Well here I am starting my Diary after all this time. For those of you who know me I started Cohens in December 2006 and completed refeed march 2007. I lost 15kg and was estatic.:jump:

Last night I was so down with myself that I wrote a very long post in the "LIFE AFTER COHENS" thread.

The reason for opening up my own diary is because since finishing Cohens I have slowly put on.........what was 6kg has now gone up to 8kg:flame: yes I have just got back from the gym had a shower and went to put on my size 12 pants from summer and they were so tight....so I hopped on the scales and the horrible shock of that figure now creeping back into the 70's was like a horror movie.

How could this happen? well I know how but i am so up set with myself:(.

ANYWAY REGRETS ASIDE I AM MOTIVATED ENOUGH AND BACK ON THIS NEVER ENDING JOURNEY OF WEIGHT LOSS. THE SCALES THIS MORNING HAVE DEFINITELY BEEN A WAKE UP CALL.

So here is my weight loss journey part......2.:rolleyes: wish me luck.

Sam:)

Hi Sam

Welcome back!!! And well done on you for catching it when you did and admitting to yourself that you had let go a bit on your control of the situation. Just think it could have been back to the 15kg you lost or even worse - more so dont think so badly of it. Try and spin the positive of the situation (could have been a lot more kg gained) and then use that positive energy to create more. When everything seems down it can be hard to get positivity rolling but if you can get it started it's much easier to keep it flowing.

You were finishing your refeed when I was researching the program and you were certainly an inspiration to me and I am sure you will continue to inspire. Sometimes we are thrown these curve balls just to remind ourselves of what we can do but also what we must do to stay there. Like you said in your post in the other thread it is something you have to continue to manage for your life.

Good luck restarting and we are all here for support!

Lauren

Sam- I just popped over, read your last night's post & came back here. Good for you jumping on the scales. I have been wondering if you had yet & wondering how you are going. I have you to thank for encouraging me when I first started in the forum. I think you have such a positive outlook on life. I am sure you will be back to goal weight in no time, with a lot more knowledge to equip you to keep the weight off for life. Thanks for starting your diary, xo Cate.

Thanks for those encouraging word LifesGood and Cate.

I wake up call indeed and yes I probably needed this to happen to get me to acknowledge that I can't just settled into old habits and stay the same weight for ever.
YOU CONSUME MORE FOOD - YOU GAIN WEIGHT. That is the realisation.
The other thing I had to do was revue my goals of why I needed to lose weight -at that was to be slim and healthy by the time I turned '40" which is next year.

Well yesterday I was so good exercised, ate healthy. I was challenged in the evening though, my older son started futsal (indoor soccer) and he had to play 2 games so we went and had something to eat out after, and I had grilled fish and salad - I wasn't even tempted by the boys hot chips. I drank lots of water through the day, green tea and also hot water, I've been feeling a bit clogged up lately so I am hoping this will flush out my system. I also kept moving the whole day doing the chores around the house and not sitting down much.

The other thing is I won't be following the Cohen's plan 100% only because I have just joined the gym and started exercising on my cross trainer and I don't want to give it up.
So I am having a bit more veggie, and will experiment with the carb's etc. I am not after fast weight loss this time and just want to see it come off.

Off to exercise now - will check in later.

12/09/07 71kg
Goal weight between 60-65kg

Sam:) Time to start inspiring myself............

Did my cross trainer and cleaned half of the house, then hubby called and he took me out for lunch. I feel great I didn't get anxious about eating out.
I ordered a entree size healthy chicken and salad, but it was enormous, no wonder we are all getting fat in the western countries.......and to think the developing countries struggle for one meal a day. It's a sad set of circumstances.

So that's it for me won't check into night I'm off to see Miss Siagon with a friend tonight.

Sam:)

Hi all

Just letting you know how my day went. Didn't manage to exercise but did lots of walking all day at the shops. Ate healthy as well.
Tomorrow I will weigh in........at the moment I have lots of stomach bloating and pain, I tried some diet tablets on the weekend and I think they actually made me gain weight and the stomach issues.

Hopefully it will disappear soon.
Does anyone have any suggestions?

Hope everyone esle is doing well.

Goodnight.

Weighed in today a bit of trepidation..........but was amazingly surprised-I've lost 2.2kg:eek2:

My god it just shows what can happen with a bit of exercise and eating right.

Well I'm off to exercise check in tonight.

estatic sam:jump:

Starting weight-71kg
14/09/07-68.8kg

Well here I am back again, twice in one day. Just had my dinner steak and salad.
Busy afternoon with kids and their friends and park visit. I am proud to say I stayed away from all the wines and nibbles the other mum's brought.

Exhausted now and would enjoy a drop of red but will instead have an orange and a cuppa.

Have a wonderful weekend all

Sam:)

Hi Sam, Good for you! I love your attitude. I'm too scared to get off track so hopefully won't. It is great that we have the knowledge & skills to whip that weight off in no time if we need to. I think Cohen's seem to be right when they say our bodies are trained to lose weight. That steak & salad sounds good. I haven't had a steak for weeks. I will have to make a 40km(each way) trip soon & stock up on some decent steak. I love it! I hope you have a wonderful week-end, cheers, Cate.

Today I woke early after going to bed past midnight - I spent the evening catching up with friends and family over the phone. I love Friday nights the whole family completely unwinds and we have a light meal and just veg out.
Today........well to be honest I didn't do Cohen's at all......BUT I didn't eat any rubbish either.

I made pancakes for the family and the kids helped with cutting up fruit, it made a nice change from our usual bacon and eggs cook up on a Saturday morn, which i must add I did not participate in I normally stick to my yoghurt and fruit, so my breakfast's were most of the time Cohen's friendly. Had lots of water and a big pot of Chai green tea it's my favourite at the moment very refreshing.

The rest of the day I kept busy - even though I didn't do any scheduled exercise I did keep moving with doing the housework,washing and ironing, I only finished about 5.30pm.
I did have some tuna and rice a very small portion late in the afternoon and for dinner I had salmon with salad and 1/2 a portion of Turkish bread with philly spread. Dessert was an orange. I find oranges great for getting my system working after being constipated for long periods. (sorry for the details)!
So that is my day, not too exciting but I am so busy with kids during the week that I love having the Saturday at home with us all not racing off anywhere. Sundays we usually go for drives or visit their grandparents.
So that is me for now.
Chat again later.
Sam:)

Hey Nans68,

Good work with all the exercise yesterday, you must have been exhausted at the end of all that house work. I know I am. Today my day is like your yesterday. Hopefully I can finish by 5.30 it would be nice to be able to sit down and relax that's for sure.

Don't worry to much about the deviations, I understand that it can add to your weight loss by not losing anything, but as I understand it if you are exercising burning more kj than your eating it's got to move somewhere..

Good luck on today. Hope you have a good Family Day.

Faithie

Hi Faithie

I am not stressing this time it doesn't help anyway. We had a lovely day out at the beach the boys spent ages digging in the sand and I sat in the shade and read the newpaper (bliss).

Well here goes with what i ate yesterday, i started the day off well and had my yogi and fruit, I nibbled on fruit and rice cackers while out.
By the evening I didn't do so well:cry: I nibbled on the boys kfc chips and had 2 nuggets,a glass of wine and.......ice-cream:eek2:.....and I am not finished yet pita bread with jam(I didn't have butter):rolleyes: and cups of tea.

I know it wasn't good but today I am having no carbs and will exercise later.
I had yogi today with fruit,green tea and water.
I should be exercising now but i am looking after a friends little boy unexpectedly while she takes her other little boy to the Doctor's.

So I will report back tonight and let you know how it all goes.

Hope everyone else had a wonderful weekend and did lots of losing.

Sam;)

Well here I am back, I am so tired after looking after the little boy he was so good though we played games and he entertained himself with my boys toys while I did the washing etc. I think it's always more stressful when it isn't your childanyway By th

Well here I am back, I am so tired after looking after the little boy he was so good though we played games and he entertained himself with my boys toys while I did the washing etc. I think it's always more stressful when it isn't your childanyway By th


Just finishening what I started, well i didn't manage lunch:eek2: by the time the mum came to pick him up and she stayed for a bit - then it was time to leave to do school p/up's.

Tonight I had a tuna salad with a little pasta:confused: I know I said I wouldn't have any carb's but I was starving by dinner time I followed this with an orange. Not stressing:rotflmao::rotflmao: tomorrow is another day.
I didn't eat rubbish which I so easily could have.:)

See ya tomorrow
Sam:hug2:

Hi Sam,

I wish I could be like you and stick to the program after a deviation. It's taken me 9 months to get back on track, geeze I could of had a baby and guess I probably look like it too! Hence why I'm back. LOL.

Sounds like you had fun with your kids yesterday. Life is about family,fun, joy and happiness. they are the most important things to me.

I've heard that if you get those ketone strips that you can check your level of ketosis and that if it is high then things like pasta etc don't play too much haovic on what we eat, still letting us loose weight. Just think a small deviation now is probably nothing compared to what we used to do. You should be proud that you can stop and get back on the cohen's journey after having a taste of life.

Hope you have a good day tomorrow.

Faithie

Hi Sam

You are doing well and staying positive which is so important!

At the end of the day from what you said first up is you're not going back on to your original plan but are going to try to eat heathily and exercise. So far that's what you have been doing, except for the KFC nibbles but hey - everything in moderation. As long as we're not eating it everyday or even every week there is nothing wrong with having some occasional food occasionally!

Keep up the good work!

Lauren

Hi Faithie and Lifegood

I am vey focused this time and for some reason i am making this more a lifestyle choice then just another diet. I think that's where I went wrong intially. When I discovered Cohen's I new this was the perfect weightloss programme(I don't know how)? but after researching and trying so many other diets this was the one for me. And with only 2 weeks into the plan I felt the difference, my clothes became loose and that spurred me on even more no deviations and no exercise and the weight came off - But I think with everything going on in my life during Cohen's and getting closer to refeed I started to waver a bit and I became tired of of the restrictiveness of plan so once I'd finished I didn't conciously start going back to old habits but it happen gradually........so gradual that one day i woke and I had put on 8kg.:flame:

So I think this has made me realise that.....yes I will nibble on the kids chips but I won't eat a whole portion, yes I will have that glass of wine but just one or space it out - I want to enjoy my life and not refuse the coffee mornings or dinner parties any more or worry about food all the time. My life from a young age has been consumed with food and I think it 's time I stopped and started to refocus my life. I don't expect this to happen over night of course but it's a start.

Sam:)

Back again. Kept busy with jobs around the house and running errands. Exercised for 30 minutes, cleaned the bathrooms, showered myself and had a lunch of left over vegie pasta and yoghurt. Cooked dinner early made a lentil soup, busy afternoon with kids so won't get in till late tonight so as not to be tempted by takeaway. Dessert will be an orange again and a herbal tea.
Looking forward to watching my ABC show's tonight I've missed it the last fortnight.
Take Care All
Sam:)

Hey Sam,

I wish I was as strong willed as you. I find that when I'm on Cohen's I can follow it but when I'm left to my own devices, even though I know that I'm only sabotaging myself I just can't restrict myself. I guess maybe because I didn't get to the refeed and thus know the rules for the life after cohens. This time however I plan on getting there in one piece. Then I too hopefully will be as strong as you and be able to trust myself being able to eat just a few chips and not a whole portion etc.

Thanks for the motivational posts Sam they do mean a lot to me.

Night

Faithie

Hi Faithie

You'll get there eventually Faithie, I am by no means perfect and I know at the moment I am very focused but there will come a day where I know I will lose the plot and all my good intentions will sail out the window and that is coming nearer......if you catch my drift.......YES!!!!! that dreaded time of the month, where someone else enters my body and makes me manic and uncontrollable in every possible way.
My hubby cringes my kids must hate me at this time - it doesn't take much to set me off and I find sanctuary in food, especially chocolate.

Hi again I disappeared to the gym there for awhile the vibration machines are so good I and can feel myself getting stronger and the workout easier, the instructor is going to increase my times next time. The other great thing is you only do 15 minutes each time, it's not taking up your whole day.

So where was I ......um yes TOM well this time I am ready and waiting to try and combat their effects. HOPE it works.

Anyway woke up feeling lousy today I think it's because of TOM!!!!! approaching.
I am very anxious at the moment and I am finding it hard to relax going to bed late has not helped either. Ever since I took those diet pills my whole system has been screwed up, and it feels like I have constant heartburn. I only took them for aobut 3 days. Lesson learnt here check woith your Doctor first before doing anything like this.

Anyway will catch up with the rest of the forum tonight.

See ya
Sam:)

Hi Sam

Ohhh that time of month.. gee I hate that the week before I'm so strong willed the week after the same but for some reason the first 2 days I'm like a person possessed. Just ask my family... LOL

I read that your going to the gym for only 15 minutes what sort of gym is it?

Sounds good..... we have a place called Curves up here, was thinking of taking a look see...

Faithie

Well just a quick entry I need to get my weight loss sleep....hehehe!!!!!
Dinner was a stirfry prawn and vegie dish and an orange lots of water and herbal tea.
Oh...and a yoghurt for pm tea.

My PMT cravings have started people not good craving choccie and general rubbish, being on this forum has diverted my mind so far.

Faithie I will answer your question tomorrow and catch up on everyone else's post's.
I was too busy today.

Sweet dreams everyone.

Sam:)

Hi everyone

I had a lovely coffee morning with Mum's from our School. I enjoyed a fruit tart and a latte. Breakfast was a piece of fruit and a cup of hot water.

After coffee I did some retail therapy and did lot's walking. Lunch was left over prawn and vegie stirfry with lots of water.

I haven't planned dinner yet but I have had my treat today so tonight may be a salad with a little fish. It is School break up for us today here so kids may have a treat tonight.

Faithie -The exercise programme I attend is called "Whole Body Vibrations" WBV.
They have a website. Just type the name into google and it should come up I attend the one at Hawthorne. It will give all the info about it.

Bye for now

Sam:)

My food update.

For dinner I had a 2 pieces of wholemeal bread with chicken,salad and mayo (1 vegie springroll) sneaked it from my son's plate. No dessert i had that for morning tea.

Tea and water. At the moment I am experiencing terrible headaches this alway happens prior to my P's arriving. So have had a couple of panadol.

That is me. I will check back here tomorrow.

Sam:)

Hi Sam
I see you're sorta in the same position as me...but a bit ahead....I don't know how to get the ball rolling! I always say...tomorrow and ....you know the rest of the story...we all do!
A word of advice for anyone on cohens (i swear by it!):
20-30 grams of bran plus or all bran for breaky (EVERY DAY) with some grated apple & yoghurt and you'll be going like a trouper (give it time...around about 4 - 7 days to get your system happening) constipation is extremely bad for your health...my cohen adviser told me to take bran/dates and said it is a very common problem with the cohen lifestyle!!!
Do you mind me asking...what your goal weight is and how far away from it you are?
cheers

Bran plus for breakfast! On Cohen's? Recommended by a Cohen's "advisor"?
Goes against everything I've been told, even on maintenance. No carb's for breakfast is one of the key recommendations after reaching goal.
Hi Sam!! How's life? xo Cate

Hi Cherub:D

Today I lost 200g:p. I am happy with this result especially since my TOM is nearing and I have so far stuck to a healthy eating and exercise plan.

My ideal goal weight is 60kg.:D
I am currently 68.6kg.
On refeed i managed to get down to 63kg but no more.
Thanks also for the all bran hint.

Up early this morn the kids have friends over to play. Made a quich for the lunch it was yummy and lowfat.

I didn't do Cohens at all today. So yes I know I will be paying for this later.
I am away this weekend and usually I would be building myself up for drinking and eating out but this time my focus has changed, I am just looking forward to catching up with everyone and having time out from the kids.:jump:.....and having a bit of a lie in on Sunday morn:sleeping:.

Back Sunday and then out again Monday with kids friends and then my sister and family arrive for a week so i am really looking forward to showing them around our suburb. Who says School holidays is restful.:doh:

Anyway that is me I will report back either Sunday evening or Monday.
Have a wonderful weekend all and to all the Mum's out their who have the kids home for the holidays hope you keep it together food wise and don't get too stressed with them at home.:rofl:

Sam:beating:

Bran plus for breakfast! On Cohen's? Recommended by a Cohen's "advisor"?
Goes against everything I've been told, even on maintenance. No carb's for breakfast is one of the key recommendations after reaching goal.
Hi Sam!! How's life? xo Cate

Hi Cate

I am doing really well thank you. I know Cherub is going to cope a bit of backlash over her views - I have been here and seen it done before and it can get real nasty. I know Cohen's advises no carb's for breakfast but I have to admit I do have ceral on the odd occassion and at the moment I am on the all bran due to my cons....p :o you know the rest.

Variety is so improtant in a diet and people do tend to gain weight after diets due to this reason, which is why people tend to go back to WW and other programmes. Now I will probably get some backlash:argue:

But first and foremost we must remember this is an open forum for everyone to read and post, you do not need to be on Cohen's to access this thread and if we disagree with anything anybody says well you can delete ot not read it.

Cherub has admitted cohen's is a wonderful plan and she lost successfully but through her own admission she allowed herself to get back into old habits and regained it all plus more. This can happen with any diet.

I think we should support her as best we can just like we do for each other.
We may not agree with some of her ideas or anyone else's but we shouldn't judge and be vindictive about it.

Sorry about that Cate I wasn't pointing the finger at you or anyone in particuliar but I know how it is when you do this diet you get so focused and anyone that forms a contradictory opinion to Cohen's get's blasted. We are a loyal bunch. I put up my hand to doing this while on plan myself but I realised that it doesn't matter what other's say or do we know what is working for us and it is Cohens'.

Bye again all.

Sam

Hi Sam
It's interesting to know that there are other people who slip up after refeed. I know I will struggle with my weight for life, because I can't seem to stick to any healthy regime for more than 3 months at a time. As the years go by (I'm nearly 39) my body copes less and less with the unhealthy food (eg the yummy stuff that starts with ch) and I do make healthier choices more often now when out and about (subway rather than HJs)

We are in our new house now (was building it when last on cohen's) and hubby has planted heaps of vegies...looking forward to the whole family eating healthier!

TTOM can be tough, but from memory, cohen's food reduces symptoms? I can remember not gaining as much weight (a good trick is to not weigh anytime near TTOM if you can avoid it - then you don't even see the up-down thing happen and psychologically, that's a good thing!) You have done well to lose 200g!

Have a great weekend:)

PS
Thanks so much for your support, we must have posted at the same time!
Yes, gentle advice /inoffensive opinions are welcome but outright criticism belongs in the school yard!

Here's a link to my diary from last year....I'm about to read it myself for some inspiration http://weight-loss.fitness.com/weight-loss-diary/5261-cherubs-cohen-countdown.html

People I weighed in today as well and I have lost a further 800grams........yesterday I was clogged and had been suffering from the "C" word for quiet a number of weeks and even though I could see I was slimming down in other parts of my body......my stomach was just continually bloated and sore. BUT this morning that changed after visiting the loo;)
It is amazing what a difference it makes when your body is functioning properely:D
I won't say what I ate to acheive this because it isn't part of the Cohen's plan:(

So I have acheived a 1kg loss this week bringing my weightg down to 67.8kg so now I have another 7.8kg to lose to reach my goal of 60kg.

Enjoy the weekend all

Well my excitement has worn off since my last post........ my TOM has arrived and so has the sugar gravings and I am sorry to say I have not been good.

Why is it this time of the month makes all your hard work and good intentions fly out the window.

I am not going to lose sight of the big picture though and all I can do is pick myself up and go back on plan once my tom has finished.

I hope everyone had a great weekend and is making some super loss's
Unable to read everyone's post's due to School holidays and having my sister come for a holiday but will tune back in once all is settled here.

All the best

Sam:)

Hi again everyone :jump:

I'm back and touching base. The reason for my absence is due to over indulging over the holidays. But I"m here once again. All roads lead to Cohen's.:rotflmao:

My last post mentioned my TOM and how it totally side tracked me, well I have had advice to take a chromium tablet with a magnesium tablet and this should help to combat the hunger (reduces the sugar cravings). I have just started this combo so will let you know whether it works or not.

So I'm back and struggling to resist all those deadly but temping foods:eek2: and hoping to reach my goal before the end of year. I have upped the exercise and now do walking, 2xvibes sessions and the ellipitical machine the other days.

I have had lots of social events occurring or occurred so it does not make for easy dieting.......but I will perservere........I have no choice really.:rolleyes:

Hope everyone is doing well and keeping on track. Goodluck to all.:hug2:

Sam:jump:

My TOM started today - But I also made a 2.9kg loss. Kids home today due to a student free day so haven't exercised hope to do some tonight if I am not to0 exhausted. Will check in here again tonight.

Sam:)

Absoulutely exhausted today very heavy tom, busy with kids all day ironed till late and eventually went to bed around midnight then my youngest woke, he had wet the bed and wasn't feeling well so his home today and i am taking him to the Doctor's.

I don't know if I can fit in exercise today with the way I feel but will see how it all goes.
The other thing is I am totally constipated again (sorry) and I am taking Physilum but still finding it difficult any one got any ideas?

Will tune back later better go get him ready.......hopefully this foum will pick up so I can read how everyone else is going.

Take care all

Sam:)

Welcome back Sam...

Good to see you are still checking in and doing well!

L x

Thanks Lauren

I've just posted in your diary, welcome to you as well.

Well everything went well today, still to tired to exercise but I am not putting too much pressure on myself. I should feel better by Friday TTOM should be nearly over and the headaches that go with them. It's funny how my cycle changes from month to month - one month I suffer PMT quiet severely but I have a lighter P and the following like now is heavy with these headaches. It must be due to aging I'm sure of it. Us poor women suffer!!!!!

Anyway glad to see there are a few more post's today. It was a ghost forum here for awhile, it looks like I will have to check out this other forum.

Happy losing all

Sam:)

Busy day. Hot day here in Brissie as well. Had a chicken salad for dinner no carbs at all.
Feeling a bit better today. I have a bbq on the weekend so this will be my next challenge. I have been drinking lots of sparkling water of late as well -I'm a bit over the low calorie drinks now. I checked out the other forum but haven't registered I'll stick here and just go back and forth to read everyones progress.

I bought a dress off the rack today they had a size 10 and 12 left so opted for the 12, I didn't have time to try it on so that"s my treat for doing well with my loss's.

Bye for now

Sam:)

Well I've just got back from the bbq I mentioned in my last post. I did okay had some meat and salad a glass and a half of wine and a little dessert and lots of water. I am not going to torture myself anymore one day isn't going to kill me and tomorrow I will go back on plan.

I have also found that I can't eat as much as I used to.......so that is definitely a good thing. Anyway I am exhausted and hubby has fallen asleep on the lounge so will check back tomorrow evening.

Sweet dreams to all.

Sam:)

Sam, Try Bekunis Tea for the big C. It works for me without any uncomfortable side-effects. I had it morning & night in Melb as I was eating way too much. You buy it in the supermarket & it's next to the medicines (paracetemol etc). It's nicer if you combine it with a herbal tea bag. Welcome back to the forum. You were my original motivator when I started in here. I don't seem to connect or relate in the other forum for some reason so stay here & visit a couple of diaries-Kath & Suzie Slim in particular. Cheers for now, Cate.

Hi Cate

I know what you mean. I think the format here is more appealing. Thanks for your kind words I will keep posting here on and off. I am still going well I lost another 200gms this week. Easy does it for me. I also haven't been well of late so I haven't really got back into the exercise. I had my first bit of carbo yesterday it was rice I am only having once day. I will also try out the Bekunis tea you recommend.

I'll go check out the other posts now.

Sam:)

Well today I was at home looking after my 5yo he was up during the night feeling ill etc.
So he has just had a massive sleep which is very unusual for him.....so he must be sick.
Couldn't get him into see the Doctors today they were fully booked. I am just giving him nuerofen and painstop. I will see how everything pans out tonight/tomorrow.

Speaking of tomorrow I am having a weekend away at my sisters and the boys and their Dad are off to a bbq, so I do hope he is feeling well enough for that or else I will try and get him into Doctor's tomorrow before I leave. You can't make plans with children.

Tomorrow is also my 17 wedding anniversay......where have the years gone? We were unable to get a babysitter so are having a night out the following weekend.

Well people it is good to see a few more post here. I really do like this forum and even though i am an infrequent visitor it feels such a haven each time I do return especially when I need that well deserved kick in the you know what to get me motivated again.

Have a glorious weekend everyone and will check back in here monday after my weigh in.

Sam:)

Congratulations Sam on your 17th wedding anniversary & thank you very much for your kind, reassuring words in my diary. Have a lovely week-end & hope your young one is feeling better soon, xo Cate

Well I forgot to weigh this morning.......which is probably not such a bad idea after my weekend away. I did eat things i normally wouldn't like toast for breakfast and bread also for lunch. I don't usually eat any bread anymore I find it makes me bloated and gives me a tummy ache, but I had no reactions this time.

The weather here in Brissie has been wet and unseasonly cool and this morning I woke craving porridge.....I know it's not advised but I had a bowl and it was yum. Lunch was vegetable samoosa's (I know what your all thinking) and for dinner it was a lentil and lamb casserole with rice. It's been along time since I deviated so I am not stressing I will get back on the wagon again.

Thanks Cate I am looking forward to our celebrating this weekend. I have posted in your diary as well.

Take care all

Sam:)

Hi again to all.

My little boy is still unwell and was up and down all night. I managed to get him into another Doctors yesterday seeing ours was fully booked out again. He has an infected ear that started off as a viral infection so he has been prescribed ear drops as opposed to antbiotics which is what he was on less then a fortnight ago for the same ear.
We put so much faith in Doctors and sometimes they are not always correct. This may also explain his unruley behaviour at School lately........he has just had a major temper tantrum (which is also unusual) so I sent him to his room and eventually closed his door and then 5 minutes later it was quiet.......he was fast asleep in his bed......poor angel.

So suffused to say I have not stuck to any sort of eating plan today....but I have also stayed away from my comfort foods like choccie, biscuits....the sweets.

I think I may go get 40 winks while his asleep......I have several loads of iroining to do but might tackle this tonight after the kids are in bed. My older boy also has a soccer match tonight so I to have juggle what to do their - I don't think my youngest (who is sick) will tolerate this. Sorry for dribbling on about all this. I am just tired and worried.

Hope everyone else is having a wonderful day.

Sam:)

Oh Sam, I hope he's better soon. I do feel for you. What a battle. Look after yourself won't you. Hopefully it will be your turn soon for a little TLC, xo Cate

Thanks Cate

He slept for 3+ hours. And my hubby came home early and took our oldest boy to soccer. Yes I am ready for some tlc. Well I am off to due my little ones ear drops and tackle that tedious job.....ironing.

I also confess to caving and having some choccie today. Thats my bad.

Goodnight all

Sam:)

Today I kept my youngest at home again......especially after his big sleep yesterday, better to be safe then sorry. He is fine today so he will definitely go to School tomorrow.

Today I baked a batch of scones I gave some to my neighbours they are in their 90's and grow thier own veg and they are always giving some to me so I feel good returning the favour even though insist they don't expect anything in return. So I had some for my breakfast. (NOT A GOOD START TO THE DAY) I know.

I think once my little one is back to School I can return to my normal healthy eating.
I feel a bit overwhelmed by the mess in the house so I tackeled that today and managed to finish the ironing (finally) and then cleaned the lounge which looked like a bomb had hit it and I will make sure the bedrooms and bathrooms are all completed by the end of the week.

Will look back here tonight.

Sam:)

Hi Sam, pleased to hear your little man is better & that you are feeling brighter as well. Hopefully we're both back on track! Cheers, Cate.

Hi all

Yes my little man went back to School today.......he was glad to see all his mates. I went and had coffee with some Mum's afterwards and I enjoyed a bit of grown up time.
I spent the rest of the day cleaning his room, paperwork and veged as well. I have been a bit tired lately and have also been suffering with pains in my leg which have been going on awhile now so must get that looked at...at some stage.

I have just put the kids to bed and I won't be far behind them......I enjoy my time either on the net or watching a bit of TV once they have settled. Hubby is dining with work collegues tonight.

Well people as you know I haven't been sticking to too much of a healthy eating plan this week but I am very well aware that I can't keep this up for another week......Saturday hubby and I are dining out for our anniversary which was (actually) last Saturday but we have a babysitter booked for this weekend. Hubby and I don't spend much couple time anymore since having the kids.....most of the time we don't mind.......after all we did have 9 years together before they arrived and we do love them desperately so we have no complaints, but also in saying that.... sometimes we can become a bit complacent and not do the going out thing due to time,effort and money. Well anyway after that SUNDAY will become "D Day" for me and back on plan so I am psyching myself up and will make sure I have all the appropriate foods in the house.

I won't even tell you what I ate today ****it was drastic**** but Sunday it is for me.
I hope everyone is doing great with their weight loss.

By the way it will be nearly a year since I found Cohens:) Time sure flies.

Sam:)

Today I woke at 5am and couldn't go back to sleep. I had a restless night waiting for hubby to get home which was just after midnight.
I also had a scratchy throat and have been taking panadol throughout the day and even managed a sleep.
Food wise I haven't eaten too much......but what I have has been carb loaded (enough said).

SUNDAY is my day of diet....NO......weight management rebirth.....this sounds better.
I wish at times I could get a handle on this one area of my life........I see other Mum's and they are so slim and toned.....I queried other Mum's at our coffee morning one day and the reply was THESE MUM'S DON"T "EAT". I wish I could NOT EAT...but I love food too much.

Well have a good weekend all......it's been a bit quiet here again except for Cate and I would be nice to hear from other Cohenites old and new.

Keep safe all
Sam:)

Just got in from our night out for our 17th Anniversary........I am amazed everytime I type it in here, like Cate mentioned in her diary regarding her hubbys birthday it doesn't seem that long....you wonder where the time goes.

Anyway we had a lovey thai dinner we brought doggie bags home. We went to the movies after, we saw Elizabeth the Golden age.....I thought it was going to be riveting but unfortunately it wasn't I loved Elizabeth and I especially love the Betty Davis version but this one was missing that certain something. I must admit I nearly fell asleep...I was up early again today and tackled the house work (had to have a clean house for the babysitter) organise the kids baths etc and info for the BSitter.
Tomorrow I am looking forward to a lazy Sunday and a lie in.

Sunday I will get back into proper eating mode cut out the carbs,increase the water and all that. The first day is always the hardest if I can just get through this one hopefully it will be smooth sailing. My TOM is here as well.....Agh!!!!.

Will catch up on the rest of forum tomorrow.....I'm off to my bed.

Goodnight All

Sam:)

Hi Sam

Sorry I haven't been about but the internet connect here and at work has been playing havoc. You load up the page write everything in and when you submit it eats it all and puts it into space somewhere because the internet connection just cuts in and out every few seconds.

Just reading back on your posts from the last couple of days - not eating is not the answer... At the end of the day these women may look great now but after a while there bodies will just shut down or be more suseptible to illness and disease because they dont get any nutrients or nourishment they require. Just try to stay focused on healthy and wholesome eating. Maybe get some food magazines like super food ideas and look through and cook a different recipe from there every night etc or use the recipes on the taste website under low carb and low fat etc. Maybe it's just variety you need to make the healthy choices more appealing. I'm writing this now because once I'm finished I may just need to come back and look at it myself. It's probably easy for me to say it because I'm at the stage of the program I am but I really do hope it's something I will take on a do once I'm finished. With your snacks if you have a muffin maybe just cut it in half and throw the other half away straight away or do what Suzie (cant remember her last name but she's a aussie tv personality and has her own morning show now) did when she was out at a cafe or restaurant and have half and cover the other half in salt so you cant finish it anyway - just until you get into the habit of have a smaller portion and dont want any more.

I hope some of this may of helped. If nothing else you are still conscience of the effects and feeling that go with food and working through that is always the answer. Unfortunately like most things its all in our heads and it's hard after years of 1 thing to reprogramme ourselves to do something different. If only we had a microchip we could just go and get changed or upgraded!

Anyway - good luck today and remember you're doing this for you!

Take care and stay postive.

Lauren

Thanks for that Lauren. It's funny how you know all this but having it pointed out you from someone else really does bring the point across more so. I have actually been buying and perusing cookbooks recently and trying out different recipes. I need to teach my kids proper eating choices......it benefits the whole family in the long term.

Well today I had a lie in, I still woke at 5pm checked on the kids...... my little one came in for a cuddle and I went out for it again. Woke just before nine had a shower and I am having a cup of green tea. I haven't forgotten that today is "D Day" I will go and have my breakfast shortly i am all planned (I hope) no seriously.... I find after having a few days of eating whatever I want I get bloated, tired and irritable......and this morning is especially bad due to that TOM. I feel like going and lying down and just resting for the whole day. Yesterday was such a full on day I think I dseserve it.

Hubby is taking the kids out so I might just do that.....and read my book:).
I will weigh myself tomorrow......I know I won't be pleased but it's all of my own doing...so I shouldn't complain. It's amazing what a difference a week can make in not eating correctly. So here I go again.... as long as I don't drift out of the 60'skg mark that is my objective.... when i see 70 on the scales I know this is a NO go zone and I have to nip things in the bud.

LAUREN please take my advice here when you finish refeed don't do what I did. Now I didn't go back into my old habits of eating, mine was gradual and the weight creeped back on over a period of time. So I wished I'd listened to my Cohens consultant....she said eat Cohens friendly during the week and have small treats on the weekends but basically eat the Cohens way. It's all about sensibility and portion contol and exercise of course.

Will go check out the other posts now after I have my breakfast of course.

Sam:)

Just checking in to say I got through my day successfully....Yeah!!!!!!
I feel so much better by putting fresh fruit and veg into me. I had a stir fry for dinner and I couldn't even finish it. So that is me for tonight. Will check in again tomorrow.
I am actually deciding weather to weigh or not tomorrow I know I've gained and I am also extremely bloated from my TOM.......I will see how I feel tomorrow.

Gosh this weekend has gone fast - hope everyone had a great one.
Goodnight all.
Sam:)

Well as it turned out I forgot to weigh anyway, I only remembered after I'd had breakfast. No worries will make next Monday weigh in day I will feel alot better anyway.

I woke fairly sluggish......about 5am (again) and their was a hot air balloon literally outside our bedroom I had to blink a few times and thought it must be my imagination but then I heard them blow the hot air into balloon. We live high up and I have seen them on the odd occassion but not so close to the houses.

All good here on the eating front no deviations and drinking lots of fluids. Lots of xmas functions coming up and I have had one sprung on me for this Friday.....I am not sure how to handle it I've just back on to plan and we were only informed of it today.

I will let you all know how I go before the weeks through.

Check in later tonight.

Sam:)

Hi Sam

WOW - What an amazing site to wake up to!!!

Are you back following strict Cohens, refeed Cohens or Cohen's Guidelines? Maybe just treat Friday night and the other Christmas functions coming up as you would your last 1-2 days of refeed re: if you want to have a wine exchange each glass for a carb serve and stay away from anything that looks too processed or sugar loaded.

This is a very hard time of year for everyone I believe when it comes to food, alcohol and weight control. Even my 'skinny friends' who have always been slim and have the behaviour of a slim person struggle. A lot of what is served around this time of year is just processed, packaged and deep fried quick and easy nibbles which can be frustrating for all who choose to live a healthy lifestyle.

Maybe have a yoghurt and fruit smoothie before you to help fill you up and keep you feeling full and then just make sure your acknowledge that feeling so you dont over consume. I will PM you a great pre-party smoothie recipe I have found and am looking forward to using myself over the coming silly season!

Have a great day.

Lauren x

Hi Lauren

I started my reply yesterday and then got sidelined by the kids and homely duties.

Yes I am following the Cohens guidelines. I have actually bought a diet ebook which is very similiar to cohens.............the only difference is their is more choice of foods. You still have to eat fairly plain food like cohens but because you have more variety it isn't so much of a struggle. I am actually enjoying this way eating.....no carbs are allowed and I haven't missed any of them. If you are interest in learning more I can give a more detailed account of the eating plan in your private mail box.

i don't want to turn any newbies off the Cohens way of eating but this is actually a great lifestyle way of eating after cohens and you lose weight on it as well.

So everything has been going great eating well incorperating all the good natural foods and drinking lots of water and feeling very good. I met with some Mum's for a coffee today and I opted for a black coffee with a little milk on the side so I added only a teaspoon (if that) to my coffee (no sugar) I never take sugar in my tea or coffee anyway.......it was lovely I was on a buzz for awhile....drank lots of water after that.

The only thing I haven't been doing is exercising. But on a bright note I am back on track in the toilet department again:)Yipee!!!!!
Weigh in Monday I will have to leave myself a reminder for that morning. No functions this weekend so no temptation.....thank goodness!!!!.

Will check back in here again tomorrow. Have a wonderful weekend all.

Sam:)

:Hurray:Well here I am again people 5kg's lost just over 3 weeks. I was doing something different to lose weight for 2 weeks lost 3kg and then I went on a splurge:blush5: for a week and didn't weigh for that week and then i started eating properely again and ........viola!!!!another 2 kg gone. So I am now at 67kg but would love to get back to about 63-65kg.
Just an update on my weight I reached 63kg after refeed and then slowly gained 9kg:flame: back over a period of 6/7 months.


So I would need to lose ideally another 4/5kg. I am eating Cohen friendly foods with some added extra's but the only difference is that I am spacing it out every couple of hours so I am not feeling so hungry inbetween.....and this has worked a treat. I am also incorporating cashews,peanuts etc I went shopping today and had this to nibble on while I shopped and had my bottled water. [/COLOR

[COLOR="DarkGreen"]]For those of you who will probably find this post of mine undermining the Cohens way of eating well here's just a friendly reminder that I had completed refeed back in March and since then I have been trying to find a balanced way of eating socially and at home in a healthy and balanced manner for the rest of my life. This has been no easy fate. I have yoyoed with my weight since completing Cohens and have diarised this through this forum close to a year now.

As we all know to maintain the weight after losing is sometimes the hardest part of this journey.........and I have been trying to Maintain my ideal weight range since finishing on Cohens.......so I have gone back on Cohens with some variations to accomadate exercise and then I've fallen off the wagon time after time.....and then I tried another diet (NOT COHENS):blush5: with success but for only a short period and then I got irritable and hunger struck and also got constipated so I stopped this. So since then I have been on a similiar Cohens friendly diet which has worked a treat (for me)..... no hunger I eat 6 small meals every 2+ hours drink lots of water. No carbs allowed at all. But you do have more variety to choose from. So I am pretty happy with it. I have been following this new eating regime for 10 days come tomorrow. I will then take a little break only because I have some functions coming up over the next fortnight and as we all know eating healthy out is not an easy job....but I'm aiming to be as sensible with my food choices as I can.

Well people my aim from now until xmas:santa: is to lose those 4/5kg:jump: Well that is me.
Hope everyone else had a nice weekend.

Sam:D

WELL DONE SAM!!!!

At the end of the day what you have written has really just reitterated that everything in moderation mantra that 'slim people' live by. But I think what we forget is that we are now actually slim people now too and that's what we do need to make our mantra. If we eat healthily and happily for the majority of the time we can have the confidence that when we go out or have a function we can relax and be empowered by the selections we choose then.

I really do believe that they key for me is going to be getting straight back on the wagon per-say after the function / event / splurge. What I fear for myself is going out to something of an evening and then just being in the frame of mind that it was just one night so maybe I will just treat myself again today and be back on my yoghurt and salads tomorrow. Everyday when I wake up I need to have the same conscience thoughts of what I want, how I want to feel etc.

I also truely believe that this is now where the hard stuff starts. Looking back the last 7 months really hasn't been that hard. To lose the weight it's been a smooth process. Now, well from Sunday morning, I am challenged everyday whether it is by my surrounding, family and friends or myself.

Lauren

Hi Sam, I would be interested in knowing the difference between the Cohen's maintenence guidelines & the eating plan you are trying. I agree with Lauren that the weight-loss part of the program is the easier part. It's black and white whereas this after re-feed stage is tricky. Thanks for all your encouragement re my interview. I feel that I did really well & felt great. Cheers for now, Cate.

Just a quick check in and update. We have just returned from Carols in the Park it rained of course. But the kids had fun.

Well I have had quiet a traumatic day and evening (last night.) My eldest boy who is very sweet natured and at times shy is being bullied by one of the boys in his class.
He was very agitated after School yesterday and complained in a round about way of this boy teasing everyone and him.....I asked what does he do and he said "kicks me in the private spot, and follows him around the playground taunting him and hurting".
Now this boy had been teasing my son earlier in the year and I went in and told the teacher and things appeared to get better. My son has been so distressed by this kid that he has started to pull out his eye lashes. I can't tell you how furious I was last night I had little or no sleep, and I said to hubby I'm pulling him out of that School (that was the irrational me talking) I was so hurt and upset for my boy.
Today I got up early spoke to my son and said I am coming to talk to his teacher and Principal, he was happy with this. I told him he is such a brave boy for facing up to this situation with minimum fuss.......I said to his Dad even though this boy has been harrassing him he has never once said "Mum I don't want to go to School". He broke my heart as well when he said "Mum....he hurts me sometimes but I hold my tears in" .....as you can tell I am still so emotional. Anyway the outcome of this story is a positive one the School had the boy in the office all day today and had contacted his parents that this was the boys final warning (he is a repeat offender you see) it's not just my boy he picks on, his punishement last week for punching a girl was to write lines at the office....what the....in my day you got detention or worse expelled or even worse the cane. Kids are given to many chances today and those that are doing the right thing seem to have to suffer the consequences....it's just not right. Well I will monitor the next fortnight and see how my son goes.....I said to his teacher as well that if I have to come into the Class for the next fortnight just to see my son is safe then I will do so. Anyway my son was much more relaxed when he got home and was not his usual agitated self. Suffuse to say I couldn't eat last night went to bed agitated and my stomach churning.

Today I had a luncheon date with friends.....I could have just cancelled that but we have put this off several times already. I had my yogi and fruit this morning and for lunch had steak with a salad,1 glass of sparkling wine,some bread and a coffee. Tonight I wasn't really that hungry but hubby got me a kebab while out at the carols....we walked so hopefully I have burned up some of those calories. Tomorrow I have a coffee morning, but I will not eat any carbs at all. Well people I am fading here time for my bed and I hope to have a more rested sleep.

Cate I have answered you in your diary. And I will give some info on that eating plan soon.

Goodnight all
Sam:)

today i didn't make coffee morning, School stuff happened. My boy had a better day so, so far so good.

I haven't been hungry since all this occured but have forced myself to eat. Today I ate
Breakfast: Yoghurt and green tea and water.(running late so no fuit)
morning tea: nibbled on cashews water etc
lunch: had a little roast chicken from woolies all flesh no skin.

nibbled on nuts, tea, diet lemonade. dinner a mince curry which I ate with a salad NO rice. Deviation today was snacking on my sons sour cream soya crisp and 2 cups of tea with a little milk.Too tired to go on will check back in here tomorrow.

Hope everyone is keeping well.
Goodnight all sweet dreams.

Sam:)

Checking here now....might not have time tonight, I am off to soccer and then dinner.
Todays menu:

Yoghurt
apple & skinny latte
Flak ice-cream:(
lots of water and green tea
nibbled on cashews.

I am away tomorrow but will check back in here Sunday evening.

Enjoy your weekend all.

Sam:)

Hi all

Back from my night at the coast for my neice's dance concert, it was fantastic but very long......my oldest boy came he did very well sitting out the whole thing, he didn't get to bed till after 11pm....and the rest of us was about 12.30am, we slept in till 10am the next morning. After breakfast and a quick chat we drove home for a neighbourhood xmas party......and we are all exhausted now. My youngest was upset last night because me and his big brother weren't their for him. So tonight it is early beds for all.
I did not stick to a proper eating plan.......but tomorrow it will be back on track and for the rest of the week except Friday....we have a xmas function on.

It is great to see a bit more actitvity here at the forum, I hope it improves even more.
Goodnight all,
Sam:)

Today I had my yoghurt in the morning and stuck to a no carbs day. But then a xmas hamper arrived for my hubby and they had chocolate galore fine quality too.......so I had 2 people:(.
I am not stressing though I ate well the majority of the day......this time of year is too hard but like I said before i am going to be sensible about it and take charge of what goes in my mouth.
I am drinking heaps of water but i must start exercising that is the key at the moment.LOSING.......I am sorry and happy to see you back. But this is the place to turn too for support and guidance.Goodluck.

Goodnight all
Sam:)

Hi Sam

I must have sounded a bit more negetive than I meant to. I am happy I popped in and I am really excited and a little nervous about the decision to have a tummy tuck - I think after all the hard work I deserve it. My hubby is 100% behind me.

It was so nice to see that you remembered me - I don't know how the others ended up going - I haven't spoken with Di78.

Cohens has done great things for me - I'm just like any other woman who now has to watch what I eat - but I weigh a whole lot less than I did before so that is a good thing.

Have a great day.
Losing

LOSING

How could I forget you......you were one of my main motivators. It's good to see you back and yes keeping the weight off is a lifetime (I don't want to say struggle) I don't want to be so negative this early....but yes management and planning is what I've found to keep myself focused.

By the way this forum has been very quiet of late and we haven't had much angst (the water thread) this is the first for a long time, I just ignore them.

I ususally don't check in this early but I can't seem to sleep in anymore. If I wake early tomorrow i will need to go for a walk.

I'll be back later all.

Sam:)

Sam

That is lovely to hear that I helped motivate,,,,,,

I would normally ignore as well - been done that path before....


You sound like you are doing so well - it is a conscious decision to watch what goes in your mouth - however I have found it not as hard as I thought. Unlike my previous body this one doesn't seem to like the things it used to and I am not even up for a big night on a bottle or red. Which is a good thing.......

I saw photos of wishes -who used to pop in sometimes when I was around and she looks amazing.

Talk soon
S:seeya:

hey sharon aka losing

has been so long hey

well so much has happened since we last have spoken

james and i seperated and i tell ya that dont do good things for our eating plans,

so as we speak i am still trying to lose weight
i want to lose the weight i gained from the seperation but in the last few days i have already lost a few kilos so is all good. I didnt gain too much but am wanting to get down to 58 kilo's still
so i will keep you updated.. love ya
di

Hi Di78

I am so sorry to hear about your seperation. Hows your little girl?
I have left a private message for Losing to let her know you've left a message for her.

Well this forum has been a hub of activity recently.....it's gone from a ghost town to a buzzying metropolis. I especially loved the water thread.....it's along time since anyone outside the Cohens programme has posted anything, it gave me a chuckle.

Well straight to the point I have not been good.....I had a glass of wine and some choccies yesterday....but not excessive. No excuses I hear you all say....but it is done now and lets move on.

I am stressed a bit at the moment and it is all due to a neightbour who has been stalking me (there is not other word for it). She is a planning freak and wants to socialise with me and is always calling so that our kids can meet up nearly everyday.
It all started when we moved here the beginning of March. She had a neighbourhood get together on our first week here and it hasn't stopped. The first sign of anything strange is when she found out another Mum an I have coffee morning on a Thursday (which is the only day this Mum can do it because she works) and then she invited herself along......and then the next thing I knew she had orgainsed the whole class to do this as a weekly coffee morning on this same day. She then kept pestering me to do things with her....I did attend one function and I just felt so uncomfortable.....she puts on alot of air and graces about herself and we are so different. We have invited her family her for drinks and nibbles when we first arrived and then she has invited herself at another time......but no reciperication from her side, not even a cup of tea when I have visited. Her husband is not to bad. I don't know what to do.....I was furious on the weekend she had called asking for our two younger sons to meet up and I said we had plans and then about 45minutes later her older boy is here playing on the boys Nintendo game.....I was leaving for the Coast when all this happened and my husband informed me the next day that he stayed for over an hour.
I don't mind her kids, it's just her. And I bumped into her yesterday and after that I was so agitated that I went home and ate chocolate.....and then i had the wine later.
I have even contemplated moving......when I told my hubby he went right off and said he would cut off all contact with them and would tell them so.......I said NO let me handle it in my own way........the thing is I have distanced myself from her but she doesn't seem to get the hint. WHAT DO I DO?

I have meet so many other lovely people in this community but like the saying goes "it takes on bad apple to spoil the.....(how does the rest go?)

Anyway I have to go now and pick up the kids. Bye all.

Sam:)

Hey Di

Long time - that's an understatement.

So sorry to hear about you and James. Are you still living nearby?? How is that baby (not so baby now) girl of yours.
I can't believe we are both looking at the same time?? Do you come here often???

Thanks for the pm Sam - hope you are not feeling as stressed - that is a hard situation. Get hubby to clean naked with the blinds open and she might avoid you. (or might not which could be a lot worse)

Have a good one
S:party:

My goodness

I have literally not left this computer, it is so addictive at the moment. So many old faces:party: have returned and this forum is humming once again. I have though managed to fit in the house cleaning and decorate the christmas tree.....which the boys were suppose to do instead they had decorations strewn everywhere, referee my 5yo and his friend while they played, supervise homework and make dinner.....I even fitted in a quick chat with Losing and Cate for all of 5 minutes. Whew!!!!!!

Now that was the positive news:) now for the:(not so good news.....I have not eaten well today guys or should I say I consumed to many carbs.
I went for breakfast with a friend and had 2xlatte,scrambled eggs with mushrooms and buttered ciabatta toast. No lunch. Dinner was fish and chips and 2x ice-cream splits. I fitted in a few liquor chocolates as well.
I am being honest:nopity:

I need to go shopping and buy my yoghurt, fruit and veg. I am not going to stress (like I have stated before):banghead: Life will go on.

Next Tuesday will be one year to date since I started Cohens. :hug2::jump:
Thank you Mr Cohen.

Thats me people, till tomorrow.......

Goodnight all - sweet dreams

Sam:waving:

Today I went Christmas and Birthday shopping...my dad's turning "80" on Saturday and it's hubby's in a few weeks. I got him this groovy dvd card from Myers with the birth dates on it depicting what world events occurred in that year. (not cheap mind you).

well people here is what I ate today:-
For breakfast i had porridge with peaches and for lunch it was a coffee and a sweet treat. Dinner was chicken curry with rice and 1&1/2 roti breads. Dessert was ice-cream split....only one tonight,2 choccie pringles and a cup of tea.
Tomorrow I have a Christmas dinner to go too. Saturday is my Dad's 80th and he is having lunch here......there will be cake people. Then there is only one week left of School and then we head off on our holidays.
This time of year is a challenge....I don't how I did it last year, I was so committed to Cohens this time last year it was my only thought.
.
I think I may stop writting in my diary until I come back from holidays......I am doing no one here any favours by posting all my deviations especially the newbies.
I will see how it all pans out. Well it is quiet in here tonight so I'll get ready for my bed. My hubby is in Perth tonight and I usually don't sleep when he is away so I watch TV late and read, check on the kids several times and then eventually go to sleep. My older son is giving me a bit of grief at the moment, I think it is end of year hyperness.
He says the boy who was picking on him has stopped.... but has moved on to someone else. I worry so much about my older boy as oppossed to my youngest, I do not know the reason why exactly....I rely on my older one so much more and he is their for me in flash but then he has this nervous thing going inside him as well....my little one is spoilt and he knows it, he is my baby, but he is much more casual about things. He doesn't stress over anything...except if the fridge or pantry is empty (he loves his food).
Its a conundrum when you have kids. You try and do the best for them but i suppose they don't see it....not at this young age anyway.
Well I'd better toddle off. Sweet deams all.

Sam:)

I think I spoke a bit to soon about this forum being a hub.....it has quieten down again.
Yesterday....I had another bad day at the School,I won't go into details but this term has not been easy sailing.......I can't wait for it to be over. Came home hang the washing out and my neighbour (not the nosey one) asked me for a coffee she is a lovely lady she relaxed me...her kids are our babysitters. Lovely kids so polite and mature for their 15 years. (Their twins).

Met another friend for a late lunch, then went and picked the kids up from School.....they had a friend coming over for a playdate. My youngest was a bit temperamental...he didn't like his big brother playing with his mate....so there were tanties being thrown. Anyway took the friend home and reminded them that Mummy was going out for a xmas dinner and that the babysitter would be here shortly.....Daddy was in WA and flying in tonight. Oh my gosh it was a stressy evening.....they were both high as a kite and at each other. I gave them dinner and went and had my shower and they started a food fight......well by this stage I was ready not to go.. the baby sitter was due in 15 minutes and I wasn't ready and then my mobile and home line went at the same time....took my mobile it was a Mum wanting to know if I wanted to walk she lives around the corner.....I informed her she could come with me and I was picking up another mum as well. Mean while my oldest boy had picked up the other phone and had informed me it was the (nosey neighbour)....I got even more agravatted when I heard this.....so picture this I am running around with wet hair, towel wrapped around me and trying get the boys to settle down and clean up their food fight in the kitchen....and so when I rang her back I just yelled at her.....you see I knew she was wanting a lift or something. She could of walked it's only around the corner.
Listen people it is not in my nature to be nasty and I treat everyone the same, I am a giver not a taker, but this lady has taken advantage of my good nature over the months.
I think I have reached my limit now with her now. So anyway I managed to get dressed but my hair was another story I didn't have time to do anything just comb it back wet and as for make up well lipstick was it.

I did end up having a good time, I made sure I didn't sit next to her though. The other thing was she didn't like sitting in the back seat of the car she wanted the front I had to explain it was for another person who is elderely.

Anyway people thanks for hearing me out. I hope to have a better day today it's my Dad's 80th and we are having him and Mum over.....so I had better get hoppin.

Sam:)

Hi all

quiet in here again. I forgot to post in my diary last night. Busy weekend... posted all about it in Cate's diary though (sorry Cate).

Last week of School the kids did not want to go today. I didn't either, especially since hubby has started his holidays and was still in bed. Oh no....his just received a call and his off to Sydney instead. That changes all my plans for today...... Cest la vie.

We have been planning a week off so he and I can have together while the kids are still at School. This is that week.....I suppose we will have 3 days now as oppossed to a week.

A bit down now but will check back again here later. It is a busy week with School functions as well.

Take care all.

Bye for now

Sam:)

Sam, I have not been ignoring your plight but have been giving it lots of thought. What I do these days is wait until I'm absolutely certain that someone really wants my advice. I find that often when I'm asked my opinion (by my DIL or a friend) that mostly people only want me to say what they want to hear or want to do anyway. If you were asking me what I would do in the same situation I will tell you what I would do. This may not be what you want to do though.
I would ring your neighbour & ask to visit her when there is no-one else about, including children. I would think carefully about what you want to happen (or not happen any more) & tell her truthfully how you feel. No dropping hints, just the truth.
I think it sounds like you are under a lot of stress & she may be part of the problem. It may also be that it sometimes is easier to direct your feelings towards an outside source, rather than looking elsewhere.
I am no psychologist but have benefited from visiting one this year for the first time. It sounds like you have lots of pressures & stresses. Having young children & a husband who is away a lot working sounds stressful in itself.
I guess what I am saying is try to work out if it is really her driving you crazy at the moment or a combination of different things. If you think it's her have a word with her honestly. If not, have a chat anyway & ask for some space & less pressure.
Whatever you do look after yourself. I actually care what happens in people's lives. I did not have much outside support when my children were young & I think it's one of the toughest jobs in the world, being a parent. Give yourself some slack & take some time for the 2 of you as well as your kids.
I think being honest is the most important thing. If you talk to your neighbour, tell her the truth about how you are feeling & she doesn't like it- TOUGH!
You can disregard everything I say but I have found saying how you feel (calmly if you can) has been the best way for me & that's all any of us can ever do. I can't tell you what you should do. Only you can make that decision.
If you want to pm me please do. I'll help if I can. xo Cate

Thanks for that Cate.

i actualyy did respond to your message last night but some how it got in a tangled mess and i didn't know how to fix it and I was too tired to try so I deleted it.
I will send you a pm later if I have time so I can discuss it with you further. I have my sons final indoor soccer game tonight and then the break up party.....so we will be home late.

Cate this women is the reason for my manic stress.......YES I get stressed with my family but every mother does to some degree but I don't lose sleep over it. This women is ringing and harrassing me. I am not alone in this I have got feed back from other Mum's.

We are going on holidays next week and I am so looking forward to just getting away for 3 weeks and from the neighbourhood......and this not like me I love my home and my family time just relaxing with the kids at home.....just like I am now with them watching TV and me on here.

I will talk to you about it later. I hope you are okay Cate.....I really shouldn't be burdening you with my worries when you are about to start your new job, but I do appreciate you advice. Thank you.

Sam:)

Hi Sam, I would imagine you are a great Mum! It does sound like you need to front this woman & tell her the truth about how you feel about her harrassment. It sounds awful! It is not fair to you & your family. Having small children is so demanding in itself, without outside pressure. I remember it well & wouldn't like to go back to that time. I hope you have a lovely, relaxing holiday. Perhaps just before you go away might be a good time to have a firm talk with her as it would give her time to think about it.
I feel pretty good about this new job. I think it will suit me. Take care & talk soon, Cate.

Hi Sam

You poor thing... I can really sense your furstration through your writing - it must be completely doing your head in! I hope you get the chance to sort it out with your neighbour and then the opportunity to move on without it being worse or then uncomfortable.

Dont forget to take some 'ME' time for yourself!

Take care

Lauren

Thanks Lauren

Yes it has been stressing to say the least.....but I have calmed down to some degree.
We are off on our holidays on Monday and will be gone for 3 weeks - i am really looking forward to this break, it has been a really busy year.

I am surprised that with all thats occurred this year I haven't ballooned to twice my original Cohens joining weight.

Last night I had an Ethiopian meal for the first time it was quiet yummy.....it's very healthy, lots of veg, lentils and they serve it with a sour dough type pancake and you all eat from the same dish using your right hand. Very rustic. I ate a bit too much of the lamb and spinach dish.....it was yummo.

I have already made my new years resolution I have a few headings but my health and weightloss goal is to get down to 63kg and I have already booked in a personnel training session with a mum from school who does it for a living. I would also like to do aqua aerobics. So I am fairly focused for when I return in the new year.

My sever has been down for awhile anyone else experiencing this yesterday and this morning?.

Check back here later.

Sam:)

Well not much happening here today.....I have been visiting the forum on and off throughout the day.....it looks like it's just me.

I have had the most relaxing day ever people, I woke early with kids - finished all my xmas cards I will need to post it off Monday. And the nosey neighbour and family have gone on holidays....yippee!!!!. I did not realise how pent up I was....... after they left I finished my book had a snooze and have generally had a veg type day. No worrying about phone calls or having her kids just drop over when ever they like......total relaxation. I realise that I may have to take Cates advice and talk to her privately about this. What else has happened..... I have probably not eaten enough food today I was still feeling full from last nights meal. So basically I have read been on here and just let the house get dirty.....hubby has just installed my new washing line, the old one collapsed on me with all my clean washing yesterday and I especially woke at 6am to do all my washing and be organised for the rest of the day. So tomorrow I will be especially busy washing, ironing and packing before we go on holidays Monday....hubby said if it's too stressy we can leave Tuesday.....the pressure is if off to leave now, seeing the nosey neighbour has gone. I hope this forum picks up a little, I suppose it's to be expected with Christmas around the corner....but last year this time it was abuzz with all the newbies and oldies....what a difference a year makes.

I will call in to see if anyone is round tonight.

Sam:)

Well i didn't get around to checking in her last night. I fell asleep watching TV......I couldn't keep my eyes open. I think I am just about caught up on my sleep.

Today I have spent all of the day ironing I started at 11.30am and finished at 5.30am.
I am pretty exhausted. Tomorrow I will tackle the housework and pack for leaving [probably] Tuesday now. We are feeding a neighbours cat so this will fit in with when they return.

It has been such a humid day here in Brissie we have had the air-conditioner on most of the day.....the kids have had a veg day and then played in the spa this afternoon. We are hoping to have a pool installed for next summer. We are going to look at all the christmas light decorations in our area, the kid s have been looking forward to this.

Will check in here tomorrow - hope everyone is having a nice weekend.
8 days till Christmas!!!!!!!!

Sam:)

:driving:What a busy day today eveyone. Running around doing last minute christmas shopping, posting xmas cards, handing out gifts to our elderly neighbours, feeding the [neighbours] cat.......and now I am cleaning the house so we return to a clean house.

I have just sat down to have a little break. We have ordered take-away:angelsad2: I won't tell you what. I haven't really eaten today coffee and a roll for breakfast and not much else......I have been drinking lots of water though. I feel my tummy getting bloated:ack2:.....I am not going to carry on about it though....the new year is my oyster.

Have a wonderful christmas everyone and hope those who are on Cohens don't deviate too much:beerchug::santa:

Merry Christmas all and have a wonderful New year.:party:

Sam:seeya::waving:

MERRY CHRISTMAS SAM!

I hope that you have been haveing an awesome holiday away! I hope that you will come back relaxed and ready to tackle 2008 with renewed vigor! May it be filled with lots of fun and excitement and new opportunities!

I hope that you will be able to sort out things with your neighbour. As I read through your dilemma... I too was of the view that your best option was to actually confront her about the issue quite directly, but nicely. It could be that people have not said anything to her about it because they were afraid or worried about hurting her feelings etc, and so this behaviour has developed as a result of no correction. Maybe you are the best person to show her how it affects you. She obviously likes you and wants to be a part of your life. Setting boundaries is a really important skill. Its something we need to teach our children and our friends....Sometimes they dont like it when we place boundaries on them, but we know that its best for them and for us when we do. Our children learn to respect themselves when they learn to set boundaries...

Oops sorry... went on a bit there!

Anyway... I do wish you all the very best!

Blessya
Kannadew

Hey Sam

I bet you are going to be a hot bikini babe with a new pool.

Have a great 2008.

Cheers
Losing

Hi all:p

Hope you all had a wonderful christmas and new year. It comes and goes so quickly (maybe that's just age). We had a lovely holiday it was nice just getting away with the family......the car trip:auto: was probably a bit long for the boys but we got through it which is what counts.

We did 3 nights in Sydney and saw all the major sights...at this stage my size 10 skirt fitted and I felt fit and healthy. We then had 2 nights in Jindabyne my husband and older son did the Mt koisiosko walk. My youngest and I did walkabout locally and stayed in hotel (lovely hotel) and kipped (well I did).
Pretty cool down these neck of the woods (unseasonlly) was the local feedback. We took the boys to see the Snowy hydro Plant (hubby and I had done this before).
Then we spent two nights at a place called Euchea on the Murray River....this drvie seemed to go on forever luckly I slept some of it and the boys too. Poor hubby he did the majority of the driving. We stayed in a place called the Perricone Vines Resort...it was lovely we had our Christmas here. The place has cabins built around a lake and was very spacious. The resort had a golf course, pool and tennis court and a fully stocked fridge. It was the most relaxing Christmas that i can remember I read my book most of the day the boys played with their chrissie gifts, hubby unwinded and had a spa (oh!!! that was the other thing they had a massive spa in our cabin) then we all had a bbq meal early evening. The next day we left for Melbourne but we stopped at Euchea historical villiage and showed the boys a bit of history........we would have done a river cruise but my youngest was a bit tired and cranky by this stage and was letting us and everyone around us know.:reddevil:.
Next stop Melbourne......now I must say at this point we have had amazing accomadtion along the way, and Melbourne was our longest stop over so we were expecting something along the same lines.....but disappointlingly it wasn't we stayed at the Sebel on Collins which you would think would be a bit up market but it was small,cramped and the boys had to sleep in a fold out bed in the lounge and all the furniture was too big for such a small space... so sufface to say we did alot of getting out and about. We used to live in Melbourne so it was great catching up on all our old haunts. New Years in Melbourne......and my size 10 skirt is not fitting:eek:.....it is tight and I feel bloated and ready to come home, we have all put on weight except my oldest son. So by this stage I am ready to leave our crumped apartment and get home to my routine and proper eating.....I am very conscious that the boys have not been eating healthy either.

The trip home dragged.....as it does when you want to just get home. But we made it......and the best thing about going away for a holiday is that it makes you appreciate your home that much more.

So now that we are back I am trying to psych myself up to losing the holiday pudge.....it goes on so fast. At the moment I can feel it around my waist and bust/back.....my bra strap is really digging into me. My tom arrived Saturday that hasn't helped matters.

My new years resolution is to get back on the wagon and I won't go into the rest. I definitely want to get to my 63kg goal before my 40th in April (yikes).
Did anybody buy the WHO MAGAZINE it has the weight loss issue out very inspiring.

Thanks Losing and Kannadew for your blessing and good wishes. I appreciated you taking the time Kannadew for reading my diary and passing on your advice - thank you.

Bye for now will return later to check on any newbies to the forum and of course the regulars.

Take care all.

Sam:)

Morning all

Hubby returned to work today:(.....I woke at 6am and couldn't get back to sleep. The boys slept in. The weather here in Brissie is one minute raining and the other hot and humid. I shouldn't complain we need the rain.

Well I am still psyching myself up to start my healthy eating plan.....I know I should just jump in and start, but that is easier said then done. I feel so tired and bloated at the moment.....I was very const....ed through our holidays, I am like that must times but it is easier to manage at home. I did take my laxative tea and that helped me get some relief. (sorry folks for the detail).
I haven't weighed myself yet i know it won't be good....the other thing is I also have a weekend away at my sisters and......I know I am procastrinating, but I don't want to start something if I know I am outside my environment. (I know you all understand what I mean....or most of you)
I wish I could be like hubby he returned from our holidays and knows he needs to lose so he started exercising straight away...he has been on our elliptical machine from the day we got home. He's stronger minded then me (at the moment).

Not sure what I will do with the boys today....Haircuts is first on the agenda but other then that?????. The house needs a major clean inside and out. - LOTS of dust built up from the holidays but I am not in the mood for that....YET.

I hope everyone else is doing well....it's quiet in here again.
Check back later.

Sam:)

Hi Sam, You aren't the only one having trouble re-motivating!e. I want to lose 4kgs but, funny thing, it's not magicking(new word!) itself off me. I keep drinking lots of water & hope that does something. We'll get there eventually & the housework can wait. Relax & have fun with your kids! Take care, Cate

Hi Cate

Hubby and I have just been discussing our weight gain over the holiday especially our youngest son, we have just weighed him and our older son and my little one is heavier then him now, which is a big concern. Now that we are home I am making sure he drinks lots of water and snacks on fruit instead of rubbish...and when School commences we will be walking to and from there and his swimming and sports will all start back as well. Hubby just took the boys out for a bike ride after work so keeping active is very important. Hubby weighed as well but he couldn't tempt me....I know I have put on I can feel it - so weighing and seeing that number would make me very depressed at this stage. My Hubby is well into losing he didn't realise how much he'd gained till he hopped on those scales.

Well today I did a bit better food wise i had small meals with carbs but low in fat, my only treat was mango and ice-cream. I have been drinking lots of water and i also managed to clean up our lounge. It was irritating me immensley...all the xmas decorations came down it annoyed me and looked cluttered so everything is dusted, vacuumed and smelling fresh. Next room to tackle will be our rumpus room.

Well the boys had their haircuts and they both chose a dvd each from the dvd shop. They entertained themselves with their computer games and making cubby houses, which suited me. Early night for me folks.....I feel out of soughts since returning...not sure why. Very lethargic and feel like I should be doing more with the boys but they aren't complaining.....they enjoy each others company - most of the time. Just me being paranoid that I should be entertaining them 24/7.
I'd better be off the boys are carrying on.....it's bed time for them and me too soon.
Night all. sweet dreams.

Sam:)

Hi Sam

It's good to have you back... You're not alone, I think no matter who you are you allow yourself to relax over the festive season and a couple of kilos go on. You will get back your motivation and get back there. Set yourself a time date, adding a couple of weeks in for good measure and then put on the fridge or somewhere you will see it. Writing it down and making a contract with yourself is what I have done. I want to get back down to my 68kg (was 72kg this morning) but still build some muscle strength by 7 February (I need the muscles to be able to carry my pack the 65km's we are going to be hiking!!!).

But if all else fails - did you have fun?!? ha ha

Lauren

Finally the kids are off the computer....Santa!! got them Scholastic computer games which they love and are educational, not all those shooting games.

Thanks Lauren great to be back. Well I weighed this morning it wasn't all bad news I put on 5kg so i am sitting at 72.5kg.......I felt like I was about 75kg. I am slowly getting my act together.....slowly being the key word here. This morning I had my yogi and green tea and lunch was fish and rice...small portions on this. Keeping up the water intake is very important...so this is what I am doing. My total weightloss goal before my 40th in April will to lose 9 to 10kg.

I am going to do my weightloss in stages my next weight loss goal will be to get to 67kg - this should take a month, and then the next one wil be 63kg (hopefully) and this is where I would like to settle. Incorporate some exercise and Bob's your uncle......sounds easy I know...in theory most things are.

I know cutting the carbs is the next stage, but i am weening myself off them slowly.
Well i had better get back to my ironing......heaps of it since the holidays.

Glad to see you back Lauren as well. Hope you had a great Xmas and New Year. Our holidays were wonderful....I was laying in bed thinking why is it when you are away you can relax and unwind so easily. Well number one for me was the phone factor no hubby's mobile phone and home phone....escaping from your everyday routine is a major factor.
When do you go on your holidays? You mentioned february - is this to Tassie as mentioned before......I love Tassie my ideal holiday spot is Hobart. It will be extra special if you meet up with Cate as mentioned in your diary and Cates.

Lauren i was thinking of opening up a new thread mainly for the post Cohens members to share their weightloss goals and advice for 2008......but their isn't that many left here I think besides myself their is only you and Cate. What do you think????

Bye for now
Sam:)

Hi Sam,

I have been following your progress in the last few months and have enjoyed reading your posts (by the way..how's the neighbour?)
I remember reading that you wanted to look fab at 40.. when I first started in feb 07, it was my goal and I had until August to get there (very achievable).. I didnt follow through and even though I lost 28 kilos by then I felt great but when I look back at pics etc I didnt look fab at 40.. I wish I had done it, so my advice to you is..do it..stick to it..and you won't regret it!

Good luck!

Annie Lusion

Hey Sam

I reckon that new thread would be a great idea. There is a few "oldies: on here and I think there are probably some that visit to read, who could be coaxed back on the forum.

I'll keep my eye out for it,

Cheers
Sharon

Hi Sam,

I have been following your progress in the last few months and have enjoyed reading your posts (by the way..how's the neighbour?)
I remember reading that you wanted to look fab at 40.. when I first started in feb 07, it was my goal and I had until August to get there (very achievable).. I didnt follow through and even though I lost 28 kilos by then I felt great but when I look back at pics etc I didnt look fab at 40.. I wish I had done it, so my advice to you is..do it..stick to it..and you won't regret it!

Good luck!

Annie Lusion


Funny you should ask about the Neighbour......but before I start on that -
I want to say thank you Annie and losing for checking into my diary. I love hearing responses from all of you.

Well my NN update is that she called this morning.....I hadn't heard from her since we got back from our holidays.......so I thought she must have taken the hint. Well not so......I was actually relieved when she did call though because I could finally confront her about my feelings.

Which I did with much nervousness intially.....but I became much braver as I spoke my mind. I don't think any of us like confrontations - it is much easier to bury them and hope they don't resurface for good while.

So I told her how I felt about her phoning and all the other things that i have mentioned in my past posts......in her defense she simply believed she was just being a friendly neighbour. The only thing I didn't like is that she kept blaming her older son for coming over uninvited.....I explained that he was not the problem it was her.....I wanted her to take responsibility for her actions not blame the children.......after all they are the inoccent bystanders in all this, which is what I relayed back to her.
She said that the neighbours in the last 5 years have an understanding that the kids can drift from each others homes......I interjected that this is all find and dandy but we only coming up to our first year. The other thing she mentioned out of the blue is that she had only come to my house 3 times......I said it was her continious phoning that was the problem. I could have been quiet anal and done the tit for tat about invites to each others home and said that 3 times was more then we ever got.

I informed her that I should have probably been more direct with her and the kids....but when you are new to a situatiion and all of a sudden you are having her call organising get togethers with the kids and then every child from the neighbourhood is dropping in unexpectantly and your kids are enjoying the interaction.....well you are confused as to what to do. But like I said to her when my oldest boy starting getting ostracised from the neighbourhod kids and teased that was the wake up call for me. She said it wasn't her son......I acknowledged that I knew that.

(Hubby just rang then so I have been letting him in on what has occurred)
He's proud of what I have done, he knows how much this situation has been upsetting me.....I must say I feel a weight lifted.......BUT the next stage is to explain this to the kids.

Anyway I think I have jumped ahead of myself.......so basically i said to her that I would like some space from her and the neighbourhood.......she said that her youngest was asking to play with mine and would like to meet up at least once before School goes back.....I informed her that I would need to talk to my husband.....but at this stage I would I prefer to not have any contact with her for a while.
There was alot more said but I won't go on about it too much. I have purposely not mentioned anything here in the forum this year about it because I wanted to move on to more positive things and just focus on the my kids and family in general.

So Kannadew, Cate and others who have given me advice....thank you so much....I have you used your advice and taken the bulls by the horn. Hubby and I will let the boys know tonight.

I hope now I can move on and get started on losing some of this weight....this neighbour thing may have been the reason for my depressed state and inactivity since our return from holidays.

Meeting up with friends tomorrow and I am going away on the weekend so time to get moving (literally)

Annie thanks for the weightloss tip I aim to look fabulous for 40 and hope to maintain it. I have such inspiring people around me here on the forum so i can't go wrong.
Losing i will open up that thread and hope you are well. How is your weightloss going and when do you go in for you operation?

Take care all and thanks for being there me.

Sam:)

wooooo hoooooo.... go sam go!!
Good for you girl..I hope the boys took it well.

Time to focus on you now and get yourself looking like one hot mama at 40!!

Annie Lusion

Sam, Well done. I bet it was hard but it's best to clear the air. I hadn't asked about the neighbour for the same reasons you gave for not mentioning it. I'm pleased for you. If she doesn't like it too bad. Take care sweetie. You sound so positive & determined. Now please inspire me to be strict & get rid of about 4-5kgs so that I can say I have no excess weight xoxo Cate

Hi Sam

Sounds like you are getting things under control at your place. :smash:

I have lost one kilo since 1/1/08. and am booked in for surgery at the end of May 2008, which will be one year since I finished cohens. I am not measuring food so I guess I am doing my maintenance and also exercising to lose the weight as this is the plan for eating for me from now on.

Have a good one
Sharon

Hi Sam

Well done. When you have things like that hanging over your head it can be hard to get motivated but you've just broken down that barrier!

On the non-weight loss front of self improvement and development you have also just had a brake through achievement of being more assertive and confident... All part of the new Sam in 2008!

Take care

Lauren

Thanks Annie,Cate,Sharon and Lauren

You have all been wonderful and supportive in so many ways. I will catch up with the rest of the forum when I return from my weekend away at my sisters.
Have a glorious weekend.

Sam:)

Hi Sam!

Sounds like you have come back from your holidays ready to take on the world! I am so glad that you have been able to talk to your neighbour and address the issues that were bothering you. Hopefully with time you will be able to re-engage with them as a family without the intensity and any awkwardness. How did your boys take it?

Its great that your weight wasn't as bad as you dreaded! And you will get that 10kgs off in NO TIME! You have all the right tools now and have such a great understanding of your program and your body now! No problems!

Hope you have enjoyed the weekend with your sister!

Kannadew

Hi Sam,
Thought I would pop in and say hi! I've been reading over your diary and wow - you should be proud of yourself with the way you handled your interfering neighbour, you go girl!
I hope you are having a great weekend and I look forward to reading your progress.

Take care.

Mel

Hi Sam

I just re-read this last page of yours... the thread... I think it would be great! I have plenty! ha ha ha...

The activity of the forum it just awesome at the moment! Such a focussed and driven bunch!

I hope you had a great weekend with your sister!

Take Care

Lauren

Hi Everyone

Thanks for dropping by and leaving all your warm and supportive responses. I have not been on board here for awhile due to feeling a bit down about the whole weight loss thing. I have just posted a few lines about it in Cates diary. I have been reading everyone elses diary's since my weekend away......and they have been so motivating that I have felt it giving me that much needed boost.....also I have been sought of mediatating in my bed at night and trying to visulaise my weight loss goals.

The other thing is i am panicking about when the Schools return and people will see me over weight. (I'm a strange one). That's my head playing with me?????? You see when we moved here I was at the end of Cohens and was nearly to my goal weight, so no one knew I was over weight prior.....anyway........
I feel I am getting closer to jumping onto that weightloss wagon (once again) and I know once I do I won't come off........it's just the getting on. (sigh!!!).
My 40th in April is my goal point...I just have to focus on this and I know I can do it.

So here I go again everyone......and I am so glad you will all understand what i am talking about.

Thanks for listening all.

Sam:)

I forgot to say Lauren and Sharon I will get round to opening that Thread somethime soon.
Any ideas on names?????


Sam

Hi Everyone

.......The other thing is i am panicking about when the Schools return and people will see me over weight. (I'm a strange one). That's my head playing with me?????? You see when we moved here I was at the end of Cohens and was nearly to my goal weight, so no one knew I was over weight prior.....anywa