Thank You for Sharing Ham...

Hi Family,

As I read Ham's Sunday lesson I can not help to be reminded of a few of my own self help groups of the past.
I 1986 following a Christmas at Disneyworld, I made a major commitment that come January 1987 I would commit myself to find the money , investing in help for ME. I joined Weight Loss Clinic with a vow to myself to lose 60 lbs. by my 40th birthday in June. It meant saying no thank you a lot, sometimes at work the cake was waved in front of my face, I stuck to my guns NO was the answer. I stayed strong and drank my lemon juice faithfully for 6 months. I got down to 135 lbs. by my birthday, then I had cake.
I had changed, the word NO became a big part of my vocabulary especially pertaining to food and alcohol. People see you in a different light, no matter I had energy, was proud of my new body, so much so that we installed a hot tub to soak that new body, show it off.
So I quess now that we're in that mode again we need to decide why are we doing this anyways. For me personally, now that I am officially recognized as a senior (early pension) I need to remain strong and healthy, so as to enjoy all these little kiddies in our famillies. Hard to keep up with all that excess weight! I know of what I speak.
Four years ago I found myself once again trying to find help to lose the weight. After a few months of Weight Watchers I chose to go the less costly route Over Eaters Anonymous which met out of a church in Burlington. It was not a religious group simply people who all had the same problem, we love food too much. I believe this small group really connected with each other,we each brought something to the table to share. We brought compassion , understanding and respect for each other, finding answers to the WHY's. Many WHY's had never been recognized by many, we were each others sounding boards, no judgements.
There were no scales no weigh ins that was up to you in private. For myself I did lose 10 lbs. and kept it off however once real life through a few more rough shots thrown in my direction, I deviated from the group.
Perhaps I'll try and find such a group here in St.Catharines to help me continue my quest to lose steadily and healthily. We helped each other, as I'm sure is the case with Ham's group too.
Also tried Curves 3 years ago that was fun dancing on 18 pieces of equipment for 1 min. each. That was variety workout. Fun!
There are still disappointments in life, we can not change all things sometimes, so it is better to just accept.Life just isn't perfect sometimes.Wouldn't it be boring if it were?
All in all I'm getting on the mend, chosing to start walking more, more like shuffling at times, continue to eat healthy, and if I slip, get back on my horse the next day. The horse that says NO THANKS. Someday I'll be on a pony again, but not in the very near future, it will take time!

Enjoy your weeks, an don't be too hard on yourselves. See you all soon!
Love Birgie

Hi Folks;

Well I had my Sunday morning chat with Omi and I have been checking the blog. So ladies, it seems that it is more difficult to drive towards the end game. Yes indeed, our health. Now I have my secret weapon; my friend Harvey on Sunday mornings.

So why is that; I'm a smart guy so I should be able to figure out anything; afterall I charge my clients lots of money to figure out their issues. If only it was that simple. Yes I did lose a pound this week and it is slow but steady, but in that period, I had a steak, some french fries (only a few); Sue's left over chicken wings (a very bad consideration); a chocolate bar and some chocolate ice cream. I won't talk about wine, scotch and martinis which would absolutely accelerate weight loss, but I'm not ready!

So I empathize with all of you who are struggling; it is our destiny!

Harvey is a cool guy; he says we should eat to live and not live to eat. Hmmmm. His talk was about want and willing today. We all want to do something-want to travel to Europe; want to win a lottery; want to lose weight! But are we willing. Willing it is commitment to the effort-no excuses! Ok we all fall off the wagon but do we get back at it? This is a matter of life choices. When people ask a Brooker man, "would you like another helping or how about a piece of chocolate cake," the answer is simple. "No thank you, I don't do that anymore." It is that simple or perhaps that difficult.

Everything that I am doing is simply eating healthy and knowing that I can't enjoy some things that I have in the past. I won't go to McDonald's except if I have to pee-no money from me. I really don't care how they dress it all up-they are in the carb. business!

No cookies or sweets for me-fortunately this has been very easy as Sue never has dessert.

So troopers, keep healthy and enjoy Ontario fresh produce. I hope we get everyone together soon.

Love

Ham

Posted by Jess

Ahhhh Ang, relxation time....that is SO good for you! You really really not only deserve it, but probably need it. When your career is high stress, it is imperitive to recollect and get back to YOU time. I have not been clubbing, or to bars or anything now for a long time, and in part d/t my stressful work life and working 12 hour shifts as I have no mood for such things. I would prefer to veg, or do simple things like play in the park, walk, or go camping etc. You know what is a fun idea? Maybe you and Jenny could catch a couple shows at the drive in? I know that is on my list of things to do this summer! I want to see Knocked up, Harry Potter and Transformers, and often the drive in does them in clusters. Anyways, I hope you find your break fullfilling! I would love to visit...maybe lets get in touch via phone if you are interested?

Birgie....glad your homecare is now done and that you are managing well! Glad also you got to get dressed, go out of the house, and also go downstairs at one point - those simple pleasures probably such a joy.

Thanks for the comments on the picture of the storm! I took quite a few as it rolled in and over us - quite the spectacle! I too love storms and am always more than intrigued. Heart races, and the need to be right in the middle of it (kinda like I am at the hospital! haha).

Must go. Ang, get in touch!

Love you all!

Yay!!! Vaction (posted by Angie)

Hey Everyone,

I love that picture Jessie.... it is totally awesome! I love storms more than sunny days (weird I know) so I totally appreciate the mood of that photo. I would love that framed... yesereee!

Way to go Birgie on getting out there and all the progress you have made. Eating healthy too makes the recovery even more speedy so that is really respectable that you have kept up the good work with Al being such a support. That makes me feel really happy!

I have gone way off track to be honest... but think it is still not being to focus cause of not dealing with my everyday stress very well. It's been a long time since I have had a week off so I am looking forward to a good rest no matter what I do. So... Have a great weekend and maybe will have a drop in with some of you if you are around :)

Love,
Angie

Hallo from Mom and Omi

It was so good to read the news from you Birgit.Life is starting all a new for you and Al and that is a Giant step forward.You know already your limits and will take good care.I surly be proud of you.
I asume,Janine is galavanting arround Paris for the next days.I guess we all would like to be there with her silly me I could not keep up with her!!HA HA!I hope she has a great time.
And Jessy you are back from your holiday in the beautiful northern country.New things are waiting for you on you r job.My girlfriend had the treatment with the bloodsackers in Germany.
On her bad knees,she believes in the healing the natural way.How did you make out,Jessy?
Your picture is funny,it shows you had a good time.I hope you took good care of your health-
problem!See you at the BABY-SHOWER. Hugs Omi
Angie you have started you r1week holiday.If you should go with Jenny to the falls,I hope you drop in and see me,call me before.,please.I wish you a good time and sunshine all week.Hugs MOM/Omi
I Have not lost any weight,disgusting,even so I do a lot of walking.I got the celery and carrots
ready in the frig,and will refuce to eat any cake,there were 2 parties this week,with crummches Cake,temptations temptations!!!But I feel good and relaxed on my sunny patio.Helmut I will talk to you tomorrow,but I am happy for you that you lost some weight like Birgit too.
Love you all Mom/Omi

Time Out...

Yesterday was the last day of my nurse Lia's home care visits. We're on our own now. I'm able to change my last to dressings so that's not too shabby.Healed very well, a few minor sore spots.
Today Al took me for my first car ride to the Penn Centre where I wanted to pick up some special gifts. Felt like a new mother, careful not to hurt the tummy. Had a blanket over my tummy in the car so that the seat belt wouldn't rub against it. Like a pillow, Iquess. Short trip, first time dressed in nearly 3 weeks now so it truely was a treat!
Perhaps tomorrow we'll do another short walk about somewhere, it's good to keep the other muscles working too. Sitting and laying isn't always the best.
Also walked downstairs to our bedroom for the first time in 3 weeks, like coming home. All my clothes are there. Poor Al's been down there all alone.
Until I'm completely healed I think I'm best left upstairs to hangout and sleep at least.
Anyways we are maintaining good eating habits, the odd treat does come into the house. Al got a really great deal on Mrs. Field's Chocolate Chip Cookies, individually wrapped. They're awesome, but each cookie is 250 cal. You'd really have to give up alot for more than one of those. He loves them, definitely does not have a weight problem, so he should enjoy, he deserves them. He's very lucky!
I did have one, I'd say they were the best cookie I ever had. One was plenty, next time I'll have 1/2 of one.
Al will be juicing today, with all the fresh fruits out there, it will taste great I'm sure. Salads and soups for lunch, no breads. Drinking lots of crystal lite and eating lots of fibre. My dried fruits are still my passion.
I wish you all a wonderful weekend, see you soon.
Love Birgie

Trying to stay disciplined! (By Jess)

Good evening everyone, Things here are swell. I was having some uterine issues, but they seem to be sorting out now day by day. All is well I believe. Pending an ultrasound, but did have a mini MD physical and blood work done.

Otherwise, working this weekend days and have a new grad nurse shadowing me for over a month. She is sweet and quite competent....though our floor usually presents many new and different challenges for new nurses (such as leeching which had to be done today!!). I love teaching though and it keeps me on my toes.

The diet thing: Ya, well, I suck! I am so disappointed, but know that it is self defeating if I get too down on myself. Rather just to pick up again, remotivate, retrain and relearn all the reasons why it is so crucial to maintain a healthy weight. Curses to patients and their families for buying box after box after box of delicious chocolates for me to dive into in the midst of a hunger crisis' throughout the day! haha Well, I know I cant blame them as they are showing their appreciation, but honestly, how nice, healthy and refreshing would a lovely fruit platter be? HEHE Though totally difficult for them to get. Meh, I guess it is not going to happen like that and I just need to be disciplined! Right. Disciplined. I have not weighed myself in some time. Trying to eat well though as much as possible. I did buy yoga and pilates DVDs which I have been using and really love it. Good for inner peace at the very least!

So, just wanted to throw a note out there so you all knew I was still in the game (in so many words).

Hope you are all super!

Love and hugs, Jess

Ps: The top picture is from Lorna's cottage! Wicked shot huh? Taken with Matt's new cam by me! So proud how the picture turned out, and so happy we decided to wait outside to get those cool pics before the wild winds built up and it hailed on us! :P

Have a great safe trip sweetie...

Hi Neenie,
Hope you have a really great safe trip. See you when you get back! Love Mom

Where are you guys?

Where are you guys? Jessie, Matt, Janine? Neen I know you are going tomorrow but where is everyone?

Good Going Guys!

Way to go Ham and Birgie!!!! You guys are doing awesome :) Three more days till vacation... woo hoo!

Janine hope you have a great time and have lots of awesome experiences! Can't wait to hear the stories when you get home our little world traveller!

Love,
Angie

2 weeks later

Well folks , I quess the big question is, is how much weight did I manage to lose following my surgery. Today I got on the scale for the first time in 15 days, I've lost 11.5 lbs since my surgery. Since the beginning of this blog I've lost 16.5 lbs. I quess the last 2 weeks aren't really fair but it is a start to a continued weight and healthy recovery.
When looking back at all my original blogs I realize that my weight gain was often based on bad chioces in moments of stress. Perhaps being told you have cancer could be considered a major stress point.
I would like to THANK everyone on this weightloss blog for all their moral support and yes prayers too, to help me not jump back into past negative cycles .I went into to this blogger on a positive note to lose weight and get healthy. Little did I know that cancer (my birth sign) would really touch my heart and soul so hard, truly making me take things a little more seriously.
I am still here, I have survived, I can see my little families' life in photos on www.facebook.com, enjoy what they're doing without having to step out of my home where I am recupperating so nicely. Keep adding pictures to your facebooks, they're simple wonderful, just the medicine the doctor ordered.
Yes there is still pain but I've learned a little nap will remedy that too without taking painkillers (tylenol3) which bind me up worse than the pain itself. My incissions are itchy as all get out, healing quickly though. Only stitches left to come out (where my belly button was). That's frightening me a bit. sure it'll be OK. This too shall pass.
My little nurse Leah was born inTaiwan, adopted by a Dutch Family in St.Thomas 32 years ago. She has 7 siblings all adopted (eg.Angelina Jolie & Brad Pitt).
She's so sweet , calm and amazed at my progress, I'm so very lucky she's been around for the last week for her daily mini visits. She's made my recovery bearable as did many of the nurses and visitors in the hospital 2 weeks ago. I owe them a huge Thank You as well, as well as the surgery team. Last but not least my dear husband Al who continues to allow my to comfortably take it easy and get better. Thanks Sweetie for all you do for me and with me!
Our many Literati www.yahoogames.com games on our computers keep both our minds sharp and busy at times.
Al's cleans my clock many times.He's been at it for only a few weeks, catching on very nicely. All you Scrabble people we're ready for a good Scrabble Match, lots of practise.
So for now I'll say bye bye. Hope you're all having good starts to your new week.
Love Birgie

I agree...

Yes, Ham today I too had an openfaced whole wheat bun from your place loaded with
slices of the most delicious beef steak tomato, low cal.miracle whip too. it was soooooooooooo wonderful. A small astro yogurt for dessert.
Al was out for a bit on his own so I fared for myself. Cooked a whole chicken for supper, broccolli and potatoes for dinner. Will do for a few meals. Have plenty of broth to make homemade soup as well.
Since I can't go out I'm not tempted for treats, Al knows better than to bring them here. We're a fruit and veggie home these days!
Still haven't gotten on the scales, they're downstairs, I live upstairs these days. I am sort of curious though, perhaps I'll get Al to bring them up here.
Anyways all the best to all of you in whatever you do. I'm in www.facebook.com these days amazing how easy it is to get in touch.
Love you all
Birgie

Well it's a gorgeous Sunday afternoon. Birgie I talked with mom today and said are great you're doing and of course from your own words on the blog. Keep it up!

Angie, you're welcome to come up one night next weekend with Jenny; I never received any response from my email. Sus will be away from Wednesday until August 6 in Virginia with Sadie.

And Neenie-off to Europe, I am indeed envious. May you have all the great times, which I had that still remain imprinted in my memory. Those breweries are a great way to sample the finer parts of Europe at minimal cost! Mmmmm, maybe they do that at wineries too.

Well it was a great session at the fat man meeting today. Pastor Harvey (just kidding, he's actually jewish) talked about the Power of One today. That power being us as individuals; there is no one else like you or like me. But he talked a lot about our ancestry. As an example if you went back to 1500, we have about 1,500,000 direct ancestors. Everyone of them survived long enough to procreate and then another begot and so on, until we arrived at us.

He talked about our personal health being our personal responsibility as much as a debt to all of our foreparents, each of which nurtured their children in order to continue the lineage. And of course that discussion took us right back to the world of choices. We can choose to be fat or healthy. There is absolutely no one else to deal with our fatness except ourselves.

If you desire to lose weight and more importantly create a new lifestyle, then you will seek all the necessary assistance and it will become your reality. As Harvey says, "if you could lose weight by yourself, then you would have already done it". I am one who needs help and so far it's working. And I am eating normal food and I am not ever hungry. I just had a great toasted tomato sandwich on rye bread with a little margarine and miracle whip and it was delicious. Chased by a glass of skim milk and voila, no hunger.

I have deviated at times, such as when I had a ribeye steak on the weekend, but then I shifted back into gear and back on track. Since the end of May, I have steadily lost weight each week and have now lost 13 pounds as of today from the time just prior to joining Harvey on June 3. Another 60 pounds and then into maintenance mode. That should probably be some time next winter.

Remember you can do it, not with fads or gimmicky diets, but simply looking at what goes in your mouth. It is a choice and you are the master of that choice. So I have learned to say no to cake and cupcakes and muffins and doughnuts. There is nothing of value for my health therein at all. So if I say no to any of you at a family function, please don't be insulted but it is not good for me.

It is incredible to be in a room with fat men, many of whom are there for their families (they don't want to make their wives widows and their children fatherless); some for their health (it's amazing how many have and are no longer type 2 diabetics, now off of injections and pills) and others because they want to live a longer time. Imagine there are men there who had only a couple of years to live because of their obesity and now can contemplate another 30 years. All of this because we are being taught how to eat healthy and exercise-nothing more complicated.

So remember the healthier you become the longer you will live and I want all of my family with me for a long time.

Love,

Ham

PS Sus has lost about the same amount of weight as me because I'm the cook!

hey all (posted by neenie)

It's only 4 sleeps away from my trip and I'm getting excited. Melissa and I fly to Paris on Thursday, spend 3 nights there and then we'll likely travel down to the South of France and then head over to Spain for a while. We had discussed heading to Germany and Czech and Switzerland, but after some careful consideration we think we might be venturing to pack too much into three weeks. So we're leaning more towards just staying in two countries mainly and leave from Amsterdam.

In terms of diet, I think I've stabilized around 135 and my eating habits have been fairly good, I'd say. The occasional treat, but I'm trying to make healthier choices. In terms of fitness level, it has gone way down. I think moving kinda threw me off enough to get out of my cycle of treating my body very well. I ride my bike to work and I often walk to work and haven't taken transit anywhere in the city in a couple of weeks. But I never really stop to consider this a good daily dose of exercise. For me, I like to get my heart-rate up and I like to feel my muscles working. I've been kinda achy all over from lack of yoga and stretching and the like. I've been worried that my lack of abdominal strength is going to give my issues with toting around a 25lb backpack through Europe. I went for a run this morning and my stamina wasn't half as good as I'd like it to be. BUt you have to get back on the horse somewhere. And it's true that taking 20 to 30 minutes out of your morning to just go for a run or brisk walk and get it out of the way so you can forget about it really does a lot for your body. If you work out in the morning it wakens your metabolism and you'll continue to burn all day long. For me, my dietary choices are what will make or break any kinda of weight loss for me. But feeling physically fit and able is far more important to me than aesthetics. I would rather be 135lbs and able to run a marathon than 120 and have difficulty walking 2 km.

So my small victory today was jogging about 1.5 - 2 km. Baby steps.

I kinda think Europe will shed sound weight and pick up my fitness level with all of the walking and exploration that we'll be getting in to. Once I'm home I feel as though it's time for eating raw foods again. I really miss it. I'm also going to commit to hitting up the gym three or four times per week. I think if I design a routine and make a schedule for myself, it might be easier to work with.

I really hope that every body is taking care of themselves and feeling awesome. And... if anyone would like to do a raw vegan challenge with me starting in the middle of August, please let me know. I find that working alongside someone really motivates me to continue eating raw. It's fun to share your experience with someone else and marvel in all of the amazing changes that take place in your body. And since I've done it a bazillion times I would be more than happy and willing to coach anyone through it. I know it seems like stretch, but it's really not. Anyone up for it?

love,
neenie

Platz Baby Shower...

Just a quick note to say we're striving to come Jenn's Baby Shower. Al will be the bus driver,as it may be too soon for me to drive. If anyone would like to come along with us to Toronto on that day? Omi will come with us from St.Catharines. We could pick up people in passing by strategic spots, Mapleview Mall in Burlington, Jason and Tania's in Mississauga. Al could perhaps visit with Jason & the grandkids before coming back to Toronto to pick us up or they could do something together with the kids for a couple of hours.
Whatever we are definitely coming, looking forward to it!
Mom thanks for the nice words, we are looking forward to seeing you this afternoon.
Have a great weekend all! Lorna have a great relaxing holiday!
Janine Al and I wish you a safe , happy, fulfilling trip to Europe. Our thoughts are with you! Thanks so much for being there for us last week. Seeing your little smiling face after recovery truly was excellent medicine for me! THANK YOU again!

Enjoy ALL!
Love Birgie

Saturday (Posted by Angie)

Hello All...

Good to hear about your next step on the recovery road Birgie. I am sure it must feel so much better having those drains out and the staples removed. It feels so good when you can be free of such things. Sometimes we take simple things like showers and baths for granted eh? I have this week ahead of me at work and then a week off... yay! My main plan for part of the week I'm off is to clear out junk from my house! I always find it hard to keep up with everything with work and just the everyday stuff. The deep down cleaning never really gets done. I will try to make some time for fun too though but on a spontaneous level. Since Jenny has never been to Toronto Island or the CN Tower I thought that I would take her to TO for a day and just do what we may. I was thinking about a cottage but it is pretty expensive and I want to get this house in order really badly first. Who knows maybe we can truck up north on the Thursday and have an overnight adventure.... we'll see. I have another week off at the end of August so maybe then.

Love,
Angie

Mom

Hallo my dear Birgit!Congratulation,no more stishes,all gone and no more tubes!You must be so relieved.In no time you will be out and around.Your healthy attitude has helped you a lot.
A good trooper all the way.I am proud of you.And Al you are so wonderful taken care at the other side.The love you have for one another has helped for sure in Birgits recovery.A heartfelt
THANK YOU!
Mom/Karin

Staples Out....

Hi All,
It's been 10 days now since surgery and today I had 64 staples taken out. It looks great, a few rough spots which we're dealing with , otherwise all is well, healing nicely. The drain removal was achy but it's over and the body will mend. No more tubes and needles. Yeh! Was able to give myself a nice warm sponge wash without fearing I'd pull out a hose here and there. It was good to finally see what had been transpiring with my body. The spot where my belly button was removed is still stitched, a bit achy and sensitive. Always was a sore spot.
Anyways I continue to be careful in all my movements try and eat sensible, however pizza yesterday (friends dropped in for a short visit) did play havoc today.
Al's making a wonderful cabbage, cauliflower soup which will help eliminate some the gas which continues to remain from surgery. Eventually this too shall pass and I won't be so ballooned up.
For now he's keeping busy preparing more trivets for our shows, cooking etc. I may tackle small items (cards) later. Plenty of time!
Wish you all a great weekend! Hope all is going well?
Take care,
Love Birgie

Slow but sure....

Hi All,

Not much on being a take it easy kind of girl, so this Patient thing is a whole new venue for me. Finding that if I wash my hair every other day I feel better. In and out of bed all day, cat napping, watching tv, reading, phone calls now and then, playing literati with Al, pressing flowers, writing and eating , that about sums it up. Perhaps I'll finish off some unfinished paintings?

The occasional bout of nausea and pain to be expected I quess. Trying to keep away from the painkillers they're binding me up, thank goodness for stool softeners and hemoroidal cream. My system did not like this tampering at all.

Anyways I hope some of the Stolls and friends managed to catch your set in Hamilton on Monday. I had a nice chat with Terry ( the oldest nephew) on Sunday. His parents Elt and Jean will be celebrating they're 60th anniversary next week.

Janine I truly hope you enjoy trip abroad, it will do you so much good, just to see a different part of the world and new faces!

Meantime I'm focusing it on taking it easy wearing these funny lycra socks to stop my feet and legs from swelling. Be glad to be able to get back to normal. My followup appointment with my onconlygist is Aug. 8th for results of my surgery.

We are eating healthy. I still haven't weighed myself, post surgery water retention is ever present. Give it a month at least, before I hit the scales again.

Love you all
Birgie

It's Late (Posted by Angie)

Hey All,

Wow we stopped dead in our tracks on this blogging thing eh? Well I suppose life is busy and the weather has been fine so that is totally understandable. Birgie I hope you are feeling better and better each day and on your way to healing. I went to my meditation class tonight and it was very enlightening. I feel quite calm and learned some things about diet and nutrition to boot.

I'm off to bed now as its LATE... ohmygosh. One thing I learned about me today is how much I hate being LATE .... lol. But then you all know that about me .... haha.

Night night all... Hope you all are well.

Love,
Angie

From Mom/Omi

The blogger is full of so many news and I have to try to goable it all in.
What a surprise to see Angie getting out of the car,this morning,me standing in the open door with my cup of coffee.It was sunshine all over.It was a short but happy visit, I knew she was going to see her sister.I am so glad to hear ,you my dear Birgit are settling down.And the GREAT JUICER
is at work I mean Your Al,in every way he can.Thanks Al!!
To my Janine,many thoughts went throught my mind last night.I was very hard on myself with self critic.It is good to talk to friends who are listening with there heart.The wonderful thing,you have the understanding of your family.The blogger is fantastic,I wish I had it then!You were always doing things when you were little,that is in you and will came back,my darling.
Believe in yourself Janine!!!Your trip to the OLD COUNTRY will do wonders,I know.I wish you a great great time!What a good looking girl you are,love you.
To my Jessy,You are surly a spacial nurse,we all would like to have you close by.Most emportend,you know your limit and take good care of your own health too.Love you.
Winke Winke!!!!Omi/Mom

Nurse Jess here

Wow! You all have been so great at posting recently! And here I was a couple weeks ago feeling like a blogging loner! Ha!

Birgie, so glad you are home and feeling well considering everything you have been through. You are a trooper, and I might have, if you were my patient, deemed you my star patient! hehe Keep up the hard work and determination - it will get you far fast! :) Al, I haven't literally seen you help Birgie physically or emotionally, but believe me, I know your heart well enough and your love for Birgie, and because of this, I think everyone feels overwhelmed with appreciation that you have been such a rock for her! Yuo really deserve a big hug! :)

Ang, that was super sweet you took a drive to visit Birgie, Al and Omi today! I bet with the traffic being kind to you, it was a pleasant experience! Seems nice out too! And from your other entry, I agree with all you said about denial and our eating mentality. We certainly need to gain more self awareness at times, and really strive for clarity when choosing what to eat and why we choose to eat what we eat. I am really guilty in this area. My weakest is at work because there are times, like yesterday, that I didnt have time at work to eat or drink a thing for 6 hours. That is far too long. Mind you I haev gone 10 hours at work without eating, so 6 hours didnt seem so bad. But what bothers me about my strange eating times is if I wait too long to eat, I get this desperate starving feeling and I eat probably too much, and of course allow myself to reach for crappy food just to feel better - and all beause I am yes, hungry, but mainly because my brain isnt registering to slow down, think, and allow myself to be rational in food choices. Plus, I hate it that I dont eat often enough (in small meals) because when so hungry, your body stores current fat cells and makes things worse because it expects to be going into a state of "no food for god knows how long", and therefore holds all the bad fat cells! Funny how if you eat well, and in small portions more often, you will lose weight faster than if you starve yourself. I couldnt willingly starve myself anyways cause not only do I understand the implications, but I LOVE eating! haha

Janine, you are so precious, and DAMN girl, if only you would give yourself some kinda break and stop beating up on your emotional state. I know you know your emotional patterns, and I concur with Angie that with this Europe trip comes only great things!!!!! You are going to feel refreshed in every sense I think! You are going to come back a happy happy girl, and you deserve that! If there is anything at all I can do...let me know. Come to think of it, I know we would both benefit from hanging out...and especially if we did something extraordinary (please, no Coba though man! hahahaha)! Hmmmm, should we look up trampolining? We can let out some energy, laugh a lot and have bum wars!! Ya! I will get in touch soon. I just want you to know you are so great, and I love you in my life.

Dad, Harvey is proving to be a great tool for you in your weight loss journey. I am really thrilled that you have taken this on with such open eyes...and because this is a healthy (the only way I think) weight loss, you look great and like you are full of life! Keep it up as I am SO exicted for you.

I am working today (had the day off initially as yesterday was SUPER stressful...but someone called in sick so at midnight last night, they asked if I could come in)...and I am in stepdown. My patient had major complications post operatively, but he is doing fairly well now (stable to say the least)...and I tell the doctors it must be my decent nursing care bringing him around again! :) TE hehehee! Good humor is the name of the game here believe me! :) Anyway, ya, this job can be super stressful at times, and like you said Birgie, multi tasking is important. In fact, it is part of my everyday here. That was my struggle as a student...learning how to time manage and do a million things at once. It is especially difficult for me because I am hyper aware of people and have this longing feeling to do everything and anything possible to make a patient happy... and that added to the mix makes for a never ending, and never boring, day at work! Oh, and because we are a teaching hospital, every few mths we go through new residents, and honestly, majority are amazing and they learn fast (and we develop great rapport and relationships with them), but right now we have a new resident that is HORRIBLE to us nurses. We haev realized it is a gender thing - he looks down on women. It makes your life difficult as a nurse when the once peaceful well oiled machine was working so well is now all messed up, full of anger and poor communication. There has not been one nurse that has not had a rotten experience with him. I asked him to see a patient of mine last week who is a nurse herself and was nervous about her condition and requiring some MD reassurance, and he said, "I am the Doctor, and I will not go see the patient unless I see fit, you are the nurse should go see her". I told him right then, in a professional way, that that behavior was not going to work here. He has been asking us nurses to do things that are illegal (but he is defensive when we question him), so we had the chief Md talk to him. Anyhow, just goes to show that it is vital to have a positive and healthy working relationship with those you work with, and I think it is paramount in good patient care! We have been working hard recently to make sure patients are ok and that things are getting done properly d/t this doc. That's all I will say for now on that. This job is so complex!

Well, my patient seems to be waking and I need to obviously get to him, so all the best today to you all!

Love and snuggles, Jess

Lovely day for a drive (posted by Angie)

There is nothing more fun than suprising people eh? I got up at 6:30 and was out of the house by 7:30 on my way to St. Catherines to visit with Mom and then Birgie. Birgie was expecting me but I don't think Mom expected to see me pull up to her door at 8:30 on a Sunday morning... haha... the surprised look was priceless :) ! I drove partly the long way through Stoney Creek and Winona which was relaxing. No heavy traffic at that time of day which is the best way for me. I get worked up when there is too much traffic... so it was good there and back. It was good to see Mom and chat for a while. Ham called while I was there and I had a phone chat... we laughed a lot. Birgie you are looking remarkably well for all you have been through this week. Al is a blessing and I know is taking awesome care of you. One day this will all be a memory of a trial you endured and handled awesomely!

Have a great sunny day everyone!

Love
Angie

Thank God I'm Home...

Hi Family,

Brief little sit at my computer to communicate with my wonderful, supportive family and friends. Thanks for all the great messages to Al and I. He endured a marathon of driving and yes dealing with me as a "not too patient" Patient at times.Being a Patient isn't easy!
To be a nurse Jessie I can you pretty well need to multitask yourself at times. Hospital stay was an eyeopener. For 2 days I had the pleasure of all liquids and jello. My roommates all offered me theirs as well so I was in heaven, seeing jello is one of my favorite things in the whole wild world.
Janine and Al to see your smiling faces that first nite made the trip all worthwhile, sorry I kept throwing up. Ang sorry I didn't get to see you then, it was kind that you kept Al company with Janine.
Mom to see your happy face on the Thursday with Al, and the long hall walk too was very special, amazing that we both made it eh? All in all it's over!
Everyday the pain is getting a little less. Lea my St. Elizabeth nurse came yesterday, she was very nice. The nightly in and out of bed keep the muscles functioning. Believe me I'm drinking lots of fluids, trying to stirup the broth a bit, waiting for that special moment where the volcano erupts again.
My staples come out Friday. I'll be notified this week when I see my oncologist next. For now I am eating sometimes not as much, my blood pressure is rising, always had way too low blood pressure so it's more normal now as is my pulse, that is good.
Al will be juicing today a little has all sorts of goodies to try. Again Thanks everyone!
Love Birgie

Posted by Angie

What a beautiful picture Neens.... I know exactly how you feel and can totally identify. Life is everchanging and so are our emotions views as we learn and grow. As you can see we all go through this to some degree but I agree that putting it on here is great therapy because we know that our family is listening. And that is a great gift. It was a wonderful idea of yours to start this up and I hope you know that it goes much deeper than losing body fat... well I know you know that haha... you're a smart cookie. I love to read everyones thoughts and expressions as they are as unique as each one of us is and and as a family unit I think we ROCK!

One thing I can really identify with Janine is losing the drive for creativity as I have grown older. I think that we can learn from Birgie on this one as an example of how NOT to lose sight of this very important aspect of ourselves. As life changes and responsibilities mount it isn't easy to pick up a paint brush or a pen at whim and let those juices flow. Every artist or creative spirit has their moment when they feel uninspired. I don't think we can appreciate something if we have it all the time..... but when we find it I think it makes it even more brilliant don't you think? You are going to be going on a awesome adventure in a few weeks and I am almost 99.9% sure that you will find tons of inspiration for your creative soul in the venture. Perhaps inside right now you know that you are just waiting for that to happen? This is just a guess... but I think I would feel that way myself.... just kind of quiet and wondering until I hit the air and see the ocean below me and the clouds above me... Oh how inspiring that will be :)

Anyhows.... I have been watching an awesome movie called Zeitgeist... you can find it on Google video. Its about 2 hours long and I think many of you will find it interesting about power, money and religion. Some facts in there that you may not have known and I have to say I am fired up at the moment ready to protest and all that... lol. Watch it if you have the time and tell me what you think. If not here as this is not a political forum but email me. I would be curious to know how it makes you feel.

Love
Angie

what happened to janine? (posted by janine)

Hey everyone,

Wow... I've been bad at blogging. To be honest, I think I let myself slip down pretty heavy into some kinda weird depression. I'm not sure whether it stems from a new life change with moving and whatnot, or other little things compounding, but I certainly haven't felt so awesome this past week. My new apartment is great. I really like it here. And my new room mate -- Jenn -- is very cool and sweet. We get along very well. But I've been to this place before where boredom overcomes and I'm left with feeling kinda sorry for myself and feeling like a bit of a loser. I start to isolate and whatnot which is why I haven't been blogging. It's crappy. I haven't been to the gym in a while and my body is starting to scold me for it. In terms of eating, I think I've been making healthy choices, but have by no means been cutting back a bunch or eating like I'm on a diet. I've just been eating like me... which is generally pretty healthy anyway. A little raw, mostly vegetarian, sometimes I slip and buy a frozen pizza, and I eat chocolate and stuff. I still haven't figured out my intestinal complications. I'm pretty convinced it's wheat and gluten, but I have had a difficult time cutting wheat out of my diet entirely. I've been trying to eat plenty of foods that should be easy on my digestive system and beneficial. Seems to not be doing the trick. I wonder if something is wrong with my absorption or something.

As far as depression goes, I know that it will pass and I'll once again feel at the top of my game. It's all too like me to wander in and out of existential crisis when I have no body but myself to pay attention to. I try to remind myself that just because I'm alone does not have to mean that I am lonely. But I suppose it's true that people need people. Or goals. Or something that feels vital and important to them. I notice that I when I was young I used to do things simply for the joy that they gave me. Like being creative and making things with my hands. These days I feel like I don't do much of this. Maybe it's based in the fact that I'm awfully self-critical, and I wonder in the end who else my creativity benefits. Even with music I'm very self-critical.

But I forgot how much therapy there is in speaking of it and keeping in contact with everyone and blogging. It does make me feel far less alone.

Though everyone has experienced occasional slips and hiccups, I'm really happy that everyone is still trying and exploring and working at something... even if it's not a fully conscious effort. We're learning. I'm also very thrilled that my mom made it through surgery as well as she has. It's just a testament to her willpower.

I think I will make some tilapia this evening with veggies. And I would also like to take my butt to the gym.

neenie

Denial is a Sneaky thing! (Posted by Angie)

Hi Everyone,

Thanks Ham for your words of encouragement and wisdom. I have been thinking a lot about my "comfort" zone and why I choose to engage at times in what I know intellectually to be unhealthy eating and other habits. The fact that I have created what I know to be an unhealthy lifestyle and taking responsibility for that and still denying to change on a very basic level leads me to try to investigate the reasons for that denial in myself. That self talk that you gave as an example...where just one bowl of ice cream won't make a huge difference or eating chips or whatever those evils may be and the excuses we give ourselves internally to continue those habits are simply unacceptable. The excuses will only delay the desired outcome. So why am I delaying it? I think with your Harvey guru you have accountability and a weekly reminder of what is possible as well as a "plan". At work I know that not much can be accomplished in a day if I don't start at the beginning with a breakdown of what I will do in the appropriate time frame to accomplish each task. Imagine if I have a goal and do nothing to work towards it. Imagine I want to get a pile of paper off my desk and consistantly avoid that pile by doing other things that don't pertain to my intended goal. That pile of paper will not go away by itself. It will sit there until I actually take the steps to eliminate it. I can give all the excuses in the world why I "can't" get rid of the paper... and it will still be sitting there staring at me by the end of the day. It will knaw at me when I leave at the end of the day that it is still there for the next day with perhaps more paper added for me to deal with on the next day. If I continue eventually my boss will notice and will ask "what's up with the paper?". Eventually I will be fired because... Hey I didn't do my job!

Similarly if I ignore the fat, continue to avoid the appropriate steps to get rid of it, it won't go away (how simple is this to understand?) and my body will display unhealthy symptoms as a reminder that it can't continue ignoring the work to be done. I'll get sick and possibly die (fired) from years of neglecting the work that needed to be done. And it is nobody's fault but my own.

I think denying has a lot to do with how I view myself... what I feel worthy of and also my fears based on past experiences. These are very deep seeded truths that sometimes are hard to look at and that have externalized ultimately in the body I now carry. The weight of negative experiences and burying them and denying them and refusing to deal with feelings that are not so pretty at times stares back at me in the mirror. I'm not saying this to "be" negative because I know that is no help in resurrecting a positive self image. But I think that learning to listen to my thoughts and the ongoing conversation I have with myself helps me to identify who I am and understand that I am the only one that can change the course of that internal conversation in a more positive direction. I think that I do this for others, or try to... so why not give myself the benefit of kind understanding. I get annoyed at people who preach one thing but don't do what they preach themselves. But you know what... I am just as guilty of that. If you are going to Talk the Talk then you have to Walk the Walk. Do for myself what I would do for others. This is so simple and yet so hard to do. Insanity is doing the same thing repeatedly and expecting different results.

So I'm getting on with it!

Love,
Angie

Well good morning to the folks that have gone astray and to all others.

It's a tough journey to embark on. Weight loss and weight loss maintenance are burdens unfortunately all of us will have to carry all of our lives. This is our harsh reality.

So we all try our own solutions to somehow change our habits; but we find our habits are convenient because they have kept us "comfortable" all of our lives. Remember "Slick" that temptress is around us all the time telling us, "Come on, a little bit of ice cream can't hurt us this one time" or "What's one bag of potato chips this week to reward me for my great weight loss efforts". I am telling Slick to keep away from me and even I have my temptations (2 handfuls of unsalted peanuts were tasty last night). The only good news about that is that the peanuts have now left the house and they aren't coming back.

I do have the inspiration of Harvey and I am fortunate to keep the weight loss moving forward ever so slowly but it feels fine. Type of food and portion control (somewhat) are all important. It's amazing how simple it really is. If I stopped drinking wine I'd accelerate the weight loss significantly but I'm not there.

So let's deal with our personal issues in ways other than eating and go outside and have some fun!

Let's go Team B!!

Ham

What a recovery!

My dear Birgit!I am so thankful that you made it home already.But now you have to watch,that you don't overdo it,you need a time of healing.It is good to know,the home care came to night.
I know Al will take good care,but if i can do anything,please you can call on me.
When you have time call me tomorrow morning.
Hugs and kueker Mom
To all my blogger family.It,s importend to stay healthy!!!!!
Mom/Omi/Krarin

Get back in the game... (posted by Jess)

Hi everyone!

First, definitely pleased to here Birgie is recovering and hopefully home soon. Nice that some of you could be there to support her. And awesome if the drains came out already! Not a pleasant thing, but better out than in! Road to recovery is straight ahead and I know Birgie and her positive attitude will get through this all ok.

I am excited to get away to the cottage to visit with everyone, and then to Matt's volleyball peoples "Summer Slam" - a big party with lots of sports and fun! A much needed escape from the city again.

I have slipped as well with eating. I have been eating tons of sweets (mainly icecream - my excuse is in desperation of something cold, but I guess I could suck on an ice cube if that was the case! HAHA). I am terribly disapointed and feel like this weight loss thing is going to take a lot more work on my part. I am really considering going to Yoga class atleast once a week...to not only feel good physically, but emotionally be able to meditate and get my mind off my typical stressors (mainly involving work). If I like it enough, I would love to go twice a week. Will start that soon. Otherwise, just had my good girlfriend and her 14 mth old sweetie pie son over for a visit and sleep over and we walked everywhere with the stroller and even us adults played frisbee in the park. I feel ok with the amount of physical activity as I know I can always get it as I make sure I have fun, but I have to DISCIPLINE myself and stop putting bad crap in my mouth. CURSES!!!!! So, I work this whole weekend and I am hoping our patients haven't showered us with more boxes of chocolates....going to try to prepare only healthy meals for the 12 hour day - it is tough! All this eating well business is just a daily challenge and I have to get over it. SO, I am now feeling inspired again to think before I eat.

Ya Ang, I too strayed, but I am hoping we can all be sure to keep up on it, and even if we slipped recently. I hope we can continue to use this blog to support and love eachother through the tough times of weight loss and maintenance! I know it just now inspired me to get back in the game!!!!

Love you all!

Yay!!! Thanks Lorna!!!

Well I wish you a wonderful holiday and lots of R&R as I know you deserve it Lorna. Thank you for sharing with us and no need to hang your head hon! It is all a matter of perspective and we certainly don't need any guilt or that yucky stuff in our lives. It is all for a reason. I have not been that diligent either and slipping into old patterns... though if I have a Timmy's I am down to one cream still instead of two... yay me :) ..... however there is a whole expanse of life ahead and I think that we need to think of each step even if it is little, as a positive. Acknowledge the not so good stuff and spill the beans to get rid of that denial. None of us is perfect.... if we were we would be making infomercials and selling what we got to the whole world. We are human and what works for one may not for another and also timing is part of the factor and where are mind set is at such a point. You are exercising Lorna which is awesome and I commend you for that. A dog can be a good thing or a bad thing... I would ask Ham and Sue about that one... lol. Anyhow, I'm so happy to hear from you and will miss you for the next few weeks. I hope you have a wonderful holiday though and will look forward to your reflections when you get back to share with us. :)

Love
Angie

Lorna again

Hi Angie,
I am still exercizing regularly, and have been slipping badly with the weight loss. I do well for much of the day, then binge out on not so good stuff late at night. Work load and some recent emotional upheavals have been very distracting and having me running for good old comfort food. Maybe I need to get a dog for some hugs........

I haven't gained more, just those same pounds came back and I am at square one.
#(*&^$#(*&^%^&$%)^&T_@Q#@#)_ (Jenny, hold your ears again, dear! It's just Lorna swearing again).

Nothing else to report except my head is hung, rather than held high, right now.

I am so glad that Birgie is coming along. All this time I have been having a very positive feeling about this outcome for here. Since I am not Gawd, my feelins don't really count in the the bigger schemes of things, but, I just had a good feeling that all is going to be O.K.

On Monday, I leave for the cottage I rent up north for 2 weeks, so I won't have any internet access. The Platz's and extended boyfriend (Matt) and extended wife (Jenn) will be up for the weekend, so I can catch up with the news from them.

Lots of love to everyone...... Love, Lorna

Thanks Mom

Thanks Mom for the update on Birgie.... I am wondering where everyone else is? We may have strayed from our weightloss challenge cause of distractions but I sure would like to hear from others on how we are doing. I have been slipping horribly but I hope to get back on track. It would be nice to hear from each one of you. The words of support are still very much appreciated.

Love
Angie

Thursday July 12th

To all! Al and I went to see Birgit in the Hospital.She was sitting on a chair and wanted to get up and walk around.What a surprise she is doing soooo well,yes Janine and Jason your Mom is a real Trooper.The nurse came and told her, they will take off almost all the "Pipe's" tonight.Also the medication,after she has to take the medication herself.sure she will have pain.While she got some lunch-yellow a chicken broath and a cup of tea, Al and I went to have a bit to eat.Birgit was tiered and needed to have a sleep.Also for Al I think it was good to get home again.I am so thankful that all went so well.Maybe she is home on Saturday.
Tonight Angie will come and also Al's children for a visit.

Angie and Janine,I found the letter of Janine in my Computer.I always have to try and try again!!Love to all,Mom/Omi

Hey there

Hey All,

Well today sure was a nice break from that awful heat eh? Hope everyone is doing well. Miss hearing from yas....

Love,
Angie

Mom - How to open the letter

Hi Mom:

Open your messenger list that shows all the people you can contact and click on the little envelope icon at the top under your name. That will open your hotmail email.

Love
Angie

Omi

I have a MSN letter in my mail and I cannot get it on the screen.What shall I do.??
It's a p u s s l e!!!!!! HELP!!
Mom/Omi

Tuesday July 11.

Hi Helmut!I am so glad Birgits Operation went well.Talked to Al,he saw her in her room.Her stomach was upset,not so good,and she felt some pain too.Poor Schnuddle Puddle.She can regulait
the pain wit a button.That will help.I will not go tomorrow with Al,I have a dentist apointment.It,s just as well she will need a lot of rest.Janine stayed in Hamilton with friends,they will meet and
Al takes her to the Go station in Burlington.If it is oky with Birgit,I am going on Thursday with Al.

And my dear Sue you also need Surgery,you must have a lot of pain.I have met People with hip surgery in the pool doing erxercises.They always told,it was the best to learn how to walk again.And how nice you have the pool right in front.You are so much younger than the elder people I saw.But of course therapy you will have too.I wish all goes well with you too.
We all have to keep ourself going that we can enjoy the new generation.I can't believe,you are
grandparents soon .I am so happy I feel well in my age to see my great grandchildren.
Hope to see you before you have the operation.
Much love Mom.

I received the information from Angie that the operation was succesful and Birgie was heading to recovery. Now I expect the other witnesses A.K.A. Al and Janine have more current information, but it is great to hear that all is working as it should.

I must say that being such a fan of privatization, I still appreciate the hard work of health care professionals and the care we get when faced with these tough situations. This should never be compromised and I know that Birgie will be well cared for.

Sue found out yesterday that she will have her hip replaced (the one she thinks she injured many years ago from a fall from her horse, which has developed into serious arthritis) on October 30, 2007. The good news is that this is now such a normal procedure and it will be performed in Guelph. Imagine that she is expected to negotiate our stairs after five days in the hospital.

Good to see the family engaged on all of this and let's continue take care of ourselves (eat healthy)-we have many Christmases yet to be enjoyed.

Ham

PS Mom I am also so pleased that you put the effort into writing on the blog!

Monday July 11th

To my Family!It is 3 o clock,Birgit's Operation is over.Angie just called me from the hospital.
Birgit is now in recavery for 1 hour.We will hear more ,when she is in her room.
I am so thankful,all went well,so to speak .My thougths are with Birgit and Al too.Thanks to Angie and Janine,standing in for me.
Love Mom/Omi

Sorry still can't fill in the title area.... Boy was it hot enough for everyone today? I got a lot accomplished at work today so everything is in good shape there. Hope you have a good nights rest tonight Birgie Puddle and know that you have lots of people sending you love.

Night night all .... Love yas
Angie

Hi All,

This is puddle signing in. I'm all set for tomorrow. Mom nice to see you're writing! We love to see your stories on the blogger.
Al is out getting some juicer books at book depot, after watching our juicer do it's job on City Line. Thanks Tania for letting us know.
We didn't see it all but enough at the end. Apparently the show will be on the internet tomorrow. Some really great recipes. He's also getting a little side table for the juicer . A permanent home in the dining room, easy access.
Finished off a small order of art cards for a new artist client in Oakville, today. Al will deliver her order at his leisure.
Elizabeth Elkin's work is wonderful, look forward to painting once I'm home and up and about. She truly inspired me! Her work can be seen at http://www.trueart.ca very impressive! Honoured to have printed cards of 4 of her paintings for her.
By the way Janine has our site http://www.albirg.com/ up and running again, all the glitches have been resolved. There you will see where we will be in the fall. Thanks Janine for getting this online again so quickly, we're truly grateful!
Worked hard all winter getting product ready for all these shows. Look forward to all our shows, a great weightloss and especially lots more energy after tomorrows' surgery. I'm a lucky girl, very blessed to have a family that cares so much!!!! Thanks all!
Love you all
Birgie

Mom/Omi

To All.The time has run away on me last week.They were repairing with a noisy machine the balconies on top of my peaceful patio,with all day running water on my plants and the chaving of the paint
fell on my plants .finely somebody helped me getting them to a safe place.
My Canada Day Weekend was quit,but I was so happy to see Angie and tall Jenny visiting me on Monday.We had ideal weather and drove to P0rt Delousie.Jenny went on the Horse carrosell
for 5Cent a turn,Still the same since years!!!Come down and have a ride!!!!I showed them the pier with all the boots,were I sometimes sit on a banche,after a walk.Looking into the water I dream
I am In my Hometown Flensburg. We decided to go up a steep hill,helping me on my walker,to go and have something to eat On top was a great restaurant wich served healthy food I think we all enjoyed it. Jenny would have liked to go on a boat ride in Niagara Falls,
but understood that in that---traffic we would not find a good parking spot.So we looked at the falls from the car and went back home.I loved having this great outing with Angie and Jenny.
The heat is on again.sSo good I have aircondition.Birgits Day will be tuff.thinking of you my Puddle
Love to all !Mom/Omi

Sunday at Birgit and Al

My dear Family!I had a very nice visit with Birgit and Al.Us always The Dinner was sooo good
Took home a Doogie bag!! We played Rummycub after the dinner,Al was the Winner.
Our Birgie is in good spirit.She knows that we all are thinking of her.In her mind are all the plans for the shows after labourday,and that keeps her on top .When I hugged her she laugth and sad.looking forward to loose that tommy!Angie and Al will keep me posted.I am so glad that
our Janine will go with Angie to see her,when she cames out of the Operation.
My thoughts will be with her all the way.
To all but spacial to you my Birgit good luck and all my love Mom/Omi

By the way we had a delicious Ladlow Wine!!You know what I mean!!

Lazy Day.... I can't seem to type in the title line... hmmmm... Anyhow... Glad you are having a good weekend Birgie and hope everyone else is too. It's stinky hot here and rainy so chilling inside and watching movies.

Jenny is enjoying camp having one week under her belt and 6 more to go. It keeps her active and doing what she loves which is exploring nature, fishing, swimming, hiking and canoeing. One of her weeks will introduce her to camping fundamentals and will include an overnight sleepover in a tent. She is very excited to learn how to make a camp fire.

I'm looking forward to a week off beginning July 30th. It's been a long time since I had time off and I can't wait.

As for your older post Jessie about plastic surgery... I have thought about lipo suction...lol as well as getting rid of ugly veins in my legs. But I could never justify spending money on myself for that. It's better spent elsewhere in my opinion. But I suppose if I had the means I would entertain it more. If I had the means though I would probably hire a personal trainer named Sven instead of going under the knife.... lol. That seems much more pleasant to me. But losing weight compared to not being happy with a body part you can't change is a bit different.

Anyhow.... I better get back to that movie :)

Love you all
Angie

Thanks Family! Today mom is coming over for a lunch/dinner and an afternoon of rummikub. I am so grateful to all my family and friends for all their prayers, all will be well.Thanks you all!
Al will be having the option to stay at his youngest daughter Pat's home which is within walking distance of the hospital. Being a walker he may just chose to leave the car there and walk to and from now and then. It will also give him a quiet place to go when they're busy with me at the hospital.
We also have friends living in that area. Dropped in on them Friday, turns out Lucy's older sister is also in Henderson with a broken hip so Al can also visit with Pete and Lucy if he wants too. The time will go fast and I will be home again. He wants to stay with me and help take care of me, so lucky for that I know!
He's the best friend and husband a girl could ask for, I am so grateful and love him with all my heart!
Anyways, I am so thrilled, Janine has got our website up and running again. Thanks Janine and Jason for orchestrating all this as well. Quite the learning tool for us.

Love Birgie

PS: Picked up an exercise ball for later on, see if I can maneuver it when I'm better.

OK, Ms. Birgie, you just go girl!
I think of you daily, and am sending "good vibrations".
Love, Lorna

Good Morning to All!

The sun is smiling brightly on all of us; we're destined to have a most stunning weekend weatherwise. Isn't Canada just simply outstanding!

Thanks angie for the call to keep us posted on the support of Birgie during her historic operation next week. Your family network is solidly in place Birgie and everyone is cheering for a successful operation and the opportunity for you to go pain free into the future (I guess that will come later, now that I think of it).

To the witnesses (Al, Janine and Angie) waiting patiently for the outcome at the hospital, it is surely a reminder of the solid foundation we have as a family and I for one appreciate all of you being there for my big sister (soon to be lesser). Mom, your support from a distance I know will be resoundingly there and I have every confidence that it will all work out.

So I'll postpone my weight loss discussion pending the post-op and I look forward to having you enjoy your art and craft shows in the near future, Birgie.

Love,

Ham

Lorna and Angie,
I need to commend you both on some major turn arounds . Wow no Macdonald's, that was really hard Angie, I'm so proud of you! Wise choice on your part.
Lorna good for you sticking to your guns, it isn't easy this weightloss thing, imagine 2 lbs. last week.
It's all about "picking yourself up and starting all over again" when we lose our way for a bit. Al's been juicing up a storm, going to suggest he get a juicer cookbook at Book Depot, one for healthy juicing.
Take it easy!
Love Birgie

Janine we love your new home! Hope you will be happy there? See you soon.Have a great weekend!
Love Mom

All's a go. I had my pre-op and I'm going into this healthy, all my vital signs are in good running condition, ready to take on the task at hand. The anetheologist was kind and explained what he will be doing to me and I'm content with having an epideral which will help with the pain for a few days after wards as well.
My sense of humour is here and I look forward to speedy recovery as well.
Nothing but fluids Monday as well as body cleansers, will be staying home for sure. Have gone this route 2 summers ago when I had a colonoscopy and gastroscopy, the stuff I drank was gross but sure did flush out my system.
Well I think by a week Monday I surely will have shed a few pounds. Maybe not fair, really had no intention of it going this way when we started this blogger a couple of months ago.
Having mom over for lunch Sunday and some rummikub in the afternoon.
Tuesday Janine and Angie will join Al at the hospital towards the end of the surgery. I probably will be out of it but at least they'll be there to hear the outcome with Al I hope. Fingers crossed! I'll get Al to Email the result of the surgery.
Have a great weekend all. Again thanks for all your kind thoughts and prayers!
Love Birgie

Cosmetic surgery anyone? (Posted by Jess)

Question: Would you ever have cosmetic surgery? If so, what would you have done?

I am curious because it tends to be a growing trend...I would have a nose job (always been self conscious about my nose - that is something I bet you didnt know about me!).

Love you all, enjoy the weekend!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Birgie, thinking about you!

Love, Jess

Lorna #16

Hi Everyone,

I have not written for while as I was swamped with work. I was on call all the long weekend, and there was no end to emergency clients out in the community. It's been work without a break. Something had to give, and today it did - woke up feeling sick, like I was hit by a Mack truck. I cancelled clients, had to re-book into the weeknd unfortunately as I had no other time available, but just stayed home in bed. Got a lot of paperwork done and slept on and off all day. Drank enough fluids to compete with Lake Ontario. I'm feeling better tonight, or maybe it is the Tylenol!

Man, oh man, I have got to find a better balance somehow. I don't know what or how to do that, but it is a project that is percolating in the back of my mind. I cannot keep up this pace for the next 5-7-10 years, yet the pace and work that I now have supports the rest of my life. There must be a better way. I need to get creative and find it.


I lost 2 pounds last week. That felt really good. The stagnant place has been breached and I am starting to go down again. And there is some pride and joy at my improving health and that I have no major health concerns whatsoever. That is such a blessing.

At the same time, the world judges me by my weight, I judge me by my weight, and as John just wrote, there is also that very strong vanity issue. I dislike being so heavy, fat. It's so strange, that when I think about myself mentally, I am far slimmer and feel like my outer vitality matches my inner vitality. And then I look in the mirror..... and my outer reality just stares back. Each pound lost is so hard won, so very hard won. There is no ease in this particular life challenge for me. There never has been.

There is definitely stress and self-esteem issues bubbling away as well. All part of that very real challenge to create my life anew these days. So, just keep plugging away, day by day. I am certainly eating far healthier now than I have done in years and years. That part feels really good. And working out just gives me so much energy.

So, that's it for now. Love to you all, Lorna

Mailing addresses please ladies! (Posted by Jess)

Hi everyone!

I am in need of the following mailing addresses (for Jen's baby shower)....please post on here or email me at jessplatz@yahoo.com . Thanks cuties!

Janine, Birgie, Angie and Omi!

Love and kisses, Jess

Good Bye Aunt Flo... It's been a Great 45+Years...

Hi All,
Quick update on my cancer situation. We have just received a phone call that there has been a surgery cancellation for next Tuesday, July 10th at 11 am.
I had to decide whether to wait until August 21 or have it now. Personally I’d rather get it over with and get on the mend and Get on with Our Healthier Life. Our family weight loss blogger truly is helping me stay focused, thanks all!
Yesterday visited some of my artist friends in Niagara at the Butterfly Conservatory. This visit inspired me to ready more artwork for the show on July 14 and 15, today, we’ve been busy. A spot has been saved for me , we’ll see. Perhaps I’ll be able to make it if I’m out of the hospital. Have this neat new lounge I could lay under a tree there and enjoy the ambience, if not we’ll aim for the August show or maybe next year that could work too.
The one thing I request is that no one change any holiday plans especially all our family members. This is not a time for drastic changes. All will be well, I’ve been wanting this hysterectomy for a long time so that this is the best 60th birthday gift I could get. Let’s get this cancer inconvenience over with , Live On and Enjoy!
Preop on Friday afternoon, let's get this show on the road! Pleased it’s going so fast less time to think and worry.
Thanks for all your positive thoughts and information regarding my condition. It’s all been very helpful and I am trying really hard to be positive but there are times I do slip and get angry. Only human I quess.
Keep you all updated.
Love
Birgie and Al (My Knight in Shining Armour)

Tuesday after Long weekend!

Hi All...

Well this will be brief... Highlighting on Hams paragraph about stress related weight gain I saw something on the news to that affect as well. I am off to start a Meditation class tonight for 3 hours to find a reasonable and hopefully enlightening way to relieve my stress. I'm all go go go for most part of my life mostly at work where time is of the essence in most situations so I need to figure out how to wind it down without ingesting stuff mindlessly. Hopefully I will find my mind since it is always running away... haha.

I didn't step on the scale today as it was a rush again this morning and I plain forgot. I'll do that tomorrow morning. Otherwise yesterday I spent some time with Mom and we found a healthy place in Port Dalhousie to have lunch and were not too naughty.

Also Birgie... my thoughts are with you as well and you can count on me to be whatever you need me to be.

Love,

Angie

Good Morning to All;

Well a long weekend has now passed and were we good to our bodies?? Well, Sunday we had Josh, Jen and their several friends over for the day and into the night. Lots of good talk, lots of beer and wine and indeed the famous Venezia pizzas from Erin. I succumbed to three pieces but did not indulge in the chocolate thereafter. So I was pleased that I still had some where with all to say no.

In spite of that, weight loss is on track without a great deal of effort. It probably helps that I spent about 15 hours doing all sorts of garden work, the most exhausting is the trimming throughout. The good news is that I enjoy the work and it allows me to cleanse my mind doing mindless stuff-no t.v., no computer, which can at times be very uninspiring.

There has been a recent study done in the U.S., where obesity and stress are directly linked in many of us. There is a trigger in our brain that actually accelerates the development of fat, when stressed. Having said that, it therefore also suggests that we need to know what stresses us and look to deal with it as the fat will otherwise come. I for one need to try harder to recognize my stress symptoms and not use food and yes, drink to soothe me.

I am also driven by a need to feel good about seeing myself in pictures-I am genuinely offended by my fat pictures and vanity is a good driver to make this weight loss effort successful. The health results become much more obvious, as my knee joints are joyfully acknowledging, but the self esteem that comes with an improved body can not be ignored.

So don't let your guard down during the dog days of summer. Enjoy the great outdoors and watch what you put in your mouth. This is my conversation to the mirror!

Birgie, my thoughts are with you as you prepare for the operation. Let's all help ourselves in the coming months, but Birgie I'm there to help as best I can.

Ham