New bio thread for 2003

[w8ing2b]

Time to start a new bio thread for 2003. Many people come and go from this board and many of us stick around, so let's ring in the new year by clearing out the bio thread. You can copy and paste your old one to the new one and just make updates, that is what I did. ;)

My name is Dee, I am 52 years old and have been on WW since the week before labor day 2001. I joined BCB in november 2001 and it has made all the difference for me. I don't know if I would have had the support I needed to stay on program this long without this daily support system.

I have one dog Sady, she is a shihtzu-peekapoo mix and is 6 years old. She has mixed silver, white, grey, and black hair and my children joke about how her hair matches mine!! They are right, it does!!

I have been married for 34 years and I have three grown daughters ages 27, 29, + 33 and one son age 25. I have 3 grandchildren ( my oldest daughters) a boy age 16 and two girls ages 5+11.

I worked in a small photo finishing lab for 18 years and have been disabled due to chronic pain and overuse injuries.

I enjoy home decorating, scrapbooking, reading, movies, board games, and would love to take up oil painting.

I have been overweight in my head ever since I was 7 years old and was put on the diet table at the orphanage. I lived in a foster home for 9 years with a family that was petite in size and I am tall which led me to believe that I was a giant. My foster mother did not believe in snacking and it seemed like I was hungry all the time. So when I got married along with my marriage license I got a license to eat! I gained more weight with each pregnancy and then when I had chronic pain I became inactive and ate to ease my torment. The end result was a very obese middle-aged woman.

Over the years I tried many weight loss programs and lost weight on most of them but never reached my ideal weight. This time is different. I am doing it for myself this time and not for anyone else. It is what I want more than anything, to be thin in the second half of my life and not obese and unable to do anything for myself.

Tell us about yourself even if you have done it before and put in whatever you think is relevent.

[ November 02, 2003, 10:30 AM: Message edited by: w8ing2b ]

[kittycat]

Good idea, Dee. I'll copy my old thread and update it too.

My name is Pat, I'm 50 years old, and I live in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. I'm 5'7", brown hair (with lovely wisps of 'silver' starting to appear) and I've been married to DH for 21 years. We have one DS (20) and one DD (17), two dogs, three cats and an acquarium.

I was previously a legal secretary (in keeping with the times - now called a legal assistant/paralegal ;) ), but when my children were small, I was fortunate enough to be able to start working from home. I am self-employed, doing transcription work for various court reporters and the police department , which tends to keep me VERY busy.

I was fortunate enough to discover BCB about 11 months ago and although I haven't been as active lately with posting (will get back to it soon) I visit here daily for motivation, tips, recipes and just to find out what's going on in everybuddy's lives. :D I've even been lucky enough to meet another local BCB buddy (Shelac/Sheila) and we've met on several occasions for coffee and even a movie once AND to add icing to the cake (SF/FF of course :rolleyes: ) correspond by e-mail with several buddies.

Of late, my weight loss efforts are going s~l~o~w~l~y but with BCB and all the buddies here, I will continue OP and eventually reach my destination.

Next.....?
graemlins/wave.gif
PAT

[redhotmama]

OK, I'm next! Hi! My name is Diana and I live on the west coast of Canada on a small island pop. 1200. My DH is the island Postmaster and up until April of this year we also ran the general store where the post office is located. In April, we leased the business as we had been running it for almost 20 years. I do some of the baking for the cafe but it is only part time, which leaves me plenty of time to pursue my other hobby - Bootcamp! I joined WW last September and have lost nearly 60 lb. It has been hard but I am determined to get to my goal. I walk a minimum of 3 miles, 6 days a week, at a fast pace and now can out-walk my 34 yr. old DD! DH and I have two DD's, 34 and 31, the youngest is married and has 2 children. My grandchildren are a boy, 6 1/2 and a girl, 2 1/2. Our other DD is not yet married; she is a carreer girl doing real estate work. I am a quilter as well although it has fallen by the wayside since joining BCB - there are only so many hours in a day! I also am a mentor on this site and hope to help other buddies who are struggling with the program. This site is great and I have met some of the most compassionate, caring people here and I am proud to be a part of thecamaraderie that goes on here!

Addendum: December 28/02

I declared goal on Dec. 4/02 after being stuck for 4 months and have lost 65 lb. Want to get to a personal goal of 165 but I am going to work at that slowly and keep plodding along with the exercise. Some days I love it, others it is a chore. I am no longer a mentor having problems myself with losing but I have lots of buddies! Oh, I also am now auburn haired in an attempt to get rid of that nasty gray, although I earned every one of them!

Thanks, Dee, for getting this into the forefront again - a good way to start a new year! graemlins/thumbup.gif graemlins/wave.gif

Diana (AKA RHM) graemlins/wave.gif smile.gif

[WW-for-Life]

Updated version:

Hi, "everybuddy." I'm glad to add my "2-cents worth!!" I've been here at BCB for over a year now, and it has been the best inspiration for my weight loss. I've been a member of WW forever!! (reached lifetime back in the early 70's), but have fallen off the wagon many times. Fortunately, I keep coming back. This past time, with the help of all my buddies, I've been able to maintain for over two years. And, as my signature says, I'm a WW-for Life!!

I'm 64 , married 40 years the last day of last June. (June 30) DH and I have 4 grown children (all married) and 8 grandchildren.(The latest one born 6 weeks ago!) We love to travel (DH is retired but works part-time.) I also work part-time, although I don't know how much longer because of my health problems. (Have retired as of last week) I have a balance disorder that is affecting a good portion of my life. The neurologist has told me that my brain (the cerebellum) is degenerating and I am facing loss of the ability to walk, talk, and see. I've sought other opinions and they all seem to be the same - no treatment or cure for this "condition."

Because of this condition, I'm not able to exercise as much as I used to, so maintaining has become harder. I just have to work at it more!!

I love coming here to BCB and reading and posting. It really has helped me stay "OP."

[Merikathryn]

I am 54. Married to “Mr. Wonderful”, the mother of a daughter 31 who made me the grandmother of 2 boys 10, and 3 (who I helped deliver a few hours before my 50th birthday)she is a manager of a chain hair salon. Our son 22, graduated in May 2002, cumlaude with honors in Bio Chem, from an honors college with a degree in Bio Chemistry and Math. He worked in youth ministry and did an internship in Jan 2003 to May 2003. He just accepted a teach position at a Christian school. He will be teaching Biology, Physics and Bible. I have worked as an x-ray tech with nursing background, taught organizational skills to children in middle school with special needs, worked as personal assistant for president of a jewelry company of 27 stores in numerous states. My husband works in the state government.
I also have a cat, Chloe who is part blue Russian Siamese. We had to have our other Russian blue, Splinter, put to sleep on Dec 6. It was really a bad time for me as I had just returned from a week long stay back at the medical center. But my “Mr. Wonderful” helped me adopt Chloe the very next day. She lays with me in bed and sits with me on my lap. One night I was so sick I laid on the bathroom floor and she laid curled up by me purring.
In 1989 received the diagnosis of Rheumatoid Arthritis. Moved into Hershey, Pa. “sweetest place on earth”, in 1994 and at med center was told I had systemic Lupus, which has taken a kidney, given me 2 blood clots in the lung and left 7 other diseases associated with Lupus. Although lately the Lupus is winning and I am losing abilities to do things I really enjoy such as tatting, knitting, crocheting, and the computer I will not give up without a fight! I am very active in my church, which has supported our family with my numerous hospitalizations with prayer and meals. I praise the Lord that I have outlived the 5 years they said I had left. He plays a very important part in my life and I know I am still alive due to his wonderful grace. My one friend said that was because I am too spunky! I believe that it is a gift from the Lord. Each day has become a very precious gift to me.
Joined WW after I lost 60 pounds on my own with a diet I designed myself, but became to restrictive. Battling all these diseases I take over 48 pills a day to function and injections, and it has slowed the weight loss a lot. Sometimes staying OP I still gain a few pounds here and there, but am determined to win the race. Right now the doctors are more worried about me staying alive than dieting. Although they are all thrilled with the results so far. I have a team of doctors that oversee my many medical conditions. I am trying to stay as close to program as I can, but a big med change gave me back about 17 once lost pounds. I WILL get them off again. My group at WW is such a blessing. I was recently gone for over a month and when I came back they were all so wonderful and understanding. They call me and send cards and are such a great support team. I am blessed with many BCB who help sweep up the pieces and glue my back with support! I haven’t been around too much lately, but hope to do better next year. I enjoy hanging out with a bunch of “big losers”. I never thought I wanted to be a loser, but now I am one~and grateful to be one!

[shelac]

What a good idea Dee!

My name is Sheila. I'm 51, married for 3 years to current (and hopefully, last) husband and live in Calgary, AB, Canada. As Pat said, she and I have met for coffee - we actually live only a few blocks away from each other.

I work full time as an RN, which is definitely not my passion. Unfortunately due to pension and benefits, I'll probably work forever so I try to make the rest of my life as good as possible. I'm healthy, enjoy some sports (I actually registered for a Pilates class starting mid Jan. and bought a swimming pass - I got tired of going to Curves). My husband and I like to go on motorcycle holidays (he has a Gold Wing and no, I don't ride - I'm a passenger), but due to his business, it looks like I'll be doing most of my holidays alone. So I've booked a trip to New Mexico next fall with the continuing ed. dept. of our university for myself. I drive a little black VW Cabrio in the summer which is so much fun. I love gardening, read a fair amount, do some crafts. None of these things are things I do as much as I'd like - work has a nasty way of interfering with the rest of my life.

I have 2 daughters, a son in law, a boyfriend of one of my daughters, and a 4 month old grandaughter that I call my family. Also a stepdaughter who lives in another city. We have a big dog (husband is a hunter so dog is a retriever) and a little siamese X cat.

I first joined WW back in the mid 70s at a weight I'd love to be at now! My goal (which I reached) was ridiculously low and I think I maintained maybe, hmmm, about 10 minutes!! I figure if I lose 25 lb. I'll be happy. Not at my WW goal, but happy nonetheless. I do WW online and it's been good. I'm too impatient for the meetings and work shift so I can't go to a regular meeting.

Anyway, that's my story. Sheila

[leilani]

Hi my name is Lani and I joined Weight Watchers in Oct.2002 and started out doing good lost 3 lbs my first week, but now I average about 1 lb a week. Probably gained this week:0( Oh well I need to find an exercise program I can stick to, I have every tape there is I think but no motovation so far. That is one of my goals for 2003 get back into an exercise routine.:0( I hope to do much better since joining all of you. I am 51 and a nurse in Ohio. I have hypothyroidism which makes losing a little harder( a little) and osteoporsis which makes losing and exercising. mandatory. I hope to make many new friends here.
I have a great husband and 2 spoiled dogs and 3 spoiled cats.

[kap]

I also have copy/pasted with a few minor changes..Thanks for updating Dee graemlins/thumbup.gif

Well I guess it is my turn....My name is Kathy, I live in Cambridge, Wisconsin...am 59 yrs young 5'4"..previoiusly was 5'6" have brown/red/tones to my hair mingled with gray ..was married TO MY BEST FRIEND- wonderful man..he passed away in 1991 after 3 years of marriage..Now for the past 10 years I have a wonderful friend that I share my life with..I have two daughters (one murdered in 1983) and one son--ages.. 39-38-37... five beautiful grandchildren ages 13-11-6-4-4..Love them with my heart and soul. I have worked many years in the insurance industry..health & life insurance. Now I am not working..had a liver transplant Nov 2, 2000..I consider that my 2nd birthday..A brand new life to start anew because of a generous donor named Stephen AND GOD'S SPECIAL BLESSINGS EVERYDAY . I joined WW and Bootcamp around the same time..July of 2002..I have lost slowly and not expecting to lose quickly since I am on approximately 30+ different medications for anti-rejection and other health issues. But I am going to do it because of GOD'S LOVE, our OP program and all of the SPECIAL BUDDIES I have met since posting on this beautiful site..I consider them some of my greatest friends..we can share anything and know that they will understand..
I love to be on my computer (especially bootcamp) and e-mail my Grandkids in Florida alot..love to read, garden, cook and just ENJOY LIFE.. ONE DAY AT A TIME!!! graemlins/bcbsalute.gif

[JACOB'S NANA]

Okay here goes...I couldn't get the old one to copy and paste, so now you know that I am no computer whiz!...anyway...
Hi..I'm Norma.... I live in Adamsville Alabama(a suburb of Birmingham). I joined WW in April of 2002, and have to date lost 30 lbs....s-l-o-w-l-y., but surely....almost at goal..need to lose about 10-15 more pounds...I have been married for 36 years to my high school sweetheart(and he is still a sweetheart!)...we have a son Scott who is 33 and he has a son Jacob who will be 6 in March. We also have a daughter Traci who is 31 and she has a son Brennan that will be 5 in May..she is expecting another little boy to arrive in April 2003....
My husband works with United States Steel and is currently thinking about retiring after 33 years..We were in the Air Force stationed in Tacoma Washington for the first 4 years we were married and loved it.....beautiful country out there. I worked for a few years at our local school teaching K thru 4th grade children how to use a computer, but for the most part I have been a stay at home mom... We both are currently working at the Birmingham Jefferson Civic Center with security..we started out ushers 28 years ago and now do security at concerts and other events there.I am also a ticket taker which is lots of fun. This is my outlet from being at home all the time, and also gives me some pocket change! LOL.. I love to read and swim....
Scott and Jacob are living with us(no empty nest for us!)...we are helping raise Jacob since his mother left him with my son shortly after his 2nd birthday...I enrolled him in Kindergarten this year and he is loving every minute of it...My grandchildren are the loves of my life....
We lost our 2 dogs after keeping them for many years..we had 2 Besingi's(barkless dogs) that were wonderful pets..very good with our children....we now have 1 solid black cat that is spoiled rotten!....
I found the BCB site shortly after joining WW by clicking a link on another WW site...haven't been back to that site since...this is by far the best site ever...I have been lucky in making many new friends here on BCB and they are a huge help in my struggle to stay OP...without their love and encouragement I don't think I would have ever done as well as I have....I thank each and every one of you for this!..and anyone who doesn't believe we live up to the Fit and Sexy part just check out our picture trails!....LOL..we have lots of fun too!.....

[Luanne]

What a good idea to update this for 2003. I did the copy-and-paste thing also, with a couple of updates.

I'm Luanne, and I'm 52. I'm a native Californian, born and raised near Los Angeles and living in the San Francisco Bay area for the past 22 years. I'm currently on husband #2 (last and best, LOL). No kids from the first marriage, which is why I'm an older mom now. I have 2 dds, ages 14 and 12. I work full time and spend my free time with my kids, surfing the internet and reading, among other things.

I was of a normal weight (although I always felt heavy) through high school. I gained a bunch in college and have struggled ever since. I tried various "diets" over the years and my highest weight was 175. I finally joined WW for the first time in 1991 after the birth of my 2nd dd. I lost the weight quickly, went down to 135 pounds and kept it off for several years. Then "stuff" happened (foot surgery to start off with) and the weight started to creep back on. With menopause it seemed that the last 20 pounds just jumped right on and before I knew it I was over 200 pounds!!!! :eek: graemlins/sobbing.gif :eek: I went through a period of thinking that I would just learn to accept myself as a large woman. But several things convinced me otherwise. I had to go on medication for high blood pressure, I realized I was tired all the time, I couldn't bend over easily and it looked like if I didn't do something soon I was going to have to have my wedding ring cut off! graemlins/ugh.gif

So, enough was enough. I consulted with my doctor on September 7, 2001 and on September 8, 2001 I marched in to the nearest WW center and re-joined. Since I was a Lifetime member I didn't need to pay the registration fee and I only pay for meetings I attend (one small benefit ;) ). But I proudly say I have only missed a very few meetings (due to vacations), and I have been OP since that day! :D I reached goal the beginning of August, 2002 and plan to stay there this time!

[Beth7Happy]

...a somewhat revised, yet somewhat copied and pasted:

ahhh HA! Here's where one posts a 'bio'! Do you want the short-condensed version?? ...or the Wordy-from-Windy?? *giggle* ..okay, the short one!

Here goes:
Born on a mountain top in Vermont..'way back in the Spring of 1950. (Momma had me that year so that I could have an easy time of figuring out how old I was!) My childhood was a happy time of running thru the woods and hills, picking wildflowers and strawberries. Not surprisingly, I turned into a Flower Child in the 60s, but thank God, I wasn't toooo hard on my parents! I was always a skinny kid, but then married in January 1971, and after my daughter, Kati was born in 1974 I had a battle to get the weight off. Got it off then..but when JoeyD was born in 1976, weeeelll..it's been a MAJOR battle since then!

We moved from Vermont to Florida in early 1977 when Joey was just a couple months old...I was lonely, depressed, didn't know anyone. My pity party had LOTS of food for comfort..and became a way of life. SOMEtime, back in the 80s, I joined Weight Watchers and lost some 40 pounds..I know I did, because I have this gold key (for LifeTime Members)...I just NOW dug it out and put it here on my desk to remind myself that if I did it once, there is no reason that I can't do it again...and with support like I'm finding here...those pounds won't find their way back!

Presently, I'm owner and operator..sole proprietor and the only work dog of my business, Hangups by Beth. I primarily do wallpaper installations, but as often as possible, I do a bit of interior design work, too! I love music and reading, painting on lil wood things and even try to use watercolors abit... I love birds and flowers...my wonderful family -ESPECIALLY my grandchildren, Ian and Caroline, and my fabulous friends...and God! And, as the year turns to 2003, I'm contemplating starting a new business of manufacturing and marketing ComfortCozys..they're 'heating pads' warmed by the micro...or can be frozen for sprains, etc.. We'll see. At this point they are selling faster than I can manufacture, but I've yet to have a chance to market! My intent is to try to stay off the ladders a bit more, as my age seemingly continutes to increase!!

BootCamp has become a way of life for me; I can't stay away very long. The enthusiasm, inspiration and encouragement from all of you other Buddies is helping my journey to be quite easy...I'll be forever grateful to Denise...the founder of this site ~~~~~~~~~~~~~!!!!!!!

Thanks, Denise...for starting this site!!!!

P.S. Aren't you glad you got the 'condensed version' ???

[djc2]

Hi everyone smile.gif
My name is Jean and I am 50. I am a RN (seems to be lots of nurses on bcb) I live in Wa. state on the Idaho border. I am originally from Texas, lived in Calif for 9 years and then moved up here in 1982. Love the Northwest. I rejoined WW in April 2002 at my highest weight
and have done fairly well. down 40 lbs. I do also struggle sometimes due to mediations that I take for a kidney transplant I had 4 years ago. My sister generously shared one of hers with me smile.gif I usually hang out in the 100+ forum and really enjoy BCB . I don't think I would have done as well without all my Buddies support.
Jean

[CarlaKay]

Thanks for doing this, Dee. I went back and read the old bios and we have indeed changed! Mine was so off, I decided to just re-do it instead of copying and changing. So here goes...
My name is Carla and I am 55 years old. There are days I feel that age, but mostly it surprises me to realize how old I am. I am married to my childhood sweetheart. We met when I was 16 (3 days after Kennedy was shot) and dated through high school. We got married in the spring of 69. We have 2 children, Eric,30 and Ann,28. Both married, but Ann is the one who made me a grammy. Two grandchildren, Ryann 5, and Cooper 4. They are the best things that have ever happened to us. I was lucky enough to stay home with my children as they grew up and have been known as the part-time job queen. My longest and favorite job was as a receptionist at a busy hair salon. Loved it and the people I met there. I live very close to DD and family so see my grandbabies nearly everyday. My DS lives about 1 1/2 hours away and I don't get to see him as often as I like. I am anxiously awaiting more grandchildren to spoil! When I am not with my family or on the computer, I love to read. I have been very active in my church, but since changing churches, I have kept a low profile. I think it is time to let the younger gals do some of the work, don't you?
My diet history is up and down. I spent a childhood of being a beanpole. Was 118 when I got married. Didn't take me long to get to 135 and then I got pregnant. After #2 child, I did get down to the 120's again, but it didn't last. For my 20th class reunion, I joined WW and reached 137 (looked fantastic for that summer!). I have since joined WW 3 times, never reaching goal UNTIL this time. I re-joined WW and found BCB in May 2002. By September, I reached lifetime and have maintained since. I know without a doubt that I could not have done this without the encouragement and support of my buddies. F&S has been the lifeline I needed. A day without BCB is a day without sunshine!!

[phdwannabe]

Wow! Our lives do change in just a few months! My turn!

I am a first grade teacher in an inner-city school in Anaheim, CA and have been teaching for thirteen years. Typically I have a high poverty rate in my classroom, (this year 100% free lunch, but no welfare: these parents often work two jobs each and still can't make it without some help) and I may have up to 8 languages in the classroom in any given year (this year 4). I love my job!

I am also a Ph.D. candidate at Claremont Graduate University studying educational measurement and cognitive develpoment, so a lot of statistics and theory about how our brains work. The best thing I ever did for myself was to begin college at age 31. I'm doing the Ph.D simply because I love going to school. It's the fulfillment of a life-long dream. When people ask me what I'm going to do with the degree my answer is simple, "I'm going to teach first grade." I'll work for the rest of my life, I think, just to pay off my student loans.

I have a small home that I like to work on and a large back yard that I just can't keep up with! I'm handy and I love the home improvement stores. I'm also an amatuer naturalist and love to go camping and hiking. My winning outcome/long-term goal is to climb a mountain this coming summer.

I have two sons, two daughters and a daughter-in-law, all in their twenties. I also have one granddaughter living with me who is the light of my life (17 mos.). My mom is now being evaluated for hospice due to very advanced Alheimer's and an irreparably broken hip, and I think I'll lose her very soon. (Update, Mom passed away february 12, 2003.) Strange that I lost her gray fuzzy cat to arthritic hips just a few weeks ago. I have a tortoise shell cat (now 17) and a polydactyl calico (now 1) who grew up and got frisky while I was sitting for months by my daughter's bedside at USC' trauma unit. As result I also have an adorable six-toed little calico kitten (I love calicos) so now I'll have a matched pair for my old age.

I've been blessed with good health. I rarely visit the doctor and take no meds, a thing for which this forum has made me grateful. I do have a bad right knee, so I have to exercise around that. My weight history is different, I guess. I was very thin (112 and 5'7" when I married) even after the births of my children. When I started teaching at age 39 I was a size nine. Since then fast food and age have conspired against me. I joined WW for the first time in August. I've never been on a diet before, and from what I understand I'm not on one now. I need this life change, and I'm glad to find a group of buddies who will support me in making it!

Lynn

[Raindancer1937]

Hiya, graemlins/wave.gif

My name is Kathryn but everyone calls me Katy. I live in Florida by way of upstate NY. I lived in Warrensburg for a period of 4 1/2 yrs. I was born and raised in Southern California. But have lived up and down the coast of California. I have been in Florida since 1977. I am 65 yrs young and retired from Tropicana Products, Inc. here in FL.

I joined WW after a trip to CA when I saw pictures of myself. I knew I had packed on the pounds when I retired, then I stopped smoking and it was a losing battle. I joined WW on 8/16/02 and since then have lost 53. lbs. Slow and steady. Joined BCB shortly after that. Started on another site and found this one and haven't been back to the other one. :D

I come from a large family 6 brothers and 2 sisters. Not all of my brothers are with us anymore but my dear sisters are still here. I am an American Indian. I am also a widow, but have been involved with a wonderful man for the past 12 years. I love to read and now I like the computer...ride my bike, go to the beach and just about anything that involves being outside. I am going to start back in on my sewing, like to play my keyboard and flute. Music is in my life a lot. I do not have any children, just never happened. I'm almost glad because I have been married 3 times. I don't plan on getting married anymore. But one never knows, does one? I love to entertain, love when people come to visit. I was raised that way, we always had company for dinner, what's one or two more anyway. I cannot think of anything else at the moment, if I do I will update. I hope to get to know everyone better in 2003.

I will reach goal in 2003, I know that my losing this weight so far is because of all the wonderful people I have met on this site. I have learned so much and I'm motivated. It is hard when you haven't had to worry about your weight, and then Mother Nature deals the blow when you get older, but life is good and it stays interesting.

It is now Oct of 2003 and I still haven't reached my goal. I came as close as 9lb and then life dealt me another blow. Within a period of 3 months I lost my DS Donna Rae and my DM as well. I am still determined to reach goal. However it might not be until 2004 but I shall. I have made many, many good friends here on BCB and hopefully will continue. I re-read my bio and noticed I did not tell you about my dog. His name is Sgt. Dog and he is a mutt, but I love him dearly. I now in private call him Velcroe (sp) dog. He is my constant companion.


Best to everyone and have a wonderful year (2003) .

katy graemlins/bcbsalute.gif

[ October 16, 2003, 08:04 AM: Message edited by: Raindancer1937 ]

[Meg4224]

My name is Marlene (Meg) and I'm 55! Married to the same "gentle" man for 33 years and we have 4 children, 33, 31, 26 and 24 plus two terrific grandsons, 6 and 2. I'm a secretary at a credit union and just love it! I stayed home for 17 years to raise a family. Traveled around the east coast while in the Marine Corps for 27 years. Now that we've semi-retired, we're trying to decide where we want to fully retire in a few years!

This is the last time I plan on having to lose weight because I'm no longer on a diet - I'm on a journey to totally change my eating habits - behavior modification I call it! I've been on WW since last August 2001 and posting here in BCB since September 2001(I think). I made lifetime in October 2002! graemlins/crazy.gif I have met the best people on earth right here in the F&S forum! You guys are great and have kept me motivated which is no easy feat! Keep up the good work and welcome to all newcomers!

[trying-again]

Great idea to re-introduce ourselves.

I'm 56 and I've been married for 36 years. I have four sons, aged 34, 32, 31, 28 and three granddaughters. I'm lucky that 3 of my sons live locally so I get to see them and the grandkids often.

DH and I just built our dream house with an eye towards retiring in a few years. Then, after 27 years, the company decided to transfer him to Maryland. We decided to keep the house and he works down there and comes home on weekends.

I'm 5'6" and am starting at 188 lbs. with a goal of 150 lbs.

[luv2sew]

I turned 56 in May. I was married to my first husband for 15 years and have three adorable children. Gina is 35 married and two adorable step grand daughters. Mike is 32 married and one adorable grand daughter. Ginger is 29 married and 1 adorable grand daughter and my pride and joy my only grandson. I work as a computer drafter. Have been drafting for 30 years but on the computer abut 2 1/2 years. Married to my second DH for almost 22 years now. We have an adopted son who is almost 16. During our marriage we have also raised 27 foster children 3 of which we graduated from high school and then married off. I live just outside of Nashville, Tennessee. I love to do anything with my hands. I love to sew, knit, crochet, cross stitch,scrapbook and play on my computer. Unfortunately there are not enough hours in the day. We lost a long-haired dachsaund (dh baby ) to Lupus last year. We have a 14 yearold Dachsaund named Pootie and a miniature lon haired dachsaund named peanut. I just got a new puppy, his mother was miniature pinscher and ? and his dad was dachsaund and bulldog. He is adorable and quite a little character. My youngest DD has opened her own gym and it is growing by leaps and bounds. She had hoped to have 300 students by the end of the third year and she opened the door with 332. I don't get to post as much as I would like but I try to at lease say hello every day. Clara

[ November 12, 2003, 04:44 PM: Message edited by: luv2sew ]

[parklady]

http://www.mouse.webby.com/images/klfrcd.jpg

My name is Sharon, I'm 59 years old/young,(will be 60 this month) I started WW Jan 2001 and reached lifetime July 2001, I joined this boaard in March 2001. It would have been harder and taken me longer to reach goal without the help of all you buddies. Thank you all for the support.

I have 1 golden retriever dog who is 6 1/2 years old named Moka. I have 1 cat who is 5 1/2 years old named Muffin. We adopted the cat about 8 months ago.. Moka and Muffin love each other and sleep together.

I am in my second marriage. I have been married to DH for 21(22 this May) years. I have two older children from 1st marriage. DD 40 and DS 38. Have a DS 14 from present marriage. DD has given me 1 DGD age 3 1/2 years and a DGS age 8 years, they live 2 hours away. Older DS has given me 1 step DGS 11 years old(his wife's child from her 1st marriage) and a DGS age 8 months. They live in GA.

I am a retired legal secretary. I met my present husband at Legal Aid in northern CA. He now has his own practice in the Bay Area. I also worked at City of Berkeley and retired from there 14 1/2 years ago(took early retirement so I could be home with DS). I am a native Californian.

I enjoy being with my family, walking, reading and taking care of dogs and cats. I also volunteer at the Berkeley Humane Society.

I enjoy posting on this board and reading about all the buddies and putting gifs in my post.

I have made many friends here. Some I even email. The rest I keep in touch by pm and posting here.

Prayers and hugs to all.

Sharon/parklady

[lorrainelockly]

http://us.greet1.yimg.com/img.greetings.yahoo.com/g/img/usag/nyear3_tn.gif

Happy New Year to all! I never added my bio to this thread last year, so might as well start the New Year off right! :D

I turned 55 last month and .........could I just stop there?? Where did this ancient bio come from??? I had updated one a long while back, but guess I'll do a quickie here since this one turned up.

I'm 57, married 39 years now. I work full time in an engineer's office after being in insurance for 9 years. This is a new job and I really like it so much better than what I was doing. DH, Tom, is a probation officer with the state of Florida. We have 3 grown children and 5 grandchildren, all are in this area. Our son and his wife split up over a year ago and he came back here from Calif. nearly a year ago. His 2 precious little girls are out there and the 3 yr old I've never seen, the 5 yr old I haven't seen since she was 19 mos.
I also have a 3 yr old grandson (middle daughter) and teenage DGS and DGD (oldest daughter).

To complete our family we have Lady and Julie, or cat and dog. The dog is a Rat Terrier that we just got from the shelter, and Lady came from the shelter over a year ago. They are both wonderful.

I love to draw portraits from pictures and am starting a business in that. It is so enjoyable! I also love to crochet, but hardly find time, do painting (oils, watercolors and craft painting), make wreaths, etc. I enjoy bird-watching and gardening. Time for all of these is at a premium with working full time, but the portrait-drawing is number 1. I have my work on picturetrail.com that you can see.

I love to read about everyone......it's a great way to learn who we all are!

[jadeturtle]

Hi....I'm Robin and I'm a native Californian. I was 60 in July. My DH and I have been married 37 years and have two adult children (twins, 1 each) and no grandchildren. Instead, we have grandcats. I'd love to have a dog but my work leaves me short on time to care for one so we have Cody--a spoiled, much-loved bluepoint Himalayan cat. When I retire I'm going to get a dog, probably a Golden Retriever--I'll love having a dog to walk with! I have a varied work history which includes heading up the quality assurance program for a CPA firm, teaching college English, writing, and editing. I went back to school in my forties and these days I'm a mental health therapist and work for a non-profit organization as director of a program for the severely mentally ill homeless/poor. I see at least 20 psychotic patients a day in addition to directorial duties and I love it. I think perhaps I work too hard and am in the process of reallocating my priorities.
I'm 5'8 now (I used to be 5'9....how come we shrink vertically but not horizontally?) and have abundant silver in my once-dark hair....people generally refer to me as "distinguished-looking" and I think that's a nice way of saying "old-but-hanging-in-there." I've always dieted periodically to lose 5 or 10 pounds, but ballooned up to 248--started gaining about 12 years ago and got into a rut...overweight, overtired, eating easy foods...and developed the usual unpleasant health problems that go along with that amount of weight. Tried so many diets and in desperation tried WW--I LOVE it! Never felt this good ever before! WoW! Joined BCB in early January 2002 and it has become a major part of my life. I do love you all!
My hobbies are reading, walking, hiking, playing the dulcimer, music of all sorts--everything from high Renaissance dance music to gritty Delta blues, playing tournament gin rummy, and cooking. After being with those who are severely mentally ill all week, I cherish my quiet time. However, I love good friends and a good laugh always!

[WA126]

Hi Buddies,

I am a Lifetime member of WW getting to goal in 1977 but fought to keep it off over the years as a YO YO. One thing that I never added to the program was exercise. I "rejoined" WW Jan 2001 and also joined a gym. I have lost 80 lbs. and when I was so busy walking this summer I had lost 85 lbs. I walked a marathon 26.2 miles in Oct. and then got really busy, and really sick. So I am looking forward to getting back at it! I have been married for 32 years and have 2 grown daughters and two beautiful Grandchildren Kylie Age 4 and Gabe Age 2. My youngest daughter will probably be announcing an engagement soon so I would really like to be to my personal goal by then. I have posted on BCB off and on this last two years, and hope to become a bit more involved.
I live in Washington State and it is really pretty but we get a lot of rain on the west side of the state. So not much outside exercise until late spring. I love to ride my bike which I bought for myself for my 50th BD.

HAppy New year Everyone!

debbie

[JeanetteSki]

Ok, my turn for updates and pasting party --

I'm 59 (boy, I don't remember getting to that number), 4'11, brown hair (which has to be dyed every now and then), hazel eyes, and was at goal at one time, but have regained about 30 lbs, which won't budge.

I'm an Office Manager (which means I get to buy the paperclips and rubberbands)with an interior design studio that renovates churches. It can be very interesting and very demanding and most of my client/customers provide lots of fun and laughs at the workplace for me.

I have 2 daughters, one surviving with 8 grandchildren (7 adopted, 1 biological), and one beautiful daughter deceased with a totally beautiful surviving granddaughter, 7 years old, who is the light of my life and gives me reason to get up in the morning. My DD, Aimee, died having her first child. I'm still trying to deal with that and probably will the rest of my life.

DH and I have been together for 38 years, some good, some bad, but still together nonetheless. You probably wouldn't guess this, but I'm not the easiest person to live with either. LOL.

I just found BCB about a three-and-a-half years ago and I've been posting ever since. I've made lots of wonderful friends here who really care about my journey and the direction my life takes me. I look forward to meeting and becoming friends with all who care to indulge me. If you're interested in my pictures, you can go there by clicking on my picture trail URL in my signature line.

[jefrado22]

They say the definition of insanity graemlins/crazy.gif is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results - well, that's me!

I think I went to my first WW meeting when I was 16 (back in the days of liver and making your own catsup!!) when I WASN'T a fat teenager but thought I was. My stinkin' thinkin' has kept me in trouble ever since!!! I think I've done this 4 (or 5??) times now, but decided when I turned 50 (Aug 02) that I was NOT GOING TO DIE FAT! So this time has got to be it (and hopefully WILL BE thanks to all my new buddies - I no longer feel I am fighting this battle ALONE)!!!

2 kids, 2 dogs, 1 hubby (tee hee), have lived in Cleveland my adult life.

Oh, did I mention that I have perfectionistic tendencies???
I am working on that, too!! :eek: :D ;)

[Greenbrier]

Hello everyone. I am a West Virginia speech therapist. I am 54 (I think? I have to add it up each time... I still think I am 30 something!) I have been a life time member of WW since 1977! I have had to rejoin several times to get back to where I need to be AND HERE I AM AGAIN!
Married, 4 grandchildren...love to talk, walk, travel, family, church, friends, and my computer! (not in that order!)

My DH is retiring at the end of this school year from directing a junior high marching band. That has been a big part of both of our lives. Changes in the air! I have one more year of work with public schools and then will continue to do my home health business more actively.

Presently, Jan. 2003, I am struggling to get back on program. I am still trying to get to my personal goal of 140 but it is a bit farther away since the holiday season!

Thanks for all the motivation.

[Ginaki]

I can't find the old one, so here goes.

I am a retired New York City Board of Education secretary (to Principal). I worked for over 30 years in that system and have now been retired for 6 years.

I have been a WW for many years, but since WW went to the winning points system I had never been able to maintain my weight. However, I am now at my 22nd month where I have been at or below goal.

I have 2 sons, ages 40 and 41 neither of whom are married. Therefore, I have no grandchildren to dote over, but have a beautiful tabby cat, Anais, whom we love early.

I am so grateful I found BCB and some of the other web sites for WWs. The encouragement and support I have found, I am sure, have been the secret of being successful this time.

[justbarb]

Hi, I'm Barb and I've been in WW and on this board since the spring of 2002. I work with Renee (G-Ma) and she got me into both I'm pretty WW and this group.. (Thanks, Renee!)I'm an IT Specialist -- whatever that is! -- and have worked for the Executive Office of the President for almost 25 years. When I'm not working, I play bridge or read. I have a husband (Eric) and four wonderful cats. Eric and I are planning to get a puppy in the near future -- our 15 year old dog died last summer. I'm 52, but I'm working hard at staying young.

I'm hoping to make lifetime at my WI next Tuesday (01/07/03), but three weeks between meetings may have taken its toll. (Sigh... someday, I'll buy a scale.)

I'm delighted to be here. Everyone is so supportive and it feels like a family.

[justbarb]

"I'm pretty"? That's what I get for cutting and pasting. That should have read "she got me into both WW and this group". Sheesh!

[G-Ma]

Hey Barb you are so welcome! I really love that we work across the hall from each other and that we can bounce off each other in our journey.

Now here's my c&p update:

My name is Renee and I turned 50 in September, I'm a divorcee, who just received my engagement ring from a wonderful, supportive DF. He is an entertainer and sings beautiful love songs. I have met a lot of celebraties since we met 4 yrs ago. I have 3 children, 2 DDs (24, married to a navy man and is expecting again in May(I think) and (turned 18 in Dec. and attends college studying Criminal Justice) and a DS (22). I also have two adorable DGS's, 5 and 3 and one on the way.
I am a web designer/developer at the Executive Office of the President/White House and I have my own little business doing the same thing. I am very active at my church, creating the weekly bulletin and teaching seniors how to use a computer twice a week. I joined WW years ago when the program was a little stricter than now so I know that this time I'll reach my goal.

[w8ing2b]

Bump!! :D

[ShrinkingMo,]

The new and updated version!

Hi, my name is Julie and I was born in Detroit and moved to CA when I was 16. I’ve been overweight nearly all my life. I was thin several times but gained back after each loss. I’ve joined WW several times, even back when you had to have liver once week, yuk. I think I’ve lost enough pounds to make two human beings. THIS TIME ITS FOR REAL. I’m doing it more for my health than anything.

I’ve been married for 34 yrs this past November. Have two children. DS is 30, a sheriff’s deputy, married and living in North Carolina. DD is 26 (also a BCBer, MiniMo) and currently living with us. She refers to herself as a boomerang. DD brought her cat of which now we refer to her as “Our Grand-cat” since we have no grandchildren. She and her BF of 3yrs broke up a year ago this past September and she moved out and asked if she could move back with us…how could we say no. For her to find a place in Southern California for under $1,000 a month, .is unheard of unless she has several roommates, soooo she lives with us.

I work part-time as an accountant, bookkeeper, etc for a building contractor. Our projects are usually of estates costing in the millions. We have several clients that have been in the entertainment industry. Very interesting what they want built.

Surprisingly since I’m on the computer at work a lot, I don’t mind it here at home, especially going into the BCB page and reading everything I can.
I get between 15-20 e-mails from friends each day at home, so I’m busy doing a lot of reading and answering them.

I love going to the beach. My favorite pass time, weather permitting. I have several other friends who love the beach and we all spend a lot of time there together just sitting around sharing stories, recipes or whatever the topic is….maybe a movie someone saw or TV show or just the latest happenings in the world…..what a great bunch of gals they are.
My home is decorated as if it were a beach house………I WISH IT WERE!! ! But I live in a regular old house about 1½ miles from the beach. So you’ll hear me mention the weather a lot in my postings about the weather or whether I made it to the beach or not.

I’m glad I found this web page and belong to a great bunch of losers as myself. Their support has been tremendous and I look forward to getting to know all my F&S buddies.

[CathyJ]

Hi, I’m Cathy. I’m 52, married for almost 31 years, no kids. I have two spoiled cats, Nutmeg (who’s diabetic and overweight – kitty Weight Watchers, anyone?) and Beauty (who’s black, fluffy, and athletic). I live in St. Louis, but grew up in small-town Nebraska and hope someday to retire someplace smaller than St. Louis, preferably in a college town.

I first joined WW in the ‘70s, reached goal, became lifetime, quit going to meetings. This is at least my fourth time in WW. I’ve been back since late August, when I reached my all-time high weight (actually, I’d been there for awhile, but had gotten very scale-avoidant). I hope to reach goal in 2003, although, since weight loss may slow down as I get closer to goal (and I don’t lose exceptionally fast anyhow), it may be 2004 – and that’s okay. I am determined to stay at goal and keep attending meetings after I reach goal this time.

I work three days a week as a computer programmer – thought that I’d get tons done at home if I cut back my work schedule, but so far, that hasn’t happened (and I’ve been part-time for almost a year now). I also have a library science degree, but have been more successful at finding programming jobs than library jobs.

My main hobbies are reading and creative writing (poetry and fiction).

Cathy

[CarlaKay]

Bumping up for new people! ;)

[redhotmama]

Bumping up for any newbies!

[redhotmama]

bumping up!

[Lyn]

Hi Everyone,

Can an Aussie add her little bit. I'm a lifer from wayback. Joined WW in the late seventies and reached goal weight. I have reached it 3 or 4 times since too. (Clever or stupid!?) I turned 50 in Aug 02 and my daughter (32)made me the proud Nanna of two beautiful grandbabies (Twins.)in Feb 02. One of each variety. IVF bubs so they are real special!! The problem being I live on the West coast of Australia and they live on the East coast. TOO Far away.

I also have a son too (30). He's not married. Very independent spirit.

My DH runs his own Computer business. (POS Systems, computers, (business and home pc's) I do the bookwork for him.

I did start out to do accounting but meno..... hit and I got all cloudy headed and couldn't concentrate or even think straight and had to call it a day. I loved it too.

Thanks for taking the time to hear an Aussie warble

Lyn graemlins/wave.gif

I love most forms of crafts. I did such a lot of sewing when my daughter was pregnant, I am having a break from it at present. That is I am so-o-o-o over the baby clothes bit. Everything was done in double quantities.

I don't go to WW at present. I have the WW CD and am tracking with that and hopefully a bit of support from all you lovely people, and I'll be home and hosed.

[Sunflwr1]

New to BCB, but not WW. I joined WW nearly 3 years ago... lost around 28lbs. and have gained most of it back! This time it's going to be a lifestyle change and not considered a diet!

graemlins/wave.gif I'm Marcia... 52 years old, been divorced for eons, with 2 grown children. My son Ben is nearly 29, married and has blessed me with a darling grandson Derek who's 2-1/2. My daughter Debbie, nearly 25 lives and attends school in North Carolina. I live in Rockford, IL with my 2 silver persian (Wolf and Puffer)where I've worked for the same dentist for almost 17 years! Eeegads! How did that happen :eek:

At this point I'm not going to rejoin WW... I know what to do, what to eat so I'm going to try it on my own and with the help of BCB. I've rediscovered my crock pot and that has really helped to have a good meal all ready when I get home from work. One of my major problems was to get home, starving and nothing healthy ready to eat. I was tired and didn't feel like cooking so I'd grab something fast... like a bag of cheetos. Not a good thing!

It's been so wonderful here at BCB, ready your stories, seeing your accomplishments, your failures and knowing I'm not alone. I've also been getting some fabulous recipes!

So begins my new lifestyle smile.gif

[Lindyloo]

Hi. My name is Linda and I am 55 years old and live in central NY. I have been married to my wonderful husband for 35 years. We have 2 boys and 2 girls who are all out on their own now. We also have 4 grandchildren, 3 of which live in Michigan so we travel there quite frequently to visit. We also have 2 miniature pinschers named Abby and Nina.
I previously worked as a certified nurses aide for 21 years. I finally gave that job up due to back problems. Currently I am a cashier at a school cafeteria. It gets me out of the house a few hours a day and I enjoy the kids.
I have been a member of BCB since May 2000 but haven't been active with my posting.I have joined WW numerous times but this time I am determined to stay OP and rejoined 1/2/03.My weight is causing medical problems and I am taking medications that I am sure I can be rid of with weight loss. My DH is also on the program with me but does not attend the meetings.I am going to be more active in posting and visit BCB frequently because I find it inspiring.

[redhotmama]

Bumping up for Soni and any other newbies!

[redhotmama]

BUMP

[Greenbrier]

bump for Pat

[Fluffy101]

Well, here goes.
My name is Fluffy, and I live in Hubbard Ohio which is 4 miles from Sharon Pa. I'm 55 years young, married the last time in 1984 to a wonderful man. I have 3 daughters, one stepdaughter, 2 stepsons, and 8 collective grandchildren. I have a darling Jack Russell Terrier named Killer. I think he is the spawn of Satan :D . I'm an RN. I am an emotional eater. I remember at age 4 or 5 stepping on the bathroom scale and worrying. All my life I've had a weight problem and I believe I hold the Guiness Book of World Records for trying every diet scheme out there. Thank God for BCB and WW! I can now walk and fit in a restaurant booth.
Fluffy

[MizzH]

Hello Everyone... just found this so here I go.
My name is Lanelle and I'm 49 years, 11 months and 15 days old today. (Can you see where this is heading?) Anywho... I am a native Floridian, born in North Florida and living in Orlando for the past 18 years. I work in the hospitality industry with our local Convention & Visitors Bureau as a Sales Manager in charge of a large portion of the Midwest. My job is to find the people in associations and corporations who plan meetings and convince them that there is no where else on the planet but Orlando for their meetings! (Not always as easy as it sounds!)
I've been married for 2.5 years to John... he's a sheriff... and a wonderful, wonderful mate. I don't have any children of my own, but have two great step kids, a cool son in law and an awesome new grandaughter. I also have a dog who is my surrogate daughter. Ginnie. We're so much alike, it's scary. I like to think she has my good looks, but her dad's breath! :D
I had joined weight watchers in December of 2001 and actually did a very good job of loosing 17lbs. Then we got very involved with the renovation of our home, and I allowed that to be an excuse to kick me off the wagon. In all honesty, I have to admit I got lazy and wasn't really very committed. I came back to it because I'm beginning to realize how important my health is. I have always had the good fortune of being in excellent health, and I don't want to jeopardize that as I get older. Fortunately over the past 9 months, I've only gained back to the point where I was originally in 2001. My committment this time is complete and sliding off is not an option! :mad:
I'm delighted to be a part of this particular site as the support here seems to be very real. And I believe we have special issues as we face our 50's and beyond. It's very hard to convince some people (translates to "men") that menopause is real and that it makes your body do some really wierd things. And the resulting ripple effect is very unpredictable!
I'm looking forward to success this time, and Diana, I'm happy to see that you're a mentor. Don't be surprised if I call on you for support in the future! :cool:

[JACOB'S NANA]

Hello there MizzH.....just now saw your bio and I don't believe that I have officially welcomed you to our group....glad you joined us...start posting and get to know the best group of F&S(fit and sexy, that is)around.....so http://www.gifs.cc/aniwelcome4a.gif

[redhotmama]

BUMPING UP FOR THE NEWBIES!

[ShrinkingMo,]

Bumping up for Myra and any other newbies.

[myrap]

Hello everyone graemlins/wave.gif

My name is Myra and I am 58 years young. Married to one of the most wonderful men in the world for 40 years. God has blessed us with two children and two grandchildren. Our daughter lives next door to us and our son lives in Memphis, TN which is about 70 miles away. The grandchildren belong to our daughter so we get to be with them often. We have a Chesapeake Bay Retriever that thinks she is human, and the apple of our eye. We live on a rice farm in Northeast Arkansas. The big middle of the Delta, (hot and humid in the summer).

My DH and I are both in education. He is the director of an education cooperative (serves 27 school district) and I am and Administrative Assistant for Special Education. This is year 29 for me and 46 for him. We are starting to think about retirement.

I first jouned WW in the early 70's and was doing really well when I was diagnoised with a brain tumor. By the time I was able to go back, weight was the least of my worries. I have re-joined several times, but have never reached goal for one reason or another. graemlins/sobbing.gif

I rejoined on January 15, 2003. I am going to a Community Meeting that meets at school in the town I live in. One of my best friends is going with me and we talk every night to give each other that little boost we all need. Loosing real slow, but it beats gaining.

I have been a Type II diabetic since 1996. Love crafts, needle work and working in the yard. Like to read, but, don't get much done. I usually end up listening to books on tape as I walk on the treadmill, makes the time go by faster and I am acomplishing 2 things at once. graemlins/crazy.gif

[Tony Florida]

Hi all, graemlins/wave.gif

I'm Tony, down in Naples, Florida, a bit of Paradise on the sun-kissed shore of the Gulf of Mexico. smile.gif

Last December I turned 60, which is a miracle in itself! I am married to DW Ms Amy, and we have two wonderful daughters, one married in California, and the other to be married later this year, over on the Florida east coast.

Actually, Ms Amy and I are re-married. We 'took a break' at 25-1/2 years, back in 1992. It seemed to help us both learn a good deal, but ultimately we moved in together again in '98. We re-married (officially) on the day after Christmas of '99.

I have been living in Naples for a little over 8 years, and my profession is music. I am a pianist and singer at a wonderful 5-star hotel, in their main dining room, for about the last two years. I've spent over 40 years in the music business; between secular and church music, theater and recording session work, songwriting, choral direction, restaurants, hotels and night clubs, there really isn't much in music I haven't done! The neat thing is I still enjoy playing after all these years.

Ms Amy is an assistant manager for a local gourmet grocery store in town, part of a small chain of stores out of North Carolina. They have the best stuff -- risky for a guy who likes to cook as much as I do! -- and we *do* get a lot of our food from there, which is delightful.

My diet history isn't very remarkable. I was the fat kid, the one who caught all the slaps, miserably unpopular as a kid, seething with rage inside both at myself and the outside world. I was on every "diet" craze that hit the scene from the early 60's until the late 80's. In '87 I had a gastroplasty -- without a doubt one of the most incredibly stupid mistakes I've ever made! I nearly died from the surgery, and skipping the details it was a real horror show!

I've weighed as much as 370, but in the last several years I have been under 300 (barely) most of the time. My weight has been a contributing factor to most of the other medical difficulties I've had, over the years.

I had low back surgery last July, and from the first of August through the beginning of October I went from 278 to 259, more or less without trying. For some mysterious reason, I decided to keep the momentum going, and signed up for WWAH. I've had several gains in the months I've been doing this -- I still need my butt kicked about some things, I'm afraid. But all in all, it's been a WONderful journey, and something I'm enjoying more and more as time goes on.

I was in about two weeks when Ms Amy decided to join me. She has much less to lose than I, but we have been doing this 'in tandem' since late October, and having a lot of fun with it, too. To date, we've lost over 50 lb between us. :D

I do not claim anything like perfect adherence. I have been journaling religiously, no matter what. Most days I have no trouble getting lots of water. I still struggle with staying in range, not all the time, but enough to make it troublesome. I'd love to say I've never "deliberately" gone over points, but it would really be a lie.

I believe 110% in the BCB way of approaching this. If you've seen my posts to others, you know I don't have a hard time expressing my opinions. :rolleyes: By the same token, I am in this for the long haul. I'm a firm believer in the "life change" idea; I do not "diet." Period.

I look forward to being here until the lights go out. I truly believe this is the absolute best way to approach a weight problem. Even though I am still learning, I have every expectation of getting better at it, and ultimately winning the war against my fat. And I *do* mean permanently! smile.gif

Thanks so much to all of you, for keeping the lights on until I was able to summon the honesty I needed to get here. I am so grateful to Denise and the early members, and to everyone who contributes day by day on the boards. You're a bunch of lifesavers to me! graemlins/bcbsalute.gif :D graemlins/bcbsalute.gif

Warmest regards,
Tony Florida

[redhotmama]

Bumping up for some newbies!

[jefrado22]

Bumping up for Nix and Tony and Country Lady and Emmy and Beea and Blation and - did I miss anyone???? I've been kind of "out of it" for awhile...

BUT I'm NOT PREGNANT!!!! Yeah!!! graemlins/crazy.gif graemlins/crazy.gif

[Blation]

Thank You, Susan, for bumping this up so I caught this thread!! I have been reading all your Bio's and they make me glad I'm here!! A nicer group would be hard to find on the Internet!!

I am in my mid 60's, struggle a bit with Rheumatoid Arthritis (which began when I was in my late 30's) and have recently retired from a great job in recruitment for a personnel firm.

I live in Western New York, have 3 wonderful kids,5 Grand kids, and my only Daughter is expecting her first baby in October.

The first thing I did when I retired was to adopt a rescued Golden Retriever.....Tiger is 6 0r 7, had been cruelly mistreated :( . He was found wandering in the country with no ID, very skinny and afraid.......With alot of hard work on both our parts, he is now a happy, friendly,confident boy, who goes everywhere I go !! (Including my bed!! graemlins/sleep.gif )

All my life I was skinny, but, like many of you the weight snuck up on me !! Excersize is a challenge as many of the joints in my feet and ankles are damaged..(Just got out of a boot cast after 3 weeks).....

I joined WW on 2/03/03 at 192, dropped to 183, and last WI I was up 2 pounds :(
Other than a very brief Pity-party (1 day) I decided that I needed to re-group, drink more water, measure EVERYTHING, and excersize every day, even if it's standing in front of the TV moving to a Richard Simmons tape!!

I am determined to make it happen, with 5 pounds/month as my goal, till I reach at least 160. Being here is going to be a huge help....I know that already smile.gif Than You all for your support, and Emmy and others, lets hear from you!!

(Sorry to be so long winded !! :eek: )

[jefrado22]

Bumping ttt (to the top) for Ris...

[Ris]

Hi To All of you
I joined BCB in Fed of 2003. It was one of the best decisions of my life. I was married for 25 years to my first husband and we had five loving children, 4 girls and one boy. They are all married and live out of province so i don't get to see them very often. between them i have 8 grandchildren.
I remarried a man with 4 children, two of which are now deceased. I loved them all as much as my own. Our two combined families, produced 17 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren, so it is pretty interesting at Christmas and Birthdays.
We are both retired, i will soon be 60. We live on Vancouver Island In British Columbia. Just love to come to the computer every morning and find out whats new for the day.I have been on many diets before but did it on my own,It is much easier this time because of the help and support from all of you. Thanks Ris graemlins/wave.gif

[redhotmama]

Welcome Ris!

If you live on Vancouver Island, then we must be almost neighbours! How cool is that! Where do you live? I am on Denman Island and have been here for 20 years - DH is our local Postmaster. Hope you find this group as helpful as I do - in fact, I don't think I would have made it to where I am were it not for this site! Hope to get to know you better. graemlins/wave.gif

Diana graemlins/bcbsalute.gif

[barnesy]

Hi Everyone,
I joined WW a year ago in January and joined this boot camp the following month. For a variety of reasons I "fell off the wagon" during the summer and basically did the same thing with the computer. But I am back on program, counting points on my own, and back in tune with the BCBers. This is really a great website! The support received here is tremendous. Thanks to all of you who put this together and continue to support it.
My name is Lynda and I live in Chillicothe, Ohio with my husband, three children and two cats. I have been an elementary teacher for 29 years and I plan to retire next year. My children are ages 25, 22, and 17...girl, boy, girl. My youngest graduates from high school this year. My dear kitties are Chloe and Sampson.
Since getting back on program I have lost 6 pounds. My goal weight is 145...I have 20 more pounds to lose. I am confident that I will meet my goal because of my determination and the support given from all of you. Again...thanks graemlins/wave.gif

[cjarnc]

Hi, I'm 60 heading for 61 next month and have no idea how I ever got to be this age! I'm an RN and have been working in a Perinatal unit for 23 years now. Guess i like my job smile.gif

[cjarnc]

OOPS! A good thing I like being a nurse because you see how I am with computers!
I have a wonderful husband (just had our 40th anniversary last month), 2 daughters 38 and 35 and no grandchildren. We do have 6 grandcats, a granddog and a grandhorse! We have two spoiled Labs named Molly and Jack, and 4 cats..2 Abyssinians named Tribbie and Snickers, a grey tabby rescue named Nomi, and a Ragdoll rescue named Rue.
My husband retired from one job and opened his own business the following week. His first job was operating a police helicopter program and his now job is selling helicopters.
I joined WW 1-22-03 and I love it! I, too, was a skinny kid who hit middle age and started waking up each morning a pound heavier! It seemed like that, at least! This year I decided to do something about it and when a dear long time friend joined, I joined too.
We live in the San Gabriel Valley in Southern California.
I'm really enjoying reading all the posts from the BCB group. Hope I will be of some support and will in turn be motivated to get moving and drink my water! graemlins/crazy.gif Carol

[iwilldoit]

Hi everybuddie!!

My name is Sheila I am from Kansas City, MO. I am recently married (for the second and the last time) 2 1/2 years ago to a wonderful man with 3 sons, ages 30, 24, and 12 (had to explain to him what causes that) ;) I also got 3 lovely step granddaughters in the deal, 4, 5 and 11. I was married for 20 years and had no children so I got a big family now.

I started WW 12/00 and I lost 65 lbs and then gained it back because I went AWOL from BCB...I rejoined WW 2/12/03 and have 74.2 lbs to lose.

I working for a big Heating and A/C Distributor doing the Marketing for them. I love my job and have been here for 13 years.

I am so happy to be back on WW and back at BCB with my buddies.

[pikamom]

Not a newbie--just didn't read the whole 2003 bio thread until today.

I am Cinde and I live in LA(lower Alabama). I joined WW in December of 2001 and found this wonderful support group in February of 2002. It is the first place I come when I get on the computer. My little hubby and I have been married for 25 years now and we have 3 wonderful sons. Tony (21) is a butcher, Matt (20) is a junior at a Jesuit college here in Mobile, and Chris (17) is a junior in high school. We have way too many pets (poodle, cat, 2 cockatiels, white mouse and a ton of fish) and it is always a zoo over here. I work at a Catholic elementary school as as assistant to the teacher for Learning Disabilities. We are perfect together--she can't spell and I stink at math. I love to sew and am always doing household projects (ripping up carpet right now). I love how WW has changed my life. I am diabetic and have been able to drop 2 of the medicines for that since I have lost 35#. It is slow going with the losing right now, but I am not going to give up. Thanks for posting all the bios I enjoyed reading them all today. Love, Cinde graemlins/wave.gif

[Ris]

Hi Diana, just to answer your question , we live in Port Alberni. We moved here almost 14 years ago. I love this site, and the more i read the more i like the people on here. I would love to write to all sorts of people, because i love to be at the Computer. Everyone keep up the good work, and we will all be around and be BCB for a long time. Diana feel free to send me a private message if you get time Thanks.
Ris graemlins/wave.gif
To err is human to forgive divine.

[jefrado22]

bumping up for deertoo... graemlins/bcbsalute.gif

[deertoo]

Hi, everyone. I am 52 yrs old and started WW 2/11/02. I did really well for about 6 weeks, then fiddles around losing very slowly-then really fiddled around and maintained for 6 months. I am back OP again and have lost 12 lbs since 1/15. I have lost a total of 36 lbs.

I am married to the man of my dreams for the last 3 yrs. He had never been married and I was single for 18 yrs. We had dated for 3 yrs before we married. I moved in with him, giving up my 3 bedroom 1500 sq. foot home for his one bedroom apartment. He owns his home, there is an apt upstairs. We had planned on only living here for a yr or 2 before we built a new home, but with the downturn in the stock market-those 2 yrs will most likely turn into a lot more. We have done what we can to make it comnfortable. It is an old Victorian home so has beautiful floors and woodwork.

I have 2 adult children-my DD is 30 and my DS is 25. They live together, along with my DD husband who is a para-legal. DD has a bead business she operates out of their home. She makes different custom designed articles from pens to jewelry, shirts, purses, etc. If any one is interested in her web site-email, and I will be glad to send it to you. DS doesn't work at this time, he has been dealing with depression and an anxiety disorder, we are trying to get him disability to he can get medical help and get better.

DH is a free lance writer and photgrather, and I am an RN. I am the Student Health director at an all boys Catholic boarding school. It is a wonderful job and I am very proud and lucky to have it.

I love to read, usually mysteries and biographies. I also write, I had an article printed in last June's issue of Nursing 2002. We have a tortoiseshell cat-Miss Kellen brave woman in Gaelic) and a miniture American Eskimo, Casey Jones. He is my personal trainer because he gets me out walking twice a day, whether I want to or not, regardless of the weather.

graemlins/bcbsalute.gif

[ChoosyIady]

Hi, my name is Mary. I am not new, but just haven't been on much since the Holidays. My DH and I joined WW on April 10, 2002. I found BCB that same month, and have been moslty hanging around. I am 52 yrs. old, but getting younger every day. I have been married to my DH since 1995, we were both widowed in the early 90's. We raised 3 children together that are now 19, 24 and 25. DH has 2 older children that were older when we married. I live in Norther Indiana, our house is on a river that for the first time in a long time isn't frozen! I have been a stay at home mom/wife most of my adult life. During the early ninety's I had lots of medical problems and lots of stress. My weight just started going up and didn't stop till I was almost 300 pounds and decided that I had to take care of myself. I have lost 60 pds in the last year, and still going strong. My DH is going to retire this summer, and since we have an empty nest now, we are going to hit the road in our RV this coming fall. We would like to find someplace warmer for our home. Maybe Fla.? By next year our home will be for sale, and we will be somewhere else. Hopefully our children will come often to visit! I don't always post a lot, but find my way to this site most every day, it gives me encouragment, some laughter and lots of good advice and recipes!

[CathyJ]

Bumping up for Jean . . .

[patinoh]

Hello...I come here to read the posts...so decided to say Hi & meet you all.I surf a lot & don't really have a home board.
Name is Pat,age 62 & married all my life:)Have 2 grown,married DDs.One lives an hr away & the other in Fl.Also have 3 grkids.1 girl,2 boys.Was a stay at home Mom.Did train in medical records....but the hospitals went to computers & at that time, I'd never seen a computer!

I make quilt tops & miniature quilts.Also read a lot & spend too much time on line.Have done most needlework & crafts...at one time or another.We have an RV & spend winters in warmer climate.

Was in my 40's when the pounds started piling on.Have been on half a graemlins/sobbing.gif diets...but WW is my only real attempt at losing weight.Doing my best to live/eat healthy & let weight loss be a by product.Trying to make changes I can live with...for the rest of my life.Still have a few things to work on,but slowly,it's coming together. :D

[jeanbr]

Here goes, it's been a while since I did this smile.gif

I'm Jean, 50 years old and live just outside Manchester, England with my hubby of 26 years and my son Stu. I joined WW in July 1998, reaching my WW in October 1998. I reached my personal goal a couple of months after than and, with the help of BCB, successfully maintained it up to 2001. At around this time my husband became ill and his business started to run into problems which put a huge strain on our relationship. I was trying to hold down my own full time job as a Purchasing Manager, run the business and look after my DH. I also work with my DH every Saturday and half a day Sunday morning. To be perfectly honest my weight issues took a back seat and it is only now that things seem to be on a more even keel that I feel ready to shed the weight that has gradually crept back on me again. In hindsight (which is always a wonderful thing isn't it??) neglecting myself was probably the worst thing I could have done, but do it I did and now I'm facing the consequences. As of yesterday when you made me so very welcome,I promise to abide by the BCB philosophy. I've started re-journalling and drinking my water. Exercise, well that's a little more difficult for me as I hate it with a passion. I have attended a weekly keep fit class at my church hall for more years than I care to remember but in all honesty I can't see myself ever doing more than that, unless I manage to get out in my lunch hours once or twice a week for a walk. We have a walking club at work but twice a week I have to go to see my husband at work and the other days I visit my elderly parents. Also, at the moment I'm prevented (as is my company) from walking because of racial tensions in the area I work. The police ahve recommended we stop this until the current war situation is resolved.

Whatever spare time I get, I like to spend reading, watching tv, going to the cinema or following my rugby team.

I hope to spend some free time reading all your bio's and getting to know you all

[patathome]

Hi there...I'm new to this site so decided to post here first. I'm Pat & I'll be 56 in June. Been married to the same guy for nearly 37 yrs. Have 2 DDs & 1 DS. Girls are 35(36 in June) & 34. Both are married. Oldest has 1 son age 13 and she is a hairdresser. Younger one has 4 sons almost 10, almost 8, 6 & almost 4. She homeschools the 3 older ones. DS is 16 and a junior in HS. His heart's desire is to be a Navy fighter pilot. DH is a maintenance mechanic at a local chemical plant & I work part-time for my younger SIL. He has his own construction business & I man the office from 10-3. We're very active in our church and trying to keep up with all the family. We also have a Pom named Missy who's 6 and spoiled of course.

Actually my younger DD joined WW & then asked me to go with her. I was at my highest wt ever. I had no idea I'd succeed but went to please her. The rest is history. Am hoping to fit in here & make new friends. smile.gif graemlins/wave.gif

Don't know what happened to my signature line.
Pat

[redhotmama]

Bumping up to keep it visible! ;)

[ShrinkingMo,]

Bumping up for Betty, Ris & Teri and anyone else who maybe a newbie.

[w8ing2b]

Keep the bios coming all you newbies :D

[imported_Losing up North]

Hi:

My name is Nancy and I am almost 55 years old. I live in a in southern Ontario and work in Management for a small company who make engineered products for seismic and defence industry.

I have been married for almost 35 years and we have two DD's. Our eldest daughter lives less than an hour away with her husband and the joy of our lives, Cooper our one and only grandchild. He is just over one year old and we are having a wonderful time being grandparents. They are expecting again in October so things are going to get busier. Due to the outbreak of SARS the hospitals up here are restricting tests, etc. and we are waiting for her to be able to have an ultrasound because there is a "possibility" that she may be having twins. Even though she isn't quite three months pregnant yet and has gained very little weight, she certainly looks bigger than she might expect. Our younger DD lives in Montreal with her significant other. She tells me that if she calls and says she is getting married, I'd better get in the car and start driving or I'll miss it. Big weddings aren't her thing and unless they decide to have children, I expect they'll stay just as they are. My times have changed in 35 years !!

I have fought the weight battle for my entire adult life. After the birth of my younger DD, I managed to get back down to my pre pregnancy weight, but every year for the last 30, I seemed to have put on a few pounds and the total added up.

In December of 1992 I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer and underwent first the surgery, then five weeks of radiation and six months of chemotherapy. One of the things that I thought would happen with the diagnosis was that I would lose weight. Wrong. I actually put on 25 lbs in the six months of drug therapy. I have a CLEAN bill of health now and do not take any drugs (like Tamoxifin, or any of that) so I can't even blame that for my gain.

I have also tried every diet known to man and must have lost at least 200 lbs over my lifetime. (Lose ten, put on twenty, lose twenty, put on twenty-five - like that).

This time it is going very slowly, but I am determined to get down to my goal!

I have just recently found this site and am hoping to make it work for me. I see lots of inspiring things here and I very much need the support.

Thanks for listening.

Nancy

[redhotmama]

bump

[redhotmama]

BUMPING UP!

[luvsrabbits]

Hi Sisters. My name is Terrie and I am from Iowa. No I don't live on a farm. I lived in Michigan for a while and everyone thought all us Iowans were farmers.lol I am 50, soon to be 51 and the rest of my life is going to be the best of my life. I love this stage. I am an empty nester and my DH and I really love being together. He is my best friend, and biggest supporter. I have been a WW for 20 years and a BCB'er for just a year. I have two sons, one who lives in Pennsylvania, and the other one here in town. I don't have any grandbabies yet, but do have two dogs. One is a Bichon, who is allergic to everything imaginable, every tree, bush, blade of grass in my yard as well as nearly every food with the exception of fish and potatoes. Needless to say she keeps me paying the wages of the vet here. She also has cataracts due to the medicine for her allergies and is nearly blind. She gets around quite well considering. My other dog is her daughter,( papa the mut next door), and she has not inherited her mama'a medical problems, thank goodness. They keep me in warm kisses and soft nuzzels for sure. I am a born-again Christian and get my strength for the day from the power of Christ in my life. I love to garden, and that takes me away from my computer much of the summer. My DH and I contract to do all the landscaping in our trailer court so we are very busy. I am also a leader in several Weight Watchers meetings so my days get pretty full. I used to find time to stamp and paint but not much lately. I am not much of a creature of habit. I embrace change and love to learn new things. Health isn't bad with the exception of some arthritis in my hands and a bum knee. I am still waitng for the big M. I have had a hysterectomy, but still have my ovaries so I am thinking I will get visited soon by those symptoms. Trying to beat it to the punch with good health and proper diet. My husband had prostate cancer 8 years ago and is considered cured. He is ten years older than I am but looks like he is my age. Never had a weight problem. I guess that is about all the interesting facts about me. I am going to print this thread to read on our way out of town today. Wish I had more time to come in here and read and post. Life is certainly unscripted isn't it?

[luv2sew]

luv2sew

Sergeant

Member # 17084

posted January 01, 2003 01:58 PM
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I turned 55 in May. I was married to my first husband for 15 years and have three adorable children. Gina is 34 married and two adorable step grand daughters. Mike is 30 married and one adorable grand daughter. Ginger is 27 married and 1 adorable grand daughter and my pride and joy my only grandson. I work as a computer drafter. Have been drafting for 30 years but on the computer abut 1 1/2 years. Married to my second DH for almost 22 years now. We have an adopted son who is almost 16. During our marriage we have also raised 27 foster children 3 of which we graduated from high school and then married off. I live just outside of Nashville, Tennessee. I love to do anything with my hands. I love to sew, knit, crochet, cross stitch,scrapbook and play on my computer. Unfortunately there are not enough hours in the day. I have 2 dachsaunds Pootie and Kelsie (along haired dachsaund), a mutt named Buddie, two kittens Callie and Domino and I feel like I run the zoo. I cut and pasted this, since I wrote this bio last Mat we lost the long haired dachsaund to LUPUS. they call it mediated immune disease in animals. She was DH's baby. he did not handle it well. My 16 year old son is in state custody through juvenile justice because he just would not listen and do what he was supposed to do. Hopefully he will get to come back home this year. My yougest DD is a gymnastics coach and went to nationals this year and brought back two national champions. Evryone is so proud of her except her boss, so she is in the process of trying to open her own gym. With the start of the new year comes a new commitment to WW and BCB. I cannot post as much as I would like but you will be hearing from me. Clara

Udate: We have a new black and tan longhair dachsaund named peanut. My son is now back home and doing very well. My daughter will have her gym up and running in June hopefully. She was chosen to be the head coach for the Tennessee team at regionals this year. Really a great honor. I still am sitting her with only 12 pounds lost in a whole year, but I will keep plugging.
***************
Nothing can happen today that God and I together cannot handle

20% by June 1
April 7: 206

All things are possible through Christ who gives me my strength

Start Weight: 222
WW Start Weight: 215
Today: 206
Goal: 135
Height 5'-2"

Nothing tastes as good as skinny feels.

Pray for our troops and our president.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Posts: 429 | From: Mt. Juliet, Tennessee | Registered: May 2002 | IP: Logged

[redhotmama]

Bumping up for terrilee!

[terilee2]

Hi, Teri here. I am 52 years old have one son (29), two step daughters one 21 (almost) and one 24, and two step grandsons, 5 and 2. I was married to hubby number one for 23 years and have been married to hubby number two for 7 years. I also have two cats. Have worked in the vehicle business for 25 years now. (23 of that all at the same dealership until it was sold last year).
I have fought my with a weight problem all my life. I was on WW five years ago go discouraged and quit - no support at home. I started WW this time on my own on 12/30/02 and had been doing really well (lost 20 lbs) then two weeks ago a friend at work asked if I'd be interested in going to WW meetings with her. So I decided that maybe with her going and the support of the group I could really do it this time. So here I am.. Going to meetings every Tuesday evening. smile.gif I am glad that I joined. I am VERY THANKFUL that I found this board for additional support as I still don't get support from DH.. :( He still brings home all the no-no's even though he has been asked not to. Anyway, that is a different subject. My interests on playing on the computer even though I am not very good at it. It's enough to get me by. smile.gif I like to read and spend time with my son. (He is the only one who lives local). I knit some when my artheritis (sp) isn't bothering me too much.
It's nice to meet everyone.

Washingtonians don't tan then rust. :D graemlins/wave.gif

[redhotmama]

BUMPING UP FOR IAMALAMA

[CarlaKay]

Bringing this to the top for our new people. graemlins/wave.gif

[redhotmama]

bumping up

[CathyJ]

Bumping up for Marcia and other newbies . . .

[iamalama]

Hi everybuddy, my name is Alma and I live in PEI Canada. I am 62 and have been married for 44 years to DH and we have 4 grown children (the youngest is 33) I have been retired for 2 years and enjoying good health and lots of time to spend on hobbies. Gardening, knitting, crocheting, cooking..........etc. Our first born was killed in a car accident when he was 15 months old. I was a very petite child and had no weight problem till I was 35, which was 5 years after the birth of my fifth child. So I can't blame it on child birth. I had several "successful" weight losses through the years but of course none of them lasted. During the last few years of my employment we formed a weigh in club at work. Not WW but just a friend with a set of scales. Each week the one who lost the most won the fee that was charged. Well, over the five years that we did this, I and most of the others gained 30 pounds. I was dissappointed in myself but just told myself it was OK because my best friend was always 2 or 3 pounds heavier than I was. I finished my employment there due to "downsizing" (such a cruel word) not of my body but of my position. That was in 96, and I weighed 183. Another friend was going to WW and doing well. She gave me a photo copy of a few pages in her book (I think it was called fat & fiber). I carried that book with me for two years before I felt I was ready to use it. I had no support group and had just moved so had no girlfriends locally either, but I was determined. It took me a year and a half to lose 50 pounds and I felt great. I was walking and eating right and felt I would never gain weight again. I loaned my "book" to a friend and much to my dismay I started to put it on again. I didn't have my guide and I couldn't remember all the stuff I was allowed to eat. :confused: This was before the "points". By the time I had gained 25 pounds again I decided this was enough and joined the local WW group.....and the rest is history. Six months later I had lost the 25 I had gained back plus 5 more. This time I have all my information and also I have BCB. Thanks for being there. graemlins/wave.gif

[redhotmama]

TTT

[redhotmama]

BUMP

[redhotmama]

TTT

[ShrinkingMo,]

Bumping up for Patty Anne

[redhotmama]

BUMPING UP FOR BLUEBIRD AND PATTY ANNE AND ANY OTHER NEWBIES!

[goldens4]

Wow, So many people here!

OK, My name is Sue and I am 65. We live in Baltimore Maryland with three Golden Retrievers and a lab. We have three children and four grandkids. Bill and I have been married for 45 years.

I have always had a weight problem starting back grade school. It was thyroid then. It still is but I haven't helped any! I have been on so many diets it isn't funny. Several years ago I was just doing just fine with Atkins. I took weight off and kept most of it off and was very active. We had a bad accident and I just let go.
PTSS led to Paxil which led to more weight and more depression.
This winter was bad with pain from bursitis, weight gain and depression.

I joined WW online, saw a shrink, am taking Zoloft and life is good. :D

Did I give too much info?

[redhotmama]

Bumping up for BabyBoomer and Goldens4!

[redhotmama]

Bump! Found waaay back on pg.8!

[irishskm]

graemlins/wave.gif
My name is Sharon and I am 57 years young. Married to one of the most wonderful men in the world for 4 years. I have three children: two daughters and one son. My son passed away in 1998. I have been blessed with five grandchildren, 3 granddaughters and 2 grandsons… Their ages are 7, 8, 9, 10 & 11…I have a Tzu Shih that thinks she is the ruler of the house, and she probably is. I live in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, which is 50 miles north of Milwaukee on beautiful Lake Michigan. I have a wonderful twin sister, Shirly, who I try to see as often as possible.

My career has been in the Social Services field. I worked at the local and state level in administration of public assistance programs. I had surgery for a brain tumor in 2000 and discovered how valuable each day is and I was spending entirely too much time "on the job"… I retired in 2001 after 34 years in this field and enjoy volunteering at church and the local hospital.

I first joined WW in the early 80's and reached goal weight at that time… However, I "thought" I could maintain on my own--which was a mistake. I most recently returned to WW in January 2003, and this time when I reach goal again, I WILL continue attending meetings after I reach my goal. I am losing weight very slowly right now, but it is going the right way!!

I am an avid golfer and belong to two leagues. Weather permitting ( I live in Wisconsin) I golf daily. In addition to that, I enjoy crocheting and reading.

I am so happy that I found BCB. This has really helped me meet my weight loss goals. I know, from previous experience, that I need to maintain regular contact with BCB and the WW program in order to maintain my weight loss.

Looking forward to meeting other BCB buddies..
Sharon

[Luanne]

Bumping up for njoy. :D

[dwmw613]

Thanks for the bump :D
I am a newbie June 2003 I found this website and I have been so motivated to finally do SOMETHING.

I will be 50 in May 2004, and found this bcb group last week.

I have been married for 6 years to the best man in the world. (took me 5 times but I got there
I have been selling heavy duty truck parts since 1983. Industry did not recognize "women" in this field so it has been a struggle, but I feel good knowing I helped open doors for other women that are selling any kind of truck or automotive parts.

I do not have any children. Never was blessed :(
I love children and hate I missed out on that part of nature. But, I do have my own "babies"
A pomeranian (Abby aka Peanut) she is 7 years old
A mix chow and lab (Oscar aka Oscar Myer Weiner)13 years old (BIG BABY) and my cat of 17 years Christal aka Chrissy Chris. All are spoiled rotten.
My BH is in construction. (building houses) so needless to say ours is put on the back burner when things need done.
I love the outdoors. we have a pool (above ground nothing fancy) and BH has built a deck around it that steps down into a big deck. I love sitting out there in the evenings and listen to the pond trinkle.(BH just put that in for me this year after begging for 3) :D

I have not had a weight problem until I quit smoking either 5 or 6 years ago. When I married my BH I weighed 135. Now I am 30 lbs more. So I feel bad because I gained this after I got married and feel BH got the short end of the stick. graemlins/sobbing.gif
I have tried all the diet pill you can name and never did lose :confused: Then I did the Atkins diet only lost 15 lbs. but gained all of it back plus 5.
My BH told me a few months ago to look into WW. He works with 2 women that have been doing it and could really see results. I at first was hurt because I felt he really did think I was over weight, but then he told me "Honey, I know how your weight is making you unhappy is the only reason I told you about WW" odear.gif and then 2 weeks later a girl I play Bunko with admitted she had been doing WW and lost 40 lbs. (which was obvious)
So I said "Self" get off your butt and find out about WW. Well, my friend told me about this website and the rest is history.
I found you and now I plan to be around for my lifetime.
I do not know the computer very well, and do not know anything about WW, but just reading comments and recipes I think I am ready to give it a shot.
Looking forward to getting to knowing all of you better.
Mari

[njoy4ever]

Hi Everyone. graemlins/wave.gif Isn't it great that we can get to know each other this way?? First of all, my real name is Starr, but I chose njoy for this board because I am working on my focus. Yes, I want to lose weight, and I've done it many times, but this is my question to myself this time: How can I get this weight off once and for all and NJOY the process?? Food is glorious and healthy - this can be fun and NJOYable, right? I well know my old patterns now and feel ready to make some real lifestyle changes. I love your philosophy here! tongue.gif

OK. I am 51 and live in the Cincinnati/Dayton Ohio area. I am single although I was married for 23 years. HE ran off with a barmaid 9 years ago, which turned out to be a favor to me, although I didn't think so at the time! I have no regets though - I have a great family. Twins Bill and Brad just turned 30 and Brad just married Nicole in April. My daughter Ellyn is 27 and has AJ (4), Josey (3) and Colin (1). Good thing I am crazy about them - Ellyn is getting a divorce and lives with me now!! We have a lively household, that's for sure. Also, Bill just moved back from CA and is staying here while he looks for a job. It is a small house, but full of laughter!

I have the typical diet history - up and down, mostly up. A few years ago I made a concerted effort, lost 70 pounds and got into walking marathons. I thought I had it licked! But I began to have serious knee problems and one thing led to another and I became unable to walk and gained back the weight!! Last February I got both knees totally replaced and now I am able to walk again and ready to start over. The new knees slow me down some, but they work real well for the most part. It turned out my leg bones had never aligned properly as a child and over time the joints just wore completely away! Who knew?? graemlins/ugh.gif

Anyway, I work in the Quality Dept at the local steel mill - which is the real job I got after my divorce. On my own time I am an artist (worked professionally for many years) but now am concentrating on making jewellry. A friend and I have a small business and we sell our jewellry at home parties. I am not back to gardening like I was due to the knees, but it is a favorite thing. Right now I am swimming on my lunch hour and just loving it. The pool will close too soon for me!

I think that is the overview, so I look forward to being in your camp! :cool:

Hugs

[Seasoned Woman]

My given name is Mary Lou and I'm a newbie checking in from Lincoln, Nebraska. Turned 62 this month according to the calendars, but there really must be some mistake. I don't think like I think a 62-year-old would think (however that is)and I probably wouldn't even consider myself this age if I didn't have one son who is 39. The other two are 36 and 34. All three live in our fair city with their wives (2) and fiancee (1) and a total of eight young'ns, ages 13 to three. I'm self employed, hubby is a fire fighter and we've been married 41 years. My interests include arts and crafts, long-letter writing, genealogy, fishing, playing pitch, dominoes and Scrabble, love to read and have more interests than I have time or money. As far as reading material, I love magazines (you don't want to know how many I subscribe to), and my favorite kinds of books are crime and courtroom (I used to be a legal secretary) and motivational and inspirational). I realize those two types of reading material aren't particularly compatible. I belong to one book club which meets once a month and we read a variety of books. I'm president of a local AARP chapter this year (probably the only member not really retired too), am Founding Queen Mum of a local Red Hat Society chapter and also belong to Beta Sigma Phi. Enjoy informal entertaining. I'm a very positive, upbeat person and enjoy networking with others. I rejoined WW on June 20 (last month) after a very long absence from WW. Actually, I only joined this time because a Corporate meeting was being organized in the building where I lease my office space and I thought it would be handy. As it turned out, we came up short one person of having enough to have a Corporate group, so we merged with another group at a bank about 10 blocks away and we meet there. It's not as convenient, but I'm still glad I rejoined. The first time I belonged was in the early 70s, when we used to do crazy things (like use bread crumbs for flour, HAD to have liver once a week, made our own catsup, and I could go on and on). The program worked though and I still find I have some of those old habits. I've lost 14.8 lb. since joining on June 20, but I have a good way to go to goal. I do really like this current program, in fact, much more than I thought I would. I love to write (or can you tell), so sometimes I forget to shut up--which I'm going to do right now. I'm really looking forward to getting to know you all better.

[Hildegard]

Hello Everyone:

Well, here goes my story so you all can get to know me a bit better.
My name is Hildegard (Hilde for short)
I am 58 years young. I have two children all grown up and married and have 7 grandchildren.
I have raised my children alone .
I have been sick most of my life. But we made it.
Have been now with a wonderful man Lee for 25 years.
He has three children and 3 grandchildren so we are one big happy family.
I love to knit and crochet and quilt also loved to read.
I joined WW on and off for a number of years and have lost 45 lbs.
I used to weigh 220 and then went down to 142 lbs.
then when my father died I gained back to 197 and now I weigh 176lbs.
I am trying to get to goal but am a slow looser.
It takes lots of patience.
I am so happy I have found this board everyone seems so nice here.
I live in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Exercise is hard for me. I have Peripheral Vascular disease and take coumadin (blood thinners) Had open ulcers on both ankles due to bad veins. So you see I have been dealing with this stuff since I was just 26 years old.
So now there are a few other problems , but I still have to count my blessings.
Hope I have told you a little about myself.
Hildegard

[imported_nanna]

Hi all, graemlins/wave.gif
I am new to the board - just found it a couple of weeks ago - already I depend on the inspiration I receive while reading the posts!!
My name is Deana - I am 54, married to a wonderful man for 37 years. I am a nurse & hubby is retired. We have a son who is an Educator & a daughter who is an RN. We have been blessed with a 4 yr old grandson & 9 wk old grand daughter. Along with this lovely family we have two chihuahuas - ages 12 & 13. I love to sew, read & cook -- a major problem before I found fat & sugar free recipies.
I found ww in 1985 & became a lifetime member on 8-2-85, since then I have lost & gained more than three people....I am determined to loose this wt & keep it off this time.
God is good to us & we need to thank him daily for his love & kindness. 4 wks ago my precious nephew died from drug abuse, he was 19 & I do not know how our family would have made it without God's love. We all knew something was wrong with him, just never thought about drugs he was so bright & loving. Sorry about the downer - just something I had to add.
Dena

[Looking4ONEderland]

Hi! My name is Judy and I am an overeater -- but I have been OP since 1-25-02 and have lost about 47 pounds!!

I am 56 and have been married for almost 34 years to my DH, Rick. We have lived in the Hampton Roads Virginia area all but 6 months of those 34 years.

We have one child, daughter Jennifer, who lives in Smyrna, Georgia (just outside of Atlanta) with her husband of 10 years. He is an attorney and she teaches piano. She is also a “real animal lover” and works as Office Manager in an animal hospital.

We also have a 2 year old Yorkie name Teddy who weighs 7-1/2 pounds. The vet says he must lose weight -- his "fighting" weight is 7 pounds. So, we have changed to “lite” dog food and treats. He is coming along, but, as with all weight loss, it is slow! Teddy is also very anti-social. He seems to hate everyone except me and DH!

I have 3 hobbies: Collecting Grace Livingston Hill books, collecting Coach purses, and, of course, the online boards!!!!!!!!!!! I spend time on EBay, Christian Weight Winners (www.christianweightwinners.com), Weight Watchers Nifty 50 board (www.weightwatchers.com), and Boot Camp Buddies. I also play the piano -- but have not spent much times on the piano lately.

I took early retirement from Federal civil service in April of 2001. My DH retired from the U.S. Navy (1976) and then from Federal civil service (1996) -- I took retirement early to spend time with him. I really missed my job the first year of retirement. I am coming along -- adjusting to retirement slowly but surely.

Whew! Might be much more than you wanted to know -- but that is me!!

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[CathyJ]

bump

[Mary W.]

Hi, I'm a newbie and I just rejoined WW. I have promised myself that I would get involved with this board instead of just lurking. So here I go.

[Mary W.]

Sorry I guess i pressed the wrong button. Anyway, I'm 50 and married to my DH for 31 years. I have 4 children. DS-30, DD-27 and 25 year old twin DD's. I have been blessed that they have all choose to settle in town here. (South Bend, IN) I have 4 wonderful grandchildren. Connor 6, John 22mos., Jacob 18 mos. and Kayla 4 mos. We have another on the way in Nov. As you might guess I am a proud Grandma. I watch all the kids twice a week so their Mom's can work. It gets a little crazy but I love it. It reminds me of my early years of marriage. I work part time as an LPN on an Alzheimers wing. This too is interesting.
I recently rejoined WW. I have lost weight several times but have had a hard time sticking it out for more than 6-8 months. This time graemlins/wave.gif I am doing it. I have lost 15 lbs. in my first two weeks. It amazing and I know it won't always be so quick. I usually lose fast for the first 3-4 weeks, excess fluid I'm guessing.
I'm looking forward to getting to know all of you and getting support when I need it. I have 100+ lbs. to go so I'll be around a while.

[w8ing2b]

bumping up for newbies graemlins/bcbsalute.gif

[JalepenoAnn]

Hi there. My name is Ann and I live in the city of Surrey, British Columbia. It's a city about 20 miles east of Vancouver. I grew up in the San Francisco bay area, but moved to BC with my family when I was 16 years old. I just turned 50 this past July.

I've worked for the last 19 years in a poultry processing plant. It's not a wonderful job, but it pays the bills and has good benefits.

When I was in my early 40s, I was diagnosed as clinically depressed. After several years of various medications, I've finally got it under control. It also forced me to take a look at my life and make some huge changes. I was able to summon the courage to leave an abusive marriage of 23 years. It was probably one of the scariest things I've ever done, next to bungee jumping. I've been medication free for 4 years now and life is good. A little over 2 years ago, I met Charlie, the love of my life. I'd never believed in the term "soul mates", but now I understand what it's all about. I waited 48 years to find out how good it could be between 2 people and it was definitely worth the wait. We have a 15 year old Nova Scotia duck tolling retriever (the Weasel), a Maine Coon cat (Sportz) and a smart mouthed African grey parrot (Chester).

I've been an avid long distance runner since my early 30s. For years, the running helped keep the depression under control. I've managed to run 16 marathons and have recently gotten into the ultra distance trail running. I've done 3 50Km. trail races in the mountains and will be doing my 4th one on Sept. 20, this year. My best running experience was when after years of trying, I finally qualified for and ran in the Boston marathon. It was an experience I will never forget.

When I'm not running, I also love cooking and baking. I've baked my own bread for years. I also enjoy playing the piano and classical guitar.

I've been up and down with my weight for most of my life. I learned the hard way that I could not eat everything and anything I wanted just because I was a runner. I hit a top weight of 178 pounds and being only 5'2", it was not a good thing. I did WW on my own for quite awhile, and had quite a lot of success, but found it hard to stay in control, and the weight started to come back. I joined a local group in Dec. 2002 and reached my goal Mar. 1st, 2003. I finally achieved lifetime in mid April. The group support and meetings were just what I needed to make it stick.

OK, enough about me. I'm really glad I found the BCBs and look forward to getting to know everybuddy.

Ann

[chari]

I can't find my old bio, so I guess I will try to remember my past.. I am 65 years old, married 48 years and we have one son that is married, no children and is also retired from the USAF.
I worked in Adminstrative Security for 30 years, for a defense contractor. DH was a policeman for 31 1/2 years and then worked in the court system as a court attendent for another 11 years.
We have lived in the same home in Iowa since 1967, but call Orange Beach, AL. our winter home.
I enjoy bicylcing, walking, dancing and some cross stitching, but I have not done much stitching lately. We enjoy traveling, as some our friends have left Iowa to retire in some really interesting places. We have a 11 1/2 year old buff colored poodle,Tiffany, she travels with us most of the time. Oh, I escape into my imagination when stress overcomes me and I write children's stories, it tends to relas me.. No, I do not attempt to have them illustrated or published, just store them away to read when I need a laugh, or two.
Guess that pretty much sizes up our world.
chari

[healthylady]

Bumping up for Gail N

[w8ing2b]

TTT to keep this current graemlins/bcbsalute.gif

[kraftimc]

HI
I'm Eileen, I'm 51, but my husband keeps telling me that we can't be this old so we're thinking of going backwords. I live in upstate Pennsylvania in a little town of 5,ooo. I've been here 5 years, before that in Altoona Pa 50,000 people, before that Columbus Oh a million. so we have had some big lifestyle changes. We have two daughters 32 and 25 ( who ive in