000 dolllar coats are being sold for 100 a piece or so.....just like that when they are in the dept stores for the later prices. So....I snagged two...one casual and the one with fur lined the whole way through with the collar and cuffs as well.....and a down parker..thigh lenght so I can wear with skirts or pants.....got home checked them out online and woo hoo.....1200 bucks for the ur lined....6oo something for the other....

IM LIKE WHAT?????

Found out about this place from my friends friends friends friends...etc etc.....but it was always hit or miss....found some nine west boots there once...but nothing major but this week....pay dirt for us....the woman behind the counter....was like...if you like it take it cause tomorrow theyd be gone, gone, gone. Wasnt thinking tiwice....so im a happy camper. Love my new shabbos coat that I bought um on um well....anyways.....ill probably burn in hell for that....but not thinking about the guilt now....now im happy tomorrow ill feel all guilty.

Last night...we went to this Birthday Bash...of a friend of mine that I met last year. She is also a single parent in my neighborhood..wasnt thinking of going but figured if Dassi isnt around and im hanging anyway in the city...why not? SO, Renee and I went to this party...it was okay but, we didnt stay long...it was the same ole same ole...people that we both new from like 20 yrs ago who either are now divorced......or never married..and the woman were just so....Jappy and well...not so nice so we left early and went to eat again in the east villiiage....that was fun! Thai food..where of course I got stuck after two bites and that was the end of that meal. .lol

This morning went to work as I didnt go for two days last week....and well...needed to make some money up from the after work kids..that are contracted....so saw two kids and now only need to make up two sessions back this week somtime....not sure if that will happen but better then no sessions....for a week thats alot of extra money that isnt really extra.

This afternoon.....was amazing...Dassi had her first karate tournament and came first place in kattas and second place in sparring.. We were all so proud of her!! My parents came and two friends of hers came to watch and as it turned out my brother, sister in law and niece and nephew came to watch their friends kids not knowing that Dassi was going to be in the tournament as well so they told her they heard that she was going to be in it and decided to suprised her with coming.....that was nice of them....wonder though if they would have come had their friends kids werent there.....would they have come to see her if id have invited them??? hmmm. Highely dought that but...hey one can always be suprised I suppose!!! But who cares....she felt very happy that everyone came to support her and so....im very happy for her as well.....went all out to eat afterwards....no problems with this side of family they all eat kosher!! lol

So....im sure you are all wondering about whats going on with Jeff....and LV...well, in the romance dept. that is never ever going to happen decided after a month of ridiculous....same ole same ole really same crap that nothing had changed whatsoever....LV was a honeymoon....as I suspected and that week was great but...nothing great since then once again except empty promises and listening all about "Jeff" to the point that when I was sick this week....he didnt even once ask how I was.....feeling....even after tellling him numerous of times...that I didnt go to work....went to doctors....felt sick, came home from work....but.....he wasnt listening to me...just wanted to tell me about whats with him and the projects hes working on and on and on and tooting his horn about all the wonderful things hes doing for all the autistic children in the world just by being him,....am I being a little much??? noooo, not really. not exagerating.....at all. So...its been about hmmm a month allready where I decided nope....this is not going to happen again...and kind of turned off and began to tune out....and this past week....clincher....and so....just had it out with him and told him...this isnt going to happen...but if you want me to work with you on several projects and hire me, send me a contract and il be glad to work with you as you have requested. If not interested then thats fine.....good luck and dont contact me again. Not interested in a personal relationship.....self ritous pompous @$$. no need to go further but...wasnt even aware that I was even a bit pertubed at the conversations we had or hadnt been having over the last two months since LV.

I told you all...wasnt going to let myself get taken in again.....but did.....and now getting myself the heck out but quick!

Not even want to work with him....but it could be really good for me financially and a great experience for both myself and Dassi if this thing does come to fruition. If it does it will be on my terms and only then....but if it doesnt....se la vi......no harm done.

Okay....must run downstairs...as if you recall the reason for going away this weeked was because they were doing my bathroom over....and so they did...but um the new toilet and handles in the shower not yet!!! Must use an empty apt bath and shower till tomorrow night...I hope afterwhich ill be able to clean up this dusty place and use my own toilet!!!

(not happy) but, at least there is an empty apt to use for now!

Have a great week all....enjpy all the starting of Christmas celebrations and cooking,shoppings and goings on...so loving hearing about all of the goings on .....keep them coming they are so wonderful...with good and happy spirits!!!

Jodi

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okay still have not figured this font/color/size but whatever.....

Hi everyyone...

Janet glad you are back safe and sound.....

Cherri....I just want to give you hugs and kisses...please take care of yourself through all this and perhaps you should make sure that you also take care of your mental health and see that you recieve some emotional support at this time....you cannot be the only one to do this for so many little ones. Hugs and Kisses

Joyce,...Happy Chanucka to you and your husband as well.....thanks. I hear KC has some interesting celebrations going on!

Great....glad to hear your day with DD went well and you enjoyed special time!

Apples.....perhaps the reason why so many people retire to warmer weather places is because as we get older the colder gets bolder!

Jessica, So glad your doctor is going on the run with you.,..thats support

Phyl...I love baileys...lol. Used to keep that and a bottle of Amaretto under my bed at colllege. Brings back good memoires....I like the sweet stuff....and creamy....could drink the whole bottle of either...in the old days!

Tex,,,sorry about the shoulder and back...prayers to you for your dad. Glad your wifes finger is feeling better

Dont know whom im missing...i know there was more to respond so sorry.....

Well....another three days and Chanukah will be over. So far...Dassi got everything she wanted....and then some lol.

what she wasnt expecting.....a new karate Ghee.....a private lesson that I told her was from her father whom I know would have wanted her to have that....so I said was really from him...she liked that. A camp reunion on Monday that consisted on Bowling, ice skating, dinner and concert with camp friends. That was expensive but well worth the days activtites.....

I am under the weather....apparently touch of the flu perhaps....so peeved that the day I take off my soap operas.....cancelled for a state of the union....oy. well whatever....got the needed rest.

Making cajun salmon tonight...Dassi actually has asked for it....so of course I am obliged!!!

I seem to be getting stuck on everything these last week...no matter what I eat I get stuck.....im sure its because I am sick and maybe swollen. Im going to the surgeon on the 22nd if I still feel bad then im going to ask for an unfil...just havent felt right since last fill and its really touch and go....but this past week not so good.....and resorting to shakes and Protein Bars not so good......

welll no art at school today.....so need to cook dinner now and have ready by 5:30.

This weekend need to get out of the apt....because they are redoing my bathroom!!! yea. so..Dassi is going to my parents and I am going to the city......for a girls weekend with Renne.....she lives...on the LES. so lots to do and see this time of the year. Hope ill be feeling better by then!

okay have a good night all...

Jodi

Melissa....Congratulations on the new addition to the family. Always nice to have newborns around...so cute and cuddly. sorry about the cold. Feel better soon.

Good Morning....

Jodi...Happy Chanukah. I see you spell it differently than most. Gosh...your post about everything going on during these days just makes me want to learn more about your traditions, etc. I feel like I'm taking a peek into a whole different world. Take care of yourself. Don't get run down. Sounds like you do not have troubles turning down food that you feel you should not have. Good for you. Hopefully you can fit the gym in somewhere like you want to. Sounds like a crazy/busy week for you. At least your time is limited to a number of days...the rest of us drag out Chrismas for way too long.

Melissa...congrats on the new nephew. Hope you don't wake up sick from that cold.

Meredith...advice your nutritionist gave you sounds like a plan. Don't over do though...you don't want that to be your ticket to overeat...your "Get out of Jail Free" card. It would be nice to hear that you do not need band repair but it sounds like that is what the plan is. We'll all be here for you holding your hand throughout this.

Kelly...wish we were neighbors...I would absolutely love to go on walks a couple of times a day with you. It's so bitter cold here that there is no going out to walk or ride bike. I have a nice treadmill but just not the same and have a hard time forcing myself to walk on it. In a month we will be in warmer weather and plan on working off some of this stress with walking. If I bundled up, I could walk but we have so much ice under the snow that it's not worth a fall.

We sure do miss Janet, don't we? Hope she is having a great time.

Phyll...are you down and out with the cold????

"Hi" to everyone else and good morning.

Have a busy day ahead. Some Christmas baking, some decorating, some cleaning, some bookwork, some laundry. Have to take DH to doc in early afternoon to have a growth cut out of his face by his eye. He did have an appt at 4pm and then we were going to stick around town and go out for dinner. Well, appt was changed to 1pm and will just come home. I doubt we will get out once we get home. Just so hard to force ourselves to go out in this cold. And, just heard a severe winter storm is expected for our area for later this afternoon. DON'T WORRY, GREAT, IF YOU ARE READING THIS. MPLS IS NOT IN THE WARNING...JUST SNOW FLURRIES LATE IN THE AFTERNOON.

Have fun with your DD, Great. Times like this, I wish I had a daughter to do things with...No...would be dangerous with both of us shopping.

Trying to plan a girls night for me and my friend and get out of Dodge for a bit. She is in a real funk (relationship breakup, moved, financial stress, was laid off 18 months ago and still not a job) and needs a break from it. Well, the only night that works for both of us is Tuesday. Soooooooooooo gotta figure out some things to do that do not involve spending $$$ and a Tuesday night not much entertainment options. My plan so for us to rent a Holiday Inn room (my Chrismas gift to her and she Ok'd it....didn't want her to feel bad), pack a picnic lunch, bring a couple of board games and cards and a bottle of wine (gosh...almost sounds like I should be taking DH instead), and just giggle and have fun and hopefully leave our troubles along the way.

Better get moving...been up for 1 1/2 hours and the only thing I have accomplished is to make coffee and oatmeal...You all have a great day.

Thank you for the chanuka wishes...yes there are several different ways to spell this holiday..depending on how religous you are...pretty silly to me but seems to be something that hasnt changed over the years. No spelling I found is wrong so far so you are also correct!! lol.

Yes, this is the holiday of keeping the jewish traditions alive...unlike during the haloucaust times where they wanted to kill all the jewish people here...the greeks wanted the jewish people to give up their practice and assimilate and they didnt so that is one reason we Celebrate the other is because when the greeks or romans came into the temple to destroy it there was only a bit of oil to light an menorah that stayed lit always and was never extinguished....so this little bit of oil that was left until they can make more lasted eight full days as apposed to only one day. This was the miracle of chanuka....so we Celebrate twofold. As to where presents came from?? Its only an american tradition. We do because we dont want the children to feel bad about not getting presents at the same time each year when christmas falls out and everyone gets presents at that time...so the kids shouldnt feel bad or jealous this traditon started. Not a good precedent that was started lol. It used to be one present for all of chanuka ...now its one per day and then some....lol. You know how out of control the holiday season makes us all...but the real celebrations is families getting together and lighting the candles everynight together, singing and eating and partying....Shabbat Chanuka is especially celebratory so lots of stuff goes on in the community in each synaguage to celebrate. We are going to famiily dinner tonight and a big lunch tomorrow...where for both all the kids are invitied to bring games and stuff to play after dinner and lunch tomorrow. No cooking yea....so hence this posting. lol

Sounds like a fun time with your friend....have fun and remember....watching a good tear jerker movie is fun to do as well...I have my friend Renee who sometimes we just go and find a hotel somewhere outside of NY just to get away from it all and wing it for the night or two....havent had one of these in about hmmm two years....since we went to Fire Island this summer. No extra cash for either of us and Dassi is pretty much home most shabboses any ways....

so sounds like you have a fun plan...enjoy!!!!

What sort of baking do you do for christmas?? I know the nurses from St vincent and St. Lucia bring me every year a fruit cake that they make which apparently takes about a month two make...with liquor and such. cant wait to have a piece of....oh wait a minuet...hmmm. Ill have to think about this one real good. hmmm. okay then...perhaps ill just have one bite of a piece and give the rest to Dassi....oh you know that isnt happening....illl have to plan that days food and exercise real good. lol.

Kelly...wish we were neighbors...I would absolutely love to go on walks a couple of times a day with you. It's so bitter cold here that there is no going out to walk or ride bike. I have a nice treadmill but just not the same and have a hard time forcing myself to walk on it. In a month we will be in warmer weather and plan on working off some of this stress with walking. If I bundled up, I could walk but we have so much ice under the snow that it's not worth a fall.

Apples, I am the same way. Maybe try putting your treadmill right in front of the picture window. I find if I can daydream out the window the treadmill becomes easier for me. I know, I know, it isn’t very attractive to have a big old clunky treadmill in the frontroom but who cares? Remember, it’s all about you. Your girls night out sounds wonderful! Don’t forget your swimming suits – the hot tub is wonderful this time of year.

I am doing great. I haven’t posted much lately because I have been really busy Christmas shopping and going to exercise. I have the shopping almost done. We still have some kids to buy for from the letters to Santa program out local paper runs. My husband gets such a thrill from this. I enjoy it too but it has special meaning for him because when he was a child he received presents through the church and sadly, those were the only presents he received. His family was very poor. Believe it or not, this program makes his Christmas! He even buys extra presents to take to the school just in case a child does not have their letter answered. It warms my heart to see this side of DH.

Exercise has been going well. I have worked with my trainer 2X a week since April and I can’t believe the difference it has made in me. I can’t believe how weak and out of shape I had become. I am so grateful for the trainer I have. I feel like she has given me a new life. What am I saying, she has given me a new life. The little things amaze me and make me happy. For instance, I went to Sam’s club to get dog food yesterday and I was able to pick up the bag and put it in the car without asking for help. It has been many years since I could do that. Silly, I know, but it thrilled me.

I am going to start TRX classes. My trainer teaches them at our gym and she told me yesterday that the classes were hard but I was ready for them. Who would have ever thought I would be taking “hard” classes. I have to think of a good Christmas gift for this girl.[/i

WOW..this is such a special traditon that you do...what a special thing to do for giving presents out to families that are in need around christmas time. Im sure it feels good to give back to the church and you are keeping this tradition alive to more children and famiilies can benefit. What a special gift.

Good going on the exercise.....I also didnt think I was ready for the classes at the gym but the trainier basically said you are! So, listen to the trainer she knows you and your capabilities....try them you will feel awkward maybe at first but...then youl get it...it will take a while and many classes but remember there is no rush...you dont have to look and wont like everyone else at first....after a while you wont feel different at all and even then if so so what???? No one is going to be looking at you but you!!! Have fun enjoy and get the epson salts ready.....and clean that bathtub youl need it lol.

Good Morning!!!

I was so tired last night, I could hardly function! I feel better now after a good nights rest. I needed it. Bad. Just thought I would ck in real quick before heading off to work.

Apples~ I am not going to overeat. In fact, since I've had discussions with all of you on here and since I went to my support group meeting, I've been doing so much better with my eating and really watching it. I think I was just really stressed out after my last Dr visit that I started stress eating. Now, I am actually back on track and have lost a pound since Tuesday. So, I suppose with the right mind set, I should be ok. I will get to talk to my dietitian more tomorrow since she is coming in with me to get her hair cut, colored and styled for a holiday ball she is going to.

Arlene~ Thanks for the positive encouragement! It really helps! I've been going to daily plate (now livestrong.com) and tracking my meals and calories for the last 3 days. It helps. Also, tonight I'm going to go to my 24 hour gym and ride the bike and do some dumb bell exercises that I learned in my sculpt stretch and tone class at school. My dad and I have discussions about men leaving their wives after 30+ years or whatever and he blames it on Viagra. Maybe thats why they think they are 30? SO glad my parents are still together. That would be hard as an adult to go through a separation of parents (if your friend has children).

Kelly~ You go girl on the two walks per day!!! Thats awesome! My sister has a weiner dog too. His name is Brady and he is long haired. Adorable.

Speaking of dogs, some of you may have seen on my fb that my sisters other dog Wallace had to have surgery yesterday. Please keep him in your prayers as I love this pup sooo much! They thought that he had a blockage in his colon (they thought it was fabric) and it wasn't passing for days, so finally they decided to open him up and get it out. Turns out it wasn't a blockage at all and his spleen had flipped around in his belly (spleen torosion). They removed it. Thank God they opened him up because otherwise he would have died. We were very nervous because he is also epilleptic and has to take a pretty large amount of phenol barbetol to survive and not have seizures.

Ok, off to work! Have a great day. It is freeeezing here! Not as cold as you apples, but this cold snap hit us fast!

~Meredith

Like Jodi, unable to change font and color. Oh well......

Lots of very busy ladies (and Chris). I'm leaving for Water aerobics. M,W,F with a friend. It's about time. Janet will be proud of me.

Joyce, If you will just click the box of "fast reply" at the bottom then click on size( i use 4) you should be able to change size and color. I click color then size and start my reply.

Meredith, there is some truth to the Viagra thing. My friend has two children in their mid twenties. They did not want their dad at the Thanksgiving get together. He is already suffering the consequences of his actions.

I am boiling eggs for Snacks. CBL!

Yes, thank you...you have reminded me...went to Trader Joes and forgot to buy my bag of cage free hard boiled eggs so needed to cook some up.

Okay.....must run to light chanuka candles and shabbos candles and give out presents and then.....dressed for dinner!

Have a great weekend all

happy shopping!!!

Jodi

Hi...again have no freaken idea....how to navigate this site....and no time to fiddle with it....so sorry everyone for the typical font and reply style. lol so unlike me which is the reason for the apology.

Its been a week since posting and well.....it hasnt been a great week for food, exercize or Water....but am getting back on the saddle tomorrow AM....rather the seat of the cycle at the gym. Foods havent been horrid just eating Proteins and shakes and not enough vegetables and water.....Ive been so busy running around buying presents and supervising that I have no idea if im coming or going.....I thought this would be the easiest holiday to deal with but......I realize its so much easier to shop, cook and have off from work but nooooo going to work run around after looking for presents in a million different places and going to one party and celebration at this ones house or that ones...or dinners out etc has taken its toll and im just plain tired!!! Of course its a wonderful holiday...but all the running....and partying and its only just begun...eight more nights!! I am just thankful there is school all day otherwise...in addition to busy and tired Id be totally broke with a babyisitter in addtion to all the presents and goings on...lol

This weekend we are going to our synaguage for chanuka dinner tomorow night....that should be fun and nice. Sat lunch is at another shul. That should be fun too....if course this means I wont have anything to eat good for me....but I have prepared one of Phyllis what I call famous BBQ chickens!! Thanks again..saving me. So at least I know ill go home and eat if there is nada...and I know what shabbos dinners are about soooo I know there wont be anything for me.

Sat night im the car pool mom, my turn to drive to and from Bat Mitzvah about 45 min away....where I will be twiddling my thumbs wating around for three hours....probably go shopping for more presents at that time....

Sunday is our family chanuka party at my brothers house....I am hoping for some serious alcohol or other to help with the drama that im sure will happen at that party!

Of course its all in the spirit of chanuka ....so im sucking it all up and running, running, running!!!

I see everyone is getting ready for Christmas....and I love reading about all your plans....jealous of the great decorating and table settings and the gettings ready....cant wait to hear about all the fabulous christmas eve and morning stories with everyone and their families....

well...

must run its late and exhausted.....welcome to the newbys....and have a great holiday...and remember

WHEN YOU FAIL TO PLAN YOU PLAN TO FAIL (like me this week)

Okay....have a great night......

Jodi

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Hi all....just checking in.....trying to navigate new site still but to no avail....why cant I find how to change font and color for always...so frustrating..will get it some time soon in the meantime will have to suck it up. [/size

okay...then

Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving and remembered to "Plan". Its been a lovely weekend...here. Today we went to see "Wintuk" Cirque de solei...it was nice. Dassi liked it. I prefer a real musical. But for the kids this was a nice change. Went to dinner afterwards without the familly...too much drama as usual.

relligious practice....its that time of decision making....

Dassi decided recently she wants only to eat Kosher outside the house as well and tonight the familly who doesnt eat Kosher at all decided...well they just didnt want to so....I said thats okay you all can go out together and Dassi and I will go out ourselves. Not even going to discuss the words I had with them all but no matter.....Dassi knows that I will support her regardless of whether I think she is right or wrong....im her mother and unless its dangerous..to herself or others then there is no reason to not support her beliefs and endeavors....in this case Im setting her up to learn not to eat out etc etc and so therefefore I must support her decisions and if anyone cares to differ or try to sway.,..hahh. Try me. Dassi us old enough to find out what will happen when she is not going to be supported by people that dont think the way she is or practices religion the way she has been taught and brought up with. I told her that the family at large would not support her decision and say..well thats nice but when your with us too bad youl do as we wish. Well she didnt want to take that ...so she stuck to her guns explained herself and said she didnt care to join them in that case any ways. lol. I agreed and rewarded her couragous standing up for what she felt was right...with her favorite restaurant, Cost 65 bucks but she deserved it. I let everyone know that as her mother I support her decision and although I may not myself keep kpsher out the house I respect her wishes and we would not be going out any longer in NY wherre there are plenty of kosher places to eat when eating out....suffice to say we wont be eating out to frequently any more. lol.

Other then the above the weekend was farely nice...I started learning basics of "Zumba" at home from a DVD and that is this weeks project. Foods was good..exercise sucked....but this is a new week and a new goal to reach....three times at least cardio!!! This is my plan!!!

Well.....I must get to slleep. wanted to catch up...quiet I see. Well have a great week.....

Jodi

okay much to tired to play around with this new...site. I have just only begun to get used to old one boohoo. Maybe sometime soon will figure this one!

Wanted to wish you all a happy Thanksgiving day! We are going to my sisters house where I will be looking to escape the cat allergies olmost as soon as we arrive. lol. Cant wait to experience some drama....but after this weeks drama at work......well I can handle my family I think.

Am making "pumpkin soup" well....actually Dassi is making "Pumpkin Soup" I will be assisting.

Have been extremely busy this week with um kind of everything that isnt what should have been busy with. lol I hope that scenario ends tonight.

Tonight we helped with Thanksgiving dinner at an organization that Im involved with that hosts Thanksgiving dinner for several homeless shelters at the center that houses all the jewish student organizations that I was involved with when in college. I am an alumni so am invovled with several events that occur yearly. Thanksgiving dinner for the shelters is one of them. Dassi loves going and so....weve been going every year for the past three. She really outdid herself this year....she brought three friends of hers with...and the three of them really made the day...they worked so hard and were so pooped after they all fell asleep on the way home. It was good evening. I got to see some friends who havent seen in a year and it was enjoyable to do something good for others with Dassi together.

This week...finially the scale started moving again...its been two months at 148 finaiily down to 144 this past week. Ive been really trying and being tight....well that helped im sure as well because im just not eating alot and im not hungry. Im not as tight as I was two weeks ago when I thought about an unfil....I guess those four pounds made that difference jsut like you all said it was....perhaps this is what restriction really feels like?! As long as im not getting stuck all the time and no Pbing, sliming or thank god or anything like throwing up after that one time that second day after fill...I guess its all good. If I feel stuck at all this week however...next week I go to Surgeon and will think about a slight unfill.

Well...it is way late so best be getting to sleep. Will be meeting with a party planner for ideas for Dassi Bat mitzvah....which she has allready planned out...so better get moving before she spends all the money herself on it by herself. lol. Shes allready got the budget down....hmm. Her head counselor at camp is the party planner....she has refused to take any money from me...so ill have to figure out how to pay her.....even if she just helps with ideas and such I need to do something for her....I hate it when everyone wants to do for us because of "our" situation. I understand this is their chessed....charity project....but im used to be the one to do the chessed projects for others...I hate being a chessed project myself. It reminds me that yes....I am also a widow, divorcee etc Yes Dassi is a fatherless but um i hate being reminded of that...and would love to be able to say oh no I can well afford to pay you....and so thats that...but its not as if I have that luxery to say that...and even not needing a party planner she has insisted on offering her services....so why should I deny Dassi something that perhaps she can think of that I cant...as I aint no party planner!! lol. and I really dont know anything about this party type of the neighborhood we are living in now....just because im too proud! She deserves to have a great party and if I can do that using a planner that will allow me to get ideas that will not only inspire but will save me money in the end....Ill take it and find a way to pay her...if not with money with something else!! Doing this in the AM then off to my sister in the PM. Long day!! So must go to sleep.

Have a good one all.....and remember

"WHEN YOU FAIL TO PLAN YOU PLAN TO FAIL"

Gobble, Gobble

Jodi,

How cool for Dassi to do a commercial.

Nope that's not the case with my sisters, I have always gone when invited. I work it out somehow, as family was always so important to me. But now not so much. I will concentrate on my family meaning my kids and my new grandbaby. My kids already don't want much to do with them and they hardly have a relationship wiht them. Sad because they are the only 'kids' in the family.

It is sad...but just remember that famous saying and keep saying it....

"I am not responsible for other peoples actions".

Okay....after saying this....my mother just phoned and she is five minuets away!! Darn! need to get dressed. Now I need to say the above again. lol

Good Morning Gang...

Jodi - 1st thing I thought when read about Dassi doing commercial - was Bolonga isn't Kosher ;0)...

Yes..me too!!! ROTF.

Morning Gang! I am packed and ready to roll. I guess I will get the"pat down" today. DH always does because of his knees. My traveling son called this morning and asked if I was ready for a cavity search. I told him it shouldn't be any worse than a colonoscopy. He said EEEWWWW.....TMI. The joke was on him.

The weather here is great......same as Vegas only humidity.

I lost another lb, but found it. I haven't been able to go to the gym this week.....I have walked. I will be getting serious when I get back.

Okay peeps........I'll post on Friday night! I have my phone so you can always text me.

Love Y'all!!!!!!

Have a great trip.....Enjoy!!! Win big!!! or at least win!

Okay must get dressed..mom on her way to nurse me..... not good she isnt feeling well......who needs that ? lol

Love her but....

see above!!

Have a good day all

Jodi

Good Evening all..

Hope all is well.....Well..Dassi is feeling better thank you god. I am feeling so far fine..although mom not too well today.....hmm. She was with us all weekend. Not sure if thats a coincidence or it means a virus has struck! Hopefully it will have passed with me.

Went to my Tuesday weight class this afternoon. It was a good class. I like that class...its not arobic but....strength ?and resistance building using weights etc etc.

tomorrow morning im going to try boot camp instead of spin to see which class is better for me on Wed. I think on Fridays ill do cycling. Sunday morning step it up and yoga....so that will be one weights, two cardio, no three cardio and one weights. I guess I should do another weight class....or something for strength building....maybe on Thursdays I should do my own weight training..much like thr trainer did...independently and on Mondays....I need to do cardio as well but....I cant seem to get it together after the weekend to get to the gym in the AM...or PM for that matter. This is my plan for the week.....and next week and so on and so....lol This is the year for getting that program in place.....last year was about loosing the weight...this year about maintenance and exercise.....im so damn tired I cant think straight!

Nothing new on the contracts...wont be till after new years ill bet. Dassi got called for an audition for end of June.

A remake of the Oscar Mayer Wiener commercial. Well...I tried to explain to her what an icon of a jingle that orriginal was.....she just wasnt impressed. Kids.

I just think it will be funny.....her doing a bologna commercial.....glad she wont have to eat anything....as she wont do the commercial cause that aint Kosher she said. so true....

Well, good morning everyone! I really don't have any complaints. I do however, have to go to town today (yuk) I have several errands to run. The one I don't want to do is go to "Big Brands" tire place to get nitro in the tires and have them look at a buldge on one of the front tires:cursing:.

Then I'm off to the dr. to show them I don't have t.b.. Then over to the adult school to turn in my physical papers so I can get my books, and finally to the grocery store:rolleyes:.

Gonna try to walk two times today, I only walked once each of the last two days:eek:.

I know weather will be permitting because the next few days it will be around 70 degrees.

Well all for now!

Hi ho...you must either be going to school for teaching or health care something! TB.....we have to get a check every year at our physical. My primary only has one vial a year delivered and thats for my anual physical....always need that test with a 48 hr..return. Hate it. lol. Good Luck.

Jodi...good luck with getting your contracts in place for the program. What a good momma....sounds like you did just the right thing for poor little Dazzi. Stomach flu...yuk. Hope you don't get it. Do you keep anti-nausea meds on hand in case you do get it?

LauraK...oh good...according to you I have a little wiggle room and can whine a bit more on the thread.

Kelly...having to get new tires or repair ranks right up there with fixing the Water heater, Water conditioner, frig, dishwasher, etc. I don't like those surprise maintenance costs.

Here goes....*&^%$#@*(())))%%$##. Tomorrow about this time, all will be good.

NO...I didnt hear about any pill for anti nauseau....I should deff get some just in case. Do I need a script? What is the name of it? I will call primary tomorrow. Should have in house for sure. Thanks for that.

Okay everyone back from the LB Dr took 4.5cc out of my band. I am going to be on Prilosec for a while to get my stomach to settle down due to it is most likely irritated under the band from the acid, PBing and so forth. I have 3.3cc in my band like in the begining liquids till Wed. the soft/ mushie then start solids this weekend. I get to start over and this time follow correctly. Oh he was not surprised at the weight gain because of the issues.

I am go to my reg MD shortly cause I have had such a Migraine for two days and have not slept so she can give me a shot of toradol it is the only thing that really works. I might take tomorrow off to so I can get some rest I will keep you posted.

you see. Best to be safe...you were right to go to Dr. and now you can start again....and get back right on track!! Remember everyone reacts differently and you know now what you need to do when you dont feel quite right. We have to treat our bands with respect so to say.....lol. Hope you are feeling better!!!

Great...it's great that you will be getting back into your P90 routine again. I remember you posting about how much you worked out at home prior to your knew replacements. I sure will enjoy getting the old Lori back. What I mean by that is.....I miss your enthusiastic posts about your exercise routines and miss your positive posts about what you ate for the day. I really, really miss those posts.

I get email notifications from Coldwater Creek. I don't think I have ever ordered online from them but I clicked onto their clearance email that they sent me today. I looked thru all of their clearance items. OMG...really good deals and a lot of the items were for winter. Just wanted to share if anyone is looking for clothes at a good price. Worth a look. I didn't order anything (in need of nothing) but if I needed clothes, my shopping cart would have been filled up.

Feeling very nauseous from the Miralax and Dulcolax combination. Not tough drinking it but it is upsetting the stomach. Whine. Going to go lay down and might just have to take my first ever anti-nausea med. Bleck. )(*&^%#@$^%&

Oh I love coldwater creek. I can see you in all those great clothes...apples. Perfect for you.. Have you never seen any of there clothes? I was so addicted to every outfit that they have....I used to spend hours circleing outfits and the jewlery etc to match with the shoes and bags and belts...and saving up my pennies buy from the catalogs....now they have two stores close by but guess what??? I dont buy anything anymore because Im too darn busy to look at a catalog when it comes! lol. Besides the fact that have not bought anything new...really for the last 5 years...except from the thrifts lol. Hope you had fun!!!

Junking up the thread....

Just had to share another whine. I didn't have any poopcicles on hand so stopped and got some. Now, you have to realize we live 15 miles out. Red and grape are not allowed but orange is. So, as I am in the freezer section I am counting orange. OK...6 orange will get me through. I get home and there are 2! Damn the person who loaded that package.

Ewwww....Poor Girl! Hope today is better. It's not the stomach flu, is it?

Stupid, stupid Doctor. Cannot believe what he prescribed for me as a prep. NOTHING...until 11pm and I drank what I was supposed to early in the day. And his recipe didn't do much except for keep me from sleeping. Tired, hungry, feeling sick and pissed is not a good combo.

I might just get turned away. I had extreme nausea (upper stomach) all day long. I am not a person to ever lay down during the day. I could barely get off the couch after 5pm...that's how sick I was from that Miralax. Never again. And, he'll be lucky this morning if he can get the boot out of his A$$ after I tell him what I think of his cooked up plan of action.

you are braver then me...girl. I dont know if I would have gone through with that after realizing that they made me miserable for naught. With me you get one chance....if you screw it up you are history. Oh no....no no. You are too good. Id have really let them all have it. well....I do that often actually. I guess its a NYker thing to do. But....its over and like you said.....you will not go back to him again,...pompous ass that he was.

Thanks for the support Apples, aRlene and Janet. You are right I do need to step back, just gotta figure out how to go about it. My sisters do take care of her but are more than willilng to let me do the mundane stuff. They about panicked when I mentioned before moving about them doing her banking etc. Well now they have gotten themselves added on to her account 'for convenience' so now there's no excuse. one of the things I am upset over is where Grandma spends holidays. Every holiday since moving she has spent with them. Every time I ask I get the same old lines how she doesn't make plans or promises and then as the holiday approaches says I promised your sister, or I don't want to interfer on your family etc. So DSis is having Thanksgiving dinner. I am not even invited. However, was asked today if I would pick up grandma and bring her to their place as it would 'really help out' Are you freakin' kidding me??? Now how do I tactfully reply? If I say what I really want to say, then it will blow up, mom will get involved, Grandma will be hurt, etc. I just don't know. But I did not drive 600 miles for Thanksgiving just to help them out! I will have Thanksgiving with my inlaws anyway, but it would've been nice to have been invited and would've tried to work out to be both places. GRRRRRR Oh and already after we asked Grandma to spend Christmas eve with us, she is committed to my sisters as well, and you guessed it, we were not invited.

You are always doing for everyone Apples....always flying up and taking care of things...when you moved I remember you saying this was going to be the hardest part of the move.....

not being able to take care of GM. as you were...but you are entitled to live your life and not have to take care of the nitty gritty any longer....its someone elses turn and your turn to just come and enjoy those visits when you do visit without having to take care of errands etc etc. Human behavior is so predictable sometimes.....you knew they were going to expect you to still take on the same role that you always did...esp during the holidays.....you shook things up by moving....maybe they knew that you wouldnt spend the holidays with them anyways...because you never do so they thought why ask?? Thats lame but I know.....I dont ask my brother anymore to come for Friday night dinners or holidays because when I did ask it was always no thanks ....we are going to Lisas parents, friends, somewhere else....after a while....I just never ask....last year....my sister asked if I had asked him to come and I was like um um no. meantime.,..turns out they didnt go but because I didnt invite them they werent going to invite themselves. hmm

That showed me.....I felt bad...so we all kind o f fall into these behaviors and cant change the pattern....they are doing the same. im sorry that you are having such a hard time with them!! You deserve better.

Well...must go to sleep. Have a great night all.

Jodi

Hi all...good morning!

It was a wonderful weekend. The weather was absolutely gorgeous needed only a light jacket/coat.

My meeting went very well with the producer. If she is someone who is going to produce this show....ill be very happy to work with her. Jeff was happy as well...so on to the next step of finding the right network to pick it up. Again not holding my breadth until contracts are signed. lol Im not changing my life at all...and certainly making no plans for anyones future.

Today...am home with Dassi apparently who has a virus of some sort. Was throwing up yesturday afternoon with slight fever. I made her home remedy of pedialyte for the first 8 hrs. That seemed to help. At night she had crackers and some Soup this morning. I will be going to work at 2:30 after babysitter gets here.

Phyl I love that roasting recipe....what a great idea for shabbos for me....can put the roast in the oven before leaving for work and which on Friday is early early...day. Home by 1:30 and then the chicken would be ready...Have so little time after work since shabbat starts at 4:00-4:30 for about three months starting daylight saving time. Been looking for recipes like this for the winter!!!!

Thank you Thank you!!!

Okay....I got this post from the support group on Thursday..so posting for everyone

Here is my tips that ive heard and hopefully learned about the upcoming holiday season....to share

TEN COMMANDMENTS FOR LAB BANDERS FOR THE HOLIDAYS

1. Thou shalt not enter a party feeling hungry

2. Thou shalt not thing about the holidays being about food

3. Thou shalt not arrive at a party empty handed

4. Thou shalt not feel exhausted during the holiday season

5. Thou shalt not be unprepared during the holiday season

6. Thou shalt not EVER accept leftovers

7. Thou shalt not drink less than 80 ounces of "good Fluid: daily after reading this post

8. Thou shalt not disobey the 5% rule

9. Thou shalt not ever feel guilty

10. Thou shalt not forget their goals or the hard work they have allready accomplished

HEALTHY EATING FOR THE HOLIDAYS!

Ideas to get you through the season

1. Always be prepared

2. Location is everything! "Hang out" in a safe zone

3. Avoid leftovers at all costs

4. Its just another meal attidude.

5. Protein, protein, protein!

6. Half of the time, food cravings are the thirst in disquise.

7. Increase your exercise during the season.

8. "Buisness as usual" attidude.

9. No guilt- Relish ion your success.

Happy Holidays all.....

Hi everyone,

So So Sorry....its been such a busy week and any spare time has been at the gym so forgive me please for not posting in a week with all the meetings I had after work every night except Tuesday as well.....Im tired!! lol

I need someone to recap for me because I cannot sit here and read a weeks posts....ill kill myself lol

I do however want and need to hear how everyone is though so would appreciate some recapping....if someone would be ever so kind......

Ive gone to the gym every day this week!!! Yea.. Ive tried several new classes and OMG do I hurt. I decided that there is at least one class I really enjoy per day that is either arobic, conditioning or strengthening. SO...ive tried to figure that twice a week I can do weights....twice cardio arobics and once abs workout. I think this is a good plan for me....I dont love the damn tred and doing it alone. So far people have been really nice. The instructors are very knowledgable and "real". They really try to help so i dont feel helpless or a failure! This is the bestest.

I was at my support group on Thursday evening and we talked about Thanksgiving....and how important it is to make a plan.....cause as we know if we fail to plan we plan to fail.

Id like to take some time in the next week and see how people plan on dealing with the upcoming celebrations and tips about what we can do to avoid the pit falls of the foods that are going to be so readily available.

I will start tomorrow...lol cause its so darn late but do have some that were mentioned.....lets start here as well......

I also have something to post about the ten commandments of the holiday time for bandsters...will copy and post that as well...with some yummy healthy alternative recipes.< /span>

I did do this this week as well....and this ill say now...

There are several aplications for those who have blackberrys that track food, diet, fitness etc

I found one for free called "Sparkpeaple Tracker". You start with entering your present weight....your goal weight...then you can logg everyday every thing you eat....it calculates all the cal, carbs, fats and Proteins for you. Then you enter what exercise youve done....then you enter how much Water youve drunk during the day.....as you make your entried it tells you how many cal youve eaten, how much exercise youve done to counter the calories and then it tells you..how much you need to do more of something or less of something to reach your goal for that day.....

I like it as I dont have to think and calculate everything all day...and carry around a journal. It saves everything and tells you by what date..you will get to goal if you follow and track everything and do as follows...I checked several apps and this is the only one that also tracks water....and computes all and lets you know how much more excersize you need...more water or more food etc....

Check it out....

anyways...must go to sleep

Am meeting a producer tomorrow morning about a project Jeff is putting together in LV. Been busy with that as well and if that works out.....hmmmm Vegas here I come!!! lol

Hope everyone is well and is having a good weekend...

is there a new east coaster from NJ here??? I skimmed and saw something I think....Welcome to the newbys!!!

Jodi

Good Evening all....

Today I am still in pain!!! ouch, ouch and more ouch!

Even still went to a new class this morning. I woke up at 9 AM which was really 8 AM so....had plenty of time to make breakfast..walk the dog and get ready for the gym.

Dreamed last night about going to the gym and how much I got from it....must have been really hurting!! When I got up I knew even though I was hurting I had to go....So went to this class called "kick it up" I really liked it!!! Lots of kicking and punching. Arobics....for an hour!!! After I got home....I had to get into a hot, hot bath! It really did help..of course the Allieve did as well lol

Finished all my paperwork due this month...yea...Always on the 5th and the 8th. Due....so while I took Dassi to the shelter so she can volenteer...I did my paperwork in the car. Wont be able to do that come winter but now....it was okay. Need to remember to go physically and drop off the invoices tomorrow lol.

This week will be a busy busy week...have three meetings and need to think about the ABA homebased program and how im going to create and run that program. I dont like take on a project if I cant run it the best possible way....since there isnt much research on other programs of this type.....Its going to have to be....created and revamped as we go along....Ive got the basics of what Im looking for and will work from there.....its going to be a work in progress..excited about it...just sad that I have a full time job that needs to be attended to at the same time..lol. No matter my best thoughts and work come in the middle of the night anyways.

Hi Gang! I am pooped! The dinner was great! Well, I know why i have gained so much weight. I didn't know the color red makes you hungry.....lol.....another excuse...lol. I did not know the new color combination for Christmas is Red and Aqua. Yep, she had a tree with red and aqua poinsettas . I don't think I will be doing the "in" color scheme this year. All of the tables were gorgeous. Another "new" thing this year mesh ribbon. They loop it through the wire wreath frames and then add ornaments and greenery. It is really pretty.

I had several ladies compliment me on my weight loss. Several of us were in a weight loss bible study 2 1/2years ago before my banding.

Sandy......WTG!!!

Great.....have a wonderful time state "hopping"!!!

Laura.......so glad that Nels is doing so good in public school.

So sweet of you to give your cleaning lady Nel's toys. Doesn't feel good to give to those who really appreciate it? I bet her little girl lights up at Christmas.

Apples......I thought you were going to the lake. How's your mouth healing?

Joyce....so good to hear from you....we miss ya!

Julie.....I am glad you posted. I worry when i don't hear from you.

Linda......where are you? Miss ya!!!

Janet.....I didn't read the post, but I take you are closet cleaning today. I need to drag out the few winter things I have. I wonder if they still fit.

Okay, going to bed! Oops time changes tonight....I better stay up a little longer or I will be up at 4am.

Arlene.....this is so beutiful. What a fabulous idea....to decorate christmas tables..or thanksgiving tables....Gorgeous. Yours should have won. Unfortunately we dont have anything of the sort so it is especially interesting to me to see all the beutiful decorations that people make. Its a real talent. My shabbos table is the pretty traditional type...but people do pride themselves on setting a special shabbos table each week...but nothing like this!! Do you only use these items for Thanksgiving and Christmas? What a shame to use it only once or twice a year....but it does make it special and the memories attached are priceless im sure.

Are you going to use this setting or is it just for show? I hope not. Too beutiful not to!!

Im sorry to hear about your friends husband so sad.

Pretty table Arlene! Did you win anything? I didn't know there were 'in' colors for the holidays. Thought red and green were the norm. Shows what I know and how well I keep up with it. My goal this year is to open all my Christmas boxes, to first make sure nothing broke in the move and second to go through things and get rid of some. I have so much and so many boxes and so little room to put it out. May ask DD and DS if they want any of it that I don't and pitch it.

Jodi, good to get caught up with you. Are you and Jeff contemplating a move? Congrats on getting the position even though you didn't take it. sounds like you made the right choice for you but good to know that they wanted you.

Thanks..yes it was a good decision...interesting that you asked about Jeff at the same time as the position....you are wondering whether perhaps there is a connection there?? lol

Well.....you are a mother and mothers see these things dont they???

Well, Jeff would love for me to move to out to LV. Hes desperately trying to get me a job....hes come up with some really enticing ones so far....but none making me think yes....I can do this...however...however.....He is working on something really big and if he gets a contract with a major network...then Ill be moving real fast lol. Thats a job oppurtunity that I would not be able to refuse!! However.....however.....Im the extreme pessimist..until I see it in writing....with my name on it...its only a pipe dream and well until now...lots of pipe dreams..so im staying put!

But...yes, to that question he was deff a part of the "no thank you, not now" but, beleive you me..if they had offered double the salary I might have well considered it...maybe.

You're a trooper!! Can't believe what you've been through with your mouth!!

 

Phyl...

I sure do hope you feel better....but you havent physically felt well lately...perhaps that virus is a part of feeling this way....Whenever I get physically sick I get depressed. So...perhaps this is why you might be feeling this way....you also are settled in for the winter so to say....also a possible reason??

Of course...loosing someone so close is a deff posibility. I know this only first hand but each person internalizes expereinces differently...so please accept my deepest condolences.

Laura...I don't know if the advertsing on LBT is a territorial thing but understand your "Pissedoffness". For about two weeks I've been getting pop-up ads for delectible bakerys in the Mpls area. WTH????? On LBT???? They actually show exquisite looking Cookies, cakes, mini-pies, etc. I don't understand. If you have a tendency towards sweets it would surely make a person go to the pantry and grab a bag of Cookies or dig into the cake that is in the freezer.

Nope...not all three of my trees are decorated the same, Laura. My big livingroom tree is LOADED with the decorations for sons and us. The kitchen tree is just tall and skinny but cute and the family room tree is big decorated rustic with pine cones, rustic ribbons and such. I have had pre-lit trees since they first came out. I think my first was in 1988. I will never forget salivating over it in the Speigel catolague and thinking there is not way I would spend $800 on a pre-lit tree (now they are cheaper than cutting your own). Well, DH surprised me and told me to just to buy it. It is the one in my basement which just got moved down there last year....so we got our use out of it and will for years. Invested in the new one for the livingroom last year.

I look forward to the Christmas holidays all year long. I am always so sad on Christmas night knowing I need to wait for next for all the happy feelings. Silly...but I have always been this way. So many different parties, family getting together. Ppl we only see a few times a year, shopping for special things for special ppl, making homemade gifts and baked goods....All in all just a very happy time.

You enjoy your few hours of alone time. We have such good memories or taking the boys to Kennedy Space center....they were both "science and aeronautics guys" and their eyes were the size of quarters.

Arlene...hope the pain in your back eases.

Apples...I have no dought that your trees and your decorations are absolutely gorgeous. I would love to see pictures of everyones trees. Three trees??? wow. And what fabulous creative ideas...to instill memories for generations to come....sounds like such a lovely custom youve started.

Good Morning Gang..

Yep Apples - I contacted Linda on FB she's been traveling working - life stuff nothings wrong - I'm sorry I forgot to tell you all..

Didn't do anything yesterday but watch tv read ate and napped.. I love the time change - went to bed 9ish - got up at 6 ish - ready for the gym ;0)..

Arlene - table was beautiful !!!

Joyce - You will be ok w/food - you got the right mindset.

#2 Janet - Welcome - I don't try to run on my 55 yr old knees - but I can jog a little -

Laura - glad you got to sleep in - it feels good to sleep - I needed it yesterday - ate way too much - but nothing too too terrible - it's just that when we do eat more than usual it bugs us - our minds have changed - I have gym at 10 may go a little early and do the treadmill..

Julie - Like I said it's good to sleep to me it's our bodies telling us to slow down - I know we don't feel older in our heads but the truth is we (well most of us) are 50+ and we need our rest to get re-energized.

Jodi - You sound like you have it under control (fill) - I back to reading my Holocaust books and on What would you do t.v. program on friday - it was about a guy dissing Jewish pple - I was proud to see so many Non-jews getting pissed and telling him off.. Like I said before I think I was Jewish in another life - reading these books helps me appreciate my life that we take for granted..

Phyl - We are on for shopping on Monday - just remembered I gotta p/u my tickets from AAA the open at 9 so I will be at your house around 10 ish..

Well gang need to move - I got my rest in yesterday and now I got stuff to do....

CBL

Janet,I have no idea what program you are refering to as I dont watch TV on Friday nights at all..lol. Antisemitism is well alive in this world and it will always be unfortunately....however Jews arent the only ones persecuted. Genocide happens all over the world to so many different people. We havent learned from our mistakes..we repeat them over and over. Something will give eventually....perhaps even the end of the world. Dismal as that may seem...until then "we fight and fight with all our might to make it right"! (thats my Dassis saying, stole it)

I dont know how you can read all those books....I cant.....Ive tried and I cant...I have nightmares and terrible feelings if I do....I think Im a soul that was tortured at that time and....I just cant watch or read about it. There was a fiction book that I read this past year...not sure if it was before LB or after....but it was an audio book..one that I was listening to in the car on the way to and from work.....called "Sarahs Key" Forgot who wrote it but I didnt know it was about that time.....until I started listening and was hooked so much that I had to get the book to read over that shabbat because i didnt finish listening and couldnt wait to get to the end!! You should get this book....I bet from what you say..youd enjoy it!!

Yeah, I think it is the Ads by google. So scary, it's like BIG BROTHER watching us. They have our zip code and put things that are near us. There is a CONTACT us at the bottom of LBT and I just sent a really expressive email about how horrible it is. I think it's great to have ads (especially new and improved products/services, etc.) and understand the need for the $, but when they start putting UNHEALTHY ads it crosses the line for me. Let's unite and have a ZERO tolerance for this B.S.!!! Everyone please hit the contact us and tell them how you feel.

So funny about our boys and their love of flight. : ) Nels will be sure to come home with a little space ship/shuttle and play with it for DAYS. DH was trying to go up there Friday for the last launch, but couldn't get off work in time. Lucky for us/unlucky for NASA- it got delayed until Nov. 30!!! We won't be able to go that day though. : (

I just posted some of my most recent pics in bikini and panties. No modesty. So proud of how far I've come!

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peasout......Laura

Nice that the boys.....can do this together....I used to love when Ron would take Dassi places....thank god he did..as she now has all those memories that are special and hers.

Nels will remember these special times and he will create special times with his children because of it. It is great to see a dad take his children alone on trips...and handles things well...your husband is deff one of those!!! Kudos to him and you for letting him have this alone time for them to develop their relationship seperate and together with you. Special!!

Okay...well....food consisted of one egg for breakfast, lunch was a shake with a banana, blueberries.

Dinner was about an ounce of steak and salad.

Am cooking for the week. Stew....and chicken breasts in curry sauce....no sugar. I have left over steak for steak sandwiches and baked chicken....we are set for the week....made all the vegetables on Friday...and steamed cauliflower tonight. Im set for the week.....

I hope I stick to what ive made......and no deviation....meaning no forgetting the lunches!!!

Have a good week all...

Jodi