Aussie Determination

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Countrygal

9:24 pm
8 Dec 15
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Good morning team, and good evening Fit, I had a day of grazing yesterday grrr, no particular reason, just found myself eating mindlessly with no will power at all. Today is my turn (boy’s yesterday) for a “groom” so heading off with a girlfriend to a larger country town for a hair cut then lunch ? hopefully good choices will save my day and as she is driving a whiskey and zero will be enjoyed too ?? As you may have gathered my social life isn’t as exciting as a lot of you, but I do enjoy getting out for lunch, dressing up, and being spoilt. Tomorrow will be my fast day this week, so hopefully maintaining my steady 73-74k I don’t want to mar any occasion with finatical thinking of what I can’t have or enjoy (rarity for me), just repair any damage with an extra fast….easy….there is no reason an extra can’t be done on a weekend to maintain ?
We have all come so far, learnt so much, shared so many emotions through the year team, we feel pride in each other as in ourself too, we feel each others hurt and injustice, but above all, remain firm loyal friends ?
So, see the invisible, feel the intangible and achieve the impossible ? YOU CAN DO IT xxxxxxxxx

noots48

9:35 pm
8 Dec 15
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Hi all, Suejen I didn’t do too badly on my FD with girlfriends. I concentrate on my coffee on those days, saying to myself I can eat tomorrow!
Doggie, so sorry about your brother. I have been divorced once but felt it worse when each of my two sons also got divorced, felt to blame somehow. They are both fine now as am I.
Damp and humid here in my part of NSW this morning. Put all my pot plants out at 3 am to catch the light rain that was falling. You can water as much as you like but you can’t beat a bit of rain to freshen everything up.

Fittoretire

10:01 pm
8 Dec 15
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Hi there CG and Noots – another new page, woohoo! We will definitely be over 200 pages before Christmas – what an achievement 🙂
CG – you know you have all the tools and strategies necessary to cope with any type of eating – be it grazing or lunches out. We are all going to enjoy the next few weeks but this time around we are going to keep an eye on the scales or feel our waistbands and then decide if we need an extra fast or two before things get out of hand. We know not to be disappointed or disheartened if we gain a little. We know this is a marathon and not a sprint. WE ARE AUSSIE DETERMINATION AND WE CAN DO THIS!!
Noots – you are a great example to us all of how to enjoy time with friends without losing the plot! I bet your plants loved that refreshing drop of rain 🙂
Well, I’ll be dreading stepping on the scales in the morning after my two coffee dates today. But I did try not to over indulge and I’m hoping to do a good fast tomorrow; so all will be well 🙂

Dogsabie

12:33 am
9 Dec 15
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Hello my cyber friends. I’d firstly like it clarify something I said in my previous post. I’m not criticising anyone who is divorced. Far from it. Far better a good divorce than to put up with a bad marriage. My son is divorced too. It can be hard on the kids though but my grandies seem to cope fine and be well grounded.
I spoke to my brother earlier today and he sounds quite perky. He may be discharged tomorrow. The surgeon seems to think his meds needed tweaking.
I’ve just finished changing my duvet from winter to summer. I do hope I’ve not done a rain dance version of more cold weather!
FD again tomorrow. I’ve just boiled up some eggs and have the makings of salad plus smoked salmon. It’s not exactly cheap but it’s very tasty, High in protein and relatively low in calories. Does anyone have a low calorie salad dressing recipe? I enjoy a dash of Olive oil with Balsamic vinegar. I usually mange to fit it in just under the 500 calories. I doubt if I’ve lost any weight this week. The weather has not been conducive to long walks but I’ve done quite a bit of housework which does burn up a few calories.
Enjoy the day all and let’s do as our fearless leader says – Don’t sweat the small stuff.

Fittoretire

9:48 am
9 Dec 15
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Hellooooooo…….elloooooo…….elloooooo!! The lonely echo goes round and round; where is everyone? You must all be having a much more exciting time than me!!
Dawg – so glad to hear your brother is in good form and wishing him all the best. My OH makes a lovely salad dressing with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, black pepper and a grainy mustard. He usually adds a small amount of honey too, but that would bump up the calories so if you leave it out, I think it would be ok.
Well I weighed in this morning to find I’m a half kg down on last week; yippee!! Mind you, I was at my heaviest for ages last week so that was not good! 🙁 But, now I’m repairing the damage even though I have had lots of outings in the last few days. I am even more determined now to fast today and that will help off-set tomorrow’s coffee date.
Looking forward to hearing from you all soon xxxxx

purple hats

10:08 am
9 Dec 15
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Hi everyone. Had a very busy day today, went up to Grafton to take my 70 year old brother to meet a doctor. It is a long story, he was mis diagnosed with cancer by a Grafton doctor and went to Coffs Harbour, 1 hour away, to get a second opinion on,y to end up in hospital 2 days later with an advanced cancer diagnoses. That was 7 years ago. And he has not had a doctor in his home town since. Now that he is on dialysis every second day he must get any infection seen to as soon as possible and he is not well enough to be travelling to Coffs every time he gets an infection. He is stubborn and sick of doctors so I had to come the heavy sister and find a good doctor, make an appointment and drag him to see him. Did that today and he really likes the doctor I chose. He has gone into practice after spending many years as emergency doctor at the hospital, he has a wonderful personality and laughed at the story about me dragging My older brother off to get help. Completely understands that his Coffs Harbour doctor retains records and he is just for emergency in Grafton. Lovely man so that now is all fixed and I can sleep easier every time my brother rings me and I sense that he is not well. I I’ll just send him to the doctor no more excuses. Mission accomplished. Did an hour in the hydro pool before the appointment and came home exhausted. Slept all afternoon. Still not recovered from trip away. ???

CG. Hope you enjoyed your day out with your friend and that whiskey and Zero..always good to get that hair cut and be pampered once in a while. You are always looking after everyone ,especially on the thread ,
Where would we all be without your encouragement. Just love the last inspirational message. Hit the spot exactly ???
Know what you mean about grazing all day. I was supposed to be fasting today ..all started out well, packed my H B eggs and some cooked chicken in a little esky and off I went. All went well. Had my 2 HB eggs at my brothers place after the doctors and headed off home. Was really hungry so on the trip home I ate the chicken. Which would have beenOK if that was all I had until a light dinner…..however was still hungry when I got home so had a cup of coffee, and a ginger nut. Busted. ???. Did only have light dinner and am now in bed thinking I need a piece of fruit. So will have to have a fast day on Saturday maybe …this week has been a write off…so not weighing on Friday..have to be extra good next week..

SJ. Good that you are able to give grandies a pres for Christmas. At least they are not missing out..just have to see what the next year brings with D and play it by ear. Good that they are getting counselling though. Hang in there and don’t let her pull your strings??. Hope that new cream works a treat for you…

Fit. Hope you are plesently surprised when you get on the scales. You sound like you have not been overdoing things too much. What dreadful weather in your part of the world. Such a bummer to have that before Christmas.

Doggy. Re the dressing I use balsamic vinegar and lemon juice sometimes on my salads, the lemon juice just breaks down the strength of the balsamic vinegar. Or sometimes I use wine vinegar and lemon juice. Just a lighter dressing than olive oil. Good luck with the weight this week. Feeling for your brother, we just love them don’t we?

Noots. What a woman, early morning drinks for your plants. How spoilt are they. Hope you are looking after yourself…

Hi to Gyps, GG , Milena,UP anyone I have missed. Off to sleep now still remembering the songs sung by the lovely Hugh..???

Fittoretire

10:26 am
9 Dec 15
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Hi PH – well done on looking after your brother so well. Men can be very hard to get sorted with medical issues – they just don’t seem to want to tackle things the way we do. You’ve had a busy time of it looking after him so don’t be hard on yourself – I don’t think you’ve done too much damage. Look after yourself now and sleep well – sweet dreams of Hugh! 😉

Countrygal

10:34 am
9 Dec 15
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Sweet dreams PH, hi Fit,, well do I need my fast tomorrow or what! Chicken parma for lunch with a few chips and salad, then cold roast pork and salad for dinner. I bought some new ice cream but couldn’t fit it in the fridge, the old one had a cup or so left so polished that off, (hate waste) but my big problem this time of year are the summer fruits. I just love them. I know the modern day thinking is they are full of sugar, but I’m still of the old belief, they are a natural and good for you, also great roughage ? so had two nectarines and some cantalope! Not from hunger, just the beauty of the fresh fruit as I unpacked it and the smell……also a tray of 6 mangos mmmmmm. (No I haven’t eaten them yet!) So fasting tomorrow big time! Could even try again Saturday!
I wish they’s go back to the old thinking that fruit is good for us! ? not that it matters, it’s always part of my diet. So we are ALL groomed, feeling good, full belly too ? but content. It’s been a good day this end.
PH kid brothers always need their older sisters to take over, well done, the doctor sounds very understanding and great for your brother.
Doggy, I for one took no offence at anything you have said, so relax dear friend, nothing you could say would intentionally offend any of us ? I’m twice divorced by choice and again, never been happier, yes sure I wish they had worked, and had companionship at my age, but peace of mind is so important and that is what I have ?
Noots, hope the humidity is passing, it’s awful, ours passed with a beautiful change last night, two huge thinder storms, then we were blacked out for more than an hour!
Happy planning for our fast tomorrow team…nighty nite xxx?

Countrygal

9:27 pm
9 Dec 15
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Good morning team, evening Fit….happy fast day team, this is the one that counts! We have a three day break coming up so todays fast should level out what you have over the weekend, as well as undo any damage done this week. It’s often the hard one too, Monday for some reson seems so much easier but YOU CAN DO IT. You have planned, you are experienced and a diehard ? so BRING IT ON, we have Xmas coming up and some over indulging each week so be strong, do this for yourself YOU ARE NOT ALONE we have each other but above all we have our AUSSIE DETERMINATION ? xxxxxxxxx

Fittoretire

11:20 pm
9 Dec 15
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Mornin’ CG – good luck with your fast. I did mine today because I’m going out for coffee (yet again!) tomorrow. It wasn’t as strict as it should be, definitely not under 500 cals but it was alot better than not trying at all or worse – bingeing! So I’m drawing on my AUSSIE DETERMINATION and I’m going to be strong and keep the bigger picture in mind. I want to enjoy Christmas but I’m going to remember that it’s only a couple of days and is not worth undoing all my previous hard work. Also I don’t want to start the new year in the same state as twelve months ago.
I had quite a productive day – wrapping nearly all my Christmas presents and sorting all the little stocking fillers I got for my girls. I love the anticipation of seeing their faces on Christmas morning – no matter what age they are, the magic is still there. 🙂 🙂
Hope to see lots of posts when I next log on or I might have to start using my ‘teacher’ voice!!!!!

go gal

11:28 pm
9 Dec 15
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Good morning all. So pleased fast day is here. I have been so busy with my new job and feeling exhusted once home . Day off today so that I can concentrate on cleaning my own home.
A salad dressing that I make is 200mls olive oil, 200mls white vinagar, teaspn dijon mustard . then shake until mixed.

Hope you all have a great fast today . You can do this …….Go Gal xxx

Dogsabie

11:56 pm
9 Dec 15
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Hi all. Fit, PH, GG thanks for the salad dressing recipes. I’m going to try them. On that topic. A friend bought me a lovely gismo for dressings. It’s a glass bottle that has two other bottles inside. One for Olive oil and one for Balsamic vinegar. I think it’s Italian.
Well this doggy has put herself in the dog box today. Last night after hubby went to bed I raided my grandkids Xmas stocking fillers consisting of chocolates with popping candy. They did not even taste nice as it was far to sweet but needles to say I gobbled of up three or four. I then paid for it as I slept badly. Too much sugar hit no doubt. Oh what it is to be human with all our weaknesses. Anyhow fast day today and I’m having my usual HB eggs plus fish and salad with AD yummy salad dressing for supper.
CG in an earlier post you mention a hair dryer for dogs. May I ask what brand it is please? Pepper’s coat gets very curly and knots easily after a bath. I use my dryer but it’s not nearly powerful enough to do the job properly.
PH sorry about your brothers health issues. Some men can be very stubborn. Most nurses I’ve worked with far preferred female wards as they were far less taxing than their male counterparts. What a lot of whingers most of them were.
I’ve one week left before our family arrive for the holidays. Only three more fast days including today. I very much doubt if I’m going to be losing much weight. Not to worry we have a whole year ahead of us once again. If I’m able to lose another 8 kilos by this time next year I’ll be more than happy. Time will tell.
CG I love fresh fruit too. I agree it is nihgt’s I fructose but so yummy. We have friends who have a fruit farm closely. Hubby bought lovely fresh off the trees peaches and cherries yesterday. Delicious.
????????

GL502

12:04 am
10 Dec 15
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We have had our family christmas last weekend and birthdays the previous ones. I did enjoy our normal celebrations knowing the extra weight will come off. I have had about half a week of sugar headaches these will go when I get back into the routine again. I have found that my tastes are changing so will include some lighter desserts for next year. Maybe it was due to the hot weather but nobody ate much. As each family left I bundled up the excess food and sent them home with them. If it is not in the house I can’t eat it. The furthest away got the non perishables. In the afernoon the males the littlest was two retired to the yard and played cricket, aussie rules and soccer. My youngest daughter was amazed with the new me. All she could say was how happy I was. It was tiring but everyone left happy. The suggestions from non family members I let flow over me. This is the one meal a year that I like on proper plates.

suejen

2:13 am
10 Dec 15
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Morning all sorry MIA yesterday. Just a quick post as we’re heading out for a walk. Fasting today as usual and hopefully that will get me back to the 69s.
Post more and replies later. Have a good FD all. Life is getting busy! Suejen xxxx

Countrygal

3:12 am
10 Dec 15
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Hi team, just having a bit of salmon and salad for lunch, 2:00 so weakened today as I normally don’t eat till dinner time. Doggy, go into ebay and type in “dog hair dryer” they are around $76+ my groomer was so impressed with mine she bought it off me ? because I don’t do the grooming any more. They are the only ones (I think) on ebay but the first lot any way……they are small enough to store in a cupboard but very powerful and work so well….let me know how you go ?
GL what a lovely day you had, keep the positive memories close ?
Enjoy your walk suejen
GG, hope you are liking the new job, nice yo get a catch up day at home, it ,means the week end is yours?
Fit, I can’t imagine someone as sweet and as sensitive as you having a “teachers” voice ? and fortunately we are getting some posts in so maybe I wont get to see it anyway ☺️
Chores I should be doing, but took the boys for the vet check up’s this morning and getting too late in the day to start much, so may have to lay on the couch and suffer through the cricket ☺️
Positive day to you all team xxxxx?

purple hats

4:32 am
10 Dec 15
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Afternoon everyone. Busy again today off to bridge then coffee with a friend in Woolgoolga, then threw a load of washing in the machine and off to coffee with another friend…so no fast day for me. Will do one tomorrow. All I have got on tomorrow is the early morning aquarobics class at 8am so it will finally feel like I am back to normal. Got to go and hang the washing on the undercover line. Back soon.
Hope your fasting is going well…

suejen

5:41 am
10 Dec 15
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Gee we sure are getting festive aren’t we. Had my walk & was happy as the one factor that may be affecting my back/neck that are not getting much better is that we’ve dropped our walks. So managed bit under an hour walk & with a bit of stopping & stretching the back’s OK. More physio tomorrow but hoping to swap over to the osteopath next year – he’s closed his books for this year, just too busy darn it. My physio talks way too much & drinks her coffee etc etc. Wouldn’t mind if she kept working while she talked but she mostly doesn’t!
PH you’re having a busy time too. Coffee shops must do well this time of year.
CG hope you’re enjoying the cricket…good move. Also good to see you being flexible on your FD. We all seem to need to do that from time to time. I had my HB egg at 11.30 – way earlier than usual as it was a choice of squish it into my pocket during the walk…..or eat it! So I did. Will need a La Zuppa soup or a vegemite drink to get through till dinner.
GL your family Christmas all over already AND more importantly you’ve got rid of the extra food already…well done!!
Oh Doggie you really DID put yourself in the doghouse! I’ve done things like that before too. In fact….just yesterday!! I’ve made up bags of Christmas lollies for the bus kids I look after & tied with curly ribbon….but…….I just love lollies myself (extremely rare these days thank goodness). so yesterday after work I thought Oh I’ve made way too many. I should have one of those myself & I did!!
GG good that you have a day off to slow down a bit & manage your FD a bit easier.
Fit I’m so with you. Any attempt at a FD is a win in my books. It’s always going to be lower calories than your usual. And if that’s all you can manage in a busy week well run with it!

Have posted my D’s presents up to Darwin inc her biscuit tin. Lined the whole tin with bubble wrap & put more between each layer then more on top so hope they arrive intact. Depends how much Australia Post knocks them around! Now just have the grandies presents to wrap for other D and send along with their biscuit tin. Hope they stay fresh enough. Grandies in USA all done & dusted so we’re all good.

Well that’s about it from me. We don’t have any family in WA (apart from the D!) so a quiet Christmas. We’re doing a house swap with a family in Perth (nice house near the river with a pool) so Christmas Day will be spent on the road to Perth, with a yummy Christmas lunch taken with us in the esky & devoured in a park by a lake. That’s the plan at this stage anyway!! Hang in there all. CG I’m feeling a bit like you. It’s only 1.30 & I’m hanging out for my soup already as a filler. But my aussie determination will get me there. YES IT WILL 🙂 suejen XXXX

purple hats

6:45 am
10 Dec 15
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Hi SueJen. You are so organised. Good on you for recommencing the walking. And sticking with your fast day so far…YOU CAN DO THIS,!! And .you will feel much better for some exercise. Your family is scattered just like mine. I still have the memory cards to collate and email to the various mother in laws where the boys will spend Christmas. I should try to get that done this weekend. Good project for when there are no appointments. So lucky to have my Daughter home for Christmas and Peters family coming. However still so much to organise. Lots of tidying up and cleaning etc but no good doing that till a few days before… Did manage to get 4kgs of small king prawns fresh off the boat in Yamba on the way home on Tuesday. Froze them straight away and all now ready for Christmas Day..Sister in Law bringing the whole Fish from the Gold Coast so all we need to do is visit the local oyster farm and get some fresh oysters….YUMMY. So really only salads to make and a frozen Christmas Ice Cream Cake With lots of dried fruit soaked in brandy mixed in and we are all sorted. Oh and make the watermelon champagne cocktail…???????

CG and Doggy. I’m with you on fruit. ?????? I just love the stone fruit and everything that is around at Christmas time. OH got the sweetest peaches from Aldi yesterday.??? So beautiful. I can’t leave them alone. Will have to watch myself on my Fast Day tomorrow…ate 3 last night before I went to bed.. I believe something that healthy can’t be bad for you. Also the lovely young couple that are staying in Daughters house went blueberry picking and arrived with a half a bucket of blueberrys. How can you resist ….froze most of them to avoid temptation but they defrost so quickly….Then you have to put a little bit of ice cream with them to get rid of them????.

GL. Your family celebrations sound great. Great that your youngest daughter was impressed by how you feel. you must be so pleased and proud of yourself. I just love big family gatherings and until this year we have always had the traditional cooked Christmas dinner. It will be interesting to see how we go with the seafood and salads..

Doggy well done for your weight loss this year ..I’m with you….. I have lost around 8 Kgs since I started in early September, and if I can do the same next year I will be one proud momma….this Aussie Determination and the wonderful ladies on the thread have made all of this possible and if I can maintain over Christmas it will be such a positive outcome for my first stage of becoming the new me.

GG . Great that you have the day off after starting your new job. Time for you to have a bit of “you” time over the weekend and enjoy. Going to try your salad dressing recipe tomorrow. Sounds nice..

Fit..hope you are having a good nights sleep. Well done for being so organised with the Chrissie presents. ???I am sure you will not need your Teachers Voice! I have been trying to make up for being MIA recently I promise!!!
OH calling me for dinner. Keep that determination going all of you that are fasting..you know you can do it…

Countrygal

6:53 am
10 Dec 15
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Suejen, if I really questioned myself, I would have realised I wasn’t hungry! But I had it anyway, and glad I did. It’s now 5:50 and not at all hungry! ? so might skip dinner and just have a milky coffee instead. I’m finding I still eat out of habit sometimes rather than hunger, so tonight if I change things around it wont matter ? Your physio sounds like a dud to me. Mine never stop working on me or my osteopath even my chiro! If your paying a full price, skipping it from now till you can get into the ostiopath shouldn’t matter, just keep up with the walking, the cure all of all exercises, and stretching plus whatever routine she has given you,if any ? save your money and stop lining her posket.
PH you are a socalite aren’t you. It’s fantastic but remember rest time is as important ? even for the brain. I’m sure you would only do what you can handle ☺️
I do hope you are managing your fast team, often Thursday seems harder but YOU CAN DO IT, and if for some reason you brake it, stay as low with cals as possible,giving you a semi! Better than nothing……and you still benefit…..chat later xxxx

Fittoretire

1:58 pm
10 Dec 15
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Hi All!
Well done, class!! Very good reporting!!! A couple of you are still a bit late handing in your homework, but I’m sure there are good reasons! 🙂
GG – hope you are managing to get a good rest too on your day off – you don’t want to tire yourself out so early on in the new job! I’m sure you will get into a new rhythm of work, rest and play very soon. Take care xx
Oh Dawg – I’ve been in the same dog house on many an occasion – often eating the children’s easter eggs when they got so many that I felt it my duty to ‘get rid’ of a few so that they wouldn’t be sick!! At least, that was my excuse!! 😉 Your FD meal sounds lovely – enjoy 🙂
SJ – good to hear from you. It does sound like that physio needs to go – you deserve her full attention; so I hope you find someone better!! Well done on getting all your biscuits safely off in the post; let’s hope they arrive in one piece!! You are a mum/gran in a million!! 🙂
PH – love the sound of all that fresh fish and seafood – mmmmm! And it would not be safe to leave me in the same room as that Christmas Ice-cream Cake – wow, totally delicious!! Congrats on your great loss to date and I’m sure we will all keep up the good work next year with all the support and encouragement going on in this thread xxxx
GL – so happy for you that you had a lovely family celebration and that your daughter could see such a difference in you. You are proving to us all that it is possible to enjoy lots of treats without going overboard….well done!! 🙂
CG – well, I didn’t have to use my ‘teacher’ voice but believe me, I sure do have one!!! You have such a big heart that you just see the good in everyone <3. Well done on adapting the FD to suit your needs – it just goes to show that are many, many ways to make 5:2 work for us and there is no need to give up just because life throws us a curve ball or we are feeling under pressure. I’m sure you and the boys are looking very glamorous now after your pampering; so I hope you got to sit back and enjoy the cricket!! Life is sooo hard at times!!!!! 😉 I’m a big fruit/veg eater too and I firmly believe that’s why I’m so healthy.
Lots more rain and wind forecast for the next few days….eeeek! Younger daughter due to fly home from the UK on Saturday, so I hope the weather doesn’t affect her travel plans. I’m just back from yet another coffee date! I had no breakfast and so had poached eggs, tomato and lean bacon at the coffee shop and that will do for lunch as well; so that should be ok. I’m so glad that semi-fasts work too as they stop me from giving up altogether which is what happened me in the past when trying to do an ordinary ‘diet’. Just loving this wol and loving all you gals even more!!!! Xxxxxx

Countrygal

9:40 pm
10 Dec 15
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Good morning team, good evening Fit, you precious girl ☺️ well fasts all done and dusted for most of us and we can now relax and let our hair down a bit. I think we have all noticed our meal sizes are smaller than 12 months ago, even our sweet tooth has subsided some, sure we do graze on the odd day, but have you noticed the grazing isn’t always something sweet ? I still maintain it’s usually just the need to get our teeth into something, to get that crunch, that texture, that……..?well, that’s why we graze, looking for that…? Generally we are so much more cautious of what we have in the pantry now, with what we cook, how we cook, even how much we drink, food is not controlling us anymore ☺️ and with having just a small treat gives us the same satisfaction. I’m thinking just a few chips on our plate when eating out, in the past we weren’t happy unless we saw a huge pile! A biscuit or two is enough now, we don’t just keep reaching till our coffee is gone ☺️ we don’t eye off the biggest slice of cake etc, team, we have all come so far. Be proud of yourselves, they all seem such small steps but hay, look how far on our joyrney those small steps have taken us ?
You are now in control, you are not eating out of habit, you eat when hungry and sensibly (I don’t class chocolate as junk, it’s a necessity!) it’s good for you and we “must” be good to ourselves ? denying ourselves leads to so much uncontrolled eating, see, that’s why a bit of chocky is good for you……
Have a fabulous day team, make each post a winner, remember to take time out to smell the roses and definately, don’t sweat the small stuff, life is too short for regrets, you MUST know your system is healthier and your choices (in the main) are healthier….I haven’t weighed in today yet, morning coffee is far more important, so will check in later ? happy positive day to you all…xxxxxx

Fittoretire

9:57 pm
10 Dec 15
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Mornin’ CG – well the storms are still hanging around and we expect to get another battering over the weekend. You are right about the choices we make now and the amount that we eat but I know I will have a fight on my hands when the boxes of chocolates are opened over Christmas. 😳 Weekly chores for my sister tomorrow, so that will keep me away from the snacks for most of the day. I’m finding that not eating breakfast all this week and avoiding eating between meals has served me well because I had too many coffee dates to be able to do a proper fast day.
Hope all is going well with everyone and would love to hear from UP, Gyps, Milena and others whom I know have been busy; but we miss you!! Xxxxx

suejen

10:59 pm
10 Dec 15
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Morning all I’m actually up early enough for it to still be morning for the east coasters! That’s a change. Had a good FD and weighed in at 69.6. .2 off my lowest so ok and back into the 60s thank goodness. Would love to be lower but can’t see it happening this month! Hate seeing that 70 again & even a 71 this week which I really didn’t want to see. Amazing how picky we get isn’t it!! Never mind as GG would say Patience is my best friend right now & that will be true for many of us over the silly season.
Getting into cleaning the house up ready for our hone exchange over Christmas. Amazing what you notice when visitors are coming. The venetian blinds are getting a clean…..yukky job and the cupboards need a wipe down and tidy up. OH is fixing up a lot of things that needing doing & put off & even doing some re-painting of grungy areas. Our house will be sparkly like Gyps 🙂
Yes youre right guys re my physio I need to change. So hard to do but I’ve made the decision. Hard cos I do my pilates there as well but she doesn’t supervise that much either, not for what we pay. And have found a class half the price for over 60s.
Well onto another day of eating whatever we like…just not however MUCH we like! Enjoy some foods you love enjoy our beautiful world and the people in your life that you have been blessed with. And thank 5:2 that you can enjoy this season fully yet still maintain your weight…….with a bit of care juggling and planning it CAN BE DONE YEAH:) suejen xxxx

purple hats

1:38 am
11 Dec 15
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Hi everyone, feeling good today and thanks for concern CG . I Dont seem to have as many after effects from my latest trip. Must be all the extra exercise I have been doing finally paying off. I hope that is what it is anyway. Got up early this morning and off to aquarobics at 8am. feels good to be back into the routine again. Fasting today as I could not get into the swing of things and only had. Mini fast on Wednesday.
Have not weighed myself and am not going to this week. I am sure I would be back over the 100 after my gala anoint around last week so will leave it till next Friday.. Don’t wast to see the 100 again????

Fit you are like me and seem to have lots of coffee dates. I tried a new way of having it yesterday so that I did not have as much milk. Usually have a latte so had a long black with Cream Just a little smidge of cream. Not bad for a fast day option if I need to go out. Had it at two different coffee shops yesterday. Still prefer the Double shot Latte though.

CG. You have hit the nail on the head re our eating habits. We just don’t have a lot in the cupboard anymore. I used to always have plenty of nibbles in the cupboard in case someone called in and always ended up eating them ..now I don’t have anything but a single tin of smoked oysters and some plain rice crackers. And I can’t open the one tin as then I would have nothing to offer anyone. Big change in my house. Only almonds, no salted peanuts etc. also the meal sizes have altered. So many things have changed which will stand us in good stead for the silly season.

SueJen. your 70 is my 100. So pleased you have gotten back to the sixties!! How long have you been doing home exchange? Agree with everyone about your physio..you deserve better.

Have to fi ish this list later as someone at the door…bye for now??

Countrygal

3:21 am
11 Dec 15
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Hi team, I know Doggy hasn’t posted today, but wondering when you do Doggy, have you been hit with this cold snap. By golly it’s cold, blustery winds, rain on and off, fickle weather again. Hot soup and a crusty roll was my choice for lunch, just feels like good eating weather ? xxxxxx

Dogsabie

5:17 am
11 Dec 15
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Hi all. I’m late today. We drove to,another town, twisty, Winding narrow rod to get our Xmas ham. Only to discover that the fab gourmet butchery has been taken over by new owners. Anyhow I bought two hams, uber expensive but what the H it’s Xmas. So they had better be good.
CG thanks for tip on eBay and dryers for dogs. I’ll give it a go.
I’m thinking I may not bother with trying to do anymore fast days till after the new year and the family have gone. We have been invited to neighbours for Pre Xmas Happy Hour plus other festivities in the pipeline. I just know I’m not going to sit around like a Puritan and refuse wine and nibbles. Who knows I may yet change my mind.
Weigh day was much as I’d expected. Still stuck on 70 kilos and *%#<£€€ measurements seem to be creeping up. I can’t blame anyone but myself. If I don’t post on a regular basis I’ll still be here. Just seem to have lots to do before the family arrive.
CG I’m not even bothering to watch the cricket. Do you remember Viv Richards, Graham Grenich, Curley Amborse etc? The Wimdies were formidable. It’s sad to see them as bad as this.
XX Doggy

Countrygal

6:06 am
11 Dec 15
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I remember the names Doggy but wasn’t into it back them, but hay, we were in our good days with Mcgrath Warnie and the like and then went into a slump, even now I find we are hit and miss, like Smith only getting 10 yesterday, The Captain…what the…. .? But it’s just a game, I like a close one but it’s all an excuse to sit, or lay on the couch, maybe the odd nanny nap, and it’s the sound of Summer. I understand you not wanting the pressure of fasting with visitors but you might get the odd day when one is possible as well as logging in. I almost threw in the towel last year because no one replied to my posts over Xmas, it does only take a short few minutes to keep our thread up and running, we all still need support no matter what time of year it is. Enjoy your hams, I got a small one from Aldi, can’t fault them each year, so usually get a couple for cold meat through the summer ?..xxxxx

go gal

8:01 am
11 Dec 15
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Late post!so hot here on the coast today. House cleaning for others without aircon drains one ++.Came home changed and went for a swim to cool off…..then was hot again.Hope the weekend will e cooler. I have so enjoyed this new direction in my career, bounderies are firmly in place ….so I do not be a registered nurse. Iys sooo hard to keep my mouth closed but this is a good thing, I simply say “you should see your doctor..clients do not know thatI am an RN.
The weight is going well have lost 1.5kgs in total……there will be more ,of that I am sure.
Hope you are all well and doing the right thing with portion control and such.
Have a great weekend. Hope the weather settles for those in the northern hemisphere………GO GAL XXXXXXX

purple hats

8:02 am
11 Dec 15
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Hi everyone, quiet today. I remember the windies when they at their best Doggy. It was at a time when we did not even have TV ..my dad used to listen to the radio all night and was such a fan of Viv Richards. Exciting times they were. I used to sneak out of bed and listen with him till mum caught me and sent me back to bed.

CG..how is your recovery going?..are you able to do most things by now or is it still too soon, I can’t remember how long it has been since your op. I imagine you still have take it easy for a couple of more weeks. The weather sure is changeable where you live. Fancy being cold at this time of the year. Very hot day here. Air conditioning running In the sewing room. Just come back into the house and it is like an oven..so had to turn on the air con here as well. ???
Have had a busy afternoon today finishing off all my clothing alterations so I have things to wear over the Christmas period. Got most of it done and that will have to do. I found two lovely tops to go with pants when I was in Brisbane on the weekend, the $20 one from Millers was a lovely voile white collared shirt with pink flowers, and navy swirls.. So crisp looking…looked so great I wore it to see Hugh with a pair of navy linen slacks. Nothing like a couple of new things to liven Up the wardrobe.??

I have had a very successful fast day so far. On,y two HB eggs about 2.00 so I could take my tablets. Looking forward to fish and salad for dinner which OH has just called me for. Bye for now

Countrygal

8:40 am
11 Dec 15
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Hi PH, thanks for askng, I’m fine, being gentle with myself, saw my chiro this morning and booked for a massage early next year too. I’ve been thumped in the tummy a few times by Lexie, a calves nateral reaction to their Mum, but a tap on her nose tends to back her off a bit, but feel quite winded after she does it ? but soldier on…….I got stuck into the fruit this morning and by the time I got to the chiro, didn’t think I’d make the loo on time! Still learning what foods go through me and what are okay, and seeing the surgeon next Wednesday for check up. It will ge two weeks next Monday ? so going quickly. No exercises or pool now till next year, taking time off just to rest and heal…xxxxxx

suejen

9:19 am
11 Dec 15
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CG so glad to hear you’re taking it easy & having a break. I think we’ve all got so busy that I haven’t even asked how you’re going & you’re not a whinger so we don’t hear much from you about it! Ooh a thump from Lexie in the tummy would NOT have been very comfortable for you I’m sure.
PH glad you’ve got your clothing alterations done. I haven’t done that yet but it’s all fairly straight up the side seams so nothing difficult with mine. On the agenda before Christmas.
GG you sound like you will be losing weight dead easy with your new job. So glad that you love it! And hush hush about you being a nurse eh that would be rather hard at times!!
Oh Doggie I would fit in a FD if you can manage it between social stuff. I just don’t want to be too disappointed with myself & my journey after Christmas. I’ll still be having drinks & nibbles & the like for SURE! But I guess my social life is fairly quiet so it may be easier for me. But I put on weight so easily that I’ll sneak in a FD wherever I can…just needs careful planning to fit them in. And then if something unexpected comes up on a FD well at least you’ll end up with a whole lot less calories than you would have! That’s my thought anyway.
UT how’s your week of work going – pretty busy I expect during the last week of school? Hope you’re managing to fast somehow.
PH if it’s a FD & we end up getting coffee I ask for a long black with a jug of hot milk on the side. then you can put in as much or as little as you want & doesn’t add up to much. If the long black’s a bit on the bitter side I add more milk (usually from a dirty machine).
Well time to think about dinner. Have 1/4 of a casserole left over but not enough for us both darn. Might see what else is in the freezer to save me cooking up something. I’m all for a night without cooking seeing I do all of it. Have a great weekend everyone. Don’t forget to check in & let us know how you’re going…even if it’s only a line or 2! suejen XXXX

purple hats

10:21 am
11 Dec 15
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I can’t believe that my fast day is going so well. Exercise this morning and then nothing till 2.00 when I had my eggs then just added up the calories from dinner and my total is just 375 and I am not hungry???.??? Had a couple of glasses of soda water with juice of a fresh lime. Which would have been about 3 cals per drink for the lime juice. Never has this happened before..guess I’ll just leave it at that.

CG good to know that you are being sensible. I imagined that Lexie would prove a little problem as they do like to butt you, so keep taking care. Taking care until next year and not overdoing it is great. There is pleanty of time to get back to exercise when you are completely healed. Hopefully get a good result from Dr. ????I can imagine you hurrying into the loo at the Chiro, lucky they have one in the building!?

SueJen . Thanks for the tip about the coffee. Will try it. The coffee shop I go to has stevia on the table so I find I have half a sachet of that to take the bitterness out of the long black. I am so lucky that I have an OH that loves to cook. I’d hate to have to cook dinner all the time. Spoilt rotten I guess. However he does have his frustrating moments when he wont put anything away anywhere in the house and I have to pick up after him all the time, or leave the house untidy. Can’t have it all I guess!!

GG good that you are enjoying your new job. It would be hard not giving advice I guess but I’m with you about not telling the clients you are an RN. You will certainly lose weight cleaning in this heat. Might be a blessing in disguise .. It was a hot day in this part of the world. Our posts must have crossed.
Well ti,e for the land of NOD???

Really missing posts from you Gyps…hope everything is OK with you.sending???

Fittoretire

11:17 am
11 Dec 15
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Hi All!
I’m with SJ on sneaking in a FD if at all possible, as this will help to limit the effect of holiday treats. I’ve been doing semi-fasts all this week because I had an outing every day and I’m still half kg down on last week. I know it’s different strokes for different folks and we all do this wol the way that works for us – but it’s good to share our ideas and maybe find the most effective way. I’m so afraid of seeing the same figure on the scales after Christmas this year that I saw last year, that I’ll do almost anything to avoid that!! (‘almost’…meaning I’m not quite ready to give up on all the treats! 😉 )
SJ – well done on staying under the 70 mark! It pays to keep a close eye, as things can run away with you very quickly if you don’t. Your home swap sounds like a brilliant idea; do you do that every year? Maybe we could do an Ireland/Oz swap sometime? Hope you find a good new physio….it’s no harm if she gets the idea that maybe she needs to change her attitude and work practices.
PH – I’m sure all that exercise and swimming is doing you good, so keep up the good work! How clever to be able to alter your own clothes and get more wear out of them; well done 🙂
Doggy – I agree with you about not wanting to be like the Grinch when you meet up with friends for nibbles and drinks….nobody want to be the party pooper! But it is amazing how well you can do with careful choices and moderation. YOU CAN DO THIS WITH AUSSIE DETERMINATION! Have a great time with family and friends xxxx.
GG – I can sympathise with you having to zip your lip with your clients….as a former teacher, I have to restrain myself at times when I see and hear children misbehaving while their parents pretend to be deaf and dumb!! Great loss too, woohoo!! 🙂
CG – I hope Lexie hasn’t done you any damage. Take care, dear pal – I know you love your four-legged friends but you have to love yourself too!! I’m sure you are being sensible and with the help of your chiro and some massage; I’m sure you’ll be right as rain.
Well, it looks like we’re having the calm before the storm here today so I’ll be getting lots of supplies in to keep us going for the next few days. Unfortunately, I’m supposed to be going into Dublin tomorrow for afternoon tea with my old school pals but it could be a complete wash-out. We’ll see what tomorrow brings. Have a wonderful weekend, eveyone, and pop your head in here for two minutes to let us know how you’re getting on. Xxxxx

Countrygal

11:39 am
11 Dec 15
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Hi team, thank you for the concern, I feel sorry for Lexie being on her own, normally I have three but was told not to get any for 12 months prior to my back surgery ( because of heavy lifting, hay, pellets and of course the nudging) then at least 12 months after but when Lexie came up on offer I couldn’r resist her. So being cautious with her but I like to spend hands on time with her too, her days must be long enough on her own and she gets so excited when I go down with the boys ? and I know it’s not melicious just typical calf behaviour. I’m thinking without the exercise from the pool at least maintaining my weight is better than gaining, so maybe my next lot of losing will not happen now till the new year. I’m not complaining one bit, still very happy with what I’ve achieved and being a size 12 in most clothes now.
Bed time on the farm team so off to zed land, sweet dreams all and see you tomorrow ☺️ xxxxxxx

Uptightoutasight

9:18 pm
11 Dec 15
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Hi all, sorry to be MIA and thanks for thinking of me Sj and Fit!

Yes, my work is done and dusted until sometime mid next year I think and thank goodness because it is a very fattening environment! No fasting I am afraid.

My daughter graduated from uni yesterday. A lovely day but more eating and drinking! I almost wore a suit that I had bought a number of years ago but immediately got too big for. I had been saving it for another child’s graduation and was determined to wear it to somebody’s! Tried it on and it fitted (hooray) but really it was very firm and a hot day here so didn’t wear it in the end. There will be more graduations at some stage so maybe then!I am pleased enough knowing that I could have worn it!

I have been reading everybody’s news. Ouch, CG!

I remember the Windies heyday totally! Seems like so long ago!

Really going to get back on track with fasting starting Monday but hoping to maintain with that through the silly season. Drinks tonight…..

Have a good weekend all.

Fittoretire

9:39 pm
11 Dec 15
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Hi there Up! So good to have you back again xx. Congratulations to your daughter on her graduation; what did she study? Great news about fitting into the suit – woohoo!! Hope you get some down time now and I know you will be back on track in no time! We will all be in this together over the silly season!! WE CAN DO THIS!!

Countrygal

9:49 pm
11 Dec 15
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Good morning team, good evening Fit, golly it’s cold here, two sets of jammies under my pillow STILL, it’s rediculous for this time of year. Washing both summer and winter clothes etc. Up, it’s lovely to see you back after such a busy time. It would have been very rewarding for you and enjoyable I hope. Like I’ve said to the team, I doubt a week would undo all the hard work, especially with you missing a few fasts ? even if a couple a k’s are gained over this season, I’d like to think they are fluid and will pass with a fast or two.
We are all learning to “manipulate” how 5:2 works for us all, I think the main difference is our portion sizes are so much smaller than they used to be ? so that’s gotta be good right? This time of year there is so many different taste sensations around and, my biggest downfall is fruit! I just can’t get enough, my fridge seems to have shrunk because I have so much in there ? I still don’t believe something so natural and unadulterated, from a tree can be bad for you. Even with the fructose, it would be so mimimal in comparison to the sugar in sweets, cakes and lollies etc. The jury is still out on the latest “fads” so who’s to say, next year fruit will not be the “in” product again ☺️ and of course the natural roughage with fruit is a bonus. Yes, I’m probably wrong, but still not giving up fruit, especially this time of year, oh those juicy mangos mmmmmm?
Have a lovely day team, it’s lovely to hear from those of you who have been MIA or just too busy to post, but you have to live YOUR life but may I add, your participation is really appreciated as with your support for the team. Stay well team, be gentle with your time, remember you ARE what you think, so be positive and good things WILL happen xxxxxx

purple hats

11:14 pm
11 Dec 15
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YAHOOOOOO,!!!!!..I don’t believe it, I think my scales must be playing tricks with me. I have weighed 3 times this morning and I am down to 98.1. From 99.9 Last Friday. And I have been away galavanting ..I must admit I was being mindful of not overeating or drinking so as not to get up over the 100 again. Have had one mini fast day and yesterday a super fast day..so pleased I decided to weigh today instead of leaving it till Friday.. Keep telling myself not to get too hopeful…..scales might have
. CG. . I think it must be all the beautiful fruit I have been eating..did substitute fruit for lunch on quite a few days as I am like you and love it…?????. Ha ha
Nice to hear from you UP and congrats ???To fitting into the Suit..must feel so good. I’m sure you deserve the rest from your full-on but very rewarding Job. You must be one very special person..and congrats to Daughter for her graduation, and that you have more to look forward to. I had three children complete University Degrees and not one of them would go to their graduation. Must admit that the boys were off somewhere when theirs happened and my daughter hates dressing up and being on stage. She was surprised to be elected School Captain in year 12 and really struggled with all the functions and speeches..so vowed not to do that anymore..that was perfectly OK with us.

Fit sorry that you visit to Dublin to see old schools may be washed out. That darn weather you have is a real bummer sometimes.. But as someone said before must be why Ireland looks spectacular most times. I just lived my trip to Ireland way back when. Would have loved to have known you in those days and visited.

CG you have done so well just to survive this last year and to be a size 12 into the Bargin is one big feat…bask in the glory of that for the silly season and resume losing more next year, if you feel the need.
SPECTACULAR. Achievement ????

A big Hi to all the gang. Looking forward to hearing from the ones MIA ..all with a very good reason I’m sure. ???
I’m off to decorate the hall for the annual Carols by Candlelight we put on for the children of the little village..it is on tonight and always brings a warm feeling to see the little ones , so innocent and singing their hearts out.?? ???????

Countrygal

1:04 am
12 Dec 15
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Thank you PH, yes I’m very happy, still going through the different sizes I DO wear, I still prefer comfort above anything, but had to down size on clothes -skirts and shorts especially- fall down ? and still have a lot of altering to do with my sewing machine. Even recent size 14 shorts are too loose! Trouble is with so many sales around it’s easier to buy new than start sewing! So it is true, our shape is altering even if the scales don’t show a loss ? It’s lovely to think this year we can all indulge in the Xmas “spirit” with out guilt because we eat so much less ☺️ the “greed” has gone, and that’s all it was, we never really ate to our full, we just kept eating because it was there. We have all learnt so many lessons with 5:2 it’s amazing. Enjoy the day, and we can achieve the impossible WE CAN DO IT ? xxxxx

gypsybell

2:18 am
12 Dec 15
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Gawd stone the crows! Fit, havta do something about that, mate…can’t have you hollering out on a limb….am going through the posts catching up as best I can, will report my loooong absence activities later….

gypsybell

4:07 am
12 Dec 15
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Nah, lost me fekk’n place now! Just have to wing it. So let’s see….

CG, I managed to check on your OP progress on my phone, but couldn’t reply as we were heading into the wilds at the time. Milena is giving you some good advice, so do take it on board. Your bourbon is aging nicely. So glad you are back in charge of us all, Carry on. Pres.

Noots, carry on avoiding the kitchen sink while you can. You’ll be HANDY again before you know it. Can sympathise as have got gout in my thumb. Amazing what you can’t do without a thumb! like operate a mouse for one! and yes, I know it’s a big toe complaint, but youse KNOW I do things differently! Anyway, it’s getting better. and thank God something stopped my gobble! have had a wonderful adventure of chocolate, wine and gourmet food in bush picnics. More on that later

UP, got that you are a goer for the WTF tour. Great stuff! Have to drain off the fruit and rebottle your mulberry gin this week. The visiting leprechaun wanted to polish it all off when I gave him a trial taste – goes VERY well with ice, soda water, a slice of lemon and a sprig of mint, bruised just so (must arrange to have on hand in Sydney – can you bring?) or GG, do you know if there is a place to buy same near our venue?

Dawg. Try chai oil, fresh lemon juice and organic, mixed herb salts as a dressing – combine in a small bottle (empty herb bottle is good)shake and sprinkle. Yummo, better than vinegar. lemon and olive oil and cumin powder is my dressing for homemade tabouli, lovely with all fresh parsley, mint, chives, spring onion and whatever else I fancy in the herbs from my garden. Bon appetite!

Suejen, Your little dress designs are so cute! love the bags and the flower just makes them! Love in every stitch. Kids remember that time, care and love you give them. Don’t give up on any of them. They’ll all be grown ups to pick your brain later on and you’ll have all kinds of fun with teenagers. Hope your your Christmas is all you deserve. hugs.

PH. You’re a legend! so happy your scales are moving Downwards! Our reunion draws nearer and I am so looking forward to meeting you all!

I have not, surprisingly, put on any weight, despite not having a hope of fasting with all the fun stuff we’ve been up to (and the Gawdmuther was in it up to her neck – hope to have some piccies on soon- just need time to get them of my !@#!!%*! phone). I am currently still zig sagging in the 85’s, but disappointed that photo’s don’t show me looking as good as my posing in the mirror! The flaps are swinging free! but at least they are not solid roundings now. I have to get back to my sag proofing exercises, but there’s only so many hours in the day! Had visitos for 10 days, sight seeing trips over the Kirrima ranges to Blenco falls, boat trips down croc infested rivers, Island bush walking didn’t pan out, but I haven’t stopped the food train shunting from stove, table, sink! and have the Ambulance Christmas ham raffles at the pub on Sunday morning, puff, puff. And the leprechaun’s medical checks have me heading for the city specialist two days next week, plus my son is coming home for the Christmas week. So who’s got time to be old?! bloody hot here. will get back as I find breaks in the jungle! But must say, having a great Christmas this year. The Tasmanian devil did a Santa and left me half a shop of Dan Murphy’s best wines for all occasions! So sipping on a South Island sav, Mmmm … but I hid the chocolates, my skinny son will devour them, and no doubt half a butchershop, pluss roast spuds. He’s a starving bachelor, so my work is far from done. I’m happy. Hope you all feel the joy of Christmas. Cheers! Gyps.

go gal

4:20 am
12 Dec 15
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Afternoon ADER’S….Had a busy morning helping OH do outdoor chores. Poor love he is not well at the moment down with “a summer cold” but he will soldier on regardless. He is now sound asleep with his ever faithful dog beside him.
GYPS- so good to hear from you! will bring mint with me for WTF….. just remind me.
UP- also great to hear from you.
We have all been busy ….getting our jobs out of the way before Christmas comes. BUT… do we ever stop?
Congrats on all the great loss achievements over the past week. You can and all are doing so well.
Keep BRINGING IT ON over the next week……We will be feeling and looking stunning for our Christmas parties…….love GO GAL XXXXXXXX

Countrygal

4:30 am
12 Dec 15
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Hi GG, nice to see you posting, poor OH, I bet you are looking after him really well,
Gyps all sounds good your end, I can “feel” you smiling ?
I’ve just (almost) finished tidying out my walk in robe, golly it gets in a mess, too many damn clothes but so many seasons in one day down here, I can change four times a day!
Hope you are all having a rewarding Saturday team, treat yourself, you deserve it. I bought my favourite, shouldn’t have, but weakened and got a custard tart, oh so fresh and yummmm plus rare I do it so enjoying every mouthfull ? xxxxxxxx

gypsybell

4:56 am
12 Dec 15
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Home

gypsybell

5:35 am
12 Dec 15
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I’m ready for Christmas. My little hut has seen many Christmases in a hundred and twenty years. (note the pioneering wood joinery done with an adze) I refuse to let this room be renovated. Such vibes of a pioneering nation! it echos my struggles to survive stuff I didn’t think I could. I found it covered in scrub vines and abandoned as too far gone and worthless. Just like I felt at the time. Today we shine together. All things are possible if one just keeps trying. NEVER give up ADER’S! You CAN do this!

CG, UP, if you look at the white set of drawers, you will see your drinks aging in glass containers. We will share great times, because we are the stuff this country was made of. Aussie determination! And honorary desciples of the spirit. Cheers! gyps

gypsybell

5:46 am
12 Dec 15
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Gypsy and the Gawdmuther. (or top heavy and bottoms up!) Gailo and I have different depositories of lard. Time was we could buy two outfits in different sizes and swap bottoms and tops to suit. here we are in the wilderness(cattle station territory outback) where we took the Tasmanian exploring a few days a go.

Uptightoutasight

6:11 am
12 Dec 15
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Ha, ha, good to see Gyps! I think I should be able to bring the mint!

Well, I must say I was disappointed with the photos of me at grad. Not as slender looking as I thought so determined to get back on the horse. Fit she did psychology with an extra honours year. The system is a bit different over here.
PH, well done!

suejen

7:00 am
12 Dec 15
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Hi Aders GYPS so good to see you back & see you in pics again. Had to laugh about you & the Gawdmuther being able to swap tops & bottoms to get your right sizes!! You certainly look like your place is ready for Christmas & all shiny bright & sparkly. And you haven’t put on any weight….amazing effort!!
UT I’d have to say the same about me & photos. I look in the mirror & turn sideways etc & think that’s looking much better. Then I see a photo & think Woah not so good at all!! Well they say the camera doesn’t lie so I guess it’s a true image?! Plenty of room for improvement I say.
CG wouldn’t worry about your custard tart after what I had for lunch though we did at least share the tiramisu!
PH WOOHOO on your 98.1 you’re really kissing the 100 goodbye aren’t you! Well done y friend. And socialising at the same time…impressive!!
Hey Fit would LOVE to do an Ireland/Oz swap sometime!! That would be great. Will let you know how our first one goes….just getting our toes in the water! Did you meet up with your old school friends or was it a wash-up?

Well today is a bit of a write-off but they happen this time of year. We had lunch at a winery & tonight we have a thank you dinner for the volunteers at Arts Margaret River who run the cinema etc. So will be a feed/drink day for sure! Will have to compensate tomorrow & eat light. Hope you’re all enjoying your weekend. Rest up CG & enjoy the cricket or whatever takes your fancy. You deserve it after your year. suejen XXXX

gypsybell

7:13 am
12 Dec 15
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My herb garden.

purple hats

10:28 am
12 Dec 15
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Oh gyps. It is so good to have you back. You do liven up the thread with your wonderful stories. Sounds like you have had a great time with your two leprechauns and the gawdmother. Well done. Life is for living after all …and you sure do have that down pat…the gormet food and drinks sound Fantastic! ??????
Love the pics, you and the gawdmother look great. And that sparkly living abode..super clean…can see the drinks aging I the glass containers..mouth watering in anticipation..

I’m with everyone re the photos. Look good in the mirror and then get a photo and it knocks the good feelings you have right out the window. Better not to have photos sometimes and go with the image in your head. I actually had one good photo taken at a niece’s wedding that looked great so I put it on the fridge for about a year..to remind myself that it is possible to look good occasionally.

CG I’m with you re cleaning out cupboards. I have decided every time I fix something and it fits again have to throw something out that is not quite right..just to keep things manageable. So after my sewing afternoon threw a number of things into the Op Shop bag. Good feeling. LOVE custard tarts..I too lashed out and had one last week.

SueJen, thanks for the comments, you certainly are having a great social life in the lead-up to Christmas. That is what life is all about at our age. Have done all the hard yards and now it is time to enjoy!

Just home from the carols by candlelight. The kids loved it. When we were taking the decorations down afterwards I commented that I was not sure I still had a Christmas tree and so one of the ladies suggested I just take the one in the hall home as it was already decorated. So OH picked it up and took it home. We only live about half a block from the hall, so that was a great suggestion..only in a small country town!! Love it!! Off to the land of nod..??