General Discussion Thread - chat here daily

I'm back. My father passed away 10 days ago and he was in the hospital for 6 weeks so that's where I've been. I promised him I'd live a cleaner life though so I've come crawling back to spark.

This thread has become too lengthy, so we will retire it and start a General Discussion Thread II. Please make your posts there instead of here. Thank you!

This seems to be a relaxed kind of Friday. No errands, the major thing I need to get done is some laundry.

I am glad about the dog situation.

Everyone have a blessed day. Enjoy yourself.

My day is pretty relaxed so far. I am being very glad that a little Yorkie dog is being allowed to stay with his owner in a retirement center. Evidently at first the doggie was upset about being in a strange place and barked excessively, so they were thinking it wouldn't work out, but then he settled down and will be allowed to stay!

NellieC that is great.

I hope everyone is having a good day.

My oldest son who has been looking for a job for quite a while, now has one lined up for March!

Hope all is well with everyone. Have a good day.

W. WA state has had some cold, but in general, it has been somewhat warmer than usual here. We are getting rain and temperatures in the daytime of 40s to 50s.

Good morning team. The weather in Baltimore has been wonderful - 50s, 60s and sometimes almost 70s for the beginning of Feburary. Now it is cold, and I mean cold. I do not like cold weather, so my mind says, "do not go out." However, I did an SP exercise video this morning. It has been awhile since I did one. I did not last the entire time, but I did something. I still may go to Planet Fitness later on today.

I hope everyone is having a good day/night. Be blessed.

I'm getting ready to go with my oldest son to a church dinner this evening to support our youth group to go to Mexico to build a house for a poor family. The pastor said it is a roast beef dinner.

Hi NellieC, you really do look good. I am so proud of you. I know if I keep pushing myself and stay the course, I will be a winner. I do seem to be carrying on a conversation all by myself. I will keep posting and hope someone, like yourself, will want to carry on a conversation. Today has been going well for me. The eating could be better, but all in all, I am blessed. The weather in Baltimore is windy and cold. I will be so grateful when Spring starts because my entire thinking about exercising and getting healthy is better.

I am checking in and I hope everyone is having a great day/night.

Love you all and be blessed.

Carrie, you do seem to be carrying the burden of talking here.

I think the rest of us are sorta sleepy from the cool weather and possibly gloomy skies. However, I like that kind of weather in preference to hot weather!

Where are the daily chats for this team. I am there all by myself. I would like to have someone to interact with.

However, my day is going good and I hope you all are having good days.

Be blessed. I hope to see someone here chatting other than myself.

Good afternoon team. I hope everyone had a good weekend. Did you all watch the superbowl? It was good, what I saw of it.

This morning I went to water aerobics but the class was cancelled because of water issues. The water was too cold. I came home and that was the bulk of my day, doing absolutely nothing.

However, this will not last long. Tomorrow I will be at the gym and my eating will be better.

Well, that's where I am right now.

So everyone have a great day/night. Love you all.

Good morning everyone. I just find it so blessed to have found this site and this team. I love any discussion about God, who is always awesome and never fails.

Today has been a good day so far. I have gone to the gym and so far my breakfast was nutritional and healthy. The weather here in Baltimore has been so nice, (thanking God for that because of the homeless) but now it is going to get cold.

I am very pleased with myself because I have not given up and I have a different mind-set this time around. I have said that before, but this time, I will continue on this journey to see what the end result will be.

So I want everyone to have a blessed and safe day. Be blessed. Love you all.

All I can say is this is my favorite team. I love this team I love the discussions. Of course anytime you get on the subject of God the conversations will always be

"Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still;
teach the righteous and they will add to their learning." — Proverbs 9:9

Edited by: LOVEABLEBRE at: 2/3/2012 (10:18)

I went to Bible Study this morning. Part of the time, the pastor was explaining to one lady about some of the modern technical devices and social sites (ipod, ipad, Facebook, Twitter, etc.)

Hey team, where is everyone.

Today was a good day. I am still working on the water thing.

Food and exercise goals met for today.

Good evening team. Today was a good day. I met my eating and exercise goals.

Just blessed.

Everyone have a good night/day which ever side of the world you are on.

Be blessed. Love you all.

NellieC, I am sorry about your dog - it is definitely losing a member of the family!

Thanks for the welcome backs. NellieC sorry about your loss.

I am glad to be back. I have to work on not getting bored with the site and I need to work it more.

Thanks again.

Last Friday, my little service dog Mercy passed away from kidney disease. I am missing her terribly! Sunday was pretty emotional for me since my church family kept hugging me.

Roslyn, welcome back -

It's been a quiet weekend here - got some things done - Joseph (my son) attended a cast party with his friends from the Siena Players yesterday afternoon -

Now it is back to work!

back and on maintaining. Any secrets for your success to share? -- Lou

Hi everyone. This is Roslyn in Baltimore. I am coming back home to this team. I have really missed you all. While I was away, my weight has stayed about the same. I have not gained anything really significant, just with 2 to 5 pounds.

Anyway, I am glad to be back on SP.

I hope everyone is alright. Loving you all still.

I know I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me and this healthy eating goal is one of them.

I agree with no TV during dinner - definitely a great idea

I drove on snow and ice for 16 years and remember well, but not fondly, those 180s.People had snow chains put on their car's tires and then manufacturers came out with studded tires to help grip the road. Both were illegal when the roads were dry because they tore up the asphalt. Stay safe if you are in a place with snow an ice.

We never had the TV on during dinner. That was a time to talk about our days, at work for Dad, at home for Mom and at school for my sister and me. I miss those times. -- Lou

Hey there from NE Philly - slightly better weather today - no snow - but still cold - tomorrow my son and I will go with a group from our church to the March for Life in Washington DC - we'll get our exercise in, at least!

Well I did not have a good drive into work this morning. I ended up doing a 180 at an intersection. Praise the Lord, everyone behind me was going very slowly as well and at appropriate and safe distances so everything was fine. But spinning out and stopping facing oncoming traffic? Not something I want to do again.

I am doing very well with water. Food isn't horrible, but I'm snacking too much. I managed to get a lot of laundry and cleaning done last night instead of watching t.v. and very carefully read 2 chapters of John last night as well.

Remember back in the 70's and 80's when the t.v. got turned on around 8? Been thinking about that a lot lately. My t.v. is on if I'm at home and that's just not good on sooo many levels. I'm looking to make changes with the end game being the t.v. goes on at 8 and unless it's a long program such as American Idol or Biggest Loser, it goes off at 9. Last night I didn't turn the t.v. on until dinner was ready and then turned it off after to do some housework and my reading. Then I brought about 4 loads of clean laundry into my bedroom and my daughter and I folded and put it all away while watching some t.v. in there. Then I turned it back off until my shows started at 8. Small steps, looking forward to seeing the changes.

After growing up and spending 30 years in the northern snow and ice I may be entitled to rub it in a bit. Even though I despise Florida's summer humidity, I raked leaves yesterday. Guess there are some trade offs, right? Stay warm and safe. -- Lou

Edited by: IUHRYTR at: 1/19/2012 (22:02)

Hey there everyone and happy Wednesday night - we have cold, wintry weather here in the Philly area - looking forward to next week when the temps are back in the 50s! LOL - working on staying on plan with my eating and activity!

Felicia
2 Timothy 1:7-10

Hi, Crystal, today seems to be a major snow day where I am. I am doing my animal chores, which today includes some snow shoveling so my doggies can actually figure out where to go. (They are both small: one is a little Yorkie, and one is a Chihuahua.) Later, I will do a strength video. Usually I would have gone to Bible Study today, but it was cancelled since the roads are not that safe at present.

I am doing well with eating moderately.

Good morning everyone! I managed to get my 8 waters in yesterday. Had a smaller breakfast this morning and aiming to not snack like I did yesterday. I didn't even bother weighing myself this morning. I snacked too much and had too big a serving of scalloped potatoes last night so I knew I'd be up. Hoping to make up for that today.

How is everyone else doing?

Thank you Lou, my name is Crystal. I got your sparkmail too and changed my background lol. Been meaning to do that for a couple of months actually, just never got around to it.

I do try to distract myself with other things and often I am successful. I love to read so if I think to I'll grab my Kobo or whatever book I'm reading and start reading. Once I pick up I'm thoroughly distracted from food. I also try listening to music, holding a cat, doing some menial chore and often I am successful. I tend to buy junk food on the way home at night. I've cut wayyy back on that too. I used to buy a large bag of chips or snack and eat that at night. Now, if I buy one,it's a single serving bag, at least. I'm not perfect, but it's something.

And logically, I do know that it's not helping things, only hurting, but it's been a tried and true method of dealing with stress and feelings for decades. It's going to take time to replace my old habits with new, healthy ones. All I can do is put one foot forward and never give up. I have to give myself credit for that. I never give up on myself. I may be lazy and not bother with "dieting" for a while, but every single day I wake up with the full intention of changing today.

Thanks for your support.

Edited by: JESUS.SAVED.ME at: 1/17/2012 (17:26)

Dear JESUS.SAVED.ME. I'm sorry but I don't know your first name. It has to be sad to learn of your dad's health problems. Mine, too, had cancer, as did my mother, older sister and a grandfather. One thing to realize is that you eating does not change his situation, it only adds unneeded calories and may make you feel guilty afterwards for eating when you weren't hungry.
I suggest when you feel upset or sad or angry with him for not caring for himself that instead of eating you take a walk, do your yoga or other exercise, clean something in the house, anything to drive your focus away from food. Realize that however many calories you consume does not change his health at all but is harming you. Praying the doctors may help him and that you gain the strength to deal with this in another, more positive way. -- Lou

Argh! I typed out a response and then my keyboard batteries died at home.

We're snowed in here...about 2 feet which is a lot here. Managed to make it into work today though, thank goodness. Had our first snowfall Sunday morning but managed to get to church fine. I've been feeling detached from my church family but I think it's me. Wondering if God is telling me something and if I'm ready to hear it.

Got bad news about my dad Friday night. He went in to see one of his specialists (he has cancer) and he was concerned about my dads shortness of breath. It's been an issue for a few weeks, but my dad recently started smoking again, despite having lung cancer, asbestosis and emphysema. We all attributed the shortness of breath to those things. The dr. heard it and sent him down for an emergency ct scan. They found more cancer in a pulmonary artery leading to my dads lung. Oxygen isn't getting in or out effectively. They scheduled him for chemo to start immediately, yesterday. We were worried about all the snow but my brother drove in with his 4X4 and took my dad to his chemo. The clinic opened late due to the snow but at least he got the treatment.

These are some of the things that weigh on me that make food such a reliable...distraction. When I'm eating, I don't worry about my dad, my mom, our business, money or what we'll do. It's a break for my mind and my heart.

But..I did some yoga last night with my Wii Fit Plus disc and the balance board. It was tough boy. And I couldn't hold the pose properly because I can't bend that way yet, but I bent as far as I could and I kept my posture correct. It felt good to do something. My legs have been sore and I wonder if it's atrophy. Not sure if that's the right word but when I don't use my muscles they start to hurt.

Working away at my water which is my #1 goal right now. I'm on #4 now and as long as I keep taking a few sips each new song, I'll see my 8 today. How's everyone else doing?

I will be taking a SparkBreak for the next 30 days or so. If you need me, SparkMail me or ask one of the other team leaders for my phone numbers. I've given them permission to give them to any of you who ask. You'll be in my prayers while I'm away and I covet yours.

Much love.

*hugs*

Thanks for the birthday goodie!!!

Today was a beautiful Sunday. This afternoon it actually was warm and I got to go out for a drive with my fiance and do some walking and birdwatching. I am hoping that tomorrow we have another pretty afternoon. We are blessed to have this opportunity.

Thankful that you avoided the snow NellieC

Today my son and I did our grocery shopping since we heard that snow was expected. Right as we were leaving the store, the snow started, so we got home safely with no slipping and sliding.

How is everyone doing this Saturday? I'm working on my water and I've been cleaning up a storm. Living room is almost cleaned up, laundry is cycling, shopping is done.

We got an unexpected dumping of snow last night. Hoping it's gone soon, my daughter has a soccer game in the morning and if the field is too wet they tend to cancel the games.

While my daughter was at her life group last night I had a nice long chat with my Pastor. Was good to check in, and get a lot of things off my chest.

Have a good day all!

Thanks for the warm welcome everyone! You know, I hadn't really considered the bike. It's not my favorite form of exercise, to be sure, but it's something, right? I have an issue with my sciatic right now that would most definitely be made worse by biking right now and I hurt my knee yesterday. But those things should be ok in a few days or so so maybe I'll do just that....get to the gym for a bike. Once I lose 10-15 lbs my swimsuit will fit again and I can get into the pool.

I didn't do much besides make dinner last night once I got home. I did get my daughters laundry all folded and did another load this morning. I just watched the Peoples Choice awards last night lol. I'll do better tonight. Even being more active by cleaning is better than nothing.

Have a good day everyone!

I was able to get a very inexpensive under-the-desk cycle that let's me exercise without weight bearing. Maybe that would work for you!

It's nice meeting you. How's your foot? Do you have access to a stationary bike that would let you do your cardio without putting pressure on your feet? Or a pool? I don't have either but am able to use my treadmill. I have it in the living room so I can watch movies while I walk. For me, it's my back, so I have to take it slow, but any is better than nothing I suppose. We're here to encourage and support your efforts so let us know of your successes and of any problems we might help with. -- Lou

Edited by: IUHRYTR at: 1/11/2012 (21:18)

Hi everyone. I'm new. Been on Spark for a few years, but haven't made any progress except to grow in size.

I was doing very well in the summer and fall, got into running and lost 12 lbs. I was on a roll. Then I started having bad pain in my right foot that was later diagnosed as a heel spur as well as plantar fasciitis. Just the one foot, but my dr. has said nothing weight bearing until I get my custom orthotics which everyone is sure will help get me back on my feet.

My big downfall is junk food. I'm addicted. I managed to mostly kick the soda habit at least. 5 years ago I would drink about 6 cans of Pepsi a day. Now I just drink club soda to satisfy my craving for bubbles.

Looking forward to getting to know you all :)

Good Sunday afternoon everyone from rainny Trinidad,

I only managed three days of exercising last week but I MUST do better this week.

My daughter said that I'm looking slimmer especially when I wore my jeans this morning.I don't wear jeans very often and it used to be close fitting but isn't as much now so something is slowly but surely happening!!!

Babysat the grand daughters last night and it was so much fun for us three,but it was great to be back home and it was great to hear DH say how much he missed me :) so love the one you're with!

Stay blessed everyone!
Roz.

It is nice reading of so much progress and of such positive attitudes. Stay focused and determined, one day and one pound at a time. -- Lou

You can add me as a friend if you like I am pretty new also.

Hi all, I am new to SP, I joined this group because I am a Christian Woman and really need the help and support of other Christians.

Thank you for responding. I really appreciate your answer.

Some people blog about weekly goals having to do with exercise or what they eat or drink. Other people blog about things in their lives like operations or a family member cancer. Your blog is what you make it. What ever you feel is what you want to talk about is fine.

Hi i am new to this group and was wondering does blogging help? I want to do it but don't knowwhat to do or say.

Hello everyone. My name is Teresa and I have been a member of SP for the past 3 years. I have been away for quite a while and it may seem like I'm jumping on the "it's January 1, this is my new commitment to weight loss" band wagon but . . . I'm not. I have been going to Weight Watchers since 9/12 and have lost 31 pounds. The holidays were rough but I made it through in one piece and am ready to continue making that piece smaller. I haven't been on SP while attending WW (don't know why) until the last week or so. A local SP friend who I haven't spoken to in a while concacted me last week asking for support & friendship. So . . . here I am, ready to give & receive support & encouragement. May we all be blessed this new year!!! Teresa

omg!!!!!!!!!
you guys sure rock!!!!!!
you have been so nice to me
thank you for all the goodie, comments, you all far too kind.
am wishing all of you a happy new year
remember jesus gave us another chance to see the coming year, we should also give all those who have hurt us, the disappointments we might have had, betrayals......and so on, we should give them a second chance, give that dream a second chance, that career a second chance....etc. we are all redeemed in jesus name
.....oh my name is mairo

have a awsome day everyone

It sounds doable! Of course, some weeks you may drop more and some less.

I weighed in this morning and was up from last week, but am still on target for my goal of five pounds total by Jan. 27. I have 3.3 to go in 44 days (6.25 weeks), so about .52# per week to go. I can do this!

@BAHAMIANJENNI -

Good morning Team, this is Jennifer from the Bahamas, how's everyone doing? I am GREAT!!! I am steadily losing weight both physically and emotionally/spiritually, and I am excited about these positive changes in my life.

I am reading my Bible and praying daily (sometimes morning and evening);
I am drinking my 8 plus glasses of water ;
I am exercising with my Body Gospel dvds every morning except Sundays;
I have drastically decreased my food intake (still eating some favs of mine but portions size are half and in some instances a quarter of my usual amount); and
I am actually getting in my eight hours of sleep most nights
YIPPIE

I am active in my Church (helping in the prayer ministry and teaching Bible Study). I am still having 'challenges' at work, but I am trying to keep the right attitude and remain grateful to be employed). I am still single (not even dating anyone) but I am no longer consumed by feeling inadequate and incomplete because I am unmarried.

I am in the process or writing two inspirational books and I feel alive and hopeful as if my goals are realistic and attainable - I am still rocking my size 20s and I am inching towards the 18s. So team, please keep me in your thoughts and prayers, as I continue on this Sparkilicious journey.

LET'S GO TEAM - WE CAN DO IT!!!!

Spending more time with my Father.

What have you done lately to nurture yourself, enhance your creativity and
honor your soul? - I haven't done it yet, but Tuesday of next weeks is the beginning of a six month writing sabbatical. That out to handle all three of the items listed in the initial question.

"What have you done lately to nurture yourself, enhance your creativity and
honor your soul?"

For me, the first and last of the three are being done in therapy.

Creativity wants to stall, but I am not letting it! I am putting up a fight, and writing, singing, and reading new things. I am also doing some artistic crochet, something I have not done in a while.

What have you done lately to nurture yourself, enhance your creativity and
honor your soul?

So tired, I will post tomorrow. Going to sleep now.

@IUHRYTR - Amen!!!

Woke up early with back pain but am grateful I can still move around. Let's enjoy all the blessings, large and small, we receive this weekend. -- Lou

Good morning , wishing everyone a Blesses weekend .

Morning, all. Could not sleep.

Lou, just thought I would let you know, a clogged up mind is a sign of greatness--or insanity. You pick