Daily Blog

Kendra...that is F A B U L O U S....40 lbs. gone! Oh my gosh! Keep
focused and determined...We are proud of you!
Hugs from Illinois,
Jilllll
Dr. Houston 6/6/06
275/210

Wanda,

I don't know why people bring you food when they know that you aren't supposed to be eating it. Just plain ignorance I guess. Just shake off today and start another day annue. Have a great holiday in florida and be safe.

Tammy

Wanda <wlsky@...

Hi everyone. . . I am struggling with food. Our family has their Christmas tomorrow and
I have been cooking all day and eating all day too. I am feeling physically ill right now
from all the junk that I hafve put in my body. Sometimes I think I should have had my
mouth sewn up instead of my stomach. It amazes me that even though people know
what I have gone thru to lose the weight that they bring me candy for Christmas. It amazes
me even more than after every thing I have gone thru to lose the weight that I eat it. [INLINE]
Thankfully tomorrow is a new day. Hopefully I have made myself sufficiently ill that tomorrow will be a more healthy day. I am leaving for FL Christmas Day so I won't be
posting or reading unless my son's laptop is working. Merry Christmas to you all and
I will be talking to y ou next year.

Wanda
Dr Olsen 08/16/04
289/???/150

Ms. Cathy, you are a wealth of information and we appreciate it so
much!
Wishing you, Mike, Jamie and your family a Merry 'Christ'mas!
Hugs,
Jilllllll

To my DEAR WL Friends....I finished wrapping the last present and had
a little talk with my patient, dear Jim. He's feeling bad that he
can't do anything because of that darn fractured hip. I just simply
told him...don't worry, I'll 'let' you do EVERYTHING when you get
back on your two feet : - )) Now wasn't that sweet of me?!
I wish each and every one of you a most Blessed Christmas.
To our friends who haven't had your surgery, we will be there to
support you each step of the way! Keep posting and asking questions.
To our friends who have started their journey, it's just been nothing
short of wonderful to walk along side of you via emails, holding your
hand, caring and watching you 'shrink' before our eyes!!!
I was in a store today and saw a woman I worked with years ago....she
stopped me and said, wow...you look great. I simply said thanks and
we then talked about how things are going for us.
It's interesting as I know I lost weight but hard to STILL accept
compliments....Hmmmmmmmmm I'd better work on that.
Now I know Santa will be good to all of you...whether it's a present,
a hug, a wowwwww moment and/or being with family and friends.
Happy Birthday, Jesus!
Love to all,
Jillllll

You lost 40lbs in a month! 16 by the llth is reasonable, but don't sweat it if you don't make it. Start with setting yourself small goals... like 5lbs. Then celebrate when you make it (without food!). When you go to your appointment, ask Dr. H for a goal. Trust me, he'll give you one. He'll probably give you the "ideal" goal (what you should weigh for your height) but he'll also probably give you one that's very reasonable based on your height, age, and how long you've been overweight.

Cathy, 12/20/04

Houston - 420/204/180

www.picturetrail.com/cathyspencer

www.obesityhelp.com/member/cathyspencer
Kendra <kendrahummel@...

I'm 5'7"...started at 355....now i'm down to around 315...had an RNY
with Houston on 11/27...
i see him again on 1/11 and would like to be at 299 ...is that
realistic? I've never been good at setting weight goals..heckc...I
don't even know what my goal weight is?!! Also, i am going to Disney
at the end of April...what do y'all think would be a good goal to
shoot for by April?

Cathy Spencer (12/20/04)
http://www.PictureTrail.com/cathyspencer
http://www.obesityhelp.com/member/cathyspencer/

I'm 5'7"...started at 355....now i'm down to around 315...had an RNY
with Houston on 11/27...
i see him again on 1/11 and would like to be at 299 ...is that
realistic? I've never been good at setting weight goals..heckc...I
don't even know what my goal weight is?!! Also, i am going to Disney
at the end of April...what do y'all think would be a good goal to
shoot for by April?

Merry Christmas to you too Bonita!

Cathy, 12/20/04

Houston - 420/204/180

www.picturetrail.com/cathyspencer

www.obesityhelp.com/member/cathyspencer
paperstocker <BamaBIT@...

Just wanted to take a quick minute and wish all of my WLS friends a
Merry Christmas and as Dr. Frye says "live in the present." Make it a
good one! And truly remember that Jesus is the Reason for the Season.
Sending warm thoughts and hugs your way tonight!
Bonita/Dr. Houston
7/11/06
296/196

Cathy Spencer (12/20/04)
http://www.PictureTrail.com/cathyspencer
http://www.obesityhelp.com/member/cathyspencer/

Just wanted to take a quick minute and wish all of my WLS friends a
Merry Christmas and as Dr. Frye says "live in the present." Make it a
good one! And truly remember that Jesus is the Reason for the Season.
Sending warm thoughts and hugs your way tonight!
Bonita/Dr. Houston
7/11/06
296/196

I, too am very interested in this, especially if they get the cost down to $150. I have some major plumbing problems that have to be addressed after Christmas and am not sure of money yet. But, tentatively count me in!

Merry Christmas to all,

Valerie

Julie Williams <jwilliams705resource@...
OK all, I just talked to "the" Barbara Thompson on the phone....she is willing to come to Nashville and do a weekend retreat July 20th from 6 p.m. until July 22nd around 1:00 p.m. Here is what we as a group need to do to make this happen and affordable. We need 30 people committed to attending (that shouldn't be that difficult) and the cost is $300 per person (HOWEVER, she stated that our Doctors could solicit support from their corporate people such as the suppliers of the medical supplies, medicines, etc.) And if they would do that along with a solicitation of the hospital for support then the cost could be as little as $150 all inclusive for the weekend.
Let me know what everyone thinks.
Julie Williams

Valerie

"Kindness is more important than wisdom, and the recognition of this is the beginning of wisdom"

-Theodore Issac Rubin

Bonita,

I can't wait to have all of that energy!!! I used to be able to burn up the floor at work. I'm a nurse so sometimes I really have to run. I still can but not like I used to and it wears me OUT! I can't wait to have this energy. I'm so tired of being sick and tired ya know. It's just not my personality but I've given into the weight and it's sapped my energy!

I'm hoping today will be a better day! I've just been miserable. This bug has kicked my butt!

Thanks for the encouragement my friend!

I hope you have a Merry Christmas and a Blessed holiday!

Janie

Janie...I might be interested in the bed & dresser. Tell me a little more about it.

Wanda

Gotta love this message.......hum? What would my husband do?
Note: forwarded message attached.
Julie Williams
Math Teacher
Western Math, Science, and Technology Magnet High School

Just wanted to wish everyone a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

Hoping you all have a great day and Remember The Reason For The Season!!

Steve
Dr. Houston
10/25/06
353/297

Hang in there Wanda....remember I love you girl! Merry Christmas!
CATHY SPENCER <cathyjds@...

Wanda,

I know it's so hard. When folks give me stuff I can't eat, I try to work through it by saying to myself, "If she handed me poison for a gift, would I eat it?" Then I remind myself that as far as I am concerned, candy, cookies, and other like goodies are POISON to me, as I have the disease of obesity, and I am a recovering Food/sugar addict.

Cathy, 12/20/04
Houston - 420/204/180
www.picturetrail.com/cathyspencer
www.obesityhelp.com/member/cathyspencer

Thanks Linda.

Dad

Wanda,

I know it's so hard. When folks give me stuff I can't eat, I try to work through it by saying to myself, "If she handed me poison for a gift, would I eat it?" Then I remind myself that as far as I am concerned, candy, cookies, and other like goodies are POISON to me, as I have the disease of obesity, and I am a recovering Food/sugar addict.

Cathy, 12/20/04

Houston - 420/204/180

www.picturetrail.com/cathyspencer

www.obesityhelp.com/member/cathyspencer
Wanda <wlsky@...

Hi everyone. . . I am struggling with food. Our family has their Christmas tomorrow and
I have been cooking all day and eating all day too. I am feeling physically ill right now
from all the junk that I hafve put in my body. Sometimes I think I should have had my
mouth sewn up instead of my stomach. It amazes me that even though people know
what I have gone thru to lose the weight that they bring me candy for Christmas. It amazes
me even more than after every thing I have gone thru to lose the weight that I eat it. [INLINE]
Thankfully tomorrow is a new day. Hopefully I have made myself sufficiently ill that tomorrow will be a more healthy day. I am leaving for FL Christmas Day so I won't be
posting or reading unless my son's laptop is working. Merry Christmas to you all and
I will be talking to y ou next year.

Wanda
Dr Olsen 08/16/04
289/???/150

Merry Christmas to All!!!!!!!!!!

Kathleen (Kathy) Gardner

Dr.Olsen

230/118

4/20/04

Wanda you are human, welcome to club!

kathy
Wanda <wlsky@...

Hi everyone. . . I am struggling with food. Our family has their Christmas tomorrow and
I have been cooking all day and eating all day too. I am feeling physically ill right now
from all the junk that I hafve put in my body. Sometimes I think I should have had my
mouth sewn up instead of my stomach. It amazes me that even though people know
what I have gone thru to lose the weight that they bring me candy for Christmas. It amazes
me even more than after every thing I have gone thru to lose the weight that I eat it. [INLINE]
Thankfully tomorrow is a new day. Hopefully I have made myself sufficiently ill that tomorrow will be a more healthy day. I am leaving for FL Christmas Day so I won't be
posting or reading unless my son's laptop is working. Merry Christmas to you all and
I will be talking to y ou next year.

Wanda
Dr Olsen 08/16/04
289/???/150

Hi everyone. . . I am struggling with food. Our family has their Christmas tomorrow and

I have been cooking all day and eating all day too. I am feeling physically ill right now

from all the junk that I hafve put in my body. Sometimes I think I should have had my

mouth sewn up instead of my stomach. It amazes me that even though people know

what I have gone thru to lose the weight that they bring me candy for Christmas. It amazes

me even more than after every thing I have gone thru to lose the weight that I eat it. [INLINE]

Thankfully tomorrow is a new day. Hopefully I have made myself sufficiently ill that tomorrow will be a more healthy day. I am leaving for FL Christmas Day so I won't be

posting or reading unless my son's laptop is working. Merry Christmas to you all and

I will be talking to y ou next year.

Wanda

Dr Olsen 08/16/04

289/???/150

WOW! I wish I had your energy Bonita! I'm hoping that after surgery, I'll be
able to clean out our bonus room and make it into a REAL bonus room instead of a
junk room. I have what was left of a lot of my parents stuff which is going to a
yard sale or Goodwill! Anyone want an antique bed and dresser???? I have no room
for it!!!
I haven't done anything today. I'm getting over a nasty stomach bug. I don't
have to worry about overeating this holiday! My hubby is going to Wally World
(Walmart) tonight to finish up some shopping (he's going late so to avoid the
crowd). I've made some chex party mix today. That's been my contribution to the
day! Tomorrow, I'm hoping to do some more baking. We have Christmas eve service
tomorrow night, then I'll have to come home and fix my breakfast casserole for
Christmas morning.
My hubby's parents come down to Gallatin from Ky Christmas morning to have
Christmas with us and eat breakfast (or brunch...whatever you want to call it)
I'm looking forward to Christmas morning!
Hope you have a Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year!
Janie

Oh Kendra, Thank you so much for reminding us all that
JESUS is the true reason for the season. Without Him,
His Grace, His Mercy and His Love For Each And
Everyone of us Where Would We Be?
Enjoy Christmas with your little girl.
Merry Christmas to each and every one of you and a
Happy, Healthy, Prosperous New year.
Sandi R
8/27/06
331/257/151
Dr. Olsen

Hey Dad, I wanted to let you know that you looked
GREAT today. I was shocked! Todd and I (Todd is my
hubby)were talking about it on the way home and I told
him I couldn't believe the transformation you've gone
through in just the last couple of weeks, and if I did
not know, I would've guessed you'd lost a lot more!
You look great! It makes me even more excited to get
the surgery done.
I'll see ya tomorrow!!
Love ya!
Linda

I wanted to wish everyone a very merry Christmas!!!!
Linda

I just wanted to take a second to wish everyone here a blessed, love-
filled Christmas. Even with my tear inducing plateau (I think it's
about over...down to 316) I can't help but truly appreciate the
meaning of Christmas. My surgery has given me a second chance at
life...and I praise God for that. It was 3 months from my seminar to
my surgery..and I didn't even have the right paperwork for my
insurance but I got an RNY AND a LapBand approved at 100% from a
stickler company. God is so good! I know He has such a big plan for
me and I just can't believe the opportunities I have already had to
share love, joy, and hope. When you think about it....the ultimate
gift...Jesus...man...we don't deserve Him or His grace but that's
love! Well....gotta go share some love with my little girl..she's WAY
into Christmas this year! Oh to be 4 1/2 again!! lol God Bless!!!!

Hi Janie,
I understand somewhat about what you have went through
the past few years. My dad passed away 21 years ago
and for all practical purposes my mom is not here
anymore. She lives with my dh and I. She has
alzheimers and parkinsons. She still knows my and
Rob's names. But says she wouldn't recognize my
brother if he walked in right now. My younger brother
passed away on July 20, 2006. He was only 41 years
old.
He had cancer. When he was so bad and I was traveling
back and forth to the nursing home where he was the
last two months of his life. I used that travel time
as my pig time. I would stop and get something to eat
going and something to eat coming back. I would always
eat, eat, & eat some more when I was stressed out. I
have been over weight for 40 years. I tried every diet
known to man. I should be part owner in some of the
weight lose programs that are out there. I was OW when
Rob and I got married 12 years ago tomorrow. He was
also some 100 lbs OW. We just got to the point that
we didn't care what we looked like just as long as we
were together. Two years ago my Dr, started talking to
both of us about the WLS and Robert was adiment that I
was not going to have it and neither was he. His mind
changed after he met one of his co workers who had had
the surgery and he was so impressed by his success
that, he began to do some research and found several
other drivers where he worked that had WLS. He got me
some names and phone numbers of people to call and
talk to. I used OH to do research. The rest is
history.
I am only 4 months out. I have lost 74 lbs and feel
better than I have felt in years. Robert just had his
WLS Dec. 19. He is doing ok, still having problem
getting all his liquids in, but he will make it.
Thanks for sharing your story and I am sorry I have
rattled on so long.
Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy Healthy Prosperous
New Year.
Sandi R
8/28/06
331/257/151
Dr. Olsen

Just curious as I'm sure there was all kinds of madness today. LOL! Personally, I decided last night was the time to clean my scrapbook room once and for all. So I started about 9:30ish, stayed up until about 2:30ish working. Got back up this AM around 10 and started again. I'm a collector of scrapbook supplies more so than actually doing the hobby it seems (remember this conversation at the party Rachel?) LOL! I've been at it all day and I'm close to being finished. I wanted to get this done so that next week I can get serious about it and get some scrapbook pages actually done! I think the whole crew is going to go see "The Santa Clause 3" movie tonight. Then we'll do early church in the AM, Christmas Eve Service tomorow night at 11:00 pm. Then head out sometime mid-morning on Monday back to AL for the day/night to celebrate w/my family. Nothing too big and exciting but enough to keep things fun, etc.

Stay safe everybody and have a very Merry Christmas!

Hugs to all!

Bonita/Dr. Houston

7/11/06

296/196

Sandi-

YOU CAN DO IT! Don't dare think otherwise. Don't be consumed with it, follow the program and it will happen!

Janie,

Thanks for sharing. I can relate with your move and all the adjustments. We moved from AL to KY ten and a half years ago and didn't know a soul when we moved here. But it's home now and we can't imagine having raised our two teenagers (now) in the small town, economically depressed area where we lived before moving. There have been struggles not being closer to family when needed (my dad just passed away last Nov w/cancer). But dh and I have always been the "dependable" ones for both of our families, etc. So it's been good to be able to break away from some of that dependance and kind of have our own lives. I'm so sorry that both of your parents are no longer with you. I know dealing with some of those emotional issues related to their deaths can be overwhelming sometimes too. My dad and I had a troubled relationship but I still miss him and especially miss him for my kids and my nices and nephews (who were only 1 and 2 months when he died). Emotional "stuff" and stress
caused a significant increase in my weight too. I'm realizing that for me, I just have to let it go. Otherwise, it still causes me to be emotional and stressed. Then my kids and dh come up short. Don't mean to ramble. The surgery does help you to get to the core of it all and it takes time. But it's so worth it emotionally and physically. There's a sense of freedom that comes with it, or at least it has for me. Good luck to you in your journey and we're glad you're here.

Hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas and make some great memories!

Hugs!

Bonita/Dr. Houston

7/11/06

296/196

ok,I don't think I've been completely honest because I've used my fat
to hide for so long that I'm not comfortable letting anyone in without
the fear of getting hurt. I have found that you guys are OK for me to
be honest with. It's time to open up and let you all know the real me.
So here's the whole story.
1. I'm 45 and I'm married to a wonderful supportive husband for the
last 17yrs. We have 3 beautiful children. We moved here to Gallatin
from Hopkinsville, Ky in 1999 for my hubby's job. He works at one of
the local TV stations in Nashville as an engineer. I miss Hoptown as
that's where my family and friends are but the move has been a good
thing for us. I've had a tough time adjusting but Gallatin feels more
like home the longer we're here.
2. I'm a nurse in the cath lab at the hospital in Lebanon. I've been
an RN for 20+ yrs. I've worked in Critical Care for 18 yrs and am a
total crises junkie! I miss my friends from Jennie Stuart Medical
Center in Hoptown. I suppose I've always defined who I am by what I did.
3. My hubby and I are both only children. My DH's parents still live
in Hoptown. I lost my mom 4 yrs ago suddenly. I lost my dad to suicide
2 yrs ago. (Exactly 2yrs from when my mom died)I miss them both
terribly.
I've gained a large majority of my weight since my parents have been
gone. I've had some real emotional problems which I won't go into
detail about cause it doesn't really matter. But it's been a helluva
few years. I couldn't have gotten through it without my hubby. I'm
really nervous about getting the surgery because I won't have anything
to hide behind anymore. But it's really a cool thing cause I am ready
to let it all go. THANK GOD FOR GOOD DRUGS and THERAPY!
OK, the forum is open for questions now! I'm looking forward to a
great Christmas with my family!
Wishing all of you a Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year!
Love!
Janie

Here ia one more! I am actually going to get pics on the website!

Kathy
jyllyann1 <jyllyann@...

I am sooooooo proud to be a little part of this website. It's truly
amazing to see each and every email and how you all care about each
other.
Have a super duper day and the countdown is TWO.
Blessings & Love to all,
Jillllllllll

Kathleen (Kathy) Gardner

Dr.Olsen

230/118

4/20/04

I am sooooooo proud to be a little part of this website. It's truly
amazing to see each and every email and how you all care about each
other.
Have a super duper day and the countdown is TWO.
Blessings & Love to all,
Jillllllllll

Good Morning......I always do everything backwards...had a breast reduction about 12 years ago....the pain wasn't that bad. I was off work a little over a week. Went into his office, and that afternoon went home. It was certainly worth it.
Julie Williams
Math Teacher
Western Math, Science, and Technology Magnet High School

I just had to jump in here as I can relate so well. Gone south??? Mine are at the South Pole!!! LOL ... I just roll them up like a sock and put them in the Playtex super sock holder!!! My dream is to get some reconstructive surgery on them and my arms (preferably at the same time as I only want pain once!).

Valerie

Posted by: "Kathleen" javajunky06@... javajunky06

Thu Dec 21, 2006 1:38 pm (PST)

Yes i would like an answer to this one too, My girls have gone south and i don't think they are coming back! hahahaha
Linda T <Lydat@comcast.net
I was going to do my measurement this morning but I have a question.
When doing the bust measurement where do you measure? How do you
measure? Do you hold the girls up and have someone measure? Measure
down around the mid section? Put on that good support bra? The girls
are beginning to look like deflated balloons. I am down to a 38 long!
Linda T
210/185/130
Dr Houston

Valerie

"Kindness is more important than wisdom, and the recognition of this is the beginning of wisdom"

-Theodore Issac Rubin

Great goals. Keep posting.
Tammy Parker <bamagal4ever@...

I'm not much for making them, really, but here goes:

1: Get my surgery......MOST IMPORTANT
2: Set goals for myself
3: Sign up for college
4: Work on being healthier

Now that it's wrote down it just seems more real somehow...
Tammy

Robert is feeling better this afternoon and evening.
Last night and this morning was pretty bad for him.
He is still sore from his surgery. He has 8 little
incisions on his tummy. He is using his breathing
machine more and is walking a little straighter
tonight. He has almost gotten 64 oz of liquids in
today. He just told me he had until midnight to get
the other 10 oz in. I think he might just make it.
He was starting to dehydrate and that really worried
me. I kept telling him to sip, sip, sip, sip,.
Once the drains were removed he did begin to feel
better and after they changed his pain meds he started
feeling better.
Sandi R
8/28/06
Dr. Olsen
331/257/151

Sandi,

So glad you and Rob are home and he's gotten a few days behind him now. Although I failed to email you prior to his going in for surgery (we were out of town all weekend and got home late Mon. night) you all were definitely in my thoughts and prayers this whole week long.

I totally understand about your dogs. We have two shih tzu's ourselves and they're part of our family. One of them had 6 puppies the first of Oct and over the past 1.5 wk they have (all but 2) gone to new homes for Christmas. We fret over their leaving for seveal days afterwards and wonder if they're doing okay, etc and we miss them terribly!!! Know that Cubby will be in our prayers for some healing too as I know how close you all must be. Give him an extra hug for me!

Merry Christmas to you and Rob. Hope you enjoy this time together!

Bonita

Dr. Houston/7/11/06

296/196

Sandi,

I sure was glad to hear that Robert was able to come home. I know that he was in a lot of pain at the hospital after his surgery. Both Cathy S. and Kathy H. and Jill kept us posted on his progress. Is he in a lot of pain now since he has come home? Is he having trouble with the incision sight since it was bothering him when he was in the hospital? I will continue to pray for his recovery and for you and your little baby, Cubby, of course. That was sweet of you to tell Ozzie Merry Christmas...You truely are a dog lover!!!!!!

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO YOU AND YOURS!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hugs to you from Shelbyville,

Tammy & Ozzie

legs will also cramp from not enough calcium intake sometimes Magnesium
Linda

I'm not much for making them, really, but here goes:

1: Get my surgery......MOST IMPORTANT

2: Set goals for myself

3: Sign up for college

4: Work on being healthier

Now that it's wrote down it just seems more real somehow...

Tammy

So glad you are home. Welcome to the losing side Robert!
Sandi <rlrsbaby@...

Hello Everyone,
I am working on reading all the email's. I want to wish each and everyone of you guys a very MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY HEALTHY, BLESSED, PROSPEROUS, AND WEIGHT LOSING NEW YEAR. :D
Robert is feeling much better today. He had a rough night last night. We would like to say thank you to all of you for your thoughts and prayers.
GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU!!!!!!
Sandi R,
8/28/06, 331/257/151, Dr. Olsen

Julie Williams
Math Teacher
Western Math, Science, and Technology Magnet High School

Sandi,

I don't think you are crazy at all. I am a dog person myself and I have one that I love very much, Ozzie, a shih tzu. I adopted him and he sleeps with me and follows me around like my shadow and since I don't have kids, he is my child. So, yes I will definately pray for him and I will pray for you too as you are the one that will be learning how to administer the shots. I gave one of my dogs one time CPR when she was dying. Because they are so much like people and they really do have just about everything that we do. My heart truely goes out to you and Robert. Keep me posted Sandi.

Hugs to you,

Tammy & Ozzie
Sandi <rlrsbaby@...

Just so you all know Robert and I are dog (two dogs) people. We have
a pommy and a shishu. Our pommy, (Cubby) is 10 1/2 years old. I went
to pick him up at the kennel today and his sitter told me she was
concerned about his weight lose, I told her since I had been walking
every day, he walked with me and we usually do about two miles a day
and I thought that was why he was losing weight. She convinced me to
stop by the vets office and let him just check him out. Cubby has
went from 13 lbs in June to 9 lbs today. He has a heart murmur,
congestive heart diease, and he is also a diabeties. His blood sugar
was 460. You may think I am crazy for asking you all to pray for my
dog, but he is like our child. Robert bought him for me he was only 5
weeks old and has been my constant companion for all these years. He
sleeps with me when Rob is on the road, and when he is home he sleeps
between us. So please pray for my Cubby. The vet said he could live
anywhere from 6 months to another 10 years. He will have to stay in
the doggie hospital for three to five days after the first of the
year to get his insulin regulated. Then the vet is going to teach me
how to give him his insulin shots. He will have to take 4 units two
times a day.
Thanks
Sandi R
8/28/06
Dr. Olsen
331/257/151

Just so you all know Robert and I are dog (two dogs) people. We have
a pommy and a shishu. Our pommy, (Cubby) is 10 1/2 years old. I went
to pick him up at the kennel today and his sitter told me she was
concerned about his weight lose, I told her since I had been walking
every day, he walked with me and we usually do about two miles a day
and I thought that was why he was losing weight. She convinced me to
stop by the vets office and let him just check him out. Cubby has
went from 13 lbs in June to 9 lbs today. He has a heart murmur,
congestive heart diease, and he is also a diabeties. His blood sugar
was 460. You may think I am crazy for asking you all to pray for my
dog, but he is like our child. Robert bought him for me he was only 5
weeks old and has been my constant companion for all these years. He
sleeps with me when Rob is on the road, and when he is home he sleeps
between us. So please pray for my Cubby. The vet said he could live
anywhere from 6 months to another 10 years. He will have to stay in
the doggie hospital for three to five days after the first of the
year to get his insulin regulated. Then the vet is going to teach me
how to give him his insulin shots. He will have to take 4 units two
times a day.
Thanks
Sandi R
8/28/06
Dr. Olsen
331/257/151

Thanks. Haven't really left home today, tummy still hurts BUT definitely feel better.
Tammy Parker <bamagal4ever@...

Julie,
The game was alot of fun....a good idea!!! Although I must admit I didn't know all of them...I did get 7 out of 10, which for me was good. I really need to do more of those kind of puzzles to make my mind work more...get some of the cobwebbers out. Glad that you are feeling much better and are over your sickness before the holidays.

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!!!!!!!
Hugs,
Tammy

Hello Everyone,

I am working on reading all the email's. I want to wish each and everyone of you guys a very MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY HEALTHY, BLESSED, PROSPEROUS, AND WEIGHT LOSING NEW YEAR. :D

Robert is feeling much better today. He had a rough night last night. We would like to say thank you to all of you for your thoughts and prayers.

GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU!!!!!!

Sandi R,

8/28/06, 331/257/151, Dr. Olsen

She is the author of some WLS books...must read stuff....and has been there herself. go to www.WLSCenter.com

I think I have read all of her books AND I subscribe to her online newsletter. Good stuff in it.
jyllyann1 <jyllyann@...

The retreat sounds great...but I'll have to see how things are going
here in Illinois. Let's put it this way...I will if I can! Those
are always super times to be together.
Now I am having a SENIOR MOMENT...who is Barbara Thompson...gosh, I'm
embarrassing myself but hey remember I'll be 60 and the grandma of
this bunch of CRAZIES!!!!!
Thanks, Linda...take care.
Jillllll

Thanks Julie for the greeting card, I really
appreciated it. What a blessing you are to all of us.
Merry Christmas and a Blessed, Happy, & Prosperous New
Year.
Sandi R
Dr. Olsen
8/28/06
331/257/151

I was in one-der-land about 8 months out from my surgery and gained back to 228. Just

so no one misunderstands...that is what I mean by getting back there. Also I never told

anyone I got back up that far but I did. Now I am all clean [INLINE] . So if anyone of you are tempted to get back on the carbs.....DON'T DO IT...IT IS NOT WORK IT.

Wanda

Dr Olsen 08/16/04

289/212/150

Yeah Jill....I am amoung the few here who will remember that song. I am already 60 and

find myself saying amen to a lot of your posts. I hope you too have a great weekend.

I have seen something about a Hopkinsville Support Group starting in the new year. I

sure hope that happens. I am not that far from Nashville but as I get older I don't do

well driving at night. Also, I won't even mention how lost I got when I came to Nashville

for the party. [INLINE] Anyway, off I go to do more Christmas stuff. I wrap a while, cook a while, sit a while (that I do best) and then start all over.

Wanda

Dr Olsen 08/16/04

289/212/150

Thanks Jilllll!
Merrrrrrrrrry Christmas to you! Have a blessed holiday!
Janie

I was just trying to think of when the last time I was at one-
derland....and finally it hit me. It was 25 years ago when I was
divorced with three little boys 9, 6, & 3. Wowwwww, that will
certainly make me work harder to get there in 2007...a new beginning!
Jillllll
Dr. Houston 6/6/06
275/210

Oh yes, that window of opportunity....It's been 6 mos. for me and I'm
having a difficult time...I wish I was closer to Nashville for the
meetings and Dr. Houston. 'I (WE) WILL SURVIVE'..... Now that's an
old Gloria Gaynor song.
Have a good weekend, Wanda....Oh yes, I have some good pics....so
when I get some time Ms. Spencer's going to help me post them.
Hugs,
Jillllllll

I truly hope you'll be able to click on this site and hear the words to
the song I sent to all of 'Angels Among Us' the other day. If you
can't open it up, please copy and paste and it should take you to it. I
get pretty sentimental during the holidays....can you tell???
ENJOY the Alabama song!
http://ghulpsprayercircle.homestead.com/Angels2.html
Wishing each of you Angels a wonderful Blessed Christmas!
Jillllllllll

I just wanted to say Merry Christmas to all and i wish all of you the
happiest new years! have a safe and happy holiday!
Kathleen

hummmmm we may have to change that early evening stuff!!!

hey tho i have seen the ball drop on new years eve, then went to bed would that be classified as chicago style?

hehehehe

Kathy
jyllyann1 <jyllyann@...

Kathy....I'm happy to see you'll be joining us. By the sounds of it,
it maybe be an all afternoon and early evening PARTYYYY....perfect
for us old folks : - ))))
I remember when I lived in Seattle and some 'older' friends were
going out for New Year's Eve. They told me it was a Chicago Style
New Year's Eve....so being from Illinois, I thought hmmmmm...I'll go
as we've had some great parties in IL. Well, what they meant by
Chicago Style was that Chicago was a couple hours behind Seattle so
they had their hootin' & hollerin' done by 10PM Chicago time. They
were well tucked in their beds at midnight/Seattle time. I've
laughed about that for years now.
Aunt Blabby will now sign off....have a great weekend! See you in
March.
Christmas Blessings,
Jillllllll

The retreat sounds great...but I'll have to see how things are going
here in Illinois. Let's put it this way...I will if I can! Those
are always super times to be together.
Now I am having a SENIOR MOMENT...who is Barbara Thompson...gosh, I'm
embarrassing myself but hey remember I'll be 60 and the grandma of
this bunch of CRAZIES!!!!!
Thanks, Linda...take care.
Jillllll

Kathy....I'm happy to see you'll be joining us. By the sounds of it,
it maybe be an all afternoon and early evening PARTYYYY....perfect
for us old folks : - ))))
I remember when I lived in Seattle and some 'older' friends were
going out for New Year's Eve. They told me it was a Chicago Style
New Year's Eve....so being from Illinois, I thought hmmmmm...I'll go
as we've had some great parties in IL. Well, what they meant by
Chicago Style was that Chicago was a couple hours behind Seattle so
they had their hootin' & hollerin' done by 10PM Chicago time. They
were well tucked in their beds at midnight/Seattle time. I've
laughed about that for years now.
Aunt Blabby will now sign off....have a great weekend! See you in
March.
Christmas Blessings,
Jillllllll

Julie,

The game was alot of fun....a good idea!!! Although I must admit I didn't know all of them...I did get 7 out of 10, which for me was good. I really need to do more of those kind of puzzles to make my mind work more...get some of the cobwebbers out. Glad that you are feeling much better and are over your sickness before the holidays.

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!!!!!!!

Hugs,

Tammy

Cool. Count me in for both.
jyllyann1 <jyllyann@...

Okay, Ladies & Gentlemen! How about this idea....We'll visit at
CMC's office from 1-4pm and those who would like to go to dinner can
meet at a designated place TBA at a later time. This might work for
everyone. Your thoughts?????
Christmas Blessings,
Jilllllll

Jill,

When I do something like that I aways say, "Better check my B-12 consumption!"
jyllyann1 <jyllyann@...

At one day I would have said I attributed the 1,0000 to a "HEAVY"
finger but what's my excuse this time : - ))))) Maybe being in a
rush....I hope that was it.
At the rate we are going it could be that many! It's soooo much fun
getting to know one of you Light Weights and Light Weights To Be....
Hugs and love to al,
Jilllllll

Make that 29 people

Linda Tidwell

Okay, Ladies & Gentlemen! How about this idea....We'll visit at
CMC's office from 1-4pm and those who would like to go to dinner can
meet at a designated place TBA at a later time. This might work for
everyone. Your thoughts?????
Christmas Blessings,
Jilllllll

At one day I would have said I attributed the 1,0000 to a "HEAVY"
finger but what's my excuse this time : - ))))) Maybe being in a
rush....I hope that was it.
At the rate we are going it could be that many! It's soooo much fun
getting to know one of you Light Weights and Light Weights To Be....
Hugs and love to al,
Jilllllll

So Glad you are feeling better. There has been a stomach virus going around here

for several weeks. So glad I have not had it and I wish you a full recovery.

Best Wishes for a Merry Christmas and a "Prosperous" New Year.

Wanda

Hi, this is Julie. I just sent you an electronic greeting card - Click here to see it!

OR

Copy and paste this link into your web browser's address bar:
http://gallery.myfuncards.com/retrieve.jsp?c=c9A7_jVXonboBx_5rA6Sz0OUe4XqRZr4

OR

Go to the eCard Pickup Page and enter the following card code:
c9A7_jVXonboBx_5rA6Sz0OUe4XqRZr4

If you have any questions, please visit our help pages

Thanks for using MyFunCards!

Ok here we go...I have never made a New Years resolution that did not include losing weight lol. This will be no exception:

1. Get back to Onederland and stay there this time.

2. Learn to love my body with all the extra skin, flaps, wings, wrinkles etc and

not to try to plump it back up with the fat that wants to kill me.

3. Live a life that I am proud of.

Merry Christmas to all you Losers and a blessed New Year

Wanda

Dr Olsen 08/16/04

289/212/150

Ok group, In one week a new year will be upon us. I for one am extremely excited to make new year's resolutions. So, how about we each share 3 or 4 of our resolutions to put words to paper so to speak.

Here are mine!

1) Stay in Onederland ALL YEAR long for the first time in over 25 years.

2) Continue my relationship with all the AWESOME people on this site.

3) Find time for ME daily!

Julie Williams
Math Teacher
Western Math, Science, and Technology Magnet High School

Holiday Scramble

The following are traditional Christmas Songs we all know-but all the words have been changed to exactly the opposite.

Have fun figuring them out!

1. Noisy Day
2. Clarabell the Green-Tailed Cow
3. Down Under the Ground Floor
4. Ah, Go None of Us Skeptical
5. Scrooge Was Leaving From the Rural Area
6. Satan Work Us Sad Ladies
7. Dewy the Rain Woman
8. Grouchy Young Demon Scrooge
9. The Last Halloween
10. Restrain it From Drizzling, Restrain it From Drizzling, Restrain it From Drizzling

Julie Williams
Math Teacher
Western Math, Science, and Technology Magnet High School

I think this sounds awesome and so much protein!

Recipe:
Parmesan Chicken
Parmesan Chicken
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1 ½ inch pieces
1/4 cup diet Italian dressing
1 bag (1 pound) frozen bell pepper and onion strips, thawed, well drained
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Cook chicken in the dressing in a large non-stick skillet on medium high heat 6 minutes or until chicken is cooked through, stirring occasionally.
Add vegetables; cook and stir 5 minutes or until vegetables are crisp tender. Put mixture on a serving platter and sprinkle with cheese.
Makes 4 servings. Each serving:
210 calories; 7 grams carbohydrates; 29 grams protein
Note: If you cant find the frozen pepper combination, use 1 each fresh red, yellow and green peppers cut into strips plus 1 large onion, coarsely chopped.

Julie Williams
Math Teacher
Western Math, Science, and Technology Magnet High School

1. Answers
2. 1. Silent Night

* 2. Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer
* 3. Up On The House Top
* 4. Oh' Come All Ye Faithful
* 5. Santa Claus is Coming to Town
* 6. God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen
* 7. Frosty the Snowman
* 8. Jolly Old Saint Nicholas
* 9. The First Noel
* 10. Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow

Julie Williams
Math Teacher
Western Math, Science, and Technology Magnet High School

Recipe of the Week - Dicks World Famous Egg Nog

Ingredients

1/4 Cup Splenda, plus 2 Tbsp. Splenda
7 Eggs, whole
1/4 tsp. Salt
3 1/2 Cups Heavy Cream
1 1/2 Cups Half and Half
1 Cup Water
1/4 Teaspoon Nutmeg, ground
1/4 Cup DaVinci Sugar Free Cinnamon Syrup
2 tsp. Vanilla Extract, pure
1/2 tsp. Rum Flavoring, or Brandy Flavoring to taste
1/2 Cup Whipping Cream, whipped stiff with Splenda
Ground Nutmeg, for garnish

Cooking Instructions

Beat 1/4 Cup plus 2 Tbsp Splenda with eggs. Add salt, stir in cream and half and half. In a large saucepan cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture coats the back of a spoon and temperature reaches 170 degrees F. Remove from heat and allow to cool some. Add water, nutmeg, cinnamon syrup, vanilla and rum flavoring to cooked mixture and blend thoroughly. Chill at least 3 to 4 hours or overnight. Pour into punch bowl or cups. Dot with "islands" of whipped cream. Sprinkle with nutmeg as a garnish.

Note: Be sure you dont use too high of heat. It will cause a "scrambled egg" effect in your drink. Before serving strain through a very fine mesh seive.

Servings: 14
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Julie Williams
Math Teacher
Western Math, Science, and Technology Magnet High School

Thanks Jill, I am feeling better today...not 100% but close. I still don't want to eat BUT am forcing myself to drink my water and vitamins.
jyllyann1 <jyllyann@...

It's Jillll from sunny...yes I said sunny Illinois!
Glad to hear you that you are feeling better and at least you didn't
get the flu 'present' on Christmas.
Wow, 197 emails to read...I hope you'll read the one I sent as the
subject said...PLEASE READ....it's words to a song called Angels
Among Us! That's how I feel about this group. We are all angels
helping each other.
Now get 100% better and enjoy your holidays.
Hugs,
Jilllll

Hey groupies,

Anyone interested in getting a cool retreat like this together for us.....maybe in Nashville or Louisville. I was thinking maybe during the summer.......end of June or beginning of July. I am willing to put it together....find our guest speakers and plan the agenda. Let me know what you think. Hers costs $300 for the weekend.....I will see what I can do with costs. That cost is all inclusive. Here is the website. Go to the retreats section.

http://www.wlscenter.com/default.htm

Julie Williams
Math Teacher
Western Math, Science, and Technology Magnet High School

Woah! Is that a misplaced comma, or an acidental extra zero? Although with the was we've been chatting back and forth this month, I don't think I'd be very surprised if it turned out to be that many!

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYBODY!

Cathy, 12/20/04

Houston - 420/204/180

www.picturetrail.com/cathyspencer

www.obesityhelp.com/member/cathyspencer
jyllyann1 <jyllyann@...

Hello Ya'll....
Since Julie said she had 197 emails to read, if she'd answer 1/2 of
them : -))), we'll be over the TOP...1,0000 emails and it's not even
close to 1/1/2007.
Thanks to all of the ANGELS AMONG US!
Love to all,
Jillllllll

Cathy Spencer (12/20/04)
http://www.PictureTrail.com/cathyspencer
http://www.obesityhelp.com/member/cathyspencer/

Thanks for taking the pressure off of me as I will send your new
britches for sure next week. I want you to start 2007 off with the
right size jeans!!!
I appreciate your kind words...I only wish I had my sense of humor
when my 3 sons were growing up as I was a single parent for many
years...you get what I am talking about...S T R E S S to the M A X.
I sometimes feel sad that I couldn't be the Mom I wanted to be but at
least I can be a good Grammie to my little girls.
Isn't it amazing to look at the before and after pics of us....I just
didn't think I looked 'that puffy' BUT the good news is not now!
That's what keeps me going. I've been struggling lately as I feel
the stress of Jim's accident, the holidays, work but I AM WOMAN...AND
I AM ROARING : - ))))
Take care of yourself, here's a BIG SUNNY ILLINOIS HUG TO YOU!
Jillllll

Hello Ya'll....
Since Julie said she had 197 emails to read, if she'd answer 1/2 of
them : -))), we'll be over the TOP...1,0000 emails and it's not even
close to 1/1/2007.
Thanks to all of the ANGELS AMONG US!
Love to all,
Jillllllll

haha Jillll you're such a hoot! Those granddaughters are sure lucky!
This time of year is so crazy..so take your time, no rush. I
completely understand.... Though, I am glad you found the email. I
thought I was the one going crazy LOL! When I saw your message, I
thought, maybe I didn't email her and just imagined sending her an
email lol
Thank you so much for the compliment. Lately, the compliments keep
coming more and more often and I don't even know how to take them.
They certainly were very rare and far between in the past lol. I look
at my pictures just about every single day and I can't believe the
transformation that has taken place. I feel so fortunate to have had
this opportunity.
Well, at any rate.. I want to wish you the "bestest" of wishes this
holiday season. Spoil those granddaughters rotten! God bless!
Merry Christmas!
April

It's Jillll from sunny...yes I said sunny Illinois!
Glad to hear you that you are feeling better and at least you didn't
get the flu 'present' on Christmas.
Wow, 197 emails to read...I hope you'll read the one I sent as the
subject said...PLEASE READ....it's words to a song called Angels
Among Us! That's how I feel about this group. We are all angels
helping each other.
Now get 100% better and enjoy your holidays.
Hugs,
Jilllll

I wasn't on the computer yesterday at all as I had the flu.....what a yukky first experience after surgery that was......but when I got on today....197 e-mails to read. Took me a while but it was awesome to talk to and listen to MY FRIENDS!
Julie Williams
Math Teacher
Western Math, Science, and Technology Magnet High School

hi becky glad to meet you, we were told at cmc that there was not a support group here.

that is why we wwere talking about starting one but het great! I wish i had known about the meeting i would have went. where are you at in bg. maybe we all can get together after xmas!

I am in Bowling Green too, and tonight was the support meeting at the mall Health and Wellness Center, we had a good meeting. Becky

Kathleen (Kathy) Gardner

Dr.Olsen

230/118

4/20/04

Thanks Jill. I hope you are about over your exhaustion from your trip and going right to work when you got home. I hope Jim is feeling better also. Tell him that next year he better behave so that he can be healthy and come to the party also.

Have fun with your grandaughters. I bet they cant get away from you as easy now as they used to since you have lost all that weight.

I so enjoyed meeting you. A Merry Christmas and Healthier New Year to you also. Take Care.

Hugs from KY

Frankie Ashby

Dr Houston

341/168/170
jyllyann1 <jyllyann@...

You are doing soooooooo well with your weightloss. I am excited for
you. I did get your address and I'll be sending you the jeans. I
have my little grandaughters until Sat.
It was cold the other night and I put on a gray sweatshirt that I've
wore my 'other life'...I was shocked as it was soooooooo big. Jim
was laughing when I walked into the room. It was good to hear him
laugh as it's been a struggle these last couple of weeks after his
surgery.
Hi to Tim and I wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and a
Healthier New Year!
Jillllll

No problem....easy to talk about your passions and Teaching is definitely mine.
paperstocker <BamaBIT@...

Julie - I bet you're a wonderful teacher! Sounds like that's your passion. Our 17 yr old daughter who is a high school senior this year has just decided she wants to be a teacher! She had first thought pre-vet but her personality is definitely that of a teacher and we've always thought that (but never told her in order not to sway her). My younger sister is in her second year of being an elementary teacher after having taught high school for 12 yrs. And dh's aunt is a retired teacher of 30 something years. So we have a high respect for teachers. Thanks for playing along!

Bonita
Dr. Houston
7/11/06
296/196

I would consult with your surgeon Bonita. Low Potassium usually causes leg cramps. The

kind where you have to jump out of bed and put some pressure on the leg to stop the cramping.

Probably if you do have low potassium you will need a prescribed medicine. They make a

powder that can be mixed in water. Most of the sources of potassium we can't have now.

Wanda

Dr Olsen 08/16/04

No way! I had no clue there's a support group meeting here. Geeze...how did I miss that? When are the meeting times? Thanks for posting and letting me know.

Bonita

A P R I L....I will try to come out of the coma I've been in now for
weeks : - ))))
I found the email and I WILL mail your new britches....I have my
little grandaughters until Sat. but I will get them to you. I told
them I needed a couple of worker bees tomorrow so they both raised
their little hands in the air to volunteer to help me.
I looked at ALL of your pics and you have certainly ARRIVED!
Wowwwww, you are sooooooo pretty, April. What a difference!
Merry 'Christ'mas and here's to a HEALTHIER AND HAPPIER 2007.
Peace on Earth!
Jillllllll

I am in Bowling Green too, and tonight was the support meeting at the mall Health and Wellness Center, we had a good meeting. Becky

Awww... thanks so much you all! I truly felt like a million bucks!
Jill, I emailed you through this group a few days ago... you must
haven't gotten it. I'll give it another shot..I'm not gonna pass
those babies up!
Merry Christmas to you and yours!
April

That's about the third time that I have read that and you are right, every time you read it, no matter how many you cannot help but tear up and cry. [INLINE] Thanks for sharing it, I think it's a beautiful story.

Hugs,

Tammy
cordeliajane2003 <mjloyd@...

I'm sure some of you have read this but I just had to share it again
since we've been talking about RAK!
ONE OF THE BEST STORIES I'VE EVER HEARD!!!!!!
As she stood in front of her 5th grade class on the very first day of
school, she told the children an untruth. Like most teachers, she
looked at her students and said that she loved them all the same.
However, that was impossible, because there in the front row, slumped
in his seat, was a little boy named Teddy Stoddard.
Mrs. Thompson had watched Teddy the year before and noticed that he
did not play well with the other children, that his clothes were messy
and that he constantly needed a bath. In addition, Teddy could be
unpleasant. It got to the point where Mrs. Thompson would actually
take delight in marking his papers with a broad red pen, making bold
X's and then putting a big "F" at the top of his papers.
At the school where Mrs. Thompson taught, she was required to review
each child's past records and she put Teddy's off until last. However,
when she reviewed his file, she was in for a surprise.
Teddy's first grade teacher wrote, "Teddy is a bright child with a
ready laugh. He does his work neatly and has good manners... he is a
joy to be around.."
His second grade teacher wrote, "Teddy is an excellent student, well
liked by his classmates, but he is troubled because his mother has a
terminal illness and life at home must be a struggle."
His third grade teacher wrote, "His mother's death has been hard on
him. He tries to do his best, but his father doesn't show much
interest, and his home life will soon affect him if some steps aren't
taken."
Teddy's fourth grade teacher wrote, "Teddy is withdrawn and doesn't
show much interest in school. He doesn't have many friends and he
sometimes sleeps in class."
By now, Mrs. Thompson realized the problem and she was ashamed of
herself. She felt even worse when her students brought her Christmas
presents, wrapped in beautiful ribbons and bright paper, except for
Teddy's. His present was clumsily wrapped in the heavy, brown paper
that he got from a grocery bag. Mrs. Thompson took pains to open it in
the middle of the other presents. Some of the children started to
laugh when she found a rhinestone bracelet with some of the stones
missing, and a bottle that was one-quarter full of perfume But she
stifled the children's laughter when she exclaimed how pretty the
bracelet was, putting it on, and dabbing some of the perfume on he r
wrist. Teddy Stoddard stayed after school that day just long enough to
say, "Mrs. Thompson, today you smelled just like my Mom used to."
After the children left, she cried for at least an hour. On that very
day, she quit teaching reading, writing and arithmetic. Instead, she
began to teach children. Mrs. Thompson paid particular attention to
Teddy. As she worked with him, his mind seemed to come alive. The more
she encouraged him, the faster he responded. By the end of the year,
Teddy had become one of the smartest children in the class and,
despite her lie that she would love all the children the same, Teddy
became one of her "teacher's pets.."
A year later, she found a note under her door, from Teddy, telling her
that she was the best teacher he ever had in his whole life.
Six years went by before she got another note from Teddy. He then
wrote that he had finished high school, third in his class, and she
was still the best teacher he ever had in life.
Four years after that, she got another letter, saying that while
things had been tough at times, he'd stayed in school, had stuck with
it, and would soon graduate from college with the highest of honors.
He assured Mrs. Thompson that she was still the best and favorite
teacher he had ever had in his whole life.
Then four more years passed and yet another letter came. This time he
explained that after he got his bachelor's degree, he decided to go a
little further. The letter explained that she was still the best and
favorite teacher he ever had. But now his name was a little longer....
The letter was signed, Theodore F. Stoddard, MD.
The story does not end there. You see, there was yet another letter
that spring. Teddy said he had met this girl and was going to be
married. He explained that his father had died a couple of years ago
and he was wondering if Mrs. Thompson might agree to sit at the
wedding in the place that was usually reserved for the mother of the
groom. Of course, Mrs. Thompson did. And guess what? She wore that
bracelet, the one with several rhinestones missing. Moreover, she made
sure she was wearing the perfume that Teddy remembered his mother
wearing on their last Christmas together.
They hugged each other, and Dr. Stoddard whispered in Mrs. Thompson's
ear, "Thank you Mrs. Thompson for believing in me. Thank you so much
for making me feel important and showing me that I could make a
difference."
Mrs. Thompson, with tears in her eyes, whispered back. She said,
"Teddy, you have it all wrong. You were the one who taught me that I
could make a difference. I didn't know how to teach until I met you."
(For you that don't know, Teddy Stoddard is the Dr. at Iowa Methodist in
Des Moines that has the Stoddard Cancer Wing.)
Warm someone's heart today. . . pass this along. I love this story so
very much, I cry every time I read it. Just try to make a difference
in someone's life today? tomorrow? just "do it".
Random acts of kindness, I think they call it!
"Believe in Angels, then return the favor

Thank you so much for the update on Robert. He and Sandi will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers throughout all the recovery process. He really had a tough time didn't he. Bless his heart!!! Good thing that Sandi is with him and has been through it and knows what he's going through.

Hugs to them both and to you too, Cathy,

Tammy
CATHY SPENCER <cathyjds@...

Robert got to go home today!

After having a rough day yesterday, he had a good one today. They took out his drains, which stopped the worst of the pain. THEN the changed his pain meds so he stopped getting nausiated. He was able to drink, cough, and "take care of business," so Dr. O let him go home.

Sandi says to tell you all thanks for your thoughts, prayers, and well wishes. It will probably be a few days before she posts, but she'll be back with bells on soon!

Cathy, 12/20/04
Houston - 420/204/180
www.picturetrail.com/cathyspencer
www.obesityhelp.com/member/cathyspencer
Cathy Spencer (12/20/04)
http://www.PictureTrail.com/cathyspencer
http://www.obesityhelp.com/member/cathyspencer/

Hey Bonita,

Have you had your potassium checked lately? Just a thought. Sometimes if it's low from all of the "peeing" from all of the fluids, it can cause you to have leg cramps.

Janie

April,

You look so beautiful girl! Keep up the good work!

Merry Christmas,

Janie

I'm sure some of you have read this but I just had to share it again
since we've been talking about RAK!
ONE OF THE BEST STORIES I'VE EVER HEARD!!!!!!
As she stood in front of her 5th grade class on the very first day of
school, she told the children an untruth. Like most teachers, she
looked at her students and said that she loved them all the same.
However, that was impossible, because there in the front row, slumped
in his seat, was a little boy named Teddy Stoddard.
Mrs. Thompson had watched Teddy the year before and noticed that he
did not play well with the other children, that his clothes were messy
and that he constantly needed a bath. In addition, Teddy could be
unpleasant. It got to the point where Mrs. Thompson would actually
take delight in marking his papers with a broad red pen, making bold
X's and then putting a big "F" at the top of his papers.
At the school where Mrs. Thompson taught, she was required to review
each child's past records and she put Teddy's off until last. However,
when she reviewed his file, she was in for a surprise.
Teddy's first grade teacher wrote, "Teddy is a bright child with a
ready laugh. He does his work neatly and has good manners... he is a
joy to be around.."
His second grade teacher wrote, "Teddy is an excellent student, well
liked by his classmates, but he is troubled because his mother has a
terminal illness and life at home must be a struggle."
His third grade teacher wrote, "His mother's death has been hard on
him. He tries to do his best, but his father doesn't show much
interest, and his home life will soon affect him if some steps aren't
taken."
Teddy's fourth grade teacher wrote, "Teddy is withdrawn and doesn't
show much interest in school. He doesn't have many friends and he
sometimes sleeps in class."
By now, Mrs. Thompson realized the problem and she was ashamed of
herself. She felt even worse when her students brought her Christmas
presents, wrapped in beautiful ribbons and bright paper, except for
Teddy's. His present was clumsily wrapped in the heavy, brown paper
that he got from a grocery bag. Mrs. Thompson took pains to open it in
the middle of the other presents. Some of the children started to
laugh when she found a rhinestone bracelet with some of the stones
missing, and a bottle that was one-quarter full of perfume But she
stifled the children's laughter when she exclaimed how pretty the
bracelet was, putting it on, and dabbing some of the perfume on he r
wrist. Teddy Stoddard stayed after school that day just long enough to
say, "Mrs. Thompson, today you smelled just like my Mom used to."
After the children left, she cried for at least an hour. On that very
day, she quit teaching reading, writing and arithmetic. Instead, she
began to teach children. Mrs. Thompson paid particular attention to
Teddy. As she worked with him, his mind seemed to come alive. The more
she encouraged him, the faster he responded. By the end of the year,
Teddy had become one of the smartest children in the class and,
despite her lie that she would love all the children the same, Teddy
became one of her "teacher's pets.."
A year later, she found a note under her door, from Teddy, telling her
that she was the best teacher he ever had in his whole life.
Six years went by before she got another note from Teddy. He then
wrote that he had finished high school, third in his class, and she
was still the best teacher he ever had in life.
Four years after that, she got another letter, saying that while
things had been tough at times, he'd stayed in school, had stuck with
it, and would soon graduate from college with the highest of honors.
He assured Mrs. Thompson that she was still the best and favorite
teacher he had ever had in his whole life.
Then four more years passed and yet another letter came. This time he
explained that after he got his bachelor's degree, he decided to go a
little further. The letter explained that she was still the best and
favorite teacher he ever had. But now his name was a little longer....
The letter was signed, Theodore F. Stoddard, MD.
The story does not end there. You see, there was yet another letter
that spring. Teddy said he had met this girl and was going to be
married. He explained that his father had died a couple of years ago
and he was wondering if Mrs. Thompson might agree to sit at the
wedding in the place that was usually reserved for the mother of the
groom. Of course, Mrs. Thompson did. And guess what? She wore that
bracelet, the one with several rhinestones missing. Moreover, she made
sure she was wearing the perfume that Teddy remembered his mother
wearing on their last Christmas together.
They hugged each other, and Dr. Stoddard whispered in Mrs. Thompson's
ear, "Thank you Mrs. Thompson for believing in me. Thank you so much
for making me feel important and showing me that I could make a
difference."
Mrs. Thompson, with tears in her eyes, whispered back. She said,
"Teddy, you have it all wrong. You were the one who taught me that I
could make a difference. I didn't know how to teach until I met you."
(For you that don't know, Teddy Stoddard is the Dr. at Iowa Methodist in
Des Moines that has the Stoddard Cancer Wing.)
Warm someone's heart today. . . pass this along. I love this story so
very much, I cry every time I read it. Just try to make a difference
in someone's life today? tomorrow? just "do it".
Random acts of kindness, I think they call it!
"Believe in Angels, then return the favor

Robert got to go home today!

After having a rough day yesterday, he had a good one today. They took out his drains, which stopped the worst of the pain. THEN the changed his pain meds so he stopped getting nausiated. He was able to drink, cough, and "take care of business," so Dr. O let him go home.

Sandi says to tell you all thanks for your thoughts, prayers, and well wishes. It will probably be a few days before she posts, but she'll be back with bells on soon!

Cathy, 12/20/04

Houston - 420/204/180

www.picturetrail.com/cathyspencer

www.obesityhelp.com/member/cathyspencer

Cathy Spencer (12/20/04)
http://www.PictureTrail.com/cathyspencer
http://www.obesityhelp.com/member/cathyspencer/

And thank you for thanking her for thanking you..... [INLINE]
jyllyann1 <jyllyann@...

Thank you for thanking me : - ))))
It's an easy thing to do to keep track of them and it shows how much
we are communicating and keeping in touch with each other....showing
the love, right?!!!
Hugs to you,
Jillllll

Thank you for thanking me : - ))))
It's an easy thing to do to keep track of them and it shows how much
we are communicating and keeping in touch with each other....showing
the love, right?!!!
Hugs to you,
Jillllll

Bonita,

Mine do that too..some call it restless leg syndrome. I take a lot of fluid pill and have to take potassium too. Sometimes I think that I don't get enough and my legs hurt and jerk at night when I lay down. Hope this helps at least a little.

Hugs,

Tammy
paperstocker <BamaBIT@...

Okay, I know we've been having fun posting lately, etc. but I have a health related question to ask you all. For several nights now my legs have been hurting once I go to bed. Just wondering if any of you all have experienced this and what it might be. I'm aware of the discomfort several times throughout the night. Comments? I am getting all my supplements/protein in every day and although I don't measure my water, I'm pretty sure I'm doing that too.
Bonita/Dr. Houston
7/11/06
296/196

Bonita...when you say hurting is it an ache or a pain? If your potassium is low you can get

leg cramps.

Wanda

Hi Bonita,

Sometimes it does turn pink but that is not a good thing. Something has gone wrong! The pink story is I got a little teasing about going into Womens Hospital and getting a pink gown when I had my surgery. We had a lot of fun with that. I did get a blue gown though! :-)

Steve
Dr. Houston
10/25/06
353/298
[INLINE]
But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. Isaiah 40:31

When that happens to me, I elevate my legs on a big pillow. For me, it's when I've been on my feet for waaaaay too long.

Cathy, 12/20/04

Houston - 420/204/180

www.picturetrail.com/cathyspencer

www.obesityhelp.com/member/cathyspencer
paperstocker <BamaBIT@...

Okay, I know we've been having fun posting lately, etc. but I have a health related question to ask you all. For several nights now my legs have been hurting once I go to bed. Just wondering if any of you all have experienced this and what it might be. I'm aware of the discomfort several times throughout the night. Comments? I am getting all my supplements/protein in every day and although I don't measure my water, I'm pretty sure I'm doing that too.
Bonita/Dr. Houston
7/11/06
296/196

Cathy Spencer (12/20/04)
http://www.PictureTrail.com/cathyspencer
http://www.obesityhelp.com/member/cathyspencer/

I just now realized that!! Thats so neat. I actually stole the one
of me and you and put it in my profile so I would have it... hehe
now I have TWO pictures of me and you in my profile lol

Okay, I know we've been having fun posting lately, etc. but I have a health related question to ask you all. For several nights now my legs have been hurting once I go to bed. Just wondering if any of you all have experienced this and what it might be. I'm aware of the discomfort several times throughout the night. Comments? I am getting all my supplements/protein in every day and although I don't measure my water, I'm pretty sure I'm doing that too.

Bonita/Dr. Houston

7/11/06

296/196

Hey guys, guess what I just found out? If you are my OH "friend" and I tag one of my photos that you're in it, it automatically shows up on your profile! Isn't that cool?

SO--if I have a pic of you, make sure you add me as your friend and you will have the pic of you from the party on your page!!!

Cathy, 12/20/04

Houston - 420/204/180

www.picturetrail.com/cathyspencer

www.obesityhelp.com/member/cathyspencer

Cathy Spencer (12/20/04)
http://www.PictureTrail.com/cathyspencer
http://www.obesityhelp.com/member/cathyspencer/

I went to visit Robert and Sandi at the hospital yesterday afternoon. He'd had a VERY hard day. Lot's of pain... pain meds making him nausiated, etc. having an unusually difficult time drinking.

I called today.... he's doing better. They took out both drains and that helped the pain tremendously. They changed his pain meds and that really helped. The doc said that if he can drink enough by 3:00, Robert can go home today.

Sandi asks for continued prayers that Robert can drink enough to go home. Both are in good spirits and appreciate all the love and prayers!

Cathy, 12/20/04

Houston - 420/204/180

www.picturetrail.com/cathyspencer

www.obesityhelp.com/member/cathyspencer

Cathy Spencer (12/20/04)
http://www.PictureTrail.com/cathyspencer
http://www.obesityhelp.com/member/cathyspencer/

I was wondering about that. And there's still 10 more days to this month... we'll pass 1000 for sure!

Cathy, 12/20/04

Houston - 420/204/180

www.picturetrail.com/cathyspencer

www.obesityhelp.com/member/cathyspencer

jyllyann1 <jyllyann@...

We are really posting enthusiasts! We'll surpass 1,000 for this
month....AMAZING...It shows that we truly care and encourage each other!
Jilllllllllll

Cathy Spencer (12/20/04)
http://www.PictureTrail.com/cathyspencer
http://www.obesityhelp.com/member/cathyspencer/

And once again, reading e-mails has caused me to snort sugar free tea all over my monitor!

You guys are too funny.

Cathy, 12/20/04

Houston - 420/204/180

www.picturetrail.com/cathyspencer

www.obesityhelp.com/member/cathyspencer
Linda T <Lydat@...

I was going to do my measurement this morning but I have a question.
When doing the bust measurement where do you measure? How do you
measure? Do you hold the girls up and have someone measure? Measure
down around the mid section? Put on that good support bra? The girls
are beginning to look like deflated balloons. I am down to a 38 long!
Linda T
210/185/130
Dr Houston

Cathy Spencer (12/20/04)
http://www.PictureTrail.com/cathyspencer
http://www.obesityhelp.com/member/cathyspencer/

We are really posting enthusiasts! We'll surpass 1,000 for this
month....AMAZING...It shows that we truly care and encourage each other!
Jilllllllllll

You are doing soooooooo well with your weightloss. I am excited for
you. I did get your address and I'll be sending you the jeans. I
have my little grandaughters until Sat.
It was cold the other night and I put on a gray sweatshirt that I've
wore my 'other life'...I was shocked as it was soooooooo big. Jim
was laughing when I walked into the room. It was good to hear him
laugh as it's been a struggle these last couple of weeks after his
surgery.
Hi to Tim and I wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and a
Healthier New Year!
Jillllll

Bonita,

I THINK it was before you joined us (?) but we teased Steve that the color coded gowns they put on us at Centennial were pink. Being a guy, he wasn't sure what he thought of that!

Cathy, 12/20/04

Houston

420/204/180

www.picturetrail.com/cathyspencer

www.obesityhelp.com/member/cathyspencer
paperstocker <BamaBIT@...

Thanks for playing along Steve. Sounds like a very interesting job keeping things all together! By the way, do you all make any "Pink" glue? Seems Jill and Cathy S. are "stuck" on that color for some reason! LOL!!!
Bonita
Dr. Houston
7/11/06
296/196

Cathy Spencer (12/20/04)
http://www.PictureTrail.com/cathyspencer
http://www.obesityhelp.com/member/cathyspencer/

I was going to do my measurement this morning but I have a question.
When doing the bust measurement where do you measure? How do you
measure? Do you hold the girls up and have someone measure? Measure
down around the mid section? Put on that good support bra? The girls
are beginning to look like deflated balloons. I am down to a 38 long!
Linda T
210/185/130
Dr Houston

Yes all of the things you listed are correct. As far as the support group goes we will not get it started until probably march. I live on hanover street, and moved here from just outside paducah. maybe after the holidays we can get together! that would be great!!!! my daughter is having the surgery on jan 10 and we are going on a vavcation in feb. for our anniversary so that is why i cannot start the group before that. hubby has had surgery so he will be involved too! where at are you in bg? i'm so glad to know someone from here has had it done too!

well gottago finish xmas shopping will write more later
paperstocker <BamaBIT@...

Oh., I'm thrilled to know that another Bowling Green person is now on the board. (That's where I live!!!) I know you