Re: Need to talk......please read

December 29, 2006

Sorry you missed the UPS guy again. Can you leave a note for him to

just leave the package for you?

I know what you are going thru w/ the " I won't be eating this anymore "

feelings. But...I'd much rather look the way I look now...feel the way

I feel now...than to be able to eat some of the things I miss. So what

if I can't chow down on my fave rice, eat a sausage/egg/cheese biscuit,

etc... I look amazing. I feel amazing. That to me is worth it! And

there are so many good for me things that I've found that I can enjoy.

You just have to experiment. I've never regretted having this surgery.

And...when you can put your shoes on w/out problems...you'll be thankful

as well. I know I am! :-) I can bend over & put them on w/out

problems. I can do my toenails w/ no problems. :-)

Cutting out the salt will help w/ the swelling. I rarely salt anything.

I have never tried an unflavored protein powder; but I know there are

several on here that use it. 60g of protein sounds about right. I try

to get 40-60g a day. I usually have 40 by the time lunch rolls around.

I have a protein shake first thing & that gives me 23g. Mine is

chocolate flavored.

Don't worry about being negative. You'll be ok. You're just going thru

the emotions we all went thru before surgery! We're here for you!

W

380/255/160

sarrah345 wrote:

> Hello all,

>

> Well, somehow the UPS guy came to my apartment without my knowledge

> for a SECOND day! I was here all day. I ordered those darn books

> with 1 day shipping from amazon. I'm really annoyed!!!! Another

> sticky posty note on my door!

>

> Despite me trying to talk myself whenever I feel this way....when I

> eat these days, I look at it and think " I guess I won't be eating

> that anymore. " My sis in law who had the surgery 18 months ago told

> me I shouldn't think like that. I can't help it. I see enough

> people for therapy and all, but I am having trouble convincing myself

> that I can eat some of the things I like, but down the road.....

> Does anyone have any secrets on how to talk yourself out of the

> premature feelings of " missing " food?

>

> I still have swelling in my lower legs, but it didn't happen

> overnight. My hands are a bit puffy still, but like I said last

> night, my doctor said it wasn't significant to warrant medication. I

> still have some Lasix from over the summer.....but I'm sort of afraid

> to take it without anyone knowing it (doctor-wise). Although, as I

> was leaving the office, he told me to " watch the salt. " I guess it

> doesn't help that I put some soy sauce on my white rice and chicken

> at dinner tonight. I tried to use it sparingly, but now I feel that

> it's all my fault.

>

> I found out that I can continue taking Seasonale (even after surgery)

> if I use it just to keep my cycle regular. Not for birth control. I

> don't have to worry about that for quite some time....it's been at

> least 3 YEARS since I've had to " concern myself " with birth control

> for the actual purpose of preventing pregnancy, if you know what I

> mean. (Whole other issue, which I hope will

> get " resolved " .......sometime after surgery.)

>

> Still having CPAP problems. I've woken up two mornings this week

> with the mask on the floor AND the machine turned off! Pulmonology

> doc said to keep trying.

>

> Another bunch of my " wishes " is to be able to get dressed and put on

> my shoes without all the effort it takes me now. Walk without pain,

> stand without pain.....stop taking all the darn meds I have to take

> now. I still want 's secret, but it pales in comparison to

> the ACTUAL reasons why I want this surgery so badly!

>

> I know it's been asked before, but would a " veteran " on here tell me

> about a good high protein, unflavored protein powder? My

> nutritionist told me I should have 60 (is it mg or g?) of protein per

> day. Does that sound about right to you guys?

>

> Sorry that this post is negative. I have my ups and downs these

> days. I'm so glad you guys are all here for me.

>

> I think I'm going to watch a little TV now.

>

> Hugs to all,

> Love,

> Cathy

> a bit of a sad butterfly in training

>

December 29, 2006

,

You know its funny you bring up the shoes thing and bending

over.......Hope this is not TMI, but a couple of days ago I was getting out

of the shower and I realized that I bent over and dried my legs off all the

way down to my feet, but I was using both hands at the same time. You know

like bending over to touch your toes! I realized that before I couldnt do

that. Now there is not as much of me in the way of me!

Cathy.....Its the things like this that you dont think about, and there

is nothing at Taco Bell that can make me feel this good!!

Mike T

Re: Need to talk......please read

> Sorry you missed the UPS guy again. Can you leave a note for him to

> just leave the package for you?

>

> I know what you are going thru w/ the " I won't be eating this anymore "

> feelings. But...I'd much rather look the way I look now...feel the way

> I feel now...than to be able to eat some of the things I miss. So what

> if I can't chow down on my fave rice, eat a sausage/egg/cheese biscuit,

> etc... I look amazing. I feel amazing. That to me is worth it! And

> there are so many good for me things that I've found that I can enjoy.

> You just have to experiment. I've never regretted having this surgery.

>

> And...when you can put your shoes on w/out problems...you'll be thankful

> as well. I know I am! :-) I can bend over & put them on w/out

> problems. I can do my toenails w/ no problems. :-)

>

> Cutting out the salt will help w/ the swelling. I rarely salt anything.

>

> I have never tried an unflavored protein powder; but I know there are

> several on here that use it. 60g of protein sounds about right. I try

> to get 40-60g a day. I usually have 40 by the time lunch rolls around.

> I have a protein shake first thing & that gives me 23g. Mine is

> chocolate flavored.

>

> Don't worry about being negative. You'll be ok. You're just going thru

> the emotions we all went thru before surgery! We're here for you!

>

> W

> 380/255/160

>

> sarrah345 wrote:

>> Hello all,

>>

>> Well, somehow the UPS guy came to my apartment without my knowledge

>> for a SECOND day! I was here all day. I ordered those darn books

>> with 1 day shipping from amazon. I'm really annoyed!!!! Another

>> sticky posty note on my door!

>>

>> Despite me trying to talk myself whenever I feel this way....when I

>> eat these days, I look at it and think " I guess I won't be eating

>> that anymore. " My sis in law who had the surgery 18 months ago told

>> me I shouldn't think like that. I can't help it. I see enough

>> people for therapy and all, but I am having trouble convincing myself

>> that I can eat some of the things I like, but down the road.....

>> Does anyone have any secrets on how to talk yourself out of the

>> premature feelings of " missing " food?

>>

>> I still have swelling in my lower legs, but it didn't happen

>> overnight. My hands are a bit puffy still, but like I said last

>> night, my doctor said it wasn't significant to warrant medication. I

>> still have some Lasix from over the summer.....but I'm sort of afraid

>> to take it without anyone knowing it (doctor-wise). Although, as I

>> was leaving the office, he told me to " watch the salt. " I guess it

>> doesn't help that I put some soy sauce on my white rice and chicken

>> at dinner tonight. I tried to use it sparingly, but now I feel that

>> it's all my fault.

>>

>> I found out that I can continue taking Seasonale (even after surgery)

>> if I use it just to keep my cycle regular. Not for birth control. I

>> don't have to worry about that for quite some time....it's been at

>> least 3 YEARS since I've had to " concern myself " with birth control

>> for the actual purpose of preventing pregnancy, if you know what I

>> mean. (Whole other issue, which I hope will

>> get " resolved " .......sometime after surgery.)

>>

>> Still having CPAP problems. I've woken up two mornings this week

>> with the mask on the floor AND the machine turned off! Pulmonology

>> doc said to keep trying.

>>

>> Another bunch of my " wishes " is to be able to get dressed and put on

>> my shoes without all the effort it takes me now. Walk without pain,

>> stand without pain.....stop taking all the darn meds I have to take

>> now. I still want 's secret, but it pales in comparison to

>> the ACTUAL reasons why I want this surgery so badly!

>>

>> I know it's been asked before, but would a " veteran " on here tell me

>> about a good high protein, unflavored protein powder? My

>> nutritionist told me I should have 60 (is it mg or g?) of protein per

>> day. Does that sound about right to you guys?

>>

>> Sorry that this post is negative. I have my ups and downs these

>> days. I'm so glad you guys are all here for me.

>>

>> I think I'm going to watch a little TV now.

>>

>> Hugs to all,

>> Love,

>> Cathy

>> a bit of a sad butterfly in training

>>

>

> We are a very active support group.

> If the email becomes overwhelming,

> please change your setting to NO EMAIL!

> Please contact Group Creator

> Robyn@...

>

December 29, 2006

Cathy,

Can you call UPS and set up a time to go pick up your packages at

their office or set a time frame up so you will know when they will

deliver. I hate you missed your delivery again. Hope you get it soon.

If you are still concerned about the swelling call and talk with your

doctors nurse for advisement about the Lasik. Maybe your doctor will

change his mind about you taking it. I can't comment on the missing

the foods. I haven't had wls yet. I do feel bad for those folks that

do go through it. Even though I have had to change my life style

some, but not in that way yet. When I first got my CPAP. I would pull

the mask off in the middle of the nite without realizing it. It took

some time for me to get used to it. Mine was set on air pressure of

12, so it blowed hard once it got all the way up. Just give it some

time. It'll be alright. Hang in there kid. As far as the protein

goes, I only know when I saw a nutritionist for my diabetes, she said

I needed 5-7 oz of protein daily. I know its different for wls

patients. But, I would image you would need more. Just image the

beautiful butterfly you are going to be, and let its wings lift your

spirits.

>

> Hello all,

>

> Well, somehow the UPS guy came to my apartment without my knowledge

> for a SECOND day! I was here all day. I ordered those darn books

> with 1 day shipping from amazon. I'm really annoyed!!!! Another

> sticky posty note on my door!

>

> Despite me trying to talk myself whenever I feel this way....when I

> eat these days, I look at it and think " I guess I won't be eating

> that anymore. " My sis in law who had the surgery 18 months ago

told

> me I shouldn't think like that. I can't help it. I see enough

> people for therapy and all, but I am having trouble convincing

myself

> that I can eat some of the things I like, but down the road.....

> Does anyone have any secrets on how to talk yourself out of the

> premature feelings of " missing " food?

>

> I still have swelling in my lower legs, but it didn't happen

> overnight. My hands are a bit puffy still, but like I said last

> night, my doctor said it wasn't significant to warrant medication.

I

> still have some Lasix from over the summer.....but I'm sort of

afraid

> to take it without anyone knowing it (doctor-wise). Although, as I

> was leaving the office, he told me to " watch the salt. " I guess it

> doesn't help that I put some soy sauce on my white rice and chicken

> at dinner tonight. I tried to use it sparingly, but now I feel

that

> it's all my fault.

>

> I found out that I can continue taking Seasonale (even after

surgery)

> if I use it just to keep my cycle regular. Not for birth control.

I

> don't have to worry about that for quite some time....it's been at

> least 3 YEARS since I've had to " concern myself " with birth control

> for the actual purpose of preventing pregnancy, if you know what I

> mean. (Whole other issue, which I hope will

> get " resolved " .......sometime after surgery.)

>

> Still having CPAP problems. I've woken up two mornings this week

> with the mask on the floor AND the machine turned off! Pulmonology

> doc said to keep trying.

>

> Another bunch of my " wishes " is to be able to get dressed and put

on

> my shoes without all the effort it takes me now. Walk without

pain,

> stand without pain.....stop taking all the darn meds I have to take

> now. I still want 's secret, but it pales in comparison to

> the ACTUAL reasons why I want this surgery so badly!

>

> I know it's been asked before, but would a " veteran " on here tell

me

> about a good high protein, unflavored protein powder? My

> nutritionist told me I should have 60 (is it mg or g?) of protein

per

> day. Does that sound about right to you guys?

>

> Sorry that this post is negative. I have my ups and downs these

> days. I'm so glad you guys are all here for me.

>

> I think I'm going to watch a little TV now.

>

> Hugs to all,

> Love,

> Cathy

> a bit of a sad butterfly in training

>

December 29, 2006

Woohoo...Mike bent over in the shower! ;-) Isn't it cool when you

realize stuff like that? When I could cross my legs I thought that was

the bomb! LOL

W

380/255/160

Mike Tune wrote:

> ,

> You know its funny you bring up the shoes thing and bending

> over.......Hope this is not TMI, but a couple of days ago I was getting out

> of the shower and I realized that I bent over and dried my legs off all the

> way down to my feet, but I was using both hands at the same time. You know

> like bending over to touch your toes! I realized that before I couldnt do

> that. Now there is not as much of me in the way of me!

> Cathy.....Its the things like this that you dont think about, and there

> is nothing at Taco Bell that can make me feel this good!!

>

> Mike T

December 30, 2006

How about, " I guess I won't be spilling that crap on my shirt

anymore " or " I guess I won't be spending $X on that anymore " or " I

guess I won't be making myself practically sick by eating 5+ servings

of that anymore " or " I guess I won't freak out my family and friends

by eating twice as much in half the time as they do anymore " ? It's

probably much harder to think about missing those things. I know I

don't miss them a bit. I miss the types of food even less.

You'll find that you're going to desire food that actually has a lot

more flavor. You might actually want to have meals that are often a

LOT more expensive and snooty. Yet you can afford them because you're

either eating them less often or getting two meals out of them with a

take home box or left overs.

Good luck " resolving " your issues. I'm happy to help where I can.

WOOT!

I take no meds, no CPAP and can actually cross my legs and bring my

feet nearly into my lap to cut my toe nails or put socks/shoes on. I

was to the point with my weight where I thought I was going to have

to have someone cut my toe nails for me. Imagine that.

And I still want you and all the other ladies in here to have

's Secret (and a camera with fresh batteries and an empty

memory card).

60g sounds right. I didn't do much with protein drinks until I

started really kicking up my workout. Others have good

recommendations though. I would think your surgeon's office could

recommend something too. When you get a brand you want to try submit

a contact to their website asking for samples/coupons. I'll bet money

you get some in the mail fast.

Stop apologizing for being negative. You're overall goal is a

positive change. Big picture honey!

Mike in GR

>

> Hello all,

>

> Well, somehow the UPS guy came to my apartment without my knowledge

> for a SECOND day! I was here all day. I ordered those darn books

> with 1 day shipping from amazon. I'm really annoyed!!!! Another

> sticky posty note on my door!

>

> Despite me trying to talk myself whenever I feel this way....when I

> eat these days, I look at it and think " I guess I won't be eating

> that anymore. " My sis in law who had the surgery 18 months ago

told

> me I shouldn't think like that. I can't help it. I see enough

> people for therapy and all, but I am having trouble convincing

myself

> that I can eat some of the things I like, but down the road.....

> Does anyone have any secrets on how to talk yourself out of the

> premature feelings of " missing " food?

>

> I still have swelling in my lower legs, but it didn't happen

> overnight. My hands are a bit puffy still, but like I said last

> night, my doctor said it wasn't significant to warrant medication.

I

> still have some Lasix from over the summer.....but I'm sort of

afraid

> to take it without anyone knowing it (doctor-wise). Although, as I

> was leaving the office, he told me to " watch the salt. " I guess it

> doesn't help that I put some soy sauce on my white rice and chicken

> at dinner tonight. I tried to use it sparingly, but now I feel

that

> it's all my fault.

>

> I found out that I can continue taking Seasonale (even after

surgery)

> if I use it just to keep my cycle regular. Not for birth control.

I

> don't have to worry about that for quite some time....it's been at

> least 3 YEARS since I've had to " concern myself " with birth control

> for the actual purpose of preventing pregnancy, if you know what I

> mean. (Whole other issue, which I hope will

> get " resolved " .......sometime after surgery.)

>

> Still having CPAP problems. I've woken up two mornings this week

> with the mask on the floor AND the machine turned off! Pulmonology

> doc said to keep trying.

>

> Another bunch of my " wishes " is to be able to get dressed and put

on

> my shoes without all the effort it takes me now. Walk without

pain,

> stand without pain.....stop taking all the darn meds I have to take

> now. I still want 's secret, but it pales in comparison to

> the ACTUAL reasons why I want this surgery so badly!

>

> I know it's been asked before, but would a " veteran " on here tell

me

> about a good high protein, unflavored protein powder? My

> nutritionist told me I should have 60 (is it mg or g?) of protein

per

> day. Does that sound about right to you guys?

>

> Sorry that this post is negative. I have my ups and downs these

> days. I'm so glad you guys are all here for me.

>

> I think I'm going to watch a little TV now.

>

> Hugs to all,

> Love,

> Cathy

> a bit of a sad butterfly in training

>

December 30, 2006

Ok this is from Holt, Florida, I have to say something here.

(1) get the low-sodium soy, if you must. IF you feel you are holding

water, try drinking some green tea, I'm still a newbie and not sure if

by passers can drink green tea, I know I can't.

Now let me say something, that may come out as hard, I sure don't mean

it to me. You may have read in some of my other post that I have

Interstitial Cystitis (IC), and I've also said it is a bladder

condition. And obviously I'm having a gastric by pass (10th of Jan).

But I feel Jealous, and that all of ya'll should be glad you can eat

what you can. I do not mean this to sound ugly.

But Interstitial Cystitis, took almost all foods away from me before I

ever got to this point. First, IC is a condition where the bladder

lining dissolves. All by it's self, no one knows why, and also there

is no cure! I can take medication that may (that should be underlined

there) lay down a faux membrane (lining) in my bladder, I've been on

it 5 months and so far so good, but I can never, ever the rest of my

life get these foods back, (1) they can hurt/destroy this fauz lining

if I do eat them, (2) if the medication doesn't work I will hurt, be

up as many as 30 times during the night, but evantully will have to

have my bladder removed and I would use a bag.

I had to give up soda, all kinds diet or not

pizza, any kinds tomato or tomato products.

Fruit, (except Pears and blue berries)

Nothing with saccharine or aspartame in it.

onions (unless they are super cooked)

Cheese, sour cream, yougurt, (I can have mozzarella, velvetta)

chocolate

coffee, to include decaf

nuts (except for almonds and cashews)

mayonnaise, miso, mustard and catsup

spicy foods, chinese, Mexican and any place that I don't know what is

in the food, because preservatives can hurt too

bacon or ham or even lunch meat, I can have nothing aged cured, or smoked

Alcohol of any kind ( now I wasn't a big drinker, but every now and

then I liked a few)

What I'm saying is, be glad at some point in moderation you will be

able to eat some of these things.

You'd think I wouldn't need a by pass, but oh yeah, had to give up

smoking, but that was very healthy for me. But when you come from an

obese family sometimes no matter what, you just can't lose the weight.

So while others are eating the diet jello, I'll be doing the organic

broth, and water, while others are having liquid protein, that is

chocolate or strawberry, I'll be Miss Plan Vanilla (and only Whey

Protein, nothing with soy in it and much of the other stuff that is in

some)

Yep I'm jealous, and I know it is point less, but I want all of you to

be proud that you have these choices. Use my poor pity story, to help

you be grateful but don't pity me. This is just life! Just the way as

you travel your road, others will be able to have things that you now

know are no longer good for you. It is life.

Now on the bladder removal part with the bag, I've made up my mind

that, that D*&% bag will not fit in my string bikini so that is not

going to happen to me. I will not get diabetes, high blood pressure

or a heart attack either, even if it runs like crazy in my family so

there.

I may have to say I'm a 51 one year old grandmother, but I refuse to

look like one, I didn't look like one before I found out I had IC

about 8 months ago. So no matter what I'm not giving up, even if I

have had to give up a bunch of different foods and drinks that I've

loved. But you guys can still have them in moderation, be grateful

and proud that you've got this opportunies.

December 30, 2006

I can drink as much green tea as you can make and set in front of me.

Seriously I can. I dare you.

I found myself saying " OH NO! " about three or four times reading your

list of what you can't have. I admire your courage and know that with

it and some positive thoughts, prayers and good luck you'll do well

with this and everything else.

Mike in GR

>

> Ok this is from Holt, Florida, I have to say something here.

>

> (1) get the low-sodium soy, if you must. IF you feel you are

holding

> water, try drinking some green tea, I'm still a newbie and not sure

if

> by passers can drink green tea, I know I can't.

>

> Now let me say something, that may come out as hard, I sure don't

mean

> it to me. You may have read in some of my other post that I have

> Interstitial Cystitis (IC), and I've also said it is a bladder

> condition. And obviously I'm having a gastric by pass (10th of

Jan).

>

> But I feel Jealous, and that all of ya'll should be glad you can eat

> what you can. I do not mean this to sound ugly.

>

> But Interstitial Cystitis, took almost all foods away from me

before I

> ever got to this point. First, IC is a condition where the bladder

> lining dissolves. All by it's self, no one knows why, and also there

> is no cure! I can take medication that may (that should be

underlined

> there) lay down a faux membrane (lining) in my bladder, I've been on

> it 5 months and so far so good, but I can never, ever the rest of my

> life get these foods back, (1) they can hurt/destroy this fauz

lining

> if I do eat them, (2) if the medication doesn't work I will hurt, be

> up as many as 30 times during the night, but evantully will have to

> have my bladder removed and I would use a bag.

>

> I had to give up soda, all kinds diet or not

> pizza, any kinds tomato or tomato products.

> Fruit, (except Pears and blue berries)

> Nothing with saccharine or aspartame in it.

> onions (unless they are super cooked)

> Cheese, sour cream, yougurt, (I can have mozzarella, velvetta)

> chocolate

> coffee, to include decaf

> nuts (except for almonds and cashews)

> mayonnaise, miso, mustard and catsup

> spicy foods, chinese, Mexican and any place that I don't know what

is

> in the food, because preservatives can hurt too

> bacon or ham or even lunch meat, I can have nothing aged cured, or

smoked

> Alcohol of any kind ( now I wasn't a big drinker, but every now and

> then I liked a few)

>

> What I'm saying is, be glad at some point in moderation you will be

> able to eat some of these things.

>

> You'd think I wouldn't need a by pass, but oh yeah, had to give up

> smoking, but that was very healthy for me. But when you come from

an

> obese family sometimes no matter what, you just can't lose the

weight.

>

> So while others are eating the diet jello, I'll be doing the organic

> broth, and water, while others are having liquid protein, that is

> chocolate or strawberry, I'll be Miss Plan Vanilla (and only Whey

> Protein, nothing with soy in it and much of the other stuff that is

in

> some)

>

> Yep I'm jealous, and I know it is point less, but I want all of you

to

> be proud that you have these choices. Use my poor pity story, to

help

> you be grateful but don't pity me. This is just life! Just the way

as

> you travel your road, others will be able to have things that you

now

> know are no longer good for you. It is life.

>

> Now on the bladder removal part with the bag, I've made up my mind

> that, that D*&% bag will not fit in my string bikini so that is not

> going to happen to me. I will not get diabetes, high blood pressure

> or a heart attack either, even if it runs like crazy in my family

so

> there.

>

> I may have to say I'm a 51 one year old grandmother, but I refuse to

> look like one, I didn't look like one before I found out I had IC

> about 8 months ago. So no matter what I'm not giving up, even if I

> have had to give up a bunch of different foods and drinks that I've

> loved. But you guys can still have them in moderation, be grateful

> and proud that you've got this opportunies.

>

December 30, 2006

All I can say is WOW, , thanks for the reality checks! I can't

imagine living with all the food restrictions you have, particularly

with GBS. Your dedication, however, to being healthy will see you

through it all. I haven't had surgery yet (1/15) but I will remember

when I'm feeling blue to pull out your story and re-read it. It's a

highly effective reminder to count my blessings. May God hold you in

His hand through your journey.

--Cat

>

> Ok this is from Holt, Florida, I have to say something here.

>

> (1) get the low-sodium soy, if you must. IF you feel you are holding

> water, try drinking some green tea, I'm still a newbie and not sure if

> by passers can drink green tea, I know I can't.

>

> Now let me say something, that may come out as hard, I sure don't mean

> it to me. You may have read in some of my other post that I have

> Interstitial Cystitis (IC), and I've also said it is a bladder

> condition. And obviously I'm having a gastric by pass (10th of Jan).

>

> But I feel Jealous, and that all of ya'll should be glad you can eat

> what you can. I do not mean this to sound ugly.

>

> But Interstitial Cystitis, took almost all foods away from me before I

> ever got to this point. First, IC is a condition where the bladder

> lining dissolves. All by it's self, no one knows why, and also there

> is no cure! I can take medication that may (that should be underlined

> there) lay down a faux membrane (lining) in my bladder, I've been on

> it 5 months and so far so good, but I can never, ever the rest of my

> life get these foods back, (1) they can hurt/destroy this fauz lining

> if I do eat them, (2) if the medication doesn't work I will hurt, be

> up as many as 30 times during the night, but evantully will have to

> have my bladder removed and I would use a bag.

>

> I had to give up soda, all kinds diet or not

> pizza, any kinds tomato or tomato products.

> Fruit, (except Pears and blue berries)

> Nothing with saccharine or aspartame in it.

> onions (unless they are super cooked)

> Cheese, sour cream, yougurt, (I can have mozzarella, velvetta)

> chocolate

> coffee, to include decaf

> nuts (except for almonds and cashews)

> mayonnaise, miso, mustard and catsup

> spicy foods, chinese, Mexican and any place that I don't know what is

> in the food, because preservatives can hurt too

> bacon or ham or even lunch meat, I can have nothing aged cured, or

smoked

> Alcohol of any kind ( now I wasn't a big drinker, but every now and

> then I liked a few)

>

> What I'm saying is, be glad at some point in moderation you will be

> able to eat some of these things.

>

> You'd think I wouldn't need a by pass, but oh yeah, had to give up

> smoking, but that was very healthy for me. But when you come from an

> obese family sometimes no matter what, you just can't lose the weight.

>

> So while others are eating the diet jello, I'll be doing the organic

> broth, and water, while others are having liquid protein, that is

> chocolate or strawberry, I'll be Miss Plan Vanilla (and only Whey

> Protein, nothing with soy in it and much of the other stuff that is in

> some)

>

> Yep I'm jealous, and I know it is point less, but I want all of you to

> be proud that you have these choices. Use my poor pity story, to help

> you be grateful but don't pity me. This is just life! Just the way as

> you travel your road, others will be able to have things that you now

> know are no longer good for you. It is life.

>

> Now on the bladder removal part with the bag, I've made up my mind

> that, that D*&% bag will not fit in my string bikini so that is not

> going to happen to me. I will not get diabetes, high blood pressure

> or a heart attack either, even if it runs like crazy in my family so

> there.

>

> I may have to say I'm a 51 one year old grandmother, but I refuse to

> look like one, I didn't look like one before I found out I had IC

> about 8 months ago. So no matter what I'm not giving up, even if I

> have had to give up a bunch of different foods and drinks that I've

> loved. But you guys can still have them in moderation, be grateful

> and proud that you've got this opportunies.

>

December 30, 2006

I agree Mike, I think you will do great with this just by reading your

determination here. BEST WISHES!

Mike websculpt@...> wrote: I can drink as much green tea as you

can make and set in front of me.

Seriously I can. I dare you.

I found myself saying " OH NO! " about three or four times reading your

list of what you can't have. I admire your courage and know that with

it and some positive thoughts, prayers and good luck you'll do well

with this and everything else.

Mike in GR

>

> Ok this is from Holt, Florida, I have to say something here.

>

> (1) get the low-sodium soy, if you must. IF you feel you are

holding

> water, try drinking some green tea, I'm still a newbie and not sure

if

> by passers can drink green tea, I know I can't.

>

> Now let me say something, that may come out as hard, I sure don't

mean

> it to me. You may have read in some of my other post that I have

> Interstitial Cystitis (IC), and I've also said it is a bladder

> condition. And obviously I'm having a gastric by pass (10th of

Jan).

>

> But I feel Jealous, and that all of ya'll should be glad you can eat

> what you can. I do not mean this to sound ugly.

>

> But Interstitial Cystitis, took almost all foods away from me

before I

> ever got to this point. First, IC is a condition where the bladder

> lining dissolves. All by it's self, no one knows why, and also there

> is no cure! I can take medication that may (that should be

underlined

> there) lay down a faux membrane (lining) in my bladder, I've been on

> it 5 months and so far so good, but I can never, ever the rest of my

> life get these foods back, (1) they can hurt/destroy this fauz

lining

> if I do eat them, (2) if the medication doesn't work I will hurt, be

> up as many as 30 times during the night, but evantully will have to

> have my bladder removed and I would use a bag.

>

> I had to give up soda, all kinds diet or not

> pizza, any kinds tomato or tomato products.

> Fruit, (except Pears and blue berries)

> Nothing with saccharine or aspartame in it.

> onions (unless they are super cooked)

> Cheese, sour cream, yougurt, (I can have mozzarella, velvetta)

> chocolate

> coffee, to include decaf

> nuts (except for almonds and cashews)

> mayonnaise, miso, mustard and catsup

> spicy foods, chinese, Mexican and any place that I don't know what

is

> in the food, because preservatives can hurt too

> bacon or ham or even lunch meat, I can have nothing aged cured, or

smoked

> Alcohol of any kind ( now I wasn't a big drinker, but every now and

> then I liked a few)

>

> What I'm saying is, be glad at some point in moderation you will be

> able to eat some of these things.

>

> You'd think I wouldn't need a by pass, but oh yeah, had to give up

> smoking, but that was very healthy for me. But when you come from

an

> obese family sometimes no matter what, you just can't lose the

weight.

>

> So while others are eating the diet jello, I'll be doing the organic

> broth, and water, while others are having liquid protein, that is

> chocolate or strawberry, I'll be Miss Plan Vanilla (and only Whey

> Protein, nothing with soy in it and much of the other stuff that is

in

> some)

>

> Yep I'm jealous, and I know it is point less, but I want all of you

to

> be proud that you have these choices. Use my poor pity story, to

help

> you be grateful but don't pity me. This is just life! Just the way

as

> you travel your road, others will be able to have things that you

now

> know are no longer good for you. It is life.

>

> Now on the bladder removal part with the bag, I've made up my mind

> that, that D*&% bag will not fit in my string bikini so that is not

> going to happen to me. I will not get diabetes, high blood pressure

> or a heart attack either, even if it runs like crazy in my family

so

> there.

>

> I may have to say I'm a 51 one year old grandmother, but I refuse to

> look like one, I didn't look like one before I found out I had IC

> about 8 months ago. So no matter what I'm not giving up, even if I

> have had to give up a bunch of different foods and drinks that I've

> loved. But you guys can still have them in moderation, be grateful

> and proud that you've got this opportunies.

>

__________________________________________________

December 30, 2006

Cathy, I am a firm believer in letting yourself feel the yucky, sad,

angry, etc... feelings. I thought the same way about food prior to

surgery. I don't know about you, but food was the love of my life.

I know it sounds terrible, but it is true. I grew up relying on

food to meet my needs for love and affection, and then I continued

this pattern even into adulthood. I mourned food for months, but it

passed. I had to " miss it " and feel it. In order to get over a

loss, you have to go through the stages of grief. It is okay for

you to miss food. As for the salt, have you tried the lite salt? I

have been using it since surgery, and it tastes pretty good.

Wishes...they will come true soon enough. You will be able to move

about and do all of the regular hygiene functions after some weight

is lost. I know what you mean about that one! I think having the

weight off will relieve some of the pain as well, and you can start

walking and exercising which helps with everything including

emotionss! You will get a ton of responses about protien, but here

is what I use daily...

New Direction Nutrimed Plus Nurtional Supplement Hot Cocoa (27g

protien) + one scoope of Beneprotein Instant Protein Powder (6g

protein) this is for breakfast

Midmorning - One scoop of Syntrax Nectar mixed in water (23g protien)

Late afternoon - One scoop of Syntrax Nectar mixed in water (23g)

And then the rest of protien is from food or I add another protien

drink/supplement. Hope this helps! lisamathis

December 30, 2006

Thanks Mike in GR

is GR Germany or am I having a brain dead moment.

I am living proof you canlearn to live with anything. When they first

starting working me up to figure out what was wrong it was IC or

Bladder Cancer. So I'm still lucky, with Bladder Cancer I would not

have had a choice but a bag.

But from reading all of you guys posts in the different areas, it has

helped me to stay positive that I can do this too.

And as soon as I get the nerve up, I'm going to post some pictures and

take my measurements (those will not be posted).

December 30, 2006

I agree with you Mike T; I can do a lot of things now that were not

so easy previously! lisamathis

> >> Hello all,

> >>

> >> Well, somehow the UPS guy came to my apartment without my

knowledge

> >> for a SECOND day! I was here all day. I ordered those darn

books

> >> with 1 day shipping from amazon. I'm really annoyed!!!!

Another

> >> sticky posty note on my door!

> >>

> >> Despite me trying to talk myself whenever I feel this

way....when I

> >> eat these days, I look at it and think " I guess I won't be

eating

> >> that anymore. " My sis in law who had the surgery 18 months ago

told

> >> me I shouldn't think like that. I can't help it. I see enough

> >> people for therapy and all, but I am having trouble convincing

myself

> >> that I can eat some of the things I like, but down the road.....

> >> Does anyone have any secrets on how to talk yourself out of the

> >> premature feelings of " missing " food?

> >>

> >> I still have swelling in my lower legs, but it didn't happen

> >> overnight. My hands are a bit puffy still, but like I said last

> >> night, my doctor said it wasn't significant to warrant

medication. I

> >> still have some Lasix from over the summer.....but I'm sort of

afraid

> >> to take it without anyone knowing it (doctor-wise). Although,

as I

> >> was leaving the office, he told me to " watch the salt. " I

guess it

> >> doesn't help that I put some soy sauce on my white rice and

chicken

> >> at dinner tonight. I tried to use it sparingly, but now I feel

that

> >> it's all my fault.

> >>

> >> I found out that I can continue taking Seasonale (even after

surgery)

> >> if I use it just to keep my cycle regular. Not for birth

control. I

> >> don't have to worry about that for quite some time....it's been

at

> >> least 3 YEARS since I've had to " concern myself " with birth

control

> >> for the actual purpose of preventing pregnancy, if you know

what I

> >> mean. (Whole other issue, which I hope will

> >> get " resolved " .......sometime after surgery.)

> >>

> >> Still having CPAP problems. I've woken up two mornings this

week

> >> with the mask on the floor AND the machine turned off!

Pulmonology

> >> doc said to keep trying.

> >>

> >> Another bunch of my " wishes " is to be able to get dressed and

put on

> >> my shoes without all the effort it takes me now. Walk without

pain,

> >> stand without pain.....stop taking all the darn meds I have to

take

> >> now. I still want 's secret, but it pales in

comparison to

> >> the ACTUAL reasons why I want this surgery so badly!

> >>

> >> I know it's been asked before, but would a " veteran " on here

tell me

> >> about a good high protein, unflavored protein powder? My

> >> nutritionist told me I should have 60 (is it mg or g?) of

protein per

> >> day. Does that sound about right to you guys?

> >>

> >> Sorry that this post is negative. I have my ups and downs these

> >> days. I'm so glad you guys are all here for me.

> >>

> >> I think I'm going to watch a little TV now.

> >>

> >> Hugs to all,

> >> Love,

> >> Cathy

> >> a bit of a sad butterfly in training

> >>

> >

> > We are a very active support group.

> > If the email becomes overwhelming,

> > please change your setting to NO EMAIL!

> > Please contact Group Creator

> > Robyn@...

> >

December 30, 2006

Okay, W --- I LOVE CROSSING MY LEGS!!! I do it all the

time! lisamathis

> > ,

> > You know its funny you bring up the shoes thing and bending

> > over.......Hope this is not TMI, but a couple of days ago I was

getting out

> > of the shower and I realized that I bent over and dried my legs

off all the

> > way down to my feet, but I was using both hands at the same

time. You know

> > like bending over to touch your toes! I realized that before I

couldnt do

> > that. Now there is not as much of me in the way of me!

> > Cathy.....Its the things like this that you dont think

about, and there

> > is nothing at Taco Bell that can make me feel this good!!

> >

> > Mike T

>

December 30, 2006

, GR (as in Mike in GR) stands for Grand Rapids (Michigan.)

--Cat

>

> Thanks Mike in GR

>

> is GR Germany or am I having a brain dead moment.

>

> I am living proof you canlearn to live with anything. When they first

> starting working me up to figure out what was wrong it was IC or

> Bladder Cancer. So I'm still lucky, with Bladder Cancer I would not

> have had a choice but a bag.

>

> But from reading all of you guys posts in the different areas, it has

> helped me to stay positive that I can do this too.

>

> And as soon as I get the nerve up, I'm going to post some pictures and

> take my measurements (those will not be posted).

>

December 30, 2006

Sometimes I find myself getting so busy with life I can forget every now and

then what it was really like because I am trying so hard to enjoy the now.

I want us ladies to have Secrets too Mike LOL! I figure that is

another big goal for me in a couple of months. (sigh) I guess I am going to have

to have another goal of finding someone to model for LOL! Ok Ok, so I guess

doing it for me and modeling for me will have to be enough for now, I think I

can live with that. For now anyways One of my BIG BIG goals out of this

weight loss was feeling sexy again. That is as great as being healthy. Cathy you

are not alone in the sex department hun. It has been years for me as well.

I found myself being able to bend forward to paint my own toe nails WOOOOHOOO!

It is so nice I tell you. I remember I hated doing them and would have my ex do

them for me because it always reminded me of being so heavy. After I left his

sorry butt, my toes rarely ever got done. Now I keep them painted. I am excited

to report that when I was young I was able to get my foot behind my head, GOOD

LORD THE THOUGHT! Now I can get it to my face, so I am almost there hahahahhaha

I know you all wanted to know that LOL! It's just the fact that I can now though

you know? I mean I test my limits now no matter how silly they may seem just so

I can realize I CAN!

As for the protein, My dr. told me 70 grams of protein a day... I do more then

that now. I use Vanilla from walmart mostly..... I really dont taste the vanilla

when I mix in orange juice or crystal light instead of water and then some fruit

and/or yogurt with it. I make it a full meal in one. There are recipies for

different shakes posted in our files on the homepage when your ready.

Never be sorry for your posts no matter what they are, this is what we are

here for and we need each other in this. Post aways sweety positive and

negative, either way we understand and know what you are going through.

Hugs,

Shauna

Mike websculpt@...> wrote:

How about, " I guess I won't be spilling that crap on my shirt

anymore " or " I guess I won't be spending $X on that anymore " or " I

guess I won't be making myself practically sick by eating 5+ servings

of that anymore " or " I guess I won't freak out my family and friends

by eating twice as much in half the time as they do anymore " ? It's

probably much harder to think about missing those things. I know I

don't miss them a bit. I miss the types of food even less.

You'll find that you're going to desire food that actually has a lot

more flavor. You might actually want to have meals that are often a

LOT more expensive and snooty. Yet you can afford them because you're

either eating them less often or getting two meals out of them with a

take home box or left overs.

Good luck " resolving " your issues. I'm happy to help where I can.

WOOT!

I take no meds, no CPAP and can actually cross my legs and bring my

feet nearly into my lap to cut my toe nails or put socks/shoes on. I

was to the point with my weight where I thought I was going to have

to have someone cut my toe nails for me. Imagine that.

And I still want you and all the other ladies in here to have

's Secret (and a camera with fresh batteries and an empty

memory card).

60g sounds right. I didn't do much with protein drinks until I

started really kicking up my workout. Others have good

recommendations though. I would think your surgeon's office could

recommend something too. When you get a brand you want to try submit

a contact to their website asking for samples/coupons. I'll bet money

you get some in the mail fast.

Stop apologizing for being negative. You're overall goal is a

positive change. Big picture honey!

Mike in GR

>

> Hello all,

>

> Well, somehow the UPS guy came to my apartment without my knowledge

> for a SECOND day! I was here all day. I ordered those darn books

> with 1 day shipping from amazon. I'm really annoyed!!!! Another

> sticky posty note on my door!

>

> Despite me trying to talk myself whenever I feel this way....when I

> eat these days, I look at it and think " I guess I won't be eating

> that anymore. " My sis in law who had the surgery 18 months ago

told

> me I shouldn't think like that. I can't help it. I see enough

> people for therapy and all, but I am having trouble convincing

myself

> that I can eat some of the things I like, but down the road.....

> Does anyone have any secrets on how to talk yourself out of the

> premature feelings of " missing " food?

>

> I still have swelling in my lower legs, but it didn't happen

> overnight. My hands are a bit puffy still, but like I said last

> night, my doctor said it wasn't significant to warrant medication.

I

> still have some Lasix from over the summer.....but I'm sort of

afraid

> to take it without anyone knowing it (doctor-wise). Although, as I

> was leaving the office, he told me to " watch the salt. " I guess it

> doesn't help that I put some soy sauce on my white rice and chicken

> at dinner tonight. I tried to use it sparingly, but now I feel

that

> it's all my fault.

>

> I found out that I can continue taking Seasonale (even after

surgery)

> if I use it just to keep my cycle regular. Not for birth control.

I

> don't have to worry about that for quite some time....it's been at

> least 3 YEARS since I've had to " concern myself " with birth control

> for the actual purpose of preventing pregnancy, if you know what I

> mean. (Whole other issue, which I hope will

> get " resolved " .......sometime after surgery.)

>

> Still having CPAP problems. I've woken up two mornings this week

> with the mask on the floor AND the machine turned off! Pulmonology

> doc said to keep trying.

>

> Another bunch of my " wishes " is to be able to get dressed and put

on

> my shoes without all the effort it takes me now. Walk without

pain,

> stand without pain.....stop taking all the darn meds I have to take

> now. I still want 's secret, but it pales in comparison to

> the ACTUAL reasons why I want this surgery so badly!

>

> I know it's been asked before, but would a " veteran " on here tell

me

> about a good high protein, unflavored protein powder? My

> nutritionist told me I should have 60 (is it mg or g?) of protein

per

> day. Does that sound about right to you guys?

>

> Sorry that this post is negative. I have my ups and downs these

> days. I'm so glad you guys are all here for me.

>

> I think I'm going to watch a little TV now.

>

> Hugs to all,

> Love,

> Cathy

> a bit of a sad butterfly in training

>

__________________________________________________

December 30, 2006

By the way Shauna, you look HOT! Mucho gusto! Your pictures were

great! I'm glad you can paint your toes now! I know the feeling...

> >

> > Hello all,

> >

> > Well, somehow the UPS guy came to my apartment without my

knowledge

> > for a SECOND day! I was here all day. I ordered those darn books

> > with 1 day shipping from amazon. I'm really annoyed!!!! Another

> > sticky posty note on my door!

> >

> > Despite me trying to talk myself whenever I feel this

way....when I

> > eat these days, I look at it and think " I guess I won't be

eating

> > that anymore. " My sis in law who had the surgery 18 months ago

> told

> > me I shouldn't think like that. I can't help it. I see enough

> > people for therapy and all, but I am having trouble convincing

> myself

> > that I can eat some of the things I like, but down the road.....

> > Does anyone have any secrets on how to talk yourself out of the

> > premature feelings of " missing " food?

> >

> > I still have swelling in my lower legs, but it didn't happen

> > overnight. My hands are a bit puffy still, but like I said last

> > night, my doctor said it wasn't significant to warrant

medication.

> I

> > still have some Lasix from over the summer.....but I'm sort of

> afraid

> > to take it without anyone knowing it (doctor-wise). Although, as

I

> > was leaving the office, he told me to " watch the salt. " I guess

it

> > doesn't help that I put some soy sauce on my white rice and

chicken

> > at dinner tonight. I tried to use it sparingly, but now I feel

> that

> > it's all my fault.

> >

> > I found out that I can continue taking Seasonale (even after

> surgery)

> > if I use it just to keep my cycle regular. Not for birth

control.

> I

> > don't have to worry about that for quite some time....it's been

at

> > least 3 YEARS since I've had to " concern myself " with birth

control

> > for the actual purpose of preventing pregnancy, if you know what

I

> > mean. (Whole other issue, which I hope will

> > get " resolved " .......sometime after surgery.)

> >

> > Still having CPAP problems. I've woken up two mornings this week

> > with the mask on the floor AND the machine turned off!

Pulmonology

> > doc said to keep trying.

> >

> > Another bunch of my " wishes " is to be able to get dressed and

put

> on

> > my shoes without all the effort it takes me now. Walk without

> pain,

> > stand without pain.....stop taking all the darn meds I have to

take

> > now. I still want 's secret, but it pales in comparison

to

> > the ACTUAL reasons why I want this surgery so badly!

> >

> > I know it's been asked before, but would a " veteran " on here

tell

> me

> > about a good high protein, unflavored protein powder? My

> > nutritionist told me I should have 60 (is it mg or g?) of

protein

> per

> > day. Does that sound about right to you guys?

> >

> > Sorry that this post is negative. I have my ups and downs these

> > days. I'm so glad you guys are all here for me.

> >

> > I think I'm going to watch a little TV now.

> >

> > Hugs to all,

> > Love,

> > Cathy

> > a bit of a sad butterfly in training

> >

>

> __________________________________________________

>

December 30, 2006

Shauna

You made me laugh so hard it hurt. Now I'm gonna get a bit silly here

and this is a good thing for us to laugh about.

I loved that comment about getting your foot behind your head, and you

know you keep that practice up cause that could be an asset.

Now when you get ready you go join match.com and you list that as one

of your assets and see if you don't find yourself a cutie pie to paint

your toe nails for fun!

hugs

December 30, 2006

LOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

magnoliamouth karenostrom@...> wrote: Shauna

You made me laugh so hard it hurt. Now I'm gonna get a bit silly here

and this is a good thing for us to laugh about.

I loved that comment about getting your foot behind your head, and you

know you keep that practice up cause that could be an asset.

Now when you get ready you go join match.com and you list that as one

of your assets and see if you don't find yourself a cutie pie to paint

your toe nails for fun!

hugs

__________________________________________________

December 30, 2006

Technically DE is Germany. I know most country codes as I'm an

Internet/IT nerd working for a global company.

GR is for Grand Rapids. Yes the city where they're going to bury

President Ford. He'll be resting about 3/4 a mile from my house.

Mearurements eh? I'll bet I can beat any measurements you have by 1/3

more before I had surgery.

Mike in Ford Land

>

> Thanks Mike in GR

>

> is GR Germany or am I having a brain dead moment.

>

> I am living proof you canlearn to live with anything. When they

first

> starting working me up to figure out what was wrong it was IC or

> Bladder Cancer. So I'm still lucky, with Bladder Cancer I would not

> have had a choice but a bag.

>

> But from reading all of you guys posts in the different areas, it

has

> helped me to stay positive that I can do this too.

>

> And as soon as I get the nerve up, I'm going to post some pictures

and

> take my measurements (those will not be posted).

>

December 30, 2006

haha Thanks!!!!! Maybe with my new hot self (that was hard to say hahaha) and my

foot behind my head, I can go to match.com as suggested huh? LOL!!!!!!! Too

funny!

lisamathis76 lisamathis76@...> wrote: By the way Shauna, you

look HOT! Mucho gusto! Your pictures were

great! I'm glad you can paint your toes now! I know the feeling...

> >

> > Hello all,

> >

> > Well, somehow the UPS guy came to my apartment without my

knowledge

> > for a SECOND day! I was here all day. I ordered those darn books

> > with 1 day shipping from amazon. I'm really annoyed!!!! Another

> > sticky posty note on my door!

> >

> > Despite me trying to talk myself whenever I feel this

way....when I

> > eat these days, I look at it and think " I guess I won't be

eating

> > that anymore. " My sis in law who had the surgery 18 months ago

> told

> > me I shouldn't think like that. I can't help it. I see enough

> > people for therapy and all, but I am having trouble convincing

> myself

> > that I can eat some of the things I like, but down the road.....

> > Does anyone have any secrets on how to talk yourself out of the

> > premature feelings of " missing " food?

> >

> > I still have swelling in my lower legs, but it didn't happen

> > overnight. My hands are a bit puffy still, but like I said last

> > night, my doctor said it wasn't significant to warrant

medication.

> I

> > still have some Lasix from over the summer.....but I'm sort of

> afraid

> > to take it without anyone knowing it (doctor-wise). Although, as

I

> > was leaving the office, he told me to " watch the salt. " I guess

it

> > doesn't help that I put some soy sauce on my white rice and

chicken

> > at dinner tonight. I tried to use it sparingly, but now I feel

> that

> > it's all my fault.

> >

> > I found out that I can continue taking Seasonale (even after

> surgery)

> > if I use it just to keep my cycle regular. Not for birth

control.

> I

> > don't have to worry about that for quite some time....it's been

at

> > least 3 YEARS since I've had to " concern myself " with birth

control

> > for the actual purpose of preventing pregnancy, if you know what

I

> > mean. (Whole other issue, which I hope will

> > get " resolved " .......sometime after surgery.)

> >

> > Still having CPAP problems. I've woken up two mornings this week

> > with the mask on the floor AND the machine turned off!

Pulmonology

> > doc said to keep trying.

> >

> > Another bunch of my " wishes " is to be able to get dressed and

put

> on

> > my shoes without all the effort it takes me now. Walk without

> pain,

> > stand without pain.....stop taking all the darn meds I have to

take

> > now. I still want 's secret, but it pales in comparison

to

> > the ACTUAL reasons why I want this surgery so badly!

> >

> > I know it's been asked before, but would a " veteran " on here

tell

> me

> > about a good high protein, unflavored protein powder? My

> > nutritionist told me I should have 60 (is it mg or g?) of

protein

> per

> > day. Does that sound about right to you guys?

> >

> > Sorry that this post is negative. I have my ups and downs these

> > days. I'm so glad you guys are all here for me.

> >

> > I think I'm going to watch a little TV now.

> >

> > Hugs to all,

> > Love,

> > Cathy

> > a bit of a sad butterfly in training

> >

>

> __________________________________________________

>

December 30, 2006

Mike and all

Yep, ole was having a brain dead moment, Grand Rapids in deed.

Yes you probably can beat any measurments, guys are always bigger and

more muscular than girls, that why we like you guys. Ha ha.

I guess my deal is I remember how good I looked (even for my age) 4

years ago after sucessfully losing 40 pounds and working out solid for

8 months. and I worked hard to keep that up until I got to sick to do

anything.

and Yes we all must take times for ourselves and do for ourselves. My

health is my primary concern, but a little vanity is good too. I'm

married and I like to look good for my husband. He loves me no matter

what, he says it and proves it. and I know I'm a lucky, lucky woman,

but I won't to look good for me and for him. I know when I look good

his chest pokes out a little further.

December 30, 2006

forgive me, the bad got loose. Even at my slimmest I could not

get my foot behind my head.

I think I'll make that one of my stretching exercises though, could be

interesting.

December 30, 2006

Very well said . You always have to look at the big picture and

realize that someone out there has it worse than you. Be thankful each

& every day for what you can do. What you can have. Etc. :-)

Yes, I just lost my dad. But my 2 brothers...they don't have either of

their parents living now. At least I still have my mom. We're having a

hard time financially because of this whole child support mess...but at

least we've still got a house to live in. There are people out there

living in a card board box. You realize you don't have it so bad when

you look around at others. And that makes me grateful for what I do have.

W

380/254/160

magnoliamouth wrote: