absent lately

Hi all, I was finally able to log in today and had received a few messages about my invisibility lately.  Things have been, well, hectic I guess.  LOL.  The first big problem is that my computer has decided to abandon me at the worst time possible.  My internal wireless in my notebook is dead so my internet access has been limited. I've added some progress pictures from August 23, 2007-December 1, 2007 32.6 pounds lost 27.25 inches lost in hips, abdomen, waist and chest All right.  I am hoping to catch up on email this week so anyone waiting on me, please forgive my delay in reply.  Now on to an update... The last couple of weeks have been challenging.  My husband and I got married 2 years ago this past Monday.  Normally, this is a great celebration but I work at being positive as much as I can.  We got married and our lives (sort of) went down the toilet, LOL-lost our jobs, car, house, etc. and now live with my folks.  Well, the week before Thanksgiving the ax came down at my husband's company and they were going to "let him go".  All of this reflection has caused me to have to work at maintaining a positive outlook and being grateful for the good in our lives.  I'm getting on to the good stuff now... Since I started August 23rd, 2007, I've lost 32.6 pounds and 27.25 inches.  All this has been done on a non starvation, healthy diet and generous exercise.  I've not been able to do my planned cardio (dvds) Monday-Friday as I would like but I have been doing them at least 3x/week and also walking the dogs and participating in many other physical activities. It's been very stressful and I still have to remind myself that eating does not solve my problems or fill my emotions, although I will admit it is getting better.  Keep in mind that I've lost (A LOT) of weight 3 times prior and, even though I kept it off, I don't think I really dealt with my emotions the way I needed to.  It can be very subtle sometimes, but I am starting to see it even more now. My goal for Thanksgiving time was to maintain (not gain).  I was pleased to find out that after Thanksgiving and our wedding anniversary I had lost 1.4 pounds.  It may not seem like a lot but it sounded great to me.  All I wanted was to see a number that was not bigger than the previous weight, LOL. I try not to get too far ahead of myself any more.  I really don't think about being a size * as much any more.  I look forward to participating in activities that I haven't even considered.  The other day my dad and I went to do some Christmas shopping and there was a nifty work chair.  I tried it out.  4 months ago I probably would not have attempted to sit on something like that in public for fear of breaking it or not being able to get up.  I've got a long way to go but I have made progress and that is what I try to focus on-progress.   14 weeks ago I started and I'm glad I gave it a shot.

Lot going on for you.  It's a difficult time for many--lots of downsizing creating other challenges. Just remember attitude is a choice.  You don't have to be happy when facing your challenges, but you can choose to ride them like a wave until they take you to shore.

Oh gosh!  Challenges are opportunities.  I must be aware of this to have made it as far as I have, LOL.  It's human to feel for oneself at times, that is normal.  It's not how many times we fall, but how many times we get up. Thanks for the pep talk though!!

Way to do it, Beth. Congrats!

You're looking great!!! I can't get to your profile any more but just from your avatar!!!  Woweee!  Way to go!

Beth, with all the bad going on, you're doing awesome, and keep that in your mind at all times.  I'm proud!! :)

Thanks so much for your encouragement.  I see you're struggling a bit right now.  Believe me, I understand the impatience.  Right now I am just focusing on little things and getting through the holidays.  As long as we keep working towards the right direction.  That is what's important.  Nobody can really say anything that makes it better though.  I know you'll work through it in time.  You're a strong chick and have come so far already. Now go give yourself a pat on the back for me!

I was just thinking about you last night!  Was wondering what has happened to you.  Glad you were able to get back on.  You sound like your still going strong.  Hang in there, your doing great! 

Wow!!! You're doing awesome.  It does take time and patience and I just need to remember that. Thanks for the support too!!!

I've missed you around here! Hey girl... things have come down on you guys pretty hard... it sounds like you are really doing GREAT. Not only with your WL (especially during the holidays!) but also with your attitude... which I think is partly what has helped keep you going. When I hit those rough spots in the road... I always refer/recite to myself: "This too, shall pass".  And it will.  Though at the time- it often feels like it will NEVER pass.... there will be the day that you can look back and see it as "back then..." Anyhow- you are doing (and looking!) VERY AWESOME!!!!  Keep up the FANTASTIC work!!!!